My preview for tonight's Yankees' win err Game 6 of the American League Championship Series:
As I watched game 5 Wednesday night I was taking mental notes from the first few pitches to the end of the game. I noticed Texas looked tight from the get go. They made uncharacteristic mistakes and looked unready for the next step. They looked nervous. Why wouldn’t they be? They are in uncharted territory. The franchise is in the American League Championship series for the FIRST time in their near 40 year history. That’s right! Not only have they never been to the World Series, they’ve also never made it to the league championship. They’ve never even won a playoff series until a week ago when they beat Tampa Bay in the first round. This is bonus time for them so you’d think they’d be loose, carefree and playing with house money. It seemed like they were carefree in the first 4 games as they won 3 of them convincingly and pushed the defending champion New York Yankees to the brink of elimination in their best of 7 series. It wasn’t supposed to be this easy!
What changed in Game 5? Perhaps they got caught up in the moment. I mean here they were in Yankee Stadium, one of the great baseball parks in one of the greatest baseball towns ready to finish off the biggest team in the world and the defending World Series champion despite few thinking they could do it and despite having never won anything in their entire team history.
It started in the 2nd inning of the game when Texas pitcher C.J. Wilson started to crumble. Then there were a few fielding gaffes and then the Yankees had them where they wanted them. Sure Texas threatened to close the gap throughout the game but they could not. The Yankees had turned the tide.
In sports, you often hear clichés about champions. They’ll say things like you can never count out a champion or never underestimate the heart of a champion. These things are usually said when referring to an aging or declining champion who is about to lose, or has the odds stacked against them like the Yankees do now, who despite winning Wednesday night still have to win the next two games in Texas to advance to the World Series. It’s an uphill climb and the odds heavily favor Texas but there’s a reason why those clichés are brought up in times like these… they are true.
The Yankees have seen it all and they know to win. They know how to pounce on another team’s mistakes and make them pay. They are not afraid to lose nor will they be nervous during the game. These guys are cool, confident champions who want it as bad as anyone else does. They know how to win. Whether they have the skill or the luck to prevail is another story but when discussing intangibles, these guys have it all. The Rangers lack many of these traits mostly due to inexperience and as a consequence they may feel more pressure tonight to win. If the Yankees beat them again and force a deciding game 7 tomorrow night for all the marbles I would have to give the Yanks a distinct advantage in that game regardless of who is pitching for who in it.
Speaking of pitching and pressure I wouldn’t want to be either starting pitcher tonight. In a rematch from Game 2 the Yankees’ Phil Hughes will go up against the Rangers’ Colby Lewis and to say there’s pressure on both is an understatement. Lewis bested Hughes in that one but I do not expect a similar result tonight. Regardless of what happened in Game 2, if we just look at the two pitchers I have to think Hughes will pitch closer to the form that made him a first time all star this season. Besides that, Hughes is used to pressure as a 1st round draft pick of the New York Yankees. His 6 year career has been wrought with expectations and demand.
On the other side, Colby Lewis is an afterthought. Sure, Lewis is coming off of his best season in his Major League career where he won 12 games and lost 13. Now, don’t get me wrong, he’s not a terrible pitcher. He did rank among American League leaders in strikeouts and WHIP and but rarely do pitchers have their breakout season at age 31. Before this year he hadn’t even pitched in the Major Leagues since 2007 as he spent the last 2 seasons pitching in Japan trying to find and refine his game. The fact of the matter is Lewis is a solid albeit journeyman pitcher with a career record of 24-28 and while he did outpitch Hughes in Game 2, the law of averages should play out here and that means a beating is in store for Lewis tonight.
Conversely Phil Hughes had his breakout season this year at 24. His 18 wins ranked him 4th in the American League and as previously mentioned he did make his first trip to the All Star game this summer. A lot has been expected of the talented young pitcher and this year he has really delivered. He’s a much better pitcher than he showed in Game 2 and based on the things he’s said the last few days, the skill of the two pitchers and the aforementioned law of averages I strongly feel he will be stellar and also the victor tonight.
The bottom line is that Phil Hughes is a better pitcher than Colby Lewis and the Yankees’ intangibles negate the home field advantage of the Rangers. Expect a big hitting night from the Bronx Bombers and the Yankees will win Game 6.
But game 7 against Texas ace Cliff Lee… well we’ll get to that one later.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
More of the Same 9-12-10
The Buffalo Bills… where do I begin? Well it looks like they kicked off the 2010 season with a fiesta. The problem is they were partying like it was 2009. I had such high hopes because it was opening day, because they were at home and because there hasn’t been any Bills football since about 9 months ago. It’s hard not to be excited. The problem is that I know that this year’s team is among the worst in the league.
The Bills changed coaches, general manager and some players as well but when you need about 20 good players to walk through that door, it’s not going to happen overnight. They signed a few low cost free agents, drafted a handful of promising young guys but if you weren’t sure a lot more work was needed to resuscitate this franchise, today’s home opener against a mediocre Miami Dolphins team was all the proof we needed.
The Bills had countless chances to win this game. Their defense showed up and along with the loud, raucous crowd made things tough on Miami’s offense holding them time and time again, especially in the 2nd half when the sellout crowd was begging for some offense from the Bills. If I’m not mistaken the Bills went 3 and out at least 4 times in that pivotal 2nd half.
It really looked like a Bills home game from last year, 2008, 2007 and so on. The defense plays well and keeps us in it and if the offense can do ANYTHING, the win is there for the taking. In this case the offense did absolutely nothing and we lost a close one that didn’t feel as close as it ended up. I for one felt incredibly lucky all game, thinking I can’t believe we are this close to tying the game despite playing as badly as we did.
The worst part of all was that this team reverted back to its’ same boring, tired ways. It was the kind of game where, if it weren’t for the opening day juices and natural curiosity for what the team would look like this season, many fans could have fallen asleep. When C.J. Spiller was drafted and some people questioned the move because of the Bills other more pressing needs, owner Ralph Wilson said they drafted Spiller because he’s an explosive, exciting player and that’s what the team and the fans needed; some excitement. Well guess what? It’s going to take more than Spiller. He is undoubtedly a very fun player to watch but when your offensive line is suspect, your quarterback is completely afraid to throw downfield and the only thing the defense is worried about is the running game, it’s going to be very difficult to run the ball. They tried to get it to Spiller, especially early on but the whole gameplan was flawed.
