Have you taken a peek at the SEC basketball standings this week?
Being that the conference boasts the top two steam engines in the Associated Press football poll who are destined for a head-on collision in Atlanta this weekend, you probably haven't. That's OK, I'll fill you in. While no team has risen above the pack, one SEC team remains undefeated two and a half weeks into the season. Care to guess who it is?
No, it's not the NCAA's all-time winningest program from Lexington. It's not the team from Gainesville that has won back-to-back titles this decade. Heck, it's not even the team from Knoxville that spent part of the 2007-08 season ranked No. 1.
It's the LSU Tigers.
First year coach Trent Johnson has his team undefeated at 6-0 and fans in Baton Rouge building expectations as the decade-long John Brady era is becoming a quickly-shrinking speck in the rear view mirror. While the victories have come over Directional State U and teams from the lowly SWAC and may not seem impressive, it's how these Tigers have won that is catching the attention of round ball regulars on the bayou.
When Johnson was lured away from Stanford --where he led the Cardinal to the Sweet 16 -- by the gumbo and hefty pay raise in south Louisiana, Johnson promised his teams would do two things: play defense and rebound the basketball. Observers may call Johnson intense. They may call the scowl he wears on his face "gruesome". They may even call him soft spoken. One thing they cannot call him is a liar.
Through six games, LSU is holding its opponents to an average of 58 points per game and a comical 33% from the field. The Tigers have been even better on the boards, out rebounding their victims by an average of 16 per game. Compare that to a season ago when teams scored 69 points per game, shot 42% from the field and out rebounded LSU by an average of two boards a game, and you have the reason why John Brady is coaching at Arkansas State and Trent Johnson has LSU undefeated.
Johnson also turned heads in Baton Rouge on basketball media day when he promised to sit guard Marcus Thornton --the second-leading scorer in the SEC a season ago-- until he realized he had to be effective on both ends of the floor and not just on offense. True to his word, Johnson played Thornton only 18 minutes in LSU's opener against Jackson State while Bo Spencer paced LSU with a career high 21 points. Since the opener, Thornton has emerged once again as LSU's leading scorer, but also has 18 defensive rebounds and five steals on the young season. It's safe to say Johnson has the attention of his team.
Tiger fans, on the other hand, may still need some convincing. While there is cautious optimism in Baton Rouge after the solid start to the season, most fans are choosing to focus on the lack of quality opponents instead of the quality product Johnson is putting on the floor. And that is more than fair. Of the six victories, only Cal State Fullerton earned an NCAA Tournament bid last season and they were bounced in the first round as a 14 seed. What's more, Tiger fans saw this play too many times under Brady when the Tigers would feast on in-state stepbrothers, rack up an impressive record, only to fall flat once conference play started.
The difference is that those Brady teams never had an identity. It's clear through only six games how Johnson plans on winning ballgames: score points and work like hell to stop the other team from doing the same. So far, so good.
As for the naysayers, don't worry Trent, you will have ample opportunity to make them believers soon enough. After all, Texas A&M, Washington State and Utah will all come calling soon enough. So, go ahead an prove your team in for real.
And maybe you will have the rest of the conference looking up at you.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Monday, December 1, 2008
Hello and Goodbye
I have said for many years that as a talk show host it is not my place to call for a coach or administrator to be fired. I am not paid to make those types of decisions and I am modest enough to know that there is a better chance of me solving that whole space-time continuum thing than being consulted when such decisions are made.
That being said, I am a member of the opinion media and I am paid to have an opinion. And it is my opinion that Les Miles needs to cut his losses (and there were five of them this season) and fire defensive co-coordinators Doug Mallory and Bradley Dale Peveto.
I do not personally know Mallory or Peveto and have only observed them at practices (when the media is allowed in) and in game situations like any other fan. From what I can tell, they are honest men who represent LSU and the football program with class and dignity. Unfortunately, they can't coach a lick of defense. For an LSU program that built its foundation of dominance over the past decade on a concrete wall of a defense, the results in 2008 were shocking. Even after Nick Saban bolted from Baton Rouge for the Miami Dolphins, Miles's first major hire of Bo Pelini as DC worked like a charm. LSU finished in the top three in the nation in total defense each of Pelini's three seasons in Baton Rouge.
I also understand what LSU lost in personnel from the 2007 National Championship team: two senior corners (Chevis Jackson and Jonathan Zenon); an All-American safety (Craig Steltz); two senior linebackers (Ali Highsmith and Luke Sanders); and the greatest defensive player the university has ever produced (Glenn Dorsey). However, I refuse to believe that even with those losses, the 2008 LSU defense should have fallen to the depths it did. Twice teams scored 50 or more points versus LSU -- a first in NCAA history for a defending national champion. Lowly Arkansas had its highest point output against the Tigers (31) and even Mississippi State -- a team that battled Auburn to a 3-2 loss -- hung 24 on LSU.
If numbers are for losers, then these numbers explain why LSU lost five games in the '08 campaign: 37th in total defense (326.5 ypg); 66th in scoring defense (25.9 ppg); 81st in pass defense (220 ypg). The rush defense was the lone bright spot, finishing the season ranked 16th nationally allowing 105 ypg. Simply, this result should be unacceptable fora program that has come to expect championships and pays its coaches accordingly.
The silver lining in the cloud of doubt for Les Miles is that it is not too late to turn things around. Miles proved through his first three seasons at LSU to be an excellent judge of coaching talent in making key hires. Pelini was a fine fit at DC and is now a head coach himself. Bringing in Gary Crowton as offensive coordinator to replace Jimbo Fisher might have been the boost that put LSU over the top in 2007. The one bad hire Miles has made since arriving at LSU was Mallory and Peveto and I have confidence that he can and will remedy the situation.
That being said, here are a few of the names being mentioned as possible replacements at DC should Miles decide to make a change:
Greg Robinson
-Robinson was recently fires after four lackluster seasons as Syracuse head coach. He has previously serves as defensive coordinator on mack Brown's staff at Texas in 2004 and 14 seasons as an NFL defensive coordinator for the Jets, Broncos and Chiefs. The knock on Robinson is that even as a defensive-minded head coach, his Orange defenses were awful, finishing the 2008 season 100th in total defense and 101st in scoring defense .
John Chavis
-Chavis has been an assistant coach at Tennessee since 1989 and has serves as defensive coordinator for Phillip Fulmer since 1995. Aside from sending a herd of Vols into the NFL, the '08 Vols were at the top of the conference rankings in most defensive statistical categories and finished 4th nationally in total defense and 5th nationally in pass defense. With Fulmer out at Tennessee, Chavis is looking for a job and knows the SEC well.
Ed Orgeron
-While Orgeron proved to be an excellent recruiter at USC and Ole Miss, his coaching ability is lacking. He led the Rebels to only two wins over teams with wining records in three seasons and has led an underachieving Saints defensive line in New Orleans this season. Also, it is unlikely that Miles and Orgeron could coexist after battling for recruits for three seasons.
Jon Tenuta
-He gained national acclaim during his six seasons as defensive coordinator at Georgia Tech. Known for his attacking style defense, Tenuta joined the Notre Dame staff as a defensive co-coordinator prior to the '08 season. The results for the Irish have not been good: 39th in total defense; 42nd in scoring defense; 62nd in rush defense; and 30th in pass defense. Tenuta's future in South bend will likely depend on Charlie Weis's status with the university.
That being said, I am a member of the opinion media and I am paid to have an opinion. And it is my opinion that Les Miles needs to cut his losses (and there were five of them this season) and fire defensive co-coordinators Doug Mallory and Bradley Dale Peveto.
I do not personally know Mallory or Peveto and have only observed them at practices (when the media is allowed in) and in game situations like any other fan. From what I can tell, they are honest men who represent LSU and the football program with class and dignity. Unfortunately, they can't coach a lick of defense. For an LSU program that built its foundation of dominance over the past decade on a concrete wall of a defense, the results in 2008 were shocking. Even after Nick Saban bolted from Baton Rouge for the Miami Dolphins, Miles's first major hire of Bo Pelini as DC worked like a charm. LSU finished in the top three in the nation in total defense each of Pelini's three seasons in Baton Rouge.
I also understand what LSU lost in personnel from the 2007 National Championship team: two senior corners (Chevis Jackson and Jonathan Zenon); an All-American safety (Craig Steltz); two senior linebackers (Ali Highsmith and Luke Sanders); and the greatest defensive player the university has ever produced (Glenn Dorsey). However, I refuse to believe that even with those losses, the 2008 LSU defense should have fallen to the depths it did. Twice teams scored 50 or more points versus LSU -- a first in NCAA history for a defending national champion. Lowly Arkansas had its highest point output against the Tigers (31) and even Mississippi State -- a team that battled Auburn to a 3-2 loss -- hung 24 on LSU.
If numbers are for losers, then these numbers explain why LSU lost five games in the '08 campaign: 37th in total defense (326.5 ypg); 66th in scoring defense (25.9 ppg); 81st in pass defense (220 ypg). The rush defense was the lone bright spot, finishing the season ranked 16th nationally allowing 105 ypg. Simply, this result should be unacceptable fora program that has come to expect championships and pays its coaches accordingly.
The silver lining in the cloud of doubt for Les Miles is that it is not too late to turn things around. Miles proved through his first three seasons at LSU to be an excellent judge of coaching talent in making key hires. Pelini was a fine fit at DC and is now a head coach himself. Bringing in Gary Crowton as offensive coordinator to replace Jimbo Fisher might have been the boost that put LSU over the top in 2007. The one bad hire Miles has made since arriving at LSU was Mallory and Peveto and I have confidence that he can and will remedy the situation.
That being said, here are a few of the names being mentioned as possible replacements at DC should Miles decide to make a change:
Greg Robinson
-Robinson was recently fires after four lackluster seasons as Syracuse head coach. He has previously serves as defensive coordinator on mack Brown's staff at Texas in 2004 and 14 seasons as an NFL defensive coordinator for the Jets, Broncos and Chiefs. The knock on Robinson is that even as a defensive-minded head coach, his Orange defenses were awful, finishing the 2008 season 100th in total defense and 101st in scoring defense .
John Chavis
-Chavis has been an assistant coach at Tennessee since 1989 and has serves as defensive coordinator for Phillip Fulmer since 1995. Aside from sending a herd of Vols into the NFL, the '08 Vols were at the top of the conference rankings in most defensive statistical categories and finished 4th nationally in total defense and 5th nationally in pass defense. With Fulmer out at Tennessee, Chavis is looking for a job and knows the SEC well.
Ed Orgeron
-While Orgeron proved to be an excellent recruiter at USC and Ole Miss, his coaching ability is lacking. He led the Rebels to only two wins over teams with wining records in three seasons and has led an underachieving Saints defensive line in New Orleans this season. Also, it is unlikely that Miles and Orgeron could coexist after battling for recruits for three seasons.
Jon Tenuta
-He gained national acclaim during his six seasons as defensive coordinator at Georgia Tech. Known for his attacking style defense, Tenuta joined the Notre Dame staff as a defensive co-coordinator prior to the '08 season. The results for the Irish have not been good: 39th in total defense; 42nd in scoring defense; 62nd in rush defense; and 30th in pass defense. Tenuta's future in South bend will likely depend on Charlie Weis's status with the university.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Park It, Parker
As I have written before, the ever-growing number of students-athletes that leave their respective sport in hopes of netting lucrative professional contracts is distressing. The latest addition to that list is just plain perplexing.
Tennessee junior forward Candace Parker announced through coach Pat Summit Thursday that she will forgo her senior season on Rocky Top to pursue a professional career.
Seriously? I mean, April Fool's is still six weeks away!
Ok, let's begin by looking at the positives for Parker leaving early. She has already won a national championship with the Lady Vols. Parker is an exemplary student-athlete and will graduate this semester. What's more, Parker will compete in the Beijing Olympics this summer and likely win a gold medal with Team USA's Women's Basketball team. In all, a degree, national title and gold medal is a pretty hefty purse to tote to the WNBA.
And therein lies the rub.
The WNBA.
Maybe someone at Tennessee forgot to tell Candace WNBA salaries are not exactly on par with those of their male counterparts in pro basketball. In fact, the rookie salary in the WNBA hovers right around $30,000. No, there are no zeroes missing. Thirty grand! The maximum salary last season was $100,000.
Instead of remaining in Knoxville for her senior season and playing on national television for the most historic women's basketball program in NCAA history, Parker will relegate herself to virtual obscurity in a league no one cares about. While the Lady Vols play in front of more than 15,000 fans a night, only Detroit drew more than 9,000 fans a game last season in the WNBA.
What's a successful women's baller to do? The path has actually already been paved by a former Lady Vol, Kara Lawson. Parker needs to build more notoriety during one more season with the Lady Vols. Then join the WNBA and work as a NCAA analyst for ESPN during the WNBA off season, as Lawson does. Parker is attractive and obviously bright since she is graduating early from UT. Her accolades as a Lady Vol make her more than qualified to hold down the post.
Just stay away from the post in the WNBA for as long as possible.
Tennessee junior forward Candace Parker announced through coach Pat Summit Thursday that she will forgo her senior season on Rocky Top to pursue a professional career.
Seriously? I mean, April Fool's is still six weeks away!
Ok, let's begin by looking at the positives for Parker leaving early. She has already won a national championship with the Lady Vols. Parker is an exemplary student-athlete and will graduate this semester. What's more, Parker will compete in the Beijing Olympics this summer and likely win a gold medal with Team USA's Women's Basketball team. In all, a degree, national title and gold medal is a pretty hefty purse to tote to the WNBA.
And therein lies the rub.
The WNBA.
Maybe someone at Tennessee forgot to tell Candace WNBA salaries are not exactly on par with those of their male counterparts in pro basketball. In fact, the rookie salary in the WNBA hovers right around $30,000. No, there are no zeroes missing. Thirty grand! The maximum salary last season was $100,000.
Instead of remaining in Knoxville for her senior season and playing on national television for the most historic women's basketball program in NCAA history, Parker will relegate herself to virtual obscurity in a league no one cares about. While the Lady Vols play in front of more than 15,000 fans a night, only Detroit drew more than 9,000 fans a game last season in the WNBA.
