-This was definitely the year to take advantage of the opportunity and I am thrilled with MSU's end result, even though we are tri-champions and won't make a BCS game. We had an experienced quarterback and receivers, veteran defense, and a favorable schedule. While the talk of other opportunities will start soon for Coach Dantonio, and it is highly likely one of our assistants will earn a head coaching job soon, I think that he is in it for the long run and his staff will continue to benefit from consistency. Next year will be extremely tough, but I am more confident about our chances.
-I was extremely happy to see MSU come out strong and build an early lead yesterday. Defeating Penn State in Beaver Stadium was a significant "monkey off our back" type of accomplishment. The resounding statement from MSU has been "we're not the same old Michigan State anymore". While that is correct, they haven't completely absolved themselves of some of their negative traits. I said it before - you have to learn how to win and be a champion consistently. When teams like Ohio State lose games, it is because they were outmatched or had a lapse in effort. They don't, however, get cocky and make stupid plays when they have a game in hand. How many people were screaming at their tv "take a knee!" when Trent Robinson intercepted that pass in the end zone? The fact that he fumbled it seemed like the foregone outcome of that play. Hopefully they will learn from that experience so they play more disciplined in tough games.
-The sole intent of the BCS is to identify the top two teams to play in the National Championship. It is very inappropriate for it be used to select the "real" conference champions in the event of a tie. Yes, our conference championship game next year will bring more clarity to the process, but look at the Big 12 South where the BCS will determine the division winner. The Big Ten elimintated a very courteous "gentlemans rule" in that the team with the longest Rose Bowl drought gets the honors in tie situations. The BCS is an unfair conference tie-breaker because it does the opposite - encourages dominance by the consistently successful. I think that Wisconsin needed to win by the large margins that they have in the past few weeks because I think Ohio State would have overtook them otherwise. Even though Wisconsin was the victor in their head-to-head matchup, the powerhouses always seem to get the benefit of the doubt. Going into this week, LSU was the top ranked 1 loss team, Alabama was the top ranked 2 loss team, and Iowa was the top ranked 4 loss team. However, by the end of the weekend, they all fell.
-Is the reason why we are ranked lowest in the BCS among the conference co-champions because we lost the latest? Because we lost by the largest margin? Because we lost to the lowest ranked team of the three? Any of those are logical reasons, but what about the fact that OSU lost to Wisconsin who lost to us?
-Hypothetically - would you rather MSU plays in a BCS game against a less memorable opponent (say TCU or the Big East Champion) or play in the Capital One Bowl against Nick Saban's Alabama team? I think the latter. We are Big 10 Champions, so that gives this team a legacy. Winning a revenge bowl game against Nick Saban gives us a memorable game as well.
-How cocky was it for OSU to be shouting "we're going to the Rose Bowl!" and for their cheerleaders to be holding roses in the 4th quarter yesterday? How ignorant would it have looked if MSU was doing that?
-Iowa... really? Minnesota? Your ONLY significant victory this year was against MSU and that is starting to look worse and worse.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Running Thoughts on South Carolina Game
Since the South Carolina game was my first glimpse at the 2010-2011 Spartans, I wanted to share my initial running thoughts as the game progressed.
-Screw Brad Stevens for dragging the Louisville/Butler game on and on. It was bad enough losing to your team in the tournament. Now I have to watch your players foul when they're down by 10+ with less than a minute left? Show of hands: who thought Butler would be as good as last year? Yeah, me neither.
-Green's weight loss is NOTICEABLE.
-This team shouldn't ever have difficulty scoring.
-They need to gel better defensively - I saw a few completely blown assignments.
-After seeing Ohio State and Sullinger, they are CLEARLY our primary competition for the Big 10 Title
-Nix does not look very confident out there.
-At the half: 15 assists on 16 FG? Only 5 Turnovers? Nice.
-They showed a clip of Delvon Roe acting in a Shakespearean play right before the game. Awesome.
-I like that they shifted the Izzone to be in front of the camera. They seem to be on top of their game tonight.
-Izzo's "we're up by 17 at the half but I don't like what I saw" scowl was in midseason form.
-I saw a headline on espn.com that said "MSU" but it turned out to be Mississippi St. Haven't we performed well enough in football and basketball that "MSU" should mean Michigan State? Can't they just say "Mich/Miss St"?
-If the Tyler Hansborough UNC team played this MSU team, I know we would see the same exact outcome- a really good center with a speedy PG will shut us down.
-Sherman and Nix are a combined 0-6 on FT right now. Where is Adreian Payne so far tonight?? Makes you really miss Goran Suton and Paul Davis.
(Switched over to Conan during a commercial. When is he going to shave that stupid beard? I thought that was just a "time off from TV" beard)
-DEFINITE lapse of focus around the 15 min mark in the 2nd - Summers with sloppy ball handling on back-to-back plays, Lucious bounces the ball off his foot. - Who regains the momentum with some big offensive and defensive plays?? Appling and Payne. Isn't that backwards???
-Crazy stat: There have been 9 triple doubles in MSU history. Magic has 8 of those. The 9th? I don't know, they didn't say!!!
-It's good to see NCAA Tournament Summers, not 2009 Summers.
-Roe is looking like Raymar, except he can play defense, he isn't making shitty fouls, and he isn't bitching at the refs like a little baby... so basically, just the good things.
-0 pts, 4 fouls, poor ball control.... maybe Izzo should have suspended Lucious for another game....
-MAKE YOUR DAMN FREE THROWS!!!! We would have put this game away a long time ago if we would have made some of these.
-We now have 4 people with 4 fouls. I am really disappointed with their second half performance. They are just coasting, but the lead is down to 8 with 4+ mins left.
-Is it fair to tack some of the sloppy play up to the fact that it is now 12:20am?
-Player of the Game: Roe - 5-6 fg, 15 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 1 to OR Green - 5-6 fg, 18 pts, 12 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk, 2 to
-Screw Brad Stevens for dragging the Louisville/Butler game on and on. It was bad enough losing to your team in the tournament. Now I have to watch your players foul when they're down by 10+ with less than a minute left? Show of hands: who thought Butler would be as good as last year? Yeah, me neither.
-Green's weight loss is NOTICEABLE.
-This team shouldn't ever have difficulty scoring.
-They need to gel better defensively - I saw a few completely blown assignments.
-After seeing Ohio State and Sullinger, they are CLEARLY our primary competition for the Big 10 Title
-Nix does not look very confident out there.
-At the half: 15 assists on 16 FG? Only 5 Turnovers? Nice.
-They showed a clip of Delvon Roe acting in a Shakespearean play right before the game. Awesome.
-I like that they shifted the Izzone to be in front of the camera. They seem to be on top of their game tonight.
-Izzo's "we're up by 17 at the half but I don't like what I saw" scowl was in midseason form.
-I saw a headline on espn.com that said "MSU" but it turned out to be Mississippi St. Haven't we performed well enough in football and basketball that "MSU" should mean Michigan State? Can't they just say "Mich/Miss St"?
-If the Tyler Hansborough UNC team played this MSU team, I know we would see the same exact outcome- a really good center with a speedy PG will shut us down.
-Sherman and Nix are a combined 0-6 on FT right now. Where is Adreian Payne so far tonight?? Makes you really miss Goran Suton and Paul Davis.
(Switched over to Conan during a commercial. When is he going to shave that stupid beard? I thought that was just a "time off from TV" beard)
-DEFINITE lapse of focus around the 15 min mark in the 2nd - Summers with sloppy ball handling on back-to-back plays, Lucious bounces the ball off his foot. - Who regains the momentum with some big offensive and defensive plays?? Appling and Payne. Isn't that backwards???
-Crazy stat: There have been 9 triple doubles in MSU history. Magic has 8 of those. The 9th? I don't know, they didn't say!!!
-It's good to see NCAA Tournament Summers, not 2009 Summers.
-Roe is looking like Raymar, except he can play defense, he isn't making shitty fouls, and he isn't bitching at the refs like a little baby... so basically, just the good things.
-0 pts, 4 fouls, poor ball control.... maybe Izzo should have suspended Lucious for another game....
-MAKE YOUR DAMN FREE THROWS!!!! We would have put this game away a long time ago if we would have made some of these.
-We now have 4 people with 4 fouls. I am really disappointed with their second half performance. They are just coasting, but the lead is down to 8 with 4+ mins left.
-Is it fair to tack some of the sloppy play up to the fact that it is now 12:20am?
