Hub in Full Effect

With the Celtics starting training camp and the Bruins set to drop the puck tomorrow night, Boston is once again a four team town. The Sox have clinched, Garnett is back and the Pats looked better last week so all systems are a go for the B's to start up where the left off last regular season. I'll be the first to say that last year this team should have gone farther and accomplished more, but winning the Eastern Conference, Vezina (Tim Thomas, Best Goalie), Norris (Zdeno Chara, Best Defenseman) and Jack Adams (Claude Julien, Best Coach) ain't too shabby. Still, this team has a lot to build on and could conceivably contend for the next half-decade if they can stay healthy and score. The emergence of David Krejci in 08-09 allowed for the B's to part ways with Phil "The Thrill" Kessel. It is unclear whether Krejci will be available for tomorrow night's tilt against the Caps, but if not this team has enough depth to win without him. Marc Savard and Milan Lucic will anchor the first line and expect to see either Blake Wheeler or Michael Ryder on the right side. Combine that with a second line of Patrice Bergeron, Chuck Kobasew and Mark Recchi and a third line of Marco Sturm centered by Krejci or Zac Hammel and either Ryder or Wheeler and you have three pretty solid lines.

The defense and goaltending, substitute Tuukka Rask for Manny Fernandez, is much the same and if they can repeat last season's success (Fewest goals allowed in the NHL) this team should finish in the top three in the Eastern Conference. The question then will be if this team can make the leap or fall short like so many Bruins teams in the 2000's. In my humble opinion, trading one of their first round picks in 2010 or 2011 for a scorer could make all the difference.

VICTORY! Sort of...

The Red Sox finally clinched the Wild Card last night, through no help of their own. Losing their fifth straight, it was the Rangers loss in Anaheim that sealed the deal for the Sox third consecutive post-season appearance. Although they are finally able to breathe easy and rest up for the playoffs, it would be nice to see this team win some games. Getting swept in New York is the last thing the Sox need before a potential ALCS showdown. Following that up with Clay Buchholz getting shelled by Toronto and suddenly I'm worried again. It's natural to feel this way, but after the 2008 ALCS, I'm not entirely sure the Sox can make it to the World Series with the starting pitching they have. Lester's knee and Beckett's ego will determine how far this team actual goes.

Preview To The Remix

The Red Sox wrapped up a three-game series with the Angels last night, losing 4-3. They did take two of three including a controversial 9-8 victory on Wednesday night. More importantly, however, was the re-emergence of Dice-K and the continued beat down of the Angels at Fenway. Sure they lost the last game, but Josh Beckett pitched brilliantly through eight innings and if not for a certain backup catcher going ole on a strikeout, it would have been 3-2 into the ninth. Despite Varitek's best sabotage efforts, the Red Sox have begun to heat up as the weather cools which is a good indication that they will go deep into October.

With the exception of Wednesday's game, the pitching was superb. Dice-K exceeded expectations with six scoreless, while Beckett looked like the ace once again. If the Red Sox are to make it far this post season they'll need performance like the aforementioned to win a third title this decade.

Fred Cusick 1918-2009

One of the legendary broadcasters of our time passed away Tuesday night. Fred Cusick, the great Bruins play-by-play man who inspired a new generation of fans in the Hub, was 90 years old. I am truly saddened by his departure and was glad to find out he was still doing radio down on the Cape this summer. The man loved his profession and was great at doing it. As a fellow broadcaster I am sad to see this day come, but may his legacy live on.

Meltdowns

It may be Wednesday (technically Thursday) but I got a few things I have to get off my chest. First and foremost, fuck you Kanye. I like to keep the blog clean but I really can't think of more appropriate sentiments and gigantic middle finger to Kanye West. If you've been under a rock, this ultra-mega-douche decided it would be appropriate to walk (scroll to the 0:26 mark) onto the stage of the MTV Movie Awards and take the mic from 19 year-old Taylor Swift. Swift had just won her first award and was about to give her jittery thanks to millions of adoring fans when West waltzed onstage to relieve her of her duties. Thanks buddy. He went on to spew about how Beyonce should have won, etc. etc. We all know how talented she is and you think you are, but let the girl have her moment. While it was refreshing to have Beyonce call Swift back to the stage to say what she wanted before, the ignorance shown by Kanye is just incredible. The awards will not be remembered for what award Swift won (which was...?) but rather the arrogant and selfish actions of Kanye West. Way to go ass hole. Go bang your nasty ass girlfriend.