It all comes down to one player; Bills quarterback Trent Edwards. Yes, he looked great during the preseason against the vanilla defenses and other team’s backups but in the regular season he regresses. He goes back to being Trentative. He’s petrified of throwing the ball down field and sometimes he’s scared to throw the ball altogether. You CANNOT win consistently in the NFL with a scared quarterback. This is a game of chances and risks and he won’t take any. It doesn’t matter if he has the smarts and the physical tools, if he doesn’t have the guts to be a winner, none of that other stuff matters.
It’s really unfortunate because the fans in attendance were amped up. I was amped up! The defense and many of the players gave a tremendous effort and to see him back there not willing to try to win this game for them, for us, is a damn shame. As you can tell I’m sick of Trent the quarterback. I’m done with him and I was really hoping that after last season we’d never have to watch him again. Unfortunately it looks like we’ll be stuck with him for one more year, but on the bright side this team isn’t ready to contend for the playoffs yet. He’s basically keeping us from being a middle of the pack team. Truth is there are still many holes on both lines, linebacker, tight end, receiver and of course quarterback. If you really want to get optimistic about losing, just think if we finish among the worst 2 or 3 teams in the league this year we’ll have an excellent chance at college quarterback Jake Locker in the 2011 draft. They say he’s better than any of the quarterback prospects who came out of college the past few years. He will certainly go first or second in the draft and if we finish with the worst record in the league, we’ll get the first pick.
In conclusion I say if you are going to lose, lose well. Go down with a fight. I can take the losing that’s going to be coming most of the time this season if the team is exciting and I feel like we are leaving it all on the field. What I can’t take is when most of the guys are giving it all they can and their supposed leader on the field is being a coward. I don’t think it’s fair. Next week is a trip to a very good Green Bay team and a big time ass whooping if they play the same game. I’m hoping this week’s game will serve as a wake up despite not having any reason based on the past to expect it to be. I’m hoping for an exciting game next week and not just from the Packers. That’s all us Bills fans have these days; hope.
The Bills changed coaches, general manager and some players as well but when you need about 20 good players to walk through that door, it’s not going to happen overnight. They signed a few low cost free agents, drafted a handful of promising young guys but if you weren’t sure a lot more work was needed to resuscitate this franchise, today’s home opener against a mediocre Miami Dolphins team was all the proof we needed.
The Bills had countless chances to win this game. Their defense showed up and along with the loud, raucous crowd made things tough on Miami’s offense holding them time and time again, especially in the 2nd half when the sellout crowd was begging for some offense from the Bills. If I’m not mistaken the Bills went 3 and out at least 4 times in that pivotal 2nd half.
It really looked like a Bills home game from last year, 2008, 2007 and so on. The defense plays well and keeps us in it and if the offense can do ANYTHING, the win is there for the taking. In this case the offense did absolutely nothing and we lost a close one that didn’t feel as close as it ended up. I for one felt incredibly lucky all game, thinking I can’t believe we are this close to tying the game despite playing as badly as we did.
The worst part of all was that this team reverted back to its’ same boring, tired ways. It was the kind of game where, if it weren’t for the opening day juices and natural curiosity for what the team would look like this season, many fans could have fallen asleep. When C.J. Spiller was drafted and some people questioned the move because of the Bills other more pressing needs, owner Ralph Wilson said they drafted Spiller because he’s an explosive, exciting player and that’s what the team and the fans needed; some excitement. Well guess what? It’s going to take more than Spiller. He is undoubtedly a very fun player to watch but when your offensive line is suspect, your quarterback is completely afraid to throw downfield and the only thing the defense is worried about is the running game, it’s going to be very difficult to run the ball. They tried to get it to Spiller, especially early on but the whole gameplan was flawed.
It all comes down to one player; Bills quarterback Trent Edwards. Yes, he looked great during the preseason against the vanilla defenses and other team’s backups but in the regular season he regresses. He goes back to being Trentative. He’s petrified of throwing the ball down field and sometimes he’s scared to throw the ball altogether. You CANNOT win consistently in the NFL with a scared quarterback. This is a game of chances and risks and he won’t take any. It doesn’t matter if he has the smarts and the physical tools, if he doesn’t have the guts to be a winner, none of that other stuff matters.
It’s really unfortunate because the fans in attendance were amped up. I was amped up! The defense and many of the players gave a tremendous effort and to see him back there not willing to try to win this game for them, for us, is a damn shame. As you can tell I’m sick of Trent the quarterback. I’m done with him and I was really hoping that after last season we’d never have to watch him again. Unfortunately it looks like we’ll be stuck with him for one more year, but on the bright side this team isn’t ready to contend for the playoffs yet. He’s basically keeping us from being a middle of the pack team. Truth is there are still many holes on both lines, linebacker, tight end, receiver and of course quarterback. If you really want to get optimistic about losing, just think if we finish among the worst 2 or 3 teams in the league this year we’ll have an excellent chance at college quarterback Jake Locker in the 2011 draft. They say he’s better than any of the quarterback prospects who came out of college the past few years. He will certainly go first or second in the draft and if we finish with the worst record in the league, we’ll get the first pick.
In conclusion I say if you are going to lose, lose well. Go down with a fight. I can take the losing that’s going to be coming most of the time this season if the team is exciting and I feel like we are leaving it all on the field. What I can’t take is when most of the guys are giving it all they can and their supposed leader on the field is being a coward. I don’t think it’s fair. Next week is a trip to a very good Green Bay team and a big time ass whooping if they play the same game. I’m hoping this week’s game will serve as a wake up despite not having any reason based on the past to expect it to be. I’m hoping for an exciting game next week and not just from the Packers. That’s all us Bills fans have these days; hope.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
"Won’t Get Fooled Again"
Now that the Buffalo Bills made their final cuts down to 53 players I feel like the football season is ready to go. We are just one week away but I wonder one week away from what? Two months ago I predicted we’d win only 3 games. Every major publication, blogger, website and newspaper is picking us to finish dead last in our division. In fact, many are picking us to be one of the worst teams in the entire league!
