Grumbling and humbling
This weekend in the CFL was again one led by special teams. Chris Williams had 2 return touchdowns and caught another as the Ti-Cats got George Cortez and Andy Fantuz their first victories of the season.
Drew Tate went down with a shoulder injury last week and is now done for the year. This can be good news for the Stamps as they have a veteran backup who has led teams to the playoffs in Winnipeg (including a Grey Cup in '07) and Hamilton under Marcel Bellefeuille.
Edmonton finally had an offensive game that wasn't offensive. They destroyed the Blue Bombers who are going to be looking for a new quarterback after Buck Pierce and Alex Brink were destroyed with injuries. Looks like Brink will start this week with Joey Elliot backing him up on the road yet again. On the positive note....the Winnipeg fans can spend all of October and November in the friendly weather and confines of the fantastic Canad Inns Stadium.
If you said that 3 weeks into the CFL season that the Riders would be 3-0 with no turnovers, I would have sent you to the looney bin. But here we are 3 weeks in and that is the case. The first return for a touchdown since Jason Armstead came back. The first missed field goal return since Reaganomics was in effect. Tristan Jackson took one back 129 yards. While some people think that there was a clip on the play, and there might have been but regardless the zebras made a mistake and it benefitted the Riders. Just like various other calls, it is a part of the game and the Riders capitalized and T-Jack took it back to the house.
People are saying what is the difference between the 2011 and 2012 Riders. There are 3 main things, a bonafide qb coach, a coach who promotes and demotes based on performance and the energy that Odell Willis brings out of the huddle each time. That wasn't there last year, as the team came out flat and unmotivated. Mind you when you are led by Matlock and crew it can be expected.
Thats all for now. See you all soon.
Ryan
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Monday, September 7, 2009
Labour Day Weekend
This weekend was the start of labour day. The weekend started with the BC Place time clock issue. In the last couple minutes of the game, on a third and one, Montreal snapped the ball and pitched to Avon Cobourne who ran in for a touchdown. But the time clock did not run and the play was called back. Montreal was then stopped on the subsequent down, and BC ran in for a touchdown. This cost Montreal the game and BC seemded to walk out for a victory thanks to a homefield "advantage". David Braley really must have something good on the league to allow this to go through.
Sam Bradford, Oklahomas big name senior qb went down with an injury. He suffered a sprain of this shoulder and it ultimately cost his team a victory against BYU. This is a huge loss for the Sooners but Oklahoma is a deep team and will make some noise this year still.
Am I the only one who is happy that Oregon RB Lagarette Blount is suspended for the year. The punch to the boise state player was uncalled for. Maybe anger management is a better degree for this player.
This was a weird weekend for college football. Navy was one 2 point convert away from a suprise upset of Ohio State and, Iowa blocked back to back field goals to beat Northern Iowa.
Mississippi and Kent Austin look like a well oiled machine beating Memphis 45-14. I must be the only one who thinks that the one qb who will make a bigger splash in this years draft if he goes is Jevan Snead. He has Austins tutelege and that will transform into a professional mindset already.
The Riders beat Winnipeg in the annual Labour Day Classic. Here are some points.
Rob Bagg is the most under rated receiver in the league. The one handed catch and his YAC are incredible. He also takes huge hits and is not afraid to run across the middle.
John Chick is a monster on the end. More than one time he just pushed his O-lineman out of the way to pursue Bishop.
Tad Kornegay had a great game. He was all over the field and make some huge plays.
Michael Bishop has everything you want in a quarterback except a clue. He looked lost out there and having the other qbs throw up whiteboards with the play says something about his intelligence.
Wes Cates had a great game. The screen passes and his view of the field was incredible. He really came to play after that embarrassment in Montreal.
James Patrick had his best game as a safety, coming in on the blitz and helping control Fred Reid.
Why did Winnipeg not go for a field goal or try a qb plunge on the last play of the half. I would have taken the sure points rather than try a play that risks not getting any points.
Tonight starts a double header with Toronto in hamilton. Since Toronto cant win at home maybe they can win on the road. Toronto has nothing going for them, but Hamilton finally has something new in their vocabulary.....hope. The 401 series is going to be intense especially with Arland Bruce on the other side of the field this time around and how will Toronto react with his antics this game
Next is the game of the week in my opinion. The week 7 game between Calgary and Edmonton was a classic going down to the last play literally, and Fred Stamps putting a stamp on the Stampeders in defeat. Kitwana Jones came out and called Calgary cocky and arrogant. Lets see how the Stampeders react to those comments and also how the Eskimos respond to any antics the Stampeders will perform. I am anxious to see this one and the rematch Friday in edmonton.
