Mets Finishing Strong! In the Loss Column...

Why on Earth Did I Come Back for This?
Photo via Daily News

The Mets season of suckitude has been in full swing for quite some time now. Long since I checked myself into and out of rehab back in June, the Mets have continued to punish their fans. The only difference: I haven't been watching. Really, I've been more casually observing via the Internet and newspaper box scores. It's much better that way. Even from that vantage point, it's been clear that more recently the Mets have fallen even deeper into the abyss of embarrassment. I had a thought things might take a slight turn to the positive when Carlos Beltran returned to the lineup. Survey says? WRONG.

The Flushing crew has gone from underachivers finding creative ways to lose to a popular punchline. As any Mets fan can attest, it goes far beyond injuries and crappy luck. All of that is nicely paired with dropped pop ups, failing to run out balls, errant throws and grounders through the wickets. But that's all old news! Things must've turned at least a bit with Beltran in the lineup. Oh yes, I've already mentioned it didn't. How bad is it?

Since Beltran's return on September 8th (acknowledging he has not played every game since), the Mets have finished off September smoking, going 5-17 over that stretch. Over the three-week span, they managed to win a single series. More impressively, the mighty Metros showed the special kind of grit, determination and pride needed to be swept four times. Think about that...swept four times in a ostensibly a three-week stretch. That is POWERFUL.

Curiuos? Sure, I am too. Let's click 'em off:

September 8, 9 and 10 to Florida @ Citi
September 15, 16 and 17 in Atlanta
September 21, 22 and 23 to those Bravos @ Citi (and people wonder how Atlanta is hanging around)
September 28, 29 and 30 @ Washington!

Tonight's sweep at the hands of the Nationals was particularly special as K-Rod came in and surrendered five runs in the 9th. Now, that's shutting the door. It's OK, though. It's not as if they threw the game away the night before too. Ohhh...

I get to say my official goodbye to the Metros in-person on Friday. I can't wait. I'll miss the 2009 Mets so...

Declaring My AL Allegiance: Here We Go Tigers, Here We Go...

I bleed orange-and-blue in terms of my diamond allegiances. Mets orange-and-blue. It runs deep. DEEP. If you're here, chances are you know this already. Beyond that group of not-so-lovable losers, I really don't exhaust much energy rooting for anyone else -- except for whomever is playing the Yanks (that's a given). At the end of August, I declared my support of the Rockies in their pursuit of the NL pennant. Now, as I'm sure you've awaited with eager anticipation, I pledge my AL loyalties to...the Detroit Tigers.

Facing a pivotal series against the Twinkies (set to begin with a double-dip tomorrow after tonight's rainout), the Tigers are the only team in a divisional race. Should they prevail, my allegiance shall go with them. Why, you may ask? Before you question, tell me who else is more deserving of the unaffiliated fan's backing. The Sawx? Been there, done that. The Halos? OK, I like Scoiscia too. But...you ready for me to play the card? Do you want me to throw it? OK, you asked for it.

America, this is DEE-TROIT. This is a city in rough shape. I'll spare the script, but let's just say your average down-on-your-luck U.S. city doesn't get a TIME magazine cover story, let alone a dedicated year-long series. My brother-in-law grew up outside Detroit and has shown and told me the tales that are sure to pepper TIME. It's agonizing. No matter the reasons it shouldn't have come to this.

Would a World Series turn around a downtown that likely needs decades not days to climb back to some semblance of its former self? Absolutely not. Could it lift some spirits for a short time? I'm guessing yes, and, hell, that's a good enough reason for me to jump on the Tigers bandwagon. Besides, let's be honest, the Lions may have won a game, but they're still far from captivating anybody.

So, climb aboard the tourist fan bus to Motown. Need more reasons? Their manager is about as old-school as it gets - cussing, ripping butts in the dugout and calling out and sitting down players who dog it or show him up. Love Leyland. Love. Him. They're also young, energetic and feisty (or some word like that). Curtis Granderson is another reason. Fun, hard-working player, better dude. Verlander. Cabrera is a beast. Always liked Inge (dig guys who can adequately play multiple positions). Oh yes, they also have a guy named Fu-Te Ni. I just learned this today. Cool, right? How could you not be convinced?

That's all I have to say about that. Tigers-Rockies. Let's see it. Count me in. Sure, the networks (and most casual fans) want no part of such a match-up. F em. If you're a baseball fan, you're going to watch the World Series. Unless, you're a fan like me and the Phillies and Yanks play each other. In which case, I'll catch everyone at spring training in 2010. So, like I said, here we go Tigers, here we go. Clap. Clap.

Who Dey Think Gonna Beat Them Bengals?

For One Day at Least, The Steelers Can Kiss the Baby

It probably has something to do with "following" this squad through a month's worth of "Hard Knocks." I find myself pulling for Marvin Lewis, Palmer, and veterans like Coles and Roy Williams trying to make a go of it in a new locale. Following week one's debacle, you couldn't help but have even more sympathy for the apparently still-hapless Bungles. As Lee Corso might say, not so fast my friends.

Sure, it might be a complete abberation, but Cincy has managed to win its last two games at Lambeau against the Packers and home yesterday against their longtime rivals the Steelers respectively. Next week, Marvin's crew heads to Cleveland to face the Browns who look like...well, like the Bengals typically look.

Should Cincy come out of Cleveland with a win, it sets up a week five match-up of AFC North frontrunners in Baltimore. And if the Ravens stumble in Foxboro next Sunday (again, assuming Bengals over Brownies), it would be a battle of 3-1 teams with a chance for the Bengals to take control of the division outright. Whudda thunk it, right? One thing is certain -- the Ravens at M&T will be a real taste to show if Cincy is worth talking about this season.

Was this win over the Steelers a psychological turning point? The Cincinnati Enquirer asks that very question:

The Bengals beat the Steelers Sunday, 23-20, with a final drive
pretty enough to hang on a wall. Maybe it broke down some unseen, ever present, psychic barrier that has blocked this franchise’s path out of purgatory for a long time

Path out of purgatory. Makes you feel for their fans a bit. Maybe this is the first step towards the light. For now, at least, who dey think gonna beat dem Bengals?