In reality I can’t disagree. We aren’t a playoff team. There are just too many holes and a lack of quality at many positions. If you forget about the last 10 years of futility and look at this team right now with a brand new coach and a new General Manager, we shouldn’t expect much. It’s year one of this rebuilding project and I’d say they are on the right track with C.J. Spiller, Terrell Troup and some of the other young guys. It’s hard to take because we’ve stunk for so long and rebuilt so many times in the last decade while other teams haven’t had to go through the same process, let alone numerous times.
Watching the team in preseason I was actually quite impressed with many things. Trent Edwards looked like an NFL starting quarterback. Roscoe Parrish looked like a dangerous weapon again. Aaron Maybin looked like he might get on the field this year and there was cohesion on offense I haven’t seen in some time. I credit the new coach, Chan Gailey, who despite not being what most of us fans wanted, has a great offensive pedigree and is probably the first offensive based head coach we’ve had in a very long time (I won’t count that stiff Mike Mularkey).
Unlike the recent batch of seasons where the team went out and signed some big name to get the fans excited even though it was smoke and mirrors, this year the team brought in a ton of young guys and gave the boot to many veterans who had been helping to lead the Bills nowhere better than mediocrity city. So when the summer hit I could sense the ambivalence about the team this year. No big names, no high hopes and no anticipation. Everyone knew they’d be terrible and like I mentioned I was no exception. I wrote a blog a few weeks back about how I don’t care about the team as much this year. I wouldn’t say I’ve changed my mind but I am a little more optimistic about the team now that we are a week away and I’ve seen some good things during the preseason games. Maybe it’s my nature to find the bright side, or perhaps it’s that I think we will at least be more exciting to watch this year in spite of probably losing most of our games.
If I didn’t know any better, watching the team the past 3 weeks makes me want to think they’ll be a lot better than a 3-win team, but if the 10 year drought of doom has taught me anything it’s to remain skeptical. I’m pulling for them, I’m hoping we do well but my expectations are very low. I won’t get fooled again.
In reality I can’t disagree. We aren’t a playoff team. There are just too many holes and a lack of quality at many positions. If you forget about the last 10 years of futility and look at this team right now with a brand new coach and a new General Manager, we shouldn’t expect much. It’s year one of this rebuilding project and I’d say they are on the right track with C.J. Spiller, Terrell Troup and some of the other young guys. It’s hard to take because we’ve stunk for so long and rebuilt so many times in the last decade while other teams haven’t had to go through the same process, let alone numerous times.
Watching the team in preseason I was actually quite impressed with many things. Trent Edwards looked like an NFL starting quarterback. Roscoe Parrish looked like a dangerous weapon again. Aaron Maybin looked like he might get on the field this year and there was cohesion on offense I haven’t seen in some time. I credit the new coach, Chan Gailey, who despite not being what most of us fans wanted, has a great offensive pedigree and is probably the first offensive based head coach we’ve had in a very long time (I won’t count that stiff Mike Mularkey).
Unlike the recent batch of seasons where the team went out and signed some big name to get the fans excited even though it was smoke and mirrors, this year the team brought in a ton of young guys and gave the boot to many veterans who had been helping to lead the Bills nowhere better than mediocrity city. So when the summer hit I could sense the ambivalence about the team this year. No big names, no high hopes and no anticipation. Everyone knew they’d be terrible and like I mentioned I was no exception. I wrote a blog a few weeks back about how I don’t care about the team as much this year. I wouldn’t say I’ve changed my mind but I am a little more optimistic about the team now that we are a week away and I’ve seen some good things during the preseason games. Maybe it’s my nature to find the bright side, or perhaps it’s that I think we will at least be more exciting to watch this year in spite of probably losing most of our games.
If I didn’t know any better, watching the team the past 3 weeks makes me want to think they’ll be a lot better than a 3-win team, but if the 10 year drought of doom has taught me anything it’s to remain skeptical. I’m pulling for them, I’m hoping we do well but my expectations are very low. I won’t get fooled again.
Friday, June 25, 2010
World Cup Primer: USA vs Ghana 6-26-10
USA vs. Ghana (6-26-10)
Here are some things to keep an eye on during the big game:
1:The US Defense- They’ve started every game of the World Cup on the shaky side and ended each one as firm as a wall. The U.S. needs a more consistent effort against the creative and aggressive Ghana attackers. After a shaky beginning to the Algeria game, Jay Demerit had his best game of the tournament turning away threat after threat and becoming the boss of the air. Carlos Bocanegra and Steve Cherundolo are very good but the final spot whether it’s Onyewu or Bornstein has been a weakness and you can be sure Ghana will attack that 4th defender. He will have to be up to the challenge for the U.S. to advance.
2: The Big Guns: Landon Donovan is a very good player who can be a bit streaky sometimes. After scoring what probably can be considered the biggest goal of his career he should be feeling hot and that spells bad news for Ghana. When Donovan is feeling good about himself he becomes more aggressive and anticipates the play better. It seemed like he was cruise control against Algeria for most of that game, giving up opportunities to attack the Algerian defense to make passes to his teammates. He’s certainly a quality player on cruise control but when his foot in on the gas he can be special. With his confidence soaring I would not be surprised to see him get a little more hungry on the ball and if Jozy Altidore plays the same aggressive and physical game he played against Algeria, that would make the U.S. attack very formidable and most likely too strong for Ghana’s defense to stop.
3.Clint Dempsey- Dempsey, bloody lip and all was in the middle of the action for nearly the entire game against Algeria. He’s rugged and often plays with attitude and a chip on his shoulder. He’ll need that toughness against Ghana’s best player, Kevin-Prince Boateng. The Prince is very strong, physical and chippy himself at times and he’s sure to test the meddle of the fiery and undersized Dempsey. If Dempsey can keep his cool he may goad Princey into a cheap foul or foolhardy mistake of his own. Boateng will attempt to use his strength to control the middle and if he is successful, he will be Ghana’s most dangerous player. This is a key matchup in the center of the pitch. Some of the hardest fouls and toughest play could come from these two.
