He predicted the Packers-Steelers Superbowl in the preseason.
His prediction. Steelers win.
J
Monday, January 31, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Sportingnews Top 10 for CFB 2011
1. LSU. Until someone beats the SEC in the biggest game of the season, we’ll go with the best team in the best conference.
2. Oklahoma. The big question: Will the loss of the Big 12 Championship game hurt or help the Sooners?
3. Oregon. Ducks have to rebuild on defense, but the foundation is there and the Pac-10 (outside Stanford) is woefully weak.
4. Ohio State. Even a five-game suspension for the team’s top five players won’t be enough to slow the Buckeyes (see: those five games aren’t as tough as they look).
5. Stanford. Don’t be shocked if Stanford repeats 2010, loses only to Oregon and earns a BCS bid.
6. Alabama. You say Mark Ingram, I say Trent Richardson. And the Tide defense will be better than 2010.
7. Oklahoma State. Without Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon returning, ’Pokes are a 7- or 8-win team.
8. Nebraska. The transition to the Big Ten will tougher than most expect, but Huskers are too balanced to not win the Legends Division and get two games against Ohio State.
9. Texas A&M. Don’t be fooled by the Cotton Bowl loss to LSU. The best offense in 2011 will be more prepared next season in a top-heavy Big 12.
10. Boise State. A win vs. Georgia (in Georgia Dome) early in the season, and 2011 looks like 2010: don’t slip up the remaining three months.
Read more: http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/feed/2011-01/2011-nfl-draft/story/oklahoma-state-the-clear-winner-for-2011#ixzz1C8VidqIZ
j
2. Oklahoma. The big question: Will the loss of the Big 12 Championship game hurt or help the Sooners?
3. Oregon. Ducks have to rebuild on defense, but the foundation is there and the Pac-10 (outside Stanford) is woefully weak.
4. Ohio State. Even a five-game suspension for the team’s top five players won’t be enough to slow the Buckeyes (see: those five games aren’t as tough as they look).
5. Stanford. Don’t be shocked if Stanford repeats 2010, loses only to Oregon and earns a BCS bid.
6. Alabama. You say Mark Ingram, I say Trent Richardson. And the Tide defense will be better than 2010.
7. Oklahoma State. Without Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon returning, ’Pokes are a 7- or 8-win team.
8. Nebraska. The transition to the Big Ten will tougher than most expect, but Huskers are too balanced to not win the Legends Division and get two games against Ohio State.
9. Texas A&M. Don’t be fooled by the Cotton Bowl loss to LSU. The best offense in 2011 will be more prepared next season in a top-heavy Big 12.
10. Boise State. A win vs. Georgia (in Georgia Dome) early in the season, and 2011 looks like 2010: don’t slip up the remaining three months.
Read more: http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/feed/2011-01/2011-nfl-draft/story/oklahoma-state-the-clear-winner-for-2011#ixzz1C8VidqIZ
j
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Thoughts on "The Book of Basketball"
All basketball/NBA fans should pick up a copy of this book. Written by a guy who obviously loves basketball, it's an easy read, fun, like talking sports with a friend and arguing about what player is better or what team is better. You pick up a lot of NBA history along the way and a lot of great "behind the scenes" stories about the great players.
Some of the major subjects are: How to improve the NBA, What is the "Secret" of winning basketball, Who are the best players and why, Who are the best teams and why, and Simmons' favorite subject, blowing up the hall of fame, starting over with his somewhat famous "Pyramid", and discussing who belongs and who doesn't.
All sports fans like ourselves love to argue about player and team rankings. Simmons makes his cases with some good research, lots of anecdotes, some humor, and significant amounts of stats. We all would see any such lists and cry "foul", but the point is that the arguments are the fun part. I really hope everyone following this will try to get a copy if you like basketball. It's a good one to have around.
Simmons ranks the 96 best players, but I'll just give you his top 20:
20. Lebron James
19. Charles Barkley
18. Karl Malone
17. Bob Pettit
16. Julius Erving
15. Elgin Baylor
14. John Havlicek
13. Moses Malone
12. Shaquile O'Neal
11. Hakeem Olajuwon
10. Oscar Robertson
9. Jerry West
8. Kobe Bryant
7. Tim Duncan
6. Wilt Chamberlain
5. Larry Bird
4. Magic Johnson
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabaar
2. Bill Russell
1. Michael Jordan
I love writing them down and thinking about how everyone reading this will be screaming when they see rankings they don't agree with. Now Simmons puts several pages of information on each player to back up his claim, and that is the best reading in the book. Just a ton of interesting info on everyone to make his case. Next is Simmons' all-time best teams:
10. '91 Bulls
9. '72 Lakers
8. '83 76ers
7. '71 Bucks
6. '97 Bulls
5. '01 Lakers
4. '89 Pistons
3. '87 Lakers
2. '96 Bulls
1. '86 Celtics
Note that Simmons did not believe pre-70's teams could compete with modern teams, even Russell's Celtics. Finally, here is the 12-man roster Simmons would pick if he had to play a 7-game series against "basketball-playing aliens" with the fate of the planet on the line:
'77 Kareem (starter)
'86 Larry Bird (starter)
'03 Tim Duncan (starter)
'85 Magic (starter)
'92 Jordan (starter)
'86 Kevin McHale
'92 Scottie Pippen
'09 Dewayne Wade
'77 Bill Walton
'10 Lebron James
'09 Chris Paul
'01 Ray Allen
Simmons' criteria was a roster of players who would play together, embrace the team, make each other better, and a team that was flexible, could play big or small, had scorers and shut-down defenders. I hope everyone reading goes to sleep tonight steaming about why you think some of these picks are stupid. Read the book!
S
Some of the major subjects are: How to improve the NBA, What is the "Secret" of winning basketball, Who are the best players and why, Who are the best teams and why, and Simmons' favorite subject, blowing up the hall of fame, starting over with his somewhat famous "Pyramid", and discussing who belongs and who doesn't.
All sports fans like ourselves love to argue about player and team rankings. Simmons makes his cases with some good research, lots of anecdotes, some humor, and significant amounts of stats. We all would see any such lists and cry "foul", but the point is that the arguments are the fun part. I really hope everyone following this will try to get a copy if you like basketball. It's a good one to have around.
Simmons ranks the 96 best players, but I'll just give you his top 20:
20. Lebron James
19. Charles Barkley
18. Karl Malone
17. Bob Pettit
16. Julius Erving
15. Elgin Baylor
14. John Havlicek
13. Moses Malone
12. Shaquile O'Neal
11. Hakeem Olajuwon
10. Oscar Robertson
9. Jerry West
8. Kobe Bryant
7. Tim Duncan
6. Wilt Chamberlain
5. Larry Bird
4. Magic Johnson
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabaar
2. Bill Russell
1. Michael Jordan
I love writing them down and thinking about how everyone reading this will be screaming when they see rankings they don't agree with. Now Simmons puts several pages of information on each player to back up his claim, and that is the best reading in the book. Just a ton of interesting info on everyone to make his case. Next is Simmons' all-time best teams:
10. '91 Bulls
9. '72 Lakers
8. '83 76ers
7. '71 Bucks
6. '97 Bulls
5. '01 Lakers
4. '89 Pistons
3. '87 Lakers
2. '96 Bulls
1. '86 Celtics
Note that Simmons did not believe pre-70's teams could compete with modern teams, even Russell's Celtics. Finally, here is the 12-man roster Simmons would pick if he had to play a 7-game series against "basketball-playing aliens" with the fate of the planet on the line:
'77 Kareem (starter)
'86 Larry Bird (starter)
'03 Tim Duncan (starter)
'85 Magic (starter)
'92 Jordan (starter)
'86 Kevin McHale
'92 Scottie Pippen
'09 Dewayne Wade
'77 Bill Walton
'10 Lebron James
'09 Chris Paul
'01 Ray Allen
Simmons' criteria was a roster of players who would play together, embrace the team, make each other better, and a team that was flexible, could play big or small, had scorers and shut-down defenders. I hope everyone reading goes to sleep tonight steaming about why you think some of these picks are stupid. Read the book!
S
Griffin vs. Mavs Tonight
I will have to watch the Mavs tonight in order to catch Blake Griffin. At the halfway point Griffin is averaging a 23/13, shooting 52%, and leading the league in highlights, while running away with rookie of the year. I heard someone say "think of Griffin as Tim Duncan's physique with Charles Barkley's hops." Teamed with Eric Gordon, do the Clips have a future?
S
S
"Jones says Cowboys set at corner"
From Jerry: "Our corners, if you compare us to other teams across the league, we're in good shape at corner". The Cowboys were in the bottom 7 in passing yards allowed (259/gm) and completion % (64.4%), and allowed a league high 33 TD passes. Jerry is either trying to divert attention from his intention to draft a CB high, or he's oblivious as usual.