-Player of the Game: Roe - 5-6 fg, 15 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 1 to OR Green - 5-6 fg, 18 pts, 12 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk, 2 to
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Haha
"Nobody agrees with me. I feel like the only person on the planet who likes the future of Michigan basketball. Most people seem to think Michigan will finish 16th in the Big Ten, behind the other 10 teams in the league, as well as Nebraska and Michigan State's next four recruiting classes."
- Michael Rosenberg
- Michael Rosenberg
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Moving On
I feel like we've been in this situation before. We had victories earlier in the season against Florida Atlantic, Notre Dame, and were coming off a road vicroty at Northwestern. Michigan State was undefeated in Big Ten play and was receiving a lot of hype before a big game. Once the game began it was immediately clear that we could not rise to the occasion or were perhaps not as good as promoted. By the end of the first quarter, we were already down 21-0. That heartbreaker of a game was our 2008 matchup with Ohio State that ended in a 45-7 loss. The box score of that one is very similar to yesterday's - completely stuffed on the running game (only 52 and 31 yards respectively), an unusually high number of turnovers (5 and 3). I was excited and confident going into that 2008 game and felt immediately deflated (see also 2008 National Championship game vs. North Carolina.) Perhaps I learned my lesson from those games, because I was leery going into Saturday.
I bring up these bad sports memories not to dwell on the past, but to make a point: before Michigan State can take it to the top level, they need to learn how to deal with success and come prepared to play their hardest as a team against the top opponents. Note that I said "top level" - I think that their performance this season has been notably superior to any MSU team in the past decade (as long as they win out, of course). While this season no longer has the potential to be an incredibly amazing season, it still has the ability to become a very special season with a trip to the Rose Bowl. The new goal of the team should be to close out the season strong and win its first bowl game in several years.
-Since we no longer have a chance at the National Championship game, did anyone else jump the "give Boise State a chance" bandwagon? I would much rather see them than Ohio State. After all, OSU didn't even have to play us (that one gives my coworkers a good laugh).
-What happened to our running game? It used to be a strength, but now we can't run on anybody? Is our o-line not creating gaps or did our running backs lose that spark?
-Seeing Chris Rucker play yesterday was a disappointment. I wonder if the situation would have played out differently if we were playing against Eastern Michigan or if we were the ones that came out to the quick lead.
I bring up these bad sports memories not to dwell on the past, but to make a point: before Michigan State can take it to the top level, they need to learn how to deal with success and come prepared to play their hardest as a team against the top opponents. Note that I said "top level" - I think that their performance this season has been notably superior to any MSU team in the past decade (as long as they win out, of course). While this season no longer has the potential to be an incredibly amazing season, it still has the ability to become a very special season with a trip to the Rose Bowl. The new goal of the team should be to close out the season strong and win its first bowl game in several years.
-Since we no longer have a chance at the National Championship game, did anyone else jump the "give Boise State a chance" bandwagon? I would much rather see them than Ohio State. After all, OSU didn't even have to play us (that one gives my coworkers a good laugh).
-What happened to our running game? It used to be a strength, but now we can't run on anybody? Is our o-line not creating gaps or did our running backs lose that spark?
-Seeing Chris Rucker play yesterday was a disappointment. I wonder if the situation would have played out differently if we were playing against Eastern Michigan or if we were the ones that came out to the quick lead.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Sparty On
I don't think I have ever screamed louder at my TV as I did this afternoon. In my opinion, this makes it a 1 game season. I can't imagine we could have a let down against Purdue or Minnesota at home and if we're undefeated going into the Penn State game, I think we'll be able to close out the last game of the season. With College Gameday likely to be broadcast from Iowa City next week, here's my thoughts on things I like and things that need to be improved. (Note: Gameday actually chose Los Angeles, the site of USC/Oregon in attempt to keep their streak of dooming the #1 team alive.)
Three Things I Like
-Cousins is really starting to step up as a leader and take over games when the rest of our team isn't getting the job done. Our WRs are doing a good job of limiting the number of drops, but much of that is due to Cousins putting the ball in the right spot for them.
-For the second week in a row, our team has been able to completely turn the momentum of the game around and gut out a win. Losing a game that was within our grasp used to be a weakness of the "old" Michigan State, but we have turned the tables around.
-We continue to appear to be a team of destiny. The decision to go for the fake punt on 4th and 11 instead of having Cousins run a play on 4th and 6 makes me think they believe it too and they're testing how long they can keep it up. Everything has fallen into place perfectly this season to give us the best opportunity to have success (no OSU on the schedule and they lose, fake FG to beat ND, Penn State is down this year, Wisco is a home game...)
Four Things that Must be Improved
1. Slow Starts
Many people will point out the 2nd half comebacks against Northwestern and Illinois, however the problem with slow starts has plagued MSU all season. The last time they scored a touchdown in the first quarter was a month ago against Northern Colorado. Over the course of the season, they have only scored first quarter touchdowns against two other teams - predictably, Western Michigan and Atlantic. To drive this problem home, here are their drive summaries until they scored against their Big 10 opponents.
Northwestern
3 plays, 9 yards PUNT
3 plays, 6 yards PUNT
3 plays, 25 yards FUMBLE
3 plays, 9 yards PUNT
9 plays, 36 yards FG MISSED
First TD: 3 mins left in 2nd Quarter
Illinois
6 plays, 10 yards PUNT
6 plays, 19 yards PUNT
4 plays, 5 yards TURNOVER ON DOWNS
First score: 7 mins left in 2nd Quarter, FG
First TD: 8 mins left in 3rd Quarter
Michigan
7 plays, 24 yards PUNT
4 plays, 23 yards PUNT
First TD: 11 mins left in 2nd Quarter
Wisconsin
First score: 9 mins left in 1st Quarter, FG
First TD: 30secs left in 2nd Quarter
Because I am a statistics junky (or a dork with too much time on my hands), I figured out that MSU has averaged only 5.8 plays for 24.5 yards for first quarter drives over their games against real opponents (so excluding N. Colorado, WMU and FAU). In comparison, Iowa is averaging 5.5 plays for 44 yards during their games against real competition (Big 10 opponents and Arizona). I would love to see a Wisconsin vs. Ohio State type of start to the game.
2. Iowa's Strong Defense
Although we have played 3 teams ranked between 20-30 in points allowed, we have not played anyone ranked higher than us (17th). Iowa currently ranks 6th best in the country in points allowed. Our offensive line must come better prepared for the challenge they will face than they have the last two weeks. We need to open up holes for our RBs and give Cousins some time to make the playaction work.
3. Kicking Concerns
You may thing I'm crazy for listing that as something MSU must overcome, but this is the first time that Dan Conroy is facing real pressure. He missed his 38 yard field goal today, which was his only try today. Will that sit on his mind all week and affect him next week? We need all of the points we can get against Iowa.
4. Third Down
The difference between MSU and Northwestern on 3rd down was a point of contention all day. Iowa is not exactly good on 3rd down either, but against quality opponents they are 48% and we're only 40%. For having as good of a running game as MSU has (or at least had) I am very surprised they don't convert more 3rd downs.
Three Things I Like
-Cousins is really starting to step up as a leader and take over games when the rest of our team isn't getting the job done. Our WRs are doing a good job of limiting the number of drops, but much of that is due to Cousins putting the ball in the right spot for them.
-For the second week in a row, our team has been able to completely turn the momentum of the game around and gut out a win. Losing a game that was within our grasp used to be a weakness of the "old" Michigan State, but we have turned the tables around.
-We continue to appear to be a team of destiny. The decision to go for the fake punt on 4th and 11 instead of having Cousins run a play on 4th and 6 makes me think they believe it too and they're testing how long they can keep it up. Everything has fallen into place perfectly this season to give us the best opportunity to have success (no OSU on the schedule and they lose, fake FG to beat ND, Penn State is down this year, Wisco is a home game...)
Four Things that Must be Improved
1. Slow Starts
Many people will point out the 2nd half comebacks against Northwestern and Illinois, however the problem with slow starts has plagued MSU all season. The last time they scored a touchdown in the first quarter was a month ago against Northern Colorado. Over the course of the season, they have only scored first quarter touchdowns against two other teams - predictably, Western Michigan and Atlantic. To drive this problem home, here are their drive summaries until they scored against their Big 10 opponents.