What's a successful women's baller to do? The path has actually already been paved by a former Lady Vol, Kara Lawson. Parker needs to build more notoriety during one more season with the Lady Vols. Then join the WNBA and work as a NCAA analyst for ESPN during the WNBA off season, as Lawson does. Parker is attractive and obviously bright since she is graduating early from UT. Her accolades as a Lady Vol make her more than qualified to hold down the post.
Just stay away from the post in the WNBA for as long as possible.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Giant Disagreement
Go ahead. Admit it.
It's OK. You are probably one of the millions of people whose head hit the pillow Sunday night thinking, "That was the best Super Bowl of all time."
And why wouldn't you think that? Football God knows there is plenty of evidence to support your claim. The unbeatable Patriots are upset on their quest for 19-0. Eli Manning outduels Tom Brady. David Tyree's circus one-hand-against-the-helmet catch. Surely this was an epic clash. Heck, a Super Bowl record 97.5 million people tuned in. Only the M.A.S.H series finale can claim to have had a larger viewership.
On the other hand, I almost went to bed during the game.
Now, let me be fair. The final 11 minutes of the 4th quarter could quite possible be considered the greatest 11 minutes in Super Bowl history. After an offensively offensive day, two marquee quarterbacks led their team on clutch drives, answering the other each time to reclaim the lead. However, the game as a whole was severely lacking.
For a team purporting to be the greatest in NFL history, the New England Patriots could not even make the claim to be the best team on the field at university of Phoenix Stadium Sunday. An offensive line the boasts three Pro Bowlers allowed Brady to be sacked five times and hurried an additional nine times. The line was equally inept in their run blocking, paving the way for a grand total of 45 net rushing yards. Perhaps the guys were thinking about Hawaii's blue skies and Mai Tai's a week too soon.
Undoubtedly, there are those that will credit the Giants defense for the Patriots' struggles. And much of that praise in warranted. The Giants defensive line was a stronger, faster, more determined bunch all evening, and it showed -- until the point when it mattered most! After Manning drove for the go ahead score in the final frame, that vaunted Giants defense grabbed the throat, allowing Tom Brady to methodically march 80 yards in 12 plays, chewing up more than five minutes off the game clock. So much for 'Defense Wins Championships.' The Giants D almost lost this one.
But not for Eli Manning. Sort of.
The game's MVP won the award almost by default. The Pats held the edge on first downs, while the Giants totaled more net yards. Time of possession was even. Both teams were 50 percent on third-down conversions. Neither team cracked 100 yards rushing. Until Manning hit David Tyree for a score at the 11:05 mark of the 4th quarter, the MVP had guided his team to a grand total of three points in the game! And that chip shot figgie came on the game's first possession after Manning failed to get his team in the endzone following a 16 play drive that ate up ten minutes to open the game.
Manning won the honor based on his work on the Giants' game-winning drive. Surely Super Bowl history will look at David Tyree's catch as among the greatest in the game's history. Rightfully so. Manning eluded two New England defenders who had him in their grasp to scramble around, buying just enough time to loft a dying duck to Tyree who fought off Rodney Harrison's blanket coverage with one hand while pinning the ball against his helmet with the other. Thirty-two yards later, we have a play that will buy Tyree free meals in New York City for the rest of his life and a highlight reel staple for decades.
What we will probably never see again is the play before that one. It is a play that could have been equally as memorable in Patriots lore as it would have sealed 19-0 and a fourth Super Bowl title in seven seasons. Manning miscommunicated with his receiver and lofted a pass down the right sideline. As Tyree cut his rout short, All Pro corner Asante Samuel was waiting in perfect position to snag the INT and seal the win for the Patriots. Samuel jumped, opened his hands, and then forgot to close them. The ball passed through Samuel's hands, falling helplessly to the turf, allowing Manning the opportunity to hit Tyree for the big gainer on the next play. Manning was thisclose to being the goat and Samuel the hero.
But that was the story of this game: great NFL players consistently making goofs. Steve Smith allowed a ball to bounce off his hands in the second quarter, tossing it into the hands of Ellis Hobbs of the Patriots. Eli Manning held the ball like a loaf of bread, fumbling twice after being hit by patriots defenders. The Pats defense could not receover either fumble, despite having numbers around it both times. There were dropped interceptions, missed receivers, shanked kick-offs, missed blocks, and even Tom Petty was boring at halftime. Seriously, could he have cared any less during that show? Maybe his last dance with Mary Jane took place in the bowels of University of Phoenix Satdium to entertain himself during an unentertaining first half.
There are football purists who will claim that they love a good old fashioned defensive ballgame. I have no problem with good defense. What I have a problem with is ineptitude on both sides of the ball. And there was plenty of that to go around Sunday. Just because a game is competitive, does not mean it is a quality product. I used to watch a minor leafue hockey team in Baton Rouge battle to 4-3 victories or shootout losses. The games were competitive, but the quality of play was lacking. That's what we were treated to Sunday: a competitive minor league hockey game.
Think of it this was: had this been a game between the Bengals and Chiefs in week 3, would you have watched? Not just no, but heck no!
Congratulations to Eli Manning and the Giants. You did what no one else could do this season -- beat the Patriots.
And you've duped America into believeing you did it all in Super fashion.
It's OK. You are probably one of the millions of people whose head hit the pillow Sunday night thinking, "That was the best Super Bowl of all time."
And why wouldn't you think that? Football God knows there is plenty of evidence to support your claim. The unbeatable Patriots are upset on their quest for 19-0. Eli Manning outduels Tom Brady. David Tyree's circus one-hand-against-the-helmet catch. Surely this was an epic clash. Heck, a Super Bowl record 97.5 million people tuned in. Only the M.A.S.H series finale can claim to have had a larger viewership.
On the other hand, I almost went to bed during the game.
Now, let me be fair. The final 11 minutes of the 4th quarter could quite possible be considered the greatest 11 minutes in Super Bowl history. After an offensively offensive day, two marquee quarterbacks led their team on clutch drives, answering the other each time to reclaim the lead. However, the game as a whole was severely lacking.
For a team purporting to be the greatest in NFL history, the New England Patriots could not even make the claim to be the best team on the field at university of Phoenix Stadium Sunday. An offensive line the boasts three Pro Bowlers allowed Brady to be sacked five times and hurried an additional nine times. The line was equally inept in their run blocking, paving the way for a grand total of 45 net rushing yards. Perhaps the guys were thinking about Hawaii's blue skies and Mai Tai's a week too soon.
Undoubtedly, there are those that will credit the Giants defense for the Patriots' struggles. And much of that praise in warranted. The Giants defensive line was a stronger, faster, more determined bunch all evening, and it showed -- until the point when it mattered most! After Manning drove for the go ahead score in the final frame, that vaunted Giants defense grabbed the throat, allowing Tom Brady to methodically march 80 yards in 12 plays, chewing up more than five minutes off the game clock. So much for 'Defense Wins Championships.' The Giants D almost lost this one.
But not for Eli Manning. Sort of.
The game's MVP won the award almost by default. The Pats held the edge on first downs, while the Giants totaled more net yards. Time of possession was even. Both teams were 50 percent on third-down conversions. Neither team cracked 100 yards rushing. Until Manning hit David Tyree for a score at the 11:05 mark of the 4th quarter, the MVP had guided his team to a grand total of three points in the game! And that chip shot figgie came on the game's first possession after Manning failed to get his team in the endzone following a 16 play drive that ate up ten minutes to open the game.
Manning won the honor based on his work on the Giants' game-winning drive. Surely Super Bowl history will look at David Tyree's catch as among the greatest in the game's history. Rightfully so. Manning eluded two New England defenders who had him in their grasp to scramble around, buying just enough time to loft a dying duck to Tyree who fought off Rodney Harrison's blanket coverage with one hand while pinning the ball against his helmet with the other. Thirty-two yards later, we have a play that will buy Tyree free meals in New York City for the rest of his life and a highlight reel staple for decades.
What we will probably never see again is the play before that one. It is a play that could have been equally as memorable in Patriots lore as it would have sealed 19-0 and a fourth Super Bowl title in seven seasons. Manning miscommunicated with his receiver and lofted a pass down the right sideline. As Tyree cut his rout short, All Pro corner Asante Samuel was waiting in perfect position to snag the INT and seal the win for the Patriots. Samuel jumped, opened his hands, and then forgot to close them. The ball passed through Samuel's hands, falling helplessly to the turf, allowing Manning the opportunity to hit Tyree for the big gainer on the next play. Manning was thisclose to being the goat and Samuel the hero.
But that was the story of this game: great NFL players consistently making goofs. Steve Smith allowed a ball to bounce off his hands in the second quarter, tossing it into the hands of Ellis Hobbs of the Patriots. Eli Manning held the ball like a loaf of bread, fumbling twice after being hit by patriots defenders. The Pats defense could not receover either fumble, despite having numbers around it both times. There were dropped interceptions, missed receivers, shanked kick-offs, missed blocks, and even Tom Petty was boring at halftime. Seriously, could he have cared any less during that show? Maybe his last dance with Mary Jane took place in the bowels of University of Phoenix Satdium to entertain himself during an unentertaining first half.
There are football purists who will claim that they love a good old fashioned defensive ballgame. I have no problem with good defense. What I have a problem with is ineptitude on both sides of the ball. And there was plenty of that to go around Sunday. Just because a game is competitive, does not mean it is a quality product. I used to watch a minor leafue hockey team in Baton Rouge battle to 4-3 victories or shootout losses. The games were competitive, but the quality of play was lacking. That's what we were treated to Sunday: a competitive minor league hockey game.
Think of it this was: had this been a game between the Bengals and Chiefs in week 3, would you have watched? Not just no, but heck no!
Congratulations to Eli Manning and the Giants. You did what no one else could do this season -- beat the Patriots.
And you've duped America into believeing you did it all in Super fashion.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Super Silly Senator
Clearly the United States Senate is not busy enough.
Finding a way out of Iraq must not be challenging enough for elected officials.
Neither is battling drug problems, swelling illegal immigration, teen pregnancy, an inevitible recession, global warming, the Kennedy Assassination, Hannah Montanta, and Big Foot.
Our infrastructure must be perfect. Foreign relations could not be better.
Nope. Our very capable U.S. Senate must have all of those challenges nipped in the bud.
That is the only logical explanation why Senator Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) chose Super Bowl Sunday to announce his investigation into the NFL's response to Sypgate -- the scandal involving the New England Patriots filming opposing coaches to steal signals.
Yes, a man who has spent nearly 30 years in the United States Senate is investigating if the NFL properly punished cheaters. Maybe next, Specter will seek a retroactive punishment against wide receivers who used Stickum to help catch passes.
In a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Specter wrote, "I am very concerned about the underlying facts on the taping, the reasons for the judgment on the limited penalties and, most of all, on the inexplicable destruction of the tapes."
Let's examine Specter's concerns one at a time. The underlying facts on the taping are quite simple: a coach was trying to help his team win. He had peons in the Patriots organization film opposing coaches and he got caught by a former assistant now with another team who was hip to the practice. Are we clear?
As for the "limited penalties", nothing could be farther from the truth. The $500,000 fine levied against Patriots coach Bill Belichick is the maximum possible penalty. Also, the Patriots must pay an additional $250,000 fine and forfeit their first-round choice in the 2008 NFL Draft -- a first in NFL history. That hardly seems "limited."
And after the NFL confiscated the six tapes from the Patriots and conducted a thorough review of their contents, they were destroyed. Last week, Goodell said, "There are very good explanations why the tapes were destroyed by our staff -- there was no purpose for them." Simply, the Pats got caught. The NFL punished them. Public opinion will decide how history judges their dynasty. End of story.
Hardly. Specter tells ESPN's Bob Ley the investigation could broaden. Says Specter, "We're going to follow the facts and if warranted, there could be hearings." Hearings! As in Senate hearings! As in United States taxpayer dollars funding a charade where self-important Senators drill NFL officials about a game. I know I'll sure sleep soundly tonight knowing these are the people deciding policy that affects my country. Maybe next month the Senate could televise hearings into the inexplicable disappearance of slap bracelets.
Specter claims his investigation is centered around possible Antitrust violations stemming from Spygate. Antitrust laws were put into place to prohibit anti-competitive behavior which hurts businesses or consumers. Spygate hardly seems to have hurt business in the NFL. Maybe Sen. Specter missed the Nielsen Ratings from Super Bowl XLII which estimates more than 97 million people tuned in to the game, making it the second most-watched event in television history -- a game involving those same darn cheating Pats, coincidentially.
I wonder if FOX was upset about collecting $2.7 million per ad during the game.
I doubt QVC felt the pain of unfair competition when more than half of their championship merchandise was sold within 60 seconds of the conclusion of Sunday's game.
And I wonder if the New York Giants felt they were at a disadvantage when they pistol-whipped the Patriots for 60 minutes during the Super Bowl.
So sleep easy tonight, my fellow Americans. Our diligent law makers have solved poverty, homelessness, and gang violence. Terrorism is a thing of the past. High school dropouts are no more. And we know what happened to Natalee Holloway.
The NFL has never been helathier, more popular or more profitable.
And apparently, the U.S. Senate has never had less to do.
Finding a way out of Iraq must not be challenging enough for elected officials.
Neither is battling drug problems, swelling illegal immigration, teen pregnancy, an inevitible recession, global warming, the Kennedy Assassination, Hannah Montanta, and Big Foot.
Our infrastructure must be perfect. Foreign relations could not be better.
Nope. Our very capable U.S. Senate must have all of those challenges nipped in the bud.
That is the only logical explanation why Senator Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) chose Super Bowl Sunday to announce his investigation into the NFL's response to Sypgate -- the scandal involving the New England Patriots filming opposing coaches to steal signals.
Yes, a man who has spent nearly 30 years in the United States Senate is investigating if the NFL properly punished cheaters. Maybe next, Specter will seek a retroactive punishment against wide receivers who used Stickum to help catch passes.
In a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Specter wrote, "I am very concerned about the underlying facts on the taping, the reasons for the judgment on the limited penalties and, most of all, on the inexplicable destruction of the tapes."
Let's examine Specter's concerns one at a time. The underlying facts on the taping are quite simple: a coach was trying to help his team win. He had peons in the Patriots organization film opposing coaches and he got caught by a former assistant now with another team who was hip to the practice. Are we clear?