The Cowboys were the only team to have 2 corners in the bottom 10 for yardage allowed:
DeAngelo Hall - 70 compl 1,005 yds
Mike Jenkins - 54 - 935
Kareem Jackson - 50 - 920
Cortland Finnegan - 65 - 908
Marcus Trufant - 58 - 880
Terrence Newman - 58 - 871
S
The Cowboys were the only team to have 2 corners in the bottom 10 for yardage allowed:
DeAngelo Hall - 70 compl 1,005 yds
Mike Jenkins - 54 - 935
Kareem Jackson - 50 - 920
Cortland Finnegan - 65 - 908
Marcus Trufant - 58 - 880
Terrence Newman - 58 - 871
S
Monday, January 24, 2011
Cowboys Greatest Players
ESPN had a link to pick what you considered the Dallas Cowboys Greatest Team.
I did my team today. http://espn.go.com/espn/dallas/greatestteam/index/_/teamId/5984991/dallas-cowboys-greatest-team-greatest-team-all-time?teamId=5984991&votes=0:28~
My really difficult choices.
1, Hayes and Irvin over Drew Pearson- I had to pick Hayes, he was just different than anyone in TD's. Pearson remains the only player from the 70's all decade team not in Hall of Fame on Offense.
2. Sanders over Cornell Green, but in his 5 years in Dallas, Deion Sanders was the best in the league till he got hurt.
3. George Andrie over Too Tall , he just did more in less games.
Other Stuff:
A. Staubach over Aikman was easy, best player in the league for years.
B. Smith and Dorsett easily the best two RB in the same uniform we have seen in our life.
C. Lilly - White and Harvey Martin - Martin should be considered for HOF. Haley wasnt there long enough.
D. John Niland over Nate Newton was easy for me. He was just better in comparison, truthfully Newton barely kept his job over Kevin Gogan when he was in Dallas. I still think Gogan was as good at least.
E. Of course. Tom Landry over Jimmy Johnson. No one other than Shula and Gibbs have won with that many different teams in the modern era.
J
I did my team today. http://espn.go.com/espn/dallas/greatestteam/index/_/teamId/5984991/dallas-cowboys-greatest-team-greatest-team-all-time?teamId=5984991&votes=0:28~
My really difficult choices.
1, Hayes and Irvin over Drew Pearson- I had to pick Hayes, he was just different than anyone in TD's. Pearson remains the only player from the 70's all decade team not in Hall of Fame on Offense.
2. Sanders over Cornell Green, but in his 5 years in Dallas, Deion Sanders was the best in the league till he got hurt.
3. George Andrie over Too Tall , he just did more in less games.
Other Stuff:
A. Staubach over Aikman was easy, best player in the league for years.
B. Smith and Dorsett easily the best two RB in the same uniform we have seen in our life.
C. Lilly - White and Harvey Martin - Martin should be considered for HOF. Haley wasnt there long enough.
D. John Niland over Nate Newton was easy for me. He was just better in comparison, truthfully Newton barely kept his job over Kevin Gogan when he was in Dallas. I still think Gogan was as good at least.
E. Of course. Tom Landry over Jimmy Johnson. No one other than Shula and Gibbs have won with that many different teams in the modern era.
J
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Golfers Being DQ'd
Padraig Harrington's disqualification this week brought the whiners out of the wood work again.
Many of the TV commentators and some players think it is wrong for a veiwer to see a penalty and be able to report the issue to have the situation corrected.
Why?
First off, there is no way Harrington didn't know he hit the ball with his hand.
Secondly, these golfers have to know the rules and have no excuses for these mistakes.
Thirdly, does anyone really think it would be better if someone won the Masters and cheated?
When golfers like Ian Poulter complain and then TV personalities like Wilbon PTI spend time calling the viewers that report the violation DOPES it makes me want to puke as a regular Golf Viewer. They still do not understand the spirit of the game nor what it represents.
J
Many of the TV commentators and some players think it is wrong for a veiwer to see a penalty and be able to report the issue to have the situation corrected.
Why?
First off, there is no way Harrington didn't know he hit the ball with his hand.
Secondly, these golfers have to know the rules and have no excuses for these mistakes.
Thirdly, does anyone really think it would be better if someone won the Masters and cheated?
When golfers like Ian Poulter complain and then TV personalities like Wilbon PTI spend time calling the viewers that report the violation DOPES it makes me want to puke as a regular Golf Viewer. They still do not understand the spirit of the game nor what it represents.
J
5 Star Players.
During Chris Childers radio show he talked about what the Star system represented.
5-Star - Rated as NFL Talent-Sure Fire.
4-Star - All conference in College.
J
5-Star - Rated as NFL Talent-Sure Fire.
4-Star - All conference in College.
J
Thursday, January 20, 2011
David Skywalker
I picked a great time to read this book with the NBA in full flight. Let's take a moment to remember the prototype for Michael Jordan, the pre-cocaine David Thompson. Obviously a favorite of the young Simmons, the Skywalker exploded out of the ABA in 1977 and was first-team all-NBA his first 2 years before succumbing to the white powder and then a devasting knee injury.
Sporting a 44-inch vertical, Thompson jumped center for NC St., played in one of the most famous college games ever (NC St. over Maryland in triple OT), and led the pack to a stunning upset over Walton/UCLA, winning tournament MVP in '74.
As Simmons discusses, Thompson's leaping ability was absolutely legendary and still talked about. At a listed 6'4, he could explode in traffic, with no running start, to finish alley-oops and swat shots. In '78 he went into the final day of the season battling Gervin for the scoring championship. All he did was hit 20 of his first 21 shots, score 53 points in the first half on his way to 73 total, and lose when Gervin tossed in 63 to hold onto his lead.
From Dan Issel: "All of his teammates loved him because he helped you win and he was the type of player that made everyone better, not a player who subtracted from everyone else on the team to get his stats." Yet in his prime he averaged 27 for 3 years.
I agree with Simmons that without the drug habit and subsequent knee blow-out, he was a top-20 all-time guy. Unfortunately in the 70's and 80's, cocaine ruined a lot of careers in the NBA. The Skywalker should be remembered.
S
Sporting a 44-inch vertical, Thompson jumped center for NC St., played in one of the most famous college games ever (NC St. over Maryland in triple OT), and led the pack to a stunning upset over Walton/UCLA, winning tournament MVP in '74.
As Simmons discusses, Thompson's leaping ability was absolutely legendary and still talked about. At a listed 6'4, he could explode in traffic, with no running start, to finish alley-oops and swat shots. In '78 he went into the final day of the season battling Gervin for the scoring championship. All he did was hit 20 of his first 21 shots, score 53 points in the first half on his way to 73 total, and lose when Gervin tossed in 63 to hold onto his lead.
From Dan Issel: "All of his teammates loved him because he helped you win and he was the type of player that made everyone better, not a player who subtracted from everyone else on the team to get his stats." Yet in his prime he averaged 27 for 3 years.
I agree with Simmons that without the drug habit and subsequent knee blow-out, he was a top-20 all-time guy. Unfortunately in the 70's and 80's, cocaine ruined a lot of careers in the NBA. The Skywalker should be remembered.
S
Left-Handed NBA HOF
As I read this Simmons "Book of Basketball" I'll post a few thoughts and oddities. Here is the NBA all-time left-handed team (for no other reason than that Simmons is slightly nuts):
Bill Russell
David Robinson
Billy Cunningham
Tiny Archibald
Gail Goodrich
Chris Mullin
Dave Cowens
Willis Reed
Lamar Odom
Sarunas Marciulonis
John Lucas
Manu Ginobili
Not bad
S
Bill Russell
David Robinson
Billy Cunningham
Tiny Archibald
Gail Goodrich
Chris Mullin
Dave Cowens
Willis Reed
Lamar Odom
Sarunas Marciulonis
John Lucas
Manu Ginobili
Not bad
S
Steve Kragthorpe LSU Offensive Coordinator.
Word out of Baton Rouge is the Mad Hatter has hired Kragthorpe.
My feelings are mixed on this hire:
1. I am glad Crowton is gone, it obviously did not work with Miles and Crowton.
2. The job he did at Louisville was abysmal. Everything about the offense became terrible. If you look up the decline you will be shocked.
I found this article on a Louisville page and it summarizes my thoughts.
Here is what was in the media guide when he went to Louisville
My feelings are mixed on this hire:
1. I am glad Crowton is gone, it obviously did not work with Miles and Crowton.
2. The job he did at Louisville was abysmal. Everything about the offense became terrible. If you look up the decline you will be shocked.
I found this article on a Louisville page and it summarizes my thoughts.
Seriously, The Hat, The Krag and Ron Cooper on the same staff? LSU has been pushing it with the football gods for the past few years, now they're just blatantly taunting them.I am sorry, I could not be more positive on the hire.
http://www.cardchronicle.com/2011/1/20/1946050/lsu-hires-steve-kragthorpe
Here is what was in the media guide when he went to Louisville
Known as one of the best offensive minds in the country, Kragthorpe's teams have scored 30 or more points 29 times, 40 points on 10 occasions and 50 points three times. His 2006 squad was second in Conference USA in total offense and scoring. In 2005, Kragthorpe guided Tulsa to its third winning season in four years, going 8-5 and advancing to the Armed Forces Bowl before falling to Utah, 25-13.j
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Maybe I am old, but the technology is great.
