Good Monday morning evening everyone! Today we join the Who Dat Nation in celebrating the New Orleans Saints’ first Super Bowl win. Entering the 2009 season as a resurrected version of a long beleaguered franchise, the Saints quenched the long endearing thirst for a professional championship in the Big Easy. This cannot be understated. Prior to 2006, the Saints were a terrible franchise. Despite playing host to a pair of legends- quarterback Archie Manning and head coach Mike Ditka- New Orleans was one of only five NFL teams to have never played in the Super Bowl. But the days of wearing brown bags of shame ended immediately after Hurricane Katrina blasted the area when the team acted as the manifestation of civil pride. When All-Pro quarterback Drew Brees came to the Bayou as a free agent in 2006 and led the Saints to within one game of a Super Bowl berth, those on Bourbon Street had reason to believe. Three years and a fantastic Super Bowl later, the Saints sit atop the football world as one of the most universally popular champions in any American sport. Congrats to Brees and crew and hopefully my Bears can emulate their success in 2010.
On to your week opening news-
1) Late Saturday night, former Alaska governor Sarah Palin delivered the key note speech for the controversial tea party convention in Nashville. Distilled to its core, Palin’s appearance constituted a 45 minute address with blanket attacks on President Obama followed by a “hard hitting notes free question and answer session.” I will not go into the substance of the former governor’s speech, as she provided no insight which I have not previously examined. Likewise, I have no desire to dissect the very real possibility of a Hubert Humphery/George Wallace-type schism that could fracture the republican party going forward. Rather, the week should open with bit of humor. During the question and answer session- which Palin bragged would be note free- an Associated Press photographer caught the Alaskan referencing handwritten notes on her left hand. Of course there are a number of comedic angles available here. First of all, Ms. Palin lambasted Barack Obama’s “inability to just talk” because of his effective use of the teleprompter, but needed to fall back on the elementary school cheating mechanism of hand notes to make it through a session with her biggest supporters. Secondly, the fact that the former governor felt the need to make notes at all in this situation serves as an indictment on her lack of confidence in public. Had she answered “socialism” then belched after every question, the auditorium would have roared in approval. Finally, the simplicity of her jotted lifeline is definitive proof of the talking points heavy, yet substance free, platform the tea party represents. Hats off to the sure-eyed AP photographer whose picture is truly worth a thousand words.
Fantastic
2) After three weeks of hoopla, the infamous Tim Tebow Super Bowl ad was me with a collective shoulder shrug. The 30 second spot consisted of Pam Tebow talking about how much she loves her son, followed by the 2007 Heisman winner tackling his mother. While emotionally touching, the substance was clearly not what the group sponsoring the commercial or its preemptive critics expected. Thankfully, Doritos more than satisfied our comical appetites with a pair of hilarious slap-stick spots.
3) According to a pair of Minnesota Vikings front office officials, the reigning NFC North Champions want to know whether their 41-year old quarterback will return to the team within two weeks. Good luck with that. Immediately after throwing an interception that effectively sealed the Vikes season, Brett Favre told reporters that he would probably not return next year. Of course, that is the same refrain he provided in 2007 with the Packers and 2008 with the Jets, so many observers are understandably unconvinced. As I said at the beginning of the year, the onus is on Minnesota’s front office to force Favre to take a firm stance. They have a chance to snag either Matt Hasselbeck or Donovan McNabb this summer and must solidify the quarterback position for the next three to five years to avoid wasting the prime of several key defensive players’ careers. This is exactly what happened in Chicago from 2004-2007 and the inability to reach the competitive summit was the result. As a Bears fan, I hope Favre drags this out as long as possible just to set back a franchise for which I have an irrational detestation.
Just because it never gets old
4) Last week new Southern Cal football coach Lane Kiffin bizarrely accepted a commitment from David Sills, a 13-year old quarterback from Deleware. From a coaching standpoint, I just cannot fathom what (or if) Kiffin is thinking. I love watching USC football and Pete Carroll was a great recruiter, but he did not attract kids to Troy by offering scholarships to players whose voices have not yet broken. Furthermore, the collection of variables surrounding such a young athlete are so massive that it is literally impossible to forecast how puberty and five years of competition will change the player. Consider Michael Avery. A Southern California resident, Avery committed to play basketball at the University of Kentucky for alcoholic former head coach Billy Gillispie in 2008 at the age of 12. At the time, Avery was the top rated seventh grader in the nation. One year and more developed competition later, the young man is no longer on the recruiting map and is thankfully not part of the Wildcats’ future plans. I recognize that there are a few “sure things.” John Calipari began recruiting John Wall and Derrick Rose during their respective sophomore years of high school. LeBron James received scholarship papers from a number of schools as a 16 year old. Moreover, Peyton Manning was hosting top flight coaches during his freshman spring practice as a teenager in New Orleans. But in each of these situations, the players involved were seasoned summer league veterans who endured the athletic wars and displayed a modicum of personal maturation. Moreover, each athlete in question was legally able to drive a car and not trying to sneak into PG-13 movies. Honestly I feel bad for David Sills. As one of my cousins said, he is just a kid and kids do stupid things. Unfortunately, his youthful mistake is now played out on ESPN and in the pages of Sporting News.