As for the "limited penalties", nothing could be farther from the truth. The $500,000 fine levied against Patriots coach Bill Belichick is the maximum possible penalty. Also, the Patriots must pay an additional $250,000 fine and forfeit their first-round choice in the 2008 NFL Draft -- a first in NFL history. That hardly seems "limited."
And after the NFL confiscated the six tapes from the Patriots and conducted a thorough review of their contents, they were destroyed. Last week, Goodell said, "There are very good explanations why the tapes were destroyed by our staff -- there was no purpose for them." Simply, the Pats got caught. The NFL punished them. Public opinion will decide how history judges their dynasty. End of story.
Hardly. Specter tells ESPN's Bob Ley the investigation could broaden. Says Specter, "We're going to follow the facts and if warranted, there could be hearings." Hearings! As in Senate hearings! As in United States taxpayer dollars funding a charade where self-important Senators drill NFL officials about a game. I know I'll sure sleep soundly tonight knowing these are the people deciding policy that affects my country. Maybe next month the Senate could televise hearings into the inexplicable disappearance of slap bracelets.
Specter claims his investigation is centered around possible Antitrust violations stemming from Spygate. Antitrust laws were put into place to prohibit anti-competitive behavior which hurts businesses or consumers. Spygate hardly seems to have hurt business in the NFL. Maybe Sen. Specter missed the Nielsen Ratings from Super Bowl XLII which estimates more than 97 million people tuned in to the game, making it the second most-watched event in television history -- a game involving those same darn cheating Pats, coincidentially.
I wonder if FOX was upset about collecting $2.7 million per ad during the game.
I doubt QVC felt the pain of unfair competition when more than half of their championship merchandise was sold within 60 seconds of the conclusion of Sunday's game.
And I wonder if the New York Giants felt they were at a disadvantage when they pistol-whipped the Patriots for 60 minutes during the Super Bowl.
So sleep easy tonight, my fellow Americans. Our diligent law makers have solved poverty, homelessness, and gang violence. Terrorism is a thing of the past. High school dropouts are no more. And we know what happened to Natalee Holloway.
The NFL has never been helathier, more popular or more profitable.
And apparently, the U.S. Senate has never had less to do.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Unfriendly Hornets Nest
Care to take a stab at which NBA team has the best record in the Western Conference?
The defending champion San Antonio Spurs, you say? Nah. They're a solid 28-16, but this team trounced the Spurs by 24 over the weekend.
The high-powered Phoenix Suns? Uh-uh
Last year's steamroller, the Dallas Mavericks? Nope
It's the unassuming New Orleans Hornets.
Chris Paul's steady hand and Peja Stojakovic's hot one have helped the Hornets cool the Suns, dull the Spurs and drain the Lakers on their way to a 32-13 record two weeks out from the All-Star break.
While their journey from the duldrums to dominance is stunning, equally as shocking could be this gem: the Hornets are pulling up the rear when it comes to attendance.
Of the 30 NBA teams, only Indiana has drawn fewer fans at home games during the first half of this young season. Going by percentage capacity, New Orleans edges Memphis and Philly for third-worst in the league. When they hit the road, no team draws fewer fans to opposing arenas than the FIRST PLACE Hornets.
While businessmen and cynical sports talk hosts are ready to toss in the towel on New Orleans owning an NBA franchise, I'm not ready to make that leap just yet, despite embarassing attendance figures.
The most common argument for the team's lack of support from the locals is the Stepchild Theory. Basically, there are those that claim because the Hornets came from Charlotte and were not born in New Orleans, the city will never embrace the team the way they might an expansion franchise. Much like a parent will seldom love a stepchild with the same vigor he would his biological child.
Interesting, since the Indianapolis Colts seem to be doing well after their move from Baltimore two decades ago. So much so that the city of Indianapolis is helping the World Champions build a new stadium at an estimated cost of $625 million. That's a lot of cash for a stepchild.
Need we mention the Los Angeles Lakers moved from Minnesota; the Tennessee Titans once called Houston home; Fort Wayne hosted the Detroit Pistons; oh, and the team that was stripped from New Orleans which still bears its name in Utah claims the fifth-best attendance record currently in the NBA. So much for that theory.
Some blame silly things like the mascot and color scheme, while others think parking and safety in New Orleans are to blame. Others say there is just not enough disposable income in post-Katrina New Orleans to support two professional franchises.
Baloney! All of it.
The truth is, there is just no emotional connection with this team and there are many reasons that have caused this.
Aside from Peja and Paul, south Louisiana sports fans would be hard-pressed to name the other three members of the starting five. And don't even mention the bench players. Nobody knows this team, and the actions of the NBA after Hurricane Katrina are to blame. While the struggles endured in the Superdome have been well-chronicled, the newer design of the New Orleans Arena allowed it to hold up well during the storm. While the city may not have been open for business, the Arena was reopened only one month after Katrina hit. Yet, the Hornets did not play a game in New Orleans until March 8, 2006 -- 19 months post-Katrina. How can a city take ownership of a franchise when a fan base only sees its team on television with the words "Oklahoma City Hornets" littered across the floor of the Ford Center?
True, the Hornets were dead last in attendance the season before Katrina, but during their playoff run in 2002-2003 they were in the middle of the attendance pack. It was only during lean years under Tim Floyd and the departure of fan favorites Baron Davis and Jamal Mashburn that attendance waned. Translation: give the people a winning product and they will come.
This year the team is winning -- a lot -- and people are still not coming. The answer is quite simple. The Hornets have been out of sight, out of mind for two seaons, while the beginning of the current season coincided with the LSU football team's run to a National Championship. Truthfully, the Hornets could be in the middle of a Jordan-esque championship run and the sports world is south Louisiana would stop if LSU were making a football title push. So, while radio and television analysts were debating which color sweatervest Jim Tressel would wear for the BCS National Championship Game, the Hornets were gelling and running to the top of the standings.
Now, here were are three weeks after the Tigers pounded Ohio State to take home the crystal ball, the championship buzz has worn off and lo and behold the Hornets are in first place. With LSU basketball dragging up the rear in the SEC and baseball still a month away, people will begin to notice this team. And when they do, they will like what they see.
Chris Paul is a legitimate MVP candidate. Peja is shooting almost .500 from three-point range. Julian Wright can jump out of the gym. And the NBA world will turn its eyes to New Orleans next month for the All-Star Game. Sports fans love to follow a winner. There may not be a better time for south Louisiana to fall in love with the Hornets. There may not be a more necessary time either, as Oklahoma City would welcome the Hornets back in a flash.
If New Orleans wants to keep its basketball team, it had better turn the New Orleans Arena from a dried up beehive into a Hornets nest.
A full Hornest Nest.
The defending champion San Antonio Spurs, you say? Nah. They're a solid 28-16, but this team trounced the Spurs by 24 over the weekend.
The high-powered Phoenix Suns? Uh-uh
Last year's steamroller, the Dallas Mavericks? Nope
It's the unassuming New Orleans Hornets.
Chris Paul's steady hand and Peja Stojakovic's hot one have helped the Hornets cool the Suns, dull the Spurs and drain the Lakers on their way to a 32-13 record two weeks out from the All-Star break.
While their journey from the duldrums to dominance is stunning, equally as shocking could be this gem: the Hornets are pulling up the rear when it comes to attendance.
Of the 30 NBA teams, only Indiana has drawn fewer fans at home games during the first half of this young season. Going by percentage capacity, New Orleans edges Memphis and Philly for third-worst in the league. When they hit the road, no team draws fewer fans to opposing arenas than the FIRST PLACE Hornets.
While businessmen and cynical sports talk hosts are ready to toss in the towel on New Orleans owning an NBA franchise, I'm not ready to make that leap just yet, despite embarassing attendance figures.
The most common argument for the team's lack of support from the locals is the Stepchild Theory. Basically, there are those that claim because the Hornets came from Charlotte and were not born in New Orleans, the city will never embrace the team the way they might an expansion franchise. Much like a parent will seldom love a stepchild with the same vigor he would his biological child.
Interesting, since the Indianapolis Colts seem to be doing well after their move from Baltimore two decades ago. So much so that the city of Indianapolis is helping the World Champions build a new stadium at an estimated cost of $625 million. That's a lot of cash for a stepchild.
Need we mention the Los Angeles Lakers moved from Minnesota; the Tennessee Titans once called Houston home; Fort Wayne hosted the Detroit Pistons; oh, and the team that was stripped from New Orleans which still bears its name in Utah claims the fifth-best attendance record currently in the NBA. So much for that theory.
Some blame silly things like the mascot and color scheme, while others think parking and safety in New Orleans are to blame. Others say there is just not enough disposable income in post-Katrina New Orleans to support two professional franchises.
Baloney! All of it.
The truth is, there is just no emotional connection with this team and there are many reasons that have caused this.
Aside from Peja and Paul, south Louisiana sports fans would be hard-pressed to name the other three members of the starting five. And don't even mention the bench players. Nobody knows this team, and the actions of the NBA after Hurricane Katrina are to blame. While the struggles endured in the Superdome have been well-chronicled, the newer design of the New Orleans Arena allowed it to hold up well during the storm. While the city may not have been open for business, the Arena was reopened only one month after Katrina hit. Yet, the Hornets did not play a game in New Orleans until March 8, 2006 -- 19 months post-Katrina. How can a city take ownership of a franchise when a fan base only sees its team on television with the words "Oklahoma City Hornets" littered across the floor of the Ford Center?
True, the Hornets were dead last in attendance the season before Katrina, but during their playoff run in 2002-2003 they were in the middle of the attendance pack. It was only during lean years under Tim Floyd and the departure of fan favorites Baron Davis and Jamal Mashburn that attendance waned. Translation: give the people a winning product and they will come.
This year the team is winning -- a lot -- and people are still not coming. The answer is quite simple. The Hornets have been out of sight, out of mind for two seaons, while the beginning of the current season coincided with the LSU football team's run to a National Championship. Truthfully, the Hornets could be in the middle of a Jordan-esque championship run and the sports world is south Louisiana would stop if LSU were making a football title push. So, while radio and television analysts were debating which color sweatervest Jim Tressel would wear for the BCS National Championship Game, the Hornets were gelling and running to the top of the standings.
Now, here were are three weeks after the Tigers pounded Ohio State to take home the crystal ball, the championship buzz has worn off and lo and behold the Hornets are in first place. With LSU basketball dragging up the rear in the SEC and baseball still a month away, people will begin to notice this team. And when they do, they will like what they see.
Chris Paul is a legitimate MVP candidate. Peja is shooting almost .500 from three-point range. Julian Wright can jump out of the gym. And the NBA world will turn its eyes to New Orleans next month for the All-Star Game. Sports fans love to follow a winner. There may not be a better time for south Louisiana to fall in love with the Hornets. There may not be a more necessary time either, as Oklahoma City would welcome the Hornets back in a flash.
If New Orleans wants to keep its basketball team, it had better turn the New Orleans Arena from a dried up beehive into a Hornets nest.
A full Hornest Nest.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Football Junkies Unite
Are you like me?
If so, then this past December 20, when Utah and Navy locked horns in the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl, you were locked into coverage, despite having absolutely zero rooting interest.
Same goes for when Memphis tangled with Florida Atlantic, East Carolina blitzed Boise State and for the rest of this college football season's 32 bowl games. The reason: because I'm a football junkie, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
I get overly agitated when people who claim to be college football loyalists moan about there being too many bowl games. To a football junkie, there is no such thing. Think about it: it's a random Thursday night in December; all of your TV shows are in reruns; it's too cold to do anything outside; and the glory that is college football rewards you for your loyalty with free football! How is this bad?
Just as we begin our entry into the coldest, darkest months of the year -- Spring -- a time when football as we know it ceases to exist and junkie's like me are cast into withdrawals scraping for anything to satisfy our addiction, a new shimmer of hope is emerging. It's called the All-American Football League, and I am already an ardent fan.
True, sports fans have seen professional football leagues come and go. We all remember the wildly popular but short-lives USFL; Vince McMahon's XFL debacle; and who could forget NFL Europe's failure despite the backing of the most powerful professional sports league in the world. But I believe, with a few modifications, the AAFL could work. I mean, really work.
The league is made up of six teams without mascots and bearing only the name of the state it represents: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee, Texas. The goal is to create border loyalty as is often demonstrated in college football. Think Tennessee-Alabama in the Spring instead of October. Franchises have been cemented in areas saturated with football-crazed fans dying for a football fix in the Spring (Notice four of the six teams are in SEC states). Teams are also allowed to "protect" players who played college ball in their designated area, allowing the local fan bases a greater familiarity with its players. Oh, and most importantly, the games are played in the Spring, so there is no direct competition with the NFL.
Another important factor that the AAFL is addressing is perception. If these games were to be played at local high school facilities where fans line up at a Pot-O-Gold to use the restroom and purchase concessions from the bed of a pick-up, attendance would dive and the league would be a laughing-stock. Instead, the AAFL has reserved major venues to feature their games: Ford Field, Neyland Stadium, War Memorial Stadium, Legion Field, and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to name a few. By holding its games in larger, historic venues, the league is granted instant credibility and allows fans the feeling of a "big game" atmosphere.
The AAFL also gains instant credibility with several players currently on AAFL rosters. Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch will play for Team Texas. Former NFL No. 1 draft pick Peter Warrick has agreed to suit up for Team Florida. National Championship quarterbacks Chris Leak of Florida and Tee Martin of Tennessee are also on board. All six rosters are littered with names football fans will recall from their days playing major Division I football.
While I am jazzed about the opportunity to see quality football in the Spring, I do believe the AAFL might be shooting itself in the foot in one area. The league requires all of its players to have exhausted their college eligibility and and to have received their college degree. Sadly, this eliminates a chunk of potential talent on AAFL rosters. For example, Trev Faulk was an All-SEC linebacker at LSU before leaving school early for the NFL. Faulk went undrafted and is bouncing around the league as nothing more than a practice squad player. Faulk could be an impact player on an AAFL roster, but will not get the chance because he left school before finishing his degree.
Fans will watch, but they will also want to watch a quality product. The AAFL only hinders that effort by instituting this rule. While I believe the essence of the rule is good in forcing players to consider life after football, it will only hurt the bottom line. Consider the aforementioned XFL. It was a ratings bonanza in Week 1. However, a sub par product caused ratings to sink so far that Saturday night programming on PAX and UPN were outpacing the XFL. Yes, PAX was beating a live football game! It's no wonder the league bottomed out after one season.
