Rio Grande Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
On early Thursday morning the Dallas Cowboys release their star WR Terrell Owens. The Cowboys who miss last years playoffs, and lost the previous ones in the first rounds, felt the need for a change. And they change drastically, by letting go of Owens. According to Cowboy owner Jerry Jones, the decision was not base on the lack of chemistry of the team, which we all know it was, but just simply the right decision for the franchise. But there's life after death for Owens, just after two days of being cut by the boys, Owens found a new home with the Buffalo Bills.
Owens a 6-3, 218 pound WR, entering his 15th season with the bills, was not angry with the decision made by Jerry Jones to cut him but more surprise. Owens did thank the organization, and the city of Dallas for their support. At age 35 Owens now awaits a new challenge in Buffalo, with a young, still in development QB Trent Edwards, and a team who has come so close time and time again to reach the playoffs but always looking from the outside in.
Owens sign a 1-year contract worth 6.5 million. Alot of people will assume that there wasn't a whole lot of market for Owens. One year contract doesn't surprise me, I would have guess two at the most, given his history, his usually good for a couple of years before ripping the QB and causing the team to fall apart. The Bills are taking this as a gamble with a one year contract but with the productivities this season, I expect the Bills to extend his contract for a few more years.
The Bills were the last place in my mind to sign Owens, after seeing the list of teams who didn't want Owens, it was smart to assume the Oakland Raiders would have sign him. The only team publicly wanting Owens. That would have been chaotic from the start. No way was Owens going to catch any footballs with a QB like Jamarcus Russell. The Bills are a good fit. Why? They have a young QB in Trent Edwards, a good WR in Lee Evans and smart head coach, and it's a new home which means new team, which means fresh start. The Bills now have a big time weapon in Owens and have a very strong chance of making the playoffs.
The Cowboys releasing Owens was not a dumb move but not a smart move. Chances Cowboys make the playoffs next season without Owens are good, making it to the SuperBowl without him are not that good. Chances they would have made the playoff with him were good, chances of making it to the SuperBowl with him were better. It's clear the boys released him cause they thought he was a cancer in the locker room and thought without Owens maybe Tony Romo would be the QB we all are expecting him to be. Tony is going to be the same QB with or without Owens. His just not gonna have 81 as his target anymore.
Owens is still a top nfl receiver, the departure from Dallas means back to a normal offense and the arrival to Buffalo means an explosion of offense. Owens will sell out tickets, and get the team the lime light. Not that, that is his main goal, of course not Owens loves to win and with the Bills he has a good chance of winning alot of games. The Cowboys put a great deal of pressure on themselves by releasing Owens cause now they have to win to prove to america and the sports world, they don't need Owens. I will be laughing if the Bills make the playoffs and the Cowboys sit at home watching the playoffs, whatever the case maybe the boys must win games.
It's going to be weird watching Owens suit up in an AFC uniform but exciting to watch the team with Owens. The boys still have alot of weapons, and it'll be very exciting to see these two go at it in the SuperBowl, but lets be real that's not gonna happen, both teams will proably make the playoffs but will get knock out. Im actually looking forward to see a Bills game now more than the Cowboys game.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Chiefs and their Cassel
Rio Grande Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
Kansas City Chiefs have had better times in the past,... way in the past, back to the days of Joe Montana, ever since then, okay but not great. They made the post season before, but lets face it we all knew they barely made it to the post season, thanks to their RB Larry Johnson and all-pro all-star TE Tony Gonzalez.
Herman Edwards, former Chiefs head coach, did his best with what he had. Once a promising year with then QB Trent Green who unfortunately was done for the season, but still life after death, with 2nd string QB Damon Huard picking up were Trent Green left off. But yet again unfortunate for them just come this close before being knock out the playoff by the Colts.
And after that things just got even worst for the Chiefs. After a disappointing 2-14 season last year, and QB let down after let down, Tony Gonzalez and Larry Johnson both publicly asking for a trade to a team with championship material. The Chiefs were bound to drastically shake up and change things. New GM Scott Pioli, made sure of that. With his first major act as Chiefs GM Pioli pull off a convincing and promising trade. Landing QB Matt Cassel and LB Mike Vrabel from the New England Patriots, in exchange for a second round draft pick. Mike Vrabel is good, but Matt Cassel is great.
Matt Cassel at 6-4, 230 pounds, an undrafted QB out of USC, who I may also add up to last year has not started a football game since high school. He sat on the bench in USC behind QB Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, and sat on the bench in the NFL behind the almighty QB Tom Brady. Cassel got his opportunity in the very first game of the 08-09 season, when Tom Brady went down and down for the season with a knee injury. Cassel an unproven QB step up to the plate after the fall of Brady and lead the Patriots to an 11-5 season but fail to make the post-season. Cassel opportunity with the Patriots build up experience, starting experience, confidence, and even after new head coach Todd Haley said "the starting position is not automatic for Cassel" (we all know he's just being nice), possibly and more than likely a starting position with the Chiefs.
Scott Pioli is determine for improvement. Getting Matt Cassel a rising QB and a vetern LB Mike Vrabel. Here is something the Redskins fail in, in wasting all that money on one player, on one side of the field, the Chiefs got so much for so little on both sides of the field. Tony Gonzalez now has a QB he can look forward to playing with and Larry Johnson has a QB to run for, while on the other end the defense is getting stronger and faster. With a deal like this I don't expect the Chiefs to go far next season but will help them for the future.
