On Oct. 1st as the NHL season kicked off it was missing something it hadn't had in 20 years... Joe Sakic suited up for play. While many fans, and even the entire Avs team, donned Joe's 19 sweater he traded his usual game wear for a black suit. The team quite literally rolled out the red carpet for Joe in his retirement ceremony. After all, he had been the face of the franchise since it moved to Colorado in '96.
Joe was always one of my favorite players. Despite him playing for the Canadiens arch rival, the Nordiques, for the first 7 of his 20 seasons I always respected him, and admired his game. When he moved to Denver and later paired with another of my favorite players in Patrick Roy, I finally felt OK to don a jersey other than the Canadiens. That team captured the Stanley Cup in their first year in Denver! Surely it was a team built in Quebec City and no one knew that better than Joe. In fact he made sure to start by thanking the Quebec Nordiques, and their fans.
That's just the kind of guy Joe was. In fact I'm not sure I ever heard him speak much over the years. He was a quiet superstar. He did his talking with his play. He didn't grab unnecessary media attention, or get in to massive trouble. He was a rare "good role model" in an era of disappointing sports superstars. Despite my hatred of Ray Bourque, I'll never forget Joe immediately handing him the Stanley Cup after they won in '01. Trust me if you can make a Canadiens fan show respect for a life-long Bruin... you're really doing something.
To me Joe was always the steady captain. The one guy I always pointed to as my favorite hockey player that wasn't a former University of Vermont alum or a Montreal Canadian. Maybe I have a soft spot for Denver leaders. In fact Joe was the first to declare Denver a "City of Champions." One year before my other favorite Denver leader could airplane spin his way to a Super Bowl victory. Maybe Joe and the Avs helped pave the way. Maybe it's just an awesome coincidence. But either way it's gotten me to thinking about how much I love about a place I've never been.
So as I watched the ceremony for Joe, a tear came to my eye. He's always seemed to be in the league, and as his age as forced him from the game it's also made me realize my childhood sports heros are all gone. They've made way to new generations. The circle of life on a sports level. For Joe and 20 seasons it was the circle of perfection.
If I ever put together a dream team, Joe and Guy Carbonneau will be co-captains. So for his contribution to Denver, the hockey landscape, and my own personal love of the coolest game on ice I say.... Thank you Joe!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
Pich's helpful guide to Baseball stadium visiting
While I was sitting in the Metrodome I started to put this idea together. Here's a quick run down of my stadium visits:
Montreal - Olympic Stadium (Multiple times)
Boston - Fenway Park (3 times)
Baltimore - Camden Yards (once)
Washington D.C. - RFK Stadium (once)
New York City - Old Yankee Stadium (once)
Milwaukee - Miller Park (Multiple times)
Chicago - Wrigley Field (once)
Cleveland - Progressive Field (once)
Minneapolis - Hubert H Humphrey Metrodome (once)
Ok, so with that out of the way let me give you my tips to enjoying a game in a fun an affordable way. Note: These are tips really more suited to first time visits to stadiums and parks. However most can be implemented at anytime.
* Plan your game - Pick a day that they are giving something away. It's always good to get a souvenir for free no matter what it is. However remember that awesome giveaways such as bobble-head days attract sellouts so get your tickets early. Also remember to pick a game that works for you. Try to see your favorite team, a superstar player, or a team you haven't seen before. Also maybe you can catch multiple games or even multiple teams while in a certain area. Worried about a crowd? Try an afternoon weekday game... rarely sold out.
* Tickets - Always make sure you're getting your tickets from a trusted source. Scalpers are usually reliable if they are in plain view of the stadium, but it's better to order your own online. The new trend of printing your tickets sucks. It's a piece of printer paper. Not the ticket/memento that you really want. Just pay the $3 and have them mailed to you or save altogether and pick them up at will call. In lesser attended cases you can show up on game day and simply get one from the window. Most tickets have a player on them or something now which is a nice display item... I personally have a huge ticket collection book.
* Always Drive In - Some places have buses, subways, or trains, but to get that full experience you should drive in the first time. In new cities it gives you a further chance to explore after the game. Their will be some costs for parking but you can usually find a lot for about $10 which isn't too bad. After you've "been there, done that" it's definitely better to save the dough and jump on a shuttle, or train.
* Take a lap - Get there early and experience the stadium. See what there is to see, or even get that picture you can't get from your seat. Some places have batting practice that you can see, others have memorials or museums. Take a walk around then get your grub and stuff and prepare for the game.
* The Stuff - So you've picked a day and you have your free giveaway item, but what now? You should always save money in your budget for one medium-ticket item. A t-shirt is my favorite, but anything like a hat or foam finger if you desire is cool too. At Yankee Stadium I went with a hat and in Cleveland I went T-shirt. Whatever you get, make sure you'll be happy to wear, or display it.
* Score it up! - I've gotten in to the habit of scoring the games. Especially if I go alone. Most places have scorecards right when you come in for sale. They aren't usually expensive and it's another memento of the game. Also it helps you to keep track of what's going on. It's tough to do in less modern stadiums with poor big screens and such but it's fun. Also you can inform those around you when debates come up. Never bring your own pencils. Most places will give you a pencil when you buy the scorecard. Some places actually make you pay but they are cheap, effective, and another memento. I always get two in case of lead breakage.
