Fantasy Football Questions

1. Would you start Eli Manning v KC rather Tom Brady v Baltimore?

 

2. Would you start Fred Taylor over Willie Parker? I keep thinking Parker is going to do something.

 

3. I have a two QB League. Should I start Joe Flacco v NE or Matt Schaub v Oakland in the second spot?

 

4. Should i start Tayshard Choice over Steve Slaton and Ray RIce?

 

5. Should I start the 49ers DEF against St Louis?

NFL's Best Performances of Week 3

 

Fantasy Football Recap: Week 3

ESPN Leagues

Free Safety (2-1)       
NY Giants (2-1) 
Atlanta Champions (2-1) 
Dolphins (1-2) 
Tampa Bay (2-1) 

Yahoo Leagues
Florida Gators (2-1) 
Gaturs (2-1)  

NFL.com
Jaguars (0-3) 
Buzz Football Div (3-0)  

I am ashamed to have an 0-3 team...but that team is awful. Can't make any excuses at all. Will see what I can do with it from free agency. My WRs suck in that league.

None of my number one QBs have had consistent games in any of my leagues. Brady and Warner have struggled  And, Brees surprised me this week with a sub-par performance. Gonna start Percy soon. Even though his production on special teams goes to DST. Now comes the bye weeks and thats when the true test to fantasy football begins. That is making the best decisions with your back-ups and bench.

Comments

As a Longhorn fan I of course want UF to loose.  But I do not want anyone hurt to get it !!
I hope that Mr. Tebow  is able to have a full recovery and return to top form quickly.    I wish all sports fans would come together and understand that there is a price to pay at this level sometimes. It is at these time we should learn to "postpone" our rivalries for the good of all players and sporting communities.
Best wishes to UF for his rapid recovery.  I hope we can all meet with both teams at full strength in the BCS.....
Hook'em Horns...

Same here...
From a Sooners fan! 
Hope Tebow returns soon...
Boomer Sooner!

-I know we bash each other all the time. Just wanted to say I am hoping for a good smooth speedy recovery for Tebow. I never want to see a kid get hurt. Good luck to you guys.
UGA

-To the Gator Nation:  First and foremost, prayers and thoughts to Tebow, his family, the doctors and nurses caring for him, and to the Gator Nation. We wish him a speedy and full recovery.

Second, great game last night.  Realistic KY fans (like myself) didn't really expect an upset.  Keep up the good work this season and keep the SEC on top.  Since you all knocked us out of BCS Championship contention last night (haha) bring another one home for the best conference in college football!
Peace and best wishes!

-ANYBODY that cheers the injury of another player, no matter WHO it is doesn't deserve to wear the blue and white.  I was actually sitting just above the Florida section at the game last night (season tix). Some dumba$$ wearing UK stuff (I won't acknowledge him as a fan) was actually cheering when Tim got hit.  I'm proud to say that a bunch of my fellow FANS jumped his @$$ before any of the Florida fans could say a word.

By the way, from where I sat last night, the Florida fans around me were a class act.  I wish our fans would extend the same courtesy....even at home. 

College Football Recap: Week 4

Well, the Top 25 certainly took a hit. Numbers 4,5, 6, and 9 from the AP Poll Top 10 alone went down in Week 4.

Besides the Florida game. I watched the South Carolina and Miami games in their entirety. I really thought that Ole Miss was getting a pass from last year and their win over Texas Tech. Since then there has been an appreciation for the Rebels and subsequently the top ten billing to start the season. Well, they didn't live up to it on Thursday on national television. And, it doesn't make the SEC look good either. The #4 team in the country, representing the SEC and, now most fans are saying this ranking was just the matrimony that ESPN and other media outlets have with this conference. 

Jevan Snead was inconsistent as I suspected he would be. And, I don't say that to be maliciious but, because Snead has battled the flu pretty hard and in the midst of that sickness lost his grandfather. One never can tell how someone handles such a loss. But, if he is anything like me losing someone so close can take it's toll on you emotionally and it showed

South Carolina's Eric Norwood played another game of his life and, I think he was the difference down the stretch. Garcia didn't win the game for them but, he didn't lose it either and that is such an improvement from last year. He is not making stupid plays and putting his defense in awful position. Result a win for the Gamecocks and a loss for the conference.

Miami has to be a shocker of the weekend...but, not the number one shocker. That title goes to Penn State and Iowa continuing to rule in Happy Valley.

I have read the Miami message boards and most Hurricane fans blame the loss on the weather and rainy conditions. Guys, your name is the Hurricanes...you live in inclimate weather...you practice in it.

Va Tech dominated from beginning to end and completely shut down Miami and the newly appointed best QB in the State of Florida Jacory Harris. Not so fast my friend. He was rattled and rattled early. As, Coach Shannon said, "that's a good football team and I am not going to say our speed was slowed down by the rain. The Hokies played in the same weather that we did." Couldn't have said it better myself Coach Shannon. You got out-schemed today, out-played today, and out hustled. And, here come the Sooners. I still say though Harris has poise to win a lot of games for Miami.

What do you say about Penn State? Well, if you were going to have a loss in the season it's better to have it early. In 2008 Florida loss in wk 4 and went on to be in position for a spot in the BCS Championship Game. A lot of things happened like Texas Tech beating the Longhorns...Iowa upsetting the Nittany Lions and USC losing to Oregon State and no one giving the Buckeyes any love. But, still that's what this whole system has come down to. Lose early and be one of those one loss teams in the mix at the end.

