The Young Guns of the NFL

Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers

The NFL has nine new coaches this year. We all saw most of this coming....but, what is surprising is the attempt by NFL owners to bring in new faces...those who have not been head coaches...those virtually in obscurity in their DC positions. Tomlin was a DB coach at Tampa and then chosen as a DC by Brad Childress in Minnesota. He had players older than he.

Now, I have said for years that the NFL recycles old coaches like beer cans...but no more.

Here are some of the fresh faces around the league and what I think of them of course.

We might as well start with the best. The only thing that I find wrong with Tomlin is he is a Pittsburgh Steeler....I'm just not a fan of the team.

But, you gotta give it to Tomlin. Two years in his new position and a playoff appearance and a Super Bowl Championship.

I remember when the Rooney's were interviewing Tomlin...I initially didn't remember him...and vaguely remember him on the Gruden staff that won the Super Bowl.

The message boards were tearing Tomlin up..."no one is going to hire this guy. The Rooneys just have to interview a black candidate. Well, suddenly Tomlin got a second interview and Rooney himself said he was, "just impressed." The fit seemed too good....the rest is history.

But, what maybe lost here is this coaches' demeanor...his quiet swagger....his obvious confidence.

I love to hear him speak...I love his outlook on life. Without a doubt he is my favorite Coach in the NFL and my favorite newcomer even though it happened two years ago.

John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens

John Harbaugh was a virtual unknown too...a coach of the DBs and special teams. An assistant originally hired by Ray Rhodes with the Philadelphia Eagles and then retained by Andy Reid. But, again the theme here is not even a coordinator...but a new face with fresh ideas hopefully. I didn't think much of the move except I knew Brian Billick wasn't long for the position. But, you have to give Harbaugh credit...in his first year he takes them to the AFC Championship Game with a rookie QB. You have to say this was a very good move by the powers that be with the Ravens

Reheem Morris, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

I am not sure about Coach Morris...in a matter of weeks he goes from getting promoted to DC to then interviewing and getting the head coaching job. I can't knock him for that though. Everyone should sieze their oppotunities. He is the youngest coach in the NFL now. So far though I haven't been terribly impressed. I want to seed what the season does for him. Does he emerge as a leader? He has named his starting QB in Leftwich...a reject of their northern counterparts the Jacksonville jaguars.

Josh McDaniels, Denver Broncos

So far McDaniels seems as arrogant as his former boss. He is an example fast track promotions through the NFL and facing nothing that has humbled him yet. I think it was bad move to let egos get in the way and get rid of the franschise QB...but then I think it was a bad move to entertain conversation to get Matt Cassel. All of this and I think the Broncos are in for a long season...and I think McDaniels will be the first to go in this group of young guns....

Former NBA Player Now Serving in Iraq

Tim James has quickly become one of my heros.....I didn't know much about Tim...just remember him at Miami playing college basketball. I didn't even remember who his Coach was at that time until Coach Hamilton informed me that it was he....and also informed me that he recruited James out of high school.....

But, I came upon his story today and it really touched my heart. I don't know of many who are passionately seeking out a tour in Iraq. Who have blatantly said, "this country has given so much to me I want to give back to it." Well, that's the theme of this story of Tim James.

This former Miami Northwestern High School basketball star has a made a marvelous commitment, one that has shocked many including him Mother and those close to him. James with this wonderful outlook on life that has taken him from a inner city high school to a Div 1 Basketball program like the Hurricanes...to being a draft pick and player for the Miami Heat.....to serving his country in the military and fighting for us all in Iraq. What a story again?

Did this 31 year old not make enough money to avoid going in the military. He not only played for the Heat, but he did stints with the Bobcats and 76ers. He also played overseas in Turkey, Japan, and Israel

"In life, we all have different desires and needs," said Leonard Hamilton, James' college coach and now the coach at Florida State. "With the passion he has, he had to go fulfill this. I'm in total support of Tim and what he's doing. He's at peace. All we can do is hope he comes back safely."

That is so true. We all search for our calling and most times it is not what others plan for us or what others see us doing. But, we sometimes have to form out own path and find our own niche in life...and that's what James did....

James said, "I think of myself as a patriot, I wanted to give back to a country that gave so much to me."

On a personal note I have a brother in the military so I understand the hardship that the family takes on....I know that my Mother took my brothers decision to join the military the hardest....so I understand James mother when she says, she was shocked, that she did not want that for him...but, he had her fill support.....

James' Mother discusses her sons' decision with such passion as she says, " I wanted to scream."

"Betty James never told him she didn't approve, even as her friends told her that her son was out of his mind. She asked him ``Are you sure?'' but never let him know she didn't want what he wanted. Support loudly, pray quietly -- that was her way." Wow, how powerful is that. Now, I see where Spc James gets his inner strength from. "Spc. Tim James of Task Force ODIN — short for Observe, Detect, Identify, Neutralize."
You have to love his commitment to this...his own ability soul search and know exactly what he wanted out of life at this time in his life. Some of us would love to have that type of confidence and decisiveness about life.

Well, the newly arrived soldier to Iraq has it. He has a new team...he is now helping to defend against insurgents and in the meantime defend democracy.

What a feel good story....one of humbleness, dedication, commitment, fight and determination and volunteerism.

Before this story broke James' new team to not he was an NBA Player...did not know he had professional talent although he had scorched them on the court a few times.

"I've been in the heat of the moment on the court in the fourth quarter, tie game, and yes, you would think that's a battle," James said. "There's nothing I hate more than losing. To be here, risking your life, it's definitely another level. It's like a scouting report for a game. All you can do is try to execute your mission. A loss here, that could be a lost life."

Even though he did not play many games with Heat those who were there when he was are very proud of him. Udonnis Haslem who grew up in the same area and admiring James success in leaving the area and ways of his community is very proud.

"Like a lot of Miami kids, Haslem grew up idolizing James. He wears No. 40 in part because James did while being the pioneering first to make the climb from one of our inner cities all the way to the Heat. Haslem, the Heat's enforcer, is tough by most of the measurements we use in sports, all elbows and knees and scars and scowls and want. But now he looks at James and says, ``I'm not tough. He's the Manny Ramirez of tough. The rest of us are Little League pitchers. We're not even allowed on the mound."