Sam Bradford, Oklahomas big name senior qb went down with an injury. He suffered a sprain of this shoulder and it ultimately cost his team a victory against BYU. This is a huge loss for the Sooners but Oklahoma is a deep team and will make some noise this year still.
Am I the only one who is happy that Oregon RB Lagarette Blount is suspended for the year. The punch to the boise state player was uncalled for. Maybe anger management is a better degree for this player.
This was a weird weekend for college football. Navy was one 2 point convert away from a suprise upset of Ohio State and, Iowa blocked back to back field goals to beat Northern Iowa.
Mississippi and Kent Austin look like a well oiled machine beating Memphis 45-14. I must be the only one who thinks that the one qb who will make a bigger splash in this years draft if he goes is Jevan Snead. He has Austins tutelege and that will transform into a professional mindset already.
The Riders beat Winnipeg in the annual Labour Day Classic. Here are some points.
Rob Bagg is the most under rated receiver in the league. The one handed catch and his YAC are incredible. He also takes huge hits and is not afraid to run across the middle.
John Chick is a monster on the end. More than one time he just pushed his O-lineman out of the way to pursue Bishop.
Tad Kornegay had a great game. He was all over the field and make some huge plays.
Michael Bishop has everything you want in a quarterback except a clue. He looked lost out there and having the other qbs throw up whiteboards with the play says something about his intelligence.
Wes Cates had a great game. The screen passes and his view of the field was incredible. He really came to play after that embarrassment in Montreal.
James Patrick had his best game as a safety, coming in on the blitz and helping control Fred Reid.
Why did Winnipeg not go for a field goal or try a qb plunge on the last play of the half. I would have taken the sure points rather than try a play that risks not getting any points.
Tonight starts a double header with Toronto in hamilton. Since Toronto cant win at home maybe they can win on the road. Toronto has nothing going for them, but Hamilton finally has something new in their vocabulary.....hope. The 401 series is going to be intense especially with Arland Bruce on the other side of the field this time around and how will Toronto react with his antics this game
Next is the game of the week in my opinion. The week 7 game between Calgary and Edmonton was a classic going down to the last play literally, and Fred Stamps putting a stamp on the Stampeders in defeat. Kitwana Jones came out and called Calgary cocky and arrogant. Lets see how the Stampeders react to those comments and also how the Eskimos respond to any antics the Stampeders will perform. I am anxious to see this one and the rematch Friday in edmonton.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thursday's Trash
Well its only 7 days until the NFL season officially opens with Pittsburgh and Tennessee. We are also entering the opening season of college football this week, and while I post this I am watching NC State vs South Carolina. Rider prospect Russell Wilson isnt looking too sharp this game but its only the first game this year.
Roughrider superstar Andy Fantuz has refuted the story of Dave Naylor stating he hasnt made any official news regarding him going to the NFL this off season. If I was Tillman I would be doing a one year and an option, have him here next year then move down south with us retaining his rights for 2011 if possible. Either way this is an unneeded distraction for the Riders, and needs to be fixed ASAP.
Michael Vick is being reinstated to the Eagles in week 3. This is great news. I feel that he deserves a second chance and is truly remorseful. Here is a guy who went from making millions of dollars to losing it all by killing innocent animals for his entertainment. Vick spent nighs in prison making 12 cents/hour as a janitor. I believe he is remorseful for his actions and deserves a second chance. Lets see him do something with his talent and a great team this year.
I am going to start doing a brief NFL preview of each team starting today. This week I am looking at 2 division in the NFC. I see the NFC has having 2 very strong divisions and 2 weak divisions. The NFC East and NFC South each have 4 solid teams.
The NFC East consists of Dallas, Washington, Philadelphia and the NY Giants.
The Eagles are the favorite in most experts eyes. They have a great qb in Donovan McNabb, 2 fast young receivers in Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Bryan Westbrook is a back that can do everything along with Lesean McCoy (rookie drated out of Pittsburgh). The Eagles also boast a great defense with 2 all pro cornerbacks, and a some solid linebackers and a great defensive line. Prediction 2nd NFC East.