Let's take Penn State now. Even after JoePa's press conference letting everyone know this wasn't a revenge game...they come out on the first play of the game and change their identity and throw a long touchdown pass. You can't tell me that they didn't want blood for being knock into insignificance last year. But, again they couldn't finish and the Hawkeyes scored 16 points in the 4th quarter. Game over.

Cal and Jahvid Best wanted USC at home on October 3rd with both 4-0. What they got was USC losing to Washington two weeks before and them looking pass the Ducks. And, man did they look pass them. They were completely got outplayed and by the third quarter had their heads hung low.

And, last FSU went into Utah and serve noticed that they were still a team to be reckon with and that they still had to the horses to beat a good team. They lost it all against South Florida. South Florida out played them at every position...even at QB with a freshman making his first collegiate start who just happens to be from Tallahasse. The Seminole defense can't defend the pass. They have shown that over and over. They have no discipline to stay home and take care their assignments hence, the big play on them will continue to come. For a freshman QB to come in and steal the show is awful. And, Selvie and that South Florida defensive line played the game of their lives. Four turnovers didn't help FSU and they end their first four weeks at 2-2. Still time to salvage a good season but, I wouldn't bet on it.

And, Bobby Bowden...I listen to his press conference and that "shoot I reckon" tone needs to go. I can't stand it. And while I am a die heart gator fan I hate to see the Seminoles go down like this. Again, the game has past Bowden by and his self admittance that they "got beat...really took a whoopin" is no consolation to me and I am sure not to the Seminoles.

For the South Florida Bulls...great job. You seized the moment and made yourself relevant in the recruiting battle in the state of Florida. But, now my appreciation remains limited. You have started 4-0 the last four years and you have imploded by your own standards. Let's keep this on the up swing if you want consistent consideration. 

Scary Moment

This game turned ugly in the third quarter and Coach Meyer will be second guessed. Second guessed for having Tebow in the game with the score being 31-7. But, as fans if we questioned that we are saying that it would have been okay to have Brantley our second string QB, in the game and, okay for this to happen to him. To me to see a player on the ground motionless like that is tragic no matter who it is or what team he plays for.

And, to all the Kentucky fans that were busy celebrating the clean hit instead of going "oh my God" shame on you. In my opinion there is something innately wrong with your soul.
I have a very good friend who is a Kentucky fan and now they will be referred to as an ex friend. I am pretty sure I don't want to be associated with someone that didn't see that moment as a life moment and not a football moment. And, there maybe plenty others out there...just not in my circle.

As you can see the whole team came out to the feel to be around their leader. Tebow is just one of those guys that comes along once in a lifetime that you have to take noticed of...one of those guys that is real from day one. And, not that this is important to say but, I think the whole team would have been on that field no matter who was laying on it motionless. It was that tragic of a scene.

It has been argued that this is football and football is very physical. I think that all football fans know that and accept that. But, it still does not make one of these moments okay...doesn't make it an "oh well" moment.

It does look like he is going to be okay. Everyone is speculating on whether he will play in next game. But, I say a loss in the LSU game is excepted if Tebow is not ready. In the same breath too I say Brantley is up for the task.  Some how though, I don't feel you will be able to hold him out of the next one.

And, to all the people that sent me a text saying what a scary moment and our prayers are with him...thank you. Those are the fans that I want to associate myself with.

Recruiting

Word out of California (not Florida this time) is that Powell is a heavy lean toward Florida. His recent visit to The Swamp has folks in California worried that he will end up playing his college ball in the Sunshine State.


I always thought Powell would say all the right things about Florida early and perhaps even commit, but that he would swing back to USC in the end. But I doubt that will happen. Powell took his third visit to Florida on his own dime this past weekend, and he still has an official visit he can take to see the Gators. His relationship with Urban Meyer has become very strong.


With Victor Hampton gone from Florida's 2010 class, there is a need for another cornerback in Gainesville. Two prospects have emerged, Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas' Cody Riggs and Palmdale (Calif.) High's Joshua Shaw. Riggs seems much more likely to end up in Gainesville.


Riggs, who once favored Notre Dame, now seems to be a lean to the Gators, followed by Tennessee and Georgia. As for Shaw, he is rumored to be a silent commitment to Ohio State and also is interested in USC. Shaw was impressed with Gainesville on his visit this past weekend, but it will be hard to beat out the Buckeyes and Trojans.


Florida will try to stay in the mix for Manning (S.C.) High' John Fulton, Aquinas' Lamarcus Joyner and Tampa Hillsborough's Terrence Mitchell, but they are on the outside looking in for each.


Georgia would love to swing Pahokee (Fla.) High's Chris Dunkley from the grips of the Gators (or Tennessee, depending upon who you talk to), and they will give it their all when he visits for the LSU game on Oct. 3.


Top 2011 defensive end Curt Maggitt of Palm Beach Gardens (Fla.) Dwyer likes Florida, West Virginia and Miami a lot, and now Tennessee is making a push to get more involved.


His relationship with Gators defensive line coach Dan McCarney is an interesting one because Maggitt's brother plays at Iowa State and McCarney used to coach in Ames, so there already is a connection. But don't discount West Virginia. Dwyer teammate Robert Clark is committed to the Mountaineers and five-star safety Matt Elam, a Florida commit, visited WVU with Clark two weeks ago.


Elam and four-star tight end Gerald Christian are still committed to Florida, so that's a big deal to Maggitt, who is close friends with another 2011 Dwyer star, tight end Nick O'Leary. Maggitt and O'Leary - Jack Nicklaus' grandson - might want to play together in college, so that could be something to watch for after this season.