* The Grub - I've never been big on eating too much at the park. The prices are really high and usually the food is average at best. However there are always a few unique items to each stadium that should be tried. Baltimore has crab cakes, and Minnesota has mini-donuts? I always get a hot dog or brat at a new stadium. It's a simple item but it tells you a lot about the place. The effort made in this area shows the effort usually shown elsewhere. If it's so simple... do it right! I've found that a good hot dog or brat = a good stadium. Also I always order the large soda which means... souvenir soda cup! I have a good collection going and have even found that certain stadiums offer metal beer bottles with team logos. If you're going to drink anyway, might as well grab another memento right? Also some stadiums offer food in mini-helmets which is brilliant. My personal favorite is the waffle cheese fries at Miller Park in a Brewers helmet.
* Picture it up - Afraid of looking like a tourist? Guess what... you are! So freakin what? Go bananas. Get shots of anything and everything. Even some stuff you just might want to look at longer later. I try to get shots of scoreboards, crazy fans, or notable banners, but whatever floats your boat.
* Cheer for the home team - If your team isn't involved in the contest root for the home team. This is hard to do for some. I have gone in to hated teams parks such as Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park while donning their lid and clapping when their team scored. In some cases I'm not proud of it, but it's part of the experience. It makes the other fans feel at ease and leads to...
* Chat up the locals - There's nothing better than trading quips, or information with your seat mates. It adds to the atmosphere and helps blowouts stay interesting. This is another part where scoring is cool because you can drop facts like... "The A's have had the lead man on 7 out 9 innings tonight." Basically you get to be the color man for your area.
* Keep your head on a swivel - Not only do you have to watch the action on the field, but also off. Fan watching is awesome on many levels. Hotties, little kids enjoying the game, interesting people. There's something for everyone. I also take note of the vendors walking around. Are they happy to be there? What's that usher doing? Why does that guy have a Red Sox hat on at a Cubs-Braves game? There is lots to see, so see it. It also makes watching games from these stadiums more interesting in the future on TV.
* Just do it - If you can't get people to go with you, just go anyway. If you can, you should. Life is short so if you want to do something and can... really CAN, then you should. You owe it to yourself and your love of the game.
Well that's it. I'm pretty please with my guide. I hope it helps you the next time you get to a stadium. The same basic rules should apply to most sports and at any level. I'll continue to shape the guide if needed and will probably add this to my site in the future. Comments are welcomed if you feel I missed something.
Montreal - Olympic Stadium (Multiple times)
Boston - Fenway Park (3 times)
Baltimore - Camden Yards (once)
Washington D.C. - RFK Stadium (once)
New York City - Old Yankee Stadium (once)
Milwaukee - Miller Park (Multiple times)
Chicago - Wrigley Field (once)
Cleveland - Progressive Field (once)
Minneapolis - Hubert H Humphrey Metrodome (once)
Ok, so with that out of the way let me give you my tips to enjoying a game in a fun an affordable way. Note: These are tips really more suited to first time visits to stadiums and parks. However most can be implemented at anytime.
* Plan your game - Pick a day that they are giving something away. It's always good to get a souvenir for free no matter what it is. However remember that awesome giveaways such as bobble-head days attract sellouts so get your tickets early. Also remember to pick a game that works for you. Try to see your favorite team, a superstar player, or a team you haven't seen before. Also maybe you can catch multiple games or even multiple teams while in a certain area. Worried about a crowd? Try an afternoon weekday game... rarely sold out.
* Tickets - Always make sure you're getting your tickets from a trusted source. Scalpers are usually reliable if they are in plain view of the stadium, but it's better to order your own online. The new trend of printing your tickets sucks. It's a piece of printer paper. Not the ticket/memento that you really want. Just pay the $3 and have them mailed to you or save altogether and pick them up at will call. In lesser attended cases you can show up on game day and simply get one from the window. Most tickets have a player on them or something now which is a nice display item... I personally have a huge ticket collection book.
* Always Drive In - Some places have buses, subways, or trains, but to get that full experience you should drive in the first time. In new cities it gives you a further chance to explore after the game. Their will be some costs for parking but you can usually find a lot for about $10 which isn't too bad. After you've "been there, done that" it's definitely better to save the dough and jump on a shuttle, or train.
* Take a lap - Get there early and experience the stadium. See what there is to see, or even get that picture you can't get from your seat. Some places have batting practice that you can see, others have memorials or museums. Take a walk around then get your grub and stuff and prepare for the game.
* The Stuff - So you've picked a day and you have your free giveaway item, but what now? You should always save money in your budget for one medium-ticket item. A t-shirt is my favorite, but anything like a hat or foam finger if you desire is cool too. At Yankee Stadium I went with a hat and in Cleveland I went T-shirt. Whatever you get, make sure you'll be happy to wear, or display it.
* Score it up! - I've gotten in to the habit of scoring the games. Especially if I go alone. Most places have scorecards right when you come in for sale. They aren't usually expensive and it's another memento of the game. Also it helps you to keep track of what's going on. It's tough to do in less modern stadiums with poor big screens and such but it's fun. Also you can inform those around you when debates come up. Never bring your own pencils. Most places will give you a pencil when you buy the scorecard. Some places actually make you pay but they are cheap, effective, and another memento. I always get two in case of lead breakage.
* The Grub - I've never been big on eating too much at the park. The prices are really high and usually the food is average at best. However there are always a few unique items to each stadium that should be tried. Baltimore has crab cakes, and Minnesota has mini-donuts? I always get a hot dog or brat at a new stadium. It's a simple item but it tells you a lot about the place. The effort made in this area shows the effort usually shown elsewhere. If it's so simple... do it right! I've found that a good hot dog or brat = a good stadium. Also I always order the large soda which means... souvenir soda cup! I have a good collection going and have even found that certain stadiums offer metal beer bottles with team logos. If you're going to drink anyway, might as well grab another memento right? Also some stadiums offer food in mini-helmets which is brilliant. My personal favorite is the waffle cheese fries at Miller Park in a Brewers helmet.
