Amidst massive media attention questioning whether Eli is the right "mann" in New York, the Giants young QB made a lot of pundits look brilliant in posting his second consecutive miserable game. The loss can not be solely thrown on the right arm of Manning, but he must shoulder a good portion of the blame. Worst of all, he looks to be suffering from a lack of confidence. On many occassions in last night's game Manning looked reluctant to pull the trigger. When he did manage to get his throws off, many balls were simply not thrown in the right places for his playmakers to make something happen. It's hard to imagine he hasn't been distracted by the multitude of experts who have labeled his draft day acquisition as a mistake. The loss of Amani Toomer is certainly taking its toll. By Manning's own admission, the receiver had emerged as a guy he could trust to make a big play. A few things about last night's disappointing loss really stuck out:
Where's the emotion? It seemed ironic on the night ESPN did it's feature on "Ballin", the Giants defense attempted no jump shots. Many purists would point to this is as a good thing, but it's not a matter of being a fan who enjoys celebrations. The defense had rallied around the group effort; it became a unifying force that provided a huge spark on both sides of the ball. Although the defense had little to cheer about last night, it was a clear demonstration that for some reason the Giants were playing with no emotion.
Not capitalizing early. After a fumbled snap that pinned the Jags deep in their own zone, the Giants started their first possession at the Jacksonville 30 yard line. A short run and an offside set the Giants up with a 2nd and 3 at the 23. Manning drilled a ball in to the ground on an easy swing pass to Tiki, then overthrew Plax on a deep ball. Feely converted the 40 yard attempt, but on the road against a tough team you need to put more than three points on the board in that situation.
Play Selection. While the final score wasn't indicative of how poorly the Giants played, it also does not demonstrate how close this game remained throughout. Despite that, the Giants, as they so often have, abandoned the run. Although ineffective, Barber needs more than ten carries. Of those ten, several were on second down draw plays that fooled no one and most of the others were just poorly timed. He never had a chance to get in to any sort of rythym, which is inexcusable in a game where your quarterback is struggling. His sore thumb clearly affected his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, but he should have been given more opportunities in more suitable running situations. The coaching staff also needs to find ways to get #80 involved early in football games. It is well known that the offense is a far better unit when their gifted TE is getting early touches. Especially with no receivers stepping up in Toomer's absence, there is no reason Shockey is not getting the football.
Lack of a Pass Rush/Big Cushion on Receivers. The impact of Strahan and Umenyiora's absence has been monumental in the pass rush. Forcing William Joseph to move outside not only depletes their depth in the middle, but poses no speed threat off the edge. It is also becoming apparent that Sam Madison has been the best corner on the defense. Corey Webster is routinely giving "Dave Thomas-esque" (not the Wendy's guy) cushions on his receivers. This is not a problem when faced with diminutive speedsters such as Santana Moss, but to be giving the big receivers on Jacksonville that much space to make catches is ridiculous.
Did Shiancoe's cheap shot on Donovin Darius spark the Jags? It may have, and the team had every right to be mad. The more notable reason to look at this situation is how Darius' backup filled in admirably. Much is made about the Giants losses, but the reason they're made to look worse is because many of the fill-ins have played sub-par ball. For Jacksonville, Gerald Sensabaugh came in and performed brilliantly. Across the field, Tim Carter turned the ball over as the Giants were heading in for a score, Barber had to stay in the backfield to protect Bob Whitfield, Reggie Torbor had an opportunity to kill a Jaguars critical late game drive but failed to wrap Garrard up, and the two fill ins at defensive end failed to produce a pass rush. In short, the starters are sorely missed.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Tuck loses season to foot injury
Luckily for the Giants, there is no cap on the number of players on the Injured Reserve. Unfortunately, that is one area on a football team where you do not want depth. The Giants announced today that DE Justin Tuck will miss the remainder of the season to undergo surgery on his foot. He has not officially been placed on IR, but should be in the immediate future. Tuck provided great depth on the defensive line and performed well on special teams.