The Heat's organization have sent a package over to James and his platoon. A special package for James...a video from those that knew him. And, Coach Riley sent the longest message wishing him well and indicating his pride for his decision. Riley honors troops at home on a consistent basis....and is planning something special for James upon his return.

James is just one month into this twelve month tour....so it will be awhile. But, back home in South Florida everyone is praying for that return...everyone is proud of his decision. And, to everyones knowledge this is the first NBA Player to do such a thing.

James has quickly become one of my heroes....

Can Tebow Do It?

The last five quarterbacks who had a chance to repeat failed. They are Tennessee's Tee Martin, Florida State's Chris Weinke, Miami's Ken Dorsey, Ohio State's Craig Krenzel and Southern Cal's Matt Leinart.

So, can Tebow be different? Can he do something that's never been done before? Well, the time is almost here to find out.

The start of the 2009 season is six days away....we in Gatornation are in one of two modes....turning away from all news of the Gators or soaking all of it up on every college football preview show. I happen to be of the former. I don't want to see anymore. I have heard enough and frankly it just makes me nervous to here the predictions of running thru the SEC. There is no such thing....but of course some of us have talked so much trash as fans....til we cant show our faces if they don't back all this up. Of course present company excluded from that trash talk...okay, well maybe I have talked just a little.

I remain with skeptical optimism.

I will do my best to remind myself that no matter what happens, this 2009 class has had a great four years....2 NCs and 2 SECCs....really how much more can we ask for?

So Tebow and Spikes are the leaders...they have come back for their senior seasons.

College football opens with Va Tech and Alabama on Thurs....and predictions are all in.

Next is College Game Day with Corso, Fowler, Herbstriet, Howard and fellow Gator Erin Andrews.

No more talking now. Let's see who can navigate this season with good coaching and game planning, hard working players, and a little luck and favor.

Go Gators!!!

NFL Fan Litmus Test

I was having a discussion with a NFL fan the other day and we got into a discussion on who was the most knowledgeable fan. Needless to say i take my fanhood pretty seriously....so of course I argued that I was better and he wanted agree to disagree....now anyone who knows me knows i am not leaving it there.

 

So. I got to thinking after I pose some questions to him about the history of the game....and no he couldnt' answer any of them...I started thinking about some things that a student of the NFL game should just know...no matter what.

 

So here goes....and note these are just off the top of my head...nothing that I need to look up...comes from years of watching football and being exposed and appreciating the game:

 

1. The 72' Dolphins are the only undefeated team in NFL history

2, The Steel Curtain consist of Mean Joe Green, Dwight White, L.C. Greenwood, and Ernie Holmes

3. The first RB to go over 2000 yards for the season was  O.J. Simpson....did it in 1973 and rushed for 2003 yards for the Buffalo Bills

4. Who stopped the 85' Bears from an undefeated season....Miami Dolphins and Dan Marino on Monday Night Football...and I was four years old an I watched the game in a Dolphin cheerleader outfit....no lie

5. The legendary owner for the Chicago Bears was George Halas

6. The stat sacks was created because of Deacon Jones and his was widely known nickname was Secretary of Defense

7. The originally Colts were the Baltimore Colts

8. The original Cleveland Browns and their owner Art Modell literally sneaked the franchise out of Cleveland in the middle of the night in 1995 and is now what we know as the Baltimore Ravens

9. The Buffalo Bills lost four Super Bowls in a row. The Vikings lost four in a nine year span

10. Jim Brown was the first player ever to reach the 100 touchdown milestone.

11. Ray Guy was considered the first punter who could win games.

12. Ed "To Tall" Jones was apart of the Doomsday Defense was given the name because he was a DE at 6'9

13. The league did not record sacks as a stat until 1982

14. The most decorated and productive WR is Jerry Rice

 

Okay those are ones off the top of my head...I could have mentioned Vince Lombardi or Joe Namath or Don Shula or Doug Williams or James Harris or Warren Moon or Earl Campbell or Sweetness or Billy White Shoes Johnson or Bum Philips or so many other key tidbits for students of the game.

 

If you know at least 10 of these you are not only a knowledgeable fan but you are a student of the game

If you know 7 or less your fanhood is in question

If you knew 5 or less you should never have tickets on the 50 yard line...nose bleeds for life for you

Florida Gator 2009 Countdown: 7 Days To Go!!

This time next week is the first game....can't wait. My season tickets are here and there has never been this much excitement around the program.

 

Charleston Southern is a gimme game so it's our chance to see what everyone can do and what kind of playing time John Brantley back-up QB will get.

 

I also want to see the kick-off coverage and who is on it. Meyer has made that such a big deal at Florida....so it's a big deal to  the fans....

 

Go Gators!!

 

Only one major injury coming out of camp so far and that is very encouraging. This time last year we a major hit on offense and defense.

I drafted my first league today. I am really going to try and do less this year with Fantasy Football. I was in 11 leagues last year and it became a part-time job. Try to set all your leagues and double check them every Sunday before Church...or traveling in an airport...or calling my brothers and giving them the password because you are not sure if you checked all the bye weeks. So, again this year...and I am really talking to myself here. I am going to do my keeper leagues and re frame from saying yes to everyone that ask me to be there 12th or 10th....and re frame from all the men that challenge me to be in their league because they just don't believe I can take them....

 

This year i will blog on my leagues and how I am doing...last year I started 10-0 in one league...but sweated every week. You guys know what I am talking about. Checking to see if your opponent has any players left for 4pm game and then checking the same thing for the Monday night game....it's murder. Again, I am not doing that this year...

 

Well, here is my first. It's a nothing league...just wanted to go thru one and see how it rolled. I had the second pick in this one...

 

QB's Kurt Warner

       Donavan McNabb

 

RBs Marion Barber

      Leon Washington 

      Ray Rice

      Fred Jackson

 

WRs Larry Fitzgerald

        Lee Evans

       Marques Colston

       Eddie Royal

       Percy Harvin

 

TEs Owen Daniels

      Bo Scaife

 

DSTs  Chargers

         jets

 

K  Kaeding

 

Summary: Love what Warner did last year and to have three WRs with a 1000 yards says it all. Donavan McNabb had some big games and some mediocre games. What happens here is predicting what QB does best during what week against what defense. And, then there is the Vick factor.