My son just walked in during my Basketball game viewing time and said I was ADHD!
His Reasoning:
2 Laptops Running.
One Laptop had 4 games on the ESPN multi game package. (Texas and AM, Ark-SC, OKST-Iowa State, and WV game.)
The other was being used for reading papers and blogs.
On my 50 inch, I was flipping between the Mavs, Golf and American Idol.
It is truly great to be a sports fan in today's world. I love this stuff.
I need to teach my son that the world MULTI-TASKING is more polite in the minds of my generation.
J
His Reasoning:
2 Laptops Running.
One Laptop had 4 games on the ESPN multi game package. (Texas and AM, Ark-SC, OKST-Iowa State, and WV game.)
The other was being used for reading papers and blogs.
On my 50 inch, I was flipping between the Mavs, Golf and American Idol.
It is truly great to be a sports fan in today's world. I love this stuff.
I need to teach my son that the world MULTI-TASKING is more polite in the minds of my generation.
J
Kipers Top Picks
Kiper hit the draft board today on ESPN with his top 10.
1. Fairley- Panthers
2. Peterson - Broncos
3. Dareus- Bills
4. Bowers- Bengals.
5. Gabbert- Cards
6-Green - Browns
7. Quinn-San Fran
8. Miller- Titans
9. Amukamara- Cowboys.
10. Newton- Redskins
Top 3 picks from SEC 5 of top 10.
3 from Big 12. 2 from ACC.
Personally, I would pick Peterson number 1 overall and AJ Green 2nd.
Special CB's are just too hard to find and Fairley may have Suh's talent, but I remember the weight problems. AJ Green is just the best player on the field player on the field nearly every game.
I would love for the Cowboys to get the Cornhusker DB, but I have a feeling he may not last that long if he runs well at the workouts. At that point, we will get a O lineman discussion started and with the Cowboys drafting that scares me. Smith at USC or Carimi from Wisconsin? But what will really happen? They will likely trade down and get someone in the 3rd round and cut him in three years.
Julio Jones outside the top 15? This will be interesting to watch, if he runs under 4.5.
J
1. Fairley- Panthers
2. Peterson - Broncos
3. Dareus- Bills
4. Bowers- Bengals.
5. Gabbert- Cards
6-Green - Browns
7. Quinn-San Fran
8. Miller- Titans
9. Amukamara- Cowboys.
10. Newton- Redskins
Top 3 picks from SEC 5 of top 10.
3 from Big 12. 2 from ACC.
Personally, I would pick Peterson number 1 overall and AJ Green 2nd.
Special CB's are just too hard to find and Fairley may have Suh's talent, but I remember the weight problems. AJ Green is just the best player on the field player on the field nearly every game.
I would love for the Cowboys to get the Cornhusker DB, but I have a feeling he may not last that long if he runs well at the workouts. At that point, we will get a O lineman discussion started and with the Cowboys drafting that scares me. Smith at USC or Carimi from Wisconsin? But what will really happen? They will likely trade down and get someone in the 3rd round and cut him in three years.
Julio Jones outside the top 15? This will be interesting to watch, if he runs under 4.5.
J
Universtiy Of Texas TV Network
The university of Texas and ESPN have agreed to terms on a 20 year deal for a 24 hour UT network.
ESPN is supposed to establish the programming and run the operations. It is valued at a reported 300 million dollars.
Where do we start with this one?
1. Will it be profitable?
2. Does the Big 12 survive this?
3. Are there any Cable TV companies willing to pay to pick it up?
4. Will Texas kill its own regional popularity by running the Aggies off and allowing the SEC into the Market. Why would Oklahoma not try to join the Aggies and leave Texas?
5. Can this make Texas as popular as Notre Dame.
J
ESPN is supposed to establish the programming and run the operations. It is valued at a reported 300 million dollars.
Where do we start with this one?
1. Will it be profitable?
2. Does the Big 12 survive this?
3. Are there any Cable TV companies willing to pay to pick it up?
4. Will Texas kill its own regional popularity by running the Aggies off and allowing the SEC into the Market. Why would Oklahoma not try to join the Aggies and leave Texas?
5. Can this make Texas as popular as Notre Dame.
J
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
While we are on the subject of Les Miles.
You post gave me the opportunity to touch on two things about Miles:
1.) Michigan supposedly offered Miles 4.25 million and then after he said no, they raised the offer.
It seems Michigan should have known to start at over 5 million to save face.
2.) In my previous post from the day Miles turned down Michigan, I made a comment that was apropos.
My comment
Miles latest venture into the sublime:
During the new conference after Miles turned down Michigan and said he was staying at LSU.
Mr. Les Miles butt dialed the Michigan Athletic Director and people could here his voice mail answering.
PRICELESS!
J
1.) Michigan supposedly offered Miles 4.25 million and then after he said no, they raised the offer.
It seems Michigan should have known to start at over 5 million to save face.
2.) In my previous post from the day Miles turned down Michigan, I made a comment that was apropos.
My comment
"I will be ripping Miles for his inability to adjust and his aptitude for doing the wrong thing at the wrong time."
Miles latest venture into the sublime:
During the new conference after Miles turned down Michigan and said he was staying at LSU.
Mr. Les Miles butt dialed the Michigan Athletic Director and people could here his voice mail answering.
PRICELESS!
J
Miles/Michigan Follow Up
I heard it was reported today that Miles turned down over $4mm per year from Michigan. As goofy as he is, he does know where the talent is.
S
S
Rivals Top 100 came out.
For the truly die hard college football junkie, here is the article discussing the changes in rankings.
http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1177922
S, some of the comments about raw players moving up does suggest your theory that they judge off of potential and not production.
Rivals top Five Teams: 1. Bama 2. Horns 3. LSU 4. Fla State 5. USC.
Did you notice that Saban has not raided Louisiana this year?
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/teamrank/2011/all/all
J
http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1177922
S, some of the comments about raw players moving up does suggest your theory that they judge off of potential and not production.
Rivals top Five Teams: 1. Bama 2. Horns 3. LSU 4. Fla State 5. USC.
Did you notice that Saban has not raided Louisiana this year?
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/teamrank/2011/all/all
J
Dallas Staff Shaping Up
As much as I am surprised with Jason Garrett seemingly having an influence over the coaching staff, I am pleased with the direction they are taking.
I have grown weary of hearing coaches say that is if the players run the schemes correctly it will work and only minor adjustments are needed. We have heard this since Big Bill took over.
Ryan will blitz and send people all over the field while trying to confuse the offenses.
I have always placed Garrett and his ineffective Red Zone Offense in this category of the stubborn.
Maybe a change is happening?
Now we have an Asst OLine Coach coming in for and interview named Matthews. Wow.
Bruce Matthews, a truly all time great player with brains and experience with techniques from offenses that know how to run the ball. Maybe he can teach Houck a few tricks next year with dealing with this underachieving bunch of fat backs.
When I originally saw the Cowboy schedule for next year, I was thinking 8-8 at best. Maybe, just maybe, Dallas will look like they not only have the talent, but have other teams confused with their schemes.
J
I have grown weary of hearing coaches say that is if the players run the schemes correctly it will work and only minor adjustments are needed. We have heard this since Big Bill took over.
Ryan will blitz and send people all over the field while trying to confuse the offenses.
I have always placed Garrett and his ineffective Red Zone Offense in this category of the stubborn.
Maybe a change is happening?
Now we have an Asst OLine Coach coming in for and interview named Matthews. Wow.
Bruce Matthews, a truly all time great player with brains and experience with techniques from offenses that know how to run the ball. Maybe he can teach Houck a few tricks next year with dealing with this underachieving bunch of fat backs.
When I originally saw the Cowboy schedule for next year, I was thinking 8-8 at best. Maybe, just maybe, Dallas will look like they not only have the talent, but have other teams confused with their schemes.
J
Monday, January 17, 2011
I found this on a Espn Blog. http://espn.go.com/blog/dallas/cowboys/
A comment from Patrick Crayton, (who you no I don't have much respect for in the form of brilliant statements.)
He attacks Dez Bryant, Wade Bryant and I read it as Ray Sherman.
A comment from Patrick Crayton, (who you no I don't have much respect for in the form of brilliant statements.)
He attacks Dez Bryant, Wade Bryant and I read it as Ray Sherman.
But former Cowboys wide receiver Patrick Crayton had this to say about Bryant on the Ben & Skin Show on Friday: "They let him get away with a lot of stuff. A lot of stuff. Hopefully whoever they bring in as receivers coach, and they say [Jason] Garrett is a disciplinarian, won't let him get away with so much stuff. He'll get locked down and hopefully be the next Michael Irvin."j
Sunday, January 16, 2011
QB Discussion
I heard a radio segment last week where the host attempted to discredit Brady as an all-time great QB. He based his research on how many times Brady and other QB's ranked in the top 5 during a season in 1 of 5 vital stats: Completion %, TD passes, Passing Yards, Yards per Attempt, and QB Rating. Basically he was saying that an all-time great should be among the league leaders on a regular basis and he said Brady had relatively few compared to people such as Unitas, Marino, Manning, etc.
