Hey, all! Long time no rant! Just a quick question for today.
So I've been hearing all week about how new Kansas City Chiefs QB (former Denver Broncos QB) Kyle Orton can stick it to his old team.
My question: Wasn't he already sticking it to the Broncos when he went 1-4 as their starter? I guess being responsible for 5 losses equates to "sticking it" to a team.
Just Joe
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #13/Wrapup
It's funny to say after a 21-7 loss to our in-state rival but that was one of the better games Florida played all year with one glaring exception... 4 interceptions!!
Only 4 penalties for 25 yards in the entire game. That's a big improvement over some of the midseason numbers. The defense looked amazing! The "other team" attempted 46 rushes for only 30 yards while passing for only 65 yards. Even though they were held under 100 total yards for the game, those 4 interceptions set up 21 points. The first scoring drive went for 20 yards. The second scoring drive went for 4 yards. The third score was an interception return for touchdown. And there you have it, 24 yards on offense and 21 points.
John Brantley had his worst game of the season, 3 interceptions in just under one half of work. After the second interception I thought we might see Brissett at some point. It turns out after the third interception, Brantley was injured and so Brissett did get snaps. The offensive line didn't open any running lanes and losing 2 linemen to injury during the game didn't help.
Florida's only score also came after a turnover, the only one the Gators were able to force. After middle linebacker Michael Taylor forced a fumble, the offense took over at the opponent's 21 yard line. First down saw a 15 yard pass interference penalty moved the ball to the 6 yard line where the Gators completed a 6 yard pass for a touchdown.
So all of the scoring for the day came after turnovers and the longest drive for points was 21 yards. Definitely a day dominated by the defenses. The difference was the turnovers. Bottom line: their defense outscored our defense.
I didn't hear it mentioned very often throughout the season but Florida was playing with only 72 players on scholarship, with a few of those being walk ons that earned scholarships this year. For those who don't know, 85 is the maximum allowed as well as the standard that most teams keep. With only 72 scholarship players, depth was an issue all year long. The team was also a young team with only 17 seniors and 17 juniors on scholarship. This needs to be a huge recruiting class with enough talent to push the current young guys who are starting. Whether or not the growing pains of the season will lead to lessons learned and more cohesive play won't be known until next year. I'm hopeful that this season is akin to 2007 when the Gators were coming off of a championship season with a very, very young team that was pushed around at times. After the growing pains of 2007, 2008 was a championship season and 2009 was nearly so. The bowl game will be interesting. There isn't a 6-6 team out there that Florida should not shut down defensively. On offense I'd like to see Brissett start the game so they can get a jumpstart on next season. That would be a slight to Brantley in his senior season however so maybe the freshman can play the second half.
Well, that was Florida football for 2011. I suspect Muschamp & Co. will need to win at least 8 games to keep the fans hopeful that this is moving in the right direction next year. I don't believe next year's schedules are finalized with the 2 new SEC members, Missouri and Texas A&M joining the conference. I suppose the good news is that Alabama should definitely be off of the schedule next year.
Just Joe
Only 4 penalties for 25 yards in the entire game. That's a big improvement over some of the midseason numbers. The defense looked amazing! The "other team" attempted 46 rushes for only 30 yards while passing for only 65 yards. Even though they were held under 100 total yards for the game, those 4 interceptions set up 21 points. The first scoring drive went for 20 yards. The second scoring drive went for 4 yards. The third score was an interception return for touchdown. And there you have it, 24 yards on offense and 21 points.
John Brantley had his worst game of the season, 3 interceptions in just under one half of work. After the second interception I thought we might see Brissett at some point. It turns out after the third interception, Brantley was injured and so Brissett did get snaps. The offensive line didn't open any running lanes and losing 2 linemen to injury during the game didn't help.
Florida's only score also came after a turnover, the only one the Gators were able to force. After middle linebacker Michael Taylor forced a fumble, the offense took over at the opponent's 21 yard line. First down saw a 15 yard pass interference penalty moved the ball to the 6 yard line where the Gators completed a 6 yard pass for a touchdown.
So all of the scoring for the day came after turnovers and the longest drive for points was 21 yards. Definitely a day dominated by the defenses. The difference was the turnovers. Bottom line: their defense outscored our defense.
I didn't hear it mentioned very often throughout the season but Florida was playing with only 72 players on scholarship, with a few of those being walk ons that earned scholarships this year. For those who don't know, 85 is the maximum allowed as well as the standard that most teams keep. With only 72 scholarship players, depth was an issue all year long. The team was also a young team with only 17 seniors and 17 juniors on scholarship. This needs to be a huge recruiting class with enough talent to push the current young guys who are starting. Whether or not the growing pains of the season will lead to lessons learned and more cohesive play won't be known until next year. I'm hopeful that this season is akin to 2007 when the Gators were coming off of a championship season with a very, very young team that was pushed around at times. After the growing pains of 2007, 2008 was a championship season and 2009 was nearly so. The bowl game will be interesting. There isn't a 6-6 team out there that Florida should not shut down defensively. On offense I'd like to see Brissett start the game so they can get a jumpstart on next season. That would be a slight to Brantley in his senior season however so maybe the freshman can play the second half.
Well, that was Florida football for 2011. I suspect Muschamp & Co. will need to win at least 8 games to keep the fans hopeful that this is moving in the right direction next year. I don't believe next year's schedules are finalized with the 2 new SEC members, Missouri and Texas A&M joining the conference. I suppose the good news is that Alabama should definitely be off of the schedule next year.
Just Joe
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Worst Liar Ever
So Urban Meyer continues to deny that there is any agreement for him to coach Ohio State. Pretty interesting considering there are reports of the exact length and amount of the contract. Then I turn on the Michigan/Ohio State football game this afternoon and there's his broadcast team calling the game... without him. It turns out he asked to be taken off of his regular ESPN duties this weekend. Really, Urban? Did you just need a weekend off to spend with your family? If you're trying to give the illusion of having respect for the rivalry game, why not just have respect for the rivalry game and not talk contract until after the game?
Does anyone else think it would be interesting if Ohio State loses this game to finish 6-6 and the Florida Gators lose tonight to finish 6-6 AND those two teams met in a bowl game?
Just Joe
Does anyone else think it would be interesting if Ohio State loses this game to finish 6-6 and the Florida Gators lose tonight to finish 6-6 AND those two teams met in a bowl game?
Just Joe
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #12
I've always wondered what would happen if a far superior football team took the field against a random, far inferior football team without any preparation. Would the strategies and cohesiveness of the inferior team be able to overcome the superior skill level of the other team? Well, my question was answered in the first quarter of Florida's 54-32 win against FCS Furman.
Furman came out running the option with 2 receivers in the slot, which according to Coach Muschamp, they hadn't run a single play of the entire season. So there were the mighty Gators running around like chickens with their heads cut off. I would figure that in an auction game that they've never seen before, plenty of assignments on the outside would be missed but I wouldn't expect to see the middle of the defensive line look like Swiss cheese. The Paladins confounded the Gators and jumped out to a 15-0 lead. For the record, 2 of those points came on a bad snap for safety. Then after Florida seemed to settle in offensively to cut the lead to 15-7, Furman answered with their longest drive yet, 5 plays for 72 yards and a touchdown to regain a 15 point lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second-quarter looked a lot more like people were expecting. Of the 4 Furman drives in the quarter, 3 of them were 3-and-outs. The three Gators touchdown drives: 7 plays, 65 yards; 1 play, 80 yards; and 2 plays, 34 yards. Mix in a missed field goal attempt and a failed 2 point conversion and the gators led 27-22 at the half.
Third-quarter was a 10-10 stalemate. Both teams started out with field goal drives and then traded 3 punts. Then on a drive's first play, Brantley hit Andre Debose for a 64 yard touchdown. It was Brantley and Debose who had hooked up on the 80 yarder earlier. Not to be outdone, on Furman's first play on the next drive, a 77 yard run right through the defensive line. It was disappointing to see no defender be able to catch the Furman running back in time. It was also disappointing that the Gators were unable to pull away from this feisty team. End of the third, 37-32.
In the fourth quarter, the defense finally flexed some muscle. After an early field goal, the Gators scored on 2 "pick sixes." Although the second didn't come until only a few minutes were left, it came during a drive in which the lead could have been cut to one score.
Overall I give A LOT of credit to Furman. Having said that, it did seem as though Florida came out with little energy, perhaps looking forward to this week's showdown with FSU. In the first and third quarters it seemed as though the Gators were really trying to establish a running game. The offensive line was dominated in the run game as Florida managed just 124 yards the entire game. Take out Chris Rainey's 37 yard scamper and you're looking at under 90 yards! Take out the two interceptions for touchdowns and you're looking at a much closer game. Take out the explosive and somewhat flukish 80 yard and 64 yard touchdown passes and who knows what kind of game you have. (I consider those plays flukish because even though Florida has hit a few of them this year, you cannot count on making those plays every game.)
So a disappointing win if there is such a thing. They'll clearly have to play MUCH better to have any shot against FSU in the Swamp. If the Gators can get decent field position I would expect to see a vast array of trick plays as Charlie Weis empties out the playbook. 7-5 would look a heck of a lot better than 6-6. Go Gators!
Just Joe
Furman came out running the option with 2 receivers in the slot, which according to Coach Muschamp, they hadn't run a single play of the entire season. So there were the mighty Gators running around like chickens with their heads cut off. I would figure that in an auction game that they've never seen before, plenty of assignments on the outside would be missed but I wouldn't expect to see the middle of the defensive line look like Swiss cheese. The Paladins confounded the Gators and jumped out to a 15-0 lead. For the record, 2 of those points came on a bad snap for safety. Then after Florida seemed to settle in offensively to cut the lead to 15-7, Furman answered with their longest drive yet, 5 plays for 72 yards and a touchdown to regain a 15 point lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second-quarter looked a lot more like people were expecting. Of the 4 Furman drives in the quarter, 3 of them were 3-and-outs. The three Gators touchdown drives: 7 plays, 65 yards; 1 play, 80 yards; and 2 plays, 34 yards. Mix in a missed field goal attempt and a failed 2 point conversion and the gators led 27-22 at the half.
Third-quarter was a 10-10 stalemate. Both teams started out with field goal drives and then traded 3 punts. Then on a drive's first play, Brantley hit Andre Debose for a 64 yard touchdown. It was Brantley and Debose who had hooked up on the 80 yarder earlier. Not to be outdone, on Furman's first play on the next drive, a 77 yard run right through the defensive line. It was disappointing to see no defender be able to catch the Furman running back in time. It was also disappointing that the Gators were unable to pull away from this feisty team. End of the third, 37-32.
In the fourth quarter, the defense finally flexed some muscle. After an early field goal, the Gators scored on 2 "pick sixes." Although the second didn't come until only a few minutes were left, it came during a drive in which the lead could have been cut to one score.
Overall I give A LOT of credit to Furman. Having said that, it did seem as though Florida came out with little energy, perhaps looking forward to this week's showdown with FSU. In the first and third quarters it seemed as though the Gators were really trying to establish a running game. The offensive line was dominated in the run game as Florida managed just 124 yards the entire game. Take out Chris Rainey's 37 yard scamper and you're looking at under 90 yards! Take out the two interceptions for touchdowns and you're looking at a much closer game. Take out the explosive and somewhat flukish 80 yard and 64 yard touchdown passes and who knows what kind of game you have. (I consider those plays flukish because even though Florida has hit a few of them this year, you cannot count on making those plays every game.)
So a disappointing win if there is such a thing. They'll clearly have to play MUCH better to have any shot against FSU in the Swamp. If the Gators can get decent field position I would expect to see a vast array of trick plays as Charlie Weis empties out the playbook. 7-5 would look a heck of a lot better than 6-6. Go Gators!
Just Joe
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #11
*Heavy Sigh*
Defense played inconsistently well in allowing just 17 points.
As for the rest... see Week 1 thrue Week 10 wrapups; poor red zone offense, turnovers, fewer penalties but still at crucial times, etc.
*Heavy sigh*
Just Joe
Defense played inconsistently well in allowing just 17 points.
As for the rest... see Week 1 thrue Week 10 wrapups; poor red zone offense, turnovers, fewer penalties but still at crucial times, etc.
*Heavy sigh*
Just Joe
Friday, November 11, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #10
So this will be a quick one to catch me up before tomorrow's game against South Carolina.
The first half against Vanderbilt really looked great. Offensively, defensively, nothing really seemed to be lacking. That probably explains the 17-0 halftime score. The worrisome part is the 26-21 final score.
In the Alabama game, the Gators had early leads of 7-0 and 10-7. Against Georgia, the Gators led at the half 17-10. Both of those games ended up as losses. I don't have the patience to go back and look at the diminished leads that occurred in victories but there is a definite trend I've noticed. The Gators start out strong and look well prepared. But as the games go on, opponents make adjustments that slow the Gators down offensively and and put them on their heels defensively. Unfortunately, the turnaround doesn't simply last a series or two. It seems the coaches do not make the necessary adjustments on the fly. It's quite disturbing and once again quite surprising coming from a staff with so much NFL experience.
Since South Carolina's future NFL running back is out this week, I'll give the Gators a slight chance, especially if they can jump out to an early lead and force the Gamecocks to have to throw often. If South Carolina did have Marcus Lattimore available, we would see a repeat of the Alabama and LSU games... the defensive line being pushed around with no one being able to tackle the big fast guy with the ball. I still expect to see that at times tomorrow, but as always, I'm hopeful.
Just Joe
The first half against Vanderbilt really looked great. Offensively, defensively, nothing really seemed to be lacking. That probably explains the 17-0 halftime score. The worrisome part is the 26-21 final score.
In the Alabama game, the Gators had early leads of 7-0 and 10-7. Against Georgia, the Gators led at the half 17-10. Both of those games ended up as losses. I don't have the patience to go back and look at the diminished leads that occurred in victories but there is a definite trend I've noticed. The Gators start out strong and look well prepared. But as the games go on, opponents make adjustments that slow the Gators down offensively and and put them on their heels defensively. Unfortunately, the turnaround doesn't simply last a series or two. It seems the coaches do not make the necessary adjustments on the fly. It's quite disturbing and once again quite surprising coming from a staff with so much NFL experience.
Since South Carolina's future NFL running back is out this week, I'll give the Gators a slight chance, especially if they can jump out to an early lead and force the Gamecocks to have to throw often. If South Carolina did have Marcus Lattimore available, we would see a repeat of the Alabama and LSU games... the defensive line being pushed around with no one being able to tackle the big fast guy with the ball. I still expect to see that at times tomorrow, but as always, I'm hopeful.
Just Joe
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #9
So obviously I'm way behind on posting my Gators wrapups but this was from the miserable 24-20 loss to the Georgia Bullsh-ts. (So much for nonbiased reporting.)
Still with the penalties!!! Even after a bye week, no improvement is shown! Of course, the bye week didn't seem to help in any aspect of the game. The defensive line got zero pressure on the quarterback unless sending extra defenders on the blitz. The offense of line pass blocking and run blocking was soooo inconsistent. And on the rare occasion that anyone was given time in the pocket, receivers could not get open. There were a grand total of 2 completions to wide receivers and one of those turned into a lost fumble! Knowing how frustrating it was to watch, I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to coach.