 

Leon Washington is my sleeper this year. I watched a game this pre-season and I think they will use him a lot...especially with a Rookie starting QB

 

Can't go wrong with Fitzgerald, but for the most part I am please with my receivers. I think Lee Evans will get more looks now that TO will take some pressure off of him. Also, Percy is my sleeper. I think if he stays healthy he could be a sleeper. And, of course I am a homer here.

 

Not impress totally with my TEs but you have to give up quality somewhere in order to get it somewhere else. But, Daniels is not a slouch and Collins has become the man in Tenn. and really likes Scaife.

 

Kicker and Defense I am pleased with. I think Ryan will have the Jets defense looking like the Ravens....and with Merriman back with the Chargers I think they will be back to their 2007 form

 

Okay everyone....please let me know what you think.

 

 

Michael Vick's Return

I have tried to stay away from the subject....in fact I have been really emotional about the whole story.

And, to tell the truth I have been completely amazed and in disbelief by this story. There is no way that a man gets two years in prison for an inhumane act on animals unless there are powers that be that want to make an example of him. And, we can go into the senseless act and the fact he bankrolled it. But, why? Why so many years?

And. I won't touch PETA as they protest and eating their McDonalds Big Mac at the same time. They are useless and their debate should be with themselves.

But, I am going to try stay away from the negative and talk about the positive on Thursday night.

I was excited for him...Vick that is. And, he looked good for a man who has been away from his sport so long.

Also, I want to point out that McNabb a "Cuse"man" should be commended beyond measure for reaching out and really laying the foundation for all of this...Vick being an Eagle.

But, I think the bigger picture is Vick's demeanor...his conversation....his look. Yes, his look. Isn't it amazing once one gets in trouble with the law that the braids disappear, the earrings disappear? Now, I will save that conversation for a later article. But, I think athletes live in a unconventional world but, once something humbles them....then real life kicks in.

Well, I think real life happened to Vick and I am glad he seems to be succeeding at handling this life that he has now.

I wish him well and will be following his story....cheering for him...and becoming more of an Eagle fan.

The Mystique of Kentucky Basketball Continues

Former Kentucky men's basketball coach Billy Gillispie was arrested early Thursday morning on a DUI charge. It seems that 2009 has been a serious roller coaster for him. He refused to take a breathalyzer or blood alcohol test,which is the advice that I would have given him.  The report is that Gillispie and friend were returning from a golfing trip.

Just another black eye in the world of college basketball coaches this off season...

I was curious to see what some of Bluenation was saying....so below are some of their post on message boards...

 

This is yet another sad chapter in what appears to be a troubled man's life. He keeps jumping ship for bigger and brighter programs, never taking the time to figure himself out. And now the third one of these incidents with alcohol. It's a shame.

 

WOW Just proves what he was doing while he was coach! - Thanks for Jodie Meeks or else we would have had a worse season. That 6 million he claims he is owed from a contract that was never signed - was already only going to be a compromise of 2/3 million. Now with this he'll be lucky to get a million.

 

Was he just asking for trouble in Kentucky? He practically drove the program into the ground and they eat, sleep, and breathe UK basketball! Good luck in court. Chance are, the judge has season tix.

Lots of talk about the Gators still. Have tried to stay away from it of late. Makes me nervous. When it's your team you just want them to do well and live up to their own expectations. I remember when it was Georgia being the Pre-Season #1 in 2008  and their collapse...injuries and star power hurt them....too much star power and not enough leadership from Stafford and Moreno...and as we say in Gatornation preseaon #1 for the Bulldogs and still falling from that ranking...lol. I know, couldn't help it. But, now it's the Gators....and that stuff isn't funny. I want an undefeated season....but I am trying to keep that to myself. But, we all know there is no middle ground this year--no straddling the fence. Either they win a BCS Championship or the season is a failure...all by our own standards...

 

Here are the Swamp Notes from this week.....

 

Maurkice Pouncey back to practice after being held out all Spring and Summer. He had surgery after suffering a torn labrum. Looks like the OL is getting to be a solid unit again...

 

Rumor is Brandon Beal redshirt freshman LB is transferring to Rutgers and some Big 10 school. Coach Meyer says, "not true."

 

Team of the decade will be named after the this year....Can Florida be named team of the decade....if they win another championship I think that seals it....

 

 Defensive line is coming together too....Jaye Howard has take away number one spot from Terron Sanders.....Others along the line have improved too...look to see Omar Hunter live up to his billing this year.

 

Chris Low ranks SEC LBs by team....Florida's LBs were #2 behind Alabama. See who made the top five.

Dorian Munroe

Dorian Munroe will be sideline for about six weeks with a knee injury as he suffers another set back. He had a procedure done to repair his meniscus.
 
As a red-shirt Sr this was his year of redemption. Munroe tore his ACL in pre-season practice last year and missed the entire season....
 
I wish him a fast recovery...

Gators voted Pre-Season #1 in the AP Poll. The Gators have made history by being the most overwhelming preseason #1 in the history of the poll. "The previous highest percentage of first-place votes for the AP preseason poll, which started in 1950, was 95.4 percent for USC in 2007. Those Trojans got 62 of 65 first-place votes—and didn't play for the national title." So truly this poll means nothing except for some additonal air time on ESPN.

More stripes lost this week....Stephen Ali (FR) WR and Nick Alajajian (FR) OL...

Dustin Doe is not back yet. He has resolved his legal issues and must do some community service. CM says, "Doe will undoubtedly face some suspenson by the team for driving without a valid license.

Champions Night was a huge success. This is a night created by Coach Meyer in 2006. It's a night where a guess speaker is brought in to speak to the team about how to be a champions....video this year was of the Gators National Championship Game, the Heat Championship, and old film of Muhammad Ali. GUest Speaker was Tony Dungy. Speakers at previous champions night were Billy Donovan, Doc Rivers, and Cris Carter. Note: Doc Rivers daughter is on scholarshp at Florida and his son has commited to Gator Basketball.