In other injury news, General Manager Ernie Accorsi said LT Luke Petitgout will not be placed on IR. The Giants are optimistic that he could return at the end of the season. Accorsi claimed Petitgout is a quick healer and should be available in six weeks. The way Bob Whitfield has been playing, fans can only pray for a quick recovery. The much maligned Petitgout had cut down his penalties this year and performed admirably protecting Manning's blindside. Whitfield had been considered a capable backup, but struggles in consecutive weeks with Mario Williams and Alex Brown would suggest otherwise. There has been talk of shifting Rich Seubert inside and moving David Diehl out to tackle. It would be ashame to halt Diehl's progress at guard, be has the size and quickness to move outside. He's made the transition before and handled himself well at tackle. Another option that has not been discussed is simply inserting Seubert at left tackle. He's been a career interior lineman, but the Giants have used him as a second blocking tight end for most of this year. It's not unreasonable to think he could handle an outside rusher, but obviously management would have a better idea about this. The Giants also have fourth round selection Guy Whimper who was presumed to be the heir apparent to the LT position, but he is too raw and inexperienced to throw in to a playoff race. With Tyson Smith's promotion to the 53 man roster the Giants added T Jonathan Scott to the practice squad, but it is highly unlikely he would be an option.
With all of the injuries the Giants have suffered it is hard not to reflect on the big buzz out of training camp: this was not a typical Tom Coughlin camp. Everyone was raving about the softer, more laid back Coughlin and a less strenuous workout schedule. However, many injuries can be blamed on lack of conditioning. Obviously accidents such as a Bears defensive lineman rolling over Petitgout's leg can not be attributed to stamina, but it certainly seems to be an alarming trend after a relaxed camp. The Giants are on the verge of being destroyed by their growing list of walking wounded and it seems that more people should be held accountable.
In other injury news, General Manager Ernie Accorsi said LT Luke Petitgout will not be placed on IR. The Giants are optimistic that he could return at the end of the season. Accorsi claimed Petitgout is a quick healer and should be available in six weeks. The way Bob Whitfield has been playing, fans can only pray for a quick recovery. The much maligned Petitgout had cut down his penalties this year and performed admirably protecting Manning's blindside. Whitfield had been considered a capable backup, but struggles in consecutive weeks with Mario Williams and Alex Brown would suggest otherwise. There has been talk of shifting Rich Seubert inside and moving David Diehl out to tackle. It would be ashame to halt Diehl's progress at guard, be has the size and quickness to move outside. He's made the transition before and handled himself well at tackle. Another option that has not been discussed is simply inserting Seubert at left tackle. He's been a career interior lineman, but the Giants have used him as a second blocking tight end for most of this year. It's not unreasonable to think he could handle an outside rusher, but obviously management would have a better idea about this. The Giants also have fourth round selection Guy Whimper who was presumed to be the heir apparent to the LT position, but he is too raw and inexperienced to throw in to a playoff race. With Tyson Smith's promotion to the 53 man roster the Giants added T Jonathan Scott to the practice squad, but it is highly unlikely he would be an option.
With all of the injuries the Giants have suffered it is hard not to reflect on the big buzz out of training camp: this was not a typical Tom Coughlin camp. Everyone was raving about the softer, more laid back Coughlin and a less strenuous workout schedule. However, many injuries can be blamed on lack of conditioning. Obviously accidents such as a Bears defensive lineman rolling over Petitgout's leg can not be attributed to stamina, but it certainly seems to be an alarming trend after a relaxed camp. The Giants are on the verge of being destroyed by their growing list of walking wounded and it seems that more people should be held accountable.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Boston Wins Rights To Negotiate With Matsuzaka
On Tuesday evening MLB officials confirmed that the Boston Red Sox posted the highest bid to the Seibu Lions for the rights to negotiate with prized pitching ace Daisuke Matsuzaka. The winning bid exceeded earlier reports and is reported at $51.1 million dollars. For those counting at home, this is roughly $40 million more than the Seattle Mariners spent to acquire the rights to negotiate with Ichiro Suzuki. Everyone seems to think Boston will come to an agreement with Matsuzaka and it was Major League Baseball's duty to make sure no "block bids' were made. However, I find it unfathomable that the two sides will agree to a deal after such an exorbinant bidder's fee.