Speaking of the coaching, since I'm usually quick to point out when I disagree with a Muschamp game decision, I'll point out another... but this time Coach gets credit for making the right call. In the fourth quarter, down 24-20 with 8:06 left, there was a 4th & 2 at about the Georgia 42 yard line. My call was to go for it since we may not get that close again. Muschamp decided to punt. The punt was downed inside the 5 yard line and the defense forced a 3 and out. One terrible punt later and the Gators had the ball 1st & 10 at the Georgia 40 yard line. Great call by Coach "Boom!"
The only other notes I have are about the unbelievable kick returns the Gators pulled off. One kickoff return for a touchdown and another well into Georgia territory setting up a field goal. Jordan Reed showed up a bit which was nice to see... even though I jumped off his bandwagon last week. The lack of offensive rhythm was painful to see. It just seems like on every play there is someone who doesn't do his job and it ends up blowing up the whole play. On one place the center, then it's a dropped pass, then it is a bad pass, then it's a missed block... and so on. Seems like it would be way better to make all those mistakes on one play and then execute the next 10 perfectly.
Oh well. Now the Gators have to be a much improved Vanderbilt team in Nashville to have a realistic shot at bowl eligibility. I hope no one is taking them lightly because I know Vanderbilt knows they can win.
Just Joe
Still with the penalties!!! Even after a bye week, no improvement is shown! Of course, the bye week didn't seem to help in any aspect of the game. The defensive line got zero pressure on the quarterback unless sending extra defenders on the blitz. The offense of line pass blocking and run blocking was soooo inconsistent. And on the rare occasion that anyone was given time in the pocket, receivers could not get open. There were a grand total of 2 completions to wide receivers and one of those turned into a lost fumble! Knowing how frustrating it was to watch, I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to coach.
Speaking of the coaching, since I'm usually quick to point out when I disagree with a Muschamp game decision, I'll point out another... but this time Coach gets credit for making the right call. In the fourth quarter, down 24-20 with 8:06 left, there was a 4th & 2 at about the Georgia 42 yard line. My call was to go for it since we may not get that close again. Muschamp decided to punt. The punt was downed inside the 5 yard line and the defense forced a 3 and out. One terrible punt later and the Gators had the ball 1st & 10 at the Georgia 40 yard line. Great call by Coach "Boom!"
The only other notes I have are about the unbelievable kick returns the Gators pulled off. One kickoff return for a touchdown and another well into Georgia territory setting up a field goal. Jordan Reed showed up a bit which was nice to see... even though I jumped off his bandwagon last week. The lack of offensive rhythm was painful to see. It just seems like on every play there is someone who doesn't do his job and it ends up blowing up the whole play. On one place the center, then it's a dropped pass, then it is a bad pass, then it's a missed block... and so on. Seems like it would be way better to make all those mistakes on one play and then execute the next 10 perfectly.
Oh well. Now the Gators have to be a much improved Vanderbilt team in Nashville to have a realistic shot at bowl eligibility. I hope no one is taking them lightly because I know Vanderbilt knows they can win.
Just Joe
World Series 2011
Apologies to all of my readeR for the unexpected lack of posts lately.
Rangers vs. St. Louis Cardinals -- 7 games
What a great World Series! I always root for a 7 game World Series. Well, unless a team that I despise is in it, then I hope for sweeps. But this series had it all; low scoring games, high-scoring games, drama, suspense, record-setting performances, unbelievable endings and even a malfunctioning bullpen phone. (Yeah, right.)
Game 1 was your regular World Series pitcher's duel. St. Louis scored 2 in the fourth, Texas scored in the fifth and in the sixth inning Allen Craig came up with a go-ahead RBI pinch-hit off of Texas' Alexi Ogando, who was unhittable in the ALCS against Detroit. That run held up the final three innings as the Cardinals took game one at home.
Game 2 was an even more tightly contested pitchers duel between St. Louis' Jaime Garcia and the Rangers' Colby Lewis. St. Louis struck first but not until the bottom of the seventh inning! And coincidently enough Allen Craig again came through with an RBI pinch-hit off of Ogando. Heading into the ninth inning it looked like Craig was going to be the early favorite for World Series MVP and Ogando would be the favorite for World Series goat. But in the ninth inning Texas managed to rally behind a sneaky yet all important stolen base by Ian Kinsler and 2 sac flies to take the lead. St. Louis couldn't answer in the bottom of the ninth so the series went from a seeming 2-0 lead for St. Louis to a 1-1 series tie.
Game 3 saw the series moves to Texas where warmer weather was sure to warm up the bats. And boy did they warm up! 23 combined runs and 28 combined hits in one World Series game! Allen Craig again started off the scoring but this time as a starter in the first inning. His home run would again make him a contender for World Series MVP... if St. Louis could hold on. All remained quiet until the fourth inning when the Cardinals put up a 4 spot and Texas answered with 3 in the bottom of the inning. Then in the fifth, the Cardinals added 3 more runs as did Texas. So they were already at 8-6 through five innings when the teams had combined for 8 total runs in both games in St. Louis. In the sixth inning Albert Pujols chimed in with his first big hit of the series, a breathtaking, majestic, 431 foot, three-run homer off of Mr. Ogando. St. Louis pushed another run across that inning to take a 12-6 lead. From that moment on Texas' bats just could not keep up. Texas' 3 errors did not help any. As the seventh inning rolled around, Pujols found the chance to hit another home run, but this was only a two run homer and it only went 424 feet. Texas added a run in the bottom of the seventh and St. Louis answered back with the same in the top of the eighth. The top of the ninth started with the game out of reach for the Rangers. The only suspense was that Albert Pujols had one more at-bat and a chance to become only the third player ever to hit 3 home runs in a World Series game. And that's exactly what he did with two outs. His shortest home run of the game, a mere 420 feet, made him part of history as he tied several records (home runs in a World Series game, RBIs in a World Series game, hits in a World Series game) and set the record for most total bases in a World Series game (14). Simply historic. On a side note, the next day my mom saw Albert's numbers for the game on TV and said, "Wow, he's having a good series." Then I told her those were his numbers for Game 3 ONLY!
Game 4 saw a return of the pitching duel. Derek Holland gave up just 2 hits to the Cardinals over 8 1/3 innings while catcher Mike Napoli provided all of the necessary offense with a three-run homer in the sixth inning. It was definitely a game for baseball "purists" since even the winning team had only six hits. But the series was tied now 2-2.
Game 5 was another low-scoring affair but it was hardly well played. The Rangers' pitchers gave up 9 walks while both teams combined for 3 errors. St. Louis did jump out to a 2-0 lead in the second inning but Texas came back with one in the third and one in the sixth to tie; then the final 2 runs of the game in the bottom of the 8th. Texas takes a 3-2 series lead with the last games in St. Louis... and Texas hasn't lost back-to-back games since August 23!
Game 6 was one for the ages! Like Game 5, the first 6 innings of Game 6 were close but sloppily played with way too many errors for teams that are supposed to be World Series caliber. Then in the top of the seventh inning Texas led off with 2 home runs and later added a third run to take a 7-4 lead and needing only 9 outs to clinch the World Series. In the bottom of the eighth, Allen Craig, drove himself in with a home run to get within 2. Fast forward to the bottom of the ninth with Texas still clinging to that two run lead -- 3 outs to the championship. The bottom of the ninth started with a Ryan Theriot strikeout -- 2 outs to the championship. Then Albert Pujols doubles to deep left center and Lance Berkman walks. Suddenly Craig is up again and ready to be a hero. Unfortunately for him he struck out looking -- 1 out to the championship. David Freese is at the plate and has 2 strikes on him... when he triples over the head of Nelson Cruz, and driving in the two tying runs! Molina lined out to right, ending the threat and sending the game into extra innings. In the top of the 10th, Josh Hamilton stepped up to the plate with one on and one out. All he did was hit your run-of-the-mill 406 foot home run, giving the Rangers another 2 run lead with just 3 outs to get. What a story! Former drug addict and alcoholic turned born-again was going to lead his team to a World Series Championship. The story seemed too good to be true. Two singles and a sacrifice into the bottom of the 10th meant the story may be in doubt. Theriot grounded out to third, scoring one run ball leaving just one out left. The Rangers properly walked Pujols but with two outs and two strikes Berkman burned them by hitting a single up the middle which once again scored the tying run!!! In the top of the 11th inning Texas could only muster a one-out single. In the bottom of the 11th however, David Freese, hero of the ninth inning, led off with a deep homerun that swiftly ended the game in favor of St. Louis!!!
What a game! The crowd went from deathly silent to full-blown frenzy in the bottoms of the 8th, 9th, 10th AND 11th innings. I've never seen a game, much less a World Series game, end with that much excitement! It actually lead to many people saying it was the greatest World Series game ever played! While I cannot agree with that because of the sloppiness in the first half of the game, I'll absolutely admit that it was probably the game with the most drama and best ending! Of course, the game only tied the series at 3. So there was also a lot of discussion about whether or not the Cardinals would have to win to legitimize that Game 6. Some people said of victory was not necessary while others said losing Game 7 would take away from the importance and excitement of Game 6. In my opinion Game 6 can stand on its own and a loss in Game 7 would not diminish the excitement or the importance of the previous game. BUT winning the last game would definitely ADD to the historic nature of Game 6.
Game 7 was a tense one as no matter the outcome of this game, one team would be declared champs and one team... wouldn't. The momentum of Game 6 didn't seem to carry over as Texas pushed across two runs in the very first inning, powered by back-to-back doubles from Josh Hamilton and Michael Young. But just as the previous game ended, St. Louis answered right back with 2 runs after back-to-back 2-out walks to Albert Pujols and Lance Berkman led to a David Freese 2 RBI double. For the rest of the game, Texas' bats were very quiet as they never mustered more than one hit in any inning after the first. Meanwhile Allen Craig homered yet again in the third inning. Texas pitchers walked in a run and hit a batter to bring in a second run in the fifth inning. St. Louis added one more in the seventh and cruised to a 6-2 victory in Game 7.
My words don't begin to do justice to the excitement of these games. It was absolutely my favorite World Series since the 1991 Braves-Twins which goes down in my book as the greatest World Series ever! (At least of the ones I've seen and am able to comment on.)
Five months until spring training!
Just Joe
Rangers vs. St. Louis Cardinals -- 7 games
What a great World Series! I always root for a 7 game World Series. Well, unless a team that I despise is in it, then I hope for sweeps. But this series had it all; low scoring games, high-scoring games, drama, suspense, record-setting performances, unbelievable endings and even a malfunctioning bullpen phone. (Yeah, right.)
Game 1 was your regular World Series pitcher's duel. St. Louis scored 2 in the fourth, Texas scored in the fifth and in the sixth inning Allen Craig came up with a go-ahead RBI pinch-hit off of Texas' Alexi Ogando, who was unhittable in the ALCS against Detroit. That run held up the final three innings as the Cardinals took game one at home.
Game 2 was an even more tightly contested pitchers duel between St. Louis' Jaime Garcia and the Rangers' Colby Lewis. St. Louis struck first but not until the bottom of the seventh inning! And coincidently enough Allen Craig again came through with an RBI pinch-hit off of Ogando. Heading into the ninth inning it looked like Craig was going to be the early favorite for World Series MVP and Ogando would be the favorite for World Series goat. But in the ninth inning Texas managed to rally behind a sneaky yet all important stolen base by Ian Kinsler and 2 sac flies to take the lead. St. Louis couldn't answer in the bottom of the ninth so the series went from a seeming 2-0 lead for St. Louis to a 1-1 series tie.
Game 3 saw the series moves to Texas where warmer weather was sure to warm up the bats. And boy did they warm up! 23 combined runs and 28 combined hits in one World Series game! Allen Craig again started off the scoring but this time as a starter in the first inning. His home run would again make him a contender for World Series MVP... if St. Louis could hold on. All remained quiet until the fourth inning when the Cardinals put up a 4 spot and Texas answered with 3 in the bottom of the inning. Then in the fifth, the Cardinals added 3 more runs as did Texas. So they were already at 8-6 through five innings when the teams had combined for 8 total runs in both games in St. Louis. In the sixth inning Albert Pujols chimed in with his first big hit of the series, a breathtaking, majestic, 431 foot, three-run homer off of Mr. Ogando. St. Louis pushed another run across that inning to take a 12-6 lead. From that moment on Texas' bats just could not keep up. Texas' 3 errors did not help any. As the seventh inning rolled around, Pujols found the chance to hit another home run, but this was only a two run homer and it only went 424 feet. Texas added a run in the bottom of the seventh and St. Louis answered back with the same in the top of the eighth. The top of the ninth started with the game out of reach for the Rangers. The only suspense was that Albert Pujols had one more at-bat and a chance to become only the third player ever to hit 3 home runs in a World Series game. And that's exactly what he did with two outs. His shortest home run of the game, a mere 420 feet, made him part of history as he tied several records (home runs in a World Series game, RBIs in a World Series game, hits in a World Series game) and set the record for most total bases in a World Series game (14). Simply historic. On a side note, the next day my mom saw Albert's numbers for the game on TV and said, "Wow, he's having a good series." Then I told her those were his numbers for Game 3 ONLY!
Game 4 saw a return of the pitching duel. Derek Holland gave up just 2 hits to the Cardinals over 8 1/3 innings while catcher Mike Napoli provided all of the necessary offense with a three-run homer in the sixth inning. It was definitely a game for baseball "purists" since even the winning team had only six hits. But the series was tied now 2-2.
Game 5 was another low-scoring affair but it was hardly well played. The Rangers' pitchers gave up 9 walks while both teams combined for 3 errors. St. Louis did jump out to a 2-0 lead in the second inning but Texas came back with one in the third and one in the sixth to tie; then the final 2 runs of the game in the bottom of the 8th. Texas takes a 3-2 series lead with the last games in St. Louis... and Texas hasn't lost back-to-back games since August 23!
Game 6 was one for the ages! Like Game 5, the first 6 innings of Game 6 were close but sloppily played with way too many errors for teams that are supposed to be World Series caliber. Then in the top of the seventh inning Texas led off with 2 home runs and later added a third run to take a 7-4 lead and needing only 9 outs to clinch the World Series. In the bottom of the eighth, Allen Craig, drove himself in with a home run to get within 2. Fast forward to the bottom of the ninth with Texas still clinging to that two run lead -- 3 outs to the championship. The bottom of the ninth started with a Ryan Theriot strikeout -- 2 outs to the championship. Then Albert Pujols doubles to deep left center and Lance Berkman walks. Suddenly Craig is up again and ready to be a hero. Unfortunately for him he struck out looking -- 1 out to the championship. David Freese is at the plate and has 2 strikes on him... when he triples over the head of Nelson Cruz, and driving in the two tying runs! Molina lined out to right, ending the threat and sending the game into extra innings. In the top of the 10th, Josh Hamilton stepped up to the plate with one on and one out. All he did was hit your run-of-the-mill 406 foot home run, giving the Rangers another 2 run lead with just 3 outs to get. What a story! Former drug addict and alcoholic turned born-again was going to lead his team to a World Series Championship. The story seemed too good to be true. Two singles and a sacrifice into the bottom of the 10th meant the story may be in doubt. Theriot grounded out to third, scoring one run ball leaving just one out left. The Rangers properly walked Pujols but with two outs and two strikes Berkman burned them by hitting a single up the middle which once again scored the tying run!!! In the top of the 11th inning Texas could only muster a one-out single. In the bottom of the 11th however, David Freese, hero of the ninth inning, led off with a deep homerun that swiftly ended the game in favor of St. Louis!!!