A person close to top-rated inside linebacker Jeff Luc of Port St. Lucie (Fla.) Treasure Coast said the five-star recruit wants to make a decision soon but is more concerned with the defensive scheme at each program recruiting him now more than ever. If Luc ends up with Florida, defensive coordinator Charlie Strong is going to be the main reason. A source said while Luc was in Gainesville for the Florida-Tennessee game, Strong sat down with Luc and diagrammed how he would be used at middle 'backer and how he could start early if he picks up the defense well in practice. Rumors that Luc is a lock to Florida State or Miami or anywhere at this point aren't true, but the 'Noles still are rumored to be the team to beat. Luc would like to make a decision soon because the process has been hectic.

Florida may have emerged as the team to beat for linebacker Jordan Hicks of West Chester (Ohio) Lakota West, although I still think Ohio State will be tough to beat. Hicks likes the SEC style of play for linebackers, loved his unofficial visit this past weekend and plans to return to Gainesville for an official visit later this season. With an official set with Texas and one already taken to Ohio State, if Hicks does take an official to Florida that means Georgia, Alabama or USC will be out of luck unless he decides to take yet another long unofficial trip. Ohio State, Texas and now Florida are mentioned the most by sources when it comes to Hicks, and it was in that order before his recent trip to Gainesville. Now Florida is right up near the top.

There were rumors that Sharrif Floyd had committed to Florida on his official visit this weekend, but that has proven to be false. Still, the Gators made a strong impression and likely moved ahead of South Carolina. In fact, one source said that if Floyd heads to the SEC, it most surely will be to Florida.

Coach Meyer's Press Conference

I watched the press conference of Coach Meyer and this is his account of what happen when he went out to see Tebow....

"I grab his hand and he grabbed mind. I ask, "how you doin," and he said, "good." He said, did I hold on the ball? And, I said, "yes."

He ask what play was that? And, I said. "stick lion,' I then said, "it's great to be a Florida Gator, and Tim said, "it's great to be Gator."

Its good to know that it may just be a concussion and no more. Good to know that he never lost consciousness and that he was fully aware of what happen.

Gatornation can breathe just a little bit.

We Regret To Inform You That Your Team Was Embarassed Because They Were Stupid

I found this write up by a Kentucky fan. Considering how my heart goes out to Tebow right now I couldn't have said this any better....thank you Kentucky fan whoever you are. I don't think your fellow fans can argue much with one of their own...

by Truzenzuzex on Sea of Blue Nation

 

Well, that and the fact that the second string of Florida could have handled Kentucky by at least two touchdowns, especially with 9 penalties for 69 yards.  That would make a nice rushing stat for any halfback.

Congratulations to Florida for an impressive win.  They dominated UK's hapless team from start to finish in every meaningful statistic.  They were far, far superior.  Enough said.
Sugar coating this thrashing is worthless.   UK was utterly inferior in every meaningful way against Florida.  Not only athletically, and talent-wise, but with respect to execution.  This was undoubtedly the worst game I have watched UK play since the 63-3 thrashing by this same team last year, and execution-wise, it may have been even worse.

To be fair, nobody, including yours truly, thought UK had a chance against Florida.  Florida has more five-star players on their team right now that Kentucky has had in the last 20 years combined.  Yes, UK is not as inferior as they have been in the past, but you never would have known it tonight.  After holding Florida to a field goal with a dramatic stand on their first possession, Kentucky self-destructed very much like they did last year at The Swamp, including yet another blocked punt for a Florida touchdown.  Second verse, same as the first.

I really don't feel like trashing Kentucky too much for this game, it's too much like kicking a helpless person when they are down.  It was a loss from the moment the coin went up.  The Wildcats were nervous, and even a little scared, and it showed.  Florida just took our manhood.

I really do wonder what Brooks has left to work with after this devastation.  If anything, this loss was worse than the one last year, even if the score was not as lopsided.  It isn't that Kentucky is really bad, it's just that they don't seem to have any identity on offense.  Defensively, UK was unable to handle the faster Gators, and Tim Tebow simply ran amok until a naked blitz sent him out of the game.  Hopefully, he has no serious injuries.  It's bad enough to lose to Florida, but it would be miserable to have seriously wounded Superman.

In the end, this game was pure misery from start to finish.  It reminded me very much of the basketball game we played at South Carolina last year -- embarrassing, season-damaging, and irredeemable.  If Brooks & Co. thought that we were ready to compete in the SEC, this game should disabuse them of that fallacious notion.

With Alabama coming in next week followed by a road trip that takes us through Columbia and Athens, there is not much reason for optimism anytime soon in the Big Blue Nation.  Kentucky was either exposed tonight for the frauds that they are, or just had one of those really bad performances that sometimes happens even to the best football teams.

I wish I could believe the latter.

Sea of Blue In Kentucky

Bruce Pearl Apologizes

Tennessee men's basketball coach Bruce Pearl said he told an inappropriate, off-the-cuff joke at a charity fundraiser Thursday morning and issued an apology in the afternoon.


Pearl, one of the featured speakers at a TVA charity kickoff, was making light of the different types of players from different cultures when he said the following:

"I've got a tough job. I've got to put these guys from different worlds together, right? I've got guys from Chicago, Detroit ... I'm talking about the 'hood! And I've got guys from Grainger County, where they wear the hood.''


Knoxville's WBIR was one of the television stations on hand for the event, and aired a tape of Pearl's comments, and put it on its Web site.

Pearl released the following statement:
"This morning while speaking at a private kick-off event for a great organization that benefits many local charities, I made a statement in jest to describe the diverse group our staff recruits year-in and year-out.