Good Sunday morning readers! Today we celebrate author Sinclair Lewis’s 125th birthday. A Nobel Prize winner, Lewis is one of the most influential 20th Century American authors who deserved ranks among modern literary giants Hemingway and Dreiser. Now enjoy work that is not as influential, but possibly just as engaging: your Sunday morning links-
2) Yesterday in Baton Rogue, the third ranked Kentucky Wildcats (22-1) pummeled the Louisiana State Tigers 81-55 in perhaps their best performance of the season. When I find an a word in the English language to describe Demarcus Cousins’s dominance, I will let you know.
5) Chicago Bears head coach met his self-imposed Super Bowl Sunday hiring deadline by promoting Rod Marinelli to defensive coordinator after working for a year as the defensive line coach. So we really are the 2007 Detroit Lions, fantastic (note the sarcasm).
6) Today is Super Bowl Sunday- the biggest day of the American sporting calendar. I will go with the Saints in a close one.
Now for your Sunday moment of zen-
Have a good Sunday everyone and enjoy the Super Bowl!
After a few weeks off, the Decade in Review segment is back and hopefully winding to a close. Enjoy installment seven readers!
Definitely worth waking up at 3 AM
40. United States defeats Mexico 3-2 in the 2002 World Cup
Where I was- My parents house packing for vacation
What stands out- After barely qualifying for the knockout stage, the United States roared out of the gates with three quick strikes within the first twenty five minutes of action. Despite a furious comeback in the second half from the Mexican squad, the Americans held on to win their first World Cup tournament game in seven decades.
Personal significance- Throughout my childhood, I eagerly listened as observers claimed my generation would be the one to take the United States to international soccer glory. When the Americans defeated Mexico, there was a reason to believe. This triumph quenched the thirst for soccer victory that began with the 1-0 loss to Brazil in the 1994 Cup.
Collective significance- For the first time, America was on the international soccer scene. Without question, this was the United States’ biggest soccer triumph on record and seemed to bode well for the immediate future.
Things were not so pretty at the end
39. Kentucky falls to Mississippi State 84-82 in the 2007 SEC Tournament
Where I was- My parents’ house with Melissa and my mom
What stands out- In what was a back and forth game in its entirety, embattled Kentucky forward Sheray Thomas scored four consecutive points in the final minute of regulation to give the Cats a 72-70 lead with twenty seconds remaining. After a Mississippi State miss, freshman guard Jodie Meeks went to the free throw line with a chance to ice the game. Meeks made the first shot and as he prepared to take the second, coach Tubby Smith yelled for Sheray Thomas to get back on defense. As the senior forward was standing on the block, the Cats were assessed a lane violation and Meeks was not allowed to take the second shot. Mississippi State guard Jamont Gordon hit a three pointer as time expired and the Cats would fall in overtime.
Personal significance- When the Cats lost, I knew 2007 would be Tubby’s last season in Lexington. The mental error of calling a player off the free throw lane was inexplicable for a coach who had the reputation as one of the game’s best minds. Although Kentucky would win one NCAA tournament game that year, this game cemented Smith’s fate.
Collective significance- Many national writers came to the same conclusion as I did after this game. Because of the specific series of events that resulted in the loss, it seemed that Tubby was on his way out. More importantly, had the Cats held on, they would have enjoyed an easier NCAA tournament schedule, presenting the possibility of an extended run. As it happened, the Cats had to face top-seeded Kansas in the second round and Tubby’s fate was sealed.
38. Kentucky defeats Clemson 28-20 in the 2006 Music City Bowl
Where I was- My parents’ house for Christmas
What stands out- Kentucky is not a football school, not by a long shot. But on the heels of a stunning upset of Georgia, the 2006 Wildcat football team found themselves in postseason play for the first time in seven years. Unfortunately, the young Kentucky team was staring down a date with seventeenth ranked Clemson. Needing a spark early, UK head coach Rich Brooks turned the offense loose- leading to a 65 yard touchdown pass from Andre Woodson and a rushing touchdown by linebacker (turned temporary fullback) Micah Johnson. The Cats took a 21-7 edge into the locker room at the half and would cruise to a 28-20 victory.
Personal significance- The 2006 Music City Bowl was the first Kentucky bowl victory of my life. I watched as the 1993 Cats crumbled in the Peach Bowl and the 1998 team lost on New Year’s Day. So it was with incredible satisfaction that I viewed the first of what would be a trifecta of postseason triumphs.
Collective significance- With the plethora of postseason college football games, this was just a blip on the radar. While it did temporarily give Kentucky football a moment in the national spotlight, the game’s significance was more of a bit of foreshadowing for the historic 2007 campaign.
37. Detroit Pistons defeat the Orlando Magic 91-86 in the Game Five of the 2008 Eastern Conference Semifinals
Where I was- The Palace at Auburn Hills with Melissa and her family
What stands out- After a series of close games, the Detroit Pistons entered Game Five of the 2008 Eastern Semis with a chance to eliminate the Orlando Magic and superhuman center Dwight Howard. Playing without All-Star point guard Chauncey Billups, the Pistons fought through foul trouble from Rasheed Wallace and a bad shooting night from Tayshaun Prince to lead by one late. In the waning seconds, Orlando forward Hedo Turkoglu drove the lane only to be denied by Tayshaun Prince. Detroit picked up the blocked shot and sealed the game at the free throw line.
