I have a lot to say but not a lot of time to say it this week. So I'll keep it short but sweet.
War Horse
Sometimes things are obvious. Sometimes things stare you in the face and invite you to welcome them into your life. There always seems to be a catch: what if the obvious thing is clearly not the right thing but we don't figure it out until it's too late? But then again, sometimes it is the right thing now and will be then.
"What the hell am I lookin at?!"
"We're at now now, sir."
"What happened to then?"
"We just passed it."
"When will then be now?"
"Soon!"
That's a slow pitch softball, but 10 points if you know the movie. That first paragraph felt like it was drifting into that realm... but I digress.
Trent Richardson is obvious. And he's as obvious now as he will be next week, next month, next year and ten years from now. The more I pontificate (you like that word, admit it!) on Thursday's draft, the clearer it becomes. It's so clear to me that I actually got upset this afternoon at rumors that the Vikings are fielding serious offers to trade away the third pick to a team desperate to move ahead of the Browns and acquire the services of Richardson. What may very well be the safest pick in the draft, especially in the number four slot, filling a huge hole for the Browns offense, putting a face to the franchise, giving us a stud to buy jersey's of, someone for the opposition to rightly fear, how "Cleveland" would it be if St. Louis or even Tampa Bay jumps up to three and steals Richardson from Tom Heckert? What could be worse than that? Heckert passing on Richardson.
Scarlet and Oh My God did you see the warmup?!
The scarlet and grey game was great. It was exciting seeing Urban Meyer on the field in Ohio State gear commanding the troops. Braxton Miller looked like I expected him too, a little green but dangerous. Bri'onte Dunn is bigger and faster than I ever thought, and I seen him in high school. Not much in the way of schemes defensively, and for obvious reasons.
I really liked the way the offenses utilized the short passing game. How many times have we watched the Ohio State receivers and backs be given eight to ten yard cushions by defenses in the past? We've all stood in our living rooms or section 28A and screamed "for the love of God, can we hit a slant pattern or someone in the flats?!" We seen a good amount of that Saturday, and while it's basic and some would say simple, it serves a twofold purpose. 1. It takes advantage of the old "take what the defense gives you" cliche'. If you're going to give us a wide open slant, out route in the flat or swing pass to a tailback, even if the worst that comes of it is the five to eight yard cushion, I'll take it. It gets confidence and rhythm in the quarterback, it forces the defense to change what they are doing, not to mention it sets up a very manageable second or third and very short. 2. And maybe most importantly, it gets the ball into the hands of your playmakers in space and allows them the opportunity to show why they were so heavily recruited. Jordan Hall one on one with a linebacker in the flats is a matchup I'll gladly take all afternoon.
But forget the game, the real excitement was in the first five minutes when Urban Meyer brought the players to the block O in the center of the field and started an impromptu one-on-one "move your guy out of the circle" old fashioned hoot and holler drill! With Meyer in the center calling out matchups, the players reacting accordingly with oohs and ahhs and lots of cheering and helmet slapping. Competition at it's finest: You versus me, mano e mano, in front of the entire team, Urban Meyer, the coaching staff and 80,000 fans. I was in my living room bouncing up and down, smiling from ear to ear, cheering along as the matchups were called out. When Urban yelled "Kenny Guitton!" and followed it with "Braxton Miller!" even I went "Ohhhhhhhh!!!!" along with the team from the friendly confines of my apartment! What a few moments and what a way for Urban Meyer to kick off his era at Ohio State. It was almost as if he planned to use those few minutes, right when the television broadcast began on the Big Ten Network to tell the world "You wanna see what we've been doing while you were throwing dirt on and at us? This is what's coming this fall, bowl game be damned. Hope everyone's ready!"
Call me an old stupid jock, whatever you want, I can take it. The fact is some of the best moments of my life, some of the truly unforgettable experiences, happened between the white lines of a football field. I only played from pee-wee through high school, but the love for the sport that was instilled in me by my parents, my uncle, the community I grew up in and played for, did a lot to shape the person I am today. While I'm not one of these guys who thinks "I played football, so I'm smarter at it than you" I am one of these guys who says if you haven't played it you truly cannot and will not understand what you missed. Camaraderie, teammates, the battle. Spending a week preparing for an opponent, learning their tendencies, strengths and weakness. Watching that plan unfold, for better or worse, in the game.
But it's more than that. Every movie about football ever made has tried to nail all the cliche's. But they aren't cliche's if you've experienced them in reality. I wish everyone could experience being in a huddle. The feeling of accomplishment when you make your block, the guy next to you makes his, the fullback crashes the linebacker and you see the tailback fly past you into the endzone. Forget all the celebratory nonsense and posing. It's about what Urban Meyer showed you on Saturday. I got my guy, you get yours, we'll all get ours and feel like kings while we're doing it. Seeing that drill and the enthusiasm took me back. Man that was fun.
If you didn't get to see the "circle drill" on Saturday, the link below will take you to it. Just be prepared to get up and feel the adrenaline start pumping.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7GGqIQwjl4
You said short!
I did say short, which is why I'm wrapping it up now.
Until next time, SEE YA!!!
METALLICA track of the week
Fade To Black It is classic. It is epic. Before the close, during the pause, when James says to whatever city they are in "Cleveland, CAN YOU FEEL IT?! DO YOU FEEL WHAT I FEEL?!!" is pure goosebumps for this guy! Here's an epic live performance from 2010.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4N9ZIrXq4U
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Flirtin' with disaster
Hard to believe the 2012 Scarlet and Grey game is already coming up this Saturday. Times fly's when you're having fun, I guess.
I hope some of you were able to attend this past Saturday's student/faculty BuckID open practice. I gave a brief reminder on this last week. It seemed as though it was going to be a pretty exclusive event and something not to be missed if you had the means to get in. Unfortunately due to the weather, it was moved from Ohio Stadium into the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. For some reason when I first heard they moved it inside to the WHAC, my initial thought was "that would be so much cooler than having it in The Shoe." After seeing the photo's from the various Buckeye websites and the Dispatch, that first premonition was confirmed resoundingly.
Despite my constantly telling you to check them for the best and most in-depth news,
I am in know way affiliated with the O-Zone. But, once again they were all over Saturday's BuckID practice in The Woody. Check www.theozone.net for great stories and amazing pictures from this incredible event.
While it was just another spring practice for the team, it was anything but another spring practice for the players. Getting to perform or train in front of fans is no doubt a part of why these guys do it. Of course their is the glory of winning, the camaraderie of being on a team focused on achievement, a chance to potentially make millions in the NFL, and a free education. But don't think for a moment these guys aren't stepping it up another notch, even in practice, when there are fans in the stands. You've heard the phrase "game speed" versus practice speed. And it's not just a cliche', it's true for most athletes on any level.