I like this move for the city, for the team, for Pioli, for Haley and for Cassel. The Chiefs will play with energy and a goal next season, something that hasn't been there for awhile now. Chiefs are a team on the watch and already an much better improve team.
Gerald Salinas
Kansas City Chiefs have had better times in the past,... way in the past, back to the days of Joe Montana, ever since then, okay but not great. They made the post season before, but lets face it we all knew they barely made it to the post season, thanks to their RB Larry Johnson and all-pro all-star TE Tony Gonzalez.
Herman Edwards, former Chiefs head coach, did his best with what he had. Once a promising year with then QB Trent Green who unfortunately was done for the season, but still life after death, with 2nd string QB Damon Huard picking up were Trent Green left off. But yet again unfortunate for them just come this close before being knock out the playoff by the Colts.
And after that things just got even worst for the Chiefs. After a disappointing 2-14 season last year, and QB let down after let down, Tony Gonzalez and Larry Johnson both publicly asking for a trade to a team with championship material. The Chiefs were bound to drastically shake up and change things. New GM Scott Pioli, made sure of that. With his first major act as Chiefs GM Pioli pull off a convincing and promising trade. Landing QB Matt Cassel and LB Mike Vrabel from the New England Patriots, in exchange for a second round draft pick. Mike Vrabel is good, but Matt Cassel is great.
Matt Cassel at 6-4, 230 pounds, an undrafted QB out of USC, who I may also add up to last year has not started a football game since high school. He sat on the bench in USC behind QB Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, and sat on the bench in the NFL behind the almighty QB Tom Brady. Cassel got his opportunity in the very first game of the 08-09 season, when Tom Brady went down and down for the season with a knee injury. Cassel an unproven QB step up to the plate after the fall of Brady and lead the Patriots to an 11-5 season but fail to make the post-season. Cassel opportunity with the Patriots build up experience, starting experience, confidence, and even after new head coach Todd Haley said "the starting position is not automatic for Cassel" (we all know he's just being nice), possibly and more than likely a starting position with the Chiefs.
Scott Pioli is determine for improvement. Getting Matt Cassel a rising QB and a vetern LB Mike Vrabel. Here is something the Redskins fail in, in wasting all that money on one player, on one side of the field, the Chiefs got so much for so little on both sides of the field. Tony Gonzalez now has a QB he can look forward to playing with and Larry Johnson has a QB to run for, while on the other end the defense is getting stronger and faster. With a deal like this I don't expect the Chiefs to go far next season but will help them for the future.
I like this move for the city, for the team, for Pioli, for Haley and for Cassel. The Chiefs will play with energy and a goal next season, something that hasn't been there for awhile now. Chiefs are a team on the watch and already an much better improve team.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Show me the Money!
Former Tennessee Titan football star Albert Haynesworth, recently became a free agent, and was very quickly pick up by the Washington Redskins, for a fat prize. So fat that Haynesworth became the highest paid defensive tackle ever. And the only non-quarterback to reach the high paying deal.
Albert Haynesworth, 27 is 6-6, weighing in 320 pounds, and playing in his eighth season in the national football league, 7 with the Titans and now entering the new season with the Redskins. Haynesworth signed a 7 year, 100 million dollar deal, and 41 million guaranteed, with the Redskins. Wow! Show me the money, huh. Haynesworth has mighty steps he has to create. Stating, "You're not going to remember Albert Haynesworth as a bust," okay big fella, back up your bark by bitting.
Here's my problem with the deal. The Redskins have gotten close to becoming an elite and respective football team, entering the playoff two seasons ago and just missing it last season. They have a young coach in Jim Zorn, and a developing QB Jason Campbell. I guess in their eyes they're missing a defensive tackle. Remember last year they brought in Jason Taylor and sign D'anglo Hall mid-season, and they still couldn't make the playoff?
What makes them think they can now compete with the Giants, Eagles, Cardinals, and Cowboys all who have explosive offensives. Adding Haynesworth isn't going to help much. Yes Haynesworth came out of nowhere, after ruining his image three season when stepping on the face of a Dallas Cowboy player, and yes, is reaching his prime in the game. Was he a steal from the Titans absolutely no. What made Haynesworth a DT to be wrecking with in Tennessee, were his supporting cast, and the outstanding performance of Kerry Collins. In other words as good as you are (Haynesworth) they made you look good.
I don't have a problem with the Redskins signing him, but the amount of money they gave him, 100 million is way to much for a player who only had two good season. Adding Haynesworth will not bring a championship to Washington, get them in the playoff? Yeah, maybe. How about adding Derrick Brooks who was just release from Tamba earlier this week and adding Marvin Harris who also was release this week, with the money giving to Haynesworth I'm sure they could have afford both those guys, and would have added players (very good players) on both sides of the field.
Football is a team sports with QB taking driver seat. So I have no problem if they sign Kurt Warner or Brett Farve for that kind of money.
Money well spent, not exactly, but hey if they have the money go for it, I guess. Not a good deal in 7 years the Redskins will be this close to a good contender to the elite teams, but will never pass the hump. Haynesworth, bring it man, you're a rich and lucky man.
Albert Haynesworth, 27 is 6-6, weighing in 320 pounds, and playing in his eighth season in the national football league, 7 with the Titans and now entering the new season with the Redskins. Haynesworth signed a 7 year, 100 million dollar deal, and 41 million guaranteed, with the Redskins. Wow! Show me the money, huh. Haynesworth has mighty steps he has to create. Stating, "You're not going to remember Albert Haynesworth as a bust," okay big fella, back up your bark by bitting.