* Picture it up - Afraid of looking like a tourist? Guess what... you are! So freakin what? Go bananas. Get shots of anything and everything. Even some stuff you just might want to look at longer later. I try to get shots of scoreboards, crazy fans, or notable banners, but whatever floats your boat.
* Cheer for the home team - If your team isn't involved in the contest root for the home team. This is hard to do for some. I have gone in to hated teams parks such as Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park while donning their lid and clapping when their team scored. In some cases I'm not proud of it, but it's part of the experience. It makes the other fans feel at ease and leads to...
* Chat up the locals - There's nothing better than trading quips, or information with your seat mates. It adds to the atmosphere and helps blowouts stay interesting. This is another part where scoring is cool because you can drop facts like... "The A's have had the lead man on 7 out 9 innings tonight." Basically you get to be the color man for your area.
* Keep your head on a swivel - Not only do you have to watch the action on the field, but also off. Fan watching is awesome on many levels. Hotties, little kids enjoying the game, interesting people. There's something for everyone. I also take note of the vendors walking around. Are they happy to be there? What's that usher doing? Why does that guy have a Red Sox hat on at a Cubs-Braves game? There is lots to see, so see it. It also makes watching games from these stadiums more interesting in the future on TV.
* Just do it - If you can't get people to go with you, just go anyway. If you can, you should. Life is short so if you want to do something and can... really CAN, then you should. You owe it to yourself and your love of the game.
Well that's it. I'm pretty please with my guide. I hope it helps you the next time you get to a stadium. The same basic rules should apply to most sports and at any level. I'll continue to shape the guide if needed and will probably add this to my site in the future. Comments are welcomed if you feel I missed something.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
2009 NFL Preview, Predictions & Rant
Greetings! I must admit I've been lacking on the sports blogging. However I am proud to announce that my Talking Trash blog will remain open to the public unlike my personal blog. I hope to continue this sports blog more frequently as the busy season for sports approaches.
Business aside I have a lot to get off my chest about my beloved Denver Broncos. First off let me just tell you that for every year since I've been alive and a fan I've expected the Broncos to have a playoff caliber team, and for the most part they've delivered. I've never been embarrassed to be a Denver Broncos fan due to their above average to average play for many seasons.
I am still a Broncos fan. I have to say that because what I'm about to say might make you think otherwise. I hope the Broncos win only 4 games this year. Despite being one of the guys calling for a fresh face at head coach at the conclusion of last year's end-of-season debacle, I didn't expect to also have a fresh face a quarterback. I bought the Cutler jersey last year expecting the Pro Bowler to remain a Bronco slinging passes for years. Then came in Billichek Jr. and he messed it all up. Why would you bother to try and trade for a quarterback when you have a Pro Bowl caliber one already? People might think Jay Cutler was being a baby, but I see his point to a certain degree. Why was this new kid on the block coming in and upsetting the captain in his first weeks as head coach?
Still I've tried, unsuccessfully to come to terms with the Cutler deal. The draft pick is nice. The Orton is not. Basically what happened is we swapped a Pro Bowler for a toilet bowler. Madden has them ranked as Cutler 88 overall and Orton as 73. That's about right. With injury factory, Chris Simms labeled as the backup and an unknown Tom Brandstater as the 3rd QB I've been waiting everyday for the Broncos to make a trade for an actual quarterback. Still waiting.... I have liked what I've seen from Brandstater and even went as far as to declare him my starting quarterback on the Madden video game... however Tom weighs in at a whopping 60 overall so he's a work in progress. Luckily the Vikings offered me Favre for Orton straight up so despite my dislike for him I had to make the deal to acquire a quarterback who could throw a pass farther than 17 yards. I hate to change my team on the game. I usually like to run with my team, but this year I had ALOT of work to do before i could compete.
Basically what I'm saying here is that for the first time in years I don't expect the Broncos to even finish the season .500 which is sad. I'm not excited to watch this baby-faced Billichek wannabe try to be successful at the expense of my team. I've wanted him to get fired so badly I even tried setting up a blog as Josh McDaniels so I could write things that would be labeled "cybersmear," thus costing him his job. (Not really)
Brandon Marshall wants out, Orton and Simms are injured. There are a number of capable running backs but with everyone learning a new system led by ????? it should be a long year. Thank God they worked to fix the awful defense by adding Brian Dawkins and a host of others. If this team is going to have any success this year it might ironically come from the side of the ball that kept the Broncos out of the playoffs last year. I mean if they would have won one of their last 3 games they were in the playoffs... then am I writing such a blog? So much changed in a knee jerk reaction that makes me wish Shanny was still with the Broncos. Hopefully he can return next year after McDaniels is fired!
Briefly now let me swing my focus to my other squad, The Buffalo Bills. They acquired Terrill Owens and I'm actually feeling like he's ready to make the Bills a winner on and off the field. By the way he pair with Lee Evans to give the Bills the best 1-2 combo in the league... yeah I said it. If Marshawn Lynch can't figure his crap out I feel Fred Jackson can fill the void. Trent Edwards is ready to either break out or bust and I lean towards break out because with his receiving core I think Trent Dilfer could make a Pro Bowl worthy comeback. The defense has lots of young talent and if they stay healthy should be one of the leagues best. Therefore I've switched my usual preseason hopes for the playoffs to the Bills. Their time is near.
Now I'm going to run through each division and give you the skinny on each followed at the end by my playoff teams, and then playoff predictions.
AFC EAST
I just made it no secret that I expect the Bills to be playoff contenders. However they won't win the division. Sadly the Patriots have back the system leader Tom Brady so that should be good enough to take the division. Their defense is questionable and they are a few injuries away from being where they should be... the bottom of the toughest division in football. The Jets have a nice foundation for future success but they are a year away from a breakout season. The Dolphins will slip back to the bottom but don't look for them to be pushovers. Last place might finish 7-9 here.