If you haven't read about the open practice, and definitely if you haven't seen any pictures from the open practice, what Urban Meyer did to Drew Basil was truly fantastic for the fans in attendance and had to be the best way to achieve a kick under pressure for Basil in a practice setting! Open this link to see Tony Gerdeman of the O-zone's photo http://twitpic.com/99sz7c
Spring fling
There a lots of things to watch for on Saturday during the Scarlet and Grey Game. Here are a few of the things I'm looking forward to seeing:
- Offensive speed from the end of one play to the snap of the next Along with that, I'm interested to see just how fluid things look at the line of scrimmage and with substitutions. It will be a good indicator of how quickly these guys are absorbing the Meyer playbook. There's going to errors, but a low count on false starts and illegal procedures can be a great tell as to how the offense is coming together.
- Braxton's decision making and accuracy Yes, it's only the spring game. But a Braxton Miller looking confident, precise and in tune with his receivers will make the summer even more unbearable to wait through.
- The absolute monster on the defensive line John Simon is easily one of my favorite Buckeye players in the last who knows how many years. I wanna see if anyone on the offensive line can keep him out of the backfield. That's it. Just contain him a few times.
- Team speed on defense The Silver Bullets flying around. Curtis Grant, Ryan Shazier, CJ Barnett, Travis Howard... We've all read and seen pictures of what strength coach Mickey Marotti did to Ryan Shazier in just one winter. I am dying to see if they look (and I'll bet they will) noticeably faster at linebacker and in the secondary. Don't forget sophomore Michael Bennett coming off the end opposite John Simon.
How much do you miss football Saturday's? Me too. Take advantage this Saturday to whet your football desire and be fully involved. If you can't make it to Ohio Stadium for the game, then try and get down the Lane Avenue after. If you can't make it to the game area, for lack of better term, then turn on WFAN 97.1 for the pre, game and post game broadcasts. And if you're out of town like me, plug in online and get lost for a few hours in Buckeye football. You deserve it.
Quick hits
Watching the Cavaliers on NBA League Pass, around half the time I'm subjected to the other teams broadcast. A few observations I've picked up listening to many opponent broadcasts:
- Most feel the Cavs must get Kyrie Irving an all-star caliber rookie or free agent/trade immediately. Duh.
- There's a lot of "get back" from the announcers due to some of the beatings teams took during the LeBron era, notably the Washington Wizard broadcast from Saturday night. You think we don't let stuff go...
- Fox Sports Net regional channels along with Comcast Sports Net and even the Madison Square Garden Network have a nice treat for the male fans during quarter and tv timeout breaks. She's typically dressed like a "normal chick" and tries to say something hip about the game, but she's really there for us to go "I wanna go to a game and see her in person!" or something like that (you stalkers all loved that!) Fox Sports Ohio has Jeff Phelps. While he is superior to all these lady's in hoops knowledge, understanding what's happening during the game, listening to coaches during timeouts to get an idea of what is going to happen, he's still Jeff Phelps. And they're, well, they're them! And don't tell me about Dionne Whatsherface either, she doesn't count.
- I'm sticking with my draft pick of Trent Richardson. He makes the most sense. He's one of the 4 or 5 elite talents in this years draft. He runs angry. He blocks like he was born to do it. He has soft hands. He's elusive. He's got speed. "Experts" are grading him in the Adrian Peterson range... All of which are reason's why the Browns will probably trade out of the four spot or take Ryan Tannehill. I really really really really hope I'm wrong. Sometimes the answers are really simple and right in front of your face, like Joe Thomas was. Tommy Heckert, Mr. Big Show Holmgren, don't over-think this. Take Richardson at four.
- So apparently since my last blog came out a week ago, Michael Floyd has risen the charts like Pedro Cerrano with a rocket up his ass. Some are saying he may even go as high as nine or ten. I will stick my original plan: If a trade is to be had, and it doesn't involve next years number one, I'd do it. Even if you lose pick 22 and 37, you still walk away on Thursday night with Trent Richardson (God willingly) and Michael Floyd. That's something to be excited about.
- Why is everyone so down on the Browns because of the schedule? Talk about Chicken Little and the sky falling... It's dates and opponents on a schedule. Some of them are against teams that were pretty good last year or have acquired some pretty good players. People, this is the NFL. You all freaked out accordingly when the Browns were crushed in the opener by Pittsburgh in 2007. How did that season turn out? Have some faith in Dick Juron and that Brad Childress can help Pat Shurmur be the best Pat Shurmur he can be. And we have no idea what that even looks like. You, me, we're all Browns fans, how often have we been the favorite in our lifetime?
- The Indians are playing baseball. That's all I got on Cleveland's "major league" baseball team. They did, however, sign Johnny Damon. I'll take anyone right now.
NASCAR? Why not...
I took about a twenty minute ride on Easter weekend with my pops to Kannapolis and Mooresville to see Hendrick Motorsports and DEI (Dale Earnhardt Inc) headquarters and race shops. I'm not much of a race fan, yet it does peak my interest on occasion and is something I will watch when any of he Hendrick drivers, especially Dale Earnhardt Jr, are in the front. Back to my point, those shops are amazing! They don't allow tours of the facility on Saturday's, but the team shop and trophy rooms are open to the public.
When entering the Hendrick "team shop/trophy" room, you instantly realize that this is no team shop. Sure, you can get any type of hat, t-shirt, sticker etc of the HMS drivers that you can ever imagine and more, but the items they have on display are truly historic. And the place is HUGE.
Wanna see the car that Jeff Gordon won the first ever Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis in? And not just see it, but be able to stand so close to it that you can't help but not accidentally bump in to it? It's there.
Want to see Jimmy Johnson's car he won the championship in a few years ago, with rubber spatter and dirt from the track still on it? It's there.
Wanna see one of Jeff Gordon's Daytona 500 winning cars, fresh with champagne and soft drink streaks still on the windshield and confetti permanently fused to the car from the sticky mess? It's there. Want to see your dad reach down and start removing tape from the radiator cover of said car despite signs everywhere imploring people to not touch a damn thing? It happened.
And I can't even begin to recollect all the trophies, helmets, gloves, fire suits, artifacts, etc. that are on display at HMS. It was pretty awesome!
Though it is no Hendrick Motorsports, DEI was impressive as well. Coming around a back country bend on a stretch of highway that looks straight out of a Tim McGraw music video, in the distance you can see an ugly beige massive structure emerging. It is Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Checkered flags on the side walks. Red and black number 3's everywhere.
Upon entry, you are greeted by one of Dale Earnhardt's black "Intimidator" #3 cars and a constant loop (with words and instrumental) of AC/DC's "Back in Black". All seven of his championship trophies are on display, along with historic cars driven by DEI team members, including Dale Jr's Daytona 500 winning ride. Oh, and there's a team shop stuffed with every number 3 item you can ever imagine.