Speaking of women, a certain female tennis player made news for all the wrong reasons this past Saturday. I'm talking of course about Serena Williams tirade on a line judge during her US Open Semi-Final. On a day normally dominated by Michigan - Notre Dame garble and how badly the Big Ten sucks (namely Ohio State), we actually heard quiet a loud rumble from a place no where near the day's biggest games. Instead we heard quite a bit about Serena's epic flip out. While she isn't the first tennis star to lose their marbles at an official, it comes as a surprise from an athlete who is generally fairly mild mannered and polite. Telling someone you are going to "(take) this ball and shovin' it in (their) fuckin' throat" is hardly lady like. But I guess when you're pissed you say things you don't mean. I've done it. Hell Obama called Kanye a jackass. I'm sure those two are tight.

To crucify Williams is a bit harsh. Most of the media has given her the chance to apologize, she even went on Good Morning America for her "I'm not that much of a hormonal bitch" tour. Her accolades are endless and for the most part she keeps her mood in check. Although this is a fairly big slip-up, it did cost her the match and rightfully so. To hang this over her head, though is unfair to her and the graceful game of tennis. At least Roger Federer kept his cool.

That's More Like It

For the first three quarters and a half quarters, it looked as though Tom Brady wasn't fully recovered. Over the last five minutes of Monday Night's game, however, he showed he was. He threw two TD passes in the final 2:06 to win a wild season opener over the Bills 25-24.

Although I was unable to physically watch the game, listening to it put me in sheer hysterics. After falling behind 24-13, Brady decided he'd had with the snakes on his plane and proceeded to lead an 11 play, 81-yard drive down the field; capped by an 18-yard strike to TE Ben Watson. The Bills put their hands team out (why?) and the Pats kicked it deep. Brandon Meriweather made the play of the night, stopping return man Leodis McKelvin in his tracks long enough to allow Pierre Woods to strip him of the ball. Kicker Stephen Gostkowski recovered the ball and the Pats were in business a shade outside the Bills 30 yard-line. Brady struck again, completing three passes including the difference making 16-yard strike to Watson on the identical play.

You can dwell on how poorly the Pats played or how the Bills should have won or even how Dick Jauron looks like death. But none of that matters. They found a way to win and should come as no surprise that it was Tom Terrific leading the charge.

Day to Remember

Today is the eight anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York. In 30 years, 9/11 won't have the same pull. It will be like Black Friday, Pearl Harbor and D-day before it. So before it fades into a distant memory take time out of your day and remember what happened. Unless you are just starting the second grade, chances are you remember it and where you were.

Sour Balls

Has there ever been such a big deal made about a man named Prince? On Sunday, Prince Fielder hit a walk-off homer against the Giants and proceeded to jump on home plate. Common practice in the game of baseball. What is not common is having your teammates all fall backwards as you do this. I personally have no problem with it but some people apparently do. Baseball is slow, sometimes boring and can be meaningless this time of year. But that didn't stop Prince from having a little fun on the Sunday before Labor Day. While some players not involved, like Torii Hunter, decide to give their two cents it remains to be seen how the Giants feel. As this is my blog, I'll tell you how they should feel. They shouldn't get upset because the Brewers are out of it and you know Fielder mentioned the celebration before he hit the homer. To have the balls to say that and follow through with it shows how good he really is. As far as the league is concerned, if Bud Selig tries to pull any crap with suspensions or more likely fines, he's doing the game and himself an injustice. He's already done that once in Milwaukee.