Here's my problem with the deal. The Redskins have gotten close to becoming an elite and respective football team, entering the playoff two seasons ago and just missing it last season. They have a young coach in Jim Zorn, and a developing QB Jason Campbell. I guess in their eyes they're missing a defensive tackle. Remember last year they brought in Jason Taylor and sign D'anglo Hall mid-season, and they still couldn't make the playoff?
What makes them think they can now compete with the Giants, Eagles, Cardinals, and Cowboys all who have explosive offensives. Adding Haynesworth isn't going to help much. Yes Haynesworth came out of nowhere, after ruining his image three season when stepping on the face of a Dallas Cowboy player, and yes, is reaching his prime in the game. Was he a steal from the Titans absolutely no. What made Haynesworth a DT to be wrecking with in Tennessee, were his supporting cast, and the outstanding performance of Kerry Collins. In other words as good as you are (Haynesworth) they made you look good.
I don't have a problem with the Redskins signing him, but the amount of money they gave him, 100 million is way to much for a player who only had two good season. Adding Haynesworth will not bring a championship to Washington, get them in the playoff? Yeah, maybe. How about adding Derrick Brooks who was just release from Tamba earlier this week and adding Marvin Harris who also was release this week, with the money giving to Haynesworth I'm sure they could have afford both those guys, and would have added players (very good players) on both sides of the field.
Football is a team sports with QB taking driver seat. So I have no problem if they sign Kurt Warner or Brett Farve for that kind of money.
Money well spent, not exactly, but hey if they have the money go for it, I guess. Not a good deal in 7 years the Redskins will be this close to a good contender to the elite teams, but will never pass the hump. Haynesworth, bring it man, you're a rich and lucky man.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Nothing last forever
(Image courtesy of sportinglife.com) Rio Grande Herald Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
On Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2009, the Indianapolis Colts release their star, franchise-2nd all time receptions, play-making receiver, Marvin Harrison.
Harrison, a 185 pound 6-0 tall, straight out of Syracuse, 13 year receiver for the Colts has played his last game for the Colts. In the 08-09 season. The departure between the two was inevitable in these last weeks. Harrison has slowly been creeping his way down to the 3rd slot receiver behind Reggie Wayne who has clearly been thrown-to more than Harrison and behind Anthony Gonzales (Peyton Manning's new favorite target) was just not going to work for another season.
Harrison was never really the same during and after the 07 season due to injuries and an off season knee surgery. He missed 5 games in the 07 season played the 08-09 season, but missing a step. Of course the Colts will never admit to that.
As made clearly in the press conference this wasn't an ugly break-up, but a mutual one. Harrison being 36 knowing he wasn't the go-to guy anymore. The Colts who, not happily, willing to pay $13.4 million in the 09 cap, made things easier for each other. The Colts now save $6 million but still $7.4 million prorated bonus money in the books. And Harrison deserving has a chance to resurrect his career, whom whichever team will pick him up. And why wouldn't they? Harrison has 471 more receptions, 5,305 more receiving yards and 60 more touchdown receptions than any other receiver in Colts' history.
All-Time Colts Ranks | |||
| Franchise rank | Next best* | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Receptions | 1,102 | 1st | 631 |
| Rec yds | 14,580 | 1st | 9,275 |
| Rec TD | 128 | 1st | 68 |
I actually like this move for both the team and player. It wasn't about the money, but more about respect. Harrison is an elite WR, but his 13 years with the Colts, (who granted his release) has simply wore out. Peyton Manning along with the organization stated "Marvin will always be a Colt in my book"
Harrison you are a gifted WR, now go help out other teams in great need, like the Eagles, the Seahawks, Bears, or even the Raiders. Wherever team you land up with, you will be well utilized.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Goodbye, 4ever?
Rio Grande Herald Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
February 11, 2009 a date which will be remembered as the day the almighty Brett Favre retires from the game of football, again. Favre, via email has informed the New York Jets organization he is done for good. We all seen this episode before, Favre steps up to the media and announces his retirement. Yes, Brett Favre has flirted with retirement in his past knowingly in the back of his mind that he can, and will still play. Now under different circumstances, it's also a different story.
Brett Favre, playing his last season with the Jets, will not be returning as the Jets QB. Favre playing 18 season, (17 with the Green Bay Packers) has been nothing short of outstanding in his career. Breaking every record there is to break as a QB, even interceptions, but most impressive most consecutive starts, standing toe to toe with the best of them.
Favre, did retire last season a month later than this season. He stated last season that it was time to leave the game of football. Looking back, at the time you really didn't feel it was over, he wasn't convincing in his retirement speech, saying he can still play at a high level, and also adding he still had two years in him. So what happened? After an ugly mess with his former team the Green Bay Packers, he return back to the game, same green , different team.
Favre, didn't have his best year with the Jets. After giving the Jets an 8-3 start and whispers of Super Bowl contenders, the Jets failed to make the playoff and Favre threw for 2 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Causing teammates to speak negative on Favre.
So was it a good move for both Favre and the Jets to play with each other? Yes absolutely, Favre being 38 when he sign now 39 was the best fit for the struggling Jets. Lets face it Chad Pennington was not gonna take the Jets anywhere, the Jets did push him to the curve for Favre but it also worked out good for Chad, he then was picked up by the Miami Dolphins where he resurrected his career. Good move so far. Next, not so much the city of New York since they already had, back then, defending Super Bowl champs New York Giants and for the fan base of the Jets, he brought back excitement to the fans that were ready to give up on the team. He brought respect to the team, and place confidences inside the locker room. And most importantly he brought satisfaction to himself. Saying he still could perform at a high level just a year ago, this season took its' toll on him. Letting him know the gas was running out.