4.Revenge- The U.S. capped off a disappointing 2006 World Cup run by losing their last game to Ghana and were booted from the tournament. The U.S. had high hopes coming off of a final 8 appearance in 2002 and despite earning only 1 point in their first 2 contests of 2006 were in position to advance to the knockout stage by beating Ghana. Unfortunately they came in on the losing end of a 2-1 result and Americans forgot about soccer all over again. The American players on the field that day in Nuremberg certainly remember and we’ll see if those memories can be exorcised today in Rustenburg.
5. Environmental factors- Can the U.S. team which has looked nervous at times handle the overwhelming support the crowd will throw behind Africa’s last hope in the tournament? The vuvuzelas will be in full force and the U.S. will find themselves in the role of party poopers. If the Americans can keep their focus on the field and not on the stands, they’ll have a great chance of advancing to a winnable matchup against Uruguay.
Here are some things to keep an eye on during the big game:
1:The US Defense- They’ve started every game of the World Cup on the shaky side and ended each one as firm as a wall. The U.S. needs a more consistent effort against the creative and aggressive Ghana attackers. After a shaky beginning to the Algeria game, Jay Demerit had his best game of the tournament turning away threat after threat and becoming the boss of the air. Carlos Bocanegra and Steve Cherundolo are very good but the final spot whether it’s Onyewu or Bornstein has been a weakness and you can be sure Ghana will attack that 4th defender. He will have to be up to the challenge for the U.S. to advance.
2: The Big Guns: Landon Donovan is a very good player who can be a bit streaky sometimes. After scoring what probably can be considered the biggest goal of his career he should be feeling hot and that spells bad news for Ghana. When Donovan is feeling good about himself he becomes more aggressive and anticipates the play better. It seemed like he was cruise control against Algeria for most of that game, giving up opportunities to attack the Algerian defense to make passes to his teammates. He’s certainly a quality player on cruise control but when his foot in on the gas he can be special. With his confidence soaring I would not be surprised to see him get a little more hungry on the ball and if Jozy Altidore plays the same aggressive and physical game he played against Algeria, that would make the U.S. attack very formidable and most likely too strong for Ghana’s defense to stop.
3.Clint Dempsey- Dempsey, bloody lip and all was in the middle of the action for nearly the entire game against Algeria. He’s rugged and often plays with attitude and a chip on his shoulder. He’ll need that toughness against Ghana’s best player, Kevin-Prince Boateng. The Prince is very strong, physical and chippy himself at times and he’s sure to test the meddle of the fiery and undersized Dempsey. If Dempsey can keep his cool he may goad Princey into a cheap foul or foolhardy mistake of his own. Boateng will attempt to use his strength to control the middle and if he is successful, he will be Ghana’s most dangerous player. This is a key matchup in the center of the pitch. Some of the hardest fouls and toughest play could come from these two.
4.Revenge- The U.S. capped off a disappointing 2006 World Cup run by losing their last game to Ghana and were booted from the tournament. The U.S. had high hopes coming off of a final 8 appearance in 2002 and despite earning only 1 point in their first 2 contests of 2006 were in position to advance to the knockout stage by beating Ghana. Unfortunately they came in on the losing end of a 2-1 result and Americans forgot about soccer all over again. The American players on the field that day in Nuremberg certainly remember and we’ll see if those memories can be exorcised today in Rustenburg.
5. Environmental factors- Can the U.S. team which has looked nervous at times handle the overwhelming support the crowd will throw behind Africa’s last hope in the tournament? The vuvuzelas will be in full force and the U.S. will find themselves in the role of party poopers. If the Americans can keep their focus on the field and not on the stands, they’ll have a great chance of advancing to a winnable matchup against Uruguay.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Running Super Bowl Blog (2-7-10)
Running Super Bowl Blog (2-7-10)
If you are sick and unable to attend any cool Super Bowl parties and get togethers why not make the most of the time and blog about the Super Bowl as it happens? Well, it sounds like a good idea to me. It is currently 5:30 and at least 50 minutes before kickoff so before we get to the games here are the things I want to see and don’t want to see:
Want to see:
-A shoot out and a close game that keeps my attention to the end.
-A realistic number of good commercials- by realistic I’ll take 1 in 4. If 25% of the commercials are good I’ll be happy
-Pete Townsend destroys his guitar after a killer set by the Who at halftime. That’s realistic right?
-A smidge of weather – Wouldn’t it be cool for once if the wind, temperature or rain was a small factor?
-a New Orleans victory. If I were to make a list of NFL cities that deserve a Super Bowl, the Big Easy would be right near the top with Buffalo, Detroit and Cleveland. New Orleans is an underdog team (in this game) from an underdog city who has never won it, let alone played in the Super Bowl before and winning it all would mean a lot to a city that greatly deserves some good news. How can you argue with that?
DON’T want to see:
-Political commercials during the Super Bowl. It’s football, stick to the dancing squirrels, dumb guys drinking beer, special effects, clever concepts and easy going junk. Leave the political, ethical, righteous crap for more serious programs. I love Jesus, like his style but leave him out of my sports. I love Barack Obama, like his style as well but unless he’s making a prediction or something game related I don’t want to see or hear from him nor his contemporaries in politics.
-I don’t want to see Kim Kardashian all night every time her boyfriend Reggie Bush does something. I’m sure CBS will show her a few times but this might be a blessing that the game is not on FOX which would show her 86 times by halftime regardless of Reggie’s exploits. For that matter I could do with minimal Archie and Eli Manning shots too.
-a nervous, low scoring, turnover filled game
Okay with all that in mind it is nearly gametime so here we go! (Times listed are EST) Special note: All the opinions expressed don’t necessary reflect the views of anyone you should take seriously. I’m just babbling and will repeatedly show that I don’t know what I am talking about. Enjoy!