The AAFL will also need to address fan bases in states outside of those hosting teams. The protected player rule extends for smaller states to include neighboring states. Team Arkansas, for example, can protect players from Oklahoma and Louisiana as well. However, while there are 11 players currently on the Arkansas roster from Louisiana, all five home games are being player in Little Rock. Honestly, there is little to no likelihood of any LSU fan driving to Little Rock to watch an AAFL game. Team Florida has the right idea. To galvanize their fan base throughout the entire state, games will be played in Jacksonville, Gainesville and Tampa. Arkansas should be open to playing home games in Baton Rouge and Stillwater as well. Don't designate fans for your team and then shun them.
The AAFL has potential. Any league willing to provide relief to football junkies in dark times of Spring is welcomed. It would be a shame to see poor planning send the AAFL into a tailspin and football junkies like myself back into withdrawals.
If so, then this past December 20, when Utah and Navy locked horns in the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl, you were locked into coverage, despite having absolutely zero rooting interest.
Same goes for when Memphis tangled with Florida Atlantic, East Carolina blitzed Boise State and for the rest of this college football season's 32 bowl games. The reason: because I'm a football junkie, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
I get overly agitated when people who claim to be college football loyalists moan about there being too many bowl games. To a football junkie, there is no such thing. Think about it: it's a random Thursday night in December; all of your TV shows are in reruns; it's too cold to do anything outside; and the glory that is college football rewards you for your loyalty with free football! How is this bad?
Just as we begin our entry into the coldest, darkest months of the year -- Spring -- a time when football as we know it ceases to exist and junkie's like me are cast into withdrawals scraping for anything to satisfy our addiction, a new shimmer of hope is emerging. It's called the All-American Football League, and I am already an ardent fan.
True, sports fans have seen professional football leagues come and go. We all remember the wildly popular but short-lives USFL; Vince McMahon's XFL debacle; and who could forget NFL Europe's failure despite the backing of the most powerful professional sports league in the world. But I believe, with a few modifications, the AAFL could work. I mean, really work.
The league is made up of six teams without mascots and bearing only the name of the state it represents: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee, Texas. The goal is to create border loyalty as is often demonstrated in college football. Think Tennessee-Alabama in the Spring instead of October. Franchises have been cemented in areas saturated with football-crazed fans dying for a football fix in the Spring (Notice four of the six teams are in SEC states). Teams are also allowed to "protect" players who played college ball in their designated area, allowing the local fan bases a greater familiarity with its players. Oh, and most importantly, the games are played in the Spring, so there is no direct competition with the NFL.
Another important factor that the AAFL is addressing is perception. If these games were to be played at local high school facilities where fans line up at a Pot-O-Gold to use the restroom and purchase concessions from the bed of a pick-up, attendance would dive and the league would be a laughing-stock. Instead, the AAFL has reserved major venues to feature their games: Ford Field, Neyland Stadium, War Memorial Stadium, Legion Field, and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to name a few. By holding its games in larger, historic venues, the league is granted instant credibility and allows fans the feeling of a "big game" atmosphere.
The AAFL also gains instant credibility with several players currently on AAFL rosters. Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch will play for Team Texas. Former NFL No. 1 draft pick Peter Warrick has agreed to suit up for Team Florida. National Championship quarterbacks Chris Leak of Florida and Tee Martin of Tennessee are also on board. All six rosters are littered with names football fans will recall from their days playing major Division I football.
While I am jazzed about the opportunity to see quality football in the Spring, I do believe the AAFL might be shooting itself in the foot in one area. The league requires all of its players to have exhausted their college eligibility and and to have received their college degree. Sadly, this eliminates a chunk of potential talent on AAFL rosters. For example, Trev Faulk was an All-SEC linebacker at LSU before leaving school early for the NFL. Faulk went undrafted and is bouncing around the league as nothing more than a practice squad player. Faulk could be an impact player on an AAFL roster, but will not get the chance because he left school before finishing his degree.
Fans will watch, but they will also want to watch a quality product. The AAFL only hinders that effort by instituting this rule. While I believe the essence of the rule is good in forcing players to consider life after football, it will only hurt the bottom line. Consider the aforementioned XFL. It was a ratings bonanza in Week 1. However, a sub par product caused ratings to sink so far that Saturday night programming on PAX and UPN were outpacing the XFL. Yes, PAX was beating a live football game! It's no wonder the league bottomed out after one season.
The AAFL will also need to address fan bases in states outside of those hosting teams. The protected player rule extends for smaller states to include neighboring states. Team Arkansas, for example, can protect players from Oklahoma and Louisiana as well. However, while there are 11 players currently on the Arkansas roster from Louisiana, all five home games are being player in Little Rock. Honestly, there is little to no likelihood of any LSU fan driving to Little Rock to watch an AAFL game. Team Florida has the right idea. To galvanize their fan base throughout the entire state, games will be played in Jacksonville, Gainesville and Tampa. Arkansas should be open to playing home games in Baton Rouge and Stillwater as well. Don't designate fans for your team and then shun them.
The AAFL has potential. Any league willing to provide relief to football junkies in dark times of Spring is welcomed. It would be a shame to see poor planning send the AAFL into a tailspin and football junkies like myself back into withdrawals.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Don't Forget Chevis
The 2008 LSU Tigers football team will miss Glenn Dorsey. Claiming the Nagurski, Outland, Lott and Lombardi Awards along with being named to more All-American teams than G.I. Joe, Dorsey is easily the most decorated player in LSU history. His leadership is irreplaceable. His impact is unmistakable. The void left is immeasurable.
Next year's Tigers will also miss Jacob Hester. While fan favorites like Keiland Williams and Charles Scott watched from the sidelines, all Hester did was pace LSU's 11th ranked rushing offense with more than 1,100 yards during the '07 season. Les Miles has received mad props for shunning punts in fourth down situations five times against Florida. On four of those plays, Hester carried the ball along with his coach's reputation and his team's national title hopes, converting each time. Matt Flynn's pass to Demetrius Byrd in the final seconds against Auburn will be remembered as on of the greatest plays in LSU history, but it was Hester who picked up the blitzing linebacker, giving Flynn time to loft the final pass.
Ali Highsmith led the team in tackles. Matt Flynn waited his turn then gutted out an injury-plagued senior campaign to lead his team to the national title. Jonathan Zenon's interception return for a touchdown against Tennessee in the SEC Championship Game may be the catalyst that propelled LSU into the BCS National Championship Game. Craig Steltz was an All-American who had a knack for making big plays. They will all be missed as well.
None of them, however, will be missed as much as Chevis Jackson.
Seriously.
The LSU fans who are fretting about replacing Dorsey are likely the same purple-and-gold-clad worry warts who pondered how the Tigers would replace All-American Chad Lavalais after the 2003 season. Claude Wroten would do so nicely, becoming an All-American in his own right. Don't forget about All-SEC tackle Kyle Williams either. They both gave way to Dorsey. And Dorsey will give way to an uber-talented group featuring BCS Title Game defensive MVP, Ricky Jean-Francois, Marlon Favorite, Al Woods, Charles Alexander and a slew of others desperate to show what they can do.
While Hester was ultra-reliable during his four seasons in Baton Rouge (it still shocks me that Hester did not lose a fumble while Les Miles was coach), his numbers are replaceable. Even if Gary Crowton operates another running back by committee system, the aforementioned Williams and Scott along with speedsters Trindon Holliday and Richard Murphy will maintain the pace set by Hester. Remember, the O-Line will be even better next season with Carnell Stewart departing and likely giving way to talented freshman Joe Barksdale.
Headhunter Perry Riley, who impressed coaches with his motor on special teams, will replace Highsmith. A healthy Ryan Perrilloux will replace an injured Matt Flynn. Zenon should change his name to "picked-on" after QBs consistently threw his way. And Harry Coleman showed his promise when subbing for Steltz in the title game.
Which leaves Jackson. He served LSU with distinction as a three-year starter and even contributed in all twelve games as a true freshman. Jackson entered the 2007 season eighth in LSU history with 23 passes defended. He added 16 this season. That explains why Zenon became the target of so many offensive coordinator's game plans. They were all going away from Jackson. When they didn't he made them pay. His five interceptions in '07 were second only to Steltz's six. His most crucial INT coming in the national title game which set up Hester's 1 yard TD plunge giving LSU a 24-10 halftime lead.
True, LSU was faced with the same situation of replacing two NFL-caliber starting cornerbacks when Jackson and Zenon took over for Corey Webster and Travis Daniels, but they were a seasoned duo. Jackson played in each game as a true freshman while Zenon earned three starts before becoming the full-time starter in 2006. A talented crowd is waiting patiently for their turn to man the corners, but it's a green crowd as well.
Jai Eugene signed with LSU out of Destrehan but redshirted in 2006. Unfortunately, Euguene is better known for his towel-waving ability on the sidelines than for his play on the field. Most Tiger fans will remember a pass interference penalty that allowed Ohio State their "make it look good late" score in the title game. Eugene was covering (or mugging) Brian Robiskie on the play.
Chris Hawkins, Phelon Jonen, Stefon Francois and true freshman Patrick Johnson will all battle it out for playing time, but only Hawkins has earned a Letter.
The truth is, the '08 Tigers could mirror the '07 Florida Gators. After rising from the dead to win the national title with a senior quarterback and an experienced defense, Florida scored points in '07, but struggled to defend modest offenses. Even Troy hung 31 on the Gators in Gainesville. And guess who pays a visit to Baton Rouge this Sept. 6? Those same Trojans.
With running/passing phenom Ryan Perrilloux finally set to take the reins a-la Tim Tebow, with a developing group of talented receivers and thrilling skill players, LSU will score points. But when team drop back to pass against the Tigers, who will stop them?
The old saying goes, "You don't know what you've got until it's gone." Well, good ole reliable No. 21 is gone. And in 2008, LSU doesn't know what it's got.
So, thank you, Chevis. You may have been under appreciated while you were in Baton Rouge, but Tiger fans will be singing your praises in 2008. Too bad you'll be defending passes in the NFL instead of in Tiger Stadium.
The truth is, no one knows who will be doing that.
Next year's Tigers will also miss Jacob Hester. While fan favorites like Keiland Williams and Charles Scott watched from the sidelines, all Hester did was pace LSU's 11th ranked rushing offense with more than 1,100 yards during the '07 season. Les Miles has received mad props for shunning punts in fourth down situations five times against Florida. On four of those plays, Hester carried the ball along with his coach's reputation and his team's national title hopes, converting each time. Matt Flynn's pass to Demetrius Byrd in the final seconds against Auburn will be remembered as on of the greatest plays in LSU history, but it was Hester who picked up the blitzing linebacker, giving Flynn time to loft the final pass.
Ali Highsmith led the team in tackles. Matt Flynn waited his turn then gutted out an injury-plagued senior campaign to lead his team to the national title. Jonathan Zenon's interception return for a touchdown against Tennessee in the SEC Championship Game may be the catalyst that propelled LSU into the BCS National Championship Game. Craig Steltz was an All-American who had a knack for making big plays. They will all be missed as well.
None of them, however, will be missed as much as Chevis Jackson.
Seriously.
The LSU fans who are fretting about replacing Dorsey are likely the same purple-and-gold-clad worry warts who pondered how the Tigers would replace All-American Chad Lavalais after the 2003 season. Claude Wroten would do so nicely, becoming an All-American in his own right. Don't forget about All-SEC tackle Kyle Williams either. They both gave way to Dorsey. And Dorsey will give way to an uber-talented group featuring BCS Title Game defensive MVP, Ricky Jean-Francois, Marlon Favorite, Al Woods, Charles Alexander and a slew of others desperate to show what they can do.
While Hester was ultra-reliable during his four seasons in Baton Rouge (it still shocks me that Hester did not lose a fumble while Les Miles was coach), his numbers are replaceable. Even if Gary Crowton operates another running back by committee system, the aforementioned Williams and Scott along with speedsters Trindon Holliday and Richard Murphy will maintain the pace set by Hester. Remember, the O-Line will be even better next season with Carnell Stewart departing and likely giving way to talented freshman Joe Barksdale.
Headhunter Perry Riley, who impressed coaches with his motor on special teams, will replace Highsmith. A healthy Ryan Perrilloux will replace an injured Matt Flynn. Zenon should change his name to "picked-on" after QBs consistently threw his way. And Harry Coleman showed his promise when subbing for Steltz in the title game.
Which leaves Jackson. He served LSU with distinction as a three-year starter and even contributed in all twelve games as a true freshman. Jackson entered the 2007 season eighth in LSU history with 23 passes defended. He added 16 this season. That explains why Zenon became the target of so many offensive coordinator's game plans. They were all going away from Jackson. When they didn't he made them pay. His five interceptions in '07 were second only to Steltz's six. His most crucial INT coming in the national title game which set up Hester's 1 yard TD plunge giving LSU a 24-10 halftime lead.
True, LSU was faced with the same situation of replacing two NFL-caliber starting cornerbacks when Jackson and Zenon took over for Corey Webster and Travis Daniels, but they were a seasoned duo. Jackson played in each game as a true freshman while Zenon earned three starts before becoming the full-time starter in 2006. A talented crowd is waiting patiently for their turn to man the corners, but it's a green crowd as well.
Jai Eugene signed with LSU out of Destrehan but redshirted in 2006. Unfortunately, Euguene is better known for his towel-waving ability on the sidelines than for his play on the field. Most Tiger fans will remember a pass interference penalty that allowed Ohio State their "make it look good late" score in the title game. Eugene was covering (or mugging) Brian Robiskie on the play.
Chris Hawkins, Phelon Jonen, Stefon Francois and true freshman Patrick Johnson will all battle it out for playing time, but only Hawkins has earned a Letter.
The truth is, the '08 Tigers could mirror the '07 Florida Gators. After rising from the dead to win the national title with a senior quarterback and an experienced defense, Florida scored points in '07, but struggled to defend modest offenses. Even Troy hung 31 on the Gators in Gainesville. And guess who pays a visit to Baton Rouge this Sept. 6? Those same Trojans.