What a game! The crowd went from deathly silent to full-blown frenzy in the bottoms of the 8th, 9th, 10th AND 11th innings. I've never seen a game, much less a World Series game, end with that much excitement! It actually lead to many people saying it was the greatest World Series game ever played! While I cannot agree with that because of the sloppiness in the first half of the game, I'll absolutely admit that it was probably the game with the most drama and best ending! Of course, the game only tied the series at 3. So there was also a lot of discussion about whether or not the Cardinals would have to win to legitimize that Game 6. Some people said of victory was not necessary while others said losing Game 7 would take away from the importance and excitement of Game 6. In my opinion Game 6 can stand on its own and a loss in Game 7 would not diminish the excitement or the importance of the previous game. BUT winning the last game would definitely ADD to the historic nature of Game 6.
Game 7 was a tense one as no matter the outcome of this game, one team would be declared champs and one team... wouldn't. The momentum of Game 6 didn't seem to carry over as Texas pushed across two runs in the very first inning, powered by back-to-back doubles from Josh Hamilton and Michael Young. But just as the previous game ended, St. Louis answered right back with 2 runs after back-to-back 2-out walks to Albert Pujols and Lance Berkman led to a David Freese 2 RBI double. For the rest of the game, Texas' bats were very quiet as they never mustered more than one hit in any inning after the first. Meanwhile Allen Craig homered yet again in the third inning. Texas pitchers walked in a run and hit a batter to bring in a second run in the fifth inning. St. Louis added one more in the seventh and cruised to a 6-2 victory in Game 7.
My words don't begin to do justice to the excitement of these games. It was absolutely my favorite World Series since the 1991 Braves-Twins which goes down in my book as the greatest World Series ever! (At least of the ones I've seen and am able to comment on.)
Five months until spring training!
Just Joe
Monday, October 17, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #7
That was bad. This week I'll quote my cousin who sent me a text: "Sucks to lose to a team that sucks..." I'll save the rest in case any of you have sensitive ears/eyes. I thought to win this game the Gators would have to be healthy. The Gators were far from healthy entering the game and are even worse off after the game. I do believe that with John Brantley at quarterback, the Gators could have won. But...
The offense was just pathetic. I would expect A LOT more from an offensive coordinator with the reputation Charlie Weis has. He used to score well into the 30s with Notre Dame and their talent never came close to matching what's on this team. I know he wasn't going against SEC defenses, but Auburn does not have a great defense. I nearly broke my ankle Saturday night jumping off of the "get Jordan Reed the ball" bandwagon. This was the first week I noticed a concerted effort to get him the ball. Unfortunately he dropped one pass in the end zone (tough catch but I'm sure he'd tell you he should've caught it), was overthrown on a flea flicker and he dropped another pass that may have been a touchdown though there were only four seconds left in the game. He also showed no field awareness when catching the ball near the sideline.
I don't have the roster in front of me, but are there any wide receivers on the team? Frankie Hammond caught a few and looked pretty good. Outside of that I can't remember any wide receivers making any plays or even being open.
And seriously, no one could catch an Auburn punt? I know those suckers were up there and the first Rainey muff may have been caused by interference but come on, catch the ball. I wasn't surprised that Rainey was in for the punt block on the last punt but I was surprised that Robert Clark was back to receive the punt. I would have strongly considered rushing 11 and not having anyone back.
The uncalled penalties were outrageous. I really think the Chris Rainey interference non-call could have gone either way. But not much later in the game there was as blatant a defensive holding as I've ever seen yet it was not called. Coincidentally (I think) it was a non-call against Chris Rainey. On a third-down on our third drive after two 3-and-outs, Jacoby Brisset strung together two first downs and was trying to hit Chris Rainey on a little screen that would have netted a first down. One of Auburn's defensive lineman just grabbed a jersey full of Rainey and didn't let go. There was another uncalled penalty later on, but my old mind doesn't remember the situation.
It was nice to see a new punter out there. Christy averaged about 46 yards per punt, which includes the shank job that he dropped. Silly mistake but I still think the Gators found a punter.
The defense played better but I have a sneaking suspicion a lot of that is due to playing a lesser team. Auburn dropped a lot of balls and committed a lot of penalties which helped out. The defensive line is still jumping offsides; one time leading to a free play for a touchdown. They are also still inconsistent against the run as there were several 8-15 yard running plays against them.
This'll be a nice week to have off and hopefully get healthy before the Cocktail Party. This is the game I think the Gators need to get to 7 wins.
I know I'm leaving plenty out. I usually forget stuff every week. I think Freud would call it a defense mechanism.
Just Joe
Sunday, October 16, 2011
More Pet Peeves
Just another quick post for this week...
Watching football this weekend reminded me of 2 pet peeves I have when it comes to the announcers.
First, not all handoffs to wide receivers are reverses! The ball must be going in a direction before it can be reversed. After the quarterback takes his drop and hands it to a receiver, that's called an "end around." Now, if that receiver hands the ball to someone else running in the opposite direction THEN it is a reverse! So please, stop calling end arounds "reverses" and stop calling reverses "double reverses!"
Second, it is nearly impossible to catch a ball "at its highest point!" To be able to do that, at times a person would have to be able to jump 20 feet in the air; maybe even more depending on the throw. Certainly a receiver can catch the ball at his highest point of a jump but rarely can and receiver get the ball at the ball's highest point.
Thanks for letting me air that out.
Just Joe
Watching football this weekend reminded me of 2 pet peeves I have when it comes to the announcers.
First, not all handoffs to wide receivers are reverses! The ball must be going in a direction before it can be reversed. After the quarterback takes his drop and hands it to a receiver, that's called an "end around." Now, if that receiver hands the ball to someone else running in the opposite direction THEN it is a reverse! So please, stop calling end arounds "reverses" and stop calling reverses "double reverses!"
Second, it is nearly impossible to catch a ball "at its highest point!" To be able to do that, at times a person would have to be able to jump 20 feet in the air; maybe even more depending on the throw. Certainly a receiver can catch the ball at his highest point of a jump but rarely can and receiver get the ball at the ball's highest point.
Thanks for letting me air that out.
Just Joe
Monday, October 10, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #6
Ouch, take 2.
Let’s start with the good. Jacoby Brisset. I thought he looked incredibly smooth out there. Not just for a true freshman starting his first game, but as an overall athlete all of his movements were so coordinated and fluid. I’m thinking there’s going to be quite a battle for the starting quarterback position come spring and next fall. His first interception came on a route that Jordan Reed gave up on and his second interception will hopefully be a learning experience; put the ball where your guy gets it or no one gets it. I thought it was kind of funny that we were running so much option. I know Charlie Weis had to plan with the athletes he had available but it still made me chuckle at the irony. The sad part is that it looked better than it did last year under Urban!
The other good that stood out to me was Dominique Easley. No newsflash here but he’ll be playing on Sundays. He is so fast off of the ball! He is regularly the first lineman making contact with the opposing lineman. Sometimes he is so fast he seems to be across the line of scrimmage before the ball is even snapped, but never mind that part for now.
On to the bad. The defensive line was once again exposed. The only way to keep from getting worn out over 4 quarters is to make third-down stops early on. With LSU coming out so jacked up with the home crowd behind them, those early stops just weren’t happening. The “Mad Hatter” made a nice call on the second play of the game going deep when the Gators were surely selling out after a first play 13 yard run. Of course, the call was made to look all the better when Pop Saunders blew his deep middle coverage.
I have to call out the coaching here a little bit. This will sound like second-guessing but I promise you these were my thoughts before the outcomes of the plays:
On our third possession, down 14-0 on 4th & 1. I loved the call to go for it even though it isn’t by the book. At the time it felt like 21-0 would not have felt any worse than 14-0. So no problems there. But later on in the same drive, faking the punt on 4th & 6 did not seem necessary. I felt we had controlled the ball for a few minutes by making a couple of first downs and that things were calming down (at least from a fan’s point of view). It doesn’t matter that Burton probably should’ve made it, it was definitely not the right call.
The other coaching call I questioned was after the LSU punt after our failed fake punt. LSU pinned the Gators back at the 8 yard line but there was a procedure penalty against LSU. My thought was to add the 5 yards to the kick and take the ball at the 13 yard line. The best thing that could have happened by making them kick again was a touchback which would have been a 7 yard gain. Instead, LSU gets another chance and the punter ends up calling his own number and runs the ball into the end zone (which was subsequently called back to around the 25 yard line). I can’t say I knew that was going to happen, but from the television angle behind the punter, you could clearly see the entire left side of the special teams open up. Even though I was watching the game by myself, I said, “Uh-Oh,” out loud as I saw both guys who were covering the left gunner just turn and take off.
Here’s something that I wasn’t sure about. How did LSU get the ball to start the second half AND get fourth-quarter wind? LSU won the toss and deferred until the second half. In the second half they chose to receive the ball, of course. That left the Gators to decide direction. Shouldn’t they have chosen to go against the wind in the third quarter in hopes of having the wind at their backs should a last-second field goal be necessary? Maybe they just didn’t want to kick off into the wind to start the half? LSU made the same choice in the first half (chose to kick off with the wind) so maybe I’m way off on that strategy?
Penalties! Enough with the penalties! Do all of those encroachment/offsides penalties reflect on the coaching staff or the players? Whoever’s discipline problem it is, fix that shit!
And finally, shouldn’t a major Division I program have a better punter than what the Gators have? Can Chas Henry grow a 'stache and re-enroll for four years?
Just Joe
Sunday, October 9, 2011
My Imaginary Friend
I'm sure that by reading the title you're probably thinking I'm going to discuss my imaginary friend from when I was a little kid. Surprise, surprise...
I was more than a little saddenned this past week when the trees and bushes in our yard were trimmed. It meant the death of my two week old imaginary friend. You see, when I sit up in bed and look out my bedroom doors, I see the reflection of a particular tree in the glass doors of the back patio. Well, the branches in one section of the tree began to look like a face. Not a human face though, more of a cartoony, caricaturey, monster face. Sort of a cross between Carol from Where the Wild Things Are and Junior Gorg from Fraggle Rock (If you get one of those references, we're cool. If you get them both, we are peeps). And although I never spoke to him and he never spoke to me, I did become accustomed to seeing him there. He wasn't quite a security blanket but he definitely became a friend. I just love it when I can share someone's company without having to talk all the time.
Godspeed, monster friend. I'll miss your puffy lips and kind eyes. But most of all I'll miss your comedically, bulbous nose. Who knows, maybe with a little luck you'll come back. I'd probably talk to you this time though so be sure to bring your ears!
Just Joe
I was more than a little saddenned this past week when the trees and bushes in our yard were trimmed. It meant the death of my two week old imaginary friend. You see, when I sit up in bed and look out my bedroom doors, I see the reflection of a particular tree in the glass doors of the back patio. Well, the branches in one section of the tree began to look like a face. Not a human face though, more of a cartoony, caricaturey, monster face. Sort of a cross between Carol from Where the Wild Things Are and Junior Gorg from Fraggle Rock (If you get one of those references, we're cool. If you get them both, we are peeps). And although I never spoke to him and he never spoke to me, I did become accustomed to seeing him there. He wasn't quite a security blanket but he definitely became a friend. I just love it when I can share someone's company without having to talk all the time.
Godspeed, monster friend. I'll miss your puffy lips and kind eyes. But most of all I'll miss your comedically, bulbous nose. Who knows, maybe with a little luck you'll come back. I'd probably talk to you this time though so be sure to bring your ears!
Just Joe
Monday, October 3, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #5
OUCH! Unfortunately, that 38-10 loss to Alabama went about as I expected. Actually, it ended up worse since John Brantley was lost due to injury late in the second quarter. Going in I said I would be happy if we hung with Alabama for three quarters. And even though Alabama threatened to pull away in the second quarter, a scoreless third quarter meant we indeed did hang with them for three quarters. In fact, if the Gators could have put up a score in the third quarter the whole feel of the game would have been different.
Where to begin? I loved the call to open the game. With Alabama sure to play up to take away speedsters Chris Rainey and Jeffrey Demps, throwing deep to loosen things up and let everyone know that that is in the arsenal was a good call, and the result didn't stink either! The entire first quarter Brantley was given all kinds of time by the offensive line. This led to the Gators moving the ball steadily but only coming away with 3 points after the opening play. Quarters 2 through 4 were a different story. Alabama switched to a zone defense which seemed to completely stump the offense. And at no point was the offensive line able to open up any running holes.
Defensively I thought it was important to get early 3 and outs to keep from being worn down later in the game. Instead, the "bend but don't break" defense became the "bend and break" defense. The young guys just couldn't hold up to the relentless onslaught of Alabama's offensive line. Those bulldozers just kept coming and proved that big and fast beats fast every time. It will be nice to see some size in the Gators offensive backfield next year with running back recruit Matt Jones who measures in at 6''3", 215 pounds. Hopefully he can do some damage the way Trent Richardson does for Alabama this year.
The defense did have some success in the third quarter but I thought the same thing that the announcer mentioned, Alabama looked like they let off the gas. It seemed like many of their running plays in the third quarter were simple and straight ahead. But once they began pulling linemen again in the running game, it was over.
I suppose it's a good thing that the backup quarterback Jeff Driskel received some playing time against this nearly-professional level defense since next week he'll have to face one for an entire game (and on the road no less).
The special teams were hot and cold. Mostly hot on returns and mostly cold on coverage. After receiving the kickoff after Alabama's first score, Jeffrey Demps was one missed Mike Gillislee block away from scoring a touchdown. 14-3 may have been a little more interesting than 10-3 (Florida scored a field goal on that drive).
On the bright side, this only counts as one loss. With South Carolina losing this week, the Gators are still tied for first in the East and still have a chance to get to Atlanta for the SEC championship game. A win at either #1 LSU next week or at Auburn the week after is a must. At full strength I would hope we could hang with LSU for three quarters as we did with Alabama. But with a freshman quarterback getting his first start on the road, all bets are off and I have no idea what to expect. Well, I have an idea but I will remain hopeful!
Just Joe
Where to begin? I loved the call to open the game. With Alabama sure to play up to take away speedsters Chris Rainey and Jeffrey Demps, throwing deep to loosen things up and let everyone know that that is in the arsenal was a good call, and the result didn't stink either! The entire first quarter Brantley was given all kinds of time by the offensive line. This led to the Gators moving the ball steadily but only coming away with 3 points after the opening play. Quarters 2 through 4 were a different story. Alabama switched to a zone defense which seemed to completely stump the offense. And at no point was the offensive line able to open up any running holes.
Defensively I thought it was important to get early 3 and outs to keep from being worn down later in the game. Instead, the "bend but don't break" defense became the "bend and break" defense. The young guys just couldn't hold up to the relentless onslaught of Alabama's offensive line. Those bulldozers just kept coming and proved that big and fast beats fast every time. It will be nice to see some size in the Gators offensive backfield next year with running back recruit Matt Jones who measures in at 6''3", 215 pounds. Hopefully he can do some damage the way Trent Richardson does for Alabama this year.
The defense did have some success in the third quarter but I thought the same thing that the announcer mentioned, Alabama looked like they let off the gas. It seemed like many of their running plays in the third quarter were simple and straight ahead. But once they began pulling linemen again in the running game, it was over.