So is this the last of Brett Favre? I believe so. As tough as he is, his age is catching up. As mention before he started off hot and slowly and surely his body to be specific his arm was giving out. Leading to believe his retirement was inevitable this off-season.
I've seen Favre compete with many of the great teams in the past in front of my television set when I was a young boy. I followed his career, and grew a fan of his style of play, his team, his boy like attitude towards the game. When Favre would throw a touchdown it was as if he threw his first touchdown ever and when he threw an interception he was motivated not to throw another one; ever. That of course not being the case, but there is no other player like Favre, yes you have your "Favre-like" players but one like him there isn't.
Sadden by this news as a football fan, I am also excited for him. He is finally at peace with the game, and will walk away with no regrets. Favre will be remembered as one of the games elite players if not the best player to ever play the game. Thanks Favre for the hope and inspiration you gave to many, thanks for the memories, you will be missed. Goodbye number 4, forever.
Gerald Salinas
February 11, 2009 a date which will be remembered as the day the almighty Brett Favre retires from the game of football, again. Favre, via email has informed the New York Jets organization he is done for good. We all seen this episode before, Favre steps up to the media and announces his retirement. Yes, Brett Favre has flirted with retirement in his past knowingly in the back of his mind that he can, and will still play. Now under different circumstances, it's also a different story.
Brett Favre, playing his last season with the Jets, will not be returning as the Jets QB. Favre playing 18 season, (17 with the Green Bay Packers) has been nothing short of outstanding in his career. Breaking every record there is to break as a QB, even interceptions, but most impressive most consecutive starts, standing toe to toe with the best of them.
Favre, did retire last season a month later than this season. He stated last season that it was time to leave the game of football. Looking back, at the time you really didn't feel it was over, he wasn't convincing in his retirement speech, saying he can still play at a high level, and also adding he still had two years in him. So what happened? After an ugly mess with his former team the Green Bay Packers, he return back to the game, same green , different team.
Favre, didn't have his best year with the Jets. After giving the Jets an 8-3 start and whispers of Super Bowl contenders, the Jets failed to make the playoff and Favre threw for 2 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Causing teammates to speak negative on Favre.
So was it a good move for both Favre and the Jets to play with each other? Yes absolutely, Favre being 38 when he sign now 39 was the best fit for the struggling Jets. Lets face it Chad Pennington was not gonna take the Jets anywhere, the Jets did push him to the curve for Favre but it also worked out good for Chad, he then was picked up by the Miami Dolphins where he resurrected his career. Good move so far. Next, not so much the city of New York since they already had, back then, defending Super Bowl champs New York Giants and for the fan base of the Jets, he brought back excitement to the fans that were ready to give up on the team. He brought respect to the team, and place confidences inside the locker room. And most importantly he brought satisfaction to himself. Saying he still could perform at a high level just a year ago, this season took its' toll on him. Letting him know the gas was running out.
So is this the last of Brett Favre? I believe so. As tough as he is, his age is catching up. As mention before he started off hot and slowly and surely his body to be specific his arm was giving out. Leading to believe his retirement was inevitable this off-season.
I've seen Favre compete with many of the great teams in the past in front of my television set when I was a young boy. I followed his career, and grew a fan of his style of play, his team, his boy like attitude towards the game. When Favre would throw a touchdown it was as if he threw his first touchdown ever and when he threw an interception he was motivated not to throw another one; ever. That of course not being the case, but there is no other player like Favre, yes you have your "Favre-like" players but one like him there isn't.
Sadden by this news as a football fan, I am also excited for him. He is finally at peace with the game, and will walk away with no regrets. Favre will be remembered as one of the games elite players if not the best player to ever play the game. Thanks Favre for the hope and inspiration you gave to many, thanks for the memories, you will be missed. Goodbye number 4, forever.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Things that make you go "hmm..."
Rio Grande Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
Clash of the Titans
Hmm... so the Lakers and Cavs game didn't go explosive like I expected it to be, but lets keep in mind that this is just a regular season game, and thank goodness for that. Who would have know Kobe would get the flu and still played decent while being shown on the bench covering himself like it was below 20 degrees in there. LeBron didn't have a fantastic night himself, with quite possibly his worst shooting game in his career going 5 for 20 just finishing up with 16 points. When LeBron has a bad game, where is his team? I mean, come on, Lamar Odom getting 19 points and 17 rebounds just cause Kobe was out of the game does not mean the Lakers have no team. The Lakers victory gave them their 6th straight win on the road and the Cavs their first defeat at home giving them 23 and 1 record.
Say it ain't so
Hmm... Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod) testing positive for human growth hormone (HGH) back in 2003, and not just him but also 103 other players also tested positive. Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds, etc... have all tested positive and are in deep water. I still find it hard to answer the question "why would baseball players take any type of steroids?". Then again I'm not a baseball player so I can't come up with an answer. I don't believe this will affect A-Rod much, cause he did something the other players I mention did not do; told the truth. Saying he did take HGH from 2001 to 2003 and apologized, regretting his action. We tend to forgive players who say they're "sorry". A-Rod is a great player with multi MVPs and still a future hall-of-framer.