With running/passing phenom Ryan Perrilloux finally set to take the reins a-la Tim Tebow, with a developing group of talented receivers and thrilling skill players, LSU will score points. But when team drop back to pass against the Tigers, who will stop them?
The old saying goes, "You don't know what you've got until it's gone." Well, good ole reliable No. 21 is gone. And in 2008, LSU doesn't know what it's got.
So, thank you, Chevis. You may have been under appreciated while you were in Baton Rouge, but Tiger fans will be singing your praises in 2008. Too bad you'll be defending passes in the NFL instead of in Tiger Stadium.
The truth is, no one knows who will be doing that.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Bless You ... Coach O?
When the good Lord lent the nickname "Saints" to the New Orleans NFL franchise back in 1967, surely this is not what he envisioned. Sean Payton has expressed interest in hiring embattled former Ole Miss head coach Ed Orgeron to coach the Saints defensive line for the 2008 season.
Yes, that Ed Orgeron. The same Ed Orgeron whose advertisement of a Hummer dealership sparked this YouTube sensation. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX7wzhMvbzo
And this parody. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nACZJ5x_wBY
Simply put, Coach O is a j-O-ke.
Sure Orgeron played college football for Northwestern State. Those would be the Deamons of Nacthitoches, La., not the Wildcats of Evanston, Il. Never mind that his route to Northwestern St. required a pit stop at LSU. Orgeron lasted only one practice in Baton Rouge before quitting the team and bolting for less developed pastures. But that was in the early '80s.
From '88-'92 Coach O served as the defensive line coach for mighty Miami Hurricanes. During that span, the Canes won two national championships while Orgeron coached Outland Trophy winner and first overall NFL draft choice Russell Maryland. It was also during that stint in Miami that Orgeron was sentenced to a 26-week domestic violence counseling program for an incident involving a woman in Dade County. Shortly thereafter, Orgeron was arrested and charged with second-degree battery after a fight at a Baton Rouge bar. The charges were later dropped.
Despite his off-the-field issues, Orgeron continued experiencing success on the gridiron. After three solid years coaching defensive line at Syracuse, Coach O joined the staff of another dynasty-in-the-making at Southern California. As assistant head coach from 1998 to 2004, Coach O also served as recruiting coordinator and maintained his duties with the D-Line. USC's success during that period is well-documented: two national titles, two Heisman trophy winners (Reggie Bush, who Orgeron recruited, would win it the following season) and 2004 National Recruiter of the Year honors. that notoriety earned Orgeron his first head coaching job at Ole Miss.
Those three years would be among the worst in Rebels history.
Not only did Orgeron's teams win a putrid 10 games combined over three seasons. Not only did Orgeron oversee an 0-8 SEC record in 2007. Not only was a school's proud tradition smeared when a mere 23,283 showed up at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium to watch the Rebels defeat O's Alma mater. Ole Miss also had to shoulder the embarrassment of Coach O's attempted piracy of Tulane University players after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans.
An now, Coach O is hoping to return to the city he insulted after the worst natural disaster in the history of the United States. "If that opportunity would come," said Orgeron, "I would be very favorable to coach for the Saints. There's no doubt about that."
The opportunity has come. Saints defensive line coach Marion Hobby has left the franchise to join David Cutcliffe's staff at Duke. If Payton is looking for someone to rip off his shirt in team meetings to rally the troops, Orgeron could be his guy. But, with that fiery attitude also comes embarrassment.
As Coach O has proven with every coaching opportunity he has been given, he lacks the maturity to maintain such a high profile position. If it's bar fights and bedlam Payton wants, Coach O is his man. If running a first class professional organization with the integrity exemplified by the name on the jersey, maybe Payton should go another route.
He can even take a Hummer to get there.
Yes, that Ed Orgeron. The same Ed Orgeron whose advertisement of a Hummer dealership sparked this YouTube sensation. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX7wzhMvbzo
And this parody. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nACZJ5x_wBY
Simply put, Coach O is a j-O-ke.
Sure Orgeron played college football for Northwestern State. Those would be the Deamons of Nacthitoches, La., not the Wildcats of Evanston, Il. Never mind that his route to Northwestern St. required a pit stop at LSU. Orgeron lasted only one practice in Baton Rouge before quitting the team and bolting for less developed pastures. But that was in the early '80s.
From '88-'92 Coach O served as the defensive line coach for mighty Miami Hurricanes. During that span, the Canes won two national championships while Orgeron coached Outland Trophy winner and first overall NFL draft choice Russell Maryland. It was also during that stint in Miami that Orgeron was sentenced to a 26-week domestic violence counseling program for an incident involving a woman in Dade County. Shortly thereafter, Orgeron was arrested and charged with second-degree battery after a fight at a Baton Rouge bar. The charges were later dropped.
Despite his off-the-field issues, Orgeron continued experiencing success on the gridiron. After three solid years coaching defensive line at Syracuse, Coach O joined the staff of another dynasty-in-the-making at Southern California. As assistant head coach from 1998 to 2004, Coach O also served as recruiting coordinator and maintained his duties with the D-Line. USC's success during that period is well-documented: two national titles, two Heisman trophy winners (Reggie Bush, who Orgeron recruited, would win it the following season) and 2004 National Recruiter of the Year honors. that notoriety earned Orgeron his first head coaching job at Ole Miss.
Those three years would be among the worst in Rebels history.
Not only did Orgeron's teams win a putrid 10 games combined over three seasons. Not only did Orgeron oversee an 0-8 SEC record in 2007. Not only was a school's proud tradition smeared when a mere 23,283 showed up at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium to watch the Rebels defeat O's Alma mater. Ole Miss also had to shoulder the embarrassment of Coach O's attempted piracy of Tulane University players after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans.
An now, Coach O is hoping to return to the city he insulted after the worst natural disaster in the history of the United States. "If that opportunity would come," said Orgeron, "I would be very favorable to coach for the Saints. There's no doubt about that."
The opportunity has come. Saints defensive line coach Marion Hobby has left the franchise to join David Cutcliffe's staff at Duke. If Payton is looking for someone to rip off his shirt in team meetings to rally the troops, Orgeron could be his guy. But, with that fiery attitude also comes embarrassment.
As Coach O has proven with every coaching opportunity he has been given, he lacks the maturity to maintain such a high profile position. If it's bar fights and bedlam Payton wants, Coach O is his man. If running a first class professional organization with the integrity exemplified by the name on the jersey, maybe Payton should go another route.
He can even take a Hummer to get there.
Monday, January 21, 2008
I Hate Lawrence Tynes and You Should Too
Football fans were thisclose to witnessing the greatest Super Bowl match up ever. Yes, ever. One one hand, the New England Patriots. The greatest team in NFL history. 18-0. Brady. Moss. The Hoodie. Seeking perfection.
On the other, the Green Bay Packers. The most storied franchise in NFL history. Favre. Lombardi. Lambeau Field. Seeking a Super upset that would rival Broadway Joe's guarantee.
Instead, we have a blowout in the making featuring the New York Giants led by Manning Light, and it's all thanks to Lawrence Tynes. Lawrence Freaking Tynes!
As giddy as I was in thanking Eli Manning for defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round and giving football fans the opportunity to watch Favre in another championship game at Lambeau, I am equally as appalled at Tynes. Lawrence Tynes.
With the Pats already clinching a spot in Super Bowl XLII, it was Tynes who set up a Super Bowl blowout by drilling a 47 yard field goal in overtime to defeat the Packers in Sunday's NFC Championship Game.
There are those that will blame Favre's two interceptions (the crucial one coming on the Pack's first OT possession). Others will point to Green Bay's inability to run the ball (28 yards on the evening). Still others will credit Eli Manning's error-free play (no INTs for the third straight game). Not me. I blame Tynes.
Where does this guy get off channeling his inner Adam Vinatieri and forsaking his inner Scott Norwood? To say his game-winner was a "clutch kick" is akin to saying Tiger Woods is a "good golfer". Let us not forget, mere minutes before the 47 yard gem, Tynes drew the ire of his frosty-faced coach and devastated his frozen teammates by hooking a 36 yard chip shot on the last play of regulation.
True, Tynes got the scoring started with figgies of 29 and 37 yards to pace the G-Men to an early 6-0 lead. But, this is a four year pro who went undrafted out of Troy. He's a career 79% field goal kicker. His long on the season was only 48 yards. And that wasn't in weather that would make an polar bear shiver. Oh, and did we mention there was a trip to the Super Bowl on the line as well?
"I screwed it up twice," said Tynes after the game. "Thank God we got another opportunity." Oh, I forgot to mention, Tynes also missed a 46 yarder with under seven minutes to play.
And so, as the collective football universe grimaces at the thought of yet another anything-but-Super Sunday we have Lawrence Tynes to thank -- or blame. The last hope of ending the Pats perfection are the New York Giants. The same Giants who lost twice to Dallas in the regular season. The same Giants that were trounced by the Vikings at home, 41-17. The same Giants that were throttled by the Packers in Week 2 and the Patriots in the season finale.
The same Giants who claim Lawrence Tynes as their kicker.
Lawrence Freaking Tynes.
On the other, the Green Bay Packers. The most storied franchise in NFL history. Favre. Lombardi. Lambeau Field. Seeking a Super upset that would rival Broadway Joe's guarantee.
Instead, we have a blowout in the making featuring the New York Giants led by Manning Light, and it's all thanks to Lawrence Tynes. Lawrence Freaking Tynes!
As giddy as I was in thanking Eli Manning for defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round and giving football fans the opportunity to watch Favre in another championship game at Lambeau, I am equally as appalled at Tynes. Lawrence Tynes.
With the Pats already clinching a spot in Super Bowl XLII, it was Tynes who set up a Super Bowl blowout by drilling a 47 yard field goal in overtime to defeat the Packers in Sunday's NFC Championship Game.
There are those that will blame Favre's two interceptions (the crucial one coming on the Pack's first OT possession). Others will point to Green Bay's inability to run the ball (28 yards on the evening). Still others will credit Eli Manning's error-free play (no INTs for the third straight game). Not me. I blame Tynes.
Where does this guy get off channeling his inner Adam Vinatieri and forsaking his inner Scott Norwood? To say his game-winner was a "clutch kick" is akin to saying Tiger Woods is a "good golfer". Let us not forget, mere minutes before the 47 yard gem, Tynes drew the ire of his frosty-faced coach and devastated his frozen teammates by hooking a 36 yard chip shot on the last play of regulation.
True, Tynes got the scoring started with figgies of 29 and 37 yards to pace the G-Men to an early 6-0 lead. But, this is a four year pro who went undrafted out of Troy. He's a career 79% field goal kicker. His long on the season was only 48 yards. And that wasn't in weather that would make an polar bear shiver. Oh, and did we mention there was a trip to the Super Bowl on the line as well?
"I screwed it up twice," said Tynes after the game. "Thank God we got another opportunity." Oh, I forgot to mention, Tynes also missed a 46 yarder with under seven minutes to play.
And so, as the collective football universe grimaces at the thought of yet another anything-but-Super Sunday we have Lawrence Tynes to thank -- or blame. The last hope of ending the Pats perfection are the New York Giants. The same Giants who lost twice to Dallas in the regular season. The same Giants that were trounced by the Vikings at home, 41-17. The same Giants that were throttled by the Packers in Week 2 and the Patriots in the season finale.
The same Giants who claim Lawrence Tynes as their kicker.
Lawrence Freaking Tynes.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Time To Retire
It is becoming more and more difficult to discuss the ever-growing debacle that is the 2007-2008 LSU basketball season. Seriously, trying to explain blowing double-digit leads at home to inferior opponents has become repetitive (the latest a 17-point advantage over hapless Auburn). As so often happens when things are not going well in any facet of life, thoughts tend to drift to memories of a happier time. That happened on my radio program today.
Callers shared fond memories of "Pistol" Pete Maravich playing junior varsity games in front of standing-room-only crowds at LSU's Cow Palace only to have the crowds melt away when the varsity took the court. Others recollected Dale Brown's two Final Four seasons in the 1980s while others discussed the disappointment of talent-laden teams with the likes of Shaquille O'Neal, Stanley Roberts and Chris Jackson failing to reach their potential in NCAA Tournament play.
Yet somehow, the discussion evolved into a broader issue: LSU's seeming unwillingness to honor its former stars; in particular, why former basketball All-American Rudy Macklin's jersey is not hanging from the rafters of the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
Macklin signed with LSU out of Louisville, Kentucky, and arrived on campus in Baton Rouge in 1976. The 1981 Final Four team that Macklin led is often considered one of the most talented teams in NCAA history to not win the national championship. I am not old enough to jog personal memories of Macklin's playing days at LSU, but I will certainly defer to those who call him the most influential LSU basketball player of his era. But, when it comes to Macklin's jersey being retired, I can't help but think of the company he would keep high above the court in the PMAC. Only Pete Maravich, Bob Pettit and Shaquille O'Neal have earned the honor of having their jersey numbers retired from the LSU basketball program. Macklin may have been the most distinguished LSU baller of his era, but he does not hold the same distinction as the three men already honored by LSU.
The discussion of Macklin, however, led me to consider which former LSU athletes most deserve to have their numbers retired from their respective sport. Before I list my nominees, here is a quick refresher of those who are honored by LSU:
Football:
No. 20 - Billy Cannon. LSU's lone Heisman Trophy winner had his number retired following the 1959 season. Cannon's is the only football number retired by LSU.
Basketball:
No. 23 - Pete Maravich. The man whom LSU's current basketball facility is named after still holds the NCAA scoring lead with a 44.2 points per game average. Had Pistol Pete had the benefit of a three-point line, experts estimate he would have averaged closer to 57 points per game.
No. 33 - Shaquille O'Neal. The most dominant basketball player of his era, O'Neal was a two-time All-American and the National Player of the Year in 1991. Shaq was the first overall selection in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic.
No. 50 - Bob Pettit. In 1954, Pettit became the first LSU athlete in any sport to have his number retired. Pettit was a three-time All-SEC selection and two-time All-American. He led LSU to its first Final Four and led the SEC is scoring three consecutive seasons.
Baseball: (Wall of Honor)
No. 15 - Skip Bertman. The architect of college's baseball's last true dynasty, Bertman led LSU to five national championships in a ten year span. He retired from coaching following the 2001 season.