6:01pm-So we start off with Jay Z. Didn’t he start off the World Series too? Jay Z is one of those rare hip hop stars who have crossed over and still has the street cred. The 90’s were littered with crossover rappers who went pop and then went bust. Perhaps it’s easier for Jay Z than it was for MC Hammer, Tone Loc, Young MC and those guys because back then hip hop wasn’t as mainstream and you really had to meet the pop sound halfway. You had to tweak your sound enough to get on the charts which generated resentment with the hardcore fanbase. Nowadays nothing is bigger than hip hop. It IS the mainstream so guys like Kanye and Jay Z can pretty much do what they want without sacrificing too much and it will go over.
6:07pm- My first winning combination and commercial of the night: Ritz crackers and Earth Wind and Fire. Ritz crackers aren’t too complicated… they are crackers. So why make a complicated commercial? Ritz didn’t and I applaud them for it. They mix in a marching band, Tiki Barber for the football tie-in and Earth Wind and Fire’s Let’s Groove tonight which is scientifically proven to make you groove.
6:10pm- Player introductions… Guys are pretty pumped up. I wonder if we’ll hear any cursing on the field. Speaking of which, with this being the Super Bowl and all I want to see that New Orleans team “300” pre-game ritual up close.
6:16pm- I noticed this is the Hyundai pregame show and that made me wonder if we’ll hear from Toyota tonight. They have as much damage control and trust issues as Tiger Woods right now so I’m thinking this might be a golden, albeit expensive opportunity to start turning it around. Now that I think about it, Tiger should have bought some ad time and tried to start the long road to repairing his image.
6:18pm- Queen Latifah? I thought she was more of a rapper than a singer, Chicago notwithstanding. Needless to say I’ll be a little skeptical.
6:21pm- Okay I liked the presentation and the way the song was done but the Queen may be more of a peasant when it comes to belting out a tune. I’ll give her a B- for a good try though.
6:23pm- I liked Carrie Underwood’s rendition of the national anthem a little better but I don’t know how much she truly loves America, after all she is marrying a Canadian hockey player from Ottawa. She gets a B.
6:28pm- Emmitt Smith’s coin toss almost went right into the Saints. I’m glad it didn’t hit anything or anyone because with as charged up and competitive these guys are right now it might have resulted in a 5 minute argument: “you didn’t call no interference” “no interference doesn’t have to be called, it’s a given”
6:30pm- Phil Simms just said “bad weather brings teams closer together” meaning that it offsets the difference in talent a little bit. It’s a valid point but makes me feel depressed because if you think about it the Bills haven’t made the playoffs in 10 years despite having bad weather some of the time.
6:33pm- Wow aggressive throw by Drew Brees on 3rd down. The man wasn’t open by much and the throw was not that great but at least he missed him long so it wasn’t costly. Between that throw and the play before where it looked like he had happy feet in the pocket I wonder if Drew is a bit nervous. You couldn’t blame him if he is. Although if he is, I hope he snaps out of it soon because that cool customer on the other sideline might put up a few quick scores before the nervous people settle in. In fact his first 3 throws have been perfect!
6:42pm- Although the Saints held the Colts to only a field goal on that opening drive, it didn’t really feel like they stopped the Colts as much as Peyton missed a throw. Still though, 3 is better than 7 against. Now I hope Drew Brees can get it going.
6:43pm- The first funny Super Bowl commercial followed by the pro-life one we’ve heard about all week. The “you’re playing like Betty White” bit was good and then to add Abe Vigoda at the end was frosting on the cake. As far as the Tim Tebow pro-life spot, it wasn’t as offensive as I thought it would be but I still do not think a football game is the time and place for such topics.
6:51pm- Colston taking one off the face, boy that’s embarrassing. Good thing there weren’t 50 million people watching or anything. That basically killed the drive. At least they pinned the Colts down deep in their territory but I don’t like the way this is going so far.
6:53pm- Bud Light commercial, it’s the end of the world what do we do? Bud Light? Really? If the world was going to end I’d sho’nuff be drinking top shelf hooch not bargain basement beer water.
6:55pm- The Colts just ran for 16 on that last play and then 10 more a few plays later. I know the Saints are petrified about Manning and they should be but they cannot give up huge runs. It might be curtains for them if the Colts can run the ball effectively throughout the game because the Colts are actually one of the league’s worst running teams.
7:02pm- The Simpsons Coca Cola commercial was cute but why do you need the Simpsons for that? You could have made the same commercial with no name actors and the same premise. Although right afterwards I give 2 thumbs up to Go Daddy for Danica Patrick getting a massage. Yeah it wasn’t too revealing but at this point in the Super Bowl I’ll take what I can get.
7:06pm- If you thought the voice box song effect hadn’t jumped the shark a year or two ago when every song on the radio was using it, I think it leaped over the shark right now with this Bud Light commercial. I have a theory that the worse a beer is the more you have to advertise for it. Think about your favorite beer and how often you see a commercial for it. Now compare that to how many Bud Light, Coors Light, Budweiser, and Miller Lite commercials you see. I think the only exception to this rule would be the introduction of a new beer but I think you get the point. Also no one give Cher the love she deserves. About 10 years ago she used the voice box effect to a huge top 10 smash song about believing about love after love. No one gives her the credit she deserves… at least as far as that goes.
7:08pm- By the way that Colts touchdown has put my mind on the verge of panic mode. The Saints MUST score on this drive. As I mentioned early on, the Saints had to get past the nerves fast because Peyton isn’t nervous and he is that damn good.
7:12pm- I was just about to ask where Pierre Thomas was but it appears he has been found. The Saints and Drew Brees especially could use the balance of a strong running threat. The Colts defense is fast but not big and strong. If you can run it right at them you can wear them down.
7:16pm- The Saints have to settle for a field goal after a nasty Freeney one armed sack. For the rest of the game the Saints will need touchdowns and not field goals but one this occasion they needed to get on the board so it was nice to get something.
7:20pm- Leno and Letterman in the same commercial… only at the Super Bowl.
7:22pm- I bet that was the first time there were ever two pantsless commercials in a row. Not that I’m counting and not that I am a fan.
7:23pm- Whether you like Brett Favre or you don’t you have to respect that he’ll make fun of himself.