It was definitely a great experience on an absolutely beautiful North Carolina day without a cloud in the sky. Next time, we go when the shops are open and we can take the tours. I can get in to a lot more trouble that way!
Until next time, SEE YA!
Metallica track of the week
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted new members in Cleveland this past Saturday night. The last time the induction was in Cleveland, I was there to see Metallica get inducted. Here is the nights performance of Enter Sandman with former bassist Jason Newsted! (BTW it sucks that James didn't get to do his normal vocal exercises before this performance... and just to rub it in one more time, I was at this!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jBSH7fjTN8
I hope some of you were able to attend this past Saturday's student/faculty BuckID open practice. I gave a brief reminder on this last week. It seemed as though it was going to be a pretty exclusive event and something not to be missed if you had the means to get in. Unfortunately due to the weather, it was moved from Ohio Stadium into the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. For some reason when I first heard they moved it inside to the WHAC, my initial thought was "that would be so much cooler than having it in The Shoe." After seeing the photo's from the various Buckeye websites and the Dispatch, that first premonition was confirmed resoundingly.
Despite my constantly telling you to check them for the best and most in-depth news,
I am in know way affiliated with the O-Zone. But, once again they were all over Saturday's BuckID practice in The Woody. Check www.theozone.net for great stories and amazing pictures from this incredible event.
While it was just another spring practice for the team, it was anything but another spring practice for the players. Getting to perform or train in front of fans is no doubt a part of why these guys do it. Of course their is the glory of winning, the camaraderie of being on a team focused on achievement, a chance to potentially make millions in the NFL, and a free education. But don't think for a moment these guys aren't stepping it up another notch, even in practice, when there are fans in the stands. You've heard the phrase "game speed" versus practice speed. And it's not just a cliche', it's true for most athletes on any level.
If you haven't read about the open practice, and definitely if you haven't seen any pictures from the open practice, what Urban Meyer did to Drew Basil was truly fantastic for the fans in attendance and had to be the best way to achieve a kick under pressure for Basil in a practice setting! Open this link to see Tony Gerdeman of the O-zone's photo http://twitpic.com/99sz7c
Spring fling
There a lots of things to watch for on Saturday during the Scarlet and Grey Game. Here are a few of the things I'm looking forward to seeing:
- Offensive speed from the end of one play to the snap of the next Along with that, I'm interested to see just how fluid things look at the line of scrimmage and with substitutions. It will be a good indicator of how quickly these guys are absorbing the Meyer playbook. There's going to errors, but a low count on false starts and illegal procedures can be a great tell as to how the offense is coming together.
- Braxton's decision making and accuracy Yes, it's only the spring game. But a Braxton Miller looking confident, precise and in tune with his receivers will make the summer even more unbearable to wait through.
- The absolute monster on the defensive line John Simon is easily one of my favorite Buckeye players in the last who knows how many years. I wanna see if anyone on the offensive line can keep him out of the backfield. That's it. Just contain him a few times.
- Team speed on defense The Silver Bullets flying around. Curtis Grant, Ryan Shazier, CJ Barnett, Travis Howard... We've all read and seen pictures of what strength coach Mickey Marotti did to Ryan Shazier in just one winter. I am dying to see if they look (and I'll bet they will) noticeably faster at linebacker and in the secondary. Don't forget sophomore Michael Bennett coming off the end opposite John Simon.
How much do you miss football Saturday's? Me too. Take advantage this Saturday to whet your football desire and be fully involved. If you can't make it to Ohio Stadium for the game, then try and get down the Lane Avenue after. If you can't make it to the game area, for lack of better term, then turn on WFAN 97.1 for the pre, game and post game broadcasts. And if you're out of town like me, plug in online and get lost for a few hours in Buckeye football. You deserve it.
Quick hits
Watching the Cavaliers on NBA League Pass, around half the time I'm subjected to the other teams broadcast. A few observations I've picked up listening to many opponent broadcasts:
- Most feel the Cavs must get Kyrie Irving an all-star caliber rookie or free agent/trade immediately. Duh.
- There's a lot of "get back" from the announcers due to some of the beatings teams took during the LeBron era, notably the Washington Wizard broadcast from Saturday night. You think we don't let stuff go...
- Fox Sports Net regional channels along with Comcast Sports Net and even the Madison Square Garden Network have a nice treat for the male fans during quarter and tv timeout breaks. She's typically dressed like a "normal chick" and tries to say something hip about the game, but she's really there for us to go "I wanna go to a game and see her in person!" or something like that (you stalkers all loved that!) Fox Sports Ohio has Jeff Phelps. While he is superior to all these lady's in hoops knowledge, understanding what's happening during the game, listening to coaches during timeouts to get an idea of what is going to happen, he's still Jeff Phelps. And they're, well, they're them! And don't tell me about Dionne Whatsherface either, she doesn't count.
- I'm sticking with my draft pick of Trent Richardson. He makes the most sense. He's one of the 4 or 5 elite talents in this years draft. He runs angry. He blocks like he was born to do it. He has soft hands. He's elusive. He's got speed. "Experts" are grading him in the Adrian Peterson range... All of which are reason's why the Browns will probably trade out of the four spot or take Ryan Tannehill. I really really really really hope I'm wrong. Sometimes the answers are really simple and right in front of your face, like Joe Thomas was. Tommy Heckert, Mr. Big Show Holmgren, don't over-think this. Take Richardson at four.
- So apparently since my last blog came out a week ago, Michael Floyd has risen the charts like Pedro Cerrano with a rocket up his ass. Some are saying he may even go as high as nine or ten. I will stick my original plan: If a trade is to be had, and it doesn't involve next years number one, I'd do it. Even if you lose pick 22 and 37, you still walk away on Thursday night with Trent Richardson (God willingly) and Michael Floyd. That's something to be excited about.
- Why is everyone so down on the Browns because of the schedule? Talk about Chicken Little and the sky falling... It's dates and opponents on a schedule. Some of them are against teams that were pretty good last year or have acquired some pretty good players. People, this is the NFL. You all freaked out accordingly when the Browns were crushed in the opener by Pittsburgh in 2007. How did that season turn out? Have some faith in Dick Juron and that Brad Childress can help Pat Shurmur be the best Pat Shurmur he can be. And we have no idea what that even looks like. You, me, we're all Browns fans, how often have we been the favorite in our lifetime?
- The Indians are playing baseball. That's all I got on Cleveland's "major league" baseball team. They did, however, sign Johnny Damon. I'll take anyone right now.
NASCAR? Why not...