"Unfortunately while I was trying to excite the crowd and encourage employees to give, I made an inappropriate joke. I certainly did not intend to offend anyone and I apologize to everyone, especially the people of Grainger County.

"In no way am I trying to justify what I said, but I'm disappointed that the focus has been placed on me rather than the charities I was there to help. My only hope is that the visibility of this mistake will encourage those who can to give to those in need during these difficult times.''

Note: as reported on Vol Nation

New York Knicks Sign David Lee

Former Gator David Lee gets a one year $8.0 million contract. It was not what Lee was seeking but, it seems to be the best of what he was going to get.

Lee wanted a multi-year deal but, we all know the Knicks are trying to save all their salary cap for next summer. They want the ability to shop for some of the best free agents in NBA History.


The Knicks though were not required to offer more than $3 million for a one year so, consider them a class act for showing appreciation for all that Lee did last year.

Go Gators David Lee!!!

Stacey Poole Commits to Kentucky

I am too young to remember his dad playing for Florida but from what I hear he was good. Now his son is ranked 51st in the nation and has committed to the Kentucky Wildcats.

I don't know what Billy Donovans' take on this is. But, I know that his parents felt they didn't get the love from the University of Florida and staff that they wanted. And, if that is remotely true...then shame on our program.

A good pick up for the Wildcats even if it just makes the statement that the Wildcats are the program to beat in recruiting in SEC Basketball.

Other than that, no hard feelings Stacey. A young recruit needs to make the best decision for his future. And, what Stacey said is so many words by the commit is, he sees himself being more comfortable in Lexingtion than he does in the city he grew up around.

Good luck to you....

Gator Recruit Still Getting Attention

Solomon Patton is a WR out of Alabama that has committed to the Gators. He could not make the game on Saturday because his high school team had a game. Here is his account of what happen after the game. Found this story on a Gator message board. Good ole Kiffin!!

"It was crazy because I was at work and a number called me from out of town and I answered," he started. "You wouldn't believe who it was?"

Ummmmmm was it Lane Kiffin, I asked? "Yeah," Patton said with a big laugh of disbelief.

"He called me and and Lance Thompson called and they just passed the phone around. I was trying to explain to them I was at work. They were telling me all this mess that they want me to come check it out and they will keep it on the down low and not tell anyone. I just told them that I am already committed to Florida and am sold on Florida and that is where I really want to go."

"I said would come check them out if I wasn't committed, but I am committed. All my feelings are towards Florida, I don't have any thoughts with any other school.

"As soon as I got off the phone I called Coach G," Patton said. "(Gonzales) said, 'Next time just tell them I am fully committed to Florida and that's where I want to play.' Coach Meyer told me, 'Next time Kiffin calls, tell him I said hello'."

Patton laughed at the awkwardness of the situation. Although out of state schools have been on him, LSU has been in contact too, the in-state schools in Alabama have shied away it seems. Auburn did more than that.

"Alabama, I haven't heard from them in a while," Patton said. "Auburn stopped fooling with me. When they came down here there was a big mess. Before I committed, I talked to the coach that recruited down here and he was basically talking trash to me. They told me they have two receivers already committed and they have a third that was committing sometime this week. I didn't worry about it and told my coach...and the (Auburn) assistant and my coach got into it. That assistant said some crazy stuff and my coach doesn't play. I don't talk to them and they don't send any mail or anything."

Tennessee Coach Tears Sign From Fans' Hand

Tennessee Coach shows a little class ripping sign down or lack thereof. I personally thought it was David Reaves, son of gator great John Reaves. But, I could be mistaken. Even, Princesses are wrong sometimes. Anyway, found this video on you tube...help me out if you know which one it is.

College Football Predictions: Week 4

Miami V Va Tech
Has to be the match-up of the week. I just can't see going against the Hurricanes and I truly can't believe I am saying that. But, to say Miami had a chance to beat FSU, Ga Tech, Va Tech, and then Oklahoma would have been crazy. But, now I think they can do it. Even if they come out of this stretch with a 3-1 record you would have to say they are the team to beat in the ACC and contender for the BCS. Who else could they lose to? Va Tech struggled against Nebraska and had to win on the last play. I see Tyrod having to run for his life against the speed of the Hurricanes. And, I see OC Whipple calling another good game against a very stout defense by the Hokies.


Florida v Kentucky
Trap game for the Gators. Kentucky is no slouch. And, their DB Lindley is headed to the NFL. Also, the use of Randall Cobb has made a difference on offense. I don't think the Gators should go in feeling they have a lot to prove. I do think though that they have more play makers on defense and they should be able to hold them to 14 points or less. I do see Coach Meyer getting more players involved on offense. Red shirt freshman Ormarius Hines comes to mind and being a go to at receiver. Special teams will be key just as last year. I look for Brandon James to be a difference maker in this one and give the offense great field position. If that holds true then the Gators will have a good day.

Alabama v Arkansas
No contest. If Arkansas can't hold Georgia's offense they won't be able to hold the TIde. This will be the first game that Ryan Mallet sees pressure every down he is out there. McElroy for Bama has settled in at QB and the running game has plenty of options...and, we haven't even talked about their prized receiver Julio Jones. This could be total domination by the TIde and if that is true...look for a lot more first place votes to start heading to Tuscaloosa.

Ole Miss v South Carolina...(thurs night game)
Ole Miss has not played like a top 5 team...for that matter Florida has not played like a #1 team. But, if Garcia is consistent in this one the Gamecocks have a chance to take it. Jevan Snead has not looked good and Carolina has a defense that can compete with anyone in the country. Maybe the difference will be South Carolina at home.