Northwestern
3 plays, 9 yards PUNT
3 plays, 6 yards PUNT
3 plays, 25 yards FUMBLE
3 plays, 9 yards PUNT
9 plays, 36 yards FG MISSED
First TD: 3 mins left in 2nd Quarter
Illinois
6 plays, 10 yards PUNT
6 plays, 19 yards PUNT
4 plays, 5 yards TURNOVER ON DOWNS
First score: 7 mins left in 2nd Quarter, FG
First TD: 8 mins left in 3rd Quarter
Michigan
7 plays, 24 yards PUNT
4 plays, 23 yards PUNT
First TD: 11 mins left in 2nd Quarter
Wisconsin
First score: 9 mins left in 1st Quarter, FG
First TD: 30secs left in 2nd Quarter
Because I am a statistics junky (or a dork with too much time on my hands), I figured out that MSU has averaged only 5.8 plays for 24.5 yards for first quarter drives over their games against real opponents (so excluding N. Colorado, WMU and FAU). In comparison, Iowa is averaging 5.5 plays for 44 yards during their games against real competition (Big 10 opponents and Arizona). I would love to see a Wisconsin vs. Ohio State type of start to the game.
2. Iowa's Strong Defense
Although we have played 3 teams ranked between 20-30 in points allowed, we have not played anyone ranked higher than us (17th). Iowa currently ranks 6th best in the country in points allowed. Our offensive line must come better prepared for the challenge they will face than they have the last two weeks. We need to open up holes for our RBs and give Cousins some time to make the playaction work.
3. Kicking Concerns
You may thing I'm crazy for listing that as something MSU must overcome, but this is the first time that Dan Conroy is facing real pressure. He missed his 38 yard field goal today, which was his only try today. Will that sit on his mind all week and affect him next week? We need all of the points we can get against Iowa.
4. Third Down
The difference between MSU and Northwestern on 3rd down was a point of contention all day. Iowa is not exactly good on 3rd down either, but against quality opponents they are 48% and we're only 40%. For having as good of a running game as MSU has (or at least had) I am very surprised they don't convert more 3rd downs.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Is This Really Happening?
Thing I am happy to be wrong about:
On the Wisconsin game: "I don't think we have the talent to keep up. If it is a close game, I think our kicking game costs us this one."
Dan Conroy is tied for most FG made of kickers who haven't missed.
Other unbelievable stats:
-We've played 3 of the top 16 leading rushers and held all of them under 100 yards
-We're tied for 3rd with 12 INTs on the year. Half of those came in the past two games. We only had 2 INTs in our first 3 games.
Ranking my fear of losing in the remaining games:
Oct 30 @ Iowa
Oct 23 @ Northwestern
Nov 27th @ Penn State
Nov 20th vs. Purdue
Nov 6th vs Minnesota
-Does anyone feel we are on a collision course to play Alabama?? How sweet would it be to stick it to Saban?
-Did anyone else know there is now a "Kraft Fight Hunger" Bowl? Unfortunately, it's not on Thanksgiving.
Other Bowl Matchups I would love to see:
Ohio State or Iowa vs. Nebraska - The Cornhuskers get a welcome party to the Big 10
Michigan vs. West Virginia - How badly would WVU fans boo Rich Rod?
Northwestern vs. TCU @ the Humanitarian Bowl - purple vs. purple on a blue field? I think every HD TV in the country would blow up
Other thoughts:
Why would ANY recruit choose Michigan over Michigan State at this point? U-M will likely lose at least 4 games this season and has a reasonable potential to lose another 2.
Why have the powers that be in college football decided that the system needs to give TCU and Boise State a shot the year that we are good? Can it be argued that we are more Boise State this year than Boise State? They need to develop a system that doesn't reward continuous success year after year so much. Roughly a quarter of every team is new each year, so there is going to be a lot of parity.
On the Wisconsin game: "I don't think we have the talent to keep up. If it is a close game, I think our kicking game costs us this one."
Dan Conroy is tied for most FG made of kickers who haven't missed.
Other unbelievable stats:
-We've played 3 of the top 16 leading rushers and held all of them under 100 yards
-We're tied for 3rd with 12 INTs on the year. Half of those came in the past two games. We only had 2 INTs in our first 3 games.
Ranking my fear of losing in the remaining games:
Oct 30 @ Iowa
Oct 23 @ Northwestern
Nov 27th @ Penn State
Nov 20th vs. Purdue
Nov 6th vs Minnesota
-Does anyone feel we are on a collision course to play Alabama?? How sweet would it be to stick it to Saban?
-Did anyone else know there is now a "Kraft Fight Hunger" Bowl? Unfortunately, it's not on Thanksgiving.
Other Bowl Matchups I would love to see:
Ohio State or Iowa vs. Nebraska - The Cornhuskers get a welcome party to the Big 10
Michigan vs. West Virginia - How badly would WVU fans boo Rich Rod?
Northwestern vs. TCU @ the Humanitarian Bowl - purple vs. purple on a blue field? I think every HD TV in the country would blow up
Other thoughts:
Why would ANY recruit choose Michigan over Michigan State at this point? U-M will likely lose at least 4 games this season and has a reasonable potential to lose another 2.
Why have the powers that be in college football decided that the system needs to give TCU and Boise State a shot the year that we are good? Can it be argued that we are more Boise State this year than Boise State? They need to develop a system that doesn't reward continuous success year after year so much. Roughly a quarter of every team is new each year, so there is going to be a lot of parity.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Guster Live!
After watching them live tonight, I have a new appreciation for Guster's new album. They seemed to really be enjoying themselves and at one point said "this is the first time on our tour we felt like a band again". The beers at the venue were $6.75, but they were also 32 ounces. The cup looked like one they would fill with potato salad for you at the deli. A few other thoughts:
-Stacey at one point said "maybe it's inappropriate for me to be saying this to you, but the guy on the end is really cute". She was talking about Adam.
-I bet they regret making a song with ping pong balls at the end now that it means they will have them thrown on stage at every concert. I wonder if they even still play Airport Song anymore.
Here's what I can remember from the set list (in no order). There were a couple I couldn't remember. Really good set - especially the new songs. I was satisfied once they played Demons. Anyone want to guess their opening song?
Architects & Engineers
Do You Love Me
This Could All Be Yours (was as awesome live as you'd think it would be)
Bad Bad World
Demons
Manifest Destiny
Diane
Come Downstairs and Say Hello
Either Way
This is How It Feels to Have a Broken Heart
Hercules
What You Call Love (I think)
Jonah (I think)
Amsterdam
Backyard
What You Wish For
Happier
Satellite
The Captain
Hang On
Barrel of a Gun
-Stacey at one point said "maybe it's inappropriate for me to be saying this to you, but the guy on the end is really cute". She was talking about Adam.
-I bet they regret making a song with ping pong balls at the end now that it means they will have them thrown on stage at every concert. I wonder if they even still play Airport Song anymore.
Here's what I can remember from the set list (in no order). There were a couple I couldn't remember. Really good set - especially the new songs. I was satisfied once they played Demons. Anyone want to guess their opening song?
Architects & Engineers
Do You Love Me
This Could All Be Yours (was as awesome live as you'd think it would be)
Bad Bad World
Demons
Manifest Destiny
Diane
Come Downstairs and Say Hello
Either Way
This is How It Feels to Have a Broken Heart
Hercules
What You Call Love (I think)
Jonah (I think)
Amsterdam
Backyard
What You Wish For
Happier
Satellite
The Captain
Hang On
Barrel of a Gun
Thursday, October 07, 2010
A Second Easily Wonderful Opinion
Trying to find Guster's new album was much more difficult than I expected. I was sick and working from home on Tuesday, so I asked Stacey to pick it up for me. She couldn't find it at Meijer or Target, so I ventured out before work the next day. Since Best Buy was closed, I went to the Walmart next door (yep, I was that desperate to find it). No luck. When I returned to Best But after work, I looked in their "New Releases" section to no avail. I finally found a ton of copies under "G" in the Rock/Pop aisle. I shelled out the extra $6 for the Deluxe edition which only included the bonus songs (a decision that I am now second guessing). I thought it was pretty crappy that they didn't even include the lyrics to the bonus songs. I basically paid $2 a piece for them.
I have listened to the whole album once and again while I write this. The biggest thing I miss on this album are the bongos - not a single one!! My second observation is that they are really religious now! Two songs about Jesus, one about Jonah, and another about Heaven? Overall, I like most of the songs, even though I prefer their old sound. That being said, I don't think I would like it if this was my first "Guster experience". Here's my song-by-song thoughts with a scale of 1-5 bongos (I really do miss them!)
Architects & Engineers - 4 bongos
I like the lyrics - I mean, you have to since they mention Baltimore, right Mike? I can see this being one of their set list mainstays for a while. I'll see on Friday, I guess.