Coach Meyer v Ron Zook

Coach Meyer made some statements to the media that I thought he should have kept in house...

In part, Meyer said Friday that when he became the Gators' coach that freshmen had a separate locker room, that there were fights because the freshmen were treated like non-people, that players were beaten up and eyebrows were shaved and that it took his staff awhile to break that culture.

Zook, the coach at Illinois, released a statement:

"I was surprised to see that, once again, five years later, we're blamed for something else at Florida. But by now I guess I shouldn't be," Zook said. "This one was most disappointing because it implies we didn't look out for our players. From someone who wasn't there at the time. I can assure you I've never, ever been accused of that."I thought I was too much of a players' coach.

"The implication is incorrect. There is no place for hazing in college football and we've put a stop to that if we've ever seen it. I applaud Florida for fostering what they say is a wonderful family atmosphere. I would invite anyone to talk to any of our players here at Illinois and, although we don't look for media opportunities to brag about it, it is a wonderful family atmosphere."

"Meyer sought to clarify his comments when he met with the media following Saturday's scrimmage."Some people said there were criticisms of coaches and there absolutely was not,"

Meyer said. "It was about locker room, the way the locker room set up was. Our staff has never been critical of any staff. The question was something about Miami's fight which I don't know anything about and I said we've had fights here a lot because of the locker room in the past and it's not that way anymore because the locker room has changed."

FSU Turns In Oklahoma To The NCAA

Considering the disdain I have for FSU football program I found this story funny. I have to be careful with this story though. There are some people within the FSU program namely basketball, that I respect so much and don't want to offend...even in something like this.

Now with that being said, "there are some obvious parallels between the stories of Mike Balogun from Oklahoma and Corey Surrency from Florida State. "Both players skipped the usual recruitment process as teenagers, played briefly in approved "developmental" leagues for little to no pay, eventually enrolled in junior college and earned scholarships with major programs. Both were on track for degrees until the NCAA descended with an obscure rule that stripped them of their senior seasons because their semi-pro stints – otherwise acceptable – extended past their 21st birthdays." I didn't know that to be the case either. That once it extends past your 21st birthday...that you are in trouble.

Apparently Florida State noticed the similarities, too, according to the Oklahoman, because it was the 'Noles who ratted Balogun out. Wow, is all I have to say to that.

Here is the information provided in the court records: Oklahoma's Balogun's lawsuit against the NCAA allege that comments made by the FOX TV announcers immediately after that play (a tackle in the BCS Championship game vs. Florida) ultimately sparked the NCAA's inquiry into Balogun's past.

"He played a little semi-pro ball, the Prince George Jets, the Maryland Marauders, before he went to Lackawanna," color commentator Charles Davis pointed out during the telecast. Hey, I like Charles Davis too....I wouldn't think that he hasn't thought anymore about this and that he wasn't apart of bringing this to light on purpose.

According to court records too, the day after watching the title game and hearing Davis' remarks about Balogun's semi-pro past, an official from Florida State's compliance office contacted the Big 12 Conference and suggested the league investigate Balogun's eligibility. I personally think it was a coach that overheard it and started to think and then went to the compliance office.

I was actually shocked when I saw the headline FSU turns in Oklahoma. Considering all the that FSU is going through with the NCAA, you would think they would stay away from other teams' mess....even if it would clarify one of their situations.

I didn't remember the Surrency situation at all. My dad had to remind me of it and, give me his thoughts that FSU was probably just trying to get clarity on this case versus theirs....sure Dad. I think this was good ole "if my guy can't play for these reasons then neither can your guy.

As of now, Oklahoma's Balogun is on the outside looking in with two weeks left before the season starts..

What's even more interesting is that no matter what these two teams start a home and home in 2010. What a way to initiate a rivalry?

Another Transfer for Gator Basketball

Vargas will be leaving Gator Basketball.

Coach Donovan had alluded to some problems with Vargas academically earlier this week. Now it has all come clear. He will be leaving.

The word also is that he will be visiting Kentucky this weekend.

Vargas was recruited heavily by new Kentucky assistant coach Orlando Antigua when Antigua was at Pittsburgh two years ago.

Vargas was a top-30 national prospect out of American Heritage High in Plantation, but never materialized into an impact player during his freshman season at Florida.

"If Vargas enrolls at Kentucky, he would become the 11th Florida player to transfer since the 2003-04 season, a list that includes Mario Boggan (Oklahoma State), Ryan Appleby (Washington), Rashid Al-Kaleem (Division III American University), Mohamed Abukar (San Diego State), Jimmie Sutton (FAU), David Huertas (Ole Miss), Brandon Powell (Marshall), Jonathan Mitchell (Rutgers), Jai Lucas (Texas) and Allan Chaney (Virginia Tech)."

Alex Tyus also announced his intention to transfer from the Florida program in April, but decided to return after a meeting with Donovan about his role on the team.

It is obvious that this program is in trouble. You just don't have this many kids leaving the program and not have some issues. Including academic issues....why is the staff not more on top of this before a student-athlete gets in trouble?

Now, the word is he was too soft and that is going to be advantageous for Coach Donovan recruiting someone that will acclimate to his system better....but, I am really concerned about our program....forget looking towards this year and trying to get into the NCAA Tourney....what message are we sending to potential recruits?

Usain Has Gotta Be Juiced

There is just no way that this man is not juiced. Track and Field in general is a mess and I believe they are all taking some form of drugs....that's the whole Jamaican Team

 

To have a man come into the sport and have five world records in a year is astounding. Unbelievable if you ask me.

 

He obliterated the records though...and this is after a car accident and injuries to his toe....

 

I say the sports history points to juice....illegal substance....I would like to believe that his phenomenon is just that...I have doubts though. And, the USA Team has been dirty too. 

 

But, Usain Bolt...."He is erasing chunks of time from records that normally take years to break. He is beating the so-called competition by body lengths -- this time, Alonso Edward of Panama was 0.62 seconds behind -- in a sport often decided by photo finishes."