My Saturday College Football Binge & 25 "Observations"

Kid's the Real Deal

Let me preface this by saying my wife is away with my mother and sister. Therefore, I had a certain level of viewing freedom today not typically afforded without extensive negotiation and deft use of DVR. In other words, I was able to absolutely obliterate myself on college football. Over the past 12 or 13 hours, I tuned in for various portions of all of the following based on my East Coast Time Warner Cable-enabled options:

Michigan vs. Indiana
Alabama vs. Arkansas
Va. Tech vs. Miami
Florida vs. Kentucky
Ohio St. vs. Illinois
Notre Dame vs. Purdue
Georgia vs. Arizona St.
Texas Tech vs. Houston
Penn St. vs. Iowa

Nine games. Even in my sloth days, such a showing would've been impressive. So, what did all this football teach me? Well, like everyone else, it probably only pounded home the notion that this year is going to be ridiculous again in college football. I won't use the "p" word, but it's there and increasingly apparent. Other than that, it's impossible not have observed a few things from inhaling all this gridiron goodness. OK, many things. Remembering them might be the larger challenge. Here we go:

1. I know big-time sports fans like me often believe we could get in the booth and call a better game than some of the schmucks doing so today. It's a bit smug and presumptuous. However, after listening to some of the broadcast teams today (*cough* ESPNU), I'm absolutely convinced I could (do a better job).

2. Staying in the booth for a minute...I actually don't mind Mike Patrick and Craig James, and it didn't hurt they had a great game to call. That said, is it me or are these guys the kings of asking each other rhetorical questions? You know what I'm saying?

3. I get it. Beamer Ball. Totally understand. Doesn't make it any less painful to watch.

4. The moment the U and Jacory stepped on that field in Blacksburg with the pouring rain there wasn't a chance in hell.

5. Is Colt McCoy going to back in to the Heisman? That's probably a little harsh, but the whole thing seems to be losing a little luster. Not that I care all that much.

6. If the Heisman is all about ridiculous hype, though, isn't it time Tony Pike and Casey Keenum's names start getting tossed about? I say, why not.

7. Did they stop teaching tackling in Pop Warner football sometime in the early 2000s? Is this part of the same conspiracy against base running fundamentals and free throw shooting? WTF?

8. I used to hate Jimmy Clausen. I hate him slightly less now. The last drive was impressive. Kid's a gamer, as they say.

9. Speaking of...watching those last few minutes of ND and the shots of Weis on the sideline was like watching somehow clinging to life on a respirator and waiting to see if that EKG was going to spike or flatline for good. Big Charlie was a few beats away...

10. Next time someone talks about Cal and a national title remind me about every year for the last few decades and instruct me to muzzle said person.

11. Yes, Tebow got rocked. Yes, I understand why it's news. Yes, it should be news. But does that mean we have to break down the number of times he booted on the cart as part of the bottom line updates?

12. Wanna hear a funny story...at the beginning of the year, some media folks were mentioning Daryll Clark and Heisman in the same sentence. Funny, right?

13. Kirk Ferentz is a pretty good coach apparently.

14. I'm not sure who's got less of their faculties left, Paterno or Holtz. Thinking JoePa...

15. Nick Saban seems like a real a-hole. A-holes make really good football coaches sometimes. This is one of those times.

16. Georgia is very average this year. But mediocre in the SEC is darn good. I think.

17. Tate Forcier is one of the more notable (most?) freshman I've watched this year. Remember those Rich Rod tears? Seems like forever ago...

18. I'm a big A.J. Green fan. Big. Huge. Boy be good.

19. Every team in the state of Florida is nasty -- except the Jags and Dolphins. USF with a freshman QB, huh? What exactly is FSU's deal?

20. Repeating the same question for Oregon, Cal, Ohio St. and half of the rest of the D-1. I still call it D-1. I will continue to call it D-1.

21. Bama, LSU, Florida, Texas and ??? USC? Cincy? Boise? Va Tech? Who's your top five? Does it even matter?

22. The refereeing in college football - if today was at all indicative - is absolutely friggin' atrocious. Really, really awful. Piss poor. Embarrassing. You get the point.

23. For all the crappy linebacker play, and despite their loss, I love the way Penn St. backers play. That whole Linebacker U. thing...yea, you can see why.

24. Is Kansas going to be the next product of the hype machine? Assuming they win their next two against Iowa St. and Colorado, I would say there's a good chance. That would put the Jayhawks at 6-0 heading into a home game against Oklahoma.

25. Best game of the day? Pitt and NC State saved the midday from being a complete disaster. Notre Dame and Purdue picked up some slack from the doldrums of Iowa and PSU. From start to finish, though, Texas Tech and Houston lived up to the billing and provided the most entertainment value.

Now, I must prepare myself for tomrrow (technically, today). Ahhh, football season is gloooorious.

Name that MLB Leader: Surprise(?) Edition

Test Your MLB Stat Geek Quotient...If You Dare

What it is, good people? With the kickoff of the football season and an abyssmal Mets team, my attention hath been deflected from the diamond. My apologies. I will re-engage come playoff time, but, for now, I can only concern myself with the occasional Baseball Tonight snippet and keeping up with the stats. Which brings us to our latest whuddathunk it-style rundown.

It's almost the end of the year, and while names like Pujols, Howard, Fielder, Greinke, Lincecum and Carpenter, are more-than-familiar (and expected) by now among the League's leaders, there are still quite a few surprises. To reiterate said fact, I took a stroll around the league leaderboards.

I tried to make these a bit challenging, while simultaneoulsy highlighting some of the facts that might not lend you to have these names on the tip of your tongue. Scores of 8-10 indicate a high degree of stat geekiness and the need to leave one's house and/or quit your fantasy league immediately. Without further delay, we'll start 'em off on the easier end...