High in the water
Hmm... Michael Phelps smoking a bong. Yeah good job on your image pal, you were my hero. Should I go smoke a couple of trees? Maybe I'll win 8 medals in the Olympics. Dude, seriously I know you're young only 23 years old and a lot of 23 year-old kids smoke all kinds of things, but you are not a normal 23 year old you're Aquaman, a hero to the American people and a role model for kids. I would think you won't do anything stupid again but didn't you said that last time you got stopped for DUI back in 2003, how you learn your lesson and have grown up. Yeah I'm not buying it this time neither, should the American people? Your 3 month suspension from swimming is less than fair but at least you're being punish. Okay dude.
Get younger
Hmm... Why are the Phoenix Suns willing to trade Amare Stoudemire? Not only is he one of their best players next to Steve Nash he is one of the youngest. Why would you trade him? He has done nothing but improve year after year. Are they looking for more veteran players like Shaq who is getting way more minutes and touches, this offense seems to be going through Shaq now and forgot about Amare. The Suns need to get rid of Shaq and start finding new and young players and concentrate more on the fast transition team they once were before Shaq came into town. His time has been up and the Suns aren't going to go anywhere with him as the main player on that team. Steve Nash I love him the best point guard I've seen but his age is catching up to him he still has it but only if Amare stays.
Hmm... Not normal things you hear but hey, its sports where anything is possible. Sometimes things need to be left alone.
Gerald Salinas
Clash of the Titans
Hmm... so the Lakers and Cavs game didn't go explosive like I expected it to be, but lets keep in mind that this is just a regular season game, and thank goodness for that. Who would have know Kobe would get the flu and still played decent while being shown on the bench covering himself like it was below 20 degrees in there. LeBron didn't have a fantastic night himself, with quite possibly his worst shooting game in his career going 5 for 20 just finishing up with 16 points. When LeBron has a bad game, where is his team? I mean, come on, Lamar Odom getting 19 points and 17 rebounds just cause Kobe was out of the game does not mean the Lakers have no team. The Lakers victory gave them their 6th straight win on the road and the Cavs their first defeat at home giving them 23 and 1 record.
Say it ain't so
Hmm... Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod) testing positive for human growth hormone (HGH) back in 2003, and not just him but also 103 other players also tested positive. Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds, etc... have all tested positive and are in deep water. I still find it hard to answer the question "why would baseball players take any type of steroids?". Then again I'm not a baseball player so I can't come up with an answer. I don't believe this will affect A-Rod much, cause he did something the other players I mention did not do; told the truth. Saying he did take HGH from 2001 to 2003 and apologized, regretting his action. We tend to forgive players who say they're "sorry". A-Rod is a great player with multi MVPs and still a future hall-of-framer.
High in the water
Hmm... Michael Phelps smoking a bong. Yeah good job on your image pal, you were my hero. Should I go smoke a couple of trees? Maybe I'll win 8 medals in the Olympics. Dude, seriously I know you're young only 23 years old and a lot of 23 year-old kids smoke all kinds of things, but you are not a normal 23 year old you're Aquaman, a hero to the American people and a role model for kids. I would think you won't do anything stupid again but didn't you said that last time you got stopped for DUI back in 2003, how you learn your lesson and have grown up. Yeah I'm not buying it this time neither, should the American people? Your 3 month suspension from swimming is less than fair but at least you're being punish. Okay dude.
Get younger
Hmm... Why are the Phoenix Suns willing to trade Amare Stoudemire? Not only is he one of their best players next to Steve Nash he is one of the youngest. Why would you trade him? He has done nothing but improve year after year. Are they looking for more veteran players like Shaq who is getting way more minutes and touches, this offense seems to be going through Shaq now and forgot about Amare. The Suns need to get rid of Shaq and start finding new and young players and concentrate more on the fast transition team they once were before Shaq came into town. His time has been up and the Suns aren't going to go anywhere with him as the main player on that team. Steve Nash I love him the best point guard I've seen but his age is catching up to him he still has it but only if Amare stays.
Hmm... Not normal things you hear but hey, its sports where anything is possible. Sometimes things need to be left alone.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Kobe vs. LeBron
Rio Grande Herald Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas
When you get the Los Angles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers (Cavs) you get two power houses going at it. Who? LA's Kobe Bryant and Cleveland's LeBron James.
Kobe Bryant standing 6-6, 205 and at age 30 is one of the NBA most dynamic player in recent history. Jumping straight out of high school to the pros. Leading his team to 3 NBA Finals victories. And coming so close to a fourth NBA Finals victory just last year. When you have a guy like Kobe on your team more importantly on the floor, expect an average of 25 to 27 shots taken a game. And expect about 15 to 18 of those shots to be made. Kobe will deliver the entire game and when it matters most in the fourth quarter.
LeBron James standing 6-9, 260 clearly overpowering Kobe by a pretty good amount, and at age 24 is one of the most exciting players ever. LeBron another athlete who made the transition from high school to pros, and one of the rare next to Kobe to do it successfully. LeBron doesn't have the resume quite like Kobe but he will if not surpass it. Taking his team to the NBA Finals just two years ago, and not really coming close to victory, LeBron did prove that he himself can take his team to the Finals. LeBron forte is driving it to the rim, strong. Where most coaches want their players, it draws fouls and a better shot opportunity. With LeBron gifted abilities the sky's isn't the limit, it's beyond that. LeBron will dominant the game in many ways. As a scorer he will average about 28.5 points per game, as a magnet to the ball he averages 7.5 rebounds and as a team player he'll average 7 assist.
As much as I and NBA fans want to see LeBron and Kobe one on one, it just ain't going to happen. As both their respected teams collide LeBron's team does lead Kobe's team in overall meetings 6-4. Last meeting Lakers did top Cavs, and Kobe did manage to dislocate his ring finger on his shooting hand.