South Florida v FSU
If Grothe, QB South Florida had not gone down for the year with a torn ACL, I would say this would be competitive. But, FSU is riding high from their win against BYU and they now have the confidence they can win. At home I think it's a runaway for FSU.

First Heisman Poll of 2009

Tebow leads the first poll of the season....he received 5 of the 10 first place votes. This poll has been done by a publication that has made it a practice of predicting the winner. They missed it in 1987 when they predicted McPherson of Syracuse over eventual winner Tim Brown of Notre Dame. They also got it wrong last year when they predicted Colt McCoy over eventual winner Sam Bradford. But, if this poll holds true, history will be made and Tebow will join Archie Griffin as the only two time winner.

I personally think Tebow has a long way to go. And, this is probably a popularity vote of some sorts by the publication. If I had a Heisman vote at this juncture of the season it would be hard not to give it to Jahvid Best. Some others that should get a lot of consideration are Jacory Harris and Case Keenum. Luckily the vote is way off and Tebow still has time in my mind to have better performances.

What does seem to hold true more often than not is the Heisman Winner does not go on to win it's Bowl game or National Championship Game. If I had my pick....I would rather see Tebow with the crystal ball instead of the bronze statute.

Here is the early breakdown:

1. Tim Tebow, QB, Florida, 24 carries, 76 yards, TD run, 14-of-19, 115 yards passing, int., 42 (5)
2. Jahvid Best, RB, California, 26 carries, 131 yards, 5 TDs, 29 (3)
3. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas, 24-of-34 passing, 205 yards, TD, 2 ints., 23, (1)
4. Jacory Harris, QB, Miami, 20-of-25 passing, 270 yards, 3 TDs, 13
5. Case Keenum, QB, Houston, Did not play

Game Day in Pictures

NFL's Best Performances of Week 2

Sad Day for Gatornation As Bull Gator's Plane Crash In Everglades

The Nation of Gators are sad today. As the story unfolds of Bruce and Karen Barber everyone is still in shock. This is one of the first families in Gatornation....first families of all Gator Boosters.

 

On Sunday after spending time with friends the Barbers, a close Bull Gator, and their oldest son departed from Gainesville headed back to South Florida. Their plane went down in the Everglades early evening. Their daughter Cloe who will be nine soon was left behind in South Florida with friends and family.

 

Bruce and Karen are permanent fixtures for all gator events and they are one of the nicest couples around. They were in town for a fundraiser for Charlie Crist and of course to watch the Tennessee game.

 

This is a devastating feeling to all that know the family...broke bread with the family...and loved the family.

 

As of Monday only one of them were found.

 

RIP Barber Family....I love you all...

Fantasy Football Week 2

ESPN Leagues
Free Safety 1-1
NY Giants 1-1
Atlanta Champions 1-1
Dolphins 1-1
Tampa Bay 1-1

Yahoo Leagues
Florida Gators 2-0
Gaturs 1-1

NFL.com
Jaguars 0-2
Buzz Football Div 2-0

Not a good week....none of my key players had a good week.

Second Violation in UK Basketball Gets Staff Member Fired...and I have some swamp land I want to sell you...lol!

We all know there is more to this story. But, UK Basketball finally admits Bilal Batley. a basketball staff member no longer works for the program. Now, they stated in article this assistant of basketball operations was let go for shagging rebounds for a player this summer. Which at most is a secondary violations...which Coaches turn themselves in for all the time. But, this guy worked for Kelvin Sampson at two different programs...and the word in Lexington is he was really let go for make excessive calls to recruits. Good job Calipari for at least cleaning up the problem. This story has been swirling around in local area for some time but, obviously they couldn't keep it in house forever. Here are some comments from the Herald:

Nickey wrote on 09/16/2009 09:17:39 AM:

I bleed blue but I am afraid that the old saying that "you can judge a person by the people that he keeps around him" is coming true. Coach Cal is a good coach and a great recruiter but I am beginning to dread the future of the UK program. We should have learned from Eddie S. before he went back to OK. and we had to hire Rick to save us.

r.

visalinc wrote on 09/15/2009 04:41:47 PM:

Rules are made for a reason and are not to be broken. Granted, the NCAA has some stupid rules; nevertheless, they are not to be broken. The UK President and Athletic Director had better keep all four eyes wide open and constantly on Calipari. As others have said, It didn't take long. REMEMBER, YOU CAN TAKE THE BOY OUT OF THE COUNTRY BUT YOU CAN'T TAKE COUNTRY OUT OF THE BOY. I still miss Tubby.

fbarn wrote on 09/15/2009 04:02:05 PM:

Some of you think that if you CHEAT!!!!! just a little it is ok. Don't blame the media, blame the CHEATING!!!!! coach UK hired. This was serious enough that the man was fired. Get use to it, this will not be the last you hear about CHEATING. This guy has CHEATED every place he has been.

CardsFan25 wrote on 09/15/2009 02:48:43 PM:

The cats better hang those presumptuous banners with Velcro!!!! And you terds are idiots if you think he just happened to go into the gym where a player(s) happened to be shooting around and he was JUST shagging balls. Only in the big blue nation is being naive the law!!!

feedmenews wrote on 09/15/2009 12:43:37 PM:

Way to go coach Cal, you have successfully warranted the NCAA looking into infractions before the basketball season starts. Keep this up and maybe before UK wins a NCAA championship your team will be ruled ineligible before said win, unlike your previous two schools who had theirs taken back after it was won.

sirflavius wrote on 09/15/2009 12:42:57 PM:

Uh, might not want to be hiring guys that worked for Kelvin Sampson, Cal!!! Last time I checked, he was one of the biggest cheaters in NCAA history...not a good pedigree to be chosing from. Please be smarter than that, Cal. On the other hand, is there no end to the stupidity of the NCAA rule book?