#10 Mystery Stat/Man
I was an All-Star in my second year in the League...
I've slugged more than 40 home runs each of the the past five seasons...
I'm currently sixth in all of baseball with a .964 OPS behind only Pujols, Mauer, Fielder, Lee and Ramirez...

I am...

ADAM DUNN, WASHINGTON NATIONALS

#9 Mystery Stat/Man
I was the Rookie of the Year for the Pirates in 2004...
I made the All-Start team the following season...
This year I've already surpassed my career high in RBIs...
I'm currently 9th in the majors in home runs with 36 (also a career-high)...

I am...

JASON BAY, BOSTON RED SOX

#8 Mystery Stat/Man
I'm with my fifth team in 11 seasons with 103 career wins (20-over .500)...
I've been an All-Star in both leagues, as a Cub and Blue Jay...
My WHIP is the fourth-lowest in baseball, tied with Zach Greinke and Tim Lincecum...

I am...

TED LILLY, CHICAGO CUBS

#7 Mystery Stat/Man
I'm only 21 years old and in my second big league season...
I've recently been sidelined due to injury as my team looks to hold onto their division...
Opponents have a lower average against me (.200) than any other pitcher in baseball...

I am...

CLAYTON KERSHAW, LOS ANGELES DODGERS

#6 Mystery Stat/Man
I've started over 30 games for the past 1o seasons...
My highest win total (16) came in 2001 with the Expos...
I currently boast the fourth-most strikeouts (222) after Lincecum, Verlander and Greinke...

I am...

JAVIER VAZQUEZ, ATLANTA BRAVES

#5 Mystery Stat/Man
I began my career in pinstripes and have been known to occasionally rock a swell mustache...
After leaving the Bronx, I've wallowed in relative obscurity for two NL East teams...

I boast a .420 on-base percentage this season ranking me behind only Pujols and Mauer...

I am...

NICK JOHNSON, FLORIDA MARLINS

#4 Mystery Stat/Man
Before this season, my highest win total was 6 in 2008...
The last two seasons in the American League my ERA has been 5.77 and 5.29 respectively...

With 17 wins, I sit at 4th in the Majors and am still considered a contender (though an outsider) for the AL Cy Young...

I am...

SCOTT FELDMAN, TEXAS RANGERS

#3 Mystery Stat/Man
I made the AL All-Star team for the first time this year in my sixth season...
Last season, my squad made a surprise run in the postseason...
My .322 batting average ranks eighth in baseball...

I am...

JASON BARTLETT, TAMPA BAY RAYS

#2 Mystery Stat/Man
Prior to this season, I'd yet to play 100 games in any of my previous three years for Toronto...
I am the the pride of Muncie, IN...
My 106 RBI rank 8th in between Braun and Longoria...

I am...

ADAM LIND, TORONTO BLUE JAYS

#1 Mystery Stat/Man
My ERA in four seasons before the 2009 campaign was 5.67...
Prior to this year, I had never recorded a save...
I'm currently tied for 8th with 35 saves and a 2.03 ERA...

I am...

DAVID AARDSMA, SEATTLE MARINERS

15 Years After Hoop Dreams, More than a Game and LeBron

More than LeBron

On account of my job, I'm lucky enough to spend a good amount of time during the day thinking about and working on sports-related activities. It's rare you get to carry your passion to the workplace, and I don't take it for granted. As such, I also get the occasional chance to head to some cool events and meet and/or be exposed to interesting people in the world of sports. Tonight was one of those evenings.

A few hours ago I returned home from a special screening of "More than a Game," a documentary starring LeBron James and set to open in theaters on October 2nd. How the film and its filmmaker came to be standing on a stage introducing a film and project of which Interscope Records, Nike and Lionsgate are all a part is miraculous in and of itself. The film itself is also pretty solid. Here's a trailer to give you a taste (embed function of official trailers is disabled, so indulge the 30-second lead-in or skip ahead)

The two-minute clip doesn't doesn't do the documentary justice. And as the director noted during the intro, this is not really a film about LeBron James (although it is and it isn't). It tracks a team (St. Vincent-St. Mary), a city (Akron) and a dream (to win a national championship.) I won't break down the pros and cons of the whole deal, but it's definitely worth seeing for those that are fans of the game, the man (LBJ) and stories with happy endings. For someone like me, who also loves any chance to see more "raw" footage of what goes on beyond the court, field or arena and outside the spotlight of the game, it hit on all key criteria.

Most of all, though, this film took me right back to my high school days. Specifically, I couldn't help but think back to 1994 and my junior year in high school. Me and and a few buddies were outside another "fine arts" theater by my childhood home, anxiously waiting to get in to see a Sundance Film Festival winner called "Hoop Dreams."

That story tracked two players of lesser-prominence and the pursuit of their dreams to make the leap to the NBA through Chicago high school ball and college. Their stories follow a decidedly different path, but much of the feel and spirit around the documentaries is similar, though "Hoop Dreams" offers far more social commentary and a lot less warm-and-fuzzy.

Despite the differences, both documentaries offer a terrrific look into stories, people and experiences that I rarely have had a chance to see. And while they did so for very different reasons, each scored on the goosebump factor.

An outgoing HT to the still reigning champ of basketball moves in my book...

Biggest Hit of the Young Football Season?

I say it often. This is a one-man show these days (OK, for the past year or so) and things ain't changin' for awhile. There are a ton of other great sports blog out there who are cranking out money content. So, I thank all those for continuing to frequent The Legend. In the meantime, we wanted to call out a stellar new feature over at Busted Coverage, a fine sports (and stuff) blog that has shown us some link love countless times (for which we are forever indebted). The new concept over at BC asks...well, you can just read about it here.

More importantly, in theory, this feature will continue to produce fan-tabulous video clips of young Pop Warner-types getting lit the f up.



The crowd reaction gives makes this video that much more awesome. Follow the undulations from indifference to excitement to...it's almost ask if you could hear the silent narrative accompanying the entire clip.

That's right Johnny, try your hardest...

Oh, good move to go the other way...

Whoa, wait a second, you've got some room...