I took about a twenty minute ride on Easter weekend with my pops to Kannapolis and Mooresville to see Hendrick Motorsports and DEI (Dale Earnhardt Inc) headquarters and race shops. I'm not much of a race fan, yet it does peak my interest on occasion and is something I will watch when any of he Hendrick drivers, especially Dale Earnhardt Jr, are in the front. Back to my point, those shops are amazing! They don't allow tours of the facility on Saturday's, but the team shop and trophy rooms are open to the public.
When entering the Hendrick "team shop/trophy" room, you instantly realize that this is no team shop. Sure, you can get any type of hat, t-shirt, sticker etc of the HMS drivers that you can ever imagine and more, but the items they have on display are truly historic. And the place is HUGE.
Wanna see the car that Jeff Gordon won the first ever Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis in? And not just see it, but be able to stand so close to it that you can't help but not accidentally bump in to it? It's there.
Want to see Jimmy Johnson's car he won the championship in a few years ago, with rubber spatter and dirt from the track still on it? It's there.
Wanna see one of Jeff Gordon's Daytona 500 winning cars, fresh with champagne and soft drink streaks still on the windshield and confetti permanently fused to the car from the sticky mess? It's there. Want to see your dad reach down and start removing tape from the radiator cover of said car despite signs everywhere imploring people to not touch a damn thing? It happened.
And I can't even begin to recollect all the trophies, helmets, gloves, fire suits, artifacts, etc. that are on display at HMS. It was pretty awesome!
Though it is no Hendrick Motorsports, DEI was impressive as well. Coming around a back country bend on a stretch of highway that looks straight out of a Tim McGraw music video, in the distance you can see an ugly beige massive structure emerging. It is Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Checkered flags on the side walks. Red and black number 3's everywhere.
Upon entry, you are greeted by one of Dale Earnhardt's black "Intimidator" #3 cars and a constant loop (with words and instrumental) of AC/DC's "Back in Black". All seven of his championship trophies are on display, along with historic cars driven by DEI team members, including Dale Jr's Daytona 500 winning ride. Oh, and there's a team shop stuffed with every number 3 item you can ever imagine.
It was definitely a great experience on an absolutely beautiful North Carolina day without a cloud in the sky. Next time, we go when the shops are open and we can take the tours. I can get in to a lot more trouble that way!
Until next time, SEE YA!
Metallica track of the week
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted new members in Cleveland this past Saturday night. The last time the induction was in Cleveland, I was there to see Metallica get inducted. Here is the nights performance of Enter Sandman with former bassist Jason Newsted! (BTW it sucks that James didn't get to do his normal vocal exercises before this performance... and just to rub it in one more time, I was at this!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jBSH7fjTN8
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Embrace The Hate
I have to salute the dudes at Buckeye Empire (www.buckeyeempire.com) I salute them for gathering the collective thoughts of all Ohio State fans, pulling them together into one pent up bundle of frustration and coming up with a slogan that we can and all should get behind (literally because it's on a t-shirt): Embrace The Hate. Because the hate isn't going anywhere. Even when things seem docile and the focus is on other sports or events, someone, somewhere is going to take a leap at fame and take a shot at the Ohio State football program. It is inevitable. Why not embrace it?
Look at the amount of "we have the REAL story on what it is REALLYhappening at Ohio State" stories and ask yourself: would you rather be a lower rung Big Ten team? Would you rather have loudmouth Bert Bielema pacing your sidelines, leading your team to another Rose Bowl loss or a shot at perfect insignificance? Would you rather be a UCLA Bruin? A Domer? To me, the hate is nothing but recognition of excellence. So, like my guys at Buckeye Empire's t-shirt says, I'm embracing the hate. Bring it to me! I've said I was wrong, apologized and been slightly embarrassed enough since December 23rd, 2010. Now, I say get what you got, pack a lunch and bring it! The bottom line is that they hate us because they ain't us!
By the way, I also have to give kudo's to the guys at Buckeye Empire for having a website under construction yet operating a fully functional web store. It's very tongue in cheek when I say, nice priorities fella's! (literally, laugh out loud) But I say that in jest, their twitter feed alone is enough to make me want one of their shirts. Good work boys!
All of this leads me to this weeks hack writer of an "in-depth" and "fully researched" and filled with completely credible eyewitness testimony expose' that will expose Urban Meyer for what he truly is: an ex-SEC football coach.
That's right, I'm talking to you Matt Hayes. Way to go all out and spend three months investigating these "stories" and putting on your best George Doerhmann impersonation. This was going to be it for you, wasn't it? This was "the big one", the one that was going to catch your cell phone on fire with the big boys of tv calling and begging you to come on and be their star guest and discuss this brilliant work. This was going to win you a Pulitzer for sport journalism. Just start calling you "The most fascinating man alive." Screw that Dos Equis guy! You're Matt freaking Hayes!
Well luckily (?) the majority of the major media types looked right through the garbage and the Matt Hayes story never blew up like he and I'm sure Sporting News thought it would. Urban gave star players preferential treatment? Well, from what I've read from guys who played with him and aren't afraid to say their own names, YOU try dealing with Percy Harvin. And don't forget, if you toss him off the team or he quits, try explaining to the Florida media and fans how a guy like that is no longer on the team.
If you haven't, read Hayes article... if you want. Here's a link:
http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2012-04-09/urban-meyer-florida-ohio-state-ncaa-violation-recruiting-drugs-program-will-musc
Just know that Hayes himself went on Paul Finebaum's radio program the day it was released and said he feels the exact same things that Meyer allegedly did (favoritism, hiding failed marijuana tests, roster "manipulation" also known as over-signing)happen at "most major college campuses around the country". To me, this whole thing is a case of exactly what he said on Finebaum when asked what prompted him to research and write the story: "My editor asked me 'How did Florida fall so far so fast?" And instead of saying "Charlie Weis, Will Muschamp, a new offense that doesn't fit the players or the conference, a lack of talent on defense..." he decided to put on his Andy Rooney hat and dig in. The problem is, he didn't expose anything that anyone one who is honest with themselves and the state of college football didn't already know was in some capacity, to greater or lesser extents, already going on.
Way to go Matty. You took the movie "The Program" and adapted it to Florida's championship run in the mid-late 2000's. All the way down to Percy Harvin being cast as Darnell Jefferson.
You know who I want to hear from on this story? The guy I want to tell me what is fact and fiction amidst all this? Tim Tebow. If he's willing to speak, you know he (no pun intended) won't lie about what he has seen. It's funny that Tebow has never had a bad thing to say about Urban Meyer, yet all this was going on right in front of him...
Just to let you know where I stand with Urban Meyer, his recruiting tactics, his attitude, his drive, his willingness to destroy everyone he plays... I love it. All of it! I realize that means we can't recruit a team of Boy Scouts. So be it. With the sanctions levied on Ohio State right now, the way the eyes of the haters are focused on Columbus, begging for one guy to slip up, I trust Meyer and his staff are aware and keeping extra tabs on everyone. They have to, literally, they are on probation.