Just Say No

Richard Seymour was traded from the Patriots on Sunday to the Raiders for a first round pick in 2011. Or so we thought. It's almost Wednesday now and Seymour still isn't walking through that door. Raiders say he's working things out for a long-term contract, I say he's politely telling the Pats he'll do whatever necessary to stay.

While it is doubtful (read: impossible) Seymour will remain a Patriot, he is acting accordingly. The Raiders need help on the D-line and who better than someone with three Super Bowl victories and five Pro Bowl appearances. With these credentials comes a price. Seymour's got one year left on his contract and wisely wants some stability before fording the rivers and losing oxen on the trek out west.

Also, in the case of a certain Ohio State QB, just say no to speaking. Terrelle Pryor spoke after Saturday's win, explaining why he wrote "Mike Vick" on his eye black. As much as Pryor sucked in the game itself, the press conference was equally disastrous.
Disclaimer: If you are involved with Public Relations in any way, look away now. Here's what Mr. Pryor had to say,

"Not everybody's the perfect person in the world. I mean everyone kills people, murders people, steals from you, steals from me, whatever. I think that people need a second chance, and I've always looked up to Mike Vick, and I always will."

Needless to say, the Buckeyes may reconsider letting Pryor speak to the media without someone around to watch what he says. For now, just another great quote from a college athlete. Makes you wonder how much stock they put in the student part of student-athlete.

Who's the genius?

"In Bill We Trust" is the motto echoed throughout New England. The latest move by the Belichick brain trust has raised some doubts. Sunday, the Patriots traded five time Pro Bowler and three time Super Bowl winner Richard Seymour to the Oakland Raiders for their first round pick in the 2011 draft. After the initial shock of the deal, it appears that Belichick has once again made a controversial move that will be beneficial. As of now, it is unclear when it will be beneficial but Belichick has a track record of making moves that pan out.

Time will tell if the Raiders are getting the same Seymour that helped start a dynasty in New England or an aging D-Lineman who will be a free agent at season's end. "In Bill We Trust" indeed Pats fans.

Now I'll tell you who is NOT a genius. Shawne Merriman. Sometime around 3:45 a.m. Sunday, Merriman allegedly choked and restrained his gal Tila Tequila. It should not come as a surprise that he would let his temper get the best of him, probably just some roid rage. Interesting to see what, if any, punishment will be levied. At least there were no weapons involved.

I certainly do not condone domestic violence and would add that no matter what defense Merriman uses, nothing good happens at 3:45 a.m. Except Domino's 5-5-5.

Silly Canadians

In the US of A, lacrosse is mostly a sport for young men and women still enrolled in some form of academia. In Canada, it's for real men. Before today I didn't know of the existence of a professional lacrosse league in Canada, nor did I really care. However, that has changed now that Game One of the Mann Cup (seriously) is over.

A quick synopsis if I may. One of the stars for the Brampton Excelsiors (ManBearPig anyone?), Colin Doyle, was hit hard by a New Westminster Salmon-belly (Odd) and as he was being looked at by trainers, some players began grumbling about the event. One thing led to another and well, this happened.

Some pretty intense action for a lacrosse game I must say. It seems strange that this type of reaction would ensue but I guess its to be expected when you are vying for the now infamous Mann Cup. Fear not Excelsior fans, Doyle returned for Game 2 and helped even the series with two goals and four assists.

TGIF Grumblin'

If you were lucky to catch last night's Oregon - Boise State game, you hopefully saw LeGarrette Blount's outburst. Out of context this looks incredibly vicious and unprovoked. To be honest, I kind of like it. Oregon's new coach Chip Kelly certainly did not, suspending him the rest of the season. However, if you saw any of said game the Ducks were lifeless and pathetic. Granted, Blount's actions did little to fire up his team and came closer to inciting a riot but at least he gave the 'ole college try.

In other college football news, I would have fallen asleep watching NC State and South Carolina had I been watching it. However, the Red Sox were busy taking two of three from the nightmare palace known as Tropicana Field. The Ole Ball Coach can be happy they won a squeaker, but that effort won't hold up in the SEC and he knows it. Thankfully he gave internet sensation, and Heidi Watney nemesis, Erin Andrews exclusive insight on the matter. That's all for now, have a great Labor Day Weekend and always designate a driver, or chessboard. And in case you didn't notice, the Mets are awful.