Run, Johnny, run...

Honey, he might have a...

SPLAT.

END.

Robert Henson: Why Don't You Sit This Next One Out, Stop Talking for a While

Perhaps He Should Stay Tied Up
Photo: Pablo Martinez Monivais/Associated Press

Maybe the Redskins should've kept rookie linebacker Robert Henson tied to that goalpost for a little while longer. At least that might have kept his fingers from Twittering nonsense while he was busy not playing football.

For those late to the party, Henson, a rookie linebacker for the 'Skins who's been inactive for the team's first two games this season, was none too pleased with the less-than-warm send off from the DC faithful following the Redskins rousing 9-7 triumph over the St. Louis Lambs at FedEx Field on Sunday. So, like any modern athlete with an Internet connection, Henson took to the only forum that allowed him complete freedom to pontificate in 140 characters or less. This was the result (from Henson Tweets):

"All you fake half hearted Skins fan can . . . I won't go there but I dislike you very strongly, don't come to Fed Ex to boo dim wits!!...The question is who are you to say you know what's best for the team and you work 9 to 5 at Mcdonalds."

Hmmm, where to begin? Unfortunately, it took awhile for Henson to stop Tweeting, but the damage was done. Plenty of folks have been killing him for the comments and deservedly so. There's a lot here to analyze, and you have that whole camp of fans who think booing is absolutely inexcusable regardless of the circumstances. I do not belong to that camp. As Fred Smoot commented: "I'd have booed us too. I felt like booing us, with that [bleep] we put out there. It was a win, but it was [bleep]." Exactly.

Worse than calling out fans for booing and being "fake" and "dim wits," Henson's jab at the 9-to-5 "McDonald's worker" puts this guy on our all-time I hope you fail miserably and sh*! away the opportunity you have that so few in the world can claim. Maybe it was just an innocent Tweet in the "heat of the moment," but it belies utter ignorance.

It insults a fan base that is among the most loyal in all of sports. It ignores the reality that many hard-working fans are finding it tougher and tougher to pay the bills, let alone shell out the money for tickets. And, finally, it lambasts the very same folks whose hard-earned money pays Henson's salary.

All in all, a bone-headed move. Luckily, if there was one plus of all this new-fangled "digital media" is that there's really nowhere to run. Henson's apologies were lame and only served to further reflect how little he "gets it." In the words of the ancient philosopher Ron Burgundy, why don't you sit this next one out and stop talking for a while.

What's that? You're already sitting out? Riiiiight.

A+ for Chip Kelly: Part Deux

I'm a Believer

I'm no sucker. I realize in the real world, integrity does not always equate with success. The world of college football is no different. If anything, it often seems he who cheats most and is the biggest a-hole brings home the fat contracts and accolades. And, yes, I understand at the end of the day it's all about "Ws." It's a business, despite any delusions that college athletics is not. Still, there's something comforting in knowing that some head coaches still seem to have a little human left in them. A sense of right and wrong, a respect for their position, their institutions and their obligation to the athletes and the communities surrounding them. I could be proved wrong, but Oregon head man Chip Kelly seems to fit squarely in such a category -- which is why I'm going to continue to root like hell for him and his team.

This is entitled part deux, because I've mentioned Coach Kelly here before. In fact, it was less than a month ago in this post. I praised his handling and apparently genuine sincerity in delivering the message about LaGarrette Blount and his suspension. There was something in his manner, his lack of apparent spin and just the look in is eyes that told you something about the man. Turns out, Coach Kelly might just be that kind of guy.

Consider the following courtesy of the definitive blog of all things college football Every Day Should Be Saturday:

Tony Seminary is a 1996 graduate of the University of Oregon and a season ticket holder for the Ducks football team. He attended the Boise State game, and witnessed the loss to the Broncos and LeGarrette Blount’s PunchGate up close and personal. After the game, Seminary wrote an email to Chip Kelly, and did what you may have dreamt of doing after traveling to watch your team put in an embarrassing performance on the road: he asked for a refund, and attached an invoice bureaucrat-style. From the original email:

I was so angry with the game (even before the post-game melee) I am sending you an invoice for my trip to Boise. The product on the field Thursday night is not something I was at all proud of, and I feel as though I’m entitled to my money back for the trip. Please see my invoice attached in this email. I will happily send along receipts if need be.

Unlike most fans, he actually wrote this up and sent it. Unlike most coaches, Chip Kelly responded with a personal check written to one Anthony Seminary. (bold emphasis, my add)

Orson/Spencer's got the full story at EDSBS, but let's just say Coach Kelly continues to impress me. Congrats to the Ducks on the win and snapping the Utes nation-leading winning streak. However, just as many kudos should be heading Coach Kelly's way for the way he's conducting himself and the example he's setting for a his program.

Irresponsibly Premature NFL MVP Talk

I think it's absurd, asinine and downright irresponsible when the college football luminaries begin pontificating about potential Heisman Trophy winners in the second or third week of the college football season. I'm disgusted seeing them seriously discussing a months-long contest just days following the opening of "registration."

So, where should we start in breaking down this past weekend's NFL slate? Hmmmm. Whuddya think should be the 2009 NFL MVP, Brees or Peterson? See that? I flipped it on y'all. Clever, huh? Or lazy...Anyway, I am only half-joking. "All Day" and Easy Brees-y are off to the races and it would in no way surprise me if they are in the small consideration set of MVP finalists come early 2010.

It would be somewhat of a waste here if we were simply going on two weeks of gaudy stats alone. In this case, we've got the eye-popping stats...plus two All-Pros...plus two 2-0 teams that should, one would think, be serious division and playoff contenders. I happen to think watching these two play is also some of the most entertaining football to witness. It will be intriguing to follow, but it color me not-at-all-suprised if Brees and Peterson are neck-and-neck for MVP honors come the conclusion of the season.