Personal significance- I had attended clinching playoff games before, but this was the first one I was fortunate enough to enjoy where the home team was the one celebrating. Watching the pure joy (or relief) from some of the Pistons players was beyond description. On a side note, I was incredibly disappointed in Dwight Howard’s performance (8 points) after a great deal of excitement coming in.
Collective significance- As it would happen, this was the last playoff series the Pistons would win in at least three years. In addition, the victory set up a showdown between the team of the past (the Pistons) and the next big club (Boston Celtics). Boston would embarrass the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals and Detroit has yet to recover.
36. Kentucky defeats Cincinnati 69-60 in the 2005 NCAA Tournament
Where I was- The RCA dome in the Cincinnati student section
What stands out- Given the two schools’ geographic proximity, Kentucky and Cincinnati developed a sort of unspoken basketball rivalry. As the teams had not played in fourteen years, the 2005 NCAA tournament second round was one of the most anticipated in years. Bearcats fans claimed they would show those arrogant UK fans that the Cats really were scared to play them. UC forward Eric Hicks even guaranteed a win. After a 12-2 Kentucky run to start the game, the Bearcats clawed back to take a 39-35 halftime lead. Then Randolph Morris took over. The freshman Kentucky center scored 20 points in the second half and single-handedly eliminated All-American forward Jason Maxiell from the Cincinnati attack to spark one of the most memorable Kentucky tournament wins in recent memory.
Personal significance- As a UC student and UK fan, I really wanted Kentucky to win this game. I was harassed, had beer poured on me, and endured taunts throughout the first half and most of the second. However, chanting “Go Big Blue” as the black and red army headed for the exits was a thing of beauty.
Collective significance- The Kentucky-Cincinnati game remains the highest rated non-Final Four tournament game in television history. The intensity the Cats displayed throughout led many commentators to assume Tubby Smith’s team would cruise to the Final Four. While they did not, the Kentucky win did eliminate Cincinnati from the tournament and spark a six year drought for the once proud Bearcats basketball program.
35. Texas defeats USC 41-38 in the 2006 Rose Bowl
Where I was- My Cincinnati apartment on Clifton Ave.
What stands out- The 2006 Rose Bowl was the greatest football game ever played. The undefeated and top-ranked USC Trojans entered the game as heavy favorites over Vince Young and the Texas Longhorns. Through three quarters, the experts looked to be correct. Trailing 38-24 with twelve minutes remaining, the Heisman Trophy runner-up turned in one of the performances for the ages. Facing a fourth down and long with less than a minute remaining, Young scrambled eleven yards to score the go ahead touchdown. When the Trojans were unable to get into field goal range, Texas locked up their first national title in two decades.
Personal significance- As a USC fan, this one hurt. Up two scores in the final quarter, I could taste a third consecutive championship. Four years later, the loss still stings but I can finally appreciate the greatness of Young’s performance.
Collective significance- Along with the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, this game is perhaps the most deserving of the title “greatest of all time.” In 100 years, that superlative will likely remain.
34. Chicago Bears defeat the New Orleans Saints 39-14 in the 2007 NFC Championship
Where I was- My parent’s house with a group of Bears fans
What stands out- Despite serious issues at the quarterback position and a defense that was fading, the Chicago Bears stood sixty minutes of football away from the second Super Bowl in franchise history. The Monsters of Midway recovered from a slow start and took a 17-7 lead into the frigid Soldier Field locker room at the half. Then came “the finger point.” On the second play from scrimmage in the second half, rookie Reggie Bush broke free for a 73-yard touchdown catch and taunted future Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher on the way into the endzone. After a Bears punt, the Saints were pinned deep in their own territory and an angry Urlacher forced a safety. Inspired by the defensive captain, the Monsters of Midway outscored New Orleans 22-0 over the final 25 minutes and won their second NFC championship.
Personal significance- For the first time I could remember, I would have a rooting interest in the Super Bowl. I was alive for the Super Bow Shuffle but too young to be cognizant of the significance. But this was different. I did a victory lap of the house and had to go for a five mile run to tone down my excitement. I loved the Bears for my entire life and finally they would play on football’s biggest stage.
Collective significance- With so many sub-plots, it is hard to narrow it to a single paragraph. The Bears eliminated the darling of the NFL- a New Orleans Saints team that justifiably energized the hurricane ravaged Big Easy. Additionally, the victory set up a duel between the league’s best quarterback and the best defense. Three years later, the enduring story for Bears fans is that this was the last significant victory for the franchise now facing serious questions of leadership.
33. Kentucky defeats Florida in basketball 71-70 in 2001
Where I was- Section 231 of Rupp Arena in Lexington
What stands out- After a difficult non-conference schedule, the young 2001 Kentucky Wildcats were quickly becoming one of the nation’s best teams and faced a tough test against the seventh-ranked Florida Gators. Despite a eight point lead at the half, the Cats found themselves trailing by five with only 90 seconds remaining. Sparked by a Keith Bogans three pointer and Marvin Stone dunk, Kentucky cut the deficit to 70-69 with ten seconds remaining. In bounding the ball to SEC Player of the Year Tayshaun Prince, the Cats watched as the future NBA first round pick drained a ten foot baby hook with only seconds remaining to seal the win.
Personal significance- I have attended nearly 200 basketball games in my lifetime and this remains one of only two decided by a buzzer beater. More importantly, the winning shot came off the hand of the man who was my favorite Kentucky player for nearly a decade. All in all, it was an incredible night.