Now that the price has been confirmed, start crunching some numbers. To make the math as simple as possible, assume Boston looks to sign Matsuzaka to a 5 year deal at roughly $13 million annually. If you tack on the $10 million per year to include the bidder's fee, this relatively unproven commodity is being given Alex Rodriguez money at $23 million per year. There's all this talk about his infamous "gyroball" which the pitcher himself denounces as true. Regardless, Clemens' proven Mr. Splitty is worth about $22 million and Rick "Wild Thing" Vaughn's terminator was valued at even less. The only way this deal works is if Boras will accept a deal for significantly less than he thinks his client is worth.
Many people are scratching their heads at Boston's decision to break the bank. The major reasons that have been given are expanding their brand to the Far East and blocking the Yankees from making the deal. However, as has been pointed out, they shouldn't expect to profit from this move in the same ways the Yankees and Mariners have with their acquisitions of Hideki Matsui and Ichiro Suzuki respectively. Fenway doesn't have the available space in the ballpark for the massive Japanese advertising campaign the Yankees have run, and Seattle's proximity to the Far East makes pledging allegiances to the Mariners much easier. If the anonymous bidding system continues, there's no way to "mark your territorry" so making a signing or two does not make you a favorite in the future. Teams did this in the earlier years with the influx of Latin American talent, but that is made irrelevant with the posting system. In terms of blocking the Yankees, they have succeeded. With the sole negotiating rights, as long as Boston makes a "fair" offer the Yankees have absolutely no chance of adding Matsuzaka to their 2007 roster.
To be fair, Boston does have the money to spend. They're looking to upgrade their pitching staff and GM Theo Epstein knows he needs to win this year for job security. With the high bidding fee, Boras will be forced to accept less money for his client. Matsuzaka will be under intense pressure from the Seibu Lions, his current team, so they can pocket the $51.1 million they desperately need. While Boras has urged his amateur clients to sit out a year to improve their first paycheck, it seems less likely he will allow Matsuzaka to wait until he becomes unrestricted in 2007. Since Boras will undoubtedly have to take less money for his client than he would hope, he'll probably target a short term deal. However, the shorter the length of the contract, the more the team is spending per year on its bidding fee. This is sure to complicate the negotiation process and the deal should be in no way considered imminent. With Boras aiming to set a high standard for free agent pitchers with prominent client Barry Zito hitting the market, I don't expect him to accept a low-ball offer. The 30-day window given to broker a deal should be an interesting one. I still strongly believe Matsuzaka will not become a Red Sox, but stranger things have happened. If he does come to the states, Yankees fans are surely hoping for the second coming of Hideki Irabu.
Now that the price has been confirmed, start crunching some numbers. To make the math as simple as possible, assume Boston looks to sign Matsuzaka to a 5 year deal at roughly $13 million annually. If you tack on the $10 million per year to include the bidder's fee, this relatively unproven commodity is being given Alex Rodriguez money at $23 million per year. There's all this talk about his infamous "gyroball" which the pitcher himself denounces as true. Regardless, Clemens' proven Mr. Splitty is worth about $22 million and Rick "Wild Thing" Vaughn's terminator was valued at even less. The only way this deal works is if Boras will accept a deal for significantly less than he thinks his client is worth.
Many people are scratching their heads at Boston's decision to break the bank. The major reasons that have been given are expanding their brand to the Far East and blocking the Yankees from making the deal. However, as has been pointed out, they shouldn't expect to profit from this move in the same ways the Yankees and Mariners have with their acquisitions of Hideki Matsui and Ichiro Suzuki respectively. Fenway doesn't have the available space in the ballpark for the massive Japanese advertising campaign the Yankees have run, and Seattle's proximity to the Far East makes pledging allegiances to the Mariners much easier. If the anonymous bidding system continues, there's no way to "mark your territorry" so making a signing or two does not make you a favorite in the future. Teams did this in the earlier years with the influx of Latin American talent, but that is made irrelevant with the posting system. In terms of blocking the Yankees, they have succeeded. With the sole negotiating rights, as long as Boston makes a "fair" offer the Yankees have absolutely no chance of adding Matsuzaka to their 2007 roster.