A quick look at their resumes just for kicks:

Drew Brees: Brees is off to another video game-style start. If you want to play the numbers game, he's leading the league in passer rating (132.9), touchdowns (9, Flacco is second with 5) and yards per completion (9.8). He sits at second in total yards (669, Rivers) and completion percentage (75.0, Favre). More importantly, his Saints are 2-0 and averaging 46.5 points and 468 total yards per game. While the win against the Lions may be nothing to write home about, the route over Philly at the Linc (don't blame the loss on Kolb) is quite impressive.

Adrian Peterson: Peterson, meanwhile, has shown what the Vikings are capable of as long as they continue to hand the ball to him and avoid giving it to the other team. Peterson is tops in the NFL in rushing yards (272) and touchdowns (4). Despite sitting at 32nd in the league in psasing yards/game through two weeks, Peterson's Vikings (and I use that nomer intentionally, because they are undoubtedly his team) are 2-0 as well. Now, if winning resumes are being judged, the Vikings victories over the Lions and Browns are arguable the least impressive in football. Still, "All Day" is proving (if it was in question) he is the best back in the NFL. Who would've thought next week's tilt against the Niners could be a real litmus test. Singletary's defense has been stingy yielding only 26 points in their first two and a third-best 53.0 YPG on the ground.

Yup, looks like the race for MVP is a two-man battle. Who do you have? And, yes, I am kidding...kind of.

To Delonte West Finding Some Peace of Mind

I am trying to be a kinder, gentler Legend these days. In all seriousness, the mindless bashing of players for their slip-ups and personal missteps -- serious or as is more often the case minor -- is becoming less funny and more...regrettable...if not reprehensible? It doesn't particularly reward me (with anything but, sadly, traffic), my readers or the players themselves. They surely get more than enough heat from those "traditional" boys without the need for the blogging mobs to flippantly pile on.

So, I'm not going to take the cheap bait. It's why I refrained from coming up with some trite, juvenile play-on-words headline for this post in reference to the Cavs' Delonte West's recent arrest on weapons charges (though it would've been a layup). I won't lie and say it didn't pop into my head. It did. And then, for whatever reason, my head went somewhere else. Far away from what would be the "wittiest" (and likely most callous) headline to the other end of the spectrum.

Namely, that Delonte West is clearly a troubled young (26) year-old man. He's had issues in the past, and it's this is not an individual who is at peace now either. Details continue to emerge that make one question how well West is or may ever be. Some will belittle him relentlessly. Folks will talk about how stupid these athletes are and how their 10s of millions of dollars shouldn't buy them any sympathy. Trust me, I get the sentiment. But I'm one of those who also tries to see the other side of the story.

Delonte West was pulled over on his motorcycle driving dangerously on the Beltway not too far from where he played high school ball. According to reports, he was carrying three loaded guns: "a Beretta 9mm in [his] waistband, a Ruger .357 magnum strapped to his leg and a shotgun in a guitar case slung over his back"(my emphasis added).

After reading that passage, one seemingly-similar athlete case immediately came to mind - Maurice Clarett. The former Ohio St. star (short-lived), Clarett was apprehended by police in August of 2006 after a high-speed chase that later revealed four loaded weapons including an AK-47 assault rifle. Maurice was fairly resistant to officers' attempts to subdue him via taser on account of the bulletproof vest he was wearing at the time.

Now, whether the cases are true parallels (or have any similarities beyond the erratic driving and seeming preparedness for a firefight) I cannot say. However, neither are instances, for example, of mere immaturity or stupidity a la a fairly well-adjusted veteran athletes trying to play gangsta. Each reeks of something deeper, more troubling and, frankly, much sadder. I'm not sure what Delonte was running from or heading after with that arsenal, but this 26 year-old appears in need of help. Hopefully, he can find it and whatever other peace he needs.

Out...

How 'Bout Them Canes, Shannon and Jacory?

The U Might Not Be Back, But They're On Their Way

I can understand why a lot of America might've had trouble pulling for the "U" back in the day. I'm sure there are plenty of college football fans who were none too melancholy to see the 'Canes slowly fade toward mediocrity and away from the national spotlight. I get it. But I'll tell you what. I sure do like this Miami football team.

I've never claimed to possess the college football knowledge of an Orson or a Doc Saturday. So, my perception may not exactly be reality. But I've been rooting for Coach Shannon from day one. Maybe because he's a hometown guy. It could've been because I thought he'd seen the good, bad and ugly and genuinely wanted to clean up the program. Perhaps because he seemed to endure some more struggle to get back to where the program once was - minus the baggage.

So, I was impressed at the resiliency shown battling through a rough debut season in 2007 (5-7). It was encouraging - despite some bumps with coaching staff, personnel and still some off-the-field stuff - to see the Canes creep a bit closer to decent, posting a winning record and going to a bowl game in 2008. Granted, the Emerald Bowl ain't exactly in the pantheon of the college post-season, but baby steps.

And one couldn't help but notice a kid named Jacory and his performanceagainst the 'Noles during the opening weekend of the '09 season. I believe I showed the sophomore a little love that following Monday. In that same post, I also praised Miami. Because while behemoths like the Gators and Tide welcomed the likes of Charleston Southern, Florida International, North Texas and Troy between them in the opening weeks, Miami lined up the following Murderer's Row that still has me shaking my head: Florida St. in Tallahassee, Georgia Tech, a trip to Blacksburg to visit the Hokies followed by Oklahoma. Wow. Seriously?

As I mentioned before, for a rebuilding program (which is what Miami is believe it or not) that is absolutely brutal. You go through that stretch and you're not going to get any flack from me if Florida A&M and UCF get wedged in before the rest of the ACC slate.

All of this is which to say, I continue to be impressed. Miami is currently taking #14 Georgia Tech behind the proverbial woodshed. Now the Yellow Jackets may not be deserving of such a ranking, particularly after a performance against Clemson that was uneven at best. Still, minutes into the fourth Jacory Harris is again looking beyond money. Try 20-25 for 270 three touchdowns and no picks. The offense looks explosive. The defense has been respectable. The story, though, is Harris. He has again shown the pocket presence, leadership and playmaking ability that belies a sophomore. Call me crazy, but he's been a lot more impressive than this guy.