Collective significance- The ESPN instant classic played a huge role in laying the groundwork for what developed into one of college basketball’s premier rivalries. Additionally, Prince’s shot was perhaps the signature moment of the 2001 SEC basketball season and played a substantial role in sending the SEC Player of the Year hardware to Lexington for the first time since 1997.
Wish the game had ended here
32. Cubs lose 7-2 to the Dodgers in Game 1 of the 2008 NLDS
Where I was- Melissa and my apartment in South Lexington
What stands out- All season, Cubs fans talked about how the World Series centennial would serve as some mystical catalyst to send the North Siders to the promise land. Lou Piniella’s club boasted the best record in baseball and faced a Dodgers team they handled 6-1 in the seven game season series. The cold autumn night began as planned, with Mark DeRosa sending a two-run shot into the right field seats and the Cubs cruised into the fifth inning with a 2-0 lead. Then the wheels fell off. After mowing down the first two Dodger hitters, Cubs starter Ryan Dempster surrendered a mammoth solo home run to Manny Ramirez. Unable to shake the long ball, Dempster walked three consecutive hitters and when he failed to throw a third strike in three attempts to Matt Kemp, the Cub starter delivered a meatball which was promptly deposited on Waveland Avenue. Los Angeles would tack on an additional pair of runs and the rowdy Wrigley crowd fell deathly silent.
Personal significance- Although it was only Game 1, the five run fifth inning is the exact point where I gave up on the 2008 season. I know that sounds fickle and a tad emotionally insecure, but I am a Cubs fan and it does not take much for me to doubt my team.
Collective significance- The stunning turn of events at Wrigley- where the Cubs were nearly invincible during the regular season- sparked a new round of curse claims. As glowing as the national media spoke of the Cubs chances in the days before the postseason began, they were equally dismal the morning after. Once again, the Chicago Cubs would go home losers and the story would run on a loop because we North Siders are unable to look away.
Only picture I could find from the game
31. Nashville Predators defeat the Detroit Red Wings 4-2 in 2008
Where I was- The Sommet Center in Nashville with Melissa
What stands out- In a generic regular season clash of Central Division rivals, the Detroit Red Wings traveled to the Music City to face a Preds team pushing to make the postseason. Before a rocking Sommet Center crowd, the Predators roared out to an early 3-0 lead they would never relinquish in their first (and only) regular season triumph over the eventual Stanley Cup champions.
Personal significance- Despite growing up as a Blackhawks fan, I did not attend my first hockey game until just after my 24th birthday. Even more remarkable, that game featured two of my favorite club’s rivals- credit to my Red Wings fan fiancée. After hearing many people say hockey was a completely different sport live than on television, I could not wait to see how the absence of a television screen would enhance the experience. Between the incredible atmosphere, fast paced game, and exciting play it was definitely a fitting introduction to live NHL hockey.
Collective significance- Many regular season games have literally no significance aside from the tally in the win/loss column. This one was different. To that point in the season, the Wings upended the Preds four consecutive times- all in convincing fashion. The confidence Nashville gained from this win carried over to the postseason series- where the Predators took the Wings to six games and were a few lucky bounces away from eliminating the eventual champs.
Hope you enjoyed. Check back for the eighth installment in the next few days!
Good Saturday morning everyone! On this day in 1935, the timeless Parker Brothers property trading game Monopoly hit store shelves for the first time. Over the past 75 years, countless Americans have enjoyed the playful frustration that is a trip from Mediterranean Ave. to Boardwalk. So whether you are headed to jail or collecting $200 for passing Go, make sure to enjoy these links on the way-
5) On the eve of football’s biggest night, the NFLPA union chief told reporters that on a scale of one-to-ten, the chances of a lockout in 2011 are a 14. Just to remind NFL owners, baseball once thought they were strike proof as well.
Good Friday morning everyone! On this day in 1870 the first world’s motion picture screening took place in Philadelphia. The Horse in Motion- a series of photographs captured on film reel- was earth-shattering on many levels, not the least of which was the affirmative establishment of a new entertainment media. Over the next decade, silent commercial films sporadically debuted, but it was not until World War I that Hollywood emerged as the first mass production center of major motion pictures. With stars like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin leading the way, silent films dominated the American social calendar until the development of sound synthesized to picture. The next logical step in motion picture technology was the addition of color- famously in the 1937 film Wizard of Oz. In the eight subsequent decades, viewing a film has evolved from a substantive social event to a part of American culture we take for granted. That said, a medium that brought us cinematic treasures like The Godfather and Gone with the Wind is definitely worth celebrating.
On to your Friday news fix-
1) For the better part of nine months, Americans have endured perpetual claims that Congressional Democrats are the reason the nation has suffered from a legislative gridlock and that the left is delaying action because of personal pet projects. It turns out those cries were just another example of republicans distorting reality to meet their preconceived agenda. Following an eight month delay, a series of Obama nominees were confirmed by a 96-0 vote after Richard Shelby (R-AL) allowed the business to leave his committee. Why, you may ask, would one individual hold such important decisions ransom for so long? Apparently Senator Shelby refused to allow the nominations to reach a vote until a pair of billion dollar earmarks were fast tracked through the Senate. So to summarize, the party that plans to run 2010 campaigns bashing special interest spending and governmental gridlock is actually headed by an individual who personifies both legislative wrongs. Glad to see hypocrisy is alive and well in the gop.