AFC NORTH
Can you believe the Steelers won the Super Bowl last year? I always have to remind myself. That team was not that good. However in a division with only one other legit team they should still be good enough to win it. The Ravens will nip at their heels though and should easily secure second place. The Bengals seem to be healthier this year and if they stay that way 3rd is about as high as they can hope for. The Browns almost always refuse to better their roster and I don't expect Mangini to have this team turned around until next year.
AFC SOUTH
The Colts reign over the division ended last year but I expect them to be back on top this year with the Titans right behind them. The Jaguars seldom make an effort to get better and might come in last because the Texans defense is nice. However the Texans offense is dependent on injuryfest chairman, Matt Schaub. Either way if it's not Colts or Titans here don't worry about 'em.
AFC SOUTH
Obviously this will be the first season I don't take the Broncos, and I like everyone else will take the Chargers to win it. Too much talent not to, although they tried last year. However it wouldn't shock me if they choked their way our of the playoffs. That said the rest of the division is full of teams that are two years away. The Chiefs and Broncos have new coaches, quarterbacks, and systems while the Raiders are after all the Raiders. Smart money says Chiefs for second and I do have enough confidence in the talent left in Denver to get to 7-9 and a second place finish... but they won't. Chiefs 2nd Broncos 3rd.
NFC EAST
I started in the AFC because it's the only conference that matters. However if one division in the NFC spurs hope it's the East. You could make a case for all of the teams to make the playoffs with the Redskins being the only stretch, however the defense is nice. I like the Giants to win it but it will come down to the final weeks with the Cowboys and the Eagles. The Eagles will falter enough during the season that will make it hard for them to comeback from so they'll finish third, but still sniff a playoff birth. The Cowboys will have a nice season in the new stadium but probably won't be looking at any home games.
NFC NORTH
The heartbeat of my new home area beats loud for the division, and it's much improved from last season. The Bears and Vikings finally got legit quarterbacks and if they put together their offense to go with solid defenses this one could be a dog fight. The Packers look good too, but their defense is overrated. I fear this division will beat up on itself so much that they might only get one team in the playoffs, but that guarantee belongs to the Bears. They finally have a quarterback and he has something to prove. Couple that with a great D and good running game to make them the class even above everyone else's favorite Vikings. That said the Vikings should outlast the Packers for second place much to the chagrin of Packer nation. I'm not forgetting to mention a team am I? Much improved from 0-16 could still mean 2-14. Sorry Lions... nice new unis though!
NFC SOUTH
The Falcons went from a team on the mend to legit last year and they'll be making more noise this year as division champs. The Panthers will finish due to their defense, while the Saints will finish third due to an awesome passing attack. That leaves the Buccaneers in last because they seem to also try to find ways to get worse. I don't even know who their starting quarterback is for crying out loud.
NFC WEST
So the Cardinals went to the Super Bowl last year eh? While everyone was busy crowning them as this year's walk away winner in the West they forget to see the improvements made in Seattle. I think the pressure of being the hunted rather than the hunter will pressure the Cardinals in to a second place finish as long as Seattle stays healthy. The Rams are going to have all sorts of problems as will the 49ers but if injuries to plague the front runners either of these two squads might muster up enough to get to at least 2nd. I'd lean Niners before I leaned Rams though, because they have 100% more Frank Gore than the rest of the league.
PLAYOFFS
AFC Divison Winners: Steelers, Colts, Patriots, Chargers
Wild Cards: Ravens, Bills
Picking the Bills is a little of a "heart" pick but it's either them or the Titans. I'd like to see the Ravens and Colts in the AFC Championship game, but seeing as a team I hate is usually in the mix that late it will have to include the Steelers or Patriots. Let's not kid ourselves America. The San Diego Chargers are the biggest choke artists in modern football. How many years have you been picking them now? How many years have they made the Super Bowl even? Got that number? Yeah well don't bother on them again. I'll take the Patriots and Ravens in the AFC Championship and as much as it pains me to say... I see the Patriots winning. They always seem to find a way and they are hungry ever since the loss to the Giants.
NFC Division Winners: Bears, Falcons, Giants, Seahawks
Wild Cards: Vikings, Cowboys
Yup no Cardinals. One and done they were. They did finish 9-7 after all then just got hot at the right time. Look for more of that in this years version of the NFC playoffs. I'm not sure how it will all shake out but I like the Giants and the Bears in the NFC Championship game. People will be excited at the chance of a Super Bowl rematch but instead they'll get a hot headed alleged "cry-baby" leading his team to the Super Bowl.
Bears Vs. Patriots.... I hope the Bears could find away to win and right now I'd have to pick them... but the Patriots game planning would probably get in Jay Cutler's head faster than a trade rumor and cause him to break Elway's interception record in the first half. Smart money would go Patriots even though it makes me sick... I'm going to go puke now.... pray that I'm wrong America... pray
Business aside I have a lot to get off my chest about my beloved Denver Broncos. First off let me just tell you that for every year since I've been alive and a fan I've expected the Broncos to have a playoff caliber team, and for the most part they've delivered. I've never been embarrassed to be a Denver Broncos fan due to their above average to average play for many seasons.