Obviously rating a QB is a tough business. The coach, the system, the era, many things go into it, which is why it is always a passionate debate. Many people love the stats guys and many people love the "winners". I didn't have easy access to top 5 finishes without spending hours, so I just looked up the number of times these QB's actually led the league in 1 of those categories. So, the number below represents how many times the QB led the league in 1 of the categories above during his career.
Steve Young - 20
Otto Graham - 20
John Unitas - 15
Peyton Manning - 10
Dan Marino - 10
Dan Fouts - 10
Joe Montana - 10
Tom Brady - 9
Bart Starr - 8
Roger Staubach - 7
Joe Namath - 6
Brett Favre - 6
Fran Tarkenton - 5
Terry Bradshaw - 4
Warren Moon - 3
John Elway - 1
Troy Aikman - 1
S
Obviously rating a QB is a tough business. The coach, the system, the era, many things go into it, which is why it is always a passionate debate. Many people love the stats guys and many people love the "winners". I didn't have easy access to top 5 finishes without spending hours, so I just looked up the number of times these QB's actually led the league in 1 of those categories. So, the number below represents how many times the QB led the league in 1 of the categories above during his career.
Steve Young - 20
Otto Graham - 20
John Unitas - 15
Peyton Manning - 10
Dan Marino - 10
Dan Fouts - 10
Joe Montana - 10
Tom Brady - 9
Bart Starr - 8
Roger Staubach - 7
Joe Namath - 6
Brett Favre - 6
Fran Tarkenton - 5
Terry Bradshaw - 4
Warren Moon - 3
John Elway - 1
Troy Aikman - 1
S
Super Bowl Predictor
Since we are so close to the game, I thought I would bring my Super Bowl Predictor out for a review.
This is for the Super Bowl not the Divisional Games. This does not have a home field advantage because of the Super Bowl only stats.
Winner:
Green Bay wins in Chicago.
Pittsburg wins vs Jets
Green Bay wins Superbowl.
If Chicago beats Green Bay. The Steelers or the Jets would win.
So currently we go with the fabulous coach of the Packers.
A summary of my research for the last 13 games.
Summary of reasoning: Total Offenses, Defenses, Points scored and allowed, Differential of each, Ranking in each category vs each other based on regular season stats.
Higher ranked Defense in yards allowed. 6 of 13 winners.
Higher ranked Offensive yards 6 of 13 winners
Higher ranked in Offensive pts per game 7 of 13 winners
Higher ranked in fewest points allowed per game 8 of 13 winners.
Point Differential Points scored Points allowed. 10 of 13 winners.
J
This is for the Super Bowl not the Divisional Games. This does not have a home field advantage because of the Super Bowl only stats.
Winner:
Green Bay wins in Chicago.
Pittsburg wins vs Jets
Green Bay wins Superbowl.
If Chicago beats Green Bay. The Steelers or the Jets would win.
So currently we go with the fabulous coach of the Packers.
A summary of my research for the last 13 games.
Summary of reasoning: Total Offenses, Defenses, Points scored and allowed, Differential of each, Ranking in each category vs each other based on regular season stats.
Higher ranked Defense in yards allowed. 6 of 13 winners.
Higher ranked Offensive yards 6 of 13 winners
Higher ranked in Offensive pts per game 7 of 13 winners
Higher ranked in fewest points allowed per game 8 of 13 winners.
Point Differential Points scored Points allowed. 10 of 13 winners.
J
1000th Post. Cowboys and Rob Ryan.
It has been an interesting year with this blog.
I am glad that sources are reporting the Cowboys are signing Rex Ryan as Defensive Coordinator.
I hope he has his family magic with keeping teams off balance.
His record through the years has not been dominating, but he does seem to keep games close.
My favorite part of his defense is the multiple looks and willingness to move people around to expose weaknesses.
One thing about Ryan that we know, he did inherit the Ryan's ability to influence his players, everything I have seen shows that his players love him and his bravado. Emotional play in Dallas hasn't been evident since Jimmy Johnson left.
J.
I am glad that sources are reporting the Cowboys are signing Rex Ryan as Defensive Coordinator.
I hope he has his family magic with keeping teams off balance.
His record through the years has not been dominating, but he does seem to keep games close.
My favorite part of his defense is the multiple looks and willingness to move people around to expose weaknesses.
One thing about Ryan that we know, he did inherit the Ryan's ability to influence his players, everything I have seen shows that his players love him and his bravado. Emotional play in Dallas hasn't been evident since Jimmy Johnson left.
J.
More NFL Draft Stuff
I read J's post about the Cowboys roster with amusement. Mosely wants to cut half the team, but where do we find new players? Rick Gosselin wrote this week giving teams his post-season grade on their draft last spring. The Cowboys got a D. Shocking. Only Dez kept them from getting an F. Once again, no value as the rounds went past.
Up in New England, Bellicheat realized he needed to rebuild so he drafted 8 players who made the roster and 4 who start. Tampa also drafted 4 starters and went 10-6. The 'Boys drafted just 3 who made the roster with no starters (yet, Lee and Bryant will obviously be starters). The great organizations consistently cut their old and ineffective players and replenish with the draft. Dallas has few options to replace all these under-performers because we can't draft in the vital rounds 2-4.
S
Up in New England, Bellicheat realized he needed to rebuild so he drafted 8 players who made the roster and 4 who start. Tampa also drafted 4 starters and went 10-6. The 'Boys drafted just 3 who made the roster with no starters (yet, Lee and Bryant will obviously be starters). The great organizations consistently cut their old and ineffective players and replenish with the draft. Dallas has few options to replace all these under-performers because we can't draft in the vital rounds 2-4.
S
Bobby Boyd - Unknown TX Football Legend
I like running across stories like this. Billed as "Garland's answer to Doak Walker", Bobby Boyd led Garland to the state title game in 1955 and made all-american. Recruited to Oklahoma, he quarterbacked for Bud Wilkinson and was all-Big 8. Drafted in the 10th round by the Colts, he switched to corner and was all-pro 3 times, made the 60's all-decade team, and played in the Namath super bowl. His real talent was interceptions, turns out he is the all-time NFL leader in interceptions per season at 6.3. He had 2 seasons with 9 picks and only twice had less than 6 in 9 full seasons. Still lives in Garland. How can an all-decade corner who holds the NFL record for int/season and totalled 57 not be a HOF'er?
S
S
Aaron Rodgers
For some reason I've had a hard time warming up to Aaron Rodgers with so many people telling us how good he is. But, yesterday was a complete clinic on QB play. Atlanta may not be an elite team, but seeing a 13-win team carved up like that was impressive. Rodgers moves great, has a much better arm than I gave him credit for, throws on the run, and is amazingly calm. How about 31 for 36 with 10 yds/attempt! No mistakes. I know J loves McCarthy, so this tandem could be a force for some time to come.
S
S
Friday, January 14, 2011
Airline Game
Tonight Airline is honoring the undefeated team from 1984 or 85, I cannot remember the year.
S, I posted this because I know you remember them well.
That team had an NBA player, a sixth man that was leading scorer in state the next year and is currently an asst coach at Texas A&M. And last but not least the most talented player at Airline since McConathy that didn't understand the importance of his actions. After being Dean Smith and John Thompson he never fulfilled the potential.
It was a well coached team that was a true joy to watch.
J
S, I posted this because I know you remember them well.
That team had an NBA player, a sixth man that was leading scorer in state the next year and is currently an asst coach at Texas A&M. And last but not least the most talented player at Airline since McConathy that didn't understand the importance of his actions. After being Dean Smith and John Thompson he never fulfilled the potential.
It was a well coached team that was a true joy to watch.
J
Texas 5A Championship Game Draws People Than Almost Half of Bowls.
S, While sitting at the game and watching the announced crowd of 43,000plus, I remember your direct comment (adjectives deleted) that they were incorrect in the attendance figure and it was much larger.
I still do not know if they started counting with tickets sold after the morning games for the Trinity - Pearland game attendance, but I found a picture on my phone that shows the decks being filled with the exception of the top level.
j
I still do not know if they started counting with tickets sold after the morning games for the Trinity - Pearland game attendance, but I found a picture on my phone that shows the decks being filled with the exception of the top level.
j
Word is that the Cowboys are talking to Buddy's Boy.
Early in the season, I blogged on this move to hire Rob Ryan, but I never expected it to be a possibility.
Ryan has multiple formations that he uses and will blitz at anytime, I would support this completely.
This would really be an interesting hire, especially with his Dad's well known hatred for the Cowboys and the Bounty Bowl against Dallas players.
Can you imagine seeing Buddy Ryan at a Cowboys game and pulling for America's Team?
J
Ryan has multiple formations that he uses and will blitz at anytime, I would support this completely.
This would really be an interesting hire, especially with his Dad's well known hatred for the Cowboys and the Bounty Bowl against Dallas players.
Can you imagine seeing Buddy Ryan at a Cowboys game and pulling for America's Team?
J
Cowboys Players - Should they be let go.
http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nfl/columns/story?columnist=mosley_matt&id=6018524
Mosley for Espn wrote a column and discussed whether he would keep each player. His cuts were far more severe than the ones I listed previously. Interesting read.