 

Hmm...doesn't that make you think? Can this 6'5 charismatic track star really be performing on raw talent and great coaching...

 

I am just a little bit skeptical

 

Until then I will enjoy with the rest of the world....

 

And, Happy Birthday Usain....another Leo making a splash in world events.

 

Plexico Gets Two Years....

This decision rendered for Plexico seals it. I now know in my heart that there is a certain status quo that is out to get professional athletes.

 

I understand the laws clearly that Plexico violated. And truly, unless the DIstrict Attorney just wanted to send a message to someone there is no way he should have gotten two years.

 

He shot himself...this gun was not used to threaten anyone else or use to commit another act of violence. They threaten him with the prosecutable amount of three and half years and settled on two. I can't blame the defense attorney here. This was beyond his scope of ability. There was no convincing anyone of anything less.

 

And, these same men who I am sure cheered Plex and the team on for the Super Bowl and probably bugged him for tickets and autographs found him expendable in the grand scheme of things.

 

When it came down to the DA's office and the Mayors office they had a point to prove and they did. I know that re-election is coming and that surely these politicians have some people to please.

 

He was charged with criminal possession and reckless endangerment. Come on NY. As another attorneyy said...."prison is for bad people not stupid people." And, Plex did a stupid thing and gets two years...really?

 

What's important to note hear is that no one at the club reported this incident. No one at the hospital reported a gun shot wound. If he had not been in the public eye he would be virtually a free man.

 

And, I am not saying that Burress should get a pass because he is an athlete with talent. And, I understand that this was probably the road Plex was headed down since he seems to not understand boundaries or like to adhere to rules. I know the era of diva WRs has passed.

 

I am saying under normal circumstances with Joe blo I could have plead anyone else out to a lesser sentence.

 

Consider this example number 2 NFL players. Please heed the precedent set before you and keep yourself out of these situations.

 

You are undoubtedly making too much money....exuding to much flash and arrogance.....and dating the wrong color of woman....

 

Plexico and Vick has to be your warning....has to be your standard of operation now.

I'm In Heaven....Tony Dungy Has On Gator Gear....

Coach Dungy visited with the Gators on Thursday. He was invited by Coach Meyer to speak to the team. Coach Dungy address the team about character off the field and about being champions and good citizens off the field.

 

Needless to say. I really like Coach Dungy and what he stands for....I am glad to see him embrace Gatornation. More so, I am glad to see Coach Meyer respect who is and have him around our campus.

 

There is no better ambassador of the game that Tony Dungy...

 

Dungy said, "he has admired what the Gators do from a distance and scouted UF teams in the past. He said their meeting Thursday was a chance to talk to the team about developing off the field."

Womens Boxing....

It was announced last week that Women's Boxing will be apart of the 2012 Olympics...

 

Tell me who really wants to see this sport....and when did it get to be so popular and, in such demand that it has a following?

 

I will not be watching....and no I don't watch men boxing either. I find the sport very barbaric...senseless....and health trouble for all involve in years to come.

 

But, I really find repulsive for women. I can't imagine entering a sport to compete in that was going to change me physically and in my face. Yes, I know this makes me sound very vain. But, I am willing to take the heat on this one. I am willing for you all to tease me.

 

But, I kinda like my face....kinda don't want to see bruises all on my upper body. And, please tell me the mindset of a woman that does. I mean a real woman....

 

And, I am not saying that these women who participate in this sport aren't real or maybe I am....but, what happen to grace and being ladylike?

 

And, I play sports. Played through high school and college. I will challenge you to a game of basketball to settle an dispute in a heartbeat. I will play it all and may even try hockey one day....but boxing...when did this sport get to this stage?

 

Yeah, yeah, I know men like to see women in a harmless, senseless argument or fight. Thank God I never stooped to that either....but true boxing has gotta hurt...call me a punk...I want no parts of that.

 

It has been said that because of the Olympic announcement to carry this sport....women's sports just took a huge leap forward...not in my book.

 

I think the role of women has taken a step back. Yes I want my future daughters to be able to have choices...but, not this choice.

 

My Mother, Grandmother, and Aunts.....wanted a different kind of daughter, granddaughter, and niece than that.

 

Is it not okay to be a professional woman, with desires to be domestic, and have the ability to be athletic?

 

I just don't see this as progress.

 

I think we as women all want opportunities and options and new trails to blaze....except this one.

 

I love it that Women's Soccer Great Brandi Chastain ripped off her shirt in the World Cup too....

 

I love it that we have the WNBA.....and that women's college basketball has come along way.....

 

But, I agree with the writer that said, "Women's Boxing and Women's MMA has less depth that Paris Hilton....."

Florida Gators Are Heavy Favorites In Their Opener

The Gators open the season against Charleston Southern on Sept 5th.

 

A reporter from USA Today has made the Gators a 73 point favorite in it's opener..

 

Only once since 1942 would Florida have covered a 73-point spread (Sept. 6, 1997 vs. Central Michigan, 82-6), and the largest margin of victory for Urban Meyer at Florida is 62 points (Nov. 18, 2006 vs. Western Carolina).

 

This blog is for you Rob and Keith....

Non Conference Scheduling in College Football v Basketball

It seems that I have a different view of non-conference scheduling in College Football than some of my friends. I personally believe that it should be balance between those games that you think have a high probability of winning and one of a good opponent that also looks good on your resume when you win.

I also think that this different perspective comes from being apart of different conferences...

Here are a couple of posters from another article on my blog and their views on this subject....which sparked this particular blog.....

Post 1
"I have a topic for you to discuss on your blog. College football should be treated similarly to college basketball. A lot of emphasis should be placed on out of conference strength of schedule. It's ironic that state schools can buy games in football but complain when private schools do it in basketball."

Post 2
"Look at that yahoo in Tenn. Doing everything but run naked to big up a Vols team which will be .500 at best....publicity Ballcoach don't vote for GODS QB..publicity...a school plays a small school from South Carolina, gives them big chunck of change to get bashed in The SWAMP to inflate stats...publicity...that's the name of the game. How many t-shirts can be sold, how many times they can be on TV....IT's about the PUB."