No. 19 - Ben McDonald. "Big Ben" was college baseball's most dominant pitcher in the late 1980s. McDonald won the 1989 Golden Spikes Award given to the nation's top amateur baseball player. He also still holds LSU's career strikeout mark. He was the first player taken in the 1989 amateur draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
No. 19 - Robbie Smith. Smith, an All-SEC pitcher in 1985, was honored posthumously after his death in 1997. While working as a member of the Florida Highway Patrol, a driver slammed his car into Smith's parked police cruiser, killing him instantly. Smith was a 1985 team captain.
No. 31 - Wally Pontiff. Pontiff was a three-year letterman who died suddenly in the summer of 2002 prior to his senior season at LSU. Despite only playing three seasons, Pontiff remains in the top 10 all-time in hits, batting average and doubles at LSU.
Clearly, LSU has been uber-selective when it comes to bestowing the honor of retiring a player's jersey number in any sport. Here are a few names that I believe should be honored as well:
Football:
No. 3 - Kevin Faulk. Simply put, Faulk is the greatest skill player LSU has seen since Billy Cannon. Faulk arrived at LSU in 1995 and immediately earned the starting job at running back. When he left Baton Rouge, Faulk has rewritten the LSU and SEC record books. His 6,833 career all-purpose yards rank first in SEC history and fifth in NCAA history. Faulk also holds LSU records in every major rushing category including career rushing yards, yards-per-rush average, yards-per-game average, career rushing touchdowns and career 1,000 yard seasons. Faulk was inducted into the LSU Hall of Fame in 2006.
Baseball:
No. 12 - Todd Walker. Walker is the most decorated player in LSU baseball history. In 1992, Walker became the first LSU baseball player to ever complete a season with a .400 batting average and was named National Freshman of the Year. In 1993, Walker completed his sophomore season with a .395 batting average and LSU's second national championship. He was the runner-up for the Golden Spikes Award and was named the MVP of the College World Series. Walker left LSU after the 1994 season as the SEC's all-time leader in hits, RBI, runs scored and total bases. He finished as the runner-up for the Golden Spikes Award for the second consecutive year.
Women's Basketball:
No. 33 - Seimone Augustus. LSU athletic director Skip Bertman called her the most important recruit in LSU history. Simply put, Augustus made LSU fans care about women's basketball. The Baton Rouge native was a three-time All-American, twice was named the National Player of the Year and led LSU to three consecutive Final Four appearances. Augustus was the first overall selection of the 2006 WNBA Draft.
Retiring a jersey number is the greatest individual honor a university or team can bestow on an individual athlete, and I certainly would not want to dilute that importance with "great" athletes instead of once-in-a-lifetime athletes.. I have long supported LSU's stringent policy when it comes to this distinction. The list of names honored by LSU is a short one. But, it's time it grew a little.
Callers shared fond memories of "Pistol" Pete Maravich playing junior varsity games in front of standing-room-only crowds at LSU's Cow Palace only to have the crowds melt away when the varsity took the court. Others recollected Dale Brown's two Final Four seasons in the 1980s while others discussed the disappointment of talent-laden teams with the likes of Shaquille O'Neal, Stanley Roberts and Chris Jackson failing to reach their potential in NCAA Tournament play.
Yet somehow, the discussion evolved into a broader issue: LSU's seeming unwillingness to honor its former stars; in particular, why former basketball All-American Rudy Macklin's jersey is not hanging from the rafters of the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
Macklin signed with LSU out of Louisville, Kentucky, and arrived on campus in Baton Rouge in 1976. The 1981 Final Four team that Macklin led is often considered one of the most talented teams in NCAA history to not win the national championship. I am not old enough to jog personal memories of Macklin's playing days at LSU, but I will certainly defer to those who call him the most influential LSU basketball player of his era. But, when it comes to Macklin's jersey being retired, I can't help but think of the company he would keep high above the court in the PMAC. Only Pete Maravich, Bob Pettit and Shaquille O'Neal have earned the honor of having their jersey numbers retired from the LSU basketball program. Macklin may have been the most distinguished LSU baller of his era, but he does not hold the same distinction as the three men already honored by LSU.
The discussion of Macklin, however, led me to consider which former LSU athletes most deserve to have their numbers retired from their respective sport. Before I list my nominees, here is a quick refresher of those who are honored by LSU:
Football:
No. 20 - Billy Cannon. LSU's lone Heisman Trophy winner had his number retired following the 1959 season. Cannon's is the only football number retired by LSU.
Basketball:
No. 23 - Pete Maravich. The man whom LSU's current basketball facility is named after still holds the NCAA scoring lead with a 44.2 points per game average. Had Pistol Pete had the benefit of a three-point line, experts estimate he would have averaged closer to 57 points per game.
No. 33 - Shaquille O'Neal. The most dominant basketball player of his era, O'Neal was a two-time All-American and the National Player of the Year in 1991. Shaq was the first overall selection in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic.
No. 50 - Bob Pettit. In 1954, Pettit became the first LSU athlete in any sport to have his number retired. Pettit was a three-time All-SEC selection and two-time All-American. He led LSU to its first Final Four and led the SEC is scoring three consecutive seasons.
Baseball: (Wall of Honor)
No. 15 - Skip Bertman. The architect of college's baseball's last true dynasty, Bertman led LSU to five national championships in a ten year span. He retired from coaching following the 2001 season.
No. 19 - Ben McDonald. "Big Ben" was college baseball's most dominant pitcher in the late 1980s. McDonald won the 1989 Golden Spikes Award given to the nation's top amateur baseball player. He also still holds LSU's career strikeout mark. He was the first player taken in the 1989 amateur draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
No. 19 - Robbie Smith. Smith, an All-SEC pitcher in 1985, was honored posthumously after his death in 1997. While working as a member of the Florida Highway Patrol, a driver slammed his car into Smith's parked police cruiser, killing him instantly. Smith was a 1985 team captain.
No. 31 - Wally Pontiff. Pontiff was a three-year letterman who died suddenly in the summer of 2002 prior to his senior season at LSU. Despite only playing three seasons, Pontiff remains in the top 10 all-time in hits, batting average and doubles at LSU.
Clearly, LSU has been uber-selective when it comes to bestowing the honor of retiring a player's jersey number in any sport. Here are a few names that I believe should be honored as well:
Football:
No. 3 - Kevin Faulk. Simply put, Faulk is the greatest skill player LSU has seen since Billy Cannon. Faulk arrived at LSU in 1995 and immediately earned the starting job at running back. When he left Baton Rouge, Faulk has rewritten the LSU and SEC record books. His 6,833 career all-purpose yards rank first in SEC history and fifth in NCAA history. Faulk also holds LSU records in every major rushing category including career rushing yards, yards-per-rush average, yards-per-game average, career rushing touchdowns and career 1,000 yard seasons. Faulk was inducted into the LSU Hall of Fame in 2006.
Baseball:
No. 12 - Todd Walker. Walker is the most decorated player in LSU baseball history. In 1992, Walker became the first LSU baseball player to ever complete a season with a .400 batting average and was named National Freshman of the Year. In 1993, Walker completed his sophomore season with a .395 batting average and LSU's second national championship. He was the runner-up for the Golden Spikes Award and was named the MVP of the College World Series. Walker left LSU after the 1994 season as the SEC's all-time leader in hits, RBI, runs scored and total bases. He finished as the runner-up for the Golden Spikes Award for the second consecutive year.
Women's Basketball:
No. 33 - Seimone Augustus. LSU athletic director Skip Bertman called her the most important recruit in LSU history. Simply put, Augustus made LSU fans care about women's basketball. The Baton Rouge native was a three-time All-American, twice was named the National Player of the Year and led LSU to three consecutive Final Four appearances. Augustus was the first overall selection of the 2006 WNBA Draft.
Retiring a jersey number is the greatest individual honor a university or team can bestow on an individual athlete, and I certainly would not want to dilute that importance with "great" athletes instead of once-in-a-lifetime athletes.. I have long supported LSU's stringent policy when it comes to this distinction. The list of names honored by LSU is a short one. But, it's time it grew a little.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
O'Keefe Out at LSU
Typically, this column is reserved for my opinions on sports-related topics. Today, however, I am going to take the liberty of expressing my opinion on an upsetting development at my Alma mater, Louisiana State University. Chancellor Sean O'Keefe -- a man whom the LSU community has grown to respect and admire -- has announced his resignation from that post effective February 1st. In the statement released earlier today, O'Keefe hinted at the reason for his resignation: "It is evident to me that LSU needs a campus leader who enjoys the full confidence of the board and the president."
The truth is, all of the facts are still not known as to what exactly was said in leading up to this untimely event. O'Keefe is in the fourth year of the five year contract he signed when Mark Emmert left LSU for the University of Washington. While O'Keefe's statement would lead an intuitive person to believe a lack of support from System President John Lombardi and the LSU Board of Supervisors are to blame, I am not prepared to point the finger at anyone just yet, but will instead focus on what positives O'Keefe has accomplished since his arrival at LSU.
After discussing this topic on my radio program in Baton Rouge today, I received the following e-mail from a listener named Mark:
Matt,
I haven't worked for O'Keefe, but I personally know people who do and they all wonder what took so long. I have been told he serves on the board of directors of 12 corporations and is never in his office when he is needed. I have also been told he doesn't make any decisions and defers to others. He was also running NASA during the two shuttle disasters. Lombardi apparently is cleaning house and wanting a chancellor who wants to run the university. You mentioned what a good job he has done and my question to you is "What has O'Keefe instituted on his own, not just maintained what Emmeret started"?
Mark
Every point Mark makes is valid. I think the key to remember is perception. There are plenty of different ways to lead successfully. Look at the two previous LSU football coaches. Nick Saban was a demanding control freak who often times was conservative offensively, while Les Miles is more personable and risky. Both won national championships. To determine which is better is merely a matter of perception.
As for O'Keefe, some may look at his other obligations as a distraction from his job as Chancellor. I view it as a tremendous coup to have a Chancellor who is so highly sought after in the public sector. Think of the networking potential for LSU when our Chancellor is affiliated with some of the wealthiest, most powerful companies in the country. As for Mark's friends -- let's be honest -- who doesn't criticize their boss? If Lombardi has a "Saban" and wants a "Miles" that's his prerogative. And it's my right to disagree with him. How many football fans still question Miles as head coach even now?
Also, attempting to blame O'Keefe for the shuttle disasters is a horrendous low blow and displacement of blame for a disaster that, in all truthfulness, had very little, if anything, to do with the man running NASA. If you want to blame someone for a tragedy, blame the technicians on the ground who failed to properly inspect Columbia before it departed. Or how about a little blame on Lockheed Martin (a Louisiana company) who manufactured the foam that broke off, causing the disintegration upon reentry? Blaming O'Keefe for Columbia is like blaming President Bush for 9-11 or Skip Bertman for LSU's loss to Kentucky this year. After all, he DID hire the coach that lost the game.
In my opinion, O'Keefe did a tremendous job lobbying the Louisiana Legislature as state funding for the University has increased since he's arrived. Maybe it takes a politician to lobby successfully more so than an academic. I recall during my final year at LSU, funding in the MassComm department was so low that all of my exams were taken on overhead projectors because professors didn't have the funding to print hundreds of copies of tests on paper (seriously). Moreover, O'Keefe has done an admirable job fundraising privately and carrying on the Flagship Agenda set forth by Emmert. This has been demonstrated by the continuous increase in admission standards met by incoming classes during O'Keefe's tenure. Perhaps most importantly, he represented the University and the state with class and dignity.
There are also those who argue that O'Keefe has no business running a university since he is not an academic. True, O'Keefe does not possess prior university experience, but allow me to pose this question: who would you rather have running your university, an aeronautics professor, or the man who ran NASA? I know who I would choose.
My feelings today are best expressed and shared by former LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Stewart Slack who said, “I think it’s a tragedy. It’s just a real shame for the university.” It's a University that I will continue to love and support in any way I can, but on this day, I shake my head in disappointed disbelief.
The truth is, all of the facts are still not known as to what exactly was said in leading up to this untimely event. O'Keefe is in the fourth year of the five year contract he signed when Mark Emmert left LSU for the University of Washington. While O'Keefe's statement would lead an intuitive person to believe a lack of support from System President John Lombardi and the LSU Board of Supervisors are to blame, I am not prepared to point the finger at anyone just yet, but will instead focus on what positives O'Keefe has accomplished since his arrival at LSU.
After discussing this topic on my radio program in Baton Rouge today, I received the following e-mail from a listener named Mark:
Matt,
I haven't worked for O'Keefe, but I personally know people who do and they all wonder what took so long. I have been told he serves on the board of directors of 12 corporations and is never in his office when he is needed. I have also been told he doesn't make any decisions and defers to others. He was also running NASA during the two shuttle disasters. Lombardi apparently is cleaning house and wanting a chancellor who wants to run the university. You mentioned what a good job he has done and my question to you is "What has O'Keefe instituted on his own, not just maintained what Emmeret started"?
Mark
Every point Mark makes is valid. I think the key to remember is perception. There are plenty of different ways to lead successfully. Look at the two previous LSU football coaches. Nick Saban was a demanding control freak who often times was conservative offensively, while Les Miles is more personable and risky. Both won national championships. To determine which is better is merely a matter of perception.
As for O'Keefe, some may look at his other obligations as a distraction from his job as Chancellor. I view it as a tremendous coup to have a Chancellor who is so highly sought after in the public sector. Think of the networking potential for LSU when our Chancellor is affiliated with some of the wealthiest, most powerful companies in the country. As for Mark's friends -- let's be honest -- who doesn't criticize their boss? If Lombardi has a "Saban" and wants a "Miles" that's his prerogative. And it's my right to disagree with him. How many football fans still question Miles as head coach even now?
Also, attempting to blame O'Keefe for the shuttle disasters is a horrendous low blow and displacement of blame for a disaster that, in all truthfulness, had very little, if anything, to do with the man running NASA. If you want to blame someone for a tragedy, blame the technicians on the ground who failed to properly inspect Columbia before it departed. Or how about a little blame on Lockheed Martin (a Louisiana company) who manufactured the foam that broke off, causing the disintegration upon reentry? Blaming O'Keefe for Columbia is like blaming President Bush for 9-11 or Skip Bertman for LSU's loss to Kentucky this year. After all, he DID hire the coach that lost the game.