This man looks like Batman's nemesis Two-Face
2) During the Wednesday episode of ESPN’s Sportsnation, host Colin Cowherd devoted the two minute “Three Jeers” segment to mocking the man Kentucky basketball fans lovingly refer to as Dancing Guy. Cowherd, a polarizing nationally syndicated sports radio host, never exactly endeared himself to UK fans or for that matter anyone outside the Los Angeles media market. For example, immediately following John Calipari’s introduction in Lexington Cowherd devoted a week of his show to lambasting unfounded accusations against the five-time National Coach of the Year- conveniently ignoring similar accusations against his man-crush and blog favorite Pete Carroll. The sarcastic radio host referred to Kentucky fans as “needing to be institutionalized” and “utterly irrational.” However, it was Cowherd who came across as ignorantly insensitive two days ago when mocking Dancing Guy. For those who have not attended a game at Rupp Arena in the past few years, you have missed quite a spectacle. During a second half media timeout, Darren Moscoe- a long time season ticket holder- dances between the aisles in Rupp’s lower arena. Admittedly seeing a middle aged man excitedly dance in public may seem strange, but that ignores Moscoe’s troubled past. You see, lifelong Kentucky fan Darren nearly died three times as a child from aggressive brain cancer and suffers from a series of developmental disabilities. Better stated, his dancing is the expression of his excitement to attend games at Rupp Arena. Some could argue that Cowherd had not reason to know this, but that glosses over the fact that each of ESPN’s four major college basketball writers authored a profile on Moscoe during the past calendar year. I would hope that the World Wide Leader would issue an apology, but after a year of shoddy journalism I will temper those expectations.
3) With baseball’s Opening Day fast approaching, the Chicago Cubs delivered a surprising body blow to fans nationally when they announced the Cubs opener against the Atlanta Braves would be limited to local television coverage. Of course, the 3 PM CST first pitch likely indicates that ESPN will broadcast the game nationally as part of their massive Opening Day coverage. However, after a long and moderately painful offseason there is nothing I would prefer more than enjoying the first Cubs game of the year with Len Kasper and Bob Brenly at the microphone; rather than enduring three hours of Joe Morgan’s “century without a title” jokes. On the wide spectrum of issues the 2010 Chicago Cubs may have, television scheduling is probably not high on the list. But until I have an actual manifestation of the team’s lackluster performance, I will limit my criticism to existing issues.
4) Yesterday, former San Diego Chargers All-Pro running back LaDainian Tomlinson told reporters that he feels his time on the west coast is over and that he desperately needs a change of scenery. Although this may be a bit of wishful thinking, I would love it if LT came to Chicago. With the addition of offensive coordinator Mike Martz, the Bears desperately need a full compliment of running backs are a threat in the passing game. While Matt Forte fits this mold, his skill set is probably best suited as a complimentary back rather than an every down rusher. Candidly, I am not sure that LT is capable of returning to his peak performance level but I am positive that he can contribute more to the 2010 Bears than Khalil Bell or the other Adrian Peterson.
Good Thursday morning evening readers! On this day in 1964, the 24th Amendment to the United States Constitution completed state ratification. Distilled to its core, the two section text prohibits federal or state law from conditioning the right to vote on the ability to pay a tax. Understandably, the passage played a substantial role in the lengthy civil rights movement as poll taxes were common place in the Reconstruction south as a measure to prevent African-Americans from voting. The amendment overturned the 1937 Supreme Court case Breedlove v. Suttles, which ruled all such taxes were constitutional. The Court overturned that case when it interpreted the new amendment in 1966. To this day, eight states have yet to ratify the constitutional addition- including Mississippi, which expressly rejected it. That said, the 24th amendment stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the 5th, 13th, 14th, and 15th in ensuring all Americans are equal in the eyes of the government.
Now for your Thursday news fix-
1) In response to the public uproar over Tim Tebow’s anti-abortion Super Bowl ad, Planned Parenthood released a one minute video championing the value of choice. Surrounded by the angry rhetoric on both sides of the debate, the mildly controversial organization’s thoughtful and engaging response was provided a breath of fresh air. Both camps enjoy a modicum of valid points to support their various positions, however the self-worship displayed by the pro-life contingent and the angry lambasting from the pro-choice crowd do nothing to endear a potentially well-reasoned debate. I am pro-choice; many of my readers know this. However, I respect the Heisman Trophy winner’s CHOICE to oppose abortion. Unfortunately, CBS’s election to run what amounts to a political advertisement because it features a football player sparked the already unstable tinder box that is the American abortion debate.
2) Like their basketball counterparts, the first place Chicago Blackhawks returned home with a thud last night- falling 3-2 to the St. Louis Blues. This loss followed the script of a familiar tale. The Hawks vastly outshot the Blues- creating chances from both the break and from sets within the offensive zone. Patrick Kane gave Chicago an early 1-0 lead on a nice deflection from Troy Brouwer, but that was all the offense Coach Q’s team would produce for the better part of 35 minutes. Falling behind 3-1, Marian Hossa found the back of the net during a St. Louis power play to cut the lead to one, which was as close as the Hawks would get. Hopefully this weekend provides relief from the current two game slide and an uptick in defensive play.