Both of these posters seem to be operating on the point of view that one, college football needs to see OOCS as college basketball, two, OOCS is a way to buy a win, and three, these games are a pure publicity stunt.

First, I do believe that College Football should do a better job with OOC Games. But, it again it has to be a happy medium between padding your schedule, preparing yourself for conference play, and giving some Div II team a payout. Now let me take this opportunity to point out the Gators OOCS last year was Hawaii, Miami, and FSU....no slouches there. Can't say the same this year though...with the likes of Charleston Southern on schedule.

But here are the facts as I see them. SEC teams can't afford to go all out with non-conference games....the rigors of the SEC schedule is enough if you would like to have a remote chance at the BCS Championship Game. It's not about publicity, it's about style points. And, right now because of the way ESPN and others feel, the SEC is considered the toughest. They can get away without a marquee match up outside of it's conference....I do commend Alabama who went beyond this trend and schedule the likes of Clemson last year and Va Tech this year. I commend Georgia who opens at Oklahoma State....has Arizona State at home....and then goes to Ga Tech later on in the year....but, I say Georgia will be 8-4 this year and no threat in their conference or nationally.

Big East Football is no comparison...if it wants to get noticed at all right now it needs to be searching for these kind of games....hence, games with Notre Dame and USC coming up. Now that's publicity....because there are no powerhouses in Big East Football. West Virginia was on the verge...so was Louisville with Petrino....Rutgers had a good run....but, again, no powerhouses....they will have to create some interest.

I would venture to say Vanderbilt or Miss State...the bottom of the SEC could match up and win against any team in the Big East. The exception maybe South Florida. As a matter of fact, there are many in the Big East that could be homecoming games for teams in the SEC...or even the Big 12 or Pac 10. No knock here, just being a realist. I like good football and want to see them to improve.....

Let's say we took Big East Basketball....the roles would be reverse. Big East in basketball the last two years has taken over the best basketball conference from the ACC. If you want to watch marquee games in college basketball watch the Big East. Really....SOS gong into the tourney was not as big for those schools as it was for an SEC teams....who struggle to get three teams in the tourney and really didn't deserve but two.

SEC reigns in football....one loss....win your conference championship game and you are in....unless there two undefeated teams in country that year. Can't afford to seek a stronger non conference....no SEC team would make it....would be too beat up physically. After the SECCG last year against Alabama....there is no way Florida could have played the following week....you have to schedule some cream puff games to get some rest and heal your players. The SEC is called the "baby NFL.".

While the SEC in basketball is seeking to find some Big East and ACC games this year to look better....the Big East and ACC and Big Ten in football is seeking the same thing in football....and if they get a win...we all go home singing......

I don't know if you can put anymore emphasis on it than that "J." There is a disparity in games played....so many games in basketball and such parity that more criteria needed to be instituted hence, SOS

This year Florida Basketball plays Syracuse, Michigan State, Xavier, Rutgers, and FSU....a much better SOS schedule. But, if they don't navigate it very well....they will playing in the NIT hoping to get to MSG. If we navigate it and get 10 wins in the conference we are a lock in the tourney...

No pub....just reality. Rob....and the SEC has figured out a formula and will probably stick with it. Whether it pads your stats or not. It's going to force the Big Ten and the Pac-10 to get a conference championship game.

Go Gators!!!!

Does God Have a Tim Tebow Complex?

Tim Tebow featured in the new GQ issue. "Does God Have a Tim Tebow Complex? dives into his life one more time. Yes I love the Gators...but really how many different angles can we do this story? Love the pics though....

Basketball Update

The Florida men's basketball team will have three appearances on ESPN's nationally-televised Super Tuesday broadcasts during the 2009-10 basketball season. The weekly series features an SEC-Big Ten doubleheader each week during the regular season

The Gators will open the Super Tuesday broadcasts with a 9 p.m. home game against Kentucky on Jan. 12. It will be the first trip to Gainesville for John Calipari as Kentucky's new head basketball coach.

Florida will also play in the last two Super Tuesday telecasts of the season: a Feb. 23 game against Tennessee at 9 p.m. and March 2 game vs. Vanderbilt at 7 p.m.

It's worthy of noting that the courting of WIldcat Basketball has started. Kentucky has four appearances on Super Tuesday. It will obviously give the old Bluegrass Nation something to do.....

Here is the full SEC slate of Super Tuesday games:

January 12: Kentucky at Florida, 9 p.m.
January 19: Tennessee at Alabama, 7 p.m.
January 26: Kentucky at South Carolina, 9 p.m.
February 27: Mississippi at Kentucky, 7 p.m.
February 9: Tennessee at Vanderbilt, 7 p.m.
February 16: Kentucky at Mississippi State, 9 p.m.
February 23: Tennessee at Florida, 9 p.m.
March 27: Vanderbilt at Florida, 7 p.m.

Joe Montana Weighs in on Tim Tebow

The Hall of Fame QB Joe Montana has given his opinion on Tim Tebow. I first read there was an opinion by Montana on a message board. The recollection of his statement by Montana was not too favorable of Tebow.

 

Anyway, it was an interview by Dan Patrick on his show and Dan ask what he thought of Tebow at the next level. Montana basically said, "he is going to have to get under center at some point..,.and that, "it is hard to figure out what scouts are looking for."

 

Now, what I read on the message board is that "Montana rip Tebow a new one"....I know...such language huh? But, I don't think it was bad at all....check it out for yourself.

Bobby Bowden says, "Charlie Ward Was Better Than Tebow"

The question was posed to Coach Bowden, if Tebow was the best ever....and here is Coach Bowden response.

 

"People keep asking me about Tebow," Bowden said. "You know, is he the best ever? I don't know if he's better than Charlie. I don't think he runs better than Charlie. I don't think he throws better than Charlie. And Charlie only played quarterback two years for us."

 

I don't really know what to say about this except I would expect Bowden to favor his guy. And, really I like Charlie Ward now. I didn't like him at all when he played for FSU which is a true testament to his play. The guy was a game changer and I don't think he ever lost to us. It's hard to compare since Ward only played two years. And, Ward was just mediocre his first year...but, his second year, outstanding....unmatched except by maybe Tommy Frazier and....they were National Champs.