Is the U back for real? Probably not...not all the way. But I'm buying in to the agenda Shannon's selling (and has been), and I love watching this team. Can they really travel to Blacksburg and have a shot? Oklahoma? Hey, you never know. I do know one thing, I'm going to keep tuning in.

F Cervelli, the Yankees and Their G-Damn Pies

F Francisco Cervelli. F the New York Yankees. F them and their walkoff wins, pie-in-the-face antics and overall enthusiasm. I'm fed up with the "great chemistry," "clutch hitting" and penchant for comebacks. You want completely misplaced and ridiculous vitriol from a bitter fan of the sorry-ass Mets? You got it.

I just gone done watching the Spanks denouement after returning home from a nice, long soul-emptying day of work. Why were the Yankees even on? For what reason would a devoted Yankees antagonist voluntarily subject himself to potential misery? Excellent question. Answer: my wife.

Not to get all into it, but I kinda converted her when we first got together. At first, she did it to get in my good graces, but, eventually (although she won't admit it), she grew to like the poor bastards who play out in Queens. She began to watch religiously the games I attended and regularly even when I flipped it on from the couch. She's done with the Mets for 2009, and I am too. As I walked in this evening, I still questioned her though as to why the Yankees on "my TV." Her reply: I watched your team all year, and it's fun to watch a winning team. Fair enough.

Back to the nauseating events that unfolded in the Bronx. I walk in having grabbed a call-in dinner and the Yanks are down 4-2 in the eight. I'm already sick. I know how this story ends. This is the way it once was...year after year...game after game. Yankees fans themselves never seemed to see or believe it was coming, but the Mets fans always knew.

Despite the foregone conclusion, I for some reason subjected myself to watching the train wreck - I mean, victory -- in agonizing slow motion. It then ended, just as quickly as I'd sat down. A kid named Francisco Cervelli drove in Brett Gardner with the winning run in the bottom of the ninth. A kid called up a few weeks ago whose previous biggest moment might have been representing Italy in the World Baseball Classic found himself running away from his teammates who eagerly chased him in the spirit of another boisterous post-game celebration.

So it is with the Yankees. They always seem to win (even when they don't). This time it was the September call-up catcher who pinch hit in the late innings for one of the brothers Molina. It was the 14th walkoff win of the year for the boys from the Bronx -- tops in the majors. It was their 950th comeback win of the system. Another win. More drama. Another new hero. And, of course, another pie-in-the face. I sure liked it better when they stopped being the Yankees for a few years. F this.

Humpday Potpourri

Protect Your Head, It's Walkoff Time...Again

Back in the day, we used to dedicate Wednesdays to a little potpourri of what caught our eye around the Interwebs. It was a pretty regular "feature." So, like most of those here, it's been consistently irregular. Well, I've got stuff to do today, so I'm bringing it back. Plus, these folks know what they're talking about. Without further adieu...

Maybe Walking Ethier Late is a Strategy to Consider
It seems Mr. Ethier has a bit of a tendency to punish team's in the late innings. It's like a trend now...or something. Mike Sciosia's Tragic Illness presents a illustrative retrospective on the Ethier's heroics including last night's, you guessed it, walkoff.

NBA GMs, Get on the Horn to Ostertag!: One of our favorite big, doofy white guys is contemplating a comeback. Rumors and Rants is as confused as I am about the decision.

Define "Catch": Who knew the Chargers/Raiders Monday night would offer any degree of talkability. Fans, commentators and those who are just so pumped about football that they'll take any opportunity to talk about it, continue to debate whether Murphy's grab should've been ruled a touchdown. The discussion questions everything we ever knew or though about a catch. With Leather opines.

The Most Exciting Play in Sports?: I give NFL return man a lot of respect. The more I watch the game, the more the speed at which these men fly down the field on kickoffs and punts and the relative "vulnerability" of the men trying to take it the other way scares me to death. So, when these fellas take it to the house it's even more impressive. Epic Carnival takes a look at some of the most electric touchdown returns. Some great stuff, however, I've got to agree with one commenter who called out this omission...by the way, what a great call from the booth.

That's all for now, folks. Catch you on the flip side.

What Is Terrelle Pryor, Exactly?

I've been too occupied with NFL action to even reflect on the college football weekend. Aside from my Buffs and their depressing (further) plunge into irrelevancy following a loss to the Rockets, one thing stood out for me from this weekend's slate of games. Actually, one player. Terrelle Pryor.

So what about Terrelle Pryor, you might ask? Waiting for the big insight into the Jeannette, PA product who was so larger-than-life coming out of high school that he had his own action figure? Sorry, it's not coming. Actually, I've just got one simple question. What is Terrelle Pryor exactly? The answer might be just as simple. The problem is that I've got no idea one way or another.

After watching Pryor numerous times, I'm not anywhere closer to coming to any sort of definitive opinion of the player. At times last year, as he played as a freshman, I was like many other scouts and commentrators. I watched him at his best, and Vince Young at Texas immediately sprung to mind. A bit lanky, a tad elusive, Pryor seemed to glide and there was enough touch on his passes to make you think this kid had a chance to be the total package. He had that sneaky speed was sneaky the arm to throw the deep ball.

Then, there was the Pryor of Saturday night against USC. Now, again the explanation might be simple. Pryor is a sophomore. USC is no slouch. Their defense could have a lot to do with his throws falling short and a seeming lack of poise at times (while his freshman counterpart Matt Barkley looked like another pro in the making in SC's system despite a hostile environment). The other answer is that Terrelle's physical talents (though ample) might not translate into a gifted, potential one-day NFL prospect-type quartback. I'm leaning towards the latter.

In fact, the closer I looked, the less Pryor looked to be all he's been cracked up to be. Not only didn't Pryor appear to be a "passer," he didn't even look like a thrower. The motion is ugly, the accuracy is not there and the mid-range throw appeared absent. Sure, he can loft a nice rainbow down the sidelines, but what about a dart down the middle to a tight end or a deep out? I ask those who know, what is Terrelle Pryor exactly?