I am still a Broncos fan. I have to say that because what I'm about to say might make you think otherwise. I hope the Broncos win only 4 games this year. Despite being one of the guys calling for a fresh face at head coach at the conclusion of last year's end-of-season debacle, I didn't expect to also have a fresh face a quarterback. I bought the Cutler jersey last year expecting the Pro Bowler to remain a Bronco slinging passes for years. Then came in Billichek Jr. and he messed it all up. Why would you bother to try and trade for a quarterback when you have a Pro Bowl caliber one already? People might think Jay Cutler was being a baby, but I see his point to a certain degree. Why was this new kid on the block coming in and upsetting the captain in his first weeks as head coach?
Still I've tried, unsuccessfully to come to terms with the Cutler deal. The draft pick is nice. The Orton is not. Basically what happened is we swapped a Pro Bowler for a toilet bowler. Madden has them ranked as Cutler 88 overall and Orton as 73. That's about right. With injury factory, Chris Simms labeled as the backup and an unknown Tom Brandstater as the 3rd QB I've been waiting everyday for the Broncos to make a trade for an actual quarterback. Still waiting.... I have liked what I've seen from Brandstater and even went as far as to declare him my starting quarterback on the Madden video game... however Tom weighs in at a whopping 60 overall so he's a work in progress. Luckily the Vikings offered me Favre for Orton straight up so despite my dislike for him I had to make the deal to acquire a quarterback who could throw a pass farther than 17 yards. I hate to change my team on the game. I usually like to run with my team, but this year I had ALOT of work to do before i could compete.
Basically what I'm saying here is that for the first time in years I don't expect the Broncos to even finish the season .500 which is sad. I'm not excited to watch this baby-faced Billichek wannabe try to be successful at the expense of my team. I've wanted him to get fired so badly I even tried setting up a blog as Josh McDaniels so I could write things that would be labeled "cybersmear," thus costing him his job. (Not really)
Brandon Marshall wants out, Orton and Simms are injured. There are a number of capable running backs but with everyone learning a new system led by ????? it should be a long year. Thank God they worked to fix the awful defense by adding Brian Dawkins and a host of others. If this team is going to have any success this year it might ironically come from the side of the ball that kept the Broncos out of the playoffs last year. I mean if they would have won one of their last 3 games they were in the playoffs... then am I writing such a blog? So much changed in a knee jerk reaction that makes me wish Shanny was still with the Broncos. Hopefully he can return next year after McDaniels is fired!
Briefly now let me swing my focus to my other squad, The Buffalo Bills. They acquired Terrill Owens and I'm actually feeling like he's ready to make the Bills a winner on and off the field. By the way he pair with Lee Evans to give the Bills the best 1-2 combo in the league... yeah I said it. If Marshawn Lynch can't figure his crap out I feel Fred Jackson can fill the void. Trent Edwards is ready to either break out or bust and I lean towards break out because with his receiving core I think Trent Dilfer could make a Pro Bowl worthy comeback. The defense has lots of young talent and if they stay healthy should be one of the leagues best. Therefore I've switched my usual preseason hopes for the playoffs to the Bills. Their time is near.
Now I'm going to run through each division and give you the skinny on each followed at the end by my playoff teams, and then playoff predictions.
AFC EAST
I just made it no secret that I expect the Bills to be playoff contenders. However they won't win the division. Sadly the Patriots have back the system leader Tom Brady so that should be good enough to take the division. Their defense is questionable and they are a few injuries away from being where they should be... the bottom of the toughest division in football. The Jets have a nice foundation for future success but they are a year away from a breakout season. The Dolphins will slip back to the bottom but don't look for them to be pushovers. Last place might finish 7-9 here.
AFC NORTH
Can you believe the Steelers won the Super Bowl last year? I always have to remind myself. That team was not that good. However in a division with only one other legit team they should still be good enough to win it. The Ravens will nip at their heels though and should easily secure second place. The Bengals seem to be healthier this year and if they stay that way 3rd is about as high as they can hope for. The Browns almost always refuse to better their roster and I don't expect Mangini to have this team turned around until next year.
AFC SOUTH
The Colts reign over the division ended last year but I expect them to be back on top this year with the Titans right behind them. The Jaguars seldom make an effort to get better and might come in last because the Texans defense is nice. However the Texans offense is dependent on injuryfest chairman, Matt Schaub. Either way if it's not Colts or Titans here don't worry about 'em.
AFC SOUTH
Obviously this will be the first season I don't take the Broncos, and I like everyone else will take the Chargers to win it. Too much talent not to, although they tried last year. However it wouldn't shock me if they choked their way our of the playoffs. That said the rest of the division is full of teams that are two years away. The Chiefs and Broncos have new coaches, quarterbacks, and systems while the Raiders are after all the Raiders. Smart money says Chiefs for second and I do have enough confidence in the talent left in Denver to get to 7-9 and a second place finish... but they won't. Chiefs 2nd Broncos 3rd.
NFC EAST
I started in the AFC because it's the only conference that matters. However if one division in the NFC spurs hope it's the East. You could make a case for all of the teams to make the playoffs with the Redskins being the only stretch, however the defense is nice. I like the Giants to win it but it will come down to the final weeks with the Cowboys and the Eagles. The Eagles will falter enough during the season that will make it hard for them to comeback from so they'll finish third, but still sniff a playoff birth. The Cowboys will have a nice season in the new stadium but probably won't be looking at any home games.
NFC NORTH
The heartbeat of my new home area beats loud for the division, and it's much improved from last season. The Bears and Vikings finally got legit quarterbacks and if they put together their offense to go with solid defenses this one could be a dog fight. The Packers look good too, but their defense is overrated. I fear this division will beat up on itself so much that they might only get one team in the playoffs, but that guarantee belongs to the Bears. They finally have a quarterback and he has something to prove. Couple that with a great D and good running game to make them the class even above everyone else's favorite Vikings. That said the Vikings should outlast the Packers for second place much to the chagrin of Packer nation. I'm not forgetting to mention a team am I? Much improved from 0-16 could still mean 2-14. Sorry Lions... nice new unis though!