Pouncey Takes Home SEC Honors

Maurkice Pouncey was named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week. He helped the Gators rush for over 200 yards while the defense held Tennessee to 117 yards rushing. This is the third straight week that a Gator has taken SEC honors.

The Good Ole Kentucky Wildcat Fans

They are still coming by my site...thanks for the hits guys. Let's just get right to it....some of your fans are rude and misguided. You can't even have a debate about sports without being malicious. But, it's Kentucky, what else should we expect? Here are some thoughts and questions for ya..

Your treatment of your own coach is suspect. Why can't he send a jersey to the President...hmmm? I would venture to say guys that the majority of your supposed Final Four team are Obama supporters. What if they all wore Obama shirts to practice? Would you want to cheer for them then?

Let me take this further...you will never go anywhere in Kentucky Basketball without recruiting black athletes. The last time you guys tried that you got your brains beat out by Texas Western. It was so good they made a movie out of it.

But, these same black athletes of yours (your four and five stars) if you saw them on the street you would clutch your wallet because of your perceived view....you just tolerate them when they wear Kentucky Blue.

I would also venture to say that most African Americans are proud of their President. But, would you have voted for Jack "Goose" Givens, Kenny "Sky" Walker, or Sam Bowie? You screamed your lungs out when they played for you and said, "go big blue." Don't be fooled fellows those players are huge Obama supporters.

I also say if Joe Hall had any balls to play Dickey Beal and Dirk Minniefield in the same backcourt instead of Jim Masters, who couldn't play dead in a cowboy movie, who was only a standing shooter, and could not dribble or defend you would have won in 1984 in Seattle.

I want more than anything though to remind you the President says, "he won." Hell, we won!!!

With record numbers going to the polls and 53% of Americans of all cultures said this is our choice. This is the one who we want to lead us into change. Maybe you would try listening to Laura Bush, "people should respect the office of President." Nope, not going to happen in Kentucky Laura...

Here are some comments from a Kentucky message board:

eleazar wrote on 09/04/2009 10:59:55 PM:

To give a communist athiest liar that I ddn't vote for a uk shirt is sickening to my stomach.

philip50 wrote on 09/04/2009 10:27:06 PM:

WOW! There are some really hateful, close-minded people in this world. Even a few in Kentucky! Fortunately, I believe they are in the minority; they are just vocal.

I don't care if you are a Bush-basher or Obama-basher, grow up. Coach Cal is a class act. Many of the comments on here are a disservice to him as well as to our state and our country.

We have a right to disagree with Obama without being called racist, but we must do it responsibly. And to all who still suffer from Bush-Derangement-Syndrome, your irrational hatred is harmful to your country and to the office of the president, regardless of who occupies it.

thirdand4_2ydpass wrote on 09/04/2009 10:21:49 PM:

"Another fan suggested that Sarah Palin would look good in the shirt"

Yes lets send a jersey to every failure that cant even govern moose country without stepping down in disgrace.

Maybe it would allow us a foothold into that fertile recruiting ground that produced the alaskan assassin...

WildcatFanEastKY wrote on 09/04/2009 09:51:59 PM:

To get angry over your coach giving the leader of the free world elected by a huge majority is just being a sore loser and a moron. I guess if the CATS win the title the shouldnt take the usual trip to the white house. I bet if he sent one to Reagan whos entire presidential legacy is myth considering he never really did anything but entrench wall st, sell out to lobbyist and break campaign promises this would make those idiots on the fringe happy. It amazes me that these morons who are in the supreme minority which the election showed some how dominate the political conversation its sad really. Anyway GO COACH CAL!! Way to keep UK basketball in the forefront all the way to the white house! GO BIG BLUE!!

Recommend (2) Report abuse

KentuckyRose wrote on 09/04/2009 09:09:16 PM:

I do not see where Calipari's political affiliation is anyone's business. That is his own personal constitutional right. That's what our soldiers fight and die for so we can have freedom to make choices. Leave him alone!

jgover wrote on 09/04/2009 08:43:27 PM:

I am never surprised at the profound ignorance of Kentuckians.

I couldn't have said it better guys....Go Gators!!!

College Football Rankings To Start Wk 4....

1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. Ole Miss
5. Penn State
6. California
7. LSU
8. Boise State
9. Miami
10, Oklahoma


Florida and Texas I thought played uninspired ball....Tebow and Colt struggle at points in the game. Alabama played North Texas their second straight scrimmage after proving themselves very worthy against Va Tech. Ole Miss had a scrimmage too. It's time to look out for Penn State. They were in this position last year til the lost to Iowa in the waining seconds. Cal looks very strong and has the best player in the nation right now. LSU still looks suspect. Boise scares me and should run the table. Miami in the top ten...wow. They have earn it though. And, then here comes Oklahoma creeping back into the mix of things. USC drops out of the top 10 and lands at #12.

Gator Game...Where do we go from here?

I had some time to think about the game now....and, I have heard from Gatornation all day but, have chosen not to answer all day too. Most are truly disappointed. It's true that Gator fans wanted blood and then some. But, what we got is a very formidable defense. A group of gators with 101 fever and our coaches being out coached by their coaches. Hence, I have heard that its a moral victory for them. Well, I guess I am glad to be 3-0 and they have the moral victory at 1-2.