Things were downhill from here
3) The five game winning streak seems like forever ago for the suddenly struggling Chicago Bulls. Last night in Philadelphia, the Bulls lost to the Sixers 106-103 in overtime. Although this was the team’s first loss of the year in the extra session, the game underscored some of the very real issues Vinny Del Negro’s club faces heading into the All-Star break. Once again, Derrick Rose was phenomenal- scoring 30 points to go along with 9 assists. Although the All-Star guard missed a jumper that would have won the game in regulation, his play was the only reason the Bulls even had a shot at the end. The problem is that after Rose, the Bulls do not have much at the moment. Luol Deng added 17 points, but was unable to contain Andre Iguodala on defense. Joakim Noah is visibly hobbled- a deathblow to a player whose ability is exclusively derived from high energy. Moreover, the power forward spot continued to act as a vacuum with Miller/Gibson/Thomas essentially wearing clown shoes. Obviously this mild cold spell may be subject to a quick remedy- via trade or improved health. However, I fail to see how the current Bulls team can realistically challenge any top four Eastern Conference team in a seven game playoff series.
Your 2010 Chicago Bulls- Derrick Rose and.....
4) Speaking of potential trades, multiple NBA sources claim that the Bulls are close to sending Kirk Hinrich and Tyrus Thomas to the Boston Celtics for All-Star guard Ray Allen and bench player Eddie House. Although losing Allen would be a blow to the Celtics’ offense, their thin front line and apparent lockerroom issues may necessitate the move. Conversely, this trade would greatly benefit the Bulls who need a veteran running mate for Derrick Rose and have sufficient passable front court depth (if healthy) to at least challenge anyone in the Eastern Conference, Orlando notwithstanding. I hope this trade is executed. It gives the Bulls a realistic shot to pull off a first round upset, ensures they will have maximum salary cap space for the 2010 free agency spending spree, and lays the groundwork for bringing Allen back to Chicago at a reduced price. I guess we will know within two weeks whether management remotely cares about winning.
Good Wednesday morning evening readers! On this day 220 years ago, Chief Justice John Jay called to order the first United States Supreme Court session. Jay was born in New York City while the underpinnings of the American Revolution were in their infancy. After studying law at King’s College in Manhattan, Jay quickly escalated to a level of social prominence enjoyed by few during the colonial period. Elected to the First Continental Congress at the age of 29, the future Supreme Court justice immediately gained the respect of his substantially more mature peers for his stances as a reasonable moderate. At the conclusion of the Revolution, the shrewd New Yorker spearheaded the American diplomacy contingent that negotiated the Treaty of Paris with Great Britain. As a reward for Jay’s fantastic contribution to obtaining American independence, President Washington appointed the former diplomat to charge the first United States Supreme Court. During his six year tenure on the nation’s highest court, Jay was a part of only a few critical rulings as the Court enjoyed a relatively open docket. Among the Jay Court’s key rulings were Chisolm v. Georgia (holding that states were subject to Supreme Court jurisdiction, later overruled by the Eleventh Amendment) and Georgia v. Brailsford (upholding the constitutional validity of jury nullification). As a result of his personal dissatisfaction with life as a jurist, Jay left the Court in 1795 when he successfully ran for governor of New York. When he died in 1829, John Jay was one of the Empire State’s most famous citizens and is to this day memorialized by the Criminal Justice school in Manhattan bearing his name.
Impressive as the man himself
On to your midweek news fix-
1) Yesterday, Americans celebrated recognized Groundhog Day- the annual observance of winter’s inevitable continuance inexplicably derived from a rodent’s ability to identify his shadow. The symbol of this bizarre holiday, Punxsutawney Phil, saw his shadow which supposedly indicates another six weeks of winter. Notwithstanding the ridiculous nature of this tradition, I sincerely hope we do not endure another month and a half of freezing temperatures and quasi-snow. After two months of sub-40 degree weather and a three week period where the wind chill failed to break zero, I can honestly say I have never been more emotionally prepared for spring. Hopefully, furry Phil was wrong and we can fondly look forward to moderate temperatures and a snow free few weeks (side note- the Friday local forecast calls for five inches of snow, crap).
2) Last night in Lexington, the third-ranked Kentucky Wildcats (21-1) downed the 25th-ranked Ole Miss Rebels 85-75 in an effort that typified their season thus far. Freshman center Demarcus Cousins scored 18 points and pulled down 13 rebounds for his sixth consecutive double-double, the longest such streak in nearly four decades. Perhaps more importantly, future NBA Draft top pick John Wall had his most complete game in two weeks- posting 17 points, 7 assists, and a series of highlight reel dunks. In addition to the superb freshman, the Cats enjoyed solid efforts from Patrick Patterson (12 points), Darnell Dodson (14 points), and Eric Bledsoe (8 points and 8 assists). Although much of the evening’s focus was on Wall’s ability to rebound from a frustrating weekend, the collective effort on display serves as the basis for this team’s potential success in March.