I suppose it's a good thing that the backup quarterback Jeff Driskel received some playing time against this nearly-professional level defense since next week he'll have to face one for an entire game (and on the road no less).
The special teams were hot and cold. Mostly hot on returns and mostly cold on coverage. After receiving the kickoff after Alabama's first score, Jeffrey Demps was one missed Mike Gillislee block away from scoring a touchdown. 14-3 may have been a little more interesting than 10-3 (Florida scored a field goal on that drive).
On the bright side, this only counts as one loss. With South Carolina losing this week, the Gators are still tied for first in the East and still have a chance to get to Atlanta for the SEC championship game. A win at either #1 LSU next week or at Auburn the week after is a must. At full strength I would hope we could hang with LSU for three quarters as we did with Alabama. But with a freshman quarterback getting his first start on the road, all bets are off and I have no idea what to expect. Well, I have an idea but I will remain hopeful!
Just Joe
Sunday, October 2, 2011
The LFL
If you've been following along since May, you know that I'm a big fan of mixed martial arts. If there are 2 trained fighters going at it, I'm watching. Well, MTV2 broadcasts fights from a promotion called Bellator which is actually based up the road from me in Hollywood, Florida. A few months ago I was checking out MTV2 in hopes of seeing the week's fights. Unfortunately for me, there was no event that night.
Instead, the LFL All-Star Game was on. How ridiculous this must be! I've been shaking my head at the thought of this "league" for years now. "Well, as long as I'm here, I might as well watch a play or two," I convinced myself. I know, I know; sometimes I even disappoint myself. Anyway, after a couple of plays I realized that these players were really laying it all out there! Er, uh, so to speak. The quality of the football was -- I don't want to say "terrible" but it was probably 2 or 3 notches above some of my buddies and me playing in a field. There was one difference though, these players were really hitting! Their effort alone was impressive and I fear I may have underestimated these guys. Sure the quarterbacks threw like girls and some of the players even ran like girls, but what can you expect when you're watching The Lingerie Football League!
I know what you're thinking. Probably the same stuff I used to think. But these girls were WAY more athletic than I gave them credit for. And sure, they were in tiny outfits but they were more covered than you would see in an average 1980s beer commercial. And seriously, these girls were hitting hard! One team had a quarterback who was 6'2", 200 pounds. She was a running quarterback and when she got into the open field and had a full head of steam, yikes, I wouldn't jump in front of her with someone else's body! Yet along would come a tiny, little (relatively speaking) defensive back to take her head on and make the tackle. Sure, it looked more like the quarterback just got the smaller girl's corpse tangled in her feet, but she still went down.
So I ended up watching an entire half and came away with much more respect. I haven't watched a single down since then but I definitely encourage you to watch a few plays and see if you come away as impressed as I did. Who knows, maybe it will become your newest guilty pleasure.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Not Sure yet
Instead, the LFL All-Star Game was on. How ridiculous this must be! I've been shaking my head at the thought of this "league" for years now. "Well, as long as I'm here, I might as well watch a play or two," I convinced myself. I know, I know; sometimes I even disappoint myself. Anyway, after a couple of plays I realized that these players were really laying it all out there! Er, uh, so to speak. The quality of the football was -- I don't want to say "terrible" but it was probably 2 or 3 notches above some of my buddies and me playing in a field. There was one difference though, these players were really hitting! Their effort alone was impressive and I fear I may have underestimated these guys. Sure the quarterbacks threw like girls and some of the players even ran like girls, but what can you expect when you're watching The Lingerie Football League!
I know what you're thinking. Probably the same stuff I used to think. But these girls were WAY more athletic than I gave them credit for. And sure, they were in tiny outfits but they were more covered than you would see in an average 1980s beer commercial. And seriously, these girls were hitting hard! One team had a quarterback who was 6'2", 200 pounds. She was a running quarterback and when she got into the open field and had a full head of steam, yikes, I wouldn't jump in front of her with someone else's body! Yet along would come a tiny, little (relatively speaking) defensive back to take her head on and make the tackle. Sure, it looked more like the quarterback just got the smaller girl's corpse tangled in her feet, but she still went down.
So I ended up watching an entire half and came away with much more respect. I haven't watched a single down since then but I definitely encourage you to watch a few plays and see if you come away as impressed as I did. Who knows, maybe it will become your newest guilty pleasure.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Not Sure yet
Monday, September 26, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #4
Wow! And I'm not even talking about Samantha Steele. That 48-10 win at Kentucky was played as well as I thought I would see the Gators play all year!
Offensive line, solid. John Brantley, solid. Receivers, solid. Running backs, amazing!
Defensive line, although they disappeared for a short stints, better than "solid." Linebackers, solid. Secondary...*drumroll*... solid!
Special teams, solid.
With such a young team (only 34 juniors and seniors combined) playing their first road SEC game, I could not have been more impressed, especially with how the game started. Their first two drives began at their own 12 and 8 yard lines, respectively. Kentucky's crowd and defense were bringing it. But after punting twice, the Gators were able to force and recover a fumble on Kentucky's second possession. After that, it was like a Piranha feeding frenzy. First play after the fumble, 45 yard touchdown pass, followed by a three and out by Kentucky inside their own 10 yard line. After receiving the ball on their own 42 yard line, 4 Gator plays later, touchdown. Next Kentucky possession, interception returned to the Kentucky 28 yard line. 2 plays later, the Gators scored their third touchdown in 4:02 of game time (2:08 of possession time). The rout was on.
The only glaring negative for the team was turnovers. But even there was a silver lining. Two of the turnovers were made by freshman quarterback Jeff Driskel. After subbing in for Brantley when he left for a short time due to injury, Driskel lost a fumble while in the pocket which led to Kentucky's only touchdown. Driskel then threw an interception in his next series while the Gators were driving to put points on the board at the end of the first half. The silver lining? Well, first, I'm glad he was able to make those mistakes in a 31-3 game. Second, he came back in at the end of the third quarter and finished out the game, gaining valuable experience on the road against an SEC opponent.
I wouldn't say I'm looking forward to next week's game against Alabama, nor to the entire October schedule, but it might just be the wake-up call we need to keep from becoming TOO over confident. Of course, it could also be the first indicator that this year will be far more special than anyone thought was realistic!
Just Joe
Offensive line, solid. John Brantley, solid. Receivers, solid. Running backs, amazing!
Defensive line, although they disappeared for a short stints, better than "solid." Linebackers, solid. Secondary...*drumroll*... solid!
Special teams, solid.
With such a young team (only 34 juniors and seniors combined) playing their first road SEC game, I could not have been more impressed, especially with how the game started. Their first two drives began at their own 12 and 8 yard lines, respectively. Kentucky's crowd and defense were bringing it. But after punting twice, the Gators were able to force and recover a fumble on Kentucky's second possession. After that, it was like a Piranha feeding frenzy. First play after the fumble, 45 yard touchdown pass, followed by a three and out by Kentucky inside their own 10 yard line. After receiving the ball on their own 42 yard line, 4 Gator plays later, touchdown. Next Kentucky possession, interception returned to the Kentucky 28 yard line. 2 plays later, the Gators scored their third touchdown in 4:02 of game time (2:08 of possession time). The rout was on.
The only glaring negative for the team was turnovers. But even there was a silver lining. Two of the turnovers were made by freshman quarterback Jeff Driskel. After subbing in for Brantley when he left for a short time due to injury, Driskel lost a fumble while in the pocket which led to Kentucky's only touchdown. Driskel then threw an interception in his next series while the Gators were driving to put points on the board at the end of the first half. The silver lining? Well, first, I'm glad he was able to make those mistakes in a 31-3 game. Second, he came back in at the end of the third quarter and finished out the game, gaining valuable experience on the road against an SEC opponent.
I wouldn't say I'm looking forward to next week's game against Alabama, nor to the entire October schedule, but it might just be the wake-up call we need to keep from becoming TOO over confident. Of course, it could also be the first indicator that this year will be far more special than anyone thought was realistic!
Just Joe
Et tu, Atlanta?
Back on June 8, I mocked the Chicago Cubs in my post Still the Team I Remember I mentioned how sick and tired I was of their losing ways. What I didn't mention was that I've put my support behind the Atlanta Braves. Few people know that I actually began rooting for them even before rooting for the Cubs. It was probably 1982 or 1983 when I first started watching the Atlanta Braves on TBS; Dale Murphy, Bob Horner, Rafael Ramirez, Chris Chambliss, etc.
So how is my first year as a reclaimed Braves fan? It started off quite well actually. The Braves were the popular pick in the preseason to win the National League wild-card with a few people even picking them to win the East. Through most of the year the Braves had the second-best record in the National League behind their East rivals Phillies. In fact, on the morning of September 1, although the Braves were well behind the Phillies for the East lead, they had an 8 1/2 game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals for the National League wild card! Smooth sailing with only one month to go! I mean, it's not like these are the Chicago Cubs...
Here I sit on the afternoon of September 26, after watching my Braves go 9-15 in September while those St. Louis Cardinals are 16-7 in September, just hoping against all hope that the Braves can hang on to their one-game lead with three games left to play! I'm pretty sure I jumped off the Cubs bandwagon because of situations just like these. The only difference at the moment is that I KNOW the Cubs would not be able to hang on to this one-game lead whereas I'm not really sure if the Braves will hang on. All of my Cubs training tells me it's a lost cause already but I sure hope the Braves won't let me down. I would hate to have to call them "the stupid Braves" after just one full year of fandom.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: LFL (... finally!)
So how is my first year as a reclaimed Braves fan? It started off quite well actually. The Braves were the popular pick in the preseason to win the National League wild-card with a few people even picking them to win the East. Through most of the year the Braves had the second-best record in the National League behind their East rivals Phillies. In fact, on the morning of September 1, although the Braves were well behind the Phillies for the East lead, they had an 8 1/2 game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals for the National League wild card! Smooth sailing with only one month to go! I mean, it's not like these are the Chicago Cubs...
Here I sit on the afternoon of September 26, after watching my Braves go 9-15 in September while those St. Louis Cardinals are 16-7 in September, just hoping against all hope that the Braves can hang on to their one-game lead with three games left to play! I'm pretty sure I jumped off the Cubs bandwagon because of situations just like these. The only difference at the moment is that I KNOW the Cubs would not be able to hang on to this one-game lead whereas I'm not really sure if the Braves will hang on. All of my Cubs training tells me it's a lost cause already but I sure hope the Braves won't let me down. I would hate to have to call them "the stupid Braves" after just one full year of fandom.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: LFL (... finally!)
Monday, September 19, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week #3
After a 33-23 victory in the Swamp over a game Tennessee team, a text I received from one of my Gator buddies sums up my feelings quite well, "Should've been by more but I'll take it!"
With 3 touchdowns and 4 field goals, the red zone/near red zone problems are still there, obviously. Way too many penalties! The freshman in the secondary were still freshmen after 2 games, go figure. And some questionable playcalling. Those are the only 4 gripes I can think of at the moment. The first two are pretty big complaints because they WILL cost the Gators victories over better teams. And although the secondary is young, the only way to improve is to play. Even with a promising season ahead, I'm already excited to see this defense for the next two years! As for the playcalling, it seemed like once it was 16-0, Charlie was more interested in showing off (reverse pass from the wildcat) than continuing what was successful. Of course, at that point he may have been feeling the pressure to score a touchdown after 1 touchdown and 3 field goals.
The offensive line looked stout, especially in the passing game. Sure there were a couple of sacks, but the rest of the plays Brantley stayed relatively clean. I'm not really sure I can say enough about Chris Rainey. I guess the most succinct thing I can say is he should be in the Heisman discussion. I know it's early and I know he splits time, but he does it all; over 100 yards rushing, over 100 yards receiving, returning punts and even blocking one this game (not to mention the blocked punt he returned for a touchdown). He definitely deserves consideration.
Special teams again looked great save one lousy punt from out of the end zone. Sturgis remains perfect on field goals and both coverage teams look superb.
All in all, I'll take that first SEC victory of the year!
Just Joe
PS The hardest part about writing about the Gators is not saying "we" and "us!"
With 3 touchdowns and 4 field goals, the red zone/near red zone problems are still there, obviously. Way too many penalties! The freshman in the secondary were still freshmen after 2 games, go figure. And some questionable playcalling. Those are the only 4 gripes I can think of at the moment. The first two are pretty big complaints because they WILL cost the Gators victories over better teams. And although the secondary is young, the only way to improve is to play. Even with a promising season ahead, I'm already excited to see this defense for the next two years! As for the playcalling, it seemed like once it was 16-0, Charlie was more interested in showing off (reverse pass from the wildcat) than continuing what was successful. Of course, at that point he may have been feeling the pressure to score a touchdown after 1 touchdown and 3 field goals.
The offensive line looked stout, especially in the passing game. Sure there were a couple of sacks, but the rest of the plays Brantley stayed relatively clean. I'm not really sure I can say enough about Chris Rainey. I guess the most succinct thing I can say is he should be in the Heisman discussion. I know it's early and I know he splits time, but he does it all; over 100 yards rushing, over 100 yards receiving, returning punts and even blocking one this game (not to mention the blocked punt he returned for a touchdown). He definitely deserves consideration.
Special teams again looked great save one lousy punt from out of the end zone. Sturgis remains perfect on field goals and both coverage teams look superb.
All in all, I'll take that first SEC victory of the year!
Just Joe
PS The hardest part about writing about the Gators is not saying "we" and "us!"
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Bottom of the Pile; Top of the World
I was wanting to save this for closer to World Series time but I've decided to open my old journal and share this now. I wrote this about 14 years ago so I was still a Cubs fan. I hope you like it.
Bottom of the Pile; Top of the World
Two are out, bases loaded and 1-nothing is the score.
I’ve thrown a hundred and forty pitches or more.
The pressure has built in inning number nine.
One out to go and glory can be mine.
This isn’t an ordinary game, it’s game 7.
To win this one would feel like heaven.
Since I was five I’ve yearned for this chance.
I turn to the stands and take a quick glance.
These 65,000 people have become a maniacal mob.
Back in the third inning my elbow began to throb.
Lucky for me my arm has long since been numb.
They love me now but one mistake and I’m “a bum.”
For 23 years this game has had my devotion.
Now millions of people hang on my every motion.
But my body is weak and my mind is tired.
I wish this hadn’t come down to the wire.
Okay, gather your strength, your thoughts and your mind.
The great ones look a bit deeper and have extra to find.
I know this guy wants to see my very best fastball.
Let’s look in to see what my catcher will call.
My mate thinks we should challenge him.
If I miss my spot, the result will be grim.
One inch off the outside corner? No problem.
Just grab two seams with two fingers and a thumb.
Come on, Ump! You gotta give me some of the black.
Can’t put it down the middle or it won’t come back.
Same pitch but this time let’s try the inside.
This is dangerous but it is a matter of pride.
Five hundred feet down the line! Whew! It’s foul.
What does the batter think? Whoa! What a scowl.
Definitely time to throw the ol’ slider.
I’m oh so tired but damnit, I’m a fighter.
Umph! The batter sure was fooled by the spin.
Give him the number one way up and way in.
Didn’t plan for it to be that close to his chin.
He’s alright. He dusted off and gave me a grin.
Catch your breath... take a stroll around the mound,
Fix the hat, play with the rosin bag that’s on the ground.
I’ll give him a slider ‘cause it’s nothing to pull.