The Giants are an enigmatic team. They have a good qb in Eli Manning, excellent running backs in Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. The loss if Derrick Ward is big though. Receivers are young and unproven but have great raw skills. The defensive line of Tuck, Osi, and Kiwanuka are a great rotation. Antonio Pierce anchors a solid linebacking core, and a young they have a young but athletic secondary. These guys also have a super bowl from 2 years ago and have a winning culture. Prediction 1st overall.
The Cowboys are America's richest sports franchise. They are going into a new billion dollar stadium. They lost the cancer Terrell Owens and replaced him with the sure handed quiet guy Roy Williams. The Cowboys have incredible talent on both sides of the ball, but are too often the victims of outside distractions. This year will be no different. 3rd place finish, and the worst home record in the NFC East, due to the fact that this new stadium has alienated the blue collared people for corporate money.
The Washington Redskins are a mockery of good management. They pursued Jay Cutler, Byron Leftwich, Mark Sanchez, and probably Michael Vick, all while having a great qb in Jason Campbell. They also signed another Rider prospect in Chase Daniel who looks well and have NCAA gunslinger Colt Brennan. These are all young good qbs. Develop them. I like the running game the Redskins have with Portis and Betts. Chris Cooley is a solid TE, Antwaan Randel El and Santana Moss are above average receivers. This is a team with the tools for a good offense and an very good defense. Albert Haynesworth is a beast on teh line, LaRon Landry is becoming an all pro safety. Brian Orokpo is going to be an impact player in 2 years. This is a great team with a lot of potential but Dan Snyder needs to let this team develop and not force it. When he gets his nose in the team will falter. If he lets Jim Zorn run the team they can be a 2nd or 3rd place team. Prediciton 4th place due to Snyders addiction to place his nose in to ruin his team som more.
Recently we had the potential to see Aerosmith, ACDC, ZZ top all in Regina, and the Offspring and Green Day in Saskatoon. These are some huge names coming through the province like the comedy of Howie Mandel. I wonder if the banker gives you a deal on ticket prices!!! Legendary crooner Tony Bennett is coming to town along with country superstarts Brooks and Dunn and country icon Alan Jackson. I know of people who say Regina has nothing to offer but these are some quality shows coming to town. Pop grunge act Collective Soul is also taking their tunes to Casino Regina. Also coming is Matt Dusk a young crooner. This place has a lot happening in the near future.
Am I the only one who enjoys watching games in Boise State. The blue field is unique and the fans are rabid. The fans love their team. If you really want to see the best football game ever you should watch the 2007 Fiesta bowl between Boise State and Oklahoma. Best finish to a game I have ever seen.
Roughrider superstar Andy Fantuz has refuted the story of Dave Naylor stating he hasnt made any official news regarding him going to the NFL this off season. If I was Tillman I would be doing a one year and an option, have him here next year then move down south with us retaining his rights for 2011 if possible. Either way this is an unneeded distraction for the Riders, and needs to be fixed ASAP.
Michael Vick is being reinstated to the Eagles in week 3. This is great news. I feel that he deserves a second chance and is truly remorseful. Here is a guy who went from making millions of dollars to losing it all by killing innocent animals for his entertainment. Vick spent nighs in prison making 12 cents/hour as a janitor. I believe he is remorseful for his actions and deserves a second chance. Lets see him do something with his talent and a great team this year.
I am going to start doing a brief NFL preview of each team starting today. This week I am looking at 2 division in the NFC. I see the NFC has having 2 very strong divisions and 2 weak divisions. The NFC East and NFC South each have 4 solid teams.
The NFC East consists of Dallas, Washington, Philadelphia and the NY Giants.
The Eagles are the favorite in most experts eyes. They have a great qb in Donovan McNabb, 2 fast young receivers in Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Bryan Westbrook is a back that can do everything along with Lesean McCoy (rookie drated out of Pittsburgh). The Eagles also boast a great defense with 2 all pro cornerbacks, and a some solid linebackers and a great defensive line. Prediction 2nd NFC East.
The Giants are an enigmatic team. They have a good qb in Eli Manning, excellent running backs in Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. The loss if Derrick Ward is big though. Receivers are young and unproven but have great raw skills. The defensive line of Tuck, Osi, and Kiwanuka are a great rotation. Antonio Pierce anchors a solid linebacking core, and a young they have a young but athletic secondary. These guys also have a super bowl from 2 years ago and have a winning culture. Prediction 1st overall.
The Cowboys are America's richest sports franchise. They are going into a new billion dollar stadium. They lost the cancer Terrell Owens and replaced him with the sure handed quiet guy Roy Williams. The Cowboys have incredible talent on both sides of the ball, but are too often the victims of outside distractions. This year will be no different. 3rd place finish, and the worst home record in the NFC East, due to the fact that this new stadium has alienated the blue collared people for corporate money.