Some of his cuts.- Spenser, Davis, Columbo, Kosier, Newman, Barber, Brooking and Bueller.
I have no argument based on their productivity, but I the Cowboys and Jones have never developed people and the drafting is just horrible.
S, this article sound just like your comments on the cuts and I thought you would like it.
J.
Mosley for Espn wrote a column and discussed whether he would keep each player. His cuts were far more severe than the ones I listed previously. Interesting read.
Some of his cuts.- Spenser, Davis, Columbo, Kosier, Newman, Barber, Brooking and Bueller.
I have no argument based on their productivity, but I the Cowboys and Jones have never developed people and the drafting is just horrible.
S, this article sound just like your comments on the cuts and I thought you would like it.
J.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Newton as a Pro
I see where Cam declared for the draft today. This will be the first of many posts I'm sure as we discuss his merits as a pro QB. McShay has him as 3rd QB and 27th overall. The debate will continue as to whether a pro franchise can make that kind of investment in a QB who will try to include his running skills in the gameplan and risk injury. Do those skills help or hinder the development of his passing game? As we've said, a pro QB has to have such a mind-boggling set of physical and mental skills to succeed, and the running talent can obscure those mental deficiencies. I'll watch with interest as Newton goes through the evaluation process and teams try to figure out whether he's worth the risk.
S
S
UNC?
A short post: what in God's name has happened to Roy Williams and North Carolina? 2 years ago they ruled the game; now Duke is back on top and the Heels are just terrible. Hard to watch.
S
S
Cable TV and the Bowl Games
How many people wonder how much the NCAA Football Teams gave up in popularity with the BIG money Espn Deal. A point to ponder, is the decreased viewership in college football eventually going to hurt the popularity of College Football. The Presidents took the big money and now will have to watch the exposure dimenish for awhile.
j
j
Wilt and Russell
One of the things I was looking forward to in reading the Bill Simmons basketball book was his chapter on the Wilt/Russell debate. First, Simmons was a Celtic fan and they revere the "Celtic way". Given that, he puts together a broad and passionate case that Russell was not only a better player, but that it wasn't close.
Before we get into that, let's state that in 142 games that they played against each other, Wilt averaged 29 pts and 29 boards, while Russell avg'd 15 and 24. That's the backdrop of the chapter.
Simmons builds his case on a few cornerstones:
S
Before we get into that, let's state that in 142 games that they played against each other, Wilt averaged 29 pts and 29 boards, while Russell avg'd 15 and 24. That's the backdrop of the chapter.
Simmons builds his case on a few cornerstones:
- In those head to head match-ups, Russell won 84 times and Wilt 58. He furthers goes into much detail to show that the supporting casts on Wilt's teams were every bit as good as Russell's. He cites number of all-stars and hall-of-famers on each player's roster during those match-ups. Basically during the time we're talking about, with only 8 teams in the league, everyone had great players.
- Russell won 11 championships and Wilt 2. It's sort of the Bradshaw vs. Marino thing, but Simmons goes to great lengths to show that the Celtics won those 11 because of Russell, while the Warriors, Sixers, and Lakers lost in crunch time because Wilt was a choker and couldn't shoot free throws.
- During the heighth of his fame, Wilt was traded by 2 different teams, both getting less than face value for him. If you look at the players involved in the trades, you would conclude that the teams were trying to dump Wilt at any cost. When the Warriors were shopping him in '65, the Lakers owner polled his players to see if they wanted him to pursue Wilt. The players voted overwhelmingly 'no'.
- In playoff games, Russell 'held' Wilt to 22 pts/gm and scored 16 himself. Simmons asserts that Russell played head games with Wilt during the regular season, allowing him the stats, while knowing he could clamp down in the playoffs.
- The most damning evidence comes through contemporary player quotes. Many former players including both teammates and opponents slammed Wilt as selfish, clueless, immature, a choker, etc. I'm talking players such as Bill Bradley, Jerry Lucas, Jerry West, Rick Barry, John Havlicek and coaches as well. They paint a picture of a player obsessed with stats, who avoided the ball late in games so he wouldn't be embarrassed, and who threw his teammates under the bus.
S
Crowton is officially Gone. He is on his way to Maryland.
Finally the Miles-Crowton combo is finished. What a catastrophe it has been with the offense since the National Championship team. (LSU was 112th in total offense in 2009 and 107th in passing offense in 2010.)
From a purely speculative point, I believe that Miles told Crowton to go seek opportunities while he still had a job. He did this with his Co-Defensive Coordinators previously when they left.
Miles does some very classy things for people he employees.
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20110113/SPORTS0202/110113017/1028
J
From a purely speculative point, I believe that Miles told Crowton to go seek opportunities while he still had a job. He did this with his Co-Defensive Coordinators previously when they left.
Miles does some very classy things for people he employees.
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20110113/SPORTS0202/110113017/1028
J
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Les Miles
During the last 6 years, I have butchered Miles on more than a few occasions. To this very moment, my thoughts remain the same on his job as a facilitator to his coaches and his ability to recognize the most talented players on his roster. I just don't think he is capable of judging things without an open mind and will let his heart get in the way.
But, I am not upset that he is still in Baton Rouge, it shocks me to say it, but it is true.
Miles ability to recruit is just amazing! It will allow LSU fans to be close to another title for years to come. LSU fans had spent over 40 years just savoring the years when LSU would actually be a Top 10 type team. These years were rare and everyone knows Saban changed all of that with his recruiting and coaching. But, Miles has maintained the talent level, while beating the best teams in America fairly often. On a purely speculative matter, I really believe as coaches go, he is a good influence on most of the kids.
So you will have to bear with me during the years, I will be ripping Miles for his inability to adjust and his aptitude for doing the wrong thing at the wrong time.
j
But, I am not upset that he is still in Baton Rouge, it shocks me to say it, but it is true.
Miles ability to recruit is just amazing! It will allow LSU fans to be close to another title for years to come. LSU fans had spent over 40 years just savoring the years when LSU would actually be a Top 10 type team. These years were rare and everyone knows Saban changed all of that with his recruiting and coaching. But, Miles has maintained the talent level, while beating the best teams in America fairly often. On a purely speculative matter, I really believe as coaches go, he is a good influence on most of the kids.
So you will have to bear with me during the years, I will be ripping Miles for his inability to adjust and his aptitude for doing the wrong thing at the wrong time.
j
NAIA POLL-LSUS No 1.
S, I thought you would want to see the current top billing for your Alma Mater.
We have often discussed the skill level of some of these players, so I have added a link that shows
87 NBA players that played in NAIA.
http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/091005aaa.html
We have often discussed the skill level of some of these players, so I have added a link that shows
87 NBA players that played in NAIA.
http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/091005aaa.html
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
New Blood in Austin
Well I've read a few things about Mack's new hires and most of it is positive. I think he's smart to go younger and bring fresh ideas to the program. Harsin is a disciple of balanced offense and his philosophies should play well in the Big 12. People are asking the question, how much freedom will Mack give Harsin to run the multiple formations and gadgets that gave Boise it's identity? Yes, Boise runs 50% of the time, but it's not a conventional rush offense. Hopefully Mack has abandoned his misguided attempt to go old school on offense. Meanwhile Diaz just helped resurrect Miss St and most recently held Rich Rod's offense to 14 points on New Years Day. These seem like good hires, but time will tell. The 'Horns currently have the top ranked class for the coming signing day.
S
S
Miles Crushes Tiger Fans Hope
After getting fired up about Les going home to Michigan, he did the unexpected yet again and dashed my hopes for a new regime in Baton Rouge. So, we go forward with the 5th best coach in the SEC West. We can only hope that he fires Crowton and goes with some fresh blood, and will play Mettenberg next year. Once again, he will have superior talent if only he could maximize it. I stick with my opinion that he will end up leaving Baton Rouge with the program mired in mediocrity, something like Georgia is experiencing right now. I hope I'm wrong.
S
S
SEC
This debate on other conferences being equal to the SEC is now even more assinine.
Since the BCS started in 1999, the SEC has 5 teams with BCS titles... Only the Big 12 has 2 teams., Big 10-1 team, ACC-1, Big East-1. Pac 10 has none. USC;s 1 was vacated for cheating.
The SEC has won 8 titles in the 12 recorded BCS Champions. (67% of BCS Titles)
Now the SEC has 5 National Champions in a row.
The Best SEC team has not lost a Bowl game in a decade.
If Auburn had not been robbed by the media and given OKLA and the USC cheaters a shot in 2005 it would 6 Titles in a row and 9 of the 13 games.
1999-Tenn
2004-LSU
2005-Auburn - Currently Vacant. What should have been Auburn.
2006 texas
2007 Florida
2008 LSU
2009 Florida
2010 Alabama
2011 Auburn
Amazing dominance by the SEC.
They should only play only teams in Bowl games that have similar conference records.
The SEC might not ever lose a Bowl Game.
When KY at 2-6 in SEC is playing Big East Co-Champs it is just not reasonable.