Damn! It missed low and now the count is full.
Oh, Lord, I’m exhausted. Hows about a little relief?
How can such a great game cause me such grief?
Let’s end it now. Fastball down Broadway with all I can muster.
It’s either Alexander The Great or General Custer.
Uh oh! The hitter is taking a stride and a mighty swing!
He’s right on the ball. Don’t think I’ll win a ring.
I can’t believe it went straight back! God was smilin’.
Now I have another chance to send my team pilin’.
But I used my everything on that last pitch.
Now I know this effort will be last ditch.
I’ve no more ability to throw the ball hard,
so I’ll try to fool him though he’s on guard.
I’ll give him my pitch called the “circle change.”
Hopefully Lewis out in center will have the range.
I grip the ball in my hand just right
and make sure not to squeeze it too tight.
I release the ball at the perfect point.
Everyone is standing, I mean the entire joint.
After the swing, the ball gently enters the catcher’s mitt!
Then the batter goes off to have a fit.
After nearly a century filled with flubs,
the championship finally belongs to the Cubs.
Now my face can barely contain this ear to ear smile.
It sure is tough to breathe at the bottom of this pile!
Just Joe
Just Joe
Monday, September 12, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week 2 Impression
Having watched this game on television, what made the biggest impression on me can be summed up in two words... Kristina Akra! Apparently she's a former Gator & Heat dancer. I'll leave the googling to the readers.
Okay, I know it's hard to complain after a 39-0 shutout, which is pretty close to the 41-3 score last week, but I definitely feel like the team took a step backwards. I would be feeling much better if this had been game #1.
The defense was exposed a little more this week against UAB. The Gators had a heckuva time staying on side in the first quarter. I would have expected that in week one but not this week. They were bailed out on two calls that likely saved 10 points: the first was a holding call on UAB's first drive that stalled them out near field goal range and the second was of course the touchdown that was called back for an illegal shift. I feel like overall the defensive line still got a good bit of pressure and did well to stop the run. The secondary... well, let's just say that the two starting freshman looked like two starting freshman. It'll be interesting to see the defensive line next week when tackle Shariff Floyd returns from his two-game suspension.
The offense... maybe they should pretend that they are only allowed to score a touchdown from 20 yards or more away. Three short field goals in the first half against this team really isn't acceptable. With the schedule coming up, it's hard enough getting into the red zone but when you get there you need 7s not 3s. Again, it didn't much matter in this game but I'm trying to apply this to future SEC games. 4-12 on third-down conversions was a big problem as well. I was very excited to see Trey Burton so involved this week. I know he was injured during the game last week but watching Mr. Do Everything in action is really special; from running the dive option to trucking over some poor DB who must've been exhausted from earlier trying to keep up with Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps. I love watching those guys run. Chris Rainey scares me a little because when he's spinning like a gyroscope the ball gets a little loose. Ironically enough, his fumble took place when he was carrying the ball high and tight. The offensive line kept Brantley pretty clean, except when he was blasted on the first play of the game (the flea flicker). It was cool to see Charlie Weis open up the playbook a little just to give Tennessee a few things to prepare for.
The special teams was again very good. Another huge runback to start the game, plenty of field goals and even a punt or two! The only thing that bothered me a little was none of UAB's 6 punts were returned; not even the 47 yarder. Pretty minor but it would be nice to save a few yards there.
Okay, that's all of my nitpicking for this week. Bring on Tennessee!
Just Joe
Okay, I know it's hard to complain after a 39-0 shutout, which is pretty close to the 41-3 score last week, but I definitely feel like the team took a step backwards. I would be feeling much better if this had been game #1.
The defense was exposed a little more this week against UAB. The Gators had a heckuva time staying on side in the first quarter. I would have expected that in week one but not this week. They were bailed out on two calls that likely saved 10 points: the first was a holding call on UAB's first drive that stalled them out near field goal range and the second was of course the touchdown that was called back for an illegal shift. I feel like overall the defensive line still got a good bit of pressure and did well to stop the run. The secondary... well, let's just say that the two starting freshman looked like two starting freshman. It'll be interesting to see the defensive line next week when tackle Shariff Floyd returns from his two-game suspension.
The offense... maybe they should pretend that they are only allowed to score a touchdown from 20 yards or more away. Three short field goals in the first half against this team really isn't acceptable. With the schedule coming up, it's hard enough getting into the red zone but when you get there you need 7s not 3s. Again, it didn't much matter in this game but I'm trying to apply this to future SEC games. 4-12 on third-down conversions was a big problem as well. I was very excited to see Trey Burton so involved this week. I know he was injured during the game last week but watching Mr. Do Everything in action is really special; from running the dive option to trucking over some poor DB who must've been exhausted from earlier trying to keep up with Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps. I love watching those guys run. Chris Rainey scares me a little because when he's spinning like a gyroscope the ball gets a little loose. Ironically enough, his fumble took place when he was carrying the ball high and tight. The offensive line kept Brantley pretty clean, except when he was blasted on the first play of the game (the flea flicker). It was cool to see Charlie Weis open up the playbook a little just to give Tennessee a few things to prepare for.
The special teams was again very good. Another huge runback to start the game, plenty of field goals and even a punt or two! The only thing that bothered me a little was none of UAB's 6 punts were returned; not even the 47 yarder. Pretty minor but it would be nice to save a few yards there.
Okay, that's all of my nitpicking for this week. Bring on Tennessee!
Just Joe
Half-Lives
Apologies, I know this is a day late but the weather was over me yesterday...
Even though it makes me feel stupid sometimes, it's nice when someone points out how a piece of knowledge you already have can be applied to a bigger picture.
I'm sure a lot of us remember learning about or at least hearing about half-lives of elements. Basically, it's the amount of time it takes for half of the mass of an element to naturally dissolve into radiation. Even "stable" elements have half-lives.
Okay, so what? What's the big deal? Well, aside from that being the basis of the popular Carbon-14 dating, if you extrapolate half-lives out over an enormous number of years, everything simply becomes radiation. In fact, according to physicist Brian Cox of "Wonders of the Universe," every bit of matter in the universe will have deteriorated into radiation waves in something like a trillion, trillion, trillion... I believe he said "trillion" seven times -- so 1 trillion has 12 zeros, which means we're looking somewhere around 10^84. That is a number 1 followed by 85 zeros. SO in that many years, all matter that currently exists in the universe will be *poof* gone.
Now I'm not trying to create any existential crises here but anyone who had hope that humans would resist the urge to annihilate themselves AND that the earth itself would resist any natural, environmental changes AND that our race would actually make it out into space sometime before the sun swallows our planet, now we know that in 10^84 years, nothing will exist.
NOW what does it all mean?!
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Bottom of the Pile, Top of the World
Even though it makes me feel stupid sometimes, it's nice when someone points out how a piece of knowledge you already have can be applied to a bigger picture.
I'm sure a lot of us remember learning about or at least hearing about half-lives of elements. Basically, it's the amount of time it takes for half of the mass of an element to naturally dissolve into radiation. Even "stable" elements have half-lives.
Okay, so what? What's the big deal? Well, aside from that being the basis of the popular Carbon-14 dating, if you extrapolate half-lives out over an enormous number of years, everything simply becomes radiation. In fact, according to physicist Brian Cox of "Wonders of the Universe," every bit of matter in the universe will have deteriorated into radiation waves in something like a trillion, trillion, trillion... I believe he said "trillion" seven times -- so 1 trillion has 12 zeros, which means we're looking somewhere around 10^84. That is a number 1 followed by 85 zeros. SO in that many years, all matter that currently exists in the universe will be *poof* gone.
Now I'm not trying to create any existential crises here but anyone who had hope that humans would resist the urge to annihilate themselves AND that the earth itself would resist any natural, environmental changes AND that our race would actually make it out into space sometime before the sun swallows our planet, now we know that in 10^84 years, nothing will exist.
NOW what does it all mean?!
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Bottom of the Pile, Top of the World
Monday, September 5, 2011
Florida Gators -- Week 1 Impression
After beating FAU 41-3 I've seen a good bit of optimism floating around the Gator Nation. I wouldn't say I'm here to throw cold water on anyone's celebrations but I do think that those celebrations should be tempered.
I think the Gators looked as good as anyone could hope for after all the changes from last year. My grades would probably be Bs for the offense and defense with a special teams A bringing the overall grade to a B+.
John Brantley showed quite an arm on several early throws; a very nice combination of velocity and touch that seemed to elude him last year. The problem was his bad throws were VERY bad! One interception was not his fault (I blame the linemen who whiffed on his cut block) but the other was in the end zone into triple coverage. Eesh! And he had two other throws in the first half that should've been picked off and would've been picked off against a better team!
It was nice to see the Gators come out running the ball though. They weren't between the tackles very often but the offensive line did about as good a job as you would hope for against an overmatched FAU team. They didn't blow anyone off the ball but they opened enough holes to let the speedy running backs get through. (By the way, if those announcers called Jeffrey Demps "the fastest player in college football" one more time I might have had to punch something... even if it IS true.) The receivers looked outstanding. Even Deonte Thompson was holding onto footballs!
The defense looked outstanding in the first half. The defensive line in particular shutdown the run and probably had more quarterback pressures than all of last year. And they did it without blitzing! Coming out for the second half however, the Gators seemed to be trying out some blitz packages. The odd bit to me was that the defensive line seemed to get more pressure rushing 4 guys than when they would blitz. Good news for the standard pass rush, bad news for the blitz. The defense was also helped out by several dropped passes and errant throws by the Owls' offense. A big-time team would have burned them a few times.
What I was most excited about was the special teams play! That was one of my biggest concerns. Urban Meyer certainly stressed the importance of special teams and had plenty of blocked kicks to prove it. But in the first game to return a blocked punt for a touchdown, very nice! On top of that a 50 yard field goal from Caleb Sturgis who has always had the leg strength but not the accuracy.
There is definitely work that needs to be done by the time SEC play rolls around in two weeks, but for a first showing, it definitely appears they are on the right track.
Just Joe
**********************************************
Hey, Matthew. For some reason I'm not being able to leave comment responses so:
I agree with you. Auburn was the other game I considered for a possible win. But it is the third game of that West trilogy and it is on the road. We'll have to come out of those first two games healthy to have a chance. Of course, given the way Auburn played Saturday, I like our chances a lot more. Georgia too, for that matter.
I think the Gators looked as good as anyone could hope for after all the changes from last year. My grades would probably be Bs for the offense and defense with a special teams A bringing the overall grade to a B+.
John Brantley showed quite an arm on several early throws; a very nice combination of velocity and touch that seemed to elude him last year. The problem was his bad throws were VERY bad! One interception was not his fault (I blame the linemen who whiffed on his cut block) but the other was in the end zone into triple coverage. Eesh! And he had two other throws in the first half that should've been picked off and would've been picked off against a better team!
It was nice to see the Gators come out running the ball though. They weren't between the tackles very often but the offensive line did about as good a job as you would hope for against an overmatched FAU team. They didn't blow anyone off the ball but they opened enough holes to let the speedy running backs get through. (By the way, if those announcers called Jeffrey Demps "the fastest player in college football" one more time I might have had to punch something... even if it IS true.) The receivers looked outstanding. Even Deonte Thompson was holding onto footballs!
The defense looked outstanding in the first half. The defensive line in particular shutdown the run and probably had more quarterback pressures than all of last year. And they did it without blitzing! Coming out for the second half however, the Gators seemed to be trying out some blitz packages. The odd bit to me was that the defensive line seemed to get more pressure rushing 4 guys than when they would blitz. Good news for the standard pass rush, bad news for the blitz. The defense was also helped out by several dropped passes and errant throws by the Owls' offense. A big-time team would have burned them a few times.
What I was most excited about was the special teams play! That was one of my biggest concerns. Urban Meyer certainly stressed the importance of special teams and had plenty of blocked kicks to prove it. But in the first game to return a blocked punt for a touchdown, very nice! On top of that a 50 yard field goal from Caleb Sturgis who has always had the leg strength but not the accuracy.
There is definitely work that needs to be done by the time SEC play rolls around in two weeks, but for a first showing, it definitely appears they are on the right track.
Just Joe
**********************************************
Hey, Matthew. For some reason I'm not being able to leave comment responses so:
I agree with you. Auburn was the other game I considered for a possible win. But it is the third game of that West trilogy and it is on the road. We'll have to come out of those first two games healthy to have a chance. Of course, given the way Auburn played Saturday, I like our chances a lot more. Georgia too, for that matter.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Voiceovers
Okay, LFL is being kicked aside again... so I can discuss a pet peeve of mine.
I'm sure just about everyone has watched a documentary or informative television show on the History Channel or someplace similar. Does it bug you as much as it bugs me when a voiceover that is reading a letter or quoting a speech from a foreign figure has the accent of the country of origin of the letter or speech? I don't just mean a light, pleasant accent. Sometimes those are very pleasing and can almost add a certain authenticity. Well at least it can help submerse a viewer into the program. But on many occasions the voiceovers have such thick accents that it takes effort to understand. He or she might as well be reading the letter in its original language! Check out nearly any World War II documentary. I'm certain I understand Adolf better when he's speaking German than when I hear the voiceover that sounds like a German pronouncing a list of random English words for the first time.
How about when quoting one of our forefathers? Did all of them really speak so arrogantly? I'm currently reading Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and although he structures his sentences very nicely, I don't really get that Thurston Howell III feel about him. Of course, I'm only about a third of the way through. Back on topic, whenever I hear a voiceover representing his voice, it sounds more like a voice from a Dave Chapelle skit.
It is said that Abraham Lincoln had a bit of a high, possibly nasally, voice. So why does it sound like James Earl Jones is doing his voiceovers? How about going for real authenticity and having Jerry Lewis (circa 1960) doing Abraham Lincoln. Think, "Hey, lady!" does "End slav'ry!"
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Half Lives
I'm sure just about everyone has watched a documentary or informative television show on the History Channel or someplace similar. Does it bug you as much as it bugs me when a voiceover that is reading a letter or quoting a speech from a foreign figure has the accent of the country of origin of the letter or speech? I don't just mean a light, pleasant accent. Sometimes those are very pleasing and can almost add a certain authenticity. Well at least it can help submerse a viewer into the program. But on many occasions the voiceovers have such thick accents that it takes effort to understand. He or she might as well be reading the letter in its original language! Check out nearly any World War II documentary. I'm certain I understand Adolf better when he's speaking German than when I hear the voiceover that sounds like a German pronouncing a list of random English words for the first time.
How about when quoting one of our forefathers? Did all of them really speak so arrogantly? I'm currently reading Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and although he structures his sentences very nicely, I don't really get that Thurston Howell III feel about him. Of course, I'm only about a third of the way through. Back on topic, whenever I hear a voiceover representing his voice, it sounds more like a voice from a Dave Chapelle skit.
It is said that Abraham Lincoln had a bit of a high, possibly nasally, voice. So why does it sound like James Earl Jones is doing his voiceovers? How about going for real authenticity and having Jerry Lewis (circa 1960) doing Abraham Lincoln. Think, "Hey, lady!" does "End slav'ry!"
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Half Lives
Friday, September 2, 2011
Florida Gators 2011 Prediction
It's that time of year... COLLEGE FOOTBALL!