Do You Love Me - 3 bongos
I imagine this song being played during the opening of a romantic comedy or over the end credits. I see a montage of goofy pictures of a couple or grainy video of them laughing and kissing. It is very simple, upbeat and happy, but what almost ruins the song for me are the wedding chimes that play in the background. I can see this being played during Mike's wedding - whenever that is.
On The Ocean - 5 bongos
I think this song is the most like the "old Guster sound". There is a lot of complexity to the sound with the backup vocals, piano, guitar, etc. I like that they have 3 layers of vocals at one point. If I just downloaded certain songs from the album, this would have been the first.
This Could All Be Yours - 2 bongos
It could be more enjoyable live, but I feel like it's a
Stay With Me Jesus - 1 bongo
I feel like this was a rejected song from the Juno soundtrack. I don't get the lyrics at all. I think they were trying to be too "indie-folksongy". It didn't sound like Guster at all.
Bad Bad World - 4 bongos
I can understand why they chose this as one of the first songs they released. It helped set up the "transition" between their old sound and this CD. It's simple, but catchy.
This Is How It Feels To Have A Broken Heart - 2 bongos
Harmonica and banjo, huh? Wasn't horrible, but I didn't particularly like it.
What You Call Love - 4 bongos
Ukelele much better.
That's No Way To Get To Heaven - 3 bongos
I didn't get a strong feeling from this song either way. I did like the harmonies after the title.
Jesus And Mary - 1 bongo
Just bad. I can't imagine myself listening to this one much. Apparently I don't like songs they write about Jesus.
Hercules and Do What You Want- 3 bongos
Again, not a strong reaction either way. I kind of feel these were "throw away" songs to fill out the album. It doesn't feel like there was a lot of effort behind them. Much like my critiques of the last few songs!
Well - 4 bongos
A good "change of pace". I usually like their softer-toned songs.
Jonah - 4 bongos
I think they should have included this on the "regular" album and have left off some of the last few.
Lost At Sea - 3 bongos
Another "throw away song" in my opinion. Not very memorable.
I have listened to the whole album once and again while I write this. The biggest thing I miss on this album are the bongos - not a single one!! My second observation is that they are really religious now! Two songs about Jesus, one about Jonah, and another about Heaven? Overall, I like most of the songs, even though I prefer their old sound. That being said, I don't think I would like it if this was my first "Guster experience". Here's my song-by-song thoughts with a scale of 1-5 bongos (I really do miss them!)
Architects & Engineers - 4 bongos
I like the lyrics - I mean, you have to since they mention Baltimore, right Mike? I can see this being one of their set list mainstays for a while. I'll see on Friday, I guess.
Do You Love Me - 3 bongos
I imagine this song being played during the opening of a romantic comedy or over the end credits. I see a montage of goofy pictures of a couple or grainy video of them laughing and kissing. It is very simple, upbeat and happy, but what almost ruins the song for me are the wedding chimes that play in the background. I can see this being played during Mike's wedding - whenever that is.
On The Ocean - 5 bongos
I think this song is the most like the "old Guster sound". There is a lot of complexity to the sound with the backup vocals, piano, guitar, etc. I like that they have 3 layers of vocals at one point. If I just downloaded certain songs from the album, this would have been the first.
This Could All Be Yours - 2 bongos
It could be more enjoyable live, but I feel like it's a
Stay With Me Jesus - 1 bongo
I feel like this was a rejected song from the Juno soundtrack. I don't get the lyrics at all. I think they were trying to be too "indie-folksongy". It didn't sound like Guster at all.
Bad Bad World - 4 bongos
I can understand why they chose this as one of the first songs they released. It helped set up the "transition" between their old sound and this CD. It's simple, but catchy.
This Is How It Feels To Have A Broken Heart - 2 bongos
Harmonica and banjo, huh? Wasn't horrible, but I didn't particularly like it.
What You Call Love - 4 bongos
Ukelele much better.
That's No Way To Get To Heaven - 3 bongos
I didn't get a strong feeling from this song either way. I did like the harmonies after the title.
Jesus And Mary - 1 bongo
Just bad. I can't imagine myself listening to this one much. Apparently I don't like songs they write about Jesus.
Hercules and Do What You Want- 3 bongos
Again, not a strong reaction either way. I kind of feel these were "throw away" songs to fill out the album. It doesn't feel like there was a lot of effort behind them. Much like my critiques of the last few songs!
Well - 4 bongos
A good "change of pace". I usually like their softer-toned songs.
Jonah - 4 bongos
I think they should have included this on the "regular" album and have left off some of the last few.
Lost At Sea - 3 bongos
Another "throw away song" in my opinion. Not very memorable.
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
Michigan Week
I can't wait for this game Saturday.
Denard Robinson has more rushing yards than 91 teams.
I think that the way Michigan can make us pay is by having him roll out of the pocket and then throw deep down field. In this situation, our linebackers may overcommit to trying to stop him from running leaving the middle open. On SportsCenter, they just showed how having the DEs go right after him rather than falling back into contain, he doesn't have enough room to run and throws the ball earlier than he'd like. My hope is that the defenses he has faced have been nothing like our defense (top 20 in the country!). I think if we can knock him hard early, he will be more hesitant to take off and run.
I keep trying to remind myself that they almost lost to UMass and Indiana, and played a close game through three quarters vs. Bowling Green. It's Michigan/Michigan State, though, so their defense will certainly play at a high level.
I think we are better served playing them close all game rather than coming out to a big lead and letting them back in it in the second half, which we always do. I don't want them to have the momentum at the end of the game.
If we pull this one out, I am relieved that we have Illinois before the always competitive matchup with Northwestern. I don't think we can beat both Iowa and Penn State, but I am excited for the propect of finally playing in a BCS game.
Denard Robinson has more rushing yards than 91 teams.
I think that the way Michigan can make us pay is by having him roll out of the pocket and then throw deep down field. In this situation, our linebackers may overcommit to trying to stop him from running leaving the middle open. On SportsCenter, they just showed how having the DEs go right after him rather than falling back into contain, he doesn't have enough room to run and throws the ball earlier than he'd like. My hope is that the defenses he has faced have been nothing like our defense (top 20 in the country!). I think if we can knock him hard early, he will be more hesitant to take off and run.
I keep trying to remind myself that they almost lost to UMass and Indiana, and played a close game through three quarters vs. Bowling Green. It's Michigan/Michigan State, though, so their defense will certainly play at a high level.
I think we are better served playing them close all game rather than coming out to a big lead and letting them back in it in the second half, which we always do. I don't want them to have the momentum at the end of the game.
If we pull this one out, I am relieved that we have Illinois before the always competitive matchup with Northwestern. I don't think we can beat both Iowa and Penn State, but I am excited for the propect of finally playing in a BCS game.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Quarterly Report
After three games into the college football season, I feel very comfortable with my preseason analysis. I think it is appropriate to make some judgements about this year's team. What we've seen is what we're going to get. While they are 3-0 for the first time since 2007, Michigan State has been disappointing this season for the most part. The defense, lead by Greg Jones (who Sports Illustrated named as the best player in college football before the year began), has not been able to get pressure on the quarterback or force turnovers. Jones, who was listed for a pleathora of preseason awards, has only 1 sack and 2 tackles-for-loss. The NCAA leader has 1 more than our entire team (5 vs. 4) and we rank tied for 80th in the country in sacks. Our two team interceptions puts us tied for 58th. Before Michigan State can make it to the next level, which I think means finishing seasons with no more than 5 losses and occasionally seeing a BCS game, we need a defense that can change the momentum in games.
The other player who has underwhelmed so far this year is Cousins. MSU is tied for 78th in the country in passing yards per game, but some of that can be attributed to a surprising potent running game, which ranks 16th in YPG and is 5th best in YPA. Cousins does not emit the confidence and decision making skills of a 2nd year quarterback that some labeled the best pro-style QB in the Big 10. He has not established a connection with a solid, "go to" receiver, which is also largely due to Mark Dell's lack of improvement. Drew Sharp called out Cousins this morning by saying, "he is more a game-manager than game-changer". I felt that Cousins was going to be our best quarterback since Jeff Smoker, but that does not appear likely anymore. I think I will be satisfied with an 8-4 season, but this is MSU's best opportunity to succeed for a while, so I wish we could accomplish so much more. We have a fairly veteran team, we don't have to play Ohio State, and we don't have to worry about Nebraska yet. I think Mark Dantonio has brought great leadership and impressive recruting to the program, so I am not about to throw him under the bus or put him on any kind of "hot seat". However, I think he and his coaching staff must bring more creativity to the offense. Cousins often looked uncomfortable in the pocket last night when he was pressured and Notre Dame seemed to have much of our play calling strategy figured out. The fake FG in OT was a gutsy call (or perhaps a product of not trusting our new kicker in crunch time) and I would like to see more of that in the future. Especially in big game situations.