J
Since the BCS started in 1999, the SEC has 5 teams with BCS titles... Only the Big 12 has 2 teams., Big 10-1 team, ACC-1, Big East-1. Pac 10 has none. USC;s 1 was vacated for cheating.
The SEC has won 8 titles in the 12 recorded BCS Champions. (67% of BCS Titles)
Now the SEC has 5 National Champions in a row.
The Best SEC team has not lost a Bowl game in a decade.
If Auburn had not been robbed by the media and given OKLA and the USC cheaters a shot in 2005 it would 6 Titles in a row and 9 of the 13 games.
1999-Tenn
2004-LSU
2005-Auburn - Currently Vacant. What should have been Auburn.
2006 texas
2007 Florida
2008 LSU
2009 Florida
2010 Alabama
2011 Auburn
Amazing dominance by the SEC.
They should only play only teams in Bowl games that have similar conference records.
The SEC might not ever lose a Bowl Game.
When KY at 2-6 in SEC is playing Big East Co-Champs it is just not reasonable.
J
Auburn My Quick Take
Auburn was much bigger and faster than Oregon, the difference was larger than I expected.
Auburn squandered a two or three TD win with sloppy play. Newton looked very pedestrian for most of the game. I could not telll how many injuries he is playing with the, but the Ducks are lucky Big Cam was less than normal.
The Oregon O and D lines did not match up at all and the speed of the DLineman for Auburn seemed to equal the QB and some backs. The running game for Oregon seemed overwhelmed by the strength. But the schemes from Kelly can find openings and big plays. The problem is the problem is that those plays are not touchdowns when the defensive backs are faster than the offense. Great Coaching in Oregon.
Chip Kelley should go to Baton Rouge so he can experience having superior talent to the champion Auburn Tigers. He can get his revenge yearly coaching at LSU and probably add a Trophy or two for himself.
J
Auburn squandered a two or three TD win with sloppy play. Newton looked very pedestrian for most of the game. I could not telll how many injuries he is playing with the, but the Ducks are lucky Big Cam was less than normal.
The Oregon O and D lines did not match up at all and the speed of the DLineman for Auburn seemed to equal the QB and some backs. The running game for Oregon seemed overwhelmed by the strength. But the schemes from Kelly can find openings and big plays. The problem is the problem is that those plays are not touchdowns when the defensive backs are faster than the offense. Great Coaching in Oregon.
Chip Kelley should go to Baton Rouge so he can experience having superior talent to the champion Auburn Tigers. He can get his revenge yearly coaching at LSU and probably add a Trophy or two for himself.
J
Monday, January 10, 2011
Wolverines are in Town
 Les must have agreed to terms and Lawyers are finishing the details. J |
| Add caption |
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Dallas Coverage of Cotton Bowl
The general theme reading over the Dallas sportswriters' coverage of the Cotton Bowl is that A&M got brutally pushed around and they should sit tight and ignore any overtures from the SEC. No one thought they were anywhere near ready for the level of play they would face if they were to move over. The writers here know the score, they weren't making any excuses.
S
S
Beltre to Rangers
My initial thoughts on Adrian Beltre signing with Texas: he's only had a couple of really impressive offensive years, both during contract years, and he's prone to throwing in some .260 seasons regularly; his defense is considered top of the heap and he will be a big upgrade there over Young; as for Michael, he is an incredibly class act stepping aside yet again for the good of the team. All in all, Beltre should replace Guerrero's numbers or close, and he will make the defense much better.
S
S
NFL Coach Rankings by Fraley
My favorite columnist, Fraley published an NFL coach ranking today based on points accumulated by obtaining winning seasons, playoff appearances, advancing in the playoffs, winning championships, and turning around bad franchises. He started in 1989 when JJ took over in Dallas and ranked all coaches hired since then. Below are some of the scores, starting with the leader, Andy Reid......
Andy Reid - 116.5 pts
Belichick - 116
Holmgren - 110.5
Cowher - 92
J.J. - 84
Seifert - 82
Shanahan - 76
Dungy - 55
Fisher - only 41 pts
Coughlin - 35
Sean Payton - already 36 pts
John Fox - 48
Dennis Green - just 37
Spurrier/Saban/Petrino combined - 1 pt
This grade scale was used to award points to NFL head coach hires since 1989: (1) winning season; (2) playoff spot; (3) win in wild-card round; (5) win in divisional round; (7) Win in conference title game; (10) win in Super Bowl. Score multiplied by 1.5 if head coach took over a club that had had two consecutive losing seasons.
S
Andy Reid - 116.5 pts
Belichick - 116
Holmgren - 110.5
Cowher - 92
J.J. - 84
Seifert - 82
Shanahan - 76
Dungy - 55
Fisher - only 41 pts
Coughlin - 35
Sean Payton - already 36 pts
John Fox - 48
Dennis Green - just 37
Spurrier/Saban/Petrino combined - 1 pt
This grade scale was used to award points to NFL head coach hires since 1989: (1) winning season; (2) playoff spot; (3) win in wild-card round; (5) win in divisional round; (7) Win in conference title game; (10) win in Super Bowl. Score multiplied by 1.5 if head coach took over a club that had had two consecutive losing seasons.
S
Comments:
I am so glad you posted this article. It was a great article and confirmed many thoughts about Reid. If you add the years to the quotient you get a different hierarchy.
I am finishing the system with some of the greats with a per year number. j
Suh and Hester
J might not want to admit he was wrong about Matt Ryan and Sam Bradford, but on Ndamukong Suh there can be no doubt. Reading Rick Gosselin's all-NFL team today, he claims that Suh is already the best D-tackle in the league and this year as a rookie became the first tackle since Warren Sapp to register 10 sacks in a season.
On another note, let's stop again to appreciate Devin Hester who this season set the NFL record with his 14th kick/punt return for a TD and also set the single season record with a staggering 17.1 average on punt returns. He returned 33 punts with 3 TD's this year alone. Hester is someone I'll remember when I'm old.
S
On another note, let's stop again to appreciate Devin Hester who this season set the NFL record with his 14th kick/punt return for a TD and also set the single season record with a staggering 17.1 average on punt returns. He returned 33 punts with 3 TD's this year alone. Hester is someone I'll remember when I'm old.
S
Garrett's Reign Starts
I must admit surprise at the non-renewal of Ray Sherman as WR coach. Sherman has been given a lot of credit for helping develop Miles and Bryant. He was also praised for settling down TO and Bryant on the sidelines, even though I think it needs to be stopped not just appease their rants.
After I took a minute to think about the Dallas WR's, I started to remember the dropped passes and numerous complaints that TO, Roy UNOUNO and now Bryant have problems knowing what thier assignment is supposed to be. It became more reasonable to let Sherman go and help another team.
J
After I took a minute to think about the Dallas WR's, I started to remember the dropped passes and numerous complaints that TO, Roy UNOUNO and now Bryant have problems knowing what thier assignment is supposed to be. It became more reasonable to let Sherman go and help another team.
J
Friday, January 7, 2011
Tribute to Jamaal Charles.
When the year started I was screaming about Haley not starting Jamaal Charles.
Charles ended the year at 6.38 yards per carry when 6.4 would have tied Jim Brown's record.
Here is the really sad part. Haley never let gave his player a chance to break the record.
I found this story in Kansas City paper.
Charles averaged 5.9 last year.
J
Charles ended the year at 6.38 yards per carry when 6.4 would have tied Jim Brown's record.
Here is the really sad part. Haley never let gave his player a chance to break the record.
I found this story in Kansas City paper.
With 7:55 to play, Charles took a handoff and ran to his right before being stopped for a loss of a yard. He didn’t get another carry. If that play had never happened, Charles would have finished his spectacular season having averaged 6.41 yards per carry, one-hundredth of a yard better than Jim Brown’s 47-year-old record for rushing average.
Instead, that one carry — one that, in another season or in another game, might have been meaningless — will keep Charles at 6.38 yards per carry for the 2010 season.
Read more: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/01/02/2556535/charles-misses-out-on-chance-for.html#ixzz1APbDfzxC
Charles averaged 5.9 last year.
J
Maybe, Now we know why Mike Leach isn't a hot commodity.
Texas Tech was placed on two years of probation for recruiting violations, saying 16 coaches or assistants sent nearly 1,000 impermissible text messages to football and a couple of minor sports.
Leach- "Our staff didn't understand that they weren't allowed to text,"
His excuse...
"Somebody would say 'Merry Christmas' and I would say 'Merry Christmas' back or I would get, 'Nice win against A&M' and I would reply 'Thanks," he said.
I really like the guy as a coach, but time to Man Up.
J
Leach- "Our staff didn't understand that they weren't allowed to text,"
His excuse...
"Somebody would say 'Merry Christmas' and I would say 'Merry Christmas' back or I would get, 'Nice win against A&M' and I would reply 'Thanks," he said.
I really like the guy as a coach, but time to Man Up.
J
Let's Talk Harbaugh and Michigan Academics
I was reading Sports by Brooks and he posted Harbaugh's comments and then a current Michigan players comment.