7:25pm- Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good and Pierre Garcon dropping that 3rd down throw may have kept this game, a game. If he caught that at full speed like he was going he might have had a chance to score. Now if the Saints can score a TD here and tie the game I’ll be thrilled. Oh and quick shout out to the NFL network for using Arcade Fire in their commercial for the draft.
7:37pm- It’s the two minute warning and 3rd and goal at the 1. If I’m the Saints I’m going into 4-down territory here. To have pretty much dominated this quarter of play and come out of it with 2 field goals and to go down at least 4 points at the half is unacceptable. They are bigger on the line of scrimmage than the Colts and it needs to come out here.
7:39pm-I thought Mike Bell was the power back for goalline situations. He looked like Reggie Bush running east and west there. If it’s not there put your head down and get back to the line of scrimmage or at least a half yard to make 4th down more doable. Do not run it wide and lose yardage. Now with a yard and a half to 2 yards to go this becomes a real gamble whether they kick it or not.
7:50pm- I must admit I thought this was going to be a blowout after that first quarter was dominated by the Colts but then the Saints turned it around and owned the 2nd quarter. Unfortunately their huge advantages in time of possession and yards (143 yards to 15 yards) translated only into 2 field goals and left them still facing a 4 point deficit when the 2nd half begins. It was not the exciting offensive shootout I was both expecting and hoping for but it wasn’t a snoosefest either. Now it’s time to recharge the batteries and take in the Who.
8:13pm- Did everyone play along with the Who? It was like they were on the Guitar Hero stage and since it would light up on the beat I assumed if I had a controller and the game I could have played along. It was perfectly fine entertainment but it does seem a bit formulaic since Janet Jackson’s nipple. Ever since then it has been book all time great band/artist, do medley of hits, shoot fireworks, have crazy light show and visuals. It’s a good time albeit safe. I guess like I mentioned about not having political or religious commercials on the Super Bowl, perhaps this is how it should be, established and legendary performers instead of the flavor of the month. It makes me appreciate Prince’s appearance a few years ago a bit more. He played a few hits but also sprinkled in some covers too. How cool was that? You won’t see the Who doing any Bob Dylan tunes up there.
8:22pm- Onside kick to start the 2nd half. Wake up everybody! You have to love the cojones to attempt such a play. If the Colts recovered with a very short field it could very well be 17-6. But with the Saints recovering the kick even a field goal would be good as it would put them within a point but if the Saints were to go up 13-10 with the Colts on their heels, this would be very interesting. Plus it would be the first time tonight that pressure would be on Peyton Manning, who I might add hasn’t really thrown a pass in nearly an hour.
8:27pm- Touchdown Saints! The Saints look unafraid and more importantly have finally found the endzone. They are really starting to click. Drew looks locked in. It’s on now.
8:30pm- What the freak? First Arcade Fire in a commercial and now Grizzly Bear? Maybe I’m not as cool as I thought I was.
8:37pm- As I watch the Colts march right back down the field I’m starting to wonder if the shootout I was expecting in the 1st half may finally be here. Your serve New Orleans.
8:40pm- The KGB woman is fine.
8:44pm- Another commercial concept that has jumped the shark: the e-trade baby. It’s not even the same voice from last year’s commercials. If you are going to beat a concept to death at least maintain continuity so you can really wring out every drop of use from it.
8:59pm- Reggie Wayne has been REALLY quiet thus far.
9:07pm- Watching Drew Brees carve up the Colts secondary with passes all over the field, to all different receivers is like watching football art. It also makes me pine for a real quarterback for Buffalo. It’s been too long. Meanwhile I think it’s a matter of time before the Saints score.
9:15pm- I hope the Saints challenge that 2-point conversion. I’d give it to him.
9:19pm- Wow a 7 point game with 5 minutes and change and the best of the best taking the ball in an attempt to tie it. This is football!
9:21pm- Darn it, I was hoping to go through the whole game without hearing a chicken scream. Oh well.
9:26pm- The Green Police inside of my head! This Audi spot has been my favorite commercial of the night thus far. Yes even better than Danica’s rubdown and the KGB woman. “You picked the wrong day to mess with the ecosystem” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq58zS4_jvM
9:29pm- The GAMEBREAKER! Pick 6 by the Saints and finally a team makes a mistake. In a game where no one had turned the ball over and the score was so close it makes sense that the one mistake made by someone could cost their team the game. I have too much respect for Peyton Manning to say this is over but I think I hear the fat lady tuning up.
9:37pm- The best Colts defender Dwight Freeney has either not played in the 2nd half or has been invisible because of his injury. It’s probably no coincidence that Drew Brees hasn’t had much pressure in the 2nd half and has looked amazing. He’s my MVP tonight.
9:43pm- There she goes! It’s over and let the party begin on Bourbon Street. Just a few years back before Drew Brees’ arrival in New Orleans no one would have guessed that a traditionally non successful franchise like the Saints would be winning the Super Bowl. It gives me hope that the little guys can win it every once in a while. I’m sure it also gives hope to the Cleveland’s, Seattle’s, Cincinnati’s, etc.
Who dat? Super Bowl Champs!
If you are sick and unable to attend any cool Super Bowl parties and get togethers why not make the most of the time and blog about the Super Bowl as it happens? Well, it sounds like a good idea to me. It is currently 5:30 and at least 50 minutes before kickoff so before we get to the games here are the things I want to see and don’t want to see:
Want to see:
-A shoot out and a close game that keeps my attention to the end.
-A realistic number of good commercials- by realistic I’ll take 1 in 4. If 25% of the commercials are good I’ll be happy
-Pete Townsend destroys his guitar after a killer set by the Who at halftime. That’s realistic right?
-A smidge of weather – Wouldn’t it be cool for once if the wind, temperature or rain was a small factor?
-a New Orleans victory. If I were to make a list of NFL cities that deserve a Super Bowl, the Big Easy would be right near the top with Buffalo, Detroit and Cleveland. New Orleans is an underdog team (in this game) from an underdog city who has never won it, let alone played in the Super Bowl before and winning it all would mean a lot to a city that greatly deserves some good news. How can you argue with that?