The Washington Redskins are a mockery of good management. They pursued Jay Cutler, Byron Leftwich, Mark Sanchez, and probably Michael Vick, all while having a great qb in Jason Campbell. They also signed another Rider prospect in Chase Daniel who looks well and have NCAA gunslinger Colt Brennan. These are all young good qbs. Develop them. I like the running game the Redskins have with Portis and Betts. Chris Cooley is a solid TE, Antwaan Randel El and Santana Moss are above average receivers. This is a team with the tools for a good offense and an very good defense. Albert Haynesworth is a beast on teh line, LaRon Landry is becoming an all pro safety. Brian Orokpo is going to be an impact player in 2 years. This is a great team with a lot of potential but Dan Snyder needs to let this team develop and not force it. When he gets his nose in the team will falter. If he lets Jim Zorn run the team they can be a 2nd or 3rd place team. Prediciton 4th place due to Snyders addiction to place his nose in to ruin his team som more.
Recently we had the potential to see Aerosmith, ACDC, ZZ top all in Regina, and the Offspring and Green Day in Saskatoon. These are some huge names coming through the province like the comedy of Howie Mandel. I wonder if the banker gives you a deal on ticket prices!!! Legendary crooner Tony Bennett is coming to town along with country superstarts Brooks and Dunn and country icon Alan Jackson. I know of people who say Regina has nothing to offer but these are some quality shows coming to town. Pop grunge act Collective Soul is also taking their tunes to Casino Regina. Also coming is Matt Dusk a young crooner. This place has a lot happening in the near future.
Am I the only one who enjoys watching games in Boise State. The blue field is unique and the fans are rabid. The fans love their team. If you really want to see the best football game ever you should watch the 2007 Fiesta bowl between Boise State and Oklahoma. Best finish to a game I have ever seen.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Grumblings and fumblings.
The sports business world has really gotten to me in so many ways. Guaranteed contracts, prolonged career to stand in the spotlight one more time. Trade clauses, and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The first is the absurd contracts that rookies are receiving in sports these days. These are players who have not proven themselves at the maximum level. These are players who are using their stats achieved at a lower level of competition to negotiate large contracts. He signed a 6 year 72 million dollar contract and hasn't even thrown an NFL pass. He is guaranteed 41.7 million dollars. A person who has done nothing is making 41.7 million dollars, yet there are other players who have proven themselves that are making less money. What is wrong with this picture?? Then a rookie holds out for guaranteed money and a contract similar to those who were drafted around or ahead of him(eg Michael Crabtree.) Why should the team who drafted you have to give you a contract better than the returning players who want to play in that city. Players who show up to training camp and do the 2-a-days. Players who go to weight training on their own, work out with other team member to be better. Why should a rookie who is using stats achieved against a lower competition get more money than a proven veteran player. Where is the logic.
The next thing that irks me is no-trade clauses. What were GMs thinking giving players the right to decide where they can and cannot play. I agree that the players do have a say in this but the job of the GM is to make the team better. The 2 players that come to mind right now are Thomas Kaberle and Dany Heatley. Thomas Kaberle squashed a trade to the Canadiens and a trade to the Bruins both of which would have given the Maple Leafs the top 6 forward that is needed to make their team a bonafide contender. Yes I agree that no player wants to be traded or if they do its for a legitimate reason. But if that player is being traded, why should he get a choice of where he goes. This is absurd. The real reason for this one is the famous Dany Heatley. Mr. Heatley voided 2 trades, one which was to go to Edmonton for 2 top 6 forwards, a top 4 defenseman, and Dany Heatley would have the ice time and responsibilities that he feels he wants. Yes, players should have some say in being traded or not, but if they do want to be traded, the trade should be to a place that benefits both teams, and not a place that accomodates a players wishes and handcuffs his team.