3) Coming home from a productive road trip, the Chicago Bulls ended their five game winning streak with a 90-82 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. This game had all of the makings of a trap game with implications hopefully limited to the one night. After shooting the ball very well on the road, the entire team suffered from a cold shooting night, Luol Deng’s 16 point first quarter notwithstanding. In his first home game as an NBA All-Star, Derrick Rose put in 16 points on a series of drives to the basket, but fell victim to the team’s contagious bad shooting. Aside from Rose and Deng’s first ten minutes, there was little positive to draw from the night. Joakim Noah could not stop either Marcus Camby or Chris Kaman in the post and the power forward trio of Taj Gibson, Tyrus Thomas, and Brad Miller were abysmal. If this game is the catalyst for a Amare Stoudamire trade, then so be it, but hopefully the negative aspects of the evening are limited to the one home game I happened to attend.
One of the few highlights of the night
4) According to ESPN, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament will expand to 96 teams in 2011- a marked increase from the current 65 program format. The practical effect of this change would be the additional round of games for all but the top 32 teams (the first 8 seeds of each region) and an increased number of large conference teams in the Big Dance. For fringe teams like Florida, Cincinnati, and surprisingly North Carolina, the additional round would allow them a chance to play in the biggest American sporting event of the year. Obviously, the schools and CBS view that as a substantial positive. That said, the derivative drawback of an influx of big conference teams is the increased likelihood that these bigger schools will eliminate the mid-major teams that provide the Cinderella excitement that makes March so special. Of course, none of this will have a remote effect on the overall national championship picture, as only two teams in NCAA history have reached the Final Four when seeded ninth or lower.
Of course, George Mason did beat four BCS teams, so an additional round wouldn't matter
Good Tuesday morning readers! On this day 70 years ago, famed jazz singer Frank Sinatra made his stage debut in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born in depression stricken Hoboken, New Jersey, Frankie never graduated high school but focused his entire emotional energy on singing. Despite a slow start to his career in the 1930s, Sinatra rose to the top of the music world for nearly a decade and a half- winning Grammys, billboard rankings, and Academy Awards. Always the revolutionary thinker, Sinatra effectively utilized the new media of film to further boost his popularity, with features including the original Ocean’s 11. Although the popular music culture shifted away from big band in the 1960s, Frank remained incredibly popular until his death in 1997. A true music lover, Sinatra recorded new work and remastered classics until years before he left us. Over a decade after his death, Frank Sinatra still lays claim to one of the most pronounced musical legacies in history. Like the Beatles, Michael Jackson, and Elvis Presley, even if you did not know Frank’s it was music you could still recognize one of his hits.
On to your Tuesday news fix-
1) Yesterday, retiring U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd (D-CT), announced he would block President Obama’s proposals to downsize the large banks that spawned the 2008 financial crisis. Obviously, that statement frustrates many Americans as the “too big to fail” dogma that Congress forcefed the public was supposed to have ended after the bank bailout and because Dodd is going against his own party to push a personal agenda. To be clear, I am not saying that Chris Dodd has some sadist desire to financially handcuff the American people. Rather, my point is that there is a direct correlation between substantial Wall Street political donations and Dodd’s logically bankrupt rhetoric. When he briefly ran for President in 2007, Dodd described himself as a true American leader. Unfortunately for the Senator, leadership is placing the collective needs of your people above selfish personal desires. Thankfully, Dodd will leave the Senate at the end of the year and we can look forward to a more productive 2011 session.
I LIKE BANKS!!!!!!
2) After a month of searching, the Chicago Bears hired Mike Martz- the man who many thought would be the new offensive coordinator in the first place. Candidly, I am not sure what to make of this hire. Initially, I lambasted the idea- citing Martz’s harsh criticism of quarterback Jay Cutler during the season and Cutler’s detest with the former Rams head coach. However, the 2009 All-Pro passer apparently pushed the hiring which serves as a pretty ringing endorsement. Stylistically speaking, Martz is a huge upgrade over Ron Turner. During his days in St. Louis, Martz’s offenses were among the league’s best- going to a pair of Super Bowls and winning one. The pass happy scheme will greatly benefit Cutler as long as he recognizes that he will need to throw the ball away from time to time. If Jay can master that concept, the five and seven step drop play calls will allow him to stretch the field and find open deep targets as he did on his last play at Soldier Field.
3) In a substantially less publicized Windy City signing, the Chicago Cubs signed former All-Star third baseman Kevin Millar to a minor league contract. This comes on the heels of adding another former All-Star, Chad Tracy, to the mix at the hot corner. Clearly, general manager Jim Hendry does not expect either player to provide starting quality play as the Cubs have Aramis Ramirez to hold down the fort at third. However, with Jake Fox gone the North Siders do need a solid backup in case Aramis needs some time off. Assuming this is basically an audition, look for the player who turns in the best spring training performance to serve as a Jim Edmonds-type role player for the 2010 campaign.
Winning experience!
4) In an effort to cure the pre-Super Bowl football doldrums, Sports Illustrated examined the consequences of either Saints quarterback Drew Brees or Colts ad machine passer Peyton Manning going down with an injury on Sunday. Although that is an admittedly interesting thesis, perhaps the more intriguing analysis was the subsequent discussion of the ten worst quarterback performances in the Super Bowl. Of course, I was happy to see Tony Eason’s 0-6 passing game against the Bears in Super Bowl XX come in as the second most embarrassing. That said, I could not figure out why Rex Grossman’s Super Bowl XLI disaster did not even warrant top ten consideration. Let us not forget, the Sex Cannon threw two interceptions and had three fumbles in the 29-17 loss to Indianapolis and would have been the MVP of the game if that award could signify an opponent’s ineptitude. So while Rexy did throw a touchdown pass in the game- something nine of the worst ten quarterbacks did not- he was the sole reason the Bears lost and I am so glad he is no longer our quarterback.