Musings from Opening Sunday in the NFL

Not Too Shabby, Son
Photo: Brett Davis/US Presswire

There will be countless pundits breaking down the opening Sunday slate in the NFL. My opinion holds no weight and is of absolutely zero consequence. I shall share it nonetheless. Some observations based primarily on the games available here on the East Coast.

Jets, Celebration: I talked yesterday about the uncertainty. One game does not a season make, but the areas for concern proved less troublesome today for Gang Green than anticipated. Sanchez made some rookie mistakes but largely looked poised and impressive in making some plays our quarterbacks haven't been equipped to make it some time. The defense looked like they had adopted the Ravens scheme and taken it to heart. Oh, was that a sight to behold for a defense that had taken to timidness in recent seasons. Even the punter looked good. Next week, Pats time. As I said, one game means little.

On the Flip Side, Mr. Kubiak: Maybe the Texans are due to rattle off a 10-win season, but today's performance did nothing to make you think they'll be anything other than the same old underachievers. It's almost like the boo birds were counting down the clock on Coach K's tenure.

Only the Bungles: Perhaps it was this past season of Hard Knocks, or the years of ineptitude, but I've developed a soft spot in my heart for the Bengals. I like Marvin Lewis. I want to root for Palmer and Ocho Cinco. And then, sh*t like today happens and you can't help but think this team is just doomed. Seriously, plays like that just doesn't happen to anyone but the Bungles.

Calling Todd Collins?: I'm sorry, I've seen enough. And if I've seen enough, I'm sure the fans in Washington have been "there" for quite some time. We know management has already put more than a little thought to a different direction under center. I couldn't tell you which path may lead to righteousness for the 'Skins, but to an "outsider" it seems pretty clear Campbell and Zorn ain't the road to riches.

The Buc No Longer Stops Here: The mystique of the Bucs D has faded -- like into oblivion. I'm not sold on the 2009 Cowboys, and they ran it up on the Buccaneers defense today. Mr. Derrick Brooks is gone and with him an era seems to have officially disappeared.

The Right Favre Formula: This will be repeated 1,000 times over the next day(s), but Favre's 14-21 for 110 and a touch may seem like pedestrian numbers. In fact, they are, but it matters not. If the Vikes can keep Favre from, well, being Favre, these numbers are about what they should try to aspire to each week. All day did what he does, and he'll keep doing it. Brett simply needs to complete enough passes to keep the pressure off and not hand the ball to the other team. Seems simple enough, but I learned last year that it's not quite so easy for the 'ole gunslinger.

Other random, unfounded and unsubstantiated rumors:

• Yes, I'm biased. Still, David Harris and Bart Scott make one scary middle linebacker duo no matter who you root for.
• Cutler's "confidence" sure looks like just plain stupidity so far tonight in Lambeau.
• I think I may be in love with Mike Singletary. I loved the idea of what he's been trying to do in SF, so I picked the Niners to cover out in Arizona. The win was a nice bonus. Call me crazy, but these guys are going to play for him. If he can make Shaun Hill look like a real NFL player...
• Hey Mangini, enjoy Cleveland. OK, I know...that was just mean.

I've got a lot more bouncin' around the ole noggin' but will re-visit. Monday night double-dip? Yes, please.

It's Almost Here...

I'm a Believer, Don't Let Me Down

I can almost taste it. I spent Thursday night's opener in a sports bar with friends as a psuedo-celebration of my birthday. It was just as much an occasion to rejoice in the return of football -- a glorious moment that becomes more anticipated and desired with each passing year. Yet, as joyous as it was to see regular season football and everything that comes along with it, for most of us outside Stiller Nation and Titanland, tomorrow is it. So, today, optimism lives. There is no fan martyrdom, no bitching, no questioning and no critiquing. Today, there is hope and an empty slate. A tale yet to be written.

No matter the void of prose in the novel of the 2009 season today, we all no doubt have our "feeling." Each fan possesses that gut sense of what reality may truly be for their team. For me, as it relates to the J-E-T-S, that emotion certainly exists. However, entering this season so much seems legitimately unpredictable. And you know what? It kind of feels good. Not knowing...

Not knowing just how much impact Rex Ryan and Bart Scott will have on a defense that has been embarrassingly soft and tentative at times over the past few seasons. Not knowing if the wide receiver situation is really as dire as some make it out to be. Not knowing just how desperately the Jets will miss Ellis in week one and Pace for the first month of the season. Not knowing whether the offensive line will show signs of coming together as a unit. And, most of all, not knowing about him. You know, that guy.

On the 'morrow, answers will come. Opinions will take shape and a body of evidence shall begin to be built. For the Jets, one cannot run from the glaring questions. Today, though, is optimism's time. This is a team that went 9-7 a year ago. It is a squad that returns six Pro Bowl players and last year's leading rusher. They boast an inside linebacker tandem in Harris and Scott that may, when all is said and done, be one of the best in the NFL. The all-purpose yardage king of 2008 returns to a backfield that has added another powerful back that played the type of game at Iowa that Ryan wants to see in NY. There's a shutdown corner. A beast clogging up the middle on the D-line. Arguably, the League's best in the middle on the other side of the ball.

In fact, there is a lot to be excited about when it comes to the 2009 New York Jets. It all starts tomorrow in Houston. I wouldn't be surprised with either outcome. But, for now, I'm going to relish in the bliss of ignorance. Tomorrow it begins. Let's do this.

Props to Captain Jeter

Drink it in, folks. In my two years of blogging at this here site, I can recall very few times where I have willfully said anything approaching favorable about the New York Yankees. I have volunteered no words of kindness regarding the organization, its players, managers, fans, staff or broadcasters. Yes, today is indeed an extremely rare day. So congratulations, Captain Jeter.