NFC SOUTH
The Falcons went from a team on the mend to legit last year and they'll be making more noise this year as division champs. The Panthers will finish due to their defense, while the Saints will finish third due to an awesome passing attack. That leaves the Buccaneers in last because they seem to also try to find ways to get worse. I don't even know who their starting quarterback is for crying out loud.
NFC WEST
So the Cardinals went to the Super Bowl last year eh? While everyone was busy crowning them as this year's walk away winner in the West they forget to see the improvements made in Seattle. I think the pressure of being the hunted rather than the hunter will pressure the Cardinals in to a second place finish as long as Seattle stays healthy. The Rams are going to have all sorts of problems as will the 49ers but if injuries to plague the front runners either of these two squads might muster up enough to get to at least 2nd. I'd lean Niners before I leaned Rams though, because they have 100% more Frank Gore than the rest of the league.
PLAYOFFS
AFC Divison Winners: Steelers, Colts, Patriots, Chargers
Wild Cards: Ravens, Bills
Picking the Bills is a little of a "heart" pick but it's either them or the Titans. I'd like to see the Ravens and Colts in the AFC Championship game, but seeing as a team I hate is usually in the mix that late it will have to include the Steelers or Patriots. Let's not kid ourselves America. The San Diego Chargers are the biggest choke artists in modern football. How many years have you been picking them now? How many years have they made the Super Bowl even? Got that number? Yeah well don't bother on them again. I'll take the Patriots and Ravens in the AFC Championship and as much as it pains me to say... I see the Patriots winning. They always seem to find a way and they are hungry ever since the loss to the Giants.
NFC Division Winners: Bears, Falcons, Giants, Seahawks
Wild Cards: Vikings, Cowboys
Yup no Cardinals. One and done they were. They did finish 9-7 after all then just got hot at the right time. Look for more of that in this years version of the NFC playoffs. I'm not sure how it will all shake out but I like the Giants and the Bears in the NFC Championship game. People will be excited at the chance of a Super Bowl rematch but instead they'll get a hot headed alleged "cry-baby" leading his team to the Super Bowl.
Bears Vs. Patriots.... I hope the Bears could find away to win and right now I'd have to pick them... but the Patriots game planning would probably get in Jay Cutler's head faster than a trade rumor and cause him to break Elway's interception record in the first half. Smart money would go Patriots even though it makes me sick... I'm going to go puke now.... pray that I'm wrong America... pray
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Busting the Talking Trash Blog Hymen!
On May 14th, 2008 the hit cable access show "Talking Trash - The Sports Talk Show" had the last of it's 109 episodes.
Since then I've been busy getting my life together and moving on... literally to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I took a job at the Bradley Center and began work there 6 months ago. Obviously working there I've been seeing some good sports stuff. Finally after the Brewers playoff run, almost every Bucks home game, and watching the Big East conference via Marquette I've boiled over.
Well that plus the Orlando Magic are the bomb, The Broncos will have a new head coach, and what is up with the black jerseys UVM? Let's just say that there are more than a few things in sports to say and I need to say them.
So here goes... let's see if it's like riding a bike...
Howdy all! Welcome to Talking Trash Blog-Style. It's been a long time coming but let's dig in.
First off I have to speak on my new home in Milwaukee. There are some pretty serious sports fans out here. They treat the Packers like GODS. The entire state rarely plans anything opposite a Packer game, and after taking in a regular season game there myself this year I can tell you... you don't mess with the Packers fans and their Packers. It was an honor to be in legendary Lambeau Field and I rooted for the Pack who lost on a last second kick. The Brewers made the playoffs for the first time in 27 years and being apart of that was awesome. I was there for the final game of the season when they clinched and at the first playoff game they hosted. I must admit I'm a huge Brewers fan now. As far as the Bradley Center goes I've seen some good basketball, but also some great hockey. The Admirals are one of the top teams in the AHL right now. They are the affiliate of the Nashville Predators and while I'm thinking of it the Nashville Sound is the affiliate of the Brewers... what's up with that? Sister cities much?
Getting back to the hoops I'll open with words on the NBA. First I'll mention how nice it is to live in an NBA city. People here pay attention to it which is awesome. In Vermont I often felt like the only person in the room who knew who won the Blazers/Clippers game last night. It's easier to love "the association" with every NBA team rolling in to your workplace. So far this year my highlights were exchanging pleasantries with Shaq and Grant Hill, running spotlights for player intros from the catwalk, cursing the Celtics (under my breath) as they passed me in the hallway, and watching players get screened for the airport right on our loading dock. Also the Bucks aren't as bad as they used to be. They still aren't a top 10 NBA team, but they are playing well at home, and are currently 8th in the Eastern Conference. It could work out nicely if things continue to come up roses for my Orlando Magic. They just swept everyones darlings, the Lakers, and have the second best record overall in the NBA. I smell a Bucks/Magic first round series, and it smells good.
I have to address quickly that I remain a Magic fan first and foremost. After that it's all Bucks. The Magic don't visit the Bradley Center until mid-March and I'm unsure how I'll handle that day. Maybe I can get it off and watch the game because I couldn't wear a Bucks hat that day... but I digress.