The third one that gets me is Brett Favre. Here is a (with all due respect to Barney Stinson)legend...wait for it.....airy player. Brett holds nearly every substantial quarterbacking record and is a 3 time MVP, and superbowl winner. But here is a player who has single handedly nearly ruined 2 teams and the career development of 3 players. Brett Favre's indecisiveness forced the team in which he wrote the record book, Green Bay Packers, to trade him to the New York Jets. This was to give Aaron Rodgers the chance he deserved after 3 years of stting on a bench and holding a clipboard. A chance which he took by the horns and is looking like a future franchise quarterback. Favre then goes to the Jets, takes over the starting job and sends promising qb Kellen Clemens to the bench and starter Chad Pennington to the Dolphins who roll into the playoffs and Favre back to his ranch in Mississippi to ride around on his lawn mower, promoting Wrangler Jeans. This hindered the development of Clemens and now hes backing up rookie Mark Sanchez and his guaranteed contract yet only having 16 games starting at a NCAA level (see above grumbling). Favre then "retires" and goes back to Mississippi. Then the Minnesota Vikings come calling in May asking Brett to join the team. He declines and does so until 2 weeks are left in training camp. For 2 months Mr. Favre told the Vikings he was retired and didnt want to play. Then with 2 weeks left in camp, Brett decides he wants to play and signs a contract for 2 more years. Meanwhile the Vikings have 2 good young qbs in camp by the names of Sage Rosenfels and Tavaris Jackson. These guys now arent getting the snaps or reps to get any experience, and again Favre has held back the progress and development of 2 more players. Here is a guy who has hindered 2 teams and 4 players for his desire to play. He isnt a team player, nor one who can ever say goodbye. A legacy has been tarnished by a players desire to stay in the spotlight.
Next is the BCS. The NCAA is great for watching. I myself am a fan of college football and love the Big 12 and SEC. These have the best teams, and often the best players. But the problem is how can you determine a national champion with one game between 2 teams. Last year Oklahoma played Florida for the title. Texas was great last year, Texas Tech had a phenomenal year. USC, had a good year and Utah went undefeated. Why dont these guys have a shot at the title. Bring in a tournament and have that determine the champion. Not only does this give us a clear, defined champion but also rids us of any debate of who is the best team. I know its against tradition, but it helps us eliminate the debates that have gone on for years about who is the "true national champion".
With college football coming up this weekend. The excitement starts, and I can tell you that I think Jevan Snead from Mississippi is going to be the steal of the draft and the most unnoticed player this year. He is an outside shot to get the Heisman behind Tebow , Bradford and McCoy. But with Kent Austin leading his offense and Austins attention to details, and Sneads talents, I sense a huge season for this qb and possibly the best quarterback in the NFL draft next season.
Also on some Rider news, I heard Andy Fantuz wants a shot at the NFL. If he so chooses to try going down south all the power to him but sign this guy if he returns regardless. He is a keeper and franchise player.
Only one more month until NHL season starts, and a couple more weeks until the WHL season gets under way. The questions now arise, how good will john Tavares be on Long Island. How good will the Red Wings be after this disaster of an off season. How about the off season catastrophe that hit the Chicago Blackhawks. Will Steve Mason be able to carry Columbus again or will he be hit with the sophmore jinx. How will the new faces in Montreal be able to handle the pressure of playing in Canada's hockey capital and under the Montreal media? Finally when will Dany Heatley be wearing the teal and blck of the San Jose Sharks?
After supposedly signing Pacman Jones the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have not brought im on the Mike kelly crash landing he is giving Bomber fans now. Instead they have gone after NFL reject Charles Rogers. I am a Rider fan but I love the CFL. If you want to bring in NFL cuts fine, I am all for it but please quit looking for these guys in prisons, probation offices and at strip clubs. Im sure there are players who love the game, and will play for the love of the game and not just to make enough money to cover debts that came from stupidity. Maybe professional sports needs to give these rookies a money management course, or better yet force them to save money for after their careers, since most of them have little work skills have lived an entire life playing a game.
Tomorrow on the score is boise state and Oregon at Bronco Stadium. If you love new adventures and obscure sporting facilities, Bronco Stadium is one of these in itself. The blue turf and atmosphere is incredible. Its going to be a heck of a game tomorrow, and then starts the labour day classics that will come to us all weekend long on TSN. Now only if we can get Daved Benefield, Scott Schultz, and Mike Abou-Mecherak as guest hosts on the panel for some interesting insights and quotes.
Ryan
The first is the absurd contracts that rookies are receiving in sports these days. These are players who have not proven themselves at the maximum level. These are players who are using their stats achieved at a lower level of competition to negotiate large contracts. He signed a 6 year 72 million dollar contract and hasn't even thrown an NFL pass. He is guaranteed 41.7 million dollars. A person who has done nothing is making 41.7 million dollars, yet there are other players who have proven themselves that are making less money. What is wrong with this picture?? Then a rookie holds out for guaranteed money and a contract similar to those who were drafted around or ahead of him(eg Michael Crabtree.) Why should the team who drafted you have to give you a contract better than the returning players who want to play in that city. Players who show up to training camp and do the 2-a-days. Players who go to weight training on their own, work out with other team member to be better. Why should a rookie who is using stats achieved against a lower competition get more money than a proven veteran player. Where is the logic.