The Rest of the NCAA
-Perhaps I underestimated Alabama's capability of making a repeat appearance in the BCS National Championship game. They have run over their opponents so far and the SEC is young this year. The next three weeks will be the real test: @ Arkansas, vs. Florida, @ S. Carolina.
-What does it take for a conference to lose their BCS-protected status? The eight team Big East has more teams with two losses so far (Cincinnati, Louisville, and UConn) than undefeated teams (WVU and Rutgers). Rutgers had a bye this week and almost lost to Florida International last week. The highest ranked Big East team in scoring (S. Florida) is 25th in the country. They are 1-5 against BCS conference teams so far this year and that statistic is about to get much worse. Big East teams play #17 Miami, #7 Oklahoma, and # 15 LSU next week.
-While I'm thinking about it, the ACC needs to improve as well. They also have more two loss teams than undefeated teams. Perhaps they should fight over one automatic BCS bid and call it the "Basketball Powerhouse Conference Championship Game". I'm all for the BPCCG.
-Is Oklahoma good or not? I really don't know. They barely beat Utah State, then destroy Florida State, then squeak by Air Force. They're 18th in the country in passing, but 80th in rushing. 29th in points for, but 62nd in points allowed (surprising since they are known for having a stout defense). With as weak as the Big 12 this year, their October 2nd matchup with Texas should be the only thing standing in the way between them and a Big 12 Championship game matchup with Nebraska.
-Michigan is certainly ecstatic over Denard Robinson, who should have the nickname "RichRod's Job Security". But what about Rodriguez's castoff QBs? Ryan Mallett leads the NCAA in passing yards for Arkansas and Arizona State's Steven Threet is 15th. If Rodriguez would have been willing to adapt his offensive scheme to the talent he had, how much better would U-M have been in the past few years with Mallett on board? Can you imagine Mallett leading the offense with Robinson coming in for trick plays or lining up as a RB?
-Stacey and I will be spending our 1st year anniversary at a resort outside Cleveland going to some wineries. It's going to be very peaceful and beautiful. But how drunk do you think I need to get her to see the Wisconsin game?
The other player who has underwhelmed so far this year is Cousins. MSU is tied for 78th in the country in passing yards per game, but some of that can be attributed to a surprising potent running game, which ranks 16th in YPG and is 5th best in YPA. Cousins does not emit the confidence and decision making skills of a 2nd year quarterback that some labeled the best pro-style QB in the Big 10. He has not established a connection with a solid, "go to" receiver, which is also largely due to Mark Dell's lack of improvement. Drew Sharp called out Cousins this morning by saying, "he is more a game-manager than game-changer". I felt that Cousins was going to be our best quarterback since Jeff Smoker, but that does not appear likely anymore. I think I will be satisfied with an 8-4 season, but this is MSU's best opportunity to succeed for a while, so I wish we could accomplish so much more. We have a fairly veteran team, we don't have to play Ohio State, and we don't have to worry about Nebraska yet. I think Mark Dantonio has brought great leadership and impressive recruting to the program, so I am not about to throw him under the bus or put him on any kind of "hot seat". However, I think he and his coaching staff must bring more creativity to the offense. Cousins often looked uncomfortable in the pocket last night when he was pressured and Notre Dame seemed to have much of our play calling strategy figured out. The fake FG in OT was a gutsy call (or perhaps a product of not trusting our new kicker in crunch time) and I would like to see more of that in the future. Especially in big game situations.
The Rest of the NCAA
-Perhaps I underestimated Alabama's capability of making a repeat appearance in the BCS National Championship game. They have run over their opponents so far and the SEC is young this year. The next three weeks will be the real test: @ Arkansas, vs. Florida, @ S. Carolina.
-What does it take for a conference to lose their BCS-protected status? The eight team Big East has more teams with two losses so far (Cincinnati, Louisville, and UConn) than undefeated teams (WVU and Rutgers). Rutgers had a bye this week and almost lost to Florida International last week. The highest ranked Big East team in scoring (S. Florida) is 25th in the country. They are 1-5 against BCS conference teams so far this year and that statistic is about to get much worse. Big East teams play #17 Miami, #7 Oklahoma, and # 15 LSU next week.
-While I'm thinking about it, the ACC needs to improve as well. They also have more two loss teams than undefeated teams. Perhaps they should fight over one automatic BCS bid and call it the "Basketball Powerhouse Conference Championship Game". I'm all for the BPCCG.
-Is Oklahoma good or not? I really don't know. They barely beat Utah State, then destroy Florida State, then squeak by Air Force. They're 18th in the country in passing, but 80th in rushing. 29th in points for, but 62nd in points allowed (surprising since they are known for having a stout defense). With as weak as the Big 12 this year, their October 2nd matchup with Texas should be the only thing standing in the way between them and a Big 12 Championship game matchup with Nebraska.
-Michigan is certainly ecstatic over Denard Robinson, who should have the nickname "RichRod's Job Security". But what about Rodriguez's castoff QBs? Ryan Mallett leads the NCAA in passing yards for Arkansas and Arizona State's Steven Threet is 15th. If Rodriguez would have been willing to adapt his offensive scheme to the talent he had, how much better would U-M have been in the past few years with Mallett on board? Can you imagine Mallett leading the offense with Robinson coming in for trick plays or lining up as a RB?
-Stacey and I will be spending our 1st year anniversary at a resort outside Cleveland going to some wineries. It's going to be very peaceful and beautiful. But how drunk do you think I need to get her to see the Wisconsin game?
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Another Day in Life
I have been trying to make a change in my life since about April. To this point, I have probably made about 30-40 attempts. I have been able to successfully put myself in a mindset where I am detached from the situation so I leave everything behind and am not complaining about it all day. I am anxious to make the change because I feel like every day that I am still in my current routine, I am disrespecting my mom in some way by settling. You have a limited amount of time on Earth, so it is a waste of that time and energy to not take every advantage you can. She doesn't have those opportunities any more so I feel like I have to make the most out of my time. I want to use my time doing things that are worthwhile and important and this is not it.
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
TLYOTBTAWKI
Yep, this year is the last year of the Big Ten as we know it.
I feel horrible saying this, but part of me is not looking forward to the start of the college football season. It's my favorite sport and Michigan State is on the rise, but living in Columbus is draining.
This is our fourth September in Columbus, so I know the pattern. The season will start out with Buckeye fans sticking out their chest proudly while complaining about every single negative comment made by someone on ESPN criticizing OSU or the quality of the Big 10 (which they directly correlate with OSU). By the third game, they've either lost to another good team or they've won a close game against a cupcake school. At this point, when their pride is hurt, they shut up for a little while. Finally, they will lose a game or two against another top Big 10 team (or worse - a bad Big 10 team). At this point, they throw someone under the bus - Jim Tressel, the O-Line, Terrell Pryor - and spend the rest of the season talking about 8-1... their record against U-M for the past nine years.
This year will be no different because they're ranked #2 and Pryor is a pre-season Heisman favorite. Apparently his performance in the Rose Bowl alone made everyone forget about the complaints they made about him during the regular season last year. With that being said, here is my college football preview. I can't believe it's back already - fall is almost here!
Predicted Big 10 Standings
1. Ohio State
2. Wisconsin
3. Iowa
4. Penn State
5. Michigan State
6. Michigan
7. Purdue
8. Northwestern
9. Minnesota
10. Illinois
11. Indiana
Michigan State Season Outlook
The biggest thing that jumps out when reviewing our schedule is October 23rd - the first time our team leaves the state. HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN??? Who gets six of their first seven games at home?
Western Michigan - W
Very lop-sided victory last year. This year should be much of the same.
Florida Atlantic - W
**Warning** Trap game!!! Our 2008 rain-soaked game felt closer than the 17-0 score indicated. Their best player, QB Rusty Smith, couldn't get going due to the weather. Their new QB, Jeff Vancamp, completed 59% of his passes last year while throwing 12 TDs and only 2 INTs after taking over for the injured Smith halfway through the season.
Notre Dame - W
We should have won this game last season. Knowing Dantonio, he has this one circled on his schedule. It is always a close game and we typicalls alternate W/L with them.
Northern Colorado - W
We need to stop scheduling FCS teams. Interesting fact: In 1999 Northern Colorado QB Corte McGuffey won the Harlon Hill Tropy as the Division II Player of the Year! Let's move on...