NFL Draft
Every time I've sat to write the last few weeks, I've told myself "You have to at least begin touching on the draft and who you want to see on their way to Cleveland" and then something else grabs my attention and I say "Ah well, next week." Well, we're running out of weeks!
The big question is who's coming off the board at number four? It seems likely that the Browns will have their choice of some serious quality stock. Justin Blackmon (WR OK ST), Trent Richardson (RB Alabama), Mo Claiborne (CB LSU) possibly even Matt Kalil (T USC). Unless they trade down, the pick is going to be one of these four players. For my money, it's Trent Richardson.
Rather than sit here and tell you all about Richardson and how he looks on film and stats etc, let me just explain the importance that Richardson can play on the Browns offense. Everyone hears "west coast offense" and instantly thinks it's Andre Ware and some variation of the run n' shoot whereby running backs are a dime a dozen and essentially wasted roster spots. Not so, as we seen last season. The tailback plays a huge role in this offense as a triple threat, running, catching and blocking. Richardson does them all and excels. And, love it or hate it, he did it against SEC defenses that were ripe with speed. Colt McCoy, or whoever is the quarterback, has got to have a reliable option in the backfield. I'm sorry, but Montario Hardesty and Peyton Hillis weren't, and in Hardesty's case still aren't, reliable feature running backs. Richardson will be. He will be that work horse back that everyone wants in fantasy football. Most importantly for the Cleveland Browns, he will score touchdowns, something that has been in short supply recently.
You can make a valid argument for any one of these guys. Blackmon is the big play receiver. Claiborne opposite Haden split by Ward is the real revival of the Dawg Pound secondary days of Hanford Dixon, Frank Minnifield and Al Gross. Kalil solidifies the offensive line into a juggernaut with himself opposite Joe Thomas with Alex Mack in between them at the center. I can get down with all of it. I just happen to hope they take Richardson. To me, he's the guy they need the most right now.
The big decision comes at 22, the Browns second first round pick acquired last year from Atlanta for the rights to draft Julio Jones. I think this pick has to be another skill position playmaker, just obviously not the same position as the guy they take at four. Since I stated I'd like to see them bag Richardson, for me the pick at 22 is Michael Floyd (WR Notre Lame). I like Floyd so much that I'd give up my second round pick and whatever else it took to get him in the event he doesn't fall to them and they have to trade up to pick him. He's got good enough speed, so stop it with that argument. His body control is incredible. His hands are like Spider-Man. He's fearless. He's played on a big stage since he started as a true freshman. I realize he's had a few off the field issues, but I say refer back to what I said a few paragraphs above about Urban Meyer's recruiting: they can't all be Boy Scouts if you expect to win.
If at the end of the night on Thursday, April 28th, the Cleveland Browns are on the draft board with the names Trent Richardson and Michael Floyd next to their orange helmet, we should be happy fans this fall.
Spring Reminder
A few reminders:
Saturday, April 14th, if you have a BuckID card (and if you don't, just forget about it because if you could get one you would have it because you need it)there is an open practice at The Shoe for anyone who brings their valid card. Follow @SaturdayAtShoe for more details. Looks like a lot of fun and great access!
Saturday, April 21st at 1:30 is the annual Scarlet and Grey game. If you can't be in Ohio Stadium (like, say, for example, you live in Charlotte, NC) it's being shown live on the Big Ten Network. Check local listings for channel designation. (Yes, I thought I was cool telling you to check local listings for channel designation)
Enough, wrap it up
It's been an interesting week since we last spoke/wrote/read/whatever. I hope everyone had a great Easter and realized I wasn't playing around when I said "Creeping Death" is the story of Passover, along with being a destructive metal force.
I took a ride up to Kannapolis and Mooresville this past Saturday, about a 15 minute hike, to Hendrick Motorsports and DEI Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Very impressive! If you're a NASCAR fan, you MUST visit the race shops. More on that next week!
Until next time, SEE YA!!!
Metallica track of the week
Since the first time I heard it, this song has captivated me. Dramatic word, yes. But true. Here's 'tallica playing Unforgiven live in Mexico City in 2009. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTc-3J6yQFk
Look at the amount of "we have the REAL story on what it is REALLYhappening at Ohio State" stories and ask yourself: would you rather be a lower rung Big Ten team? Would you rather have loudmouth Bert Bielema pacing your sidelines, leading your team to another Rose Bowl loss or a shot at perfect insignificance? Would you rather be a UCLA Bruin? A Domer? To me, the hate is nothing but recognition of excellence. So, like my guys at Buckeye Empire's t-shirt says, I'm embracing the hate. Bring it to me! I've said I was wrong, apologized and been slightly embarrassed enough since December 23rd, 2010. Now, I say get what you got, pack a lunch and bring it! The bottom line is that they hate us because they ain't us!
By the way, I also have to give kudo's to the guys at Buckeye Empire for having a website under construction yet operating a fully functional web store. It's very tongue in cheek when I say, nice priorities fella's! (literally, laugh out loud) But I say that in jest, their twitter feed alone is enough to make me want one of their shirts. Good work boys!
All of this leads me to this weeks hack writer of an "in-depth" and "fully researched" and filled with completely credible eyewitness testimony expose' that will expose Urban Meyer for what he truly is: an ex-SEC football coach.
That's right, I'm talking to you Matt Hayes. Way to go all out and spend three months investigating these "stories" and putting on your best George Doerhmann impersonation. This was going to be it for you, wasn't it? This was "the big one", the one that was going to catch your cell phone on fire with the big boys of tv calling and begging you to come on and be their star guest and discuss this brilliant work. This was going to win you a Pulitzer for sport journalism. Just start calling you "The most fascinating man alive." Screw that Dos Equis guy! You're Matt freaking Hayes!
Well luckily (?) the majority of the major media types looked right through the garbage and the Matt Hayes story never blew up like he and I'm sure Sporting News thought it would. Urban gave star players preferential treatment? Well, from what I've read from guys who played with him and aren't afraid to say their own names, YOU try dealing with Percy Harvin. And don't forget, if you toss him off the team or he quits, try explaining to the Florida media and fans how a guy like that is no longer on the team.
If you haven't, read Hayes article... if you want. Here's a link:
http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2012-04-09/urban-meyer-florida-ohio-state-ncaa-violation-recruiting-drugs-program-will-musc
Just know that Hayes himself went on Paul Finebaum's radio program the day it was released and said he feels the exact same things that Meyer allegedly did (favoritism, hiding failed marijuana tests, roster "manipulation" also known as over-signing)happen at "most major college campuses around the country". To me, this whole thing is a case of exactly what he said on Finebaum when asked what prompted him to research and write the story: "My editor asked me 'How did Florida fall so far so fast?" And instead of saying "Charlie Weis, Will Muschamp, a new offense that doesn't fit the players or the conference, a lack of talent on defense..." he decided to put on his Andy Rooney hat and dig in. The problem is, he didn't expose anything that anyone one who is honest with themselves and the state of college football didn't already know was in some capacity, to greater or lesser extents, already going on.