Lastly on the NBA I have to mention how maddening it is to hear about where LeBron is going in 2010. It's still the 08-09 season last time I checked and his team is atop the NBA and undefeated at home. Talk about how good he and they are now, and let the chips fall where they may later. Plus no matter how good he's been in the regular season he has yet to lead his team to an NBA Finals win in even one game yet. Let's not crown him "king" until he's held the crown. No matter how good a regular season they have I never consider the Cavs a legit threat to win the East due to there choke factor in the playoffs and lack of solid players around LeBron. Mo Williams, and Delonte West are not the answers and when LeBron starts throwing up bricks in the playoffs I doubt Daniel Gibson will be dusting off his game again to lead them to the promise land. Wally, Big Z, and Anderson Varja-fro are not the inside players that champs are made of. I know it, you know it and the American people know it. Why don't the Cavs? If this is what they give LeBron for support then I guess I do know why people are talking about where he goes in 2010.
Turning to college hoops I must mention how cool it is to work in a Big East building. Ranked teams all the time and Marquette themselves are #14 right now! It's no America East and that's no slight on them, but... well let's just stick with "it's no America East." Speaking of I got to watch Vermont/Boston University the other day and I enjoyed seeing my guys out there. It was a much needed comeback win but I hated the new black jerseys. It sort of worked as an alternate for hockey, but not basketball. Hey UVM..... paying attention? UVM school colors: Green and Gold.... See what's not there? Yeah, black. White is always an acceptable mix and black can be used in accent form but a full black uniform gives the impression to folks not in-the-know that black is one of your school colors. represent your school colors proudly and get the names off the backs of the jerseys. UVM has always played for the name on the front, not the back. Why change that now?
NFL... I have to chime in on the Broncos head coaching situation because as an avid fan I'm asked about it a lot. The day their season ended I called for Mike Shanahan's head. Days later I got what I asked for. I was probably one of the few not shocked, but rather relieved. Shanny was awesome for Denver, but lately his ways have gotten stale. Teams have figured out his schemes and the Broncos needed something new while they still have a potent young offense. I'm not really sold on the new hire, Josh McDaniels, yet, but after I see him wearing Broncos gear a little more than the "tiny Elvis" head that he used to wear with the "oh we went 11 and 5 but didn't make the playoffs...too bad." Patriots. How bad must they feel looking at the Cardinals whom they crushed? Awesome.
What about them Cardinals, huh? Nice run, but I think it's over. They don't have a lot of big game players and I feel that they will be tight at home. The Eagles seem to be destined for the Bowl and I'd take them to win. Over in the AFC obviously I'm rooting for the Ravens. I don't care to get in to why right now but I've always hated the Steelers. If they make the Super Bowl it might be unwatchable. I hope that the "you can't beat a good team 3 times in one season" theory holds true, but I don't think it will. I'll take the Steelers. Thus setting up the Pennsylvania Bowl. Sadly I feel the Steelers Defense might be too much for the Eagles and sadly they are my pick to win right now. Anything else would be acceptable, but surely we'll get the Steelers because the NFL hates me.
It was good to see Oklahoma lose in the BCS championship game. However my national champion is Utah. That's the way it should be anyway when you don't lose a game all year. Years like this reiterate the point that a playoff is needed.
People here in Wisconsin actually pay attention to college football unlike Vermont. Having a Big Ten power in Wisconsin is reason enough I guess. It's sort of my new "Vermont NASCAR" in that I feel like I have to pay attention to know what my friends and colleagues are talking about. Better football than racing I guess, but we all just heard why I hate college football. C'est la vie.
I really hate that Tim Thomas is a Bruin. They, and he, are having a nice season but as a Canadiens fan I'm bred for hatred of all things Bruins. Damn you Tim... demand a trade so I can root for you. Also good to see that former Vermont captain, Jamie Siefers is doing well since being called up to the Maple Leafs this year, but again... Habs/Leafs big feud.
How hot is Sportscenter LIVE every morning? It's Hannah Storm hot! Not only is the sports reporting worth keeping your morning wood, but Hannah storming into your living room wakes you up with a smile too. Thanks ESPN. Feel free to sprinkle a little Erin Andrews or add a dash of Rachel Nichols just for taste. If I haven't put in my contacts yet you could sneak a Wendy Nix in to the mix as well.
Alright well that's all the time I have for now. Remember to check back for more and if you have something you want me to address in sports, have a comment, or have a question of any sports kind send it to: jason.piche@uvm.edu attn:Talking Trash Blog
Thanks for coming!!
*sings Eagles fight song while flapping wings
Since then I've been busy getting my life together and moving on... literally to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I took a job at the Bradley Center and began work there 6 months ago. Obviously working there I've been seeing some good sports stuff. Finally after the Brewers playoff run, almost every Bucks home game, and watching the Big East conference via Marquette I've boiled over.
Well that plus the Orlando Magic are the bomb, The Broncos will have a new head coach, and what is up with the black jerseys UVM? Let's just say that there are more than a few things in sports to say and I need to say them.
So here goes... let's see if it's like riding a bike...
Howdy all! Welcome to Talking Trash Blog-Style. It's been a long time coming but let's dig in.
First off I have to speak on my new home in Milwaukee. There are some pretty serious sports fans out here. They treat the Packers like GODS. The entire state rarely plans anything opposite a Packer game, and after taking in a regular season game there myself this year I can tell you... you don't mess with the Packers fans and their Packers. It was an honor to be in legendary Lambeau Field and I rooted for the Pack who lost on a last second kick. The Brewers made the playoffs for the first time in 27 years and being apart of that was awesome. I was there for the final game of the season when they clinched and at the first playoff game they hosted. I must admit I'm a huge Brewers fan now. As far as the Bradley Center goes I've seen some good basketball, but also some great hockey. The Admirals are one of the top teams in the AHL right now. They are the affiliate of the Nashville Predators and while I'm thinking of it the Nashville Sound is the affiliate of the Brewers... what's up with that? Sister cities much?