The next thing that irks me is no-trade clauses. What were GMs thinking giving players the right to decide where they can and cannot play. I agree that the players do have a say in this but the job of the GM is to make the team better. The 2 players that come to mind right now are Thomas Kaberle and Dany Heatley. Thomas Kaberle squashed a trade to the Canadiens and a trade to the Bruins both of which would have given the Maple Leafs the top 6 forward that is needed to make their team a bonafide contender. Yes I agree that no player wants to be traded or if they do its for a legitimate reason. But if that player is being traded, why should he get a choice of where he goes. This is absurd. The real reason for this one is the famous Dany Heatley. Mr. Heatley voided 2 trades, one which was to go to Edmonton for 2 top 6 forwards, a top 4 defenseman, and Dany Heatley would have the ice time and responsibilities that he feels he wants. Yes, players should have some say in being traded or not, but if they do want to be traded, the trade should be to a place that benefits both teams, and not a place that accomodates a players wishes and handcuffs his team.
The third one that gets me is Brett Favre. Here is a (with all due respect to Barney Stinson)legend...wait for it.....airy player. Brett holds nearly every substantial quarterbacking record and is a 3 time MVP, and superbowl winner. But here is a player who has single handedly nearly ruined 2 teams and the career development of 3 players. Brett Favre's indecisiveness forced the team in which he wrote the record book, Green Bay Packers, to trade him to the New York Jets. This was to give Aaron Rodgers the chance he deserved after 3 years of stting on a bench and holding a clipboard. A chance which he took by the horns and is looking like a future franchise quarterback. Favre then goes to the Jets, takes over the starting job and sends promising qb Kellen Clemens to the bench and starter Chad Pennington to the Dolphins who roll into the playoffs and Favre back to his ranch in Mississippi to ride around on his lawn mower, promoting Wrangler Jeans. This hindered the development of Clemens and now hes backing up rookie Mark Sanchez and his guaranteed contract yet only having 16 games starting at a NCAA level (see above grumbling). Favre then "retires" and goes back to Mississippi. Then the Minnesota Vikings come calling in May asking Brett to join the team. He declines and does so until 2 weeks are left in training camp. For 2 months Mr. Favre told the Vikings he was retired and didnt want to play. Then with 2 weeks left in camp, Brett decides he wants to play and signs a contract for 2 more years. Meanwhile the Vikings have 2 good young qbs in camp by the names of Sage Rosenfels and Tavaris Jackson. These guys now arent getting the snaps or reps to get any experience, and again Favre has held back the progress and development of 2 more players. Here is a guy who has hindered 2 teams and 4 players for his desire to play. He isnt a team player, nor one who can ever say goodbye. A legacy has been tarnished by a players desire to stay in the spotlight.
Next is the BCS. The NCAA is great for watching. I myself am a fan of college football and love the Big 12 and SEC. These have the best teams, and often the best players. But the problem is how can you determine a national champion with one game between 2 teams. Last year Oklahoma played Florida for the title. Texas was great last year, Texas Tech had a phenomenal year. USC, had a good year and Utah went undefeated. Why dont these guys have a shot at the title. Bring in a tournament and have that determine the champion. Not only does this give us a clear, defined champion but also rids us of any debate of who is the best team. I know its against tradition, but it helps us eliminate the debates that have gone on for years about who is the "true national champion".
With college football coming up this weekend. The excitement starts, and I can tell you that I think Jevan Snead from Mississippi is going to be the steal of the draft and the most unnoticed player this year. He is an outside shot to get the Heisman behind Tebow , Bradford and McCoy. But with Kent Austin leading his offense and Austins attention to details, and Sneads talents, I sense a huge season for this qb and possibly the best quarterback in the NFL draft next season.
Also on some Rider news, I heard Andy Fantuz wants a shot at the NFL. If he so chooses to try going down south all the power to him but sign this guy if he returns regardless. He is a keeper and franchise player.