I refer to Jeter with the Captain distinction in the same manner of respect one would include Private or Lieutenant in your address of a military officer or Senator in mention of your state's political representative. That is not to compare or equate ballplayers to soldiers (we know the ridiculousness there) or policymakers , but, rather to recognize the pride and earnestness with which the individual approaches and embodies such titles in their fulfillment of the job. Jeter has earned the respect over a decade and a half of excellence.

His achievement, in tying and soon surpassing Gehrig's all-time Yankees career hit mark, is a symbolic testament to his consistency, loyalty, leadership and talent. I could go on dropping cliche after cliche about #2, all of which we've heard thousands of times. The clear difference for me is that no matter how frequent and familiar the characterizations (clutch, steadying, unflappable, humble), they are (surprisingly) not nauseating. So many times, regardless of whether the accolades are deserved, the mere monotony of adoration fans can bestow upon a player gets sickening. In the case of Jeter, it doesn't really bother me. Maybe, because there seems to be little room to debate any of it.

Jeter has done it so well, for so long, the right way. Sure that sounds old-fashioned and trite. But one need only watch their own team and players on a day in and day out basis to be reminded that running the bases correctly, hustling on routine ground balls and backing up bags are no longer foregone conclusions. And this goes without mentioning two-out hits, sparkling plays in the field or stolen bases.

The man is, from every observable angle, a consummate professional and teammate. His is a career that likely deserves even more admiration, perspective that will probably come years after he's hung them up. But, for now, among Yankees fans or ardent detractors, there is little debate he is now and has for this era been "The Greatest Yankee." The fact that it doesn't make me sick to say that is something.

Michael Phelps Does Bull Hurley Impersonation at Open. FAIL.

So...Much...Wrong

I'm still getting my bearings, to be honest. I've been flipping around between Mets and Yanks, but mostly spending time taking in Nadal and Monfils, who is just all sorts of a sick athlete. But that's besides the point. There have been some mind-blowing, mouth-opening shots in the match so far, but nothing compares to the image above.

Phelps ridiculous facial "craftsmanship" stopped me in my tracks. What exactly is that thing? Not a real handlebar mustache...not a goatee...is it some sort of a poorly kept overly-thick Fu Manchu? According to the authorities at the American Mustache Institute (AMI), it appears Phelps's concoction most closely resembles the handlebar style. Still, not that I'm an expert on the 'stache, but it looks horrendous right?

And then there's the sideways black painter-style hat. What is that exactly? Are you hardcore? Is that dorky white swimmer-boy gangsta style? Really, this guy has slowly metamorphosized from a shy and awkward dude who was annoying but really good at swimming and generally harmless...to a punk-ass who I'm rooting for to fall on his face. Does he have a lipper in, too? I used to enjoy one from time-to-time too but not you might want to hold off during a national TV interview. Just a thought.

Ugh. Now, Bull Hurley. That my friend's was a man 'stache.

The Future Might Be a Lil' Brighter for The U 'Cause of a Kid Named Jacory

Jacory Harris a Beacon of Light for Canes Fans

The Canes and Noles just wrapped up what has to easily take home "game of the opening weekend" honors. That said, The U can look forward to Georgia Tech next Saturday followed by Va Tech in Blacksburg and Oklahoma (seriously, that's a beyond brutal opening quartet of games for an improving team). But, for the time being, Miami fans can take solace in at least one thing from Monday night's Labor Day show. Make that one player. His name is Jacory Harris. His name...is Jacory Harris.

First off, this game reminded this 30-something of FSU-Miami battles of days gone by, and that is a damn good thing. Yes, it was high-scoring and competitive. But moreover, unlike the past few seasons, it was decent-looking football. Athletes flying around everywhere, and a few real quarterbacks on each side of the ball. The signal-caller for the 'Canes was the sophomore Harris. You may remember him as the skinny kid who started some games and otherwise split time with Robert Marve during the latter's fairly unimpressive 2008 season.

Well, the writing was on the wall in South Florida. Marve has since transferred to Purdue, and the team is in the lanky sophomore Harris's hands -- and that's abundantly clear for anyone who saw him play earlier tonight. Poised, nimble and gifted with a nice, soft touch, he made play after play on the way to racking up 386 passing yards to go with two scores (he did also throw two picks, one a bad decision the other a result of getting annihilated by FSU's corner on a kill-shot clear path blitz).

Beyond the gaudy stats though, Harris has helped bring a little of that swagger back to the Canes. He's surrounded by a little old school Miami speed in the backfield and at receiver, and at times he looks effortless out there. His playmaking ability should help Randy Shannon's crew continue to climb the ladder back toward the direction of its heyday. It won't happen overnight, but having Jacory at the helm for the next three seasons certainly looks like it can't help by accelerate the cause. With the Yellow Jackets, Hokies and Sooners up next, we'll all see just how quickly things can change -- for better or worse.

An A+ for Oregon Head Man Chip Kelly

Yes, this is a few days late but I thought it worth noting. Prior to this past Friday, I knew little about Oregon head man Chip Kelly and had even less of an opinion of him as a man and a football coach. I can certainly read up on his bio and his mastery with the spread ad nausea to try to get a sense. Mike Bellotti's obvious vote of approval signifies something too. However, all I really needed to see was the clip above.

It's enough to make me a Kelly fan for life. As someone who spends most of his waking hours in the world of public relations, my eyes and ears are often a bit more open and attentive when a player or coach takes the mic at a press conference, before jogging into the locker room at halftime or following a victory or defeat. My scrutiny is perhaps greatest when those same individuals are questioned about or asked to address some matter of "controversy."

Like other fans, I look for sincerity, accountability and authority. As a practitioner, my antenna is acutely tuned to the message, each and every word choice, and the body language of the person delivering the commentary. Most of the time, should that person succeed on the latter points, the former emotions have likely been conveyed.

No matter how you look at it, Chip Kelly scored aces across the board -- and it's rare you see that nowadays. Regardless of whether he was media-trained or speaking off-the-cuff, Kelly's message was strong, clear and articulate. And if like me you agreed with that message (about tailback LeGarrette Blount), you walked away with a great deal of respect for Kelly, the program he is building and the University of Oregon.