Meeting for the final time in the regular season, Feb. 8, 2009, LeBron's team will bump heads again with Kobe's team. This time proven to be a bit more interesting, last time they met it was in L.A. This time it'll be in Cleveland where the Cavs are 23-0. Undefeated at home for the first time in franchise history. The Lakers might put an end to that streak, they done it to the one of the hottest teams already twice, ending Boston Celtics 19 game winning streak on Christmas day and yet again last night ending Boston 12 game winning streak. Will they make this ending streak a habit? Or will LeBron and his team make a stand?
These two love to compete, it's almost as they love to compete with one another. Just last month these two teams play each other, just last week these two players lite up MSG, and now just hours away these two teams, and two players will compete against each other. Kobe is the better shooter of the two, and LeBron is the better stronger driver of the two. Clash of the titans no doubt. Kobe is able to do things LeBron cannot do and LeBron can do things cannot do, that's what makes this all but more exciting. Two different styles, with two different players, on two different teams.
Both are ready to lead their teams to victory. Whatever the outcome, I guarantee this will be an explosive match up. Who's the better player of the two? Only time will tell.
Gerald Salinas
When you get the Los Angles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers (Cavs) you get two power houses going at it. Who? LA's Kobe Bryant and Cleveland's LeBron James.
Kobe Bryant standing 6-6, 205 and at age 30 is one of the NBA most dynamic player in recent history. Jumping straight out of high school to the pros. Leading his team to 3 NBA Finals victories. And coming so close to a fourth NBA Finals victory just last year. When you have a guy like Kobe on your team more importantly on the floor, expect an average of 25 to 27 shots taken a game. And expect about 15 to 18 of those shots to be made. Kobe will deliver the entire game and when it matters most in the fourth quarter.
LeBron James standing 6-9, 260 clearly overpowering Kobe by a pretty good amount, and at age 24 is one of the most exciting players ever. LeBron another athlete who made the transition from high school to pros, and one of the rare next to Kobe to do it successfully. LeBron doesn't have the resume quite like Kobe but he will if not surpass it. Taking his team to the NBA Finals just two years ago, and not really coming close to victory, LeBron did prove that he himself can take his team to the Finals. LeBron forte is driving it to the rim, strong. Where most coaches want their players, it draws fouls and a better shot opportunity. With LeBron gifted abilities the sky's isn't the limit, it's beyond that. LeBron will dominant the game in many ways. As a scorer he will average about 28.5 points per game, as a magnet to the ball he averages 7.5 rebounds and as a team player he'll average 7 assist.
As much as I and NBA fans want to see LeBron and Kobe one on one, it just ain't going to happen. As both their respected teams collide LeBron's team does lead Kobe's team in overall meetings 6-4. Last meeting Lakers did top Cavs, and Kobe did manage to dislocate his ring finger on his shooting hand.
Meeting for the final time in the regular season, Feb. 8, 2009, LeBron's team will bump heads again with Kobe's team. This time proven to be a bit more interesting, last time they met it was in L.A. This time it'll be in Cleveland where the Cavs are 23-0. Undefeated at home for the first time in franchise history. The Lakers might put an end to that streak, they done it to the one of the hottest teams already twice, ending Boston Celtics 19 game winning streak on Christmas day and yet again last night ending Boston 12 game winning streak. Will they make this ending streak a habit? Or will LeBron and his team make a stand?
These two love to compete, it's almost as they love to compete with one another. Just last month these two teams play each other, just last week these two players lite up MSG, and now just hours away these two teams, and two players will compete against each other. Kobe is the better shooter of the two, and LeBron is the better stronger driver of the two. Clash of the titans no doubt. Kobe is able to do things LeBron cannot do and LeBron can do things cannot do, that's what makes this all but more exciting. Two different styles, with two different players, on two different teams.
Both are ready to lead their teams to victory. Whatever the outcome, I guarantee this will be an explosive match up. Who's the better player of the two? Only time will tell.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
One player vs New York Knicks
The game of basketball consist of 5 players vs 5 players. But in the case of the New York Knicks one player is enough to lose to. The Knicks don't have the great team they once did back in the 90's but they do have an improve team compare to last years. But three players made these New York Knicks fans embarrassed to be fans.
Madison Square Garden (MSG) is the mecca of most sports events. Most notably the NBA, here's an arena where history has been made, where the great players of all sports have been in and an arena, home to the Knicks.
Lets face it the Knicks as of late have been a laughing stock of the NBA which is kind of unfair to say given the talent that has play at MSG. But no one was laughing when the great Michael Jordan score 55 points, Kobe Bryant score a record breaking 61 points and last but not least LeBron James score 52 points. By the way each of these players team won the game.
Are the Knicks soft when it comes to intimidating players? Or are these players just that good and perform their best when the spot light is on them? Like I said the team this year does not compare when it had Ewing, Houston, Jackson, and L.J. But it has improve from last year now under coach Mike D'Antoni, to a more fast and offensive team. But does that still mean they can't stop one man?
The answer should be no. On Monday Kobe Bryant walk into MSG with the mind set on scoring points to helping his team win. And did he score, 19 for 31 on the floor and 20 for 20 and the free throw line, giving him 61 points a new record for MSG and giving his team the win. This is ridiculous it's not that he was a ball hog, it's that the Knicks had no answer in stopping Kobe. He just straight up dominated that floor and to kick the Knicks while their down the fans started chanting MVP to Kobe. You know your good when the opposing team fans start rooting MVP for a player who's slapping your team around.