Only one more month until NHL season starts, and a couple more weeks until the WHL season gets under way. The questions now arise, how good will john Tavares be on Long Island. How good will the Red Wings be after this disaster of an off season. How about the off season catastrophe that hit the Chicago Blackhawks. Will Steve Mason be able to carry Columbus again or will he be hit with the sophmore jinx. How will the new faces in Montreal be able to handle the pressure of playing in Canada's hockey capital and under the Montreal media? Finally when will Dany Heatley be wearing the teal and blck of the San Jose Sharks?
After supposedly signing Pacman Jones the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have not brought im on the Mike kelly crash landing he is giving Bomber fans now. Instead they have gone after NFL reject Charles Rogers. I am a Rider fan but I love the CFL. If you want to bring in NFL cuts fine, I am all for it but please quit looking for these guys in prisons, probation offices and at strip clubs. Im sure there are players who love the game, and will play for the love of the game and not just to make enough money to cover debts that came from stupidity. Maybe professional sports needs to give these rookies a money management course, or better yet force them to save money for after their careers, since most of them have little work skills have lived an entire life playing a game.
Tomorrow on the score is boise state and Oregon at Bronco Stadium. If you love new adventures and obscure sporting facilities, Bronco Stadium is one of these in itself. The blue turf and atmosphere is incredible. Its going to be a heck of a game tomorrow, and then starts the labour day classics that will come to us all weekend long on TSN. Now only if we can get Daved Benefield, Scott Schultz, and Mike Abou-Mecherak as guest hosts on the panel for some interesting insights and quotes.
Ryan
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Labor Day Classics
September 1 has come upon us and here is when football is the dominant sport. This is my first blog and I have alot to say about the CFL games this week. The focus of this week will be the Labour Day "Classics".
Friday starts the CFL labour day classic with the leftover teams starting a new rivalry. Montreal is going into BC to face a beaten down, embarrassed, team. Looks like the frontal moon lit a fire in Fred Reids backside, and he bit the Lions in the derriere. I really see BC taking this one in a huge upset. Montreal has looked mortal the last 2 games, and can be defeated. BC is also reaching that urgent point and is nearing that point of every game matters. Rob Bagg, Dressler, and Gerran Walker showed that you can pass against Montreal, and Buck Pierce is going to come back and show he belongs. Geroy Simon and Paris Jackson should have huge games this week.
Next is the Saskatchewan Labor Day Classic. I am anxious to watch this game. First is Mike Kelly, and how he will react to the rabid east side fans at Taylor(never going to be Mosaic Stadium) Field. Next is Michael Bishop, and how he is going to react to the fans here. Can he handle the pressure as a visitor since he had troubles doing it as a Rider. Three will be Adam "Pacman" Jones. How is he going to help out and what are the Bombers doing to keep him around. They are near the max of the salary cap, and now they signed this player who no doubt requires a large contract and says that he is using the CFL to go back to the NFL. How do other players feel about this and his acceptance to be on the team. I feel this is a marketing ploy done by the Bombers to alleviate the pressure off of Kelly and Bishop for the short term. But I do guarantee that this will be a game that is loud, intense and through the roof if we were domed. The Riders have their own issues as the Dominguez, Reaper possible returns as well as Armstead and Antonio Hall in town. How is the Fantuz contract or trade going to happen, and can they stop Fred Reid? Can the Riders special teams stop the returns of Reid, or Bernard, and is Jason Armstead going to be a difference maker. The Riders havent had that kind of threat since Jacox, with all respect to Prince Wimbley III, Rod Harris, Larry Thompson and James Johnson. This is a game of 2 determined teams.
The Edmonton Calgary series is going to be the best game of the week. The game 3 weeks ago was amazing and I can only think right now that Calgary has a huge chip on their shoulder and wants to come out and prove they deserved to win that game in Edmonton. Edmonton is a great team and Richie Hall is doing great as coach. Ricky Ray is the best pure passer in the league and Calgary's defense is good but not great in my opinion. This will be a shoot out going down to the last possession again. I am wondering about the running of Joffrey Reynolds against a No Mo LLoyd defense. I also have to wonder if this is the game that Nik Lewis breaks out and scores his first TD this year. Am I the only one who finds it funny that Erik Wilson (Alouettes) and Riders Keith Shologan have more TDs that Lewis. I also am excited to see the special team match up between Titus Ryan and Tristan Jackson. These guys are both dynamic and can change a games outcome in the blink of an eye.
Toronto at Hamilton. Both teams are coming off of devastating losses. Toronto had Calgary on the ropes and could have tied if Andrus believed in his kicker. Hamilton had Edmonton by the throat and couldnt pull the trigger. These are 2 teams going in opposite directions. Hamilton is proving they are a legitimate team and Toronto has started to emulate the former Ti-Cat teams from the last few years of finding ways to lose.