Wisconsin - L
Tolzein threw for 2700 yards last year and completed 64% of his passes. Clay rushed for 5.3 YPC. They are returning most of their players, so I don't think we have the talent to keep up. If it is a close game, I think our kicking game costs us this one.
@ Michigan - L
The streak is over. They have a ridiculous ability to overcome any deficit against us. We had to go into overtime to defeat them last year and they only defeated one Big 10 team. I think RichRod looks at this game as one of the "must wins" for him to keep his job.
Illinois - W
Probably the easiest conference game on our schedule.
@ Northwestern - W
They had a great passing game last year, but Kafka is gone.
@ Iowa - L
We haven't won at Kinnick Stadium since 1989!!!
Minnesota - W
We get them after back-to-back games against Penn State and Ohio State.
Purdue - W
If Miami-transfer QB Robert Marve reaches his potential, this game may be close.
@ Penn State - L
We haven't won at Penn State since 1965!!!!!!!!!! (Although we didn't play them between 1966-93)
So I'm predicting 8-4, which happens to be the same thing I predicted last year.
Heisman Predictions
I think the top 3 finalists will be Terrell Pryor, Kellen Moore, and Mark Ingram with Kellen Moore taking the award. My "dark horse" candidate is Dion Lewis - RB from Pitt. I watched him in the game against Cincinnati last year and was blown away.
National Championship
I think that the National Championship game depends on Boise State's ability to go undefeated. They are starting high enough in the polls that they will wind up 1 or 2 if they win out. I don't believe two other teams will go undefeated. If they lose a game, I think that one-loss Ohio State will get their spot. The team that one of them will face? Oklahoma. I'm rooting for the Fiesta Bowl rematch.
Looking Ahead
The reaction today in Columbus to the Big Ten divisional split in Columbus was mixed. The competitive balance seems to be fairly even, but Buckeyes are concerned that "The Game" doesn't mean as much since they are in separate divisions. At least they are keeping it as the last game... for now.
I personally would have divided them up as:
Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State, Northwestern, Illinois (Academia Division)
Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Purdue (Corn-Fed Division)
However, I am fairly happy to be in the division we are. (Our sports radio station dubbed them "Buckeye Division" and "The right to get beaten down by the Buckeyes" division). The teams in our division, Michigan State included, have been very up-and-down in the past decade. The opposite division contains consistency in OSU, Wisco, and Penn State. I am hoping our team will be able to exceed my expectations this year because our 2011 schedule will be brutal. We lost our scheduled games against Illinois, Penn State, and Purdue and gained Nebraska, Northwestern, and Iowa. That doesn't sound very even to me. I predict within the first 3 years of the new Big 10, Nebraska will win the conference at least once.
It's an exciting time in college football right now and I think we can expect major changes to continue in the next 5-10 years.
I feel horrible saying this, but part of me is not looking forward to the start of the college football season. It's my favorite sport and Michigan State is on the rise, but living in Columbus is draining.
This is our fourth September in Columbus, so I know the pattern. The season will start out with Buckeye fans sticking out their chest proudly while complaining about every single negative comment made by someone on ESPN criticizing OSU or the quality of the Big 10 (which they directly correlate with OSU). By the third game, they've either lost to another good team or they've won a close game against a cupcake school. At this point, when their pride is hurt, they shut up for a little while. Finally, they will lose a game or two against another top Big 10 team (or worse - a bad Big 10 team). At this point, they throw someone under the bus - Jim Tressel, the O-Line, Terrell Pryor - and spend the rest of the season talking about 8-1... their record against U-M for the past nine years.
This year will be no different because they're ranked #2 and Pryor is a pre-season Heisman favorite. Apparently his performance in the Rose Bowl alone made everyone forget about the complaints they made about him during the regular season last year. With that being said, here is my college football preview. I can't believe it's back already - fall is almost here!
Predicted Big 10 Standings
1. Ohio State
2. Wisconsin
3. Iowa
4. Penn State
5. Michigan State
6. Michigan
7. Purdue
8. Northwestern
9. Minnesota
10. Illinois
11. Indiana
Michigan State Season Outlook
The biggest thing that jumps out when reviewing our schedule is October 23rd - the first time our team leaves the state. HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN??? Who gets six of their first seven games at home?
Western Michigan - W
Very lop-sided victory last year. This year should be much of the same.
Florida Atlantic - W
**Warning** Trap game!!! Our 2008 rain-soaked game felt closer than the 17-0 score indicated. Their best player, QB Rusty Smith, couldn't get going due to the weather. Their new QB, Jeff Vancamp, completed 59% of his passes last year while throwing 12 TDs and only 2 INTs after taking over for the injured Smith halfway through the season.
Notre Dame - W
We should have won this game last season. Knowing Dantonio, he has this one circled on his schedule. It is always a close game and we typicalls alternate W/L with them.
Northern Colorado - W
We need to stop scheduling FCS teams. Interesting fact: In 1999 Northern Colorado QB Corte McGuffey won the Harlon Hill Tropy as the Division II Player of the Year! Let's move on...
Wisconsin - L
Tolzein threw for 2700 yards last year and completed 64% of his passes. Clay rushed for 5.3 YPC. They are returning most of their players, so I don't think we have the talent to keep up. If it is a close game, I think our kicking game costs us this one.
@ Michigan - L
The streak is over. They have a ridiculous ability to overcome any deficit against us. We had to go into overtime to defeat them last year and they only defeated one Big 10 team. I think RichRod looks at this game as one of the "must wins" for him to keep his job.
Illinois - W
Probably the easiest conference game on our schedule.
@ Northwestern - W
They had a great passing game last year, but Kafka is gone.
@ Iowa - L
We haven't won at Kinnick Stadium since 1989!!!
Minnesota - W
We get them after back-to-back games against Penn State and Ohio State.
Purdue - W
If Miami-transfer QB Robert Marve reaches his potential, this game may be close.
@ Penn State - L
We haven't won at Penn State since 1965!!!!!!!!!! (Although we didn't play them between 1966-93)
So I'm predicting 8-4, which happens to be the same thing I predicted last year.
Heisman Predictions
I think the top 3 finalists will be Terrell Pryor, Kellen Moore, and Mark Ingram with Kellen Moore taking the award. My "dark horse" candidate is Dion Lewis - RB from Pitt. I watched him in the game against Cincinnati last year and was blown away.
National Championship
I think that the National Championship game depends on Boise State's ability to go undefeated. They are starting high enough in the polls that they will wind up 1 or 2 if they win out. I don't believe two other teams will go undefeated. If they lose a game, I think that one-loss Ohio State will get their spot. The team that one of them will face? Oklahoma. I'm rooting for the Fiesta Bowl rematch.
Looking Ahead
The reaction today in Columbus to the Big Ten divisional split in Columbus was mixed. The competitive balance seems to be fairly even, but Buckeyes are concerned that "The Game" doesn't mean as much since they are in separate divisions. At least they are keeping it as the last game... for now.
I personally would have divided them up as:
Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State, Northwestern, Illinois (Academia Division)
Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Purdue (Corn-Fed Division)
However, I am fairly happy to be in the division we are. (Our sports radio station dubbed them "Buckeye Division" and "The right to get beaten down by the Buckeyes" division). The teams in our division, Michigan State included, have been very up-and-down in the past decade. The opposite division contains consistency in OSU, Wisco, and Penn State. I am hoping our team will be able to exceed my expectations this year because our 2011 schedule will be brutal. We lost our scheduled games against Illinois, Penn State, and Purdue and gained Nebraska, Northwestern, and Iowa. That doesn't sound very even to me. I predict within the first 3 years of the new Big 10, Nebraska will win the conference at least once.
It's an exciting time in college football right now and I think we can expect major changes to continue in the next 5-10 years.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Draft Room
I wrote this shortly before the fantasy draft. My post-draft thoughts are in italics.
I have a very clear idea of what I want to draft each round. I practiced it in a mock draft and was pretty successful. The positions I want each round are:
1 - RB (I know I'm taking CJ)
2/3 - QB & WR
Rivers & Wayne
4/5 - WR & RB
Ryan Grant & Boldin
6/7 - QB & TE
Eli and Vernon Davis
8/9 - RB & WR
85 and Jonathan Stewart
10/11 - DEF & RB
Green Bay and Kyle Orton - I noticed that solid QB options were flying away, so I knew it was time to get #3
12/13 - WR & QB
Malcom Floyd and Felix Jones (because I took the QB in the previous round)
14/15 - WR & K
Kenny Britt, Matt Forte, and Kicker - forgot there were 16 rounds
I came up with this plan to address each position in the optimal timeframe. I want to have a top-tier player at RB, QB, and WR, so I think it makes most sense to take one in each of the first three rounds. I don't think a round 4 QB will be too different from a round 6/7, so that is why I am fine with waiting to find my second string QB. The only reason why I would divert from this strategy is if there is someone too tempting left on the board (like Ryan Mathews in round 2/3).