Good Tuesday morning evening everyone! Today happy second birthday wishes go out to my dog Lexi. I know many people think celebrating a canine anniversary is absurd, however I love that puppy more than almost anything and enjoyed today with that in mind. Two years ago, Melissa and I got Lexi after a friend’s parent found five beagle-jack russell mix puppies in a box near an overflowing river. Although raising a puppy during the final three semesters of law school presented obvious difficulties, I have no regrets. Having a dog is without question one of the most rewarding opportunities imaginable. At times it has been understandably frustrating and I’ve wanted to pull my hair out, but despite those temporary difficulties the last two years have been the happiest of my life.
What a goof
Now for your Monday news-
1) Over the weekend a group of American Baptist missionaries attempted to smuggle a group of children out of earthquake torn Haiti in an effort to bring them to the United States. I completely understand the charitable desire to evacuate the most innocent part of the Haitian population to more stable environment, but doing so for profit- as it appears these smugglers were- is despicable. Not only does that kind of conduct manifest a complete emotional disregard for the Haitian people. Of course these children would be better off in American adoptive homes, however that is not the point. Raiding a destroyed third world country for the purpose of personal profit is a disgrace and directly undermines the message of Christian goodwill these so called missionaries went to Haiti to spread. This is in no way an indictment on missionaries programs in general or the American presence in Haiti, but the behavior over the weekend is surely a testament to the underlying greed our society displays.
Incredibly sad
2) After the then top-ranked Kentucky Wildcats (20-1) upended Vanderbilt on Saturday, star point guard John Wall raised some eyebrows when he said that he was frustrated with his recent play and that he tries not to listen to Coach Calipari when he says Wall played poorly. ESPN ran with this quote, spawning a day of pundits questioning Wall’s dedication and the team chemistry in Lexington. Not once did a single commentator pause to consider that the statement they dissected came from a teenager perpetually in the national spotlight made in an off-the-cuff manner. Had these factors played into the 24 hour news analysis, perhaps someone would have noted- as John Wall and Coach Cal did later- that the freshman phenom was upset with his own play and was merely trying to say that he tries not to let criticism bother him. Now can get back to basketball?
3) For the first time in football history, the NFL held the annual Pro Bowl the week before the Super Bowl. During the 41-34 AFC victory, the painful talent differential between the league’s elite teams and the Bears was abundantly clear. Despite the fact that a series of top players and Super Bowl participants sat out, there were no meaningful contributions from the Monsters of Midway on offense or defense. True, Johnny Knox returned a quartet of kicks for 103 yards; but as we saw this season, a franchise cannot win divisions on special teams alone. As free agency and the draft loom, hopefully general manager Jerry Angelo recognizes these deficiencies to ensure we do not repeat the pitfalls from the last three seasons in 2010.
This kid is good
4) Early yesterday morning, Swiss tennis star Roger Federer won the Australian Open- his 16th Major triumph. Admittedly, I am not an avid tennis fan. In fact, aside from scoring and the basic terminology I am a novice. That said, it is impossible to to understate the sheer dominance Federer embodied over the past five years. Notwithstanding his defeat in an epic French Open final to Spaniard Raphael Nadal a few years ago, the Swissman is a close to a sure thing as there is in any sport in the world. In an era of incredible athletic parity, only Michael Schumacher’s years at Ferrari in Formula One and the New York Yankees three consecutive World Series titles in the late 1990s compare in magnitude. Yes, other multiple champions have come and gone during that time, but none that had the ability to deliver a defining blow to an opponent prior to the match even taking place. Congrats to Federer, a living legend.
The only player to have his number universally retired
Good Sunday morning readers! Today we celebrate Jackie Robinson’s 91st birthday. The former Brooklyn Dodgers infielder needs no introduction; he broke baseball’s color barrier despite incredible racial tensions around the league and went on to become on the most productive players of the 1940s and 1950s. Without his incredible fortitude, baseball would not enjoy many of the stars of subsequent generations who now hold a special place in the game’s storied history. Although they are not as groundbreaking as today’s subject, enjoy your Sunday morning links-
1) The top-ranked Kentucky Wildcats (20-1) returned to their winning ways yesterday, dropping 23rd-ranked Vanderbilt 85-72 in Lexington. Another set of solid performances from John Wall and Demarcus Cousins.
2) In a anti-climactic conclusion to their eight game roadtrip, the first place Chicago Blackhawks fell 4-2 to the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh. Hard to complain about a loss when you find a way to pummel the opposing goalie with 41 shots.
5) President Obama was on hand yesterday to see the 11th-ranked Georgetown Hoyas embarrass the seventh-ranked Duke Blue Devils at the Verizon Center in Washinton. In the logically bankrupt world of NCAA basketball polls, Duke will now fall below a Gonzaga team they beat by nearly 40 four weeks ago- says a lot coming from the biggest Duke antagonist you will find.
6) In another instance of a sport’s governing body overstepping its bounds, the NFL claimed this week that it holds a trademark on the New Orleans Saints’ cheer “Who Dat.” I guess I better watch out when buying a t-shirt with “Bear Down” on the chest.
Now for a royal version of your Sunday moment of zen-