The one thing I really dont understand though is that while the Alouettes and Lions get 7 days off to play their next game, Calgary and Edmonton have 3 days until their rematch on Friday. How are players to be rested and ready to play after 3 days of rest. These schedule makers need to have their heads examined. All teams should have 5-6 days off between games minimum. This is a bush league manuever. With 8 teams or 4 games a week, all games could be played on Friday, and Saturdays and Sundays. I also am against a bye week. Again 8 teams, means 4 games a week. NO bye week is needed, or else give all teams a bye week.
Tomorrow if time permits I will talk about the NCAA and NFL preseason and how I see those seasons to come about.
Friday starts the CFL labour day classic with the leftover teams starting a new rivalry. Montreal is going into BC to face a beaten down, embarrassed, team. Looks like the frontal moon lit a fire in Fred Reids backside, and he bit the Lions in the derriere. I really see BC taking this one in a huge upset. Montreal has looked mortal the last 2 games, and can be defeated. BC is also reaching that urgent point and is nearing that point of every game matters. Rob Bagg, Dressler, and Gerran Walker showed that you can pass against Montreal, and Buck Pierce is going to come back and show he belongs. Geroy Simon and Paris Jackson should have huge games this week.
Next is the Saskatchewan Labor Day Classic. I am anxious to watch this game. First is Mike Kelly, and how he will react to the rabid east side fans at Taylor(never going to be Mosaic Stadium) Field. Next is Michael Bishop, and how he is going to react to the fans here. Can he handle the pressure as a visitor since he had troubles doing it as a Rider. Three will be Adam "Pacman" Jones. How is he going to help out and what are the Bombers doing to keep him around. They are near the max of the salary cap, and now they signed this player who no doubt requires a large contract and says that he is using the CFL to go back to the NFL. How do other players feel about this and his acceptance to be on the team. I feel this is a marketing ploy done by the Bombers to alleviate the pressure off of Kelly and Bishop for the short term. But I do guarantee that this will be a game that is loud, intense and through the roof if we were domed. The Riders have their own issues as the Dominguez, Reaper possible returns as well as Armstead and Antonio Hall in town. How is the Fantuz contract or trade going to happen, and can they stop Fred Reid? Can the Riders special teams stop the returns of Reid, or Bernard, and is Jason Armstead going to be a difference maker. The Riders havent had that kind of threat since Jacox, with all respect to Prince Wimbley III, Rod Harris, Larry Thompson and James Johnson. This is a game of 2 determined teams.
The Edmonton Calgary series is going to be the best game of the week. The game 3 weeks ago was amazing and I can only think right now that Calgary has a huge chip on their shoulder and wants to come out and prove they deserved to win that game in Edmonton. Edmonton is a great team and Richie Hall is doing great as coach. Ricky Ray is the best pure passer in the league and Calgary's defense is good but not great in my opinion. This will be a shoot out going down to the last possession again. I am wondering about the running of Joffrey Reynolds against a No Mo LLoyd defense. I also have to wonder if this is the game that Nik Lewis breaks out and scores his first TD this year. Am I the only one who finds it funny that Erik Wilson (Alouettes) and Riders Keith Shologan have more TDs that Lewis. I also am excited to see the special team match up between Titus Ryan and Tristan Jackson. These guys are both dynamic and can change a games outcome in the blink of an eye.
Toronto at Hamilton. Both teams are coming off of devastating losses. Toronto had Calgary on the ropes and could have tied if Andrus believed in his kicker. Hamilton had Edmonton by the throat and couldnt pull the trigger. These are 2 teams going in opposite directions. Hamilton is proving they are a legitimate team and Toronto has started to emulate the former Ti-Cat teams from the last few years of finding ways to lose.
The one thing I really dont understand though is that while the Alouettes and Lions get 7 days off to play their next game, Calgary and Edmonton have 3 days until their rematch on Friday. How are players to be rested and ready to play after 3 days of rest. These schedule makers need to have their heads examined. All teams should have 5-6 days off between games minimum. This is a bush league manuever. With 8 teams or 4 games a week, all games could be played on Friday, and Saturdays and Sundays. I also am against a bye week. Again 8 teams, means 4 games a week. NO bye week is needed, or else give all teams a bye week.
Tomorrow if time permits I will talk about the NCAA and NFL preseason and how I see those seasons to come about.
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