DON’T want to see:
-Political commercials during the Super Bowl. It’s football, stick to the dancing squirrels, dumb guys drinking beer, special effects, clever concepts and easy going junk. Leave the political, ethical, righteous crap for more serious programs. I love Jesus, like his style but leave him out of my sports. I love Barack Obama, like his style as well but unless he’s making a prediction or something game related I don’t want to see or hear from him nor his contemporaries in politics.
-I don’t want to see Kim Kardashian all night every time her boyfriend Reggie Bush does something. I’m sure CBS will show her a few times but this might be a blessing that the game is not on FOX which would show her 86 times by halftime regardless of Reggie’s exploits. For that matter I could do with minimal Archie and Eli Manning shots too.
-a nervous, low scoring, turnover filled game
Okay with all that in mind it is nearly gametime so here we go! (Times listed are EST) Special note: All the opinions expressed don’t necessary reflect the views of anyone you should take seriously. I’m just babbling and will repeatedly show that I don’t know what I am talking about. Enjoy!
6:01pm-So we start off with Jay Z. Didn’t he start off the World Series too? Jay Z is one of those rare hip hop stars who have crossed over and still has the street cred. The 90’s were littered with crossover rappers who went pop and then went bust. Perhaps it’s easier for Jay Z than it was for MC Hammer, Tone Loc, Young MC and those guys because back then hip hop wasn’t as mainstream and you really had to meet the pop sound halfway. You had to tweak your sound enough to get on the charts which generated resentment with the hardcore fanbase. Nowadays nothing is bigger than hip hop. It IS the mainstream so guys like Kanye and Jay Z can pretty much do what they want without sacrificing too much and it will go over.
6:07pm- My first winning combination and commercial of the night: Ritz crackers and Earth Wind and Fire. Ritz crackers aren’t too complicated… they are crackers. So why make a complicated commercial? Ritz didn’t and I applaud them for it. They mix in a marching band, Tiki Barber for the football tie-in and Earth Wind and Fire’s Let’s Groove tonight which is scientifically proven to make you groove.
6:10pm- Player introductions… Guys are pretty pumped up. I wonder if we’ll hear any cursing on the field. Speaking of which, with this being the Super Bowl and all I want to see that New Orleans team “300” pre-game ritual up close.
6:16pm- I noticed this is the Hyundai pregame show and that made me wonder if we’ll hear from Toyota tonight. They have as much damage control and trust issues as Tiger Woods right now so I’m thinking this might be a golden, albeit expensive opportunity to start turning it around. Now that I think about it, Tiger should have bought some ad time and tried to start the long road to repairing his image.
6:18pm- Queen Latifah? I thought she was more of a rapper than a singer, Chicago notwithstanding. Needless to say I’ll be a little skeptical.
6:21pm- Okay I liked the presentation and the way the song was done but the Queen may be more of a peasant when it comes to belting out a tune. I’ll give her a B- for a good try though.
6:23pm- I liked Carrie Underwood’s rendition of the national anthem a little better but I don’t know how much she truly loves America, after all she is marrying a Canadian hockey player from Ottawa. She gets a B.
6:28pm- Emmitt Smith’s coin toss almost went right into the Saints. I’m glad it didn’t hit anything or anyone because with as charged up and competitive these guys are right now it might have resulted in a 5 minute argument: “you didn’t call no interference” “no interference doesn’t have to be called, it’s a given”
6:30pm- Phil Simms just said “bad weather brings teams closer together” meaning that it offsets the difference in talent a little bit. It’s a valid point but makes me feel depressed because if you think about it the Bills haven’t made the playoffs in 10 years despite having bad weather some of the time.
6:33pm- Wow aggressive throw by Drew Brees on 3rd down. The man wasn’t open by much and the throw was not that great but at least he missed him long so it wasn’t costly. Between that throw and the play before where it looked like he had happy feet in the pocket I wonder if Drew is a bit nervous. You couldn’t blame him if he is. Although if he is, I hope he snaps out of it soon because that cool customer on the other sideline might put up a few quick scores before the nervous people settle in. In fact his first 3 throws have been perfect!
6:42pm- Although the Saints held the Colts to only a field goal on that opening drive, it didn’t really feel like they stopped the Colts as much as Peyton missed a throw. Still though, 3 is better than 7 against. Now I hope Drew Brees can get it going.
6:43pm- The first funny Super Bowl commercial followed by the pro-life one we’ve heard about all week. The “you’re playing like Betty White” bit was good and then to add Abe Vigoda at the end was frosting on the cake. As far as the Tim Tebow pro-life spot, it wasn’t as offensive as I thought it would be but I still do not think a football game is the time and place for such topics.
6:51pm- Colston taking one off the face, boy that’s embarrassing. Good thing there weren’t 50 million people watching or anything. That basically killed the drive. At least they pinned the Colts down deep in their territory but I don’t like the way this is going so far.
6:53pm- Bud Light commercial, it’s the end of the world what do we do? Bud Light? Really? If the world was going to end I’d sho’nuff be drinking top shelf hooch not bargain basement beer water.
6:55pm- The Colts just ran for 16 on that last play and then 10 more a few plays later. I know the Saints are petrified about Manning and they should be but they cannot give up huge runs. It might be curtains for them if the Colts can run the ball effectively throughout the game because the Colts are actually one of the league’s worst running teams.
7:02pm- The Simpsons Coca Cola commercial was cute but why do you need the Simpsons for that? You could have made the same commercial with no name actors and the same premise. Although right afterwards I give 2 thumbs up to Go Daddy for Danica Patrick getting a massage. Yeah it wasn’t too revealing but at this point in the Super Bowl I’ll take what I can get.
7:06pm- If you thought the voice box song effect hadn’t jumped the shark a year or two ago when every song on the radio was using it, I think it leaped over the shark right now with this Bud Light commercial. I have a theory that the worse a beer is the more you have to advertise for it. Think about your favorite beer and how often you see a commercial for it. Now compare that to how many Bud Light, Coors Light, Budweiser, and Miller Lite commercials you see. I think the only exception to this rule would be the introduction of a new beer but I think you get the point. Also no one give Cher the love she deserves. About 10 years ago she used the voice box effect to a huge top 10 smash song about believing about love after love. No one gives her the credit she deserves… at least as far as that goes.