In my opinion, O'Keefe did a tremendous job lobbying the Louisiana Legislature as state funding for the University has increased since he's arrived. Maybe it takes a politician to lobby successfully more so than an academic. I recall during my final year at LSU, funding in the MassComm department was so low that all of my exams were taken on overhead projectors because professors didn't have the funding to print hundreds of copies of tests on paper (seriously). Moreover, O'Keefe has done an admirable job fundraising privately and carrying on the Flagship Agenda set forth by Emmert. This has been demonstrated by the continuous increase in admission standards met by incoming classes during O'Keefe's tenure. Perhaps most importantly, he represented the University and the state with class and dignity.
There are also those who argue that O'Keefe has no business running a university since he is not an academic. True, O'Keefe does not possess prior university experience, but allow me to pose this question: who would you rather have running your university, an aeronautics professor, or the man who ran NASA? I know who I would choose.
My feelings today are best expressed and shared by former LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Stewart Slack who said, “I think it’s a tragedy. It’s just a real shame for the university.” It's a University that I will continue to love and support in any way I can, but on this day, I shake my head in disappointed disbelief.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
"Cheater" Blades
I hope this doesn't come across as cruel. Then again, lobbying against a double-amputee at face value will seem cruel to almost anyone with a soul. In the case of sprinter Oscar Pistorius, however, I believe it's warranted.
Despite his absolutely breathtaking physical accomplishments, I simply cannot support Pistorius's present plight -- attempting to earn a spot in the 2008 Beijing Olympics on the South African track and field team. While human nature leads us to encourage a man who has overcome having both legs amputated from just below the knee to become a world-class sprinter, in this case, maybe we shouldn't applaud him just yet. The IAAF -- track and field's world governing body -- has ruled that the prosthetics that Pistorius wears give him a clear and competitive advantage over able-bodied runners. And I believe such an advantage should disqualify Pistorius from competing this Summer.
Admittedly, it seems silly that a man who has lived all but 11 months of his life without half of his legs could have any type of advantage over a sprinter with two working poles; however, science tells us this is so. And the advantage comes from the "Cheetah Blades" that Pistorius wears when he runs. When the sprinter first petitioned to be eligible to compete in Beijing in 2008, the IAAF commissioned German professor Gert-Peter Brueggemann to test the blades for a mechanical edge. Brueggemann determined the prosthetics could provide Pistorius as much as a 30% advantage over other competitors. No other athlete is any other sport would be allowed a 30% mechanical edge over his adversaries in any circumstances. I don't feel this one should be any different.
Pistorius has gone on record saying the test was done "very professionally" by Professor Brueggeman, but still maintains he has no advantage. The company which makes the prosthetics supports that claim, and Pistorius has committed to proving that assertion through independent studies in hopes of appealing the IAAF's ruling. Even if the ruling is overturned, Pistorius would have to shave 0.8 seconds to meet the South African qualifying time for the Beijing Games.
It is a bit coincidental that on the same day of the IAAF's ruling, thousands of miles away, Major League Baseball's hierarchy was testifying at a Congressional hearing dealing with the use of illegal performance enhancers. While steroid users are clearly trying to cheat the game and the Cheetah Blades are merely allowing Pistorius to compete at all, science has proven that both provide it's user with a competitive advantage. The entire purpose of baseball's steroid crackdown is to level the playing field and restore the integrity of the game. I would argue that the governing body of a sport that doesn't acknowledge record-breaking times when there is a stiff breeze is merely trying to accomplish the same thing.
Oscar Pistorius is an inspiration to many. He is a man who has accomplished more without the use of his legs than many of us with two good legs could ever dream of. Pistorius serves as an example to humankind that anything truly is possible. There is even a place where Pistorius and others who share the same afflictions and equal zest for life can compete. Pistorius belongs in the Paralympic Games. He should spend the Summer of 2008 in Beijing, but he should spend it defending the 200 meter crown he won at the 2004 Athens Paralympic games.
While those Cheetah Blades have allowed Pistorius a chance to accomplish physical feats the world can marvel at, when used in competition against able-bodied athletes, they are nothing more than "Cheater" Blades.
Despite his absolutely breathtaking physical accomplishments, I simply cannot support Pistorius's present plight -- attempting to earn a spot in the 2008 Beijing Olympics on the South African track and field team. While human nature leads us to encourage a man who has overcome having both legs amputated from just below the knee to become a world-class sprinter, in this case, maybe we shouldn't applaud him just yet. The IAAF -- track and field's world governing body -- has ruled that the prosthetics that Pistorius wears give him a clear and competitive advantage over able-bodied runners. And I believe such an advantage should disqualify Pistorius from competing this Summer.
Admittedly, it seems silly that a man who has lived all but 11 months of his life without half of his legs could have any type of advantage over a sprinter with two working poles; however, science tells us this is so. And the advantage comes from the "Cheetah Blades" that Pistorius wears when he runs. When the sprinter first petitioned to be eligible to compete in Beijing in 2008, the IAAF commissioned German professor Gert-Peter Brueggemann to test the blades for a mechanical edge. Brueggemann determined the prosthetics could provide Pistorius as much as a 30% advantage over other competitors. No other athlete is any other sport would be allowed a 30% mechanical edge over his adversaries in any circumstances. I don't feel this one should be any different.
Pistorius has gone on record saying the test was done "very professionally" by Professor Brueggeman, but still maintains he has no advantage. The company which makes the prosthetics supports that claim, and Pistorius has committed to proving that assertion through independent studies in hopes of appealing the IAAF's ruling. Even if the ruling is overturned, Pistorius would have to shave 0.8 seconds to meet the South African qualifying time for the Beijing Games.
It is a bit coincidental that on the same day of the IAAF's ruling, thousands of miles away, Major League Baseball's hierarchy was testifying at a Congressional hearing dealing with the use of illegal performance enhancers. While steroid users are clearly trying to cheat the game and the Cheetah Blades are merely allowing Pistorius to compete at all, science has proven that both provide it's user with a competitive advantage. The entire purpose of baseball's steroid crackdown is to level the playing field and restore the integrity of the game. I would argue that the governing body of a sport that doesn't acknowledge record-breaking times when there is a stiff breeze is merely trying to accomplish the same thing.
Oscar Pistorius is an inspiration to many. He is a man who has accomplished more without the use of his legs than many of us with two good legs could ever dream of. Pistorius serves as an example to humankind that anything truly is possible. There is even a place where Pistorius and others who share the same afflictions and equal zest for life can compete. Pistorius belongs in the Paralympic Games. He should spend the Summer of 2008 in Beijing, but he should spend it defending the 200 meter crown he won at the 2004 Athens Paralympic games.
While those Cheetah Blades have allowed Pistorius a chance to accomplish physical feats the world can marvel at, when used in competition against able-bodied athletes, they are nothing more than "Cheater" Blades.
Monday, January 14, 2008
School's Out
Does the name Terry Battle mean anything to you? Probably not.
How about Tony Daniels? No?
Reidel Anthony? Surely you remember that name as a prolific wide receiver in Steve Spurrier's Fun 'N Gun Florida offense in the mid-90s. He probably holds equally as much space in your mind as an NFL bust.
Battle, a former Arizona State running back, was a seventh round draft pick of the Detroit Lions who never saw NFL game action. He did serve brief stints in NFL Europe and with the XFL's San Francisco Demons.
Daniels played college ball at Texas Tech, but was undrafted.
Anthony was the 16th player taken in the 1997 draft, but spent five mediocre years with Tampa Bay where he only caught 50 passes once.
Aside from their professional football careers never panning out, these three men share another distinction: they all left school early for the 1997 NFL draft. They are joined by the likes of Jason Caudill, LeVance McQueen, Pearce Pegross, Alex Smith (A running back from Indiana -- yes, seriously), Rodney Wells, Kenny Wheaton and ... need I go further?
Thirty-four players in all left school early for the 1997 NFL Draft. Nine of them were not selected. Nine others went outside the top two rounds. Hardly the outcome they expected when they decided to forgo their senior season for a big payday.
With the obvious failure of so many early entries, logic would seem to lead more current college athletes to skip the quick paycheck and stay in school, either to improve their draft status or earn a college degree. Not so.
As of today, ten years and countless busts after that '97 class, 40 underclassmen have declared for the 2008 NFL Draft. Math has never been my strong suit, but with 32 NFL teams, even if every First Round selection is an underclassmen, eight will still go outside the top round. Will they ever learn their lesson? Let's take a quick peek at some of this season's future flops, shall we?
Nine wide receivers have entered early. Adrian Arrington of Michigan was not even the best wideout on his team. They guy who was, Mario Manningham, is also on the list. Talented Seniors DeSean Jackson of California, Limas Sweed of Texas and Early Doucet of LSU are sure to go before any of the young 'uns, which include two receivers from Hawaii, a 5'10'' wideout from West Virginia and a guy named Taj Smith who I've never heard of. Boy, this class is oozing with potential.
Nine running backs have also opted to bolt prematurely. Surely two-time Heisman runner-up Darren McFadden is making the right choice in coming out. He's a sure-fire top-5 pick. As for the rest of the group: Can Steve Slaton stay healthy; Can Kevin Smith translate his gaudy C-USA stats into NFL production; Are James Davis and Ray Rice serious; and do the others really matter?
Oh, and don't forget about Xavier Lee. He couldn't crack the starting lineup at quarterback for Florida State, so he figured he'd try to do so in the pros. Makes sense to me!
In all fairness, that 1997 class of early entries did experience some success. Ronde Barber and Orlando Pace are future Hall of Famers. Walter Jones is one of the best lineman in football, Tony Gonzalez is in the discussion for best tight end ever and Peter Boulware was a defensive force.
This 2008 class has it's gems as well. McFadden is the best running back the SEC has seen since Bo Jackson. Vernon Gholston will terrorize professional tackles just like he did in the Big Ten. And Aquib Talib has the makings of a shut-down corner. Other than those three guys, there is not another underclassman I would chance an early-round pick on.
Which begs the question, who is counseling these players? The truth is, the constant media exposure has given these young men an overinflated sense of ego and self worth. While I am big on personal accountability, I also believe that a person should make the most informed decision possible after accumulating as much information as possible. That responsibility falls on the NCAA and the NFL.
No, the NFL does not need to change it's early entry policy. If a player decides he wants to take a shot at the NFL draft, that is his prerogative if an NFL team will have him. The NFL is a business and has every right to make money by all legal means possible. At the same time, however, I am opposed to the exploitation of young people for the financial gain of others who should know better. And the NFL and NCAA has seen far too many young athletes pass on a college degree and flop at the professional level to watch listlessly as dozens of young athletes repeat the same mistakes of those that preceded them.
Education seems like a simplified course of action, but it also seems to be the most logical. Why not round up some former draft busts like Battle, Daniels and McQueen and have them tell their story to young college players who may be thinking of bolting for the NFL? Perhaps if kids hear the harsh reality of how difficult it is to succeed in the NFL from guys who have actually tried and failed, maybe they might think twice about staying in school. And if not, at least they will be making and informed decision based on facts instead of an impulsive one based on the allure of fancy cars, big homes and wads of cash.
I sincerely wish all of the young men who are pursuing their dream of playing professional football the best of luck. While I would love to believe that all of them will experience a certain measure of success and live with no regrets, history tells me that will not happen.
History is also waiting to claim a few more busts.
How about Tony Daniels? No?
Reidel Anthony? Surely you remember that name as a prolific wide receiver in Steve Spurrier's Fun 'N Gun Florida offense in the mid-90s. He probably holds equally as much space in your mind as an NFL bust.
Battle, a former Arizona State running back, was a seventh round draft pick of the Detroit Lions who never saw NFL game action. He did serve brief stints in NFL Europe and with the XFL's San Francisco Demons.
Daniels played college ball at Texas Tech, but was undrafted.
Anthony was the 16th player taken in the 1997 draft, but spent five mediocre years with Tampa Bay where he only caught 50 passes once.
Aside from their professional football careers never panning out, these three men share another distinction: they all left school early for the 1997 NFL draft. They are joined by the likes of Jason Caudill, LeVance McQueen, Pearce Pegross, Alex Smith (A running back from Indiana -- yes, seriously), Rodney Wells, Kenny Wheaton and ... need I go further?
Thirty-four players in all left school early for the 1997 NFL Draft. Nine of them were not selected. Nine others went outside the top two rounds. Hardly the outcome they expected when they decided to forgo their senior season for a big payday.
With the obvious failure of so many early entries, logic would seem to lead more current college athletes to skip the quick paycheck and stay in school, either to improve their draft status or earn a college degree. Not so.
As of today, ten years and countless busts after that '97 class, 40 underclassmen have declared for the 2008 NFL Draft. Math has never been my strong suit, but with 32 NFL teams, even if every First Round selection is an underclassmen, eight will still go outside the top round. Will they ever learn their lesson? Let's take a quick peek at some of this season's future flops, shall we?
Nine wide receivers have entered early. Adrian Arrington of Michigan was not even the best wideout on his team. They guy who was, Mario Manningham, is also on the list. Talented Seniors DeSean Jackson of California, Limas Sweed of Texas and Early Doucet of LSU are sure to go before any of the young 'uns, which include two receivers from Hawaii, a 5'10'' wideout from West Virginia and a guy named Taj Smith who I've never heard of. Boy, this class is oozing with potential.
Nine running backs have also opted to bolt prematurely. Surely two-time Heisman runner-up Darren McFadden is making the right choice in coming out. He's a sure-fire top-5 pick. As for the rest of the group: Can Steve Slaton stay healthy; Can Kevin Smith translate his gaudy C-USA stats into NFL production; Are James Davis and Ray Rice serious; and do the others really matter?
Oh, and don't forget about Xavier Lee. He couldn't crack the starting lineup at quarterback for Florida State, so he figured he'd try to do so in the pros. Makes sense to me!
In all fairness, that 1997 class of early entries did experience some success. Ronde Barber and Orlando Pace are future Hall of Famers. Walter Jones is one of the best lineman in football, Tony Gonzalez is in the discussion for best tight end ever and Peter Boulware was a defensive force.
This 2008 class has it's gems as well. McFadden is the best running back the SEC has seen since Bo Jackson. Vernon Gholston will terrorize professional tackles just like he did in the Big Ten. And Aquib Talib has the makings of a shut-down corner. Other than those three guys, there is not another underclassman I would chance an early-round pick on.