Way to go Matty. You took the movie "The Program" and adapted it to Florida's championship run in the mid-late 2000's. All the way down to Percy Harvin being cast as Darnell Jefferson.
You know who I want to hear from on this story? The guy I want to tell me what is fact and fiction amidst all this? Tim Tebow. If he's willing to speak, you know he (no pun intended) won't lie about what he has seen. It's funny that Tebow has never had a bad thing to say about Urban Meyer, yet all this was going on right in front of him...
Just to let you know where I stand with Urban Meyer, his recruiting tactics, his attitude, his drive, his willingness to destroy everyone he plays... I love it. All of it! I realize that means we can't recruit a team of Boy Scouts. So be it. With the sanctions levied on Ohio State right now, the way the eyes of the haters are focused on Columbus, begging for one guy to slip up, I trust Meyer and his staff are aware and keeping extra tabs on everyone. They have to, literally, they are on probation.
NFL Draft
Every time I've sat to write the last few weeks, I've told myself "You have to at least begin touching on the draft and who you want to see on their way to Cleveland" and then something else grabs my attention and I say "Ah well, next week." Well, we're running out of weeks!
The big question is who's coming off the board at number four? It seems likely that the Browns will have their choice of some serious quality stock. Justin Blackmon (WR OK ST), Trent Richardson (RB Alabama), Mo Claiborne (CB LSU) possibly even Matt Kalil (T USC). Unless they trade down, the pick is going to be one of these four players. For my money, it's Trent Richardson.
Rather than sit here and tell you all about Richardson and how he looks on film and stats etc, let me just explain the importance that Richardson can play on the Browns offense. Everyone hears "west coast offense" and instantly thinks it's Andre Ware and some variation of the run n' shoot whereby running backs are a dime a dozen and essentially wasted roster spots. Not so, as we seen last season. The tailback plays a huge role in this offense as a triple threat, running, catching and blocking. Richardson does them all and excels. And, love it or hate it, he did it against SEC defenses that were ripe with speed. Colt McCoy, or whoever is the quarterback, has got to have a reliable option in the backfield. I'm sorry, but Montario Hardesty and Peyton Hillis weren't, and in Hardesty's case still aren't, reliable feature running backs. Richardson will be. He will be that work horse back that everyone wants in fantasy football. Most importantly for the Cleveland Browns, he will score touchdowns, something that has been in short supply recently.
You can make a valid argument for any one of these guys. Blackmon is the big play receiver. Claiborne opposite Haden split by Ward is the real revival of the Dawg Pound secondary days of Hanford Dixon, Frank Minnifield and Al Gross. Kalil solidifies the offensive line into a juggernaut with himself opposite Joe Thomas with Alex Mack in between them at the center. I can get down with all of it. I just happen to hope they take Richardson. To me, he's the guy they need the most right now.
The big decision comes at 22, the Browns second first round pick acquired last year from Atlanta for the rights to draft Julio Jones. I think this pick has to be another skill position playmaker, just obviously not the same position as the guy they take at four. Since I stated I'd like to see them bag Richardson, for me the pick at 22 is Michael Floyd (WR Notre Lame). I like Floyd so much that I'd give up my second round pick and whatever else it took to get him in the event he doesn't fall to them and they have to trade up to pick him. He's got good enough speed, so stop it with that argument. His body control is incredible. His hands are like Spider-Man. He's fearless. He's played on a big stage since he started as a true freshman. I realize he's had a few off the field issues, but I say refer back to what I said a few paragraphs above about Urban Meyer's recruiting: they can't all be Boy Scouts if you expect to win.
If at the end of the night on Thursday, April 28th, the Cleveland Browns are on the draft board with the names Trent Richardson and Michael Floyd next to their orange helmet, we should be happy fans this fall.
Spring Reminder
A few reminders:
Saturday, April 14th, if you have a BuckID card (and if you don't, just forget about it because if you could get one you would have it because you need it)there is an open practice at The Shoe for anyone who brings their valid card. Follow @SaturdayAtShoe for more details. Looks like a lot of fun and great access!
Saturday, April 21st at 1:30 is the annual Scarlet and Grey game. If you can't be in Ohio Stadium (like, say, for example, you live in Charlotte, NC) it's being shown live on the Big Ten Network. Check local listings for channel designation. (Yes, I thought I was cool telling you to check local listings for channel designation)
Enough, wrap it up
It's been an interesting week since we last spoke/wrote/read/whatever. I hope everyone had a great Easter and realized I wasn't playing around when I said "Creeping Death" is the story of Passover, along with being a destructive metal force.
I took a ride up to Kannapolis and Mooresville this past Saturday, about a 15 minute hike, to Hendrick Motorsports and DEI Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Very impressive! If you're a NASCAR fan, you MUST visit the race shops. More on that next week!
Until next time, SEE YA!!!
Metallica track of the week
Since the first time I heard it, this song has captivated me. Dramatic word, yes. But true. Here's 'tallica playing Unforgiven live in Mexico City in 2009. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTc-3J6yQFk
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
I'm Not Mad About Anything
All good things must come to an end, and so did the Ohio State Buckeyes basketball season on Saturday night in the Final Four. Some say they choked after losing a thirteen point lead. Some say they looked ahead to Kentucky. Some incredibly blamed Thad Matta. Whatever you want to believe is the reason they lost is fine with me. It doesn't change the fact that it happened and we all had to suffer through Kansas looking like the JV against Kentucky's varsity. I'm not going to sit here and tell you Ohio State could have beaten Kentucky or even given them a better game than Kansas, but I sure wish we would have gotten the opportunity to find out.
Is it goodbye for Jared Sullinger and Deshaun Thomas? Consensus seems to be that yes, they are leaving despite not being ready. I'm not even sure what that means: ready? Have you seen the state of the NBA? Are you telling me Deshaun Thomas and Jared Sullinger, while certainly not being all-stars, couldn't have made considerable contributions to the Toronto Raptors, Charlotte Bobcats and even our own Cleveland Cavaliers? So what does "being ready" mean? To come in to the league and dominate like LeBron did? That's unrealistic. By that standard Anthony Davis isn't "ready". I want these guys back in scarlet and grey as much as the rest of Buckeye Nation. But if they feel entering the draft and getting paid millions, even if it is to be a role player, is what they want then more power to them. Of course, legitimate NBA talent evaluators who spend their afternoons in offices, classrooms and preparing sandwiches will laugh and call them stupid...