 

He are the stats though....you decide.

 

PASSING

Attempts: Ward 750 - Tebow 681
Completions: Ward 473 - Tebow 448
Com. %: Ward 63.3 - Tebow 65.8
Yards: Ward 5747 - Tebow 6390
Interceptions: Ward 22 - Tebow 11
Yards/Attempt: Ward 7.66 - Tebow 9.38
Touchdowns: Ward 49 - Tebow 67
Pass efficiency: Ward 143.13 - Tebow 173.84

RUSHING

Attempts: Ward 172 - Tebow 475
Yards: Ward 889 - Tebow 2037
Touchdowns: Ward 10 - Tebow 43
Yards/Rush: Ward 5.17 - Tebow 4.29

TOTAL OFFENSE

Attempts: Ward 922 - Tebow 1156
Net yards: Ward 6636 - Tebow 8427
Touchdowns: Ward 59 - Tebow 110
Yards/Play: Ward 7.20 - Tebow 7.29

TEAM RESULTS WITH WARD AND TEBOW AS STARTING QB

Record: FSU 23-2 - UF 22-5
Total points scored: FSU 982 - UF 1163
Total points allowed: FSU 317 - UF 512

Lane Kiffin Bowl....September 19th

This is Lane Kiffins' introductory speech to Volunteer fans in February. As you can see signs were made of this particular part of the speech since it pertains to Florida.

Granted, if the talk ended there about Florida and Coach Meyer, Gator fans could just chalk it up to some good ole SEC banter. But, it didn't and, Kiffin went on to accuse Meyer and the program of cheating....which he thought he should then turn the Gators in.

I will give you one guess to where these signs are posted. That's right in the Gator Sports Complex.....there are actual tee shirts available too.

When asked about this now, Coach Meyer will skirt around the talk and say, "they are preparing for Charleston Southern on Sept 5th." But, we gator fans know better and we have personally thought about this match-up since that day in February. These signs are proof that Urban Meyer is thinking about it too and has a serious reminder for his players.

When OL Matt Patchan was asked what would he say to Coach Kiffin if he had the chance. His response was, "probably nothing I think he is a "Bozo." Now, first of all I blame the media for asking a kid who hadn't played a meaningful down for the Gators such a question.....they baited him. Anyway, Coach Meyer has apologized and said, "we don't need to be saying that, we need to be focusing on us."

The disdain for each other is at an all time high. And, to have these signs posted in the facility signifies that. I really feel this game could be lopsided. But, don't discount the talent of Tenn..they will come to play....with daddy Kiffin and all.

Can't wait though....don't think I have known another program to post another Coaches' speech. This should be the early game of the year.

Take a look at the video that some Vol fan shot in the Gator Sports Complex....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yO35wuoul9A&feature=player_embedded

Greg Paulus is the QB At Syracuse Guys.....

The former PG at Duke Greg Paulus is now the starting QB at Syracuse. Just one word....hilarious. This says so much about the program of Syracuse. They are terrible. If a former basketball player who has not played organized football in four years can come in and win the starting job at a Big East School then it speaks volumes....all I have to say is, "I know that guy that played QB last year is pissed"....yeah, I know, I went there.

Also, Paulus is a PG that had more turnovers than assist in his first year at Duke. He was eventually replaced by a freshman PG that obviously had more talent. Paulus was a crowd favorite because he was a hustler, gritty, would sacrifice is body and, had an occasional three-point shot.

Well, Greg this isn't 7 on 7. This is really college football. One reporter stated, "when he watched scrimmage at Syracuse he could not tell the player who had not been on the field in four year." Are you kidding me? It's Syracuse...they were 3-9 last year....there were probably a lot of them on the field who looked like they hadn't been on the field in four years....hence, Paulus blended in.

Hmmm....wait til someone hits him and he has to get back up. Or maybe that's not the brand of football they play in the Big East....we all know that is basketball country.

No one on the college level in north or especially in the Tri-State area can really be taken serious in football anyway....can they? Donald Brown from UConn has to be the exception here. But, they are too busy with their hands in the hand warmers....rather than trying to rack up receiving or rushing yardage. Or they are getting their workouts by shoveling snow. Now, I know someone is going to chime in on this one and rattle off some names of successful college players in the North....and yeah I know this is Jim Browns' country....his Alma mater....but Jim Brown is in his seventies and can barely walk....and that's about the amount of energy that the Orangeman brought to the field last year. The program or the conference hasn't been relevant since McNabb was there.

Do me a favor Orangemen...save us....go meet at the fifty yard line at the Carrier Dome gentlemen...bring your scholarships and let's have a bon-fire. Take up a basket-weaving or something and spare us because we all know another 3-9 season is on the way.

And, if this was on in the SEC he would be trying out for water boy and we would be calling him Adam Sandler....what a joke? You know every conference in the North needs to be embarrass today.

Is this all you have? A former back-up PG from the ACC....(another powerhouse conference in college football and yes I am being facetious) now a starting QB in the Big East.

Harvin Was Injured Once Again....

I purposely looked at the box score for the Vikings/Colts Game. And, to my surprise or disappointment no stats for Harvin. He was held out for precautionary reasons with an undisclosed shoulder injury.

 

I think it goes without saying that I love my Gators and that I am possibly the biggest homer. I say that to say, "I really wanted a different Harvin in the pros....an injury free Harvin." It seems like this was just an minor injury but, for a first round draft pick Harvin needs to be in the game. He needs to be proving that he worthy of that pick and the money.

 

Next game up is this Friday against Kansas City. I really hope he shows Minnesota everything he showed Gatornation.

The Fans's Day At Florida

This is always an anticipated day for Gatornation and this past Sunday was no different. As you can see people turned out in the thousands. It's called Fans' Day. And, all that are passionate about the alligators are in heaven for an afternoon.

David Nelson, Riley Cooper, and Deonte Thompson...the WRs that we are all looking to have productive seasons and replace the yards of Percy Harvin and Louis Murphy.

Tim and John Brantley....Brantley will see lots of action this year in the back up role. He has really been impressive and played well last year I thought. I also think that the Gators won't miss a beat QB once Tebow graduates...I think he is that good.