Interestingly enough, Ryan Mathews was there!! It was a hard decision and I took a minute to make up my mind. In the end, taking a rookie RB was too risky to forfeit a solid QB and WR with years of strong results. I am really happy with how the strategy worked out. It was a lot safer than being tempted by who was the "best available" and screwing myself in the end at one position. I ended up picking a lot of the "safer" players than newer starters.
As for the QB selection timing, the round 4 QBs were Flacco and Cutler while the round 6/7 QBs were Matt Ryan, Kevin Kolb, Eli (the one I got), and McNabb. Point proven.
Players I like for their potential increased value (I'm not going to say "upside"!): Terrell Owens, Steve Breaston, Matt Moore, Chad Henne, Jerome Harrison, Cedric Benson, Chris Cooley
...and I didn't get any of them. Breaston, Moore, and Harrison are even Free Agents! I wish I would have gotten Benson - I was three picks too late. I am thinking about making a move to pick up a free agent or two, but I think it's best to wait until closer to the start of the season. I want to see who ends up starting in a number of slots.
Players I am probably over-valuing: Jahvid Best, Carson Palmer, Austin Collie, Kellen Winslow
Collie and Winslow are also available post-draft. I am hopeful for Jahvid, but I am very concerned about our O-line's ability to open a crack.
Players I don't like: Brett Favre, Mark Sanchez, Shonn Greene, Steven Jackson, Hines Ward, Brandon Marshall
Interesting that four of these six players went to two teams (and also appear on Mike's worst pick list). In retrospect, the only one I think that went at the right time was SJax. The others were taken too early.
I have a very clear idea of what I want to draft each round. I practiced it in a mock draft and was pretty successful. The positions I want each round are:
1 - RB (I know I'm taking CJ)
2/3 - QB & WR
Rivers & Wayne
4/5 - WR & RB
Ryan Grant & Boldin
6/7 - QB & TE
Eli and Vernon Davis
8/9 - RB & WR
85 and Jonathan Stewart
10/11 - DEF & RB
Green Bay and Kyle Orton - I noticed that solid QB options were flying away, so I knew it was time to get #3
12/13 - WR & QB
Malcom Floyd and Felix Jones (because I took the QB in the previous round)
14/15 - WR & K
Kenny Britt, Matt Forte, and Kicker - forgot there were 16 rounds
I came up with this plan to address each position in the optimal timeframe. I want to have a top-tier player at RB, QB, and WR, so I think it makes most sense to take one in each of the first three rounds. I don't think a round 4 QB will be too different from a round 6/7, so that is why I am fine with waiting to find my second string QB. The only reason why I would divert from this strategy is if there is someone too tempting left on the board (like Ryan Mathews in round 2/3).
Interestingly enough, Ryan Mathews was there!! It was a hard decision and I took a minute to make up my mind. In the end, taking a rookie RB was too risky to forfeit a solid QB and WR with years of strong results. I am really happy with how the strategy worked out. It was a lot safer than being tempted by who was the "best available" and screwing myself in the end at one position. I ended up picking a lot of the "safer" players than newer starters.
As for the QB selection timing, the round 4 QBs were Flacco and Cutler while the round 6/7 QBs were Matt Ryan, Kevin Kolb, Eli (the one I got), and McNabb. Point proven.
Players I like for their potential increased value (I'm not going to say "upside"!): Terrell Owens, Steve Breaston, Matt Moore, Chad Henne, Jerome Harrison, Cedric Benson, Chris Cooley
...and I didn't get any of them. Breaston, Moore, and Harrison are even Free Agents! I wish I would have gotten Benson - I was three picks too late. I am thinking about making a move to pick up a free agent or two, but I think it's best to wait until closer to the start of the season. I want to see who ends up starting in a number of slots.
Players I am probably over-valuing: Jahvid Best, Carson Palmer, Austin Collie, Kellen Winslow
Collie and Winslow are also available post-draft. I am hopeful for Jahvid, but I am very concerned about our O-line's ability to open a crack.
Players I don't like: Brett Favre, Mark Sanchez, Shonn Greene, Steven Jackson, Hines Ward, Brandon Marshall
Interesting that four of these six players went to two teams (and also appear on Mike's worst pick list). In retrospect, the only one I think that went at the right time was SJax. The others were taken too early.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Chicago White Sox
Our White Sox experience started off horribly. We waited in traffic for 30 minutes after getting off the highway to park. About a block before we got to the lot, the police officer closed the street and started re-routing people around... to the place where we got off the highway. We were directed to a lot in a small college across the highway that was a mile away from the stadium. The fee?? $23. I forked the money over and tried to forget about it.
U.S. Cellular is a stadium that is not sure whether it is old school or new. It features ivy covered walls in centerfield and a traditional monochromatic lightbulb scoreboard in left that are reminiscent of its crosstown rival. They play organ music, except it usually involves modern pop songs like "Poker Face". My favorite feature was the most detailed "around the league" LED scoreboard I've ever seen. It displays players on base as well as the current pitchers and batters for every game around the league. They do a great job with giving fans interesting "did you know" stats during the game.
The first thing that I associate with U.S. Cellular Field are the 1970s fair-ride-pinwheels on the top of its scoreboard. I don't know the history or significance of the pinwheels, but I don't like them. The dimensions of the stadium make it feel very large. The steep upper deck is positioned very close to the field, creating great views from the cheap seats (which we retreated to in attempt to get out of the sun). The scaffolding behind the outfield seats closes in the ballpark and intensifies the crowd volume. 
For lunch, I had the "Chicago dog". It starts out with mustard and onions (no surprise). Next there is the brightest green relish ever. Then some tomatoes (kind of like "unprocessed ketchup" - I do without). Then a pickle (often comes on the side, but let's pile it on top). And then whole hot peppers (for some spice). Then celery salt (no idea). The White Sox version was pretty good, but the concessions lines are horrible. Stacey was gone for at least an inning and a half (I honestly started to get worried). When I got my Chicago dog, it seemed like the person made every attempt to take their sweet ass time. Wednesday, August 04, 2010
Washington Nationals
The first unique aspect of Nationals Stadium that I noticed while walking to it was the centerfield entrance. That is the main concourse of the stadium since it is the closest to the metro and faces the city. The traditional home plate entrance has a facade that reminds me of the old Yankee Stadium. The path leading up to it has a list of important years to the team (that I ignored). This is all a complete waste because nobody uses this entrance. I took this picture 10 minutes before the game began. 
The most impressive feature of the inside of the stadium is the large video scoreboard. The Nationals website boasts that it is a 4,500 square foot HD screen. The rest of the stadium, however, is fairly boring. The design is "prototypical 21st century ballpark". The background scenery includes the parking garage and a few nondescript buildings. The placement is a curious decision because they would have a great view of the capital if the stadium would have been rotated 10-20 degrees counterclockwise. Another overlooked feature is the centerfield lawn (the spot where Zimmerman's walk-off home run landed). The lawn and the gap to the right of it look out of place. The park as a whole seems fairly "cookie cutter".The prices for tickets and food at the Nationals Stadium were high compared to other parks, but is understandable compared to the rest of D.C. The biggest surprise from the entertainment department were the fireworks blasted off at the beginning of the game and after the win. It was a great way to stir up excitement for the game. Although, that energy was killed immediately by the boring, slow, out of place music between innings. Outside of the logical "Oversized Head Presidents Race", they offered little else in terms of entertainment and promotions. Overall, the ballpark and the stadium atmosphere was decent, but forgettable.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Music to your ears?
Saw this guy on Ellen today. You might wonder why he's singing in a weird Russian accent until the end. I love that he's wearing a Tiger's jersey.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Project Complete
I think one of the most satisfying things about owning a home is completing projects (and not having to hear babies cry at 3am or walk through geese poop everywhere). When we moved in, the flower bed by our deck was very incomplete. It was clear that the previous owners intended on working on it but stopped once they sold the house to us. In fact, they left a bag of mulch sitting in the middle of it.