This year's Florida Gators are a virtual blank slate. With a new head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator and several assistants, no one actually knows what to expect. We know what we are hoping for, 14-0 and the national championship, but that feels as likely to happen as during the Ron Zook years. My realistic outlook is FAR less encouraging.
Quarterback John Brantley will be in his second year as a starter after last year's debacle of trying to make a pure pocket passer into a spread quarterback. The boos from the home crowd certainly must have messed with his head. Will Brantley developed into the quarterback he was touted to be coming out of high school? I'd love to say yes because he's such a nice kid but last year he looked like a freshman -- even on straight drop back plays -- and this year he might as well be since he's learning a whole new offense. Watch out for freshman hotshot Jeff Driskel to get a decent bit of playing time when possible this year. I have read a lot of good things about him.
The offensive line has a few new starters which is never good. Except maybe in this case! Luckily they all had playing time last year so it's not completely new to them. The Gators are still in search of playmakers out wide. Will Chris Rainey and Jeffrey Demps be as explosive running behind a fullback?
Their strength should definitely be the defense, particularly the defensive line. The Gators are switching to a 3-4 base which I really like, provided they can stop the run with only three down linemen. In recent years stopping the run with four down linemen seemed challenging enough. But this is where I think Will Muschamp will flex his muscle. There is big-time talent on the defensive line and Muschamp will make this unit shine.
The schedule this year is absolutely brutal for the Florida Gators. Playing in the SEC is bad enough but their opponents from the West this year include Alabama, @LSU and @Auburn. Not only are those 3 of the last 4 BCS Champions but those games are played in 3 consecutive weeks. October will be rough. Luckily the fourth game in October is only against Georgia, our longest standing rival. All of a sudden the 3 cupcakes on our schedule will be necessary just to make 6-6 achievable. Unfortunately, yes, that is my prediction for this year's team, 6-6. 7-5 isn't out of the question but I'm not sure where the seventh victory would come. POSSIBLY Georgia? The other two games that look like losses right now are @South Carolina and vs. Florida State. Blecch! I just threw up in my mouth.
I'm sure plenty of people think I'm a pessimist but it would take a great team to get through that with only two losses. After watching the first game last season against Miami University, I predicted a five loss season based on the pathetic play of the offense of line. I was right last year but I certainly hope I'm way off this year... but in a good direction!
Just Joe
This year's Florida Gators are a virtual blank slate. With a new head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator and several assistants, no one actually knows what to expect. We know what we are hoping for, 14-0 and the national championship, but that feels as likely to happen as during the Ron Zook years. My realistic outlook is FAR less encouraging.
Quarterback John Brantley will be in his second year as a starter after last year's debacle of trying to make a pure pocket passer into a spread quarterback. The boos from the home crowd certainly must have messed with his head. Will Brantley developed into the quarterback he was touted to be coming out of high school? I'd love to say yes because he's such a nice kid but last year he looked like a freshman -- even on straight drop back plays -- and this year he might as well be since he's learning a whole new offense. Watch out for freshman hotshot Jeff Driskel to get a decent bit of playing time when possible this year. I have read a lot of good things about him.
The offensive line has a few new starters which is never good. Except maybe in this case! Luckily they all had playing time last year so it's not completely new to them. The Gators are still in search of playmakers out wide. Will Chris Rainey and Jeffrey Demps be as explosive running behind a fullback?
Their strength should definitely be the defense, particularly the defensive line. The Gators are switching to a 3-4 base which I really like, provided they can stop the run with only three down linemen. In recent years stopping the run with four down linemen seemed challenging enough. But this is where I think Will Muschamp will flex his muscle. There is big-time talent on the defensive line and Muschamp will make this unit shine.
The schedule this year is absolutely brutal for the Florida Gators. Playing in the SEC is bad enough but their opponents from the West this year include Alabama, @LSU and @Auburn. Not only are those 3 of the last 4 BCS Champions but those games are played in 3 consecutive weeks. October will be rough. Luckily the fourth game in October is only against Georgia, our longest standing rival. All of a sudden the 3 cupcakes on our schedule will be necessary just to make 6-6 achievable. Unfortunately, yes, that is my prediction for this year's team, 6-6. 7-5 isn't out of the question but I'm not sure where the seventh victory would come. POSSIBLY Georgia? The other two games that look like losses right now are @South Carolina and vs. Florida State. Blecch! I just threw up in my mouth.
I'm sure plenty of people think I'm a pessimist but it would take a great team to get through that with only two losses. After watching the first game last season against Miami University, I predicted a five loss season based on the pathetic play of the offense of line. I was right last year but I certainly hope I'm way off this year... but in a good direction!
Just Joe
Sunday, August 28, 2011
It's Just 5 Yards... Right?
LFL can wait until next week. It's kind of embarrassing anyway...
The NFL has moved the spot for kickoffs up 5 yards from the 30 to the 35 yard line. When I first heard about it I didn't think it would be a really big deal. It was just 1994 that kickoffs were moved back to the 30 yard line anyway. So what could happen in 17 years that would make this a big deal? I even heard somewhere that the average kickoff last year ended up 5 1/4 yards in front of the goal line. So logic would tell me the average kickoff from the new spot should end up just about at the goal line. But through three weeks of the preseason it looks like I was WAY off! In fact, I can't believe the uproar it has caused amongst players and sportswriters alike.
So far in the preseason, kickers seem to be booting the ball out of the back of the end zone (10 yards) for touchbacks quite regularly. So how is it that moving the ball forward 5 yards gets the ball kicked 15 yards past the average landing spot last year? Well, my initial thought concerns how the average landing spot last year was determined*. But even so, I've seen a few kickers put the ball through the uprights on kickoffs. If kickers are able to do that from the 35 yard line, shouldn't they have been able to put the ball at least 5-7 yards deep in the end zone last year from the 30 yard line? Sounds logical to me but that doesn't seem to be the way it's working.
I suppose there are also warm weather considerations. But how much further will a ball travel in warm air than cold (wind is not a consideration)? To me it seems like the added humidity of summer would cancel out the air density factors of warm air versus cold. So, maybe the ball travels 2-3 yards further in summer?
Anyway, all of this is my long-winded way of saying, "I don't get it, how does 5 yards become 15?" Maybe someone can explain it to me.
Just Joe
* Was every kick into the end zone just considered a "zero" when calculating the average or was the depth into the end zone considered? Example: let's look at two different calculation scenarios. Let's say a kickoff lands at the 5 yard line and a second kickoff lands 7 yards deep into the end zone. If every kick into the end zone is simply considered a touchback -- probably considered the 0 yard line -- then the average of those two kicks would be 2 1/2 yards in front of the end zone. If the 7 yards into the end zone is considered, then the average would actually be -1 or 1 yard into the endzone.
NEXT WEEK: LFL (maybe)
The NFL has moved the spot for kickoffs up 5 yards from the 30 to the 35 yard line. When I first heard about it I didn't think it would be a really big deal. It was just 1994 that kickoffs were moved back to the 30 yard line anyway. So what could happen in 17 years that would make this a big deal? I even heard somewhere that the average kickoff last year ended up 5 1/4 yards in front of the goal line. So logic would tell me the average kickoff from the new spot should end up just about at the goal line. But through three weeks of the preseason it looks like I was WAY off! In fact, I can't believe the uproar it has caused amongst players and sportswriters alike.
So far in the preseason, kickers seem to be booting the ball out of the back of the end zone (10 yards) for touchbacks quite regularly. So how is it that moving the ball forward 5 yards gets the ball kicked 15 yards past the average landing spot last year? Well, my initial thought concerns how the average landing spot last year was determined*. But even so, I've seen a few kickers put the ball through the uprights on kickoffs. If kickers are able to do that from the 35 yard line, shouldn't they have been able to put the ball at least 5-7 yards deep in the end zone last year from the 30 yard line? Sounds logical to me but that doesn't seem to be the way it's working.
I suppose there are also warm weather considerations. But how much further will a ball travel in warm air than cold (wind is not a consideration)? To me it seems like the added humidity of summer would cancel out the air density factors of warm air versus cold. So, maybe the ball travels 2-3 yards further in summer?
Anyway, all of this is my long-winded way of saying, "I don't get it, how does 5 yards become 15?" Maybe someone can explain it to me.
Just Joe
* Was every kick into the end zone just considered a "zero" when calculating the average or was the depth into the end zone considered? Example: let's look at two different calculation scenarios. Let's say a kickoff lands at the 5 yard line and a second kickoff lands 7 yards deep into the end zone. If every kick into the end zone is simply considered a touchback -- probably considered the 0 yard line -- then the average of those two kicks would be 2 1/2 yards in front of the end zone. If the 7 yards into the end zone is considered, then the average would actually be -1 or 1 yard into the endzone.
NEXT WEEK: LFL (maybe)
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Young vs. Old
Going to the grocery store with my mom is pretty routine; enter through the front doors, start off to the right towards the deli, then the bakery, then produce and up and down each necessary aisle. She goes through the checkout line while I wait up front for her -- since it gives me the opportunity to people watch. Then a bagger helps us to the van, helps unload and then receives his or her two dollar tip.
This week I noticed a little play that made me chuckle:
My mom was checking out and a young man, probably 20 years old or so, who I didn't recognize was bagging her groceries. Of course the bagger was chatting with the cashier while he worked. Meanwhile an older gentleman, probably 65 years old or so, who has helped us before came over and also started bagging my mom's groceries. By this point it looked more like the young bagger was closer to flirting with the cashier than just talking. Slowly the older bagger began to take control of the bagging situation and the young guy just sort of stepped aside and continued flirting. Now, I can't say for sure what the older man's motivation was but I'm guessing it was the $2 because, well, frankly, it helps my story.
Anyway, I thought it was a pretty neat display of a young man's attitude versus an experienced man's attitude. While the young man would rather flirt with a gal, the experienced man swoops in, works just a wee bit harder and earns an extra two bucks. I know, I know, it's two bucks. But it beats earning zero extra dollars just standing around, right? To me, it sounds like a modern day fable by Aesop. Maybe I should change the main characters to sheep or foxes?
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: LFL
This week I noticed a little play that made me chuckle:
My mom was checking out and a young man, probably 20 years old or so, who I didn't recognize was bagging her groceries. Of course the bagger was chatting with the cashier while he worked. Meanwhile an older gentleman, probably 65 years old or so, who has helped us before came over and also started bagging my mom's groceries. By this point it looked more like the young bagger was closer to flirting with the cashier than just talking. Slowly the older bagger began to take control of the bagging situation and the young guy just sort of stepped aside and continued flirting. Now, I can't say for sure what the older man's motivation was but I'm guessing it was the $2 because, well, frankly, it helps my story.
Anyway, I thought it was a pretty neat display of a young man's attitude versus an experienced man's attitude. While the young man would rather flirt with a gal, the experienced man swoops in, works just a wee bit harder and earns an extra two bucks. I know, I know, it's two bucks. But it beats earning zero extra dollars just standing around, right? To me, it sounds like a modern day fable by Aesop. Maybe I should change the main characters to sheep or foxes?
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: LFL
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Two Very Different Things
A few weeks ago I was watching the remake of "The Karate Kid." It was a nice little movie but, of course, it couldn't match the original. Whenever something strikes you emotionally as a kid, it's hard to match as an adult... especially when the "karate" kid is actually learning kung fu. But I digress. There was a quote in the movie that made me mentally high-five myself. When I first heard it I was pretty sure it must have come from some ancient Eastern philosopher because it was so simple and true yet seemingly unconventional.
Now, being an introvert I find that I often need alone time with my thoughts, especially if I've been around a group of people for any length of time. But over the years I've realized that this alone time is WAY different than the alone time I spend just being lazy and doing nothing.
Okay, back to the movie. Jackie Chan's character, Mr. Han, was pointing out to student Dre a woman who was holding a difficult and awkward looking pose while a cobra sat coiled just a foot or two away from her face. When asked if he saw what the woman was doing, Dre answered, "she isn't doing anything." After explaining how the woman was connecting with the Chi ("life force") around her, Mr. Han succinctly summarized his correction into one, ten word sentence.
"Wow, that totally has to be Confuscious or Buddha," I thought. After many web searches I could not find the quote attributed to any source other than the movie. So congrats to either Christopher Murphy (screenplay) or Robert Mark Kamen (story), the writer of:
"Being still and doing nothing are two very different things."
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Young vs. Old
Now, being an introvert I find that I often need alone time with my thoughts, especially if I've been around a group of people for any length of time. But over the years I've realized that this alone time is WAY different than the alone time I spend just being lazy and doing nothing.
Okay, back to the movie. Jackie Chan's character, Mr. Han, was pointing out to student Dre a woman who was holding a difficult and awkward looking pose while a cobra sat coiled just a foot or two away from her face. When asked if he saw what the woman was doing, Dre answered, "she isn't doing anything." After explaining how the woman was connecting with the Chi ("life force") around her, Mr. Han succinctly summarized his correction into one, ten word sentence.
"Wow, that totally has to be Confuscious or Buddha," I thought. After many web searches I could not find the quote attributed to any source other than the movie. So congrats to either Christopher Murphy (screenplay) or Robert Mark Kamen (story), the writer of:
"Being still and doing nothing are two very different things."
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Young vs. Old
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Cows vs. Tigers
I was watching a documentary about the illegal poaching of wild tigers in Asia. Apparently tiger parts are used, and have been used for thousands of years, in holistic Chinese medicine. One of the more popular uses is to make Tiger Bone Wine. After much outcry the practice of killing wild tigers, selling tiger parts and selling concoctions made with tiger parts has become illegal -- although the undercover reporter had no problem finding the black market.
Did I mention that tigers are on the endangered species list? So there's this facility in China that took 10 tigers from the wild and began mating them. Now they "have more tigers than they can count," per the woman giving the tour of the facility. The head scratcher is that no tigers have been re-released into the wild. The theory is essentially that this facility is breeding tigers to provide underground access to Tiger Bone Wine and such. That sounds pretty abominable, right?
Well, I got to thinking... why is that different than what the United States does with cows? Currently the only wild cows in the United States are of the bison variety. The domestic cow, Bos taurus, no longer roams free but are, of course, bred and used for meat, dairy, leather, etc. So I wonder if there is outrage in India, where the cow is sacred, with people doing documentaries on how Americans breed this would be extinct animal for consumption? Is the only difference that the tiger is really cool looking? Or maybe because tigers looks majestic yet cuddly? Maybe the wild, domestic cow became extinct before people knew they were supposed to be outraged?
I could be way off on this but it was just a thought. I mean, I see the legal difference but not the moral difference.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Two Very Different Things
Did I mention that tigers are on the endangered species list? So there's this facility in China that took 10 tigers from the wild and began mating them. Now they "have more tigers than they can count," per the woman giving the tour of the facility. The head scratcher is that no tigers have been re-released into the wild. The theory is essentially that this facility is breeding tigers to provide underground access to Tiger Bone Wine and such. That sounds pretty abominable, right?
Well, I got to thinking... why is that different than what the United States does with cows? Currently the only wild cows in the United States are of the bison variety. The domestic cow, Bos taurus, no longer roams free but are, of course, bred and used for meat, dairy, leather, etc. So I wonder if there is outrage in India, where the cow is sacred, with people doing documentaries on how Americans breed this would be extinct animal for consumption? Is the only difference that the tiger is really cool looking? Or maybe because tigers looks majestic yet cuddly? Maybe the wild, domestic cow became extinct before people knew they were supposed to be outraged?