Okay that night is gone let the Knicks put it behind them cause they ain't going to let that happen again. Now two days after that amazing performance by Kobe the Knicks have to concentrate on the Cleveland Cavaliers or LeBron James. The last time King James enter MSG, Spike Lee who is an extraordinary director and long life Knicks fan was talking a little trash to King James. King James that night played like an MVP and began to built a little confidence shouting out 50 (meaning he's going to score 50 points) to Spike Lee. Spike Lee laughing became witness to 50 points performance by King James. What are the odds King James will have another 50 point night especially since two nights ago Kobe batter the Knicks. Odds of that happen, pretty good so good it became reality. You almost got the sense King James went in there trying to beat Kobe nights and in many ways he did. LeBron came 9 points away from tying Kobe and 10 points from setting a new record. But just cause he came up short does not mean he didn't have a monstrous game. King James finish the night with 52 points (breaking his record at MSG, previous score 50) 11 assist and 10 rebounds, and more importantly a win. And this time Spike Lee gives LeBron respect.
LeBron, Kobe, and Michael all having stand out performances at MSG. Again I ask the question. Are these guys good? We know Michael is legendary. Or are the Knicks just afraid of great players? Come on Knicks you guys are never gonna go far unless you can stop this from happeningThere's talk about LeBron moving to New York in the 2010 free agency class. If that ends up happening maybe MSG will have the record breaking by one of it's own player. For the present the Knicks can't take on big time players and as much as their hurting for the lost and the embarrassment it sure is fun as a fan of these guys to watch them play beyond there abilities.
Who had the better game between Kobe and King James? King James did.
Madison Square Garden (MSG) is the mecca of most sports events. Most notably the NBA, here's an arena where history has been made, where the great players of all sports have been in and an arena, home to the Knicks.
Lets face it the Knicks as of late have been a laughing stock of the NBA which is kind of unfair to say given the talent that has play at MSG. But no one was laughing when the great Michael Jordan score 55 points, Kobe Bryant score a record breaking 61 points and last but not least LeBron James score 52 points. By the way each of these players team won the game.
Are the Knicks soft when it comes to intimidating players? Or are these players just that good and perform their best when the spot light is on them? Like I said the team this year does not compare when it had Ewing, Houston, Jackson, and L.J. But it has improve from last year now under coach Mike D'Antoni, to a more fast and offensive team. But does that still mean they can't stop one man?
The answer should be no. On Monday Kobe Bryant walk into MSG with the mind set on scoring points to helping his team win. And did he score, 19 for 31 on the floor and 20 for 20 and the free throw line, giving him 61 points a new record for MSG and giving his team the win. This is ridiculous it's not that he was a ball hog, it's that the Knicks had no answer in stopping Kobe. He just straight up dominated that floor and to kick the Knicks while their down the fans started chanting MVP to Kobe. You know your good when the opposing team fans start rooting MVP for a player who's slapping your team around.
Okay that night is gone let the Knicks put it behind them cause they ain't going to let that happen again. Now two days after that amazing performance by Kobe the Knicks have to concentrate on the Cleveland Cavaliers or LeBron James. The last time King James enter MSG, Spike Lee who is an extraordinary director and long life Knicks fan was talking a little trash to King James. King James that night played like an MVP and began to built a little confidence shouting out 50 (meaning he's going to score 50 points) to Spike Lee. Spike Lee laughing became witness to 50 points performance by King James. What are the odds King James will have another 50 point night especially since two nights ago Kobe batter the Knicks. Odds of that happen, pretty good so good it became reality. You almost got the sense King James went in there trying to beat Kobe nights and in many ways he did. LeBron came 9 points away from tying Kobe and 10 points from setting a new record. But just cause he came up short does not mean he didn't have a monstrous game. King James finish the night with 52 points (breaking his record at MSG, previous score 50) 11 assist and 10 rebounds, and more importantly a win. And this time Spike Lee gives LeBron respect.
LeBron, Kobe, and Michael all having stand out performances at MSG. Again I ask the question. Are these guys good? We know Michael is legendary. Or are the Knicks just afraid of great players? Come on Knicks you guys are never gonna go far unless you can stop this from happeningThere's talk about LeBron moving to New York in the 2010 free agency class. If that ends up happening maybe MSG will have the record breaking by one of it's own player. For the present the Knicks can't take on big time players and as much as their hurting for the lost and the embarrassment it sure is fun as a fan of these guys to watch them play beyond there abilities.
Who had the better game between Kobe and King James? King James did.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Super Bowl XLlll
A moment of silence for football season is over. But what a way to go. Just when I thought the Super Bowl couldn't be as exciting as last years, here come the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals to prove me wrong. This game was no let down as the Cards (Arizona Cardinals) fighting for their place in history and the Steelers (Pittsburgh Steelers) fighting for dominance. But ultimately both fighting for a Super Bowl victory.
Giving credit to the Steelers the way they played, they deserve to win. Big Ben (Ben Roethlisberger) played like a legend never giving up on any play, making something out of most of the time nothing. Feet like Tony Romo, risky like Brett Favre, and smart like Tom Brady and you get an elite QB Big Ben. Big Ben drove his team to the Super Bowl for the second time in four years and drove them to their sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy. I'm giving a lot of credit to Big Ben but the whole team deserves the credit. Their defense was solid and their coaching under the realm of second year coach Mike Tomlin were superb.