Last bit on the Buckeye hoops team, I found this season was a lot of fun. And that term gets thrown around a lot, especially lately, to describe mediocre teams with inferior talent (I'm talking to you Cleveland Indians fan who likes to say "Yeah, but the Tribe is fun to watch!") giving their all despite coming up short. Well this team won. And by fun, I mean it was fun watching them win despite ripping my hair out on several occasions during the Big Ten season. You want to know what's "fun"? Having a great team given little chance to win a season ending road game at Michigan State's Breslin Center, watching them go up there and dual Sparty in a classic that they win at the buzzer. That, my friends, is fun. You know what else is "fun"? Beating Syracuse to go to the Final Four and watching Jim Beoheim make faces like someone took a leak in his coffee and he is being forced to swallow it. That was fun!
So long William Buford. You gave us four years, a rarity in the college basketball world for a player that has your type of potential. Most thought he was a goner after his sophomore year. Good luck young man, we'll miss you!
World Wide Calipari
I'm not going to rant and rag on Kentucky and their what should be vacated national championship. I just have a few simple and honest questions:
How does Calipari pull a crop like that? Which leads to...
Why is World Wide Wes sitting behind the bench as a guest of Calipari? Which leads to...
Why is nobody questioning World Wide Wes sitting behind the bench as a guest of Calipari? You ask why World Wide Wes is a problem, which leads to...
Why is someone who works for an NBA agent, is widely known to be a power player in NBA meeting rooms, the guy who talked LeBron James into leaving his original agent Aaron Goodwin to sign with his boss Leon Rose, on the court hugging Anthony Davis after the national championship game?
So George Dohrmann wants to investigate tattoo's at Ohio State and stalk players at UCLA to tell stories about guys who had bad attitudes and left the program, but World Wide Wes hugging it out with the NCAA player of the year, ON THE COURT, doesn't peak his interest? And I don't mean to bag on Dohrmann exclusively. Where is Dan Wetzel or, God forbid, ESPN? The World Wide Leader even seems unfazed about World Wide Wes and his relationship to the Kentucky program.
Truly amazing. And people wonder why Ohio State fans feel like the media is always out to get their beloved. I'll stand behind this statement until someone can prove different: If World Wide Wes is involved, it isn't on the "up and up". Bank on it.
And maybe the best part of it all is Calipari's complete faith in Wes covering up and making whatever is happening so untraceable that he flaunts their relationship! He gives him tickets to sit behind the bench! Allows him on the court to hug the star player! Almost as if to say "Look at us! So what are you going to do about it?"
Truly amazing.
Radio Girl (it's a Volbeat song, look it up)
Stop complaining about local radio in Cleveland. Stop! If you don't like WKNR and especially Aaron Goldhammer (I personally want to throw up just mentioning their names) then don't listen! And I don't mean that in a righteous, defiant, "I can't hear you" smack talk way, I mean it literally.
Understand how radio works: Clown A, we'll call him "Rizz", gets a show on WRNK in Steubenville. As a professional, it's Rizz's job to go on the air and find what gets a reaction. Maybe acting like a fool and arguing ridiculous points draws the most callers and public talk about his show. Maybe he actually makes a lot of sense and that draws callers to his show and generates buzz. Maybe it's a series of crank calls and flatulence jokes. Whatever it is, whatever generates the buzz, good or bad, is what he will stick with. Notice the key phrase there, good or bad. Because whether you're agreeing with his intelligent points, screaming at the radio because of his smug attitude and unintelligible rambles, or laughing with him as he goes on a wild string of buffoonery, you're listening. And if you're listening, that means the guy is good as a show host, right? No! It means the station can sell advertisements at a higher rate and make WRNK in Stuebenville very rich!
If a program begins to lose ad money, it cannot survive. If you are not listening and talking about the program, they have no leverage when negotiating with sponsors, or sponsors simply say "nobody listens to that show" and pulls their funds. And series of events is how someone like Goldhammer will find himself with his bags packed and on his way to Pawnee for the afternoon drive polka show because it's the only work he can get, faster than you can say "I wanna punch Hammer in the mouth".
Instead, with Goldhammer, he agitates you. Then you rant and rave on Twitter and Facebook and call the show to tell him how much he needs to go. Well guess what? He wins.
Votto-Jeter-Cabrera
I didn't think much of the Reds signing Joey Votto to a ten year deal when I first heard about it. My initial reaction was "good for them" and I moved on with my evening. Then Tony Mazur @TonyMazur had to go and tweet this:
"@TonyMazur The Reds locked Joey Votto up for a decade. The Indians locked Asdrubal Cabrera up until Derek Jeter calls it quits."
And I instantly got upset because Tony is dead on. Nothing more needs to be said. This one statement completely defines the Dolan era as owner of the Cleveland Indians.
By the way, opening day is Thursday.
Finish him!
I hope everyone, despite the outcome, did as I suggested and had a great time watching the Final Four on Saturday night. Being new to Charlotte, I foolishly passed on the opportunity to watch the game with the Charlotte Buckeyes (www.charlottebuckeyes.com) My nerves and ridiculous superstitions kept me at home. And while Peanut and I had a great time yelling at the tv and sipping on Red Hook (thanks Dan Patrick show for bringing this product into my life) and a few Olde Mecklenbug Copper's (local brew that a few coworkers turned me on to) it still would have been more fun to be out with the crowd and cheering with the faithful. I regret it. It won't happen again.
And yes, Radio Girl is a fantastic song that mixes 50's pop with heavy metal by a band you need to take an interest in called Volbeat. Do yourself a favor, cut and paste the link and watch the video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfWXo9gKYJ0
Until next time, SEE YA!
Metallica track of the week:
Creeping Death
With Easter coming this Sunday, how could anything but a story about God not be our track of the week? With lyrics pulled directly from the bible, James Hetfield tells us the story of Passover, right down to the bush of fire! And the song, in my humble opinion, is hands down the best concert opener they do.
Here they are opening the Big Four show in Sofia, Bulgaria with our track of the week! I found a clip that include the "Ecstasy of Gold" classic intro that they've had for some 26 of the 30 years they have been a band. You know me pretty well by now, you know my affinity for sports and love for my teams... nothing, and I mean nothing, beats the moment you are about to see for me. There is no more adrenaline/excitement pumping through me than this moment right here. Sorry, it may be disappointing to you. Can't help it. There is no place in the world I'd rather be!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTMWaxLCpAs
Is it goodbye for Jared Sullinger and Deshaun Thomas? Consensus seems to be that yes, they are leaving despite not being ready. I'm not even sure what that means: ready? Have you seen the state of the NBA? Are you telling me Deshaun Thomas and Jared Sullinger, while certainly not being all-stars, couldn't have made considerable contributions to the Toronto Raptors, Charlotte Bobcats and even our own Cleveland Cavaliers? So what does "being ready" mean? To come in to the league and dominate like LeBron did? That's unrealistic. By that standard Anthony Davis isn't "ready". I want these guys back in scarlet and grey as much as the rest of Buckeye Nation. But if they feel entering the draft and getting paid millions, even if it is to be a role player, is what they want then more power to them. Of course, legitimate NBA talent evaluators who spend their afternoons in offices, classrooms and preparing sandwiches will laugh and call them stupid...