It's time ot move on now. Nothing we can do to change the score.

We cannot have a letdown at Kentucky. The Wildcats will be inspired to have the #1 team in the land coming to Lexington.

Here are some things I hope to see from this game:

Hopefully Deonte Thompson back. Had two touchdowns in the Troy game and can really stretch the field.

Hernandez our TE used to create match-up problems. He was sick also and quarantined all week.

I would like to see us use Emmanuel Moody more. He is a power runner and can wear down any defense.

Rainey and Demps should be more effective. Although, Demps is sick right now and played the game very sick.

I would like to see us use Omarius Hines....he has a body like Anquan Bolden and I think he can create some seperation with smaller DBs

Our defense will be ready. We loss Spikes early in the game...he's in protective boot now and will be ready for the Kentucky game. Without him though...I thought our defense was still clutch in the red zone. I don't think they will have a problem with Hartline and company.

College Football Wk 3 Recap

This was definitely a heavyweight fight. And, I really just refuse to give Tenn and Kiffin anymore credit than that. But, our offense needs more work. Our defense needs more discipline...and hopefully we find that in Kentucky. I haven't watched one highlight of the game because I wanted a blowout...

What I learned about other teams this weekend is:

USC had no offense...and they are struggling to find a QB. I predicted this one....but, at least they loss early. You gotta give the coaching staff at Washington credit...they are bringing a new attitude to Huskie land.

Georgia has some offense and Joe Cox has an arm and they can make plays but, they cannot stop anybody on defense. They have given up some serious points. Arkansas can sling it too...but has no defense as well. Ryan Mallet a 6'7 QB for the Razorbacks will be a pro...

Texas took some time to find it's rhythm....but they did and avenge their loss to the Red Raiders. Jordan Shipley is the Longhorns saviour

Good job Florida State....the Seminoles proved that no matter how bad they look on this side of the Mississippi they still have to many athletes for the WAC or the MAC or where ever BYU is from.

Auburn has shown that it can compete with the big boys....they have put up some big offensive numbers.

Ohio State found it's groove. I wish they could have discovered it against USC. That program needs a signature win.

Notre Dame won't have a losing season but, they are playing people too close. I don't think they can outsling everyone. I do think however they have a good chance of beating USC this year.

It will be interesting to see what the Top Ten looks like this week.

This Is It!!!!

Percy Harvin Gets Help....

Interesting story for the Gator fan in us. It's no secret that I am a Percy Harvin fan too. I wish he could suit up against Tennessee this Saturday. But, this is also a story of interest to me because I was an Antonio Freeman fan and I like that he gave this receiver his time. It can only make the relaltionship between Harvin and Farve better.

As reported on pioneerpress.com

Before the University of Florida's Pro Day in March, agent Joel Segal solicited suggestions from several league "decision-makers" on what his client Percy Harvin could do to raise his draft stock.

Segal heard a universal answer.

"They told me because of his multi-dimensional abilities," Segal said, "to make sure he was a good route runner."

Segal had a singular solution.

"There was no finer route runner in his career than Antonio Freeman," Segal said. "Free was a technician."

A third-round draft pick of the Green Bay Packers in 1995, Freeman didn't possess prototype size or speed. But Freeman developed into Brett Favre's top target, catching 57 of the future hall of fame quarterback's NFL-record 464 touchdown passes. Freeman endeared himself to Favre with his reliable hands and precise route running.

When his longtime agent broached the idea of coaching Harvin, Freeman was intrigued but concerned.

"I figured he'd have the diva personality," Freeman said of Harvin, whom the Vikings selected with the 22nd overall pick in the 2009 NFL draft. "I watched the kid (at Florida). He's explosive and exciting.

"Sometimes it's harder for an older guy to have a credible relationship with a younger guy. For younger guys, when they get so much money so soon, a lot of reasoning goes out the window. They figure money is power, and power is knowledge, so they might not listen to the wisdom that an older guy has to offer."

But in their first meeting, Harvin charmed Freeman, a one-time Pro Bowl and Super Bowl champion. Harvin was humble and polite.

For five hours a day, over five consecutive days, Freeman put Harvin through a route-running clinic, providing the young receiver with an insider's perspective on the age-old route stem. The focus wasn't on catching balls or building his explosiveness.

Freeman hammered home to Harvin the importance of steps, so that each of his routes looked the same.

"It wasn't a weakness for him, but it was something he could get away with in college, because he was the fastest guy on the football field," Freeman said of Harvin. "He was a good route runner for the college game, but it wasn't good enough for the pro game. It was average."

Harvin had a tendency to take what Freeman called "pitter-patter steps," short, choppy ones that give savvy cornerbacks a tell that a cut is coming.

"A lot of corners are smart, so if you start sticking, they know the breaks," Harvin said. "I had to work on speed cuts. That was one thing, getting out of that habit."

Yet Harvin's athleticism reared itself early in those workouts with Freeman.

He was getting to spots too quickly. Running the same route, Freeman needed seven steps to get to a mark that Harvin got to in six.

"I wasn't the fastest. I wasn't the quickest. But I got separation during my route, which allowed me to get yards after the catch," Freeman said. "But Percy's a freak. You take a guy with his ability, and teach him to be a route runner, and not rush, and his potential is limitless."

Freeman also schooled Harvin on not tipping off defenders with his hands or hips.

"If my body is about to come to a stop in two or three yards, that defender will jump the route," Freeman said. "You have to make all the routes look the same."