Stacey and I renovated the garden over the course of two weekends. We started by raking up the existing mulch and evening the dirt out a little more. The next step unexpectedly took the longest - we found a stump on the right side. Instead of hiring someone to remove it, we dug it out. The problem was, one removed root lead to another, and another... I used every tool imaginable to get it out one piece at a time. I used my hand saw (thanks Mike), hedge clippers (thanks again), garden sheers, power drill, shovel, spade, a newly purchased hatchet - basically anything that would cut or dig. We finally got a satisfactory amount of it out, so we planted everything. The next step was placing the hexagonal stones (22lbs a piece) and digging enough ground out to make them level. After that, we spread this weed-preventing plastic sheet across the whole thing. Finally, we spread the old mulch with the new stuff on top of it.
When all was said and done, we got:
45 bricks
6 bags of mulch (to add to the one the previous owners left us)
wine rose plant
purple hybiscus bush
3 sets of lillies
spiral pine tree
We only spent $130-150, which I think is pretty good for a pretty sizeable gardening project.
BEFORE
AFTER
Stacey and I renovated the garden over the course of two weekends. We started by raking up the existing mulch and evening the dirt out a little more. The next step unexpectedly took the longest - we found a stump on the right side. Instead of hiring someone to remove it, we dug it out. The problem was, one removed root lead to another, and another... I used every tool imaginable to get it out one piece at a time. I used my hand saw (thanks Mike), hedge clippers (thanks again), garden sheers, power drill, shovel, spade, a newly purchased hatchet - basically anything that would cut or dig. We finally got a satisfactory amount of it out, so we planted everything. The next step was placing the hexagonal stones (22lbs a piece) and digging enough ground out to make them level. After that, we spread this weed-preventing plastic sheet across the whole thing. Finally, we spread the old mulch with the new stuff on top of it.
When all was said and done, we got:
45 bricks
6 bags of mulch (to add to the one the previous owners left us)
wine rose plant
purple hybiscus bush
3 sets of lillies
spiral pine tree
We only spent $130-150, which I think is pretty good for a pretty sizeable gardening project.
BEFORE
AFTER
Thursday, July 08, 2010
The Reaction
While the whole LeBron saga has been overblown and everyone's probably sick of it, I have a lot of thoughts on the situation that I wanted to discuss.
I am not sure if you're going to believe me, but right after the Cavs lost in the playoffs this year, I predicted he would land in Miami. I came to that conclusion because Wade seemed like the only one was going to recruit free agents to come to his team and the organization has a recently won a championship. Plus, it's freaking Miami beach.
As important as this announcement is for Miami, however, another critical question mark is who else will be on their team. Winning the championship is not going to be as easy as just showing up. You can't even pencil them into the Finals next year. The talent in the NBA right now is consolidating. In the East, I feel the current rank is Boston, Miami, Chicago, Orlando. In the West, it is the Lakers and then in distant second the Nuggets and Mavs. Should one of the three get injured for much of next year, the team's status would drop quite a bit. There is still a lot to learn about this team and how they will gel with their coach.
I don't feel too bad for the Cleveland fans. He gave them seven years and the team in return was not able to surround him with enough talent to win the championship. You can't blame him for leaving for "greedy reasons" because he would have made more money contractually by staying in Cleveland. Ultimately, his job and his goal is to win a title. His career is much more limited than the average person's due to physical limitations. If he has a better opportunity to win somewhere else, and accomplish his goal, it makes sense for him to leave. I'll allow you to be upset for the weekend about the public parade that he created to announce the decision - then get over that :) The people I do feel bad for is business owners near Quicken Loans Arena. They're going to lose a lot of business because of something they can't affect.
One writer on Sports Illustrated's website wrote a scathing article on ESPN's decision to produce a show for LeBron. He attacked the network's journalistic integrity and ridiculed how overblown the story has become. While I agree that parts of the show were questionable (allowing LeBron to hand pick his interviewer, calling him "King James" 10,000 times during the broadcast), they didn't shy away from the tough questions. They showed footage from Cleveland of people lighting his jersey on fire and asked for his reactions. If SI or any other sports news outlet was offered exclusivity to broadcast the event, there's no question they would've done it.
If Tom Izzo had gone the other way, what is he thinking tonight? It is kind of interesting that he left money on the table for a better chance at success and so did LeBron. Although, once LeBron starts winning championships, he is going to make way more money than he would have if he stayed in Cleveland and his championship drought continued.
What happens to the giant LeBron Nike billboard that is in Cleveland across from the arena? Is it still up? Did someone burn it down tonight?
I am not sure if you're going to believe me, but right after the Cavs lost in the playoffs this year, I predicted he would land in Miami. I came to that conclusion because Wade seemed like the only one was going to recruit free agents to come to his team and the organization has a recently won a championship. Plus, it's freaking Miami beach.
As important as this announcement is for Miami, however, another critical question mark is who else will be on their team. Winning the championship is not going to be as easy as just showing up. You can't even pencil them into the Finals next year. The talent in the NBA right now is consolidating. In the East, I feel the current rank is Boston, Miami, Chicago, Orlando. In the West, it is the Lakers and then in distant second the Nuggets and Mavs. Should one of the three get injured for much of next year, the team's status would drop quite a bit. There is still a lot to learn about this team and how they will gel with their coach.
I don't feel too bad for the Cleveland fans. He gave them seven years and the team in return was not able to surround him with enough talent to win the championship. You can't blame him for leaving for "greedy reasons" because he would have made more money contractually by staying in Cleveland. Ultimately, his job and his goal is to win a title. His career is much more limited than the average person's due to physical limitations. If he has a better opportunity to win somewhere else, and accomplish his goal, it makes sense for him to leave. I'll allow you to be upset for the weekend about the public parade that he created to announce the decision - then get over that :) The people I do feel bad for is business owners near Quicken Loans Arena. They're going to lose a lot of business because of something they can't affect.
One writer on Sports Illustrated's website wrote a scathing article on ESPN's decision to produce a show for LeBron. He attacked the network's journalistic integrity and ridiculed how overblown the story has become. While I agree that parts of the show were questionable (allowing LeBron to hand pick his interviewer, calling him "King James" 10,000 times during the broadcast), they didn't shy away from the tough questions. They showed footage from Cleveland of people lighting his jersey on fire and asked for his reactions. If SI or any other sports news outlet was offered exclusivity to broadcast the event, there's no question they would've done it.
If Tom Izzo had gone the other way, what is he thinking tonight? It is kind of interesting that he left money on the table for a better chance at success and so did LeBron. Although, once LeBron starts winning championships, he is going to make way more money than he would have if he stayed in Cleveland and his championship drought continued.
What happens to the giant LeBron Nike billboard that is in Cleveland across from the arena? Is it still up? Did someone burn it down tonight?
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
NBA Superstar
Quick - who came in second to LeBron James in the MVP voting?
He also lead the NBA in scoring this year.
I don't pay attention to pro basketball either, so I was surprised to hear it was Kevin Durant. I am quickly becoming a KD fan.
I thought it was pretty cool to see him at the NBA Draft. He was genuinely excited to see how it would all play out and seemed to want to meet his new teammates immediately. And that's what makes him unique - he is a young talent who has been a great teammate. Today, he showed up at the Summer League game to cheer on his potential teammates. Nobody goes to the Summer League games! They only have one row of chairs!
His excitement for all things NBA is palpable and commendable. And the NBA has taken note. He has done a lot of outreach for the NBA and Nike recently, including going to China.
To juxtapose Durant's team-attitude with the prevailing "build me a team so I can win a championship" attitude from this year's free agency class would be an oversimplified comparison. However, you have to recognize that Durant's enthusiasm and devotion is rare. This comes from a person who was drafted by a lame-duck franchise that was moved to a small market in the midwest. I'm sold on Kevin Durant as one of the best players and one of the most admirable personalities in the NBA.
He also lead the NBA in scoring this year.
I don't pay attention to pro basketball either, so I was surprised to hear it was Kevin Durant. I am quickly becoming a KD fan.
I thought it was pretty cool to see him at the NBA Draft. He was genuinely excited to see how it would all play out and seemed to want to meet his new teammates immediately. And that's what makes him unique - he is a young talent who has been a great teammate. Today, he showed up at the Summer League game to cheer on his potential teammates. Nobody goes to the Summer League games! They only have one row of chairs!
His excitement for all things NBA is palpable and commendable. And the NBA has taken note. He has done a lot of outreach for the NBA and Nike recently, including going to China.
To juxtapose Durant's team-attitude with the prevailing "build me a team so I can win a championship" attitude from this year's free agency class would be an oversimplified comparison. However, you have to recognize that Durant's enthusiasm and devotion is rare. This comes from a person who was drafted by a lame-duck franchise that was moved to a small market in the midwest. I'm sold on Kevin Durant as one of the best players and one of the most admirable personalities in the NBA.
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