For Those Living the Fantasy

At the behest of a reader, here is some free Fantasy insight. I am by no means an expert but I've read a multitude of sources which should help you out.

First and foremost, avoid Favre. He throws way too many interceptions (especially when he tries to make things happen) and he's got Adrian Peterson to give the ball to so I don't seem him doing much for your team.

Consider taking some lesser known backs like Ray Rice (Ravens) and TJ Duckett (Seahawks) both will be available late and could be studs if they stay healthy. Rice will probably split time with Willis McGahee but he could get the bulk of the load in the red zone.

Besides the obvious choices at wide-out, Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Johnson, Randy Moss, look at guys like Eddie Royal in Denver. If Brandon Marshall doesn't quit his whining he'll most likely be out and his distraction is Royal's gain. Also, don't forget about Tony Gonzalez in Indy. With Marvin Harrison gone, he's most likely going to step and fill the void.

Any questions feel free to leave them as a comment. Good luck loyal constituents.

Some Rumblings in Sport

There are many ludicrous deals in sports but the NHL has to be at the top with the number of years on a contract. Marian Hossa already signed a 12-year deal with Chicago and yesterday the Canucks did the same with goalie Roberto Luongo.

In other September NHL news, great article from Yahoo!Sports on the Bruins.

Remember former Boston College football coach Jeff Jagodzinski? He was the guy who was told he'd be fired if he interviewed for the New York Jets job. Well, he went to the interview, got fired by BC and wound up in Tampa Bay as the Bucs Offensive Coordinator. He clearly did something offensive because he was fired today.
Although not a BC fan myself, it is refreshing to see a team put loyalty in such high esteem. Clearly Jagodzinski took the Eagles job for granted and it backfired. Enjoy your trips to the unemployment line with Pacman!

Chew that Pacman

Earlier this week it was reported that Adam "Pacman" Jones was going to sign a one-year deal with Winnipeg of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Their coach, however, said no thanks and the troubled CB is still unemployed like the rest of the country.

Since being drafted Jones has been done more off the field than on it. The guys is a class A moron and Winnipeg should be applauded for their decision not to sign him.

Summer's over

The fall is the best time of the year anyways. Football season is upon us once again with college opening up tomorrow with a handful of games, most notably #16 Oregon at #14 Boise St. While the first weekend generally has some intriguing match-ups, it also has defending champion and #1 Florida welcoming Charleston Southern into the Swamp for what will undoubtedly be a one-sided affair. Look, I am all for Florida opening with a cupcake because they will face plenty of challenges later in the season playing in the SEC. But Charleston Southern? They are 73 point underdogs. Obviously you take the under.

Take a look at #11 LSU, they travel to Washington to take on the Huskies. While they were abysmal last year, they are still a FBS school playing in a BCS conference. At least the folks at LSU are trying to test themselves instead of feasting on some tiny opponent from South Carolina.

As the season begins, there is not shortage of headlines. Greg Paulus leaves Duke to become the QB for Syracuse. (Something tells me he's not going to matter much). Oklahoma St. TE Jamal Mosley left after a protective order was filed against him. (He was slated to be the starter but apparently couldn't handle johnny law in his grill?) Finally, Rich Rodriguez apparently over did it with some of the off-season workouts. Okay, so I understand that they restrict these workouts for a reason, but what is the reason? I mean for the most part this training occurs during the summer when school for most is not in session. So what gives? Are these restrictions in place so the kids can't be taught new plays, formations, etc.? Or are they there so the kids aren't physically exhausted by the first week of September? Either way, they don't seem to make sense. The players will learn the formations and plays anyway (spring practice anyone?) and if a coach wants to run them til exhaustion he's only hurting his own cause. The rules just don't make sense and all they seem to do is encourage parents to bitch, which they do enough of anyway.