Freeman was impressed with Harvin's work ethic, especially when the rookie finished his voluntary homework: practicing his steps at home, with the help of family and friends.

"He said friends were laughing and he looked crazy doing it," Freeman said. "But it was on his mind."

A Washington Redskins analyst for Comcast Sports, Freeman also co-founded Onlyplayers.com, a social and business network Web site for professional athletes. But after his experience with Harvin, Freeman said he is open to tutoring other young receivers and may even develop his own receivers camp.

Freeman said he is proud that he had a "finger" in Harvin's successful start with the Vikings.

"I remember sitting on my couch, when I heard about (how well he performed during) his Pro Day," Freeman said. "I jumped through the ceiling, like I had something to do with it."

Big Weekend For Recruits

This is a big game for Florida. And, needless to say I don't think the Vols are just going to roll over. I just think the Gators have too much talent to lose.

Where I do think the Vols and Gators are evenly matched is on the recruiting trail. After their UCLA loss last week Tennessee picked up three commits. I am hoping to get the same result the Vols had from this game. This will be a big time atmosphere,

Florida has 30 recruits coming into this one. Ronald Powell #4 in the nation and Shariff Floyd #7 in the nation overall will headline this weekend.

Some were on hand for Summer Drills and Camps....but, it's nothing like game weekend. All 30 will be in this evening and hang out with the players tonight. Parents will get a chance to spend time with some of the coaches....

Tomorrow, as Gator Walk starts and those buses with the Gators roll up at 1:30pm everyone will have chills whether you are a Gator or not. And, these recruits will get to see it.

To top it off with such a rivalry game will give the recruits a chance to see big time SEC Football.

Percy Harvin, Jeff Demps, Will Hill, Joe Haden, Tim Tebow are just a few who attended this game and committed not too long afterwards....

Here is a report from RIvals on a list of players that will be in attendance...officially and unofficially...

There are three five-star rated prospects visiting the Swamp unofficially on Saturday. They are linebacker Jeff Luc, defensive end Ronald Powell and linebacker Jordan Hicks.

The Gators have to feel especially good about getting Powell to come across country yet again on his own dime while saving his official visit for later in the year.

Other Rivals100 members due in are receiver Chris Dunkley, lineman Chaz Green, linebacker Christian Jones and athlete Christian Green.

There are a couple of other Rivals250 members visiting as well. Included in that group are receiver Quinton Dunbar, lineman Jawuan James, lineman Brandon Linder and defensive end Lynden Trail.

Some of the top 2011 prospects on the board will be on hand to watch the game. Names to watch for include defensive lineman Ray Drew, wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin, defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan, linebacker A.J. Johnson, safety James Vaughters, cornerback Nick Waisome, athlete Sammy Watkins, linebacker James Wilder Jr., safety Wayne Lyons and athlete Javares McRoy.

Go Gators!!!

Fantasy Concerns

1. Do I start Fred Jackson against TB at home or Marion Barber against NYG at home?

2. With Devery Henderson, Louis Murphy, DeSean Jackon, and Calvin Johnson who is the odd man out this week?

3. Should Cedric Benson get a start from me?

4. Do I really start Percy Harvin and Louis Murphy at the same time? Percy is against the Lions and Louis is against the Chiefs.

5. Do you think Greg Olsen will get more balls now that Desmond Clark is hurt at TE for Chicago?

6. Would you drop Chad Pennington for Mark Sanchez or is it to early?

7. Should I pick up Ben Watson and let go Visanthe Shiancoe? (what a name by the way

The Real Vince Young

I have been a fan of Vince Young since his Texas days. He was my hero for taking down the mighty Trojans with Bush and Leinart. Needless to say I am not please that he is on the bench on Tennessee. I keep thinking Kerry Collins is going to slip and have a rash of interceptions that's going to land him on the bench and hence, give Young another shot.

I refuse to believe like I hear from my brothers that he is some head case. I am not going to buy into that.

I also refuse to believe that he can't succeed at the position. I still think he can lead a team.

But, here's a story that broke on ESPN that makes me love him even more. Makes me want to cheer for him even harder.

He made a promise to be involved in the McNairs' sons lives shortly after the funeral. And, I think all my blog readers know how I feel about the McNair story. I won't re-hash that. But, to have Vince hold true to his promise and be a fill in for these young men is awesome...powerful....so here is the story:

Young surprised 11-year-old Trenton and 5-year-old Tyler on Wednesday by showing up at their house and taking them to their school's "Dear Dads Breakfast" at a local restaurant

Those are my boys," Young told the Tennessean. "I wouldn't say it was to pay anyone back; it was just out of love. Steve would do it for me. He pretty much did it for me when I was growing up. I have a history with the boys and I want to do anything I can. I am their big brother."

Julie Dilworth, admissions director at St. Paul Christian Academy, lauded Young's actions.
"It was a great, great gesture," Dilworth told the Tennessean. "All the kids had been talking about the dads' breakfast and [Trenton and Tyler] were wondering what was going to happen with them.
"They were thrilled ... the boys came to school with huge smiles on their faces."
Young had a close relationship with Steve McNair, even before the latter was drafted by the Titans four years ago. He attended McNair's football camps when he was young. McNair was shot and killed July 4.
Besides being there for McNair's sons, Young gave other kids at the school jerseys and autographs.
"It was a surprise, and just to see the excitement on their faces, it's a great feeling," Young told the Tennessean. "We had a good time eating pancakes. I had an omelet.
"Overall they are doing cool, doing good. Just talking to their mom, I think they are going to be all right. I am always going to be here for them, always."