Which begs the question, who is counseling these players? The truth is, the constant media exposure has given these young men an overinflated sense of ego and self worth. While I am big on personal accountability, I also believe that a person should make the most informed decision possible after accumulating as much information as possible. That responsibility falls on the NCAA and the NFL.
No, the NFL does not need to change it's early entry policy. If a player decides he wants to take a shot at the NFL draft, that is his prerogative if an NFL team will have him. The NFL is a business and has every right to make money by all legal means possible. At the same time, however, I am opposed to the exploitation of young people for the financial gain of others who should know better. And the NFL and NCAA has seen far too many young athletes pass on a college degree and flop at the professional level to watch listlessly as dozens of young athletes repeat the same mistakes of those that preceded them.
Education seems like a simplified course of action, but it also seems to be the most logical. Why not round up some former draft busts like Battle, Daniels and McQueen and have them tell their story to young college players who may be thinking of bolting for the NFL? Perhaps if kids hear the harsh reality of how difficult it is to succeed in the NFL from guys who have actually tried and failed, maybe they might think twice about staying in school. And if not, at least they will be making and informed decision based on facts instead of an impulsive one based on the allure of fancy cars, big homes and wads of cash.
I sincerely wish all of the young men who are pursuing their dream of playing professional football the best of luck. While I would love to believe that all of them will experience a certain measure of success and live with no regrets, history tells me that will not happen.
History is also waiting to claim a few more busts.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Thanks, Eli!
Thank you Eli Manning.
Thank you, from the bottom of every true football fan's heart. From the Black Hole to the Hogettes; Dirty Birds to Bless You Boys! Thank you.
By overcoming your previous playoff failures (0-and-2 in two appearances) to piece together back-to-back playoff victories, you have given the greatest gift possible to for-love-of-the-game football fans.
You even had to overcome history to gift wrap this gem. Since the NFL switched to its current playoff format in 1990, top seeds from the NFC were a perfect 17-0 in the Divisional Round. Until now. Because of you, Eli.
By leading your New York Giants to an improbable 21-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Texas Stadium Sunday, you have assured all NFL fans the opportunity to see the most entertaining player in the league's history lead the league's most historic franchise one more time in the league's greatest Cathedral with a trip to the league's biggest game on the line. Set your tape. Get your TiVo ready. Brett Favre gets to play another game in the already snow-covered, Frozen Tundra of Lambeau Field with a trip to Super Bowl XLII on the line. And we have Eli Manning to thank.
True the newly-tanned Tony Romo (Thanks Jessica!) was on the field with the Dallas offense for 13 more minutes than was Manning. Big-D even out gained the G-Men by more than 100 yards! And maybe we should toss a few kudos the Giants defense which had Romo staring more at the hole in the roof of Texas Stadium than at holes in the Giant's "D", but this was Eli's day. When big brother Peyton couldn't carry the Manning family flag in a home game, Eli was able to go on the road and wave it proudly.
The roller coaster ride that has been Manning's four seasons in New York is beginning to peak. Eli was strikingly calm and efficient Sunday. On the game's first drive, Manning found Amani Toomer for a 52-yard scoring strike to give the Giants an early edge. Then, after Dallas clawed to a 14-7 lead, Manning orchestrated a brilliant two-minute drive, finding Toomer again for a 4-yard TD, knotting the game with seven seconds to play in the first half. Unfortunately for Eli, every thrill-seeker knows when a roller coaster peaks, a hard, fast descent is soon to follow.
That fall could come next week. So when you laugh at seeing a gray-bearded, 38-year-old quarterback pelting teammates with snowballs during timeouts, thank Eli. When you see No. 4 hoist a wide receiver on his back and gleefully carry him off the field after a touchdown, thank Eli. When you see one of the greatest men to ever play the game take the field at Lambeau one last time, savor it, and thank Eli.
Favre says he may play next season, but we all know his ride will soon come to an end. And we are all anticipating the backside of Eli's roller coaster. After all, a fall follows every peak.
Or, has Eli's ascent just begun?
Hmmm. Maybe you shouldn't mail those thank you cards just yet.
Thank you, from the bottom of every true football fan's heart. From the Black Hole to the Hogettes; Dirty Birds to Bless You Boys! Thank you.
By overcoming your previous playoff failures (0-and-2 in two appearances) to piece together back-to-back playoff victories, you have given the greatest gift possible to for-love-of-the-game football fans.
You even had to overcome history to gift wrap this gem. Since the NFL switched to its current playoff format in 1990, top seeds from the NFC were a perfect 17-0 in the Divisional Round. Until now. Because of you, Eli.
By leading your New York Giants to an improbable 21-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Texas Stadium Sunday, you have assured all NFL fans the opportunity to see the most entertaining player in the league's history lead the league's most historic franchise one more time in the league's greatest Cathedral with a trip to the league's biggest game on the line. Set your tape. Get your TiVo ready. Brett Favre gets to play another game in the already snow-covered, Frozen Tundra of Lambeau Field with a trip to Super Bowl XLII on the line. And we have Eli Manning to thank.
True the newly-tanned Tony Romo (Thanks Jessica!) was on the field with the Dallas offense for 13 more minutes than was Manning. Big-D even out gained the G-Men by more than 100 yards! And maybe we should toss a few kudos the Giants defense which had Romo staring more at the hole in the roof of Texas Stadium than at holes in the Giant's "D", but this was Eli's day. When big brother Peyton couldn't carry the Manning family flag in a home game, Eli was able to go on the road and wave it proudly.
The roller coaster ride that has been Manning's four seasons in New York is beginning to peak. Eli was strikingly calm and efficient Sunday. On the game's first drive, Manning found Amani Toomer for a 52-yard scoring strike to give the Giants an early edge. Then, after Dallas clawed to a 14-7 lead, Manning orchestrated a brilliant two-minute drive, finding Toomer again for a 4-yard TD, knotting the game with seven seconds to play in the first half. Unfortunately for Eli, every thrill-seeker knows when a roller coaster peaks, a hard, fast descent is soon to follow.
That fall could come next week. So when you laugh at seeing a gray-bearded, 38-year-old quarterback pelting teammates with snowballs during timeouts, thank Eli. When you see No. 4 hoist a wide receiver on his back and gleefully carry him off the field after a touchdown, thank Eli. When you see one of the greatest men to ever play the game take the field at Lambeau one last time, savor it, and thank Eli.
Favre says he may play next season, but we all know his ride will soon come to an end. And we are all anticipating the backside of Eli's roller coaster. After all, a fall follows every peak.
Or, has Eli's ascent just begun?
Hmmm. Maybe you shouldn't mail those thank you cards just yet.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Hog Wild!
Brace yourself.
Seriously. Take a seat. Grab hold of something stable. What I'm about to tell you is truly stunning.
Deep breath. OK, here goes. Arkansas stud running back Darren McFadden is going pro.
...
What? You already knew that?
Oh. While all of college football fully expected this from the Heisman runner-up (heck, his mother admitted as much before the 2007 season even started), the announcement caps off a drama-filled seven-week stretch for McFadden complete with scenarios that many star athletes never experience in their entire career. Let's briefly examine this timeline, shall we?
Nov. 23 - McFadden and the Arkansas Razorbacks were walking bowl season's tight rope with a precarious 7-4 record when they waltzed into Tiger Stadium to tangle with top-ranked LSU on the day after Thanksgiving. Thanks in large part to McFadden's 206 yard, three touchdown rushing performance (He also threw a TD pass for good measure) the Hogs escaped Baton Rouge with a triple-overtime victory and solidified their bowl standing. After the game, McFadden appeared on national television pounding his chest with a small wooden baseball bat shouting, "We got that wood!"
Nov. 26 - Three days after the emotional toppling of the nation's top-ranked team, the man who recruited and coached McFadden for three years, Houston Nutt, announced his resignation as Head Hog.
Dec. 2 - Thanks in large part to it's impressive upset of then-No. 1 LSU to wrap up the season, Arkansas accepts an invite to play in the Cotton Bowl against Missouri New Year's Day, despite losing its coach.
Dec. 8 - For the second time a bridesmaid and still not the bride. McFadden finishes second in the Heisman Trophy voting to Florida sophomore Tim Tebow. The win made Tebow the first underclassman to ever win the award. The runner-up finish made McFadden the first back-to-back silver medalist since the late '40s.
Dec. 27 - An Arkansas television station breaks a story alleging that McFadden might have obtained his new vehicle (A shiny Cadillac Escalade) improperly from an agent, calling into question his status with the Razorbacks. McFadden asserts he purchased the vehicle on his own based on a delayed payment plan.
Jan. 1 - McFadden could only muster a modest 105 yards rushing, while his Missouri Counterpart Tony Temple set a Cotton Bowl record with 281 yards on only 24 carries, pacing the Tigers to a 38-7 rout of the Razorbacks.
Jan. 10 - Described by police as a "pretty rowdy scene", McFadden is the only person handcuffed outside Ernie Biggs Piano Bar in Little Rock. Yes, you read that correctly -- Ernie Biggs PIANO BAR. According to police, bar employee Brant Hankins was hit in the head by a patron when a scuffle ensued inside the club before spilling into the parking lot. McFadden was handcuffed, "because he was agitated and was provoking aggressive behavior inciting the incident," according to the police report. Arkansas law prohibits any person under the age of 21 from entering a bar where smoking is allowed and no food is served, like Ernie Biggs. McFadden is 20. No charges have been filed.
Note: Is there any less likely place where you might expect to find a "pretty rowdy scene" than a piano bar? Maybe a Lunesta testing facility? The annual board meeting for the AARP? Canada? Just a thought.
Which brings us to the present where Darren McFadden's father has reportedly submitted the necessary paperwork for his son to enter the 2008 NFL Draft. McFadden is an exceptional talent. It would be difficult to argue against McFadden and his nearly 4,600 career rushing yards as the most dominant of any SEC back since Bo Jackson. As a general rule, I hate to see talented college players forgo their final year of eligibility to accept a quick check, but this is the exception. It's time Darren McFadden packs up his Escalade and brings his wood to the NFL. There is no doubt he can be just as dominant at the next level as he was in college, assuming he stays healthy. And there is also no doubt that McFadden has gotten too big for the college game.
So, please go. No more driving luxury cars to practice. No more "rowdy" scuffles at piano bars. No more obnoxious interviews with props on national television.
Take those tricks and all of your talent to the NFL. You'll fit in just fine with that crowd.
Seriously. Take a seat. Grab hold of something stable. What I'm about to tell you is truly stunning.
Deep breath. OK, here goes. Arkansas stud running back Darren McFadden is going pro.
...
What? You already knew that?
Oh. While all of college football fully expected this from the Heisman runner-up (heck, his mother admitted as much before the 2007 season even started), the announcement caps off a drama-filled seven-week stretch for McFadden complete with scenarios that many star athletes never experience in their entire career. Let's briefly examine this timeline, shall we?
Nov. 23 - McFadden and the Arkansas Razorbacks were walking bowl season's tight rope with a precarious 7-4 record when they waltzed into Tiger Stadium to tangle with top-ranked LSU on the day after Thanksgiving. Thanks in large part to McFadden's 206 yard, three touchdown rushing performance (He also threw a TD pass for good measure) the Hogs escaped Baton Rouge with a triple-overtime victory and solidified their bowl standing. After the game, McFadden appeared on national television pounding his chest with a small wooden baseball bat shouting, "We got that wood!"
Nov. 26 - Three days after the emotional toppling of the nation's top-ranked team, the man who recruited and coached McFadden for three years, Houston Nutt, announced his resignation as Head Hog.
Dec. 2 - Thanks in large part to it's impressive upset of then-No. 1 LSU to wrap up the season, Arkansas accepts an invite to play in the Cotton Bowl against Missouri New Year's Day, despite losing its coach.
Dec. 8 - For the second time a bridesmaid and still not the bride. McFadden finishes second in the Heisman Trophy voting to Florida sophomore Tim Tebow. The win made Tebow the first underclassman to ever win the award. The runner-up finish made McFadden the first back-to-back silver medalist since the late '40s.
Dec. 27 - An Arkansas television station breaks a story alleging that McFadden might have obtained his new vehicle (A shiny Cadillac Escalade) improperly from an agent, calling into question his status with the Razorbacks. McFadden asserts he purchased the vehicle on his own based on a delayed payment plan.
Jan. 1 - McFadden could only muster a modest 105 yards rushing, while his Missouri Counterpart Tony Temple set a Cotton Bowl record with 281 yards on only 24 carries, pacing the Tigers to a 38-7 rout of the Razorbacks.
Jan. 10 - Described by police as a "pretty rowdy scene", McFadden is the only person handcuffed outside Ernie Biggs Piano Bar in Little Rock. Yes, you read that correctly -- Ernie Biggs PIANO BAR. According to police, bar employee Brant Hankins was hit in the head by a patron when a scuffle ensued inside the club before spilling into the parking lot. McFadden was handcuffed, "because he was agitated and was provoking aggressive behavior inciting the incident," according to the police report. Arkansas law prohibits any person under the age of 21 from entering a bar where smoking is allowed and no food is served, like Ernie Biggs. McFadden is 20. No charges have been filed.
Note: Is there any less likely place where you might expect to find a "pretty rowdy scene" than a piano bar? Maybe a Lunesta testing facility? The annual board meeting for the AARP? Canada? Just a thought.
Which brings us to the present where Darren McFadden's father has reportedly submitted the necessary paperwork for his son to enter the 2008 NFL Draft. McFadden is an exceptional talent. It would be difficult to argue against McFadden and his nearly 4,600 career rushing yards as the most dominant of any SEC back since Bo Jackson. As a general rule, I hate to see talented college players forgo their final year of eligibility to accept a quick check, but this is the exception. It's time Darren McFadden packs up his Escalade and brings his wood to the NFL. There is no doubt he can be just as dominant at the next level as he was in college, assuming he stays healthy. And there is also no doubt that McFadden has gotten too big for the college game.
So, please go. No more driving luxury cars to practice. No more "rowdy" scuffles at piano bars. No more obnoxious interviews with props on national television.
Take those tricks and all of your talent to the NFL. You'll fit in just fine with that crowd.
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