7:08pm- By the way that Colts touchdown has put my mind on the verge of panic mode. The Saints MUST score on this drive. As I mentioned early on, the Saints had to get past the nerves fast because Peyton isn’t nervous and he is that damn good.
7:12pm- I was just about to ask where Pierre Thomas was but it appears he has been found. The Saints and Drew Brees especially could use the balance of a strong running threat. The Colts defense is fast but not big and strong. If you can run it right at them you can wear them down.
7:16pm- The Saints have to settle for a field goal after a nasty Freeney one armed sack. For the rest of the game the Saints will need touchdowns and not field goals but one this occasion they needed to get on the board so it was nice to get something.
7:20pm- Leno and Letterman in the same commercial… only at the Super Bowl.
7:22pm- I bet that was the first time there were ever two pantsless commercials in a row. Not that I’m counting and not that I am a fan.
7:23pm- Whether you like Brett Favre or you don’t you have to respect that he’ll make fun of himself.
7:25pm- Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good and Pierre Garcon dropping that 3rd down throw may have kept this game, a game. If he caught that at full speed like he was going he might have had a chance to score. Now if the Saints can score a TD here and tie the game I’ll be thrilled. Oh and quick shout out to the NFL network for using Arcade Fire in their commercial for the draft.
7:37pm- It’s the two minute warning and 3rd and goal at the 1. If I’m the Saints I’m going into 4-down territory here. To have pretty much dominated this quarter of play and come out of it with 2 field goals and to go down at least 4 points at the half is unacceptable. They are bigger on the line of scrimmage than the Colts and it needs to come out here.
7:39pm-I thought Mike Bell was the power back for goalline situations. He looked like Reggie Bush running east and west there. If it’s not there put your head down and get back to the line of scrimmage or at least a half yard to make 4th down more doable. Do not run it wide and lose yardage. Now with a yard and a half to 2 yards to go this becomes a real gamble whether they kick it or not.
7:50pm- I must admit I thought this was going to be a blowout after that first quarter was dominated by the Colts but then the Saints turned it around and owned the 2nd quarter. Unfortunately their huge advantages in time of possession and yards (143 yards to 15 yards) translated only into 2 field goals and left them still facing a 4 point deficit when the 2nd half begins. It was not the exciting offensive shootout I was both expecting and hoping for but it wasn’t a snoosefest either. Now it’s time to recharge the batteries and take in the Who.
8:13pm- Did everyone play along with the Who? It was like they were on the Guitar Hero stage and since it would light up on the beat I assumed if I had a controller and the game I could have played along. It was perfectly fine entertainment but it does seem a bit formulaic since Janet Jackson’s nipple. Ever since then it has been book all time great band/artist, do medley of hits, shoot fireworks, have crazy light show and visuals. It’s a good time albeit safe. I guess like I mentioned about not having political or religious commercials on the Super Bowl, perhaps this is how it should be, established and legendary performers instead of the flavor of the month. It makes me appreciate Prince’s appearance a few years ago a bit more. He played a few hits but also sprinkled in some covers too. How cool was that? You won’t see the Who doing any Bob Dylan tunes up there.
8:22pm- Onside kick to start the 2nd half. Wake up everybody! You have to love the cojones to attempt such a play. If the Colts recovered with a very short field it could very well be 17-6. But with the Saints recovering the kick even a field goal would be good as it would put them within a point but if the Saints were to go up 13-10 with the Colts on their heels, this would be very interesting. Plus it would be the first time tonight that pressure would be on Peyton Manning, who I might add hasn’t really thrown a pass in nearly an hour.
8:27pm- Touchdown Saints! The Saints look unafraid and more importantly have finally found the endzone. They are really starting to click. Drew looks locked in. It’s on now.
8:30pm- What the freak? First Arcade Fire in a commercial and now Grizzly Bear? Maybe I’m not as cool as I thought I was.
8:37pm- As I watch the Colts march right back down the field I’m starting to wonder if the shootout I was expecting in the 1st half may finally be here. Your serve New Orleans.
8:40pm- The KGB woman is fine.
8:44pm- Another commercial concept that has jumped the shark: the e-trade baby. It’s not even the same voice from last year’s commercials. If you are going to beat a concept to death at least maintain continuity so you can really wring out every drop of use from it.
8:59pm- Reggie Wayne has been REALLY quiet thus far.
9:07pm- Watching Drew Brees carve up the Colts secondary with passes all over the field, to all different receivers is like watching football art. It also makes me pine for a real quarterback for Buffalo. It’s been too long. Meanwhile I think it’s a matter of time before the Saints score.
9:15pm- I hope the Saints challenge that 2-point conversion. I’d give it to him.
9:19pm- Wow a 7 point game with 5 minutes and change and the best of the best taking the ball in an attempt to tie it. This is football!
9:21pm- Darn it, I was hoping to go through the whole game without hearing a chicken scream. Oh well.
9:26pm- The Green Police inside of my head! This Audi spot has been my favorite commercial of the night thus far. Yes even better than Danica’s rubdown and the KGB woman. “You picked the wrong day to mess with the ecosystem” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq58zS4_jvM
9:29pm- The GAMEBREAKER! Pick 6 by the Saints and finally a team makes a mistake. In a game where no one had turned the ball over and the score was so close it makes sense that the one mistake made by someone could cost their team the game. I have too much respect for Peyton Manning to say this is over but I think I hear the fat lady tuning up.
9:37pm- The best Colts defender Dwight Freeney has either not played in the 2nd half or has been invisible because of his injury. It’s probably no coincidence that Drew Brees hasn’t had much pressure in the 2nd half and has looked amazing. He’s my MVP tonight.
9:43pm- There she goes! It’s over and let the party begin on Bourbon Street. Just a few years back before Drew Brees’ arrival in New Orleans no one would have guessed that a traditionally non successful franchise like the Saints would be winning the Super Bowl. It gives me hope that the little guys can win it every once in a while. I’m sure it also gives hope to the Cleveland’s, Seattle’s, Cincinnati’s, etc.
Who dat? Super Bowl Champs!
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