I could be way off on this but it was just a thought. I mean, I see the legal difference but not the moral difference.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Two Very Different Things
Friday, August 5, 2011
UFC 133: Update
Quick update on UFC 133 tomorrow night. There's been one more injury that has affected two of the scheduled fights. A fighter in one matchup is replacing the injured fighter of another matchup. Eesh.
Just Joe
Just Joe
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
I Despise Politics
How much do millionaires and billionaires think their money will be worth after the revolution? Sure, it won't happen in this generation or the next or the next. But we (the United States) are certainly on that path. Remember Rome; the mightiest military ever... rotted from the inside and "poof!” Remember nearly every power in World War I; working-class pushed to the brink while huge inflation and skyrocketing food prices nearly starved them? Workers actually went on strike during the war! Well, except for England because they gave into worker demands and had the morale boost that went along with it. Remember Tunisia way back in December 2010? Egypt, January 2011? Libya, Syria, as I type? People will only be beaten down so long. It seems like we want to beat them just to the point where they are miserable but it could still be worse. Why beat them at all? I'm no historian but even I can see a country doomed to repeat the mistakes of ancestors passed.
Sorry, I just felt like venting.
Sorry, I just felt like venting.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Comedian of the Week: Pete Correale
Pete Correale
A couple of years ago I saw his special on Comedy Central. It has been saved on my DVR ever since then and I've seen the show somewhere around 25 times. I just watched it again this past weekend and I still teared up two or three times! Now I know that comedy is sort of like food in that personal taste is the deciding factor of enjoyment... and of course whether or not you relate to the comedian's topics. So I won't feel badly if you hate it. I found a few clips from the special Pete Correale: The Things We Do for Love. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Ikea (2:32)
Drinking (2:16)
Music Lessons (1:53)
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Cows vs. Tigers
A couple of years ago I saw his special on Comedy Central. It has been saved on my DVR ever since then and I've seen the show somewhere around 25 times. I just watched it again this past weekend and I still teared up two or three times! Now I know that comedy is sort of like food in that personal taste is the deciding factor of enjoyment... and of course whether or not you relate to the comedian's topics. So I won't feel badly if you hate it. I found a few clips from the special Pete Correale: The Things We Do for Love. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Ikea (2:32)
Drinking (2:16)
Music Lessons (1:53)
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Cows vs. Tigers
Saturday, July 30, 2011
What a Prayer!
I'm sure most people have seen this but just in case anyone missed Joe Helms' HI-larious pre-race invocation at the Nascar Nationwide series race in Nashville TN July 23, 2011: Pre-Race Prayer
And it was just a matter of time until the prayer made it to song form: Sing it, Joe!
Just Joe
And it was just a matter of time until the prayer made it to song form: Sing it, Joe!
Just Joe
Sunday, July 24, 2011
MMA Frustration
Over the past 6 years or so I've become a pretty big fan of MMA. To avoid confusion, I'm referring to the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and not the Massachusetts Municipal Association nor the Mobile Marketing Association. I truly get a kick (no pun intended) out of watching milennia old techniques being executed in a true-ish to life setting. I completely respect the fundamentals of each discipline -- boxing's jab, Muay Thai's teep, etc. -- but, of course, the exotic, more flashy techniques are my favorites. Who will ever forget Anthony Pettis's crazy kick in the 5th round of a title fight?!
But over the years it seems like injuries during training are on the rise. Including the upcoming UFC 133 event scheduled for August 6, 6 of the last 9 UFC cards, dating back to March 19, 2011, have had changes to the main event. That's not to mention the non-main event fights. UFC 133, for example, was originally to be headlined by former champ Rashad Evans vs. current champ Jon Jones for the light heavyweight championship. Unfortunately Jon Jones pulled out of the fight to have thumb surgery. Replacing Jones was the up-and-coming, undefeated Phil Davis... until he was injured in training and slated to have knee surgery. As it stands now, Evans will be fighting long time UFC veteran Tito Ortiz. I'll spare you the juicy back stories but suffice it to say that Ortiz vs. Evans is not Evans vs. Jones.
At the same UFC 133, FIVE other fight matchups have been altered or scrapped completely due to fighter injuries! Ok, so one is because of a car accident but that doesn't help my case.
Originally Became Reason
Nogueira vs Franklin Scrapped Nogueira (shoulder)
Pace vs. MacDonald Pace vs. Menjivar MacDonald replaced
an injured fighter at UFC 130
Mendes vs. Aldo (Champ) Rahya vs. Mendes Aldo (neck)
Matyushenko vs. Gustafsson Hamill vs. Gustafsson Matyushenko (undisclosed injury)
Fukuda vs. Natal Phillipou vs. Natal Fukuda (car accident/knee)
This being just one card at one event, it's easy to see how a fan's frustration can mount. I won't bother listing the other five main events that were recently altered. But how about this tidbit: Jones became champ by filling in for Evans at UFC 128 when Evans was injured training for that same title fight.
So the question becomes "what can be done to remedy the situation?" Well, you can't really ask fighters not to train as hard. Who would risk their personal safety like that? On top of that, the fights would not be as entertaining without proper, well executed technique. So, my solution is... ummm... uhhh... Okay, so I don't have a solution but I can still be frustrated and disappointed, right?
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Comedian of the Week
But over the years it seems like injuries during training are on the rise. Including the upcoming UFC 133 event scheduled for August 6, 6 of the last 9 UFC cards, dating back to March 19, 2011, have had changes to the main event. That's not to mention the non-main event fights. UFC 133, for example, was originally to be headlined by former champ Rashad Evans vs. current champ Jon Jones for the light heavyweight championship. Unfortunately Jon Jones pulled out of the fight to have thumb surgery. Replacing Jones was the up-and-coming, undefeated Phil Davis... until he was injured in training and slated to have knee surgery. As it stands now, Evans will be fighting long time UFC veteran Tito Ortiz. I'll spare you the juicy back stories but suffice it to say that Ortiz vs. Evans is not Evans vs. Jones.
At the same UFC 133, FIVE other fight matchups have been altered or scrapped completely due to fighter injuries! Ok, so one is because of a car accident but that doesn't help my case.
Originally Became Reason
Nogueira vs Franklin Scrapped Nogueira (shoulder)
Pace vs. MacDonald Pace vs. Menjivar MacDonald replaced
an injured fighter at UFC 130
Mendes vs. Aldo (Champ) Rahya vs. Mendes Aldo (neck)
Matyushenko vs. Gustafsson Hamill vs. Gustafsson Matyushenko (undisclosed injury)
Fukuda vs. Natal Phillipou vs. Natal Fukuda (car accident/knee)
This being just one card at one event, it's easy to see how a fan's frustration can mount. I won't bother listing the other five main events that were recently altered. But how about this tidbit: Jones became champ by filling in for Evans at UFC 128 when Evans was injured training for that same title fight.
So the question becomes "what can be done to remedy the situation?" Well, you can't really ask fighters not to train as hard. Who would risk their personal safety like that? On top of that, the fights would not be as entertaining without proper, well executed technique. So, my solution is... ummm... uhhh... Okay, so I don't have a solution but I can still be frustrated and disappointed, right?
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Comedian of the Week
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The Miracle Fruit
I'm feeling pretty lazy this week so I'm just going to cite an online article that has all the information I was going to plagiarize anyway: The Miracle Fruit
Basically there is a fruit native to Western Africa that was "discovered" by Robert Harvey in the 1960s. The nearly olive sized, reddish fruit had a peculiar property in that after eating this fruit whatever was eaten next would taste much sweeter. The scientific explanation can be found here. The compound creating this effect, Miraculin, was isolated and reproduced. Foods could taste sweeter without the addition of sugar or sugar substitutes and without the addition of any calories! Some of the uses for the compound would be for the benefit of diabetics, cancer patients and people trying to lose weight. There were some pretty fishy goings-on that led to the compound being buried for quite some time. (This is the part of the article you really should read. Hopefully by only referring to the article, I won't be put on any government lists.)
On a brighter note, thanks to the 70s, "flavor tripping" parties became an underground success. People got together to eat the berries and then try out various normally sour or bitter foods to play with different flavor combinations. YouTube is littered with videos of modern parties as they seem to be regaining popularity. The most common reaction to a lemon, for instance, is that it tastes like lemonade. Followed closely by, "This is the best lemon I've ever had!"
Well, look at that, I guess I didn't feel quite as lazy as I thought. But this really is only the very short version.
********* SPOILER ALERT **************
Although Miraculin has not been approved as a food additive or artificial sweetening agent and is therefore not found in commercial food products, since the publishing of that article, freeze-dried miracle fruit, pill forms and powder forms of Miraculin can be purchased.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: An MMA Fan's Frustration
Basically there is a fruit native to Western Africa that was "discovered" by Robert Harvey in the 1960s. The nearly olive sized, reddish fruit had a peculiar property in that after eating this fruit whatever was eaten next would taste much sweeter. The scientific explanation can be found here. The compound creating this effect, Miraculin, was isolated and reproduced. Foods could taste sweeter without the addition of sugar or sugar substitutes and without the addition of any calories! Some of the uses for the compound would be for the benefit of diabetics, cancer patients and people trying to lose weight. There were some pretty fishy goings-on that led to the compound being buried for quite some time. (This is the part of the article you really should read. Hopefully by only referring to the article, I won't be put on any government lists.)
On a brighter note, thanks to the 70s, "flavor tripping" parties became an underground success. People got together to eat the berries and then try out various normally sour or bitter foods to play with different flavor combinations. YouTube is littered with videos of modern parties as they seem to be regaining popularity. The most common reaction to a lemon, for instance, is that it tastes like lemonade. Followed closely by, "This is the best lemon I've ever had!"
Well, look at that, I guess I didn't feel quite as lazy as I thought. But this really is only the very short version.
********* SPOILER ALERT **************
Although Miraculin has not been approved as a food additive or artificial sweetening agent and is therefore not found in commercial food products, since the publishing of that article, freeze-dried miracle fruit, pill forms and powder forms of Miraculin can be purchased.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: An MMA Fan's Frustration
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Derek Jeter, Roger Clemens
-- Back on July 9 Derek Jeter entered the exclusive 3000 hits club in style by hitting his third home run of the season. The sub story was that of one Christian Lopez. He was the 23-year-old young man who caught the home run ball. Shortly after doing so he was swept away by Yankee Stadium security where he, without hesitation, freely handed the ball over. After the fact, some people have estimated the ball's value as high as $200,000 on the open market! Lopez has received tens of thousands of dollars worth of gifts from the Yankees and other New York businesses as a pat on the back. So the raging question in sports talk became "What would you have done if you caught the ball?" Well, here's what I would have done if I had caught the ball: I would have taken a pair of tiny scissors and cut the seams of the baseball. After burning the threads I would have fed the leather casing through a shredder, unraveled the 319 yards of wool yarn, lit one end like a wick and waited for the rubber center to be exposed. Then after peeling off the two thin rubber layers, I would throw the cork center into a recycle bin. Inside a Modern Baseball
"Why the hatred, Just Joe?" Well, it doesn't have anything to do with Jeter himself. It's hard not to respect that dude. It has more to do with the over coverage of the Yankees. Yankees this and Yankees that... it is made to seem like baseball wouldn't exist without them. So why is being overcovered their fault? Mostly, it isn't. I blame the media (coughing towards "The Ship of Mothers") and its reporters. I never fully bought into the "East Coast bias"that is claimed by non-East Coasters. But if you want to talk about a Northeast bias, particularly New York and Boston, I'm with you (yes, I see the irony). So my destruction of the baseball has more to do with punishing the Yankees and the reporters who have instilled this hatred in me.
I would like to add however that Mr. Jeter should have been at the All-Star game. If he didn't want to play, fine. But you were voted by fans the starting shortstop for the American League and you didn't make it because of "mental exhaustion?" I don't even know where to begin with that. I'll just say we should all be so lucky to have the "stress" of our imminent 3000th hit. Just get on the private jet, tip your cap and fly home. On the other hand, after 16 years of seemingly perfect decision-making, he is allowed to mess up one decision.
-- And finally for today, Roger Clemens. The perjury trial against him began and there's already a rumor/speculation that Clemens will not testify. I understand the Fifth Amendment and that Clemens does not have to testify against himself and that it is a wise strategy for being found "not guilty," but that is way different than being found "innocent." If you're trying to scream from every mountaintop to maintain your innocence, then don't defend yourself by merely poking holes in the character of the main witness against you. Get up there and take the heat. If you do that then there might actually be a chance to recover your reputation. But to say "I swear I didn't do it" with your only defense being that the accuser is of poor moral character... doesn't quite scream innocence.
Just Joe
*********************** UPDATE *************************
Don't you love it when you comment on an ongoing trial only to find out 30 seconds after clicking "Publish Post" that the trial has been declared a "mistrial?" Thanks a lot, screwy prosecution! My guess is that Clemens skates. As much as you can't let anyone get away with lying to Congress, allegedly, I'm not sure we want to spend the money involved in starting from square one.
"Why the hatred, Just Joe?" Well, it doesn't have anything to do with Jeter himself. It's hard not to respect that dude. It has more to do with the over coverage of the Yankees. Yankees this and Yankees that... it is made to seem like baseball wouldn't exist without them. So why is being overcovered their fault? Mostly, it isn't. I blame the media (coughing towards "The Ship of Mothers") and its reporters. I never fully bought into the "East Coast bias"that is claimed by non-East Coasters. But if you want to talk about a Northeast bias, particularly New York and Boston, I'm with you (yes, I see the irony). So my destruction of the baseball has more to do with punishing the Yankees and the reporters who have instilled this hatred in me.
I would like to add however that Mr. Jeter should have been at the All-Star game. If he didn't want to play, fine. But you were voted by fans the starting shortstop for the American League and you didn't make it because of "mental exhaustion?" I don't even know where to begin with that. I'll just say we should all be so lucky to have the "stress" of our imminent 3000th hit. Just get on the private jet, tip your cap and fly home. On the other hand, after 16 years of seemingly perfect decision-making, he is allowed to mess up one decision.
-- And finally for today, Roger Clemens. The perjury trial against him began and there's already a rumor/speculation that Clemens will not testify. I understand the Fifth Amendment and that Clemens does not have to testify against himself and that it is a wise strategy for being found "not guilty," but that is way different than being found "innocent." If you're trying to scream from every mountaintop to maintain your innocence, then don't defend yourself by merely poking holes in the character of the main witness against you. Get up there and take the heat. If you do that then there might actually be a chance to recover your reputation. But to say "I swear I didn't do it" with your only defense being that the accuser is of poor moral character... doesn't quite scream innocence.
Just Joe
*********************** UPDATE *************************
Don't you love it when you comment on an ongoing trial only to find out 30 seconds after clicking "Publish Post" that the trial has been declared a "mistrial?" Thanks a lot, screwy prosecution! My guess is that Clemens skates. As much as you can't let anyone get away with lying to Congress, allegedly, I'm not sure we want to spend the money involved in starting from square one.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Story Time with Grampa Joe: My First X Games
Chicago Suburbs, Summer of 1983: Way too short shorts worn with tube socks stretched to the brink of failure was all the rage.
My 8 year old friends and I were finally comfortable enough riding our bikes that we decided to introduce a rickety ramp into the equation. We began by simply riding over the ramp -- our front tires landed before our back tires. But pretty soon I noticed that one of my friends was catching enough air that both of his tires were landing at the same time! Evel Knieval he was! I picked his brain to learn his technique:
"Just go fast and pull up on the handlebars at the last second."