Getting back to the hoops I'll open with words on the NBA. First I'll mention how nice it is to live in an NBA city. People here pay attention to it which is awesome. In Vermont I often felt like the only person in the room who knew who won the Blazers/Clippers game last night. It's easier to love "the association" with every NBA team rolling in to your workplace. So far this year my highlights were exchanging pleasantries with Shaq and Grant Hill, running spotlights for player intros from the catwalk, cursing the Celtics (under my breath) as they passed me in the hallway, and watching players get screened for the airport right on our loading dock. Also the Bucks aren't as bad as they used to be. They still aren't a top 10 NBA team, but they are playing well at home, and are currently 8th in the Eastern Conference. It could work out nicely if things continue to come up roses for my Orlando Magic. They just swept everyones darlings, the Lakers, and have the second best record overall in the NBA. I smell a Bucks/Magic first round series, and it smells good.
I have to address quickly that I remain a Magic fan first and foremost. After that it's all Bucks. The Magic don't visit the Bradley Center until mid-March and I'm unsure how I'll handle that day. Maybe I can get it off and watch the game because I couldn't wear a Bucks hat that day... but I digress.
Lastly on the NBA I have to mention how maddening it is to hear about where LeBron is going in 2010. It's still the 08-09 season last time I checked and his team is atop the NBA and undefeated at home. Talk about how good he and they are now, and let the chips fall where they may later. Plus no matter how good he's been in the regular season he has yet to lead his team to an NBA Finals win in even one game yet. Let's not crown him "king" until he's held the crown. No matter how good a regular season they have I never consider the Cavs a legit threat to win the East due to there choke factor in the playoffs and lack of solid players around LeBron. Mo Williams, and Delonte West are not the answers and when LeBron starts throwing up bricks in the playoffs I doubt Daniel Gibson will be dusting off his game again to lead them to the promise land. Wally, Big Z, and Anderson Varja-fro are not the inside players that champs are made of. I know it, you know it and the American people know it. Why don't the Cavs? If this is what they give LeBron for support then I guess I do know why people are talking about where he goes in 2010.
Turning to college hoops I must mention how cool it is to work in a Big East building. Ranked teams all the time and Marquette themselves are #14 right now! It's no America East and that's no slight on them, but... well let's just stick with "it's no America East." Speaking of I got to watch Vermont/Boston University the other day and I enjoyed seeing my guys out there. It was a much needed comeback win but I hated the new black jerseys. It sort of worked as an alternate for hockey, but not basketball. Hey UVM..... paying attention? UVM school colors: Green and Gold.... See what's not there? Yeah, black. White is always an acceptable mix and black can be used in accent form but a full black uniform gives the impression to folks not in-the-know that black is one of your school colors. represent your school colors proudly and get the names off the backs of the jerseys. UVM has always played for the name on the front, not the back. Why change that now?
NFL... I have to chime in on the Broncos head coaching situation because as an avid fan I'm asked about it a lot. The day their season ended I called for Mike Shanahan's head. Days later I got what I asked for. I was probably one of the few not shocked, but rather relieved. Shanny was awesome for Denver, but lately his ways have gotten stale. Teams have figured out his schemes and the Broncos needed something new while they still have a potent young offense. I'm not really sold on the new hire, Josh McDaniels, yet, but after I see him wearing Broncos gear a little more than the "tiny Elvis" head that he used to wear with the "oh we went 11 and 5 but didn't make the playoffs...too bad." Patriots. How bad must they feel looking at the Cardinals whom they crushed? Awesome.
What about them Cardinals, huh? Nice run, but I think it's over. They don't have a lot of big game players and I feel that they will be tight at home. The Eagles seem to be destined for the Bowl and I'd take them to win. Over in the AFC obviously I'm rooting for the Ravens. I don't care to get in to why right now but I've always hated the Steelers. If they make the Super Bowl it might be unwatchable. I hope that the "you can't beat a good team 3 times in one season" theory holds true, but I don't think it will. I'll take the Steelers. Thus setting up the Pennsylvania Bowl. Sadly I feel the Steelers Defense might be too much for the Eagles and sadly they are my pick to win right now. Anything else would be acceptable, but surely we'll get the Steelers because the NFL hates me.
It was good to see Oklahoma lose in the BCS championship game. However my national champion is Utah. That's the way it should be anyway when you don't lose a game all year. Years like this reiterate the point that a playoff is needed.
People here in Wisconsin actually pay attention to college football unlike Vermont. Having a Big Ten power in Wisconsin is reason enough I guess. It's sort of my new "Vermont NASCAR" in that I feel like I have to pay attention to know what my friends and colleagues are talking about. Better football than racing I guess, but we all just heard why I hate college football. C'est la vie.
I really hate that Tim Thomas is a Bruin. They, and he, are having a nice season but as a Canadiens fan I'm bred for hatred of all things Bruins. Damn you Tim... demand a trade so I can root for you. Also good to see that former Vermont captain, Jamie Siefers is doing well since being called up to the Maple Leafs this year, but again... Habs/Leafs big feud.
How hot is Sportscenter LIVE every morning? It's Hannah Storm hot! Not only is the sports reporting worth keeping your morning wood, but Hannah storming into your living room wakes you up with a smile too. Thanks ESPN. Feel free to sprinkle a little Erin Andrews or add a dash of Rachel Nichols just for taste. If I haven't put in my contacts yet you could sneak a Wendy Nix in to the mix as well.
Alright well that's all the time I have for now. Remember to check back for more and if you have something you want me to address in sports, have a comment, or have a question of any sports kind send it to: jason.piche@uvm.edu attn:Talking Trash Blog
Thanks for coming!!
*sings Eagles fight song while flapping wings
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