The Pouncey Twins who are the cornerstone of the offensive line. These brothers origanally commited to Florida State but, felt really at home once they took a visit to Florida. The rest is history. Both will surely be drafted once they come out.

Jordan Reed, Fr and the third QB on the team. I am excited about Jordan. He is the mirror size of Tebow with a little better speed and a great arm.

Jon Bostic and Jelani Jenkins.....the LBs of our future. Both highly touted. Bostic is said to see playing time this year. Entering college in January he had a chance to participate in Spring Drills and really performed. It has carried over into preseason. Jelani was the #1 ranked MLB recruited last season and lots is expected. The good news is the Gators are stacked at LB and he has time to learn.

Three Freshman Lose Their Stripes

The Florida Gator Football Team has a sort of "rite of passage" under head coach Urban Meyer for all of its true freshmen players.

During fall practice, players have a helmet stripe removed from their gear when they have proven to Meyer that they are ready to play at a collegiate level.

This black stripe is put over the Gator white stripe on their helmets.

This initiation usually takes place towards the middle of fall practice, but, Meyer stated after the Gators' first fall scrimmage that two players had lost their helmet stripes.

Mike Gillislee and OT Jonotthan Harrison were the first to lose their stripes and join the rest of the veterans as official members of the Florida Gators football team.

Both have been impressive in fall camp so far, it is said that Harrison has almost assuredly worked his way into a key backup role at a position of need for the Gators. Meyer really loves his drive and hustle and he should definitely avoid a redshirt this season.

Florida Gators running back Mike Gillislee was the first newcomer though of 2009. He lost his stripe on Saturday. Meyer stated, that he didn't know his assignment sometimes but he had played extremely hard on every play....so much so that it impressed him.

Jordan Reed, third string QB at Florida and true freshman from Conn. is the lastest to lose his stripe which happened on Sunday....

We put him in the circle of love, circle of life, circle of hate, whatever it is that drill's called and he went after Kedric Johnson and got him," coach Urban Meyer said after Monday's practice. "We'll start that tradition. If you're a quarterback and you defeat a defensive lineman, you get your stripe off."

The last three years we have seen great production out of the players that have lost their stripe first: Jeff Demps, Major Wright, and someone named Percy Harvin.

Go Gators!!!!

Florida State signs new 5-year deal with coach Leonard Hamilton

Congrats Coach on your new contract. You are deserving of so much more. But, the fact that they gave you an extention at all speaks volumes.

Your leadership is turning FSU into a basketball school too.

But good luck to you in the upcoming season except when you come to visit the rowdy reptiles.

My personal prediction is second in the ACC.

Safe travels in Spain....

Here are some comments from the FSU message board....looks like you have some fan support.

"Its a big contract but I'm glad we have coach Ham long term. It would have been nice to get him for less but coach Ham was in demand another school would have paid him as much or more maybe. And Ham is inking guys like Singleton how much is he worth? Getting a California guy ranked #7 nationally like Snaer how much value does that bring to the program? I get the argument that its alot of money to commit to givin the financial difficulties we face but in my opinion coach Ham will be more than worth it."

"Been to nearly every home game for 15 years. I’ve seen consistent improvement throughout his tenure at what is/used to be a non basketball school. His kids play extremely hard, improve their games while they are here and nearly all of them graduate and stay out of trouble. He has this program heading in the right direction and I am happy his contract was extended. I hope his assistants are being rewarded as well."

Here is the story on ESPN:

Florida State signs new 5-year deal with coach Leonard Hamilton - ESPN

Top Selling Colleges in Licensee Merchandise

I have noticed this list for several years now. Great job for Florida to move into the #2 spot. That is a first in school history. They also pulled in 4.7 million dollars in just licensed revenue. They have definitely become one of the most recognizable brands out there with two basketball and two football NC.

This is Texas' fourth year in a row at #1.....they have held that spot since "InVincible" took them to the National Championship Game. Before that North Carolina held down the spot for five years straight.

I was surprised to Kentucky so high and then I remember this more about the passion of the fans as much as it is about the exposure and purchasing of merchandise. They are a basketball state just as North Carolina still is even though there are the Bobcats and the Panthers....and that blue is everywhere come fall.

Also of note is that there are five SEC teams in the top 10.....four in the top 5....which shows the success and the passion of our fans.

Our in state rivals Florida State is at #15 and Miami is at #26.....right where they should be considering their mediocre performances over the past few years and their bandwagon fans.

Also, no USC or Ohio State....which means they have to operated on a different licensee network and those numbers are not reported. No way they are not in the top 50.

Interesting list to look at though...

(1.) The University of Texas at Austin

(2.) University of Florida

(3.) University of Georgia

(4.) Louisiana State University

(5.) The University of Alabama

(6.) The University of Michigan

(7.) University of North Carolina

(8.) The Pennsylvania State University

(9.) University of Notre Dame

(10.) University of Tennessee

(11.) The University of Oklahoma

(12.) Auburn University

(13.) University of Kentucky

(14.) University of Wisconsin

(15.) Florida State University

(16.) University of Arkansas

(17.) University of Illinois

(18.) West Virginia University

(19.) The University of Kansas

(20.) University of Nebraska

(21.) University of Missouri

(22.) University of South Carolina

(23.) Clemson University

(24.) Purdue University

(25.) Texas Tech University

(26.) University of Miami

(27.) University of Minnesota

(28.) Oklahoma State University

(29.) The University of Arizona

(30.) University of Washington

(31.) The University of California Berkeley

(32.) University of Louisville

(33.) Oregon State University

(34.) Duke University

(35.) University of Maryland

(36.) Kansas State University

(37.) Washington State University

(38.) The University of Virginia

(39.) Georgia Institute of Technology

(40.) Syracuse University

(41.) University of Colorado

(42.) University of Pittsburgh

(43.) Stanford University

(44.) University of Mississippi

(45.) Boise State University

(46.) Brigham Young University

(47.) The State University of New Jersey

(48.) University of Utah

(49.) University of Cincinnati

(50.) University of Connecticut

(51.) Boston College

(52.) Fresno State