Easy enough. I started back a bit further than before and got up to full speed. I hit the ramp and at the last moment I pulled up on my handlebars for all I was worth. The next thing I knew I was soaring through the air. If I would have had a front basket with an alien in it, I could have been a movie poster! OK, so I wouldn't have medalled at the X Games but I did end up clearing the width of a two car driveway. Unfortunately, having never done this before, I wasn't nearly prepared for the landing force. On the bright side, my ribs didn't cave in when they met the handlebars. Upon being laid out in the grass swail, I realized two things: 1) my friends were rushing over to congratulate me on my brief flight and 2) I couldn't breathe. The wind was knocked out of me and my vision began to tunnel. The next thing I knew I was waking up on the sofa in our family room asking my mom how I got there.
Ft. Lauderdale Suburbs, Summer of 2011: Justin Bieber and "planking" were all the rage.
I was recounting this story with my mom when a question came to mind. So I asked, "Hey, Ma, why didn't you take your unconscious son to the hospital?" The answer was a shrug and, "I dunno." I had to chuckle as I considered how hysterical most mothers, including mine, would be today in the same situation. I mean, an unconscious kid after a bike accident could have dozens of serious issues. I guess sometimes moms just know!
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Miracle Fruit
My 8 year old friends and I were finally comfortable enough riding our bikes that we decided to introduce a rickety ramp into the equation. We began by simply riding over the ramp -- our front tires landed before our back tires. But pretty soon I noticed that one of my friends was catching enough air that both of his tires were landing at the same time! Evel Knieval he was! I picked his brain to learn his technique:
"Just go fast and pull up on the handlebars at the last second."
Easy enough. I started back a bit further than before and got up to full speed. I hit the ramp and at the last moment I pulled up on my handlebars for all I was worth. The next thing I knew I was soaring through the air. If I would have had a front basket with an alien in it, I could have been a movie poster! OK, so I wouldn't have medalled at the X Games but I did end up clearing the width of a two car driveway. Unfortunately, having never done this before, I wasn't nearly prepared for the landing force. On the bright side, my ribs didn't cave in when they met the handlebars. Upon being laid out in the grass swail, I realized two things: 1) my friends were rushing over to congratulate me on my brief flight and 2) I couldn't breathe. The wind was knocked out of me and my vision began to tunnel. The next thing I knew I was waking up on the sofa in our family room asking my mom how I got there.
Ft. Lauderdale Suburbs, Summer of 2011: Justin Bieber and "planking" were all the rage.
I was recounting this story with my mom when a question came to mind. So I asked, "Hey, Ma, why didn't you take your unconscious son to the hospital?" The answer was a shrug and, "I dunno." I had to chuckle as I considered how hysterical most mothers, including mine, would be today in the same situation. I mean, an unconscious kid after a bike accident could have dozens of serious issues. I guess sometimes moms just know!
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Miracle Fruit
Thursday, July 7, 2011
State of Jefferson
I came across two tidbits recently.
This first one involves an area of the country that originally fought to become the 49th state back in 1941. There were some counties in northern California and southern Oregon that became disenchanted with the unkept promises made by their respective states to repair and build access roads to the mineral rich area. Finally, in November 1941, the citizens named their state (Jefferson), picked a capital (Yreka, CA) and even blocked off a section of highway in order to hand out their Proclamation of Independence. On December 4th a governor was elected. A nighttime parade was held and well documented by media of the time. In fact, the newsreels were sent out and were planned to be aired the week of December 8. As you history majors may recall, a significant news event took place on December 7, 1941... the bombing of Pearl Harbor! So ended the State of Jefferson's rebellion as they patriotically took up defense of the country. A small movement still remains though it does not appear to be quite as staunch: Jefferson State.
The second tidbit I find HI-larious. In Maine there is a very high Massachusetts transplant population and the locals find their driving -- among other things -- to be... subpar. So what do Maine-folk durogatorily call these transplants? "Massholes!"
Just Joe
This first one involves an area of the country that originally fought to become the 49th state back in 1941. There were some counties in northern California and southern Oregon that became disenchanted with the unkept promises made by their respective states to repair and build access roads to the mineral rich area. Finally, in November 1941, the citizens named their state (Jefferson), picked a capital (Yreka, CA) and even blocked off a section of highway in order to hand out their Proclamation of Independence. On December 4th a governor was elected. A nighttime parade was held and well documented by media of the time. In fact, the newsreels were sent out and were planned to be aired the week of December 8. As you history majors may recall, a significant news event took place on December 7, 1941... the bombing of Pearl Harbor! So ended the State of Jefferson's rebellion as they patriotically took up defense of the country. A small movement still remains though it does not appear to be quite as staunch: Jefferson State.
The second tidbit I find HI-larious. In Maine there is a very high Massachusetts transplant population and the locals find their driving -- among other things -- to be... subpar. So what do Maine-folk durogatorily call these transplants? "Massholes!"
Just Joe
Sunday, July 3, 2011
What is a Sport?
... or more precisely "what activities qualify as a sport?" It seems like a pretty simple question but I've had many conversations with people who were discussing exactly that. First I'll make a short and incomplete list of sports and non-sports as I see them. Then once some of you are sufficiently aggravated I'll give my reasoning.
Sports: Football, Futbol/Soccer, Hockey, Baseball/Softball, Tennis, Basketball, Boxing, Table Tennis, Water Polo, Auto Racing (begrudgingly), Volleyball, Cycling (non-time trials)
Not Sports: Figure Skating, Track and Field events (except running events where runners are allowed to leave their lanes), Swimming, Diving, Darts, Skydiving, Water Skiing, Gymnastics, Snow Skiing, Surfing, Bungee Jumping, Cycling (time trials) AND... Golf!
So there you have it, an incomplete list of both sports and non-sports. Reasoning time!
I use two simple guidelines in determining a sport. Guideline 1: If judging is the only component to determining a winner, then it's not a sport. Guideline 2: If someone isn't trying to impede whatever you're trying to achieve, it's not a sport. Or put another way, no defense, no sport.
I'd like to make an important distinction here. Just because I don't believe a particular activity is a sport, does NOT mean I think the participants are not athletes. In fact, running fast, jumping high and far, swimming fast, hand eye coordination, foot eye coordination and body control are practically definitions of athleticism in my book. But if you are restricting the athleticism to a comparative event, then you're basically engaging in a "skills challenge"; let's see who does a technically better dive, let's see who runs faster, let's see who can jump further, etc. These might compare and measure athleticism but they are not sports. Gymnastics is a great example of athletes in a non-sport. Is anyone more athletic than a gymnast? Athletically they have it all: speed, strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination. But what they are doing in competition is a skills challenge not a sport. They are being rated on the technique of their discipline and are actually in competition with their own selves to perform the discipline as flawlessly as possible. A panel of judges then decides who was closest to perfect. This is akin to watching batting practice, fielding practice and pitcher warm-ups for both teams before a baseball game and then deciding a winner based on the batters' swings, fielders' form and pitchers' "stuff!" Thus, gymnasts are athletes but gymnastics is not a sport.
Sport vs Skills Challenge examples: Cycling time trials (when cyclists are separately timed over a set distance) and running events that require staying in a lane involve athletes. But after both competitions, times are compared and a winner declared; not a sport. Cycling or running in a pack can involve defense in that your progress can be purposely impeded by another participant; sport. Golf is a funky type obstacle course; not a sport. Combat sports (MMA, boxing, etc.) use judges but only after an allotted time (for fighter safety) in which the fighters themselves can decide the outcome; sport.
One last example to wrap up my Sport vs Skills Challenge argument is the NFL Scouting Combine. Many college football players who are eligible for the NFL Draft are invited to this event so they can be weighed and measured in an attempt to impress an NFL team. They run the 40 yard dash to measure speed. They jump vertically from a standing position to measure vertical leap. They broad jump to measure leg power. They have several change of direction drills designed to measure quickness and body control. All of these are athletic skills. But the scouts are there to try to figure out how an individual will translate those skills onto a field in the sport of football.
There you have it, my take on Sport vs. Non-Sport. I'm expecting to hear from angry golfers but we'll see.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Story Time with Grampa Joe
Sports: Football, Futbol/Soccer, Hockey, Baseball/Softball, Tennis, Basketball, Boxing, Table Tennis, Water Polo, Auto Racing (begrudgingly), Volleyball, Cycling (non-time trials)
Not Sports: Figure Skating, Track and Field events (except running events where runners are allowed to leave their lanes), Swimming, Diving, Darts, Skydiving, Water Skiing, Gymnastics, Snow Skiing, Surfing, Bungee Jumping, Cycling (time trials) AND... Golf!
So there you have it, an incomplete list of both sports and non-sports. Reasoning time!
I use two simple guidelines in determining a sport. Guideline 1: If judging is the only component to determining a winner, then it's not a sport. Guideline 2: If someone isn't trying to impede whatever you're trying to achieve, it's not a sport. Or put another way, no defense, no sport.
I'd like to make an important distinction here. Just because I don't believe a particular activity is a sport, does NOT mean I think the participants are not athletes. In fact, running fast, jumping high and far, swimming fast, hand eye coordination, foot eye coordination and body control are practically definitions of athleticism in my book. But if you are restricting the athleticism to a comparative event, then you're basically engaging in a "skills challenge"; let's see who does a technically better dive, let's see who runs faster, let's see who can jump further, etc. These might compare and measure athleticism but they are not sports. Gymnastics is a great example of athletes in a non-sport. Is anyone more athletic than a gymnast? Athletically they have it all: speed, strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination. But what they are doing in competition is a skills challenge not a sport. They are being rated on the technique of their discipline and are actually in competition with their own selves to perform the discipline as flawlessly as possible. A panel of judges then decides who was closest to perfect. This is akin to watching batting practice, fielding practice and pitcher warm-ups for both teams before a baseball game and then deciding a winner based on the batters' swings, fielders' form and pitchers' "stuff!" Thus, gymnasts are athletes but gymnastics is not a sport.
Sport vs Skills Challenge examples: Cycling time trials (when cyclists are separately timed over a set distance) and running events that require staying in a lane involve athletes. But after both competitions, times are compared and a winner declared; not a sport. Cycling or running in a pack can involve defense in that your progress can be purposely impeded by another participant; sport. Golf is a funky type obstacle course; not a sport. Combat sports (MMA, boxing, etc.) use judges but only after an allotted time (for fighter safety) in which the fighters themselves can decide the outcome; sport.
One last example to wrap up my Sport vs Skills Challenge argument is the NFL Scouting Combine. Many college football players who are eligible for the NFL Draft are invited to this event so they can be weighed and measured in an attempt to impress an NFL team. They run the 40 yard dash to measure speed. They jump vertically from a standing position to measure vertical leap. They broad jump to measure leg power. They have several change of direction drills designed to measure quickness and body control. All of these are athletic skills. But the scouts are there to try to figure out how an individual will translate those skills onto a field in the sport of football.
There you have it, my take on Sport vs. Non-Sport. I'm expecting to hear from angry golfers but we'll see.
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: Story Time with Grampa Joe
Sunday, June 26, 2011
"Through the Wormhole" part 2
Apologies to anyone hoping for my "What is a Sport?" post today. Instead I'm going to write about the "Through the Wormhole" episode I was so excited to see. Overall, I wasn't terribly impressed with the theories I heard, especially with regards to time not existing, although there WERE a few other interesting ideas.
The arguement against time existing came from an equation derived in the 60s, in which Einstein's Theory of Relativity was plugged into a quantum mechanics formula. What happened was the time variables disappeared/canceled out leading to the conclusion that time does not exist. Well, I mentioned in a response comment last week that phyisics of the very big (relativity) is quite different than the physics of the very small (quantum physics), so either one wouldn't expect them to combine mathematically or combining them would lead to the current Holy Grail of theoretical physics, the Theory of Everything! I happen to fall in the former opinion... though I reserve the right to change my mind one day.
The first interesting point was made by a neuroscientist who believes that time is engrained in the brain somehow. He performs an experiment where people are asked to click a computer mouse which causes a colored circle to appear on a computer screen. When the experiment began, the colored circle would appear immediately upon the click of the mouse. Then the timing was changed so the circle would appear 1/10th of a second after the mouse was clicked. Once the subject became accustomed to the delay, the circle would revert back to being simultaneous with the mouse click. After reverting the timing, the subjects would report that the circle was appearing BEFORE they actually clicked the mouse! The neuroscientist related this outcome to people with schizophrenia who he believes have a faulty time keeper in the brain that doesn't allow them to see some cause and effect relationships. The correlation being that a person with schizophrenia thinks effects occur (circle appears) before he or she causes them (clicking the mouse), when in reality he or she does cause the effects.
The second interesting pondering point was that we all live in the past due to the nano and microseconds it takes our brains to process all of the signals and stimuli it receives. Sort of like us on Earth seeing sunlight over 8 and a half minutes after it leaves the sun but on a much, much faster scale.
The third idea I found to be fun was from a physicist/musician. He said we currently accept that time moves linnearly in one direction. But he believes that time, like space, may have more than one dimension! He wasn't able to expound much on that other than to say the extra time dimension(s) is(are) invisible -- just like linnear time.
There you have it. My book report, er, uh, TV report. Be thankful it was the abridged version!
Peace,
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: What is a Sport?
The arguement against time existing came from an equation derived in the 60s, in which Einstein's Theory of Relativity was plugged into a quantum mechanics formula. What happened was the time variables disappeared/canceled out leading to the conclusion that time does not exist. Well, I mentioned in a response comment last week that phyisics of the very big (relativity) is quite different than the physics of the very small (quantum physics), so either one wouldn't expect them to combine mathematically or combining them would lead to the current Holy Grail of theoretical physics, the Theory of Everything! I happen to fall in the former opinion... though I reserve the right to change my mind one day.
The first interesting point was made by a neuroscientist who believes that time is engrained in the brain somehow. He performs an experiment where people are asked to click a computer mouse which causes a colored circle to appear on a computer screen. When the experiment began, the colored circle would appear immediately upon the click of the mouse. Then the timing was changed so the circle would appear 1/10th of a second after the mouse was clicked. Once the subject became accustomed to the delay, the circle would revert back to being simultaneous with the mouse click. After reverting the timing, the subjects would report that the circle was appearing BEFORE they actually clicked the mouse! The neuroscientist related this outcome to people with schizophrenia who he believes have a faulty time keeper in the brain that doesn't allow them to see some cause and effect relationships. The correlation being that a person with schizophrenia thinks effects occur (circle appears) before he or she causes them (clicking the mouse), when in reality he or she does cause the effects.
The second interesting pondering point was that we all live in the past due to the nano and microseconds it takes our brains to process all of the signals and stimuli it receives. Sort of like us on Earth seeing sunlight over 8 and a half minutes after it leaves the sun but on a much, much faster scale.
The third idea I found to be fun was from a physicist/musician. He said we currently accept that time moves linnearly in one direction. But he believes that time, like space, may have more than one dimension! He wasn't able to expound much on that other than to say the extra time dimension(s) is(are) invisible -- just like linnear time.
There you have it. My book report, er, uh, TV report. Be thankful it was the abridged version!
Peace,
Just Joe
NEXT WEEK: What is a Sport?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)