For every winner there's every loser. The Cards may have lost the game but in a lot of people eyes emerge winners. Who would have thought an 9-7 team would make it to the playoff let alone the Super Bowl. Kurt Warner going for his second Super Bowl victory in his third Super Bowl appearance was this close to winning it. Kurt (37 years old) also prove he belongs in the hall of fame. Larry Fitzgerald played out of his mind the whole playoff of run and had a good game. And their defense would had been great if it wasn't for that special QB on the other end Big Ben.
The game was exciting living up beyond expectation. The Steelers started off hot scoring on their first drive and eventually took a 10 to 7 lead. The Cards were getting the momentum right before the half and a few plays away from taking the lead before the shocker came in, the 100 yard return for a touch down interception. Which gave the Steelers a 17 to 7 lead at the half. I don't blame that pick on Kurt but I do blame the touch down on the Cards what happen no until the end was able to catch up with a 200 plus line backer one yard away from the goal line and no touch down and the second quarter will be over. The Cards did answer back being down 20 to 7 and how did they answer Larry Fitzgerald. Why did they take so long to get this guy in the game it's not like the Steelers defense took him out of the game cause in the fourth were it matters most Larry Fitzgerald score not once but twice on the defense giving the Cards the lead 23 to 20 I mean this was amazing to watch but unfortunately too much time remain on the clock for Big
Ben to become legendary leading his team down the field with two minutes to go and throwing the perfect past to Santonio Holmes, who had one of the most incredible catches in Super Bowl history next to the Eli Manning to David Tyree catch. To take the lead. One thing that bugs me is the no call for his celebration in a game were flags were a dime a dozen there was no flag for his football props. This would have giving the Cards better field position. But alright then the last play of the game were they call a fumble, it was clearly an incomplete pass there was no review. Come on this is the biggest game of the whole year and no penalty call and no review in the final minute. If called would this have giving a win for the Cards I don't know but at least giving them a better opportunity for them to win.
Taking nothing away from the Steelers they played their hearts out and the Cards just came up short. Two teams with two QB who have played and won a Super Bowl before with two new head coaches with two years under their belts gave us the second most watch Super Bowl in history and one for the ages. Congratulation to the stand alone six time champions and to the Cards for making believers out of all of us.
With a long off season ahead of us who knows what next year brings? More hungry teams and new faces. Will it be a season of the underdogs or the elite teams? Will it be all about the drama or pure competitive action? Whatever the outcome maybe rest a sure I'll be ready with all the football fans and hoping not to say well there's always next year.
Giving credit to the Steelers the way they played, they deserve to win. Big Ben (Ben Roethlisberger) played like a legend never giving up on any play, making something out of most of the time nothing. Feet like Tony Romo, risky like Brett Favre, and smart like Tom Brady and you get an elite QB Big Ben. Big Ben drove his team to the Super Bowl for the second time in four years and drove them to their sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy. I'm giving a lot of credit to Big Ben but the whole team deserves the credit. Their defense was solid and their coaching under the realm of second year coach Mike Tomlin were superb.
For every winner there's every loser. The Cards may have lost the game but in a lot of people eyes emerge winners. Who would have thought an 9-7 team would make it to the playoff let alone the Super Bowl. Kurt Warner going for his second Super Bowl victory in his third Super Bowl appearance was this close to winning it. Kurt (37 years old) also prove he belongs in the hall of fame. Larry Fitzgerald played out of his mind the whole playoff of run and had a good game. And their defense would had been great if it wasn't for that special QB on the other end Big Ben.
The game was exciting living up beyond expectation. The Steelers started off hot scoring on their first drive and eventually took a 10 to 7 lead. The Cards were getting the momentum right before the half and a few plays away from taking the lead before the shocker came in, the 100 yard return for a touch down interception. Which gave the Steelers a 17 to 7 lead at the half. I don't blame that pick on Kurt but I do blame the touch down on the Cards what happen no until the end was able to catch up with a 200 plus line backer one yard away from the goal line and no touch down and the second quarter will be over. The Cards did answer back being down 20 to 7 and how did they answer Larry Fitzgerald. Why did they take so long to get this guy in the game it's not like the Steelers defense took him out of the game cause in the fourth were it matters most Larry Fitzgerald score not once but twice on the defense giving the Cards the lead 23 to 20 I mean this was amazing to watch but unfortunately too much time remain on the clock for Big
Ben to become legendary leading his team down the field with two minutes to go and throwing the perfect past to Santonio Holmes, who had one of the most incredible catches in Super Bowl history next to the Eli Manning to David Tyree catch. To take the lead. One thing that bugs me is the no call for his celebration in a game were flags were a dime a dozen there was no flag for his football props. This would have giving the Cards better field position. But alright then the last play of the game were they call a fumble, it was clearly an incomplete pass there was no review. Come on this is the biggest game of the whole year and no penalty call and no review in the final minute. If called would this have giving a win for the Cards I don't know but at least giving them a better opportunity for them to win.
Taking nothing away from the Steelers they played their hearts out and the Cards just came up short. Two teams with two QB who have played and won a Super Bowl before with two new head coaches with two years under their belts gave us the second most watch Super Bowl in history and one for the ages. Congratulation to the stand alone six time champions and to the Cards for making believers out of all of us.
With a long off season ahead of us who knows what next year brings? More hungry teams and new faces. Will it be a season of the underdogs or the elite teams? Will it be all about the drama or pure competitive action? Whatever the outcome maybe rest a sure I'll be ready with all the football fans and hoping not to say well there's always next year.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
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