J
“College football needs Stanford. We’re looking not for student athletes but scholar-athletes. No other school can carry this banner. The Ivy League schools don’t have enough weight [because of their low athletic level]. Other schools which have good academic reputations have ways to get borderline athletes in and keep them in.”"Michigan is a good school and I got a good education there,” he said, “but the athletic department has ways to get borderline guys in and, when they’re in, they steer them to courses in sports communications. They’re adulated when they’re playing, but when they get out, the people who adulated them won’t hire them.”
Quarterback Tate Forcier for the Wolverines didn’t back away when confronted about the remarks by the DETROIT FREE PRESS:
“I would use myself as an example. I came in there, wanted to be a history major, and I was told early on in my freshman year that I shouldn’t be. That it takes too much time. Too much reading. That I shouldn’t be a history major and play football.”
TCU Fans Taking Shot at Big 10's commish
Multiple billboards congratulating TCU on its Rose Bowl victory -- and making a jab at Ohio State president E. Gordon Gee -- popped up in Columbus, Ohio, several days after the Horned Frogs defeated Wisconsin 21-19 on Saturday.A direct response to his questioning whether they belonged in BCS games because they play schedules with Little Sisters of the Poor.
I found this on a Espn blog and it is priceless.
Cam just cannot say NO.
Here he goes again. This is a tweet during the Lakers-Suns Game this week.
I wonder if the NCAA is doing back flips rights now.
Maybe not since Ohio State found a loop hole to prevent a suspension during a bowl game.
Charles Barkley should have known better:
Wait! Is that an OXYMORON for me to say Barkley should have known something?
J
During the game, prominent Birmingham TV personality and WJOX-FM radio host Jim Dunaway Tweeted, “Hanging at Lakers-Suns… Pugh and most Auburn players in upper deck…Cam in lower bowl. Thanks Barkley for the tix.”
I wonder if the NCAA is doing back flips rights now.
Maybe not since Ohio State found a loop hole to prevent a suspension during a bowl game.
Charles Barkley should have known better:
Wait! Is that an OXYMORON for me to say Barkley should have known something?
J
Gotta Love Rex Ryan
Maybe we are not alone in the Manning-Brady debate.
Our blog has numerous breakdowns of their careers.
Rex Baby took it to the national spotlight.
Wow...Love it.
J
Our blog has numerous breakdowns of their careers.
Rex Baby took it to the national spotlight.
Ryan said that “nobody” studies like Peyton Manning, the Indianapolis Colts quarterback whom the Jets face in a wild-card playoff matchup Saturday night in Indianapolis.
“I know Brady thinks he does,” Ryan said while tweaking Brady. “I think there’s a little more help from (Bill) Belichick with Brady than there is with Peyton Manning.”
Wow...Love it.
J
Miles to Michigan talk.
With the discussions of Miles going to Michigan, the subject was broached on Rivals Radio this morning.
Bill King said he would not assume to say that Miles would not, but he did not have a feeling.
The talk went to a LSU replacement and Jimbo Fisher was brought up, King did not Jimbo would leave Florida State.
He aslo discussed Richt at Georgia and basically doubted his sanity. Richt said in his post season conference that he would not make any changes on offense. The King compared him to Fullmer at Tennessee saying he couldn't see the forest for the trees.
j
Bill King said he would not assume to say that Miles would not, but he did not have a feeling.
The talk went to a LSU replacement and Jimbo Fisher was brought up, King did not Jimbo would leave Florida State.
He aslo discussed Richt at Georgia and basically doubted his sanity. Richt said in his post season conference that he would not make any changes on offense. The King compared him to Fullmer at Tennessee saying he couldn't see the forest for the trees.
j
Jason Garrett, Marvin Lewis, Tony Sparano
Jerry has finally placed his final bet on this Princeton Grad.
Giving Red Jesus the keys to the America's team is a chance I am not sure I would have done, but I do understand Garrett's appeal.
He did a fine job with this team of undisciplined group during the last 8 games. His offense has been productive as statistical machine during his tenure at as Asst Head Coach. But!!! He has been my prime target in the lack of discipline on the Oline and lack of production in the Red Zone. I will share the blame on the OLine with the incredible ineffective and highest paid offensive line coach named Hudson Houck.
Well, I hope Red Jesus takes us to the promise land and proves capable of controlling Jerry and his ridiculous job as GM. Jerry went so far as to opine that Garrett will have final say in coaches and players....Does anyone remotely believe this line.
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While I am on subjects of the RIDICULOUS
=======================
Did Marvin Lewis really give an ultimatum for changes to the Brown family or he wouldn't return to Cincy? In 8 years Mr. Lewis has 2,, TWO!!!!winning seasons. Why in the world would anyone in Cincy want him back?
To make matters worse, they resigned him.
----------------------------------
In Miami. Tony Sparano takes a team that was 1-15 to 11-5, 7-9 and 7-9.
The ownership then without firing Sparano, goes public that they recruited Cowher and Harbaugh.
They reportedly were prepared to offer an annual salary between $7 million and $8 million.
Now that is working for a bad owner!
J
Giving Red Jesus the keys to the America's team is a chance I am not sure I would have done, but I do understand Garrett's appeal.
He did a fine job with this team of undisciplined group during the last 8 games. His offense has been productive as statistical machine during his tenure at as Asst Head Coach. But!!! He has been my prime target in the lack of discipline on the Oline and lack of production in the Red Zone. I will share the blame on the OLine with the incredible ineffective and highest paid offensive line coach named Hudson Houck.
Well, I hope Red Jesus takes us to the promise land and proves capable of controlling Jerry and his ridiculous job as GM. Jerry went so far as to opine that Garrett will have final say in coaches and players....Does anyone remotely believe this line.
-----------------------------------------
While I am on subjects of the RIDICULOUS
=======================
Did Marvin Lewis really give an ultimatum for changes to the Brown family or he wouldn't return to Cincy? In 8 years Mr. Lewis has 2,, TWO!!!!winning seasons. Why in the world would anyone in Cincy want him back?
To make matters worse, they resigned him.
----------------------------------
In Miami. Tony Sparano takes a team that was 1-15 to 11-5, 7-9 and 7-9.
The ownership then without firing Sparano, goes public that they recruited Cowher and Harbaugh.
They reportedly were prepared to offer an annual salary between $7 million and $8 million.
Now that is working for a bad owner!
J
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Les the Unappreciated?
Reading our paper today there is a story about our favorite mad hatter. Looking at the numbers anyone outside the LSU nation would think we're idiots to want him gone.
S
- 10 wins in 4 out of 6 seasons
- 61-17 overall or an average of 10-3 per season
- 22-13 vs. top 25 opponents
- 4-1 in bowl games
S
MLB HOF 2011
Alomar passes my smell test, barely for the HOF; 10-time gold glove winner, .300 hitter, over 400 stolen bases, over 500 doubles, 12-time all-star, and was more importantly considered the best 2nd baseman of the era.
Bert Blyleven on the other hand does not, and not even close. 287-250, 3.31 ERA, never led the league in wins, never led the league in ERA, led in strikeouts 1 time. He was never among the best 3,4, or even 5 pitchers in the game at any one time. His 60 shutouts are impressive, but he was not great. He belongs in the "hall of very good".
S
Bert Blyleven on the other hand does not, and not even close. 287-250, 3.31 ERA, never led the league in wins, never led the league in ERA, led in strikeouts 1 time. He was never among the best 3,4, or even 5 pitchers in the game at any one time. His 60 shutouts are impressive, but he was not great. He belongs in the "hall of very good".
S
J.J. Redick - Nice Story
My previous dislike for Duke is well-known, but I was a big J.J. Redick fan in college, mostly because I just liked his game. Labeled as a bust in the NBA, Redick has dug deep and 4 years into his career has forged a place for himself in Orlando. Now getting 25 min/gm and averaging over 10 points for the first time, he has become a favorite of Van Gundy and often plays in crunch time. Armed with some confidence he's finally showing the shooting touch he was supposed to have, hitting 45% from 3-pt range. I enjoy a story like this, where a guy was forgotten, but continued to work hard and has made a place for himself in the league. Good for him.
S
S
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
St John's
How impressive is St John's last 3 road wins.
Lavin has a young team and they won at West Va, Providence and Georgetown.
The Big East is really fun to watch.
J
Lavin has a young team and they won at West Va, Providence and Georgetown.
The Big East is really fun to watch.
J
Arkansas-Ohio State.
Of all of the Big 10 teams, Ohio State is by far the most talented.
They do have SEC type skill players.
Arkansas on the other hand, is still building and once you get past the starters on offense and defense
they become extremely young. This is cause for much concern.
My hope is that Arkansas can handle the initial onslaught of Ohio State without losing composure on defense.
Those big beef eaters will have a scheme to push the Hog lineman out and let prior have a few play action passes. The 3rd quarter for Arkansas is the key, will they still be able to move the ball after the Ohio State adjustments.
I think they will or at least I hope they can.
J
They do have SEC type skill players.
Arkansas on the other hand, is still building and once you get past the starters on offense and defense
they become extremely young. This is cause for much concern.
My hope is that Arkansas can handle the initial onslaught of Ohio State without losing composure on defense.