Last bit on the Buckeye hoops team, I found this season was a lot of fun. And that term gets thrown around a lot, especially lately, to describe mediocre teams with inferior talent (I'm talking to you Cleveland Indians fan who likes to say "Yeah, but the Tribe is fun to watch!") giving their all despite coming up short. Well this team won. And by fun, I mean it was fun watching them win despite ripping my hair out on several occasions during the Big Ten season. You want to know what's "fun"? Having a great team given little chance to win a season ending road game at Michigan State's Breslin Center, watching them go up there and dual Sparty in a classic that they win at the buzzer. That, my friends, is fun. You know what else is "fun"? Beating Syracuse to go to the Final Four and watching Jim Beoheim make faces like someone took a leak in his coffee and he is being forced to swallow it. That was fun!
So long William Buford. You gave us four years, a rarity in the college basketball world for a player that has your type of potential. Most thought he was a goner after his sophomore year. Good luck young man, we'll miss you!
World Wide Calipari
I'm not going to rant and rag on Kentucky and their what should be vacated national championship. I just have a few simple and honest questions:
How does Calipari pull a crop like that? Which leads to...
Why is World Wide Wes sitting behind the bench as a guest of Calipari? Which leads to...
Why is nobody questioning World Wide Wes sitting behind the bench as a guest of Calipari? You ask why World Wide Wes is a problem, which leads to...
Why is someone who works for an NBA agent, is widely known to be a power player in NBA meeting rooms, the guy who talked LeBron James into leaving his original agent Aaron Goodwin to sign with his boss Leon Rose, on the court hugging Anthony Davis after the national championship game?
So George Dohrmann wants to investigate tattoo's at Ohio State and stalk players at UCLA to tell stories about guys who had bad attitudes and left the program, but World Wide Wes hugging it out with the NCAA player of the year, ON THE COURT, doesn't peak his interest? And I don't mean to bag on Dohrmann exclusively. Where is Dan Wetzel or, God forbid, ESPN? The World Wide Leader even seems unfazed about World Wide Wes and his relationship to the Kentucky program.
Truly amazing. And people wonder why Ohio State fans feel like the media is always out to get their beloved. I'll stand behind this statement until someone can prove different: If World Wide Wes is involved, it isn't on the "up and up". Bank on it.
And maybe the best part of it all is Calipari's complete faith in Wes covering up and making whatever is happening so untraceable that he flaunts their relationship! He gives him tickets to sit behind the bench! Allows him on the court to hug the star player! Almost as if to say "Look at us! So what are you going to do about it?"
Truly amazing.
Radio Girl (it's a Volbeat song, look it up)
Stop complaining about local radio in Cleveland. Stop! If you don't like WKNR and especially Aaron Goldhammer (I personally want to throw up just mentioning their names) then don't listen! And I don't mean that in a righteous, defiant, "I can't hear you" smack talk way, I mean it literally.
Understand how radio works: Clown A, we'll call him "Rizz", gets a show on WRNK in Steubenville. As a professional, it's Rizz's job to go on the air and find what gets a reaction. Maybe acting like a fool and arguing ridiculous points draws the most callers and public talk about his show. Maybe he actually makes a lot of sense and that draws callers to his show and generates buzz. Maybe it's a series of crank calls and flatulence jokes. Whatever it is, whatever generates the buzz, good or bad, is what he will stick with. Notice the key phrase there, good or bad. Because whether you're agreeing with his intelligent points, screaming at the radio because of his smug attitude and unintelligible rambles, or laughing with him as he goes on a wild string of buffoonery, you're listening. And if you're listening, that means the guy is good as a show host, right? No! It means the station can sell advertisements at a higher rate and make WRNK in Stuebenville very rich!
If a program begins to lose ad money, it cannot survive. If you are not listening and talking about the program, they have no leverage when negotiating with sponsors, or sponsors simply say "nobody listens to that show" and pulls their funds. And series of events is how someone like Goldhammer will find himself with his bags packed and on his way to Pawnee for the afternoon drive polka show because it's the only work he can get, faster than you can say "I wanna punch Hammer in the mouth".
Instead, with Goldhammer, he agitates you. Then you rant and rave on Twitter and Facebook and call the show to tell him how much he needs to go. Well guess what? He wins.
Votto-Jeter-Cabrera
I didn't think much of the Reds signing Joey Votto to a ten year deal when I first heard about it. My initial reaction was "good for them" and I moved on with my evening. Then Tony Mazur @TonyMazur had to go and tweet this:
"@TonyMazur The Reds locked Joey Votto up for a decade. The Indians locked Asdrubal Cabrera up until Derek Jeter calls it quits."
And I instantly got upset because Tony is dead on. Nothing more needs to be said. This one statement completely defines the Dolan era as owner of the Cleveland Indians.
By the way, opening day is Thursday.
Finish him!
I hope everyone, despite the outcome, did as I suggested and had a great time watching the Final Four on Saturday night. Being new to Charlotte, I foolishly passed on the opportunity to watch the game with the Charlotte Buckeyes (www.charlottebuckeyes.com) My nerves and ridiculous superstitions kept me at home. And while Peanut and I had a great time yelling at the tv and sipping on Red Hook (thanks Dan Patrick show for bringing this product into my life) and a few Olde Mecklenbug Copper's (local brew that a few coworkers turned me on to) it still would have been more fun to be out with the crowd and cheering with the faithful. I regret it. It won't happen again.
And yes, Radio Girl is a fantastic song that mixes 50's pop with heavy metal by a band you need to take an interest in called Volbeat. Do yourself a favor, cut and paste the link and watch the video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfWXo9gKYJ0
Until next time, SEE YA!
Metallica track of the week:
Creeping Death
With Easter coming this Sunday, how could anything but a story about God not be our track of the week? With lyrics pulled directly from the bible, James Hetfield tells us the story of Passover, right down to the bush of fire! And the song, in my humble opinion, is hands down the best concert opener they do.
Here they are opening the Big Four show in Sofia, Bulgaria with our track of the week! I found a clip that include the "Ecstasy of Gold" classic intro that they've had for some 26 of the 30 years they have been a band. You know me pretty well by now, you know my affinity for sports and love for my teams... nothing, and I mean nothing, beats the moment you are about to see for me. There is no more adrenaline/excitement pumping through me than this moment right here. Sorry, it may be disappointing to you. Can't help it. There is no place in the world I'd rather be!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTMWaxLCpAs
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