Those big beef eaters will have a scheme to push the Hog lineman out and let prior have a few play action passes. The 3rd quarter for Arkansas is the key, will they still be able to move the ball after the Ohio State adjustments.
I think they will or at least I hope they can.
J
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Cowboys
What a relief that this season is finally over!
The final game was a pathetic display, the Eagles had most of there impact players sitting on the bench.
So lets get into where I would start with changes for next year.
Keepers.
QB's , CB's and O Line.
I do not like the line and what they have done, but it is just too difficult to replace them. I do not know who to blame. Is it the scheme? or just a lack of dedication?
Changes
WR's and TE- Williams is gone.
RB's- Barber is gone, 3 years too late.
LB's - One of those inside guys has to change. I would lean toward James, Lee needs to play.
Safeties- Take your pick, they are always getting beat.
Kickers- If they go through another year with no FG kicker people should revolt.
Coaches.
Head Coach- Unless Jerry is going to hire someone with the stones to change the drafting and coddling of the players by the GM, they might as well stay with Garrett. Maybe, just maybe, he will be smart enough to change the Jerry's mind on some issues, he and Stephen Jones are suppose to be of the same mind set.
Assistants- Special Teams - Gone, O Line Coach- Gone , Conditioning- Gone.
Defense- I am unsure what to think, they are still playing Wade's Defense and it just did not work any longer. My choices would be a high pressure with multiple formations.
Personally, I do not see anything new from what we have had the last few years. An up and down team with players that do not have the emotional edginess needed to win in the NFL on a high level.
The only chance, I see for a change is if Garrett creates an incredible complex offense that puts so much pressure on the other teams that they can win. But, nothing suggest Garrett can make happen.
j
The final game was a pathetic display, the Eagles had most of there impact players sitting on the bench.
So lets get into where I would start with changes for next year.
Keepers.
QB's , CB's and O Line.
I do not like the line and what they have done, but it is just too difficult to replace them. I do not know who to blame. Is it the scheme? or just a lack of dedication?
Changes
WR's and TE- Williams is gone.
RB's- Barber is gone, 3 years too late.
LB's - One of those inside guys has to change. I would lean toward James, Lee needs to play.
Safeties- Take your pick, they are always getting beat.
Kickers- If they go through another year with no FG kicker people should revolt.
Coaches.
Head Coach- Unless Jerry is going to hire someone with the stones to change the drafting and coddling of the players by the GM, they might as well stay with Garrett. Maybe, just maybe, he will be smart enough to change the Jerry's mind on some issues, he and Stephen Jones are suppose to be of the same mind set.
Assistants- Special Teams - Gone, O Line Coach- Gone , Conditioning- Gone.
Defense- I am unsure what to think, they are still playing Wade's Defense and it just did not work any longer. My choices would be a high pressure with multiple formations.
Personally, I do not see anything new from what we have had the last few years. An up and down team with players that do not have the emotional edginess needed to win in the NFL on a high level.
The only chance, I see for a change is if Garrett creates an incredible complex offense that puts so much pressure on the other teams that they can win. But, nothing suggest Garrett can make happen.
j
Bowl Games.
SEC - The 3-0 against the Big 10 yesterday was an impressive rebound from the mess that South Carolina played. (Maybe, I should give Jimbo credit for a drastic improvment at Fl State.)
Tennessee and Georgia had losing records in the SEC and played in the weak Eastern conference, so no surprise with Tennessee. Georgia should fire the head coach tomorrow, that is just a pitiful performance against a Conference USA team.
Now we get to watch a Kentucky team play a top Big East team on Saturday. They were 2-6 in SEC vs 5-2 Co-Champs of the Big East in Pitt.
4 more games to go. LSU and Auburn should be favored.
Arkansas should win if they survive the first quarter.
Kentucky should not be able to pull it out.
SEC 6-4 is my prediction.
Alabama's game may have sent chills through the Big 10 with the dominance they showed over a team that beat Wisconsin. A total mismatch. Mississippi State's dominance had to send Rich Rod packing, that had to be an embarrassment for the Big Blue.
Big 10- 0-5 against on New Years day. They were outscored in the 3 games against the SEC 138 - 45.
Maybe they should realign the bowl games to play the Big 12, they went 2-0 against the Big 12. They should greet Nebraska to the conference with a big kiss, it will be more of the same.
Big 12- The Oklahoma State game was impressive. Oklahoma was just on a different level with talent with UConn. TTech tried to lose the game, thank goodness Tubbs pulled it out.
I cannot say that I feel anything but disgust for Nebraska. We knew Baylor could get beaten and Missou should have beaten Iowa. Overall, bad year for the conference unless the Aggies beat LSU.
J
Tennessee and Georgia had losing records in the SEC and played in the weak Eastern conference, so no surprise with Tennessee. Georgia should fire the head coach tomorrow, that is just a pitiful performance against a Conference USA team.
Now we get to watch a Kentucky team play a top Big East team on Saturday. They were 2-6 in SEC vs 5-2 Co-Champs of the Big East in Pitt.
4 more games to go. LSU and Auburn should be favored.
Arkansas should win if they survive the first quarter.
Kentucky should not be able to pull it out.
SEC 6-4 is my prediction.
Alabama's game may have sent chills through the Big 10 with the dominance they showed over a team that beat Wisconsin. A total mismatch. Mississippi State's dominance had to send Rich Rod packing, that had to be an embarrassment for the Big Blue.
Big 10- 0-5 against on New Years day. They were outscored in the 3 games against the SEC 138 - 45.
Maybe they should realign the bowl games to play the Big 12, they went 2-0 against the Big 12. They should greet Nebraska to the conference with a big kiss, it will be more of the same.
Big 12- The Oklahoma State game was impressive. Oklahoma was just on a different level with talent with UConn. TTech tried to lose the game, thank goodness Tubbs pulled it out.
I cannot say that I feel anything but disgust for Nebraska. We knew Baylor could get beaten and Missou should have beaten Iowa. Overall, bad year for the conference unless the Aggies beat LSU.
J
TCU
I was happy that TCU won the game against the Big 10 Co-Champions.
The play in the game and the way it played out did little to change my opinion of TCU nor Wisconsin.
These are good teams, but neither would never survive against some of the teams in the SEC nor Oregon.
A quote from the Badger head coach seemed a little bit confrontational and unnecessary.
"The truth will come out when they enter into a BCS conference," he said, "and play someone of the caliber of those conferences, week in and week out."
Even though this is a very neutral comment it seems like a jab at TCU and it was not deserved.
At least TCU will get a chance to play some better quality in the Big East next year, it is a weak conference but solid enough to earn a shot at another BCS game.
J
The play in the game and the way it played out did little to change my opinion of TCU nor Wisconsin.
These are good teams, but neither would never survive against some of the teams in the SEC nor Oregon.
A quote from the Badger head coach seemed a little bit confrontational and unnecessary.
"The truth will come out when they enter into a BCS conference," he said, "and play someone of the caliber of those conferences, week in and week out."
Even though this is a very neutral comment it seems like a jab at TCU and it was not deserved.
At least TCU will get a chance to play some better quality in the Big East next year, it is a weak conference but solid enough to earn a shot at another BCS game.
J
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Gruden
I know Jon Gruden is a polarizing figure in the booth; many hate him, but I will say again that I really enjoy him. I am weary of the polished types; it's nice for me to hear some enthusiasm for the game and for the players. He is able to blend in his knowledge of X's and O's with a lot of passion and some humor. Count me as a fan.
S
S
SEC vs Big10 Day
Nothing makes my bowl season like kicking a little Big 10 booty! 3-0 today. How bad is your D if you give up 52 to Miss St.? Nice rebound after the eggs laid by SC, TN, and GA. The 2 tigers must now carry their weight.
S
S
Waiting for Rose Bowl
As I wait for the Rose Bowl I wanted to post because with all the incredible amount of media coverage and information we get it's easy to skirt past things and I wanted to point out again what a huge day this is for TCU fans and players. 13 years ago it would be difficult to imagine a more improbable event than TCU playing in the Rose Bowl. Already in a coma and left for dead after the demise of the SWC, an unknown coach and assistant arrived in Fort Worth to guide the frogs. They had little tradition, lousy facilities, and no following. Now in 2010 they play in their 2nd straight BCS game, they have joined a major conference again, they will play in a new stadium next year, and they are paying a coach nearly $2 million, and he is well worth it. After 60 years in the football darkness, TCU has climbed their way back to the biggest of stages and I hope all fans stop to appreciate this day, win or lose. Davy O'Brien and Sammy Baugh would be proud.
P.S., I can't find it in myself to think they will win today. I fear they will get beat up and may freeze up on this stage. Patterson must get them to play football, not worry about any kind of "statement", and he will have to conjure all his skills to overcome their physical disadvantage. I pray otherwise and am hoping they can stay in it and prove their worth.
S
P.S., I can't find it in myself to think they will win today. I fear they will get beat up and may freeze up on this stage. Patterson must get them to play football, not worry about any kind of "statement", and he will have to conjure all his skills to overcome their physical disadvantage. I pray otherwise and am hoping they can stay in it and prove their worth.
S
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