To be fair, Boston does have the money to spend. They're looking to upgrade their pitching staff and GM Theo Epstein knows he needs to win this year for job security. With the high bidding fee, Boras will be forced to accept less money for his client. Matsuzaka will be under intense pressure from the Seibu Lions, his current team, so they can pocket the $51.1 million they desperately need. While Boras has urged his amateur clients to sit out a year to improve their first paycheck, it seems less likely he will allow Matsuzaka to wait until he becomes unrestricted in 2007. Since Boras will undoubtedly have to take less money for his client than he would hope, he'll probably target a short term deal. However, the shorter the length of the contract, the more the team is spending per year on its bidding fee. This is sure to complicate the negotiation process and the deal should be in no way considered imminent. With Boras aiming to set a high standard for free agent pitchers with prominent client Barry Zito hitting the market, I don't expect him to accept a low-ball offer. The 30-day window given to broker a deal should be an interesting one. I still strongly believe Matsuzaka will not become a Red Sox, but stranger things have happened. If he does come to the states, Yankees fans are surely hoping for the second coming of Hideki Irabu.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Sheff Cooking Up Trouble
Only in sports can you find a man so unhappy with making $13 million dollars in one year that he vows to make life difficult on any owner with the audacity to sign his paychecks. Welcome to the sick and twisted world of the Yankees soon to be departed star Gary Sheffield. After the Boss wined and dined the slugger personally, the Yankees signed Sheffield to a 3 year deal with an option year tacked on. After 2 successful years and one injury plagued campaign, the rocket-armed rightfielder is furious the team exercised the option. He has captured the media's attention with his recent rant that targeted Bobby Abreu and presumably Brian Cashman.
Much has been made about Sheffield's unhappiness in the offseason. First he complained about being moved to first base; a move that just a few weeks earlier he claimed to embrace. Once people began to speculate about his future with the team, he announced the team shouldn't pick up his option. When it became evident the Yankees would exercise the option, he made it clear that any team that wished to trade for him would be getting a disgruntled player. Up to that point, it was just Gary being Gary. This is not an unusual charade for him, he's always been perceived as selfish. He tried to erase that image by playing through pain his first two years to win the hearts of many Yankees fans, but his last tirade should close the door on his stay in New York. The fact is, he may be right that he's a better right fielder than Bobby Abreu and that certain Yankees executives are blocking him from speaking to George Steinbrenner. However, it does not change the fact that he is not the best option in the position he wants to play. Abreu has proven to be a terrific fit in the lineup, he can not be moved with the same ease Sheff can, and can give more good years to the organization. Whether or not "middle men" such as Brian Cashman are not allowing communication between Sheffield and Steinbrenner is relatively unimportant. Steinbrenner has been giving more power to his baseball people such as Cash and really shouldn't play a role in this drama.
In response to Sheffield's comments Brian Cashman took the high road with no comments, but team President Randy Levine took the bait. He addressed Sheffield's issues with the team and adamantly emphasized a very important piece of information: Gary Sheffield has no leverage. He does not have a no-trade clause, so anything the organization wishes to do with him they may. His ploy to try and dissuade teams from pursuing him with claims that he'll be unhappy should have very little effect on the market. He even went so far as to name destinations he would be happy with as if to draw interest from those teams, but the Yankees will only be looking for the best ways to improve the ball club. Yankee fans will have to respect the hard work he put in, but it will be hard to overlook how bitter the break-up is going. There is absolutely no way the Yankees can hold on to this guy after his disparaging remarks. A Yankee fan can only hope that his bitter feelings towards Yankees brass and his ferocious swing are shipped to a NL team.
Much has been made about Sheffield's unhappiness in the offseason. First he complained about being moved to first base; a move that just a few weeks earlier he claimed to embrace. Once people began to speculate about his future with the team, he announced the team shouldn't pick up his option. When it became evident the Yankees would exercise the option, he made it clear that any team that wished to trade for him would be getting a disgruntled player. Up to that point, it was just Gary being Gary. This is not an unusual charade for him, he's always been perceived as selfish. He tried to erase that image by playing through pain his first two years to win the hearts of many Yankees fans, but his last tirade should close the door on his stay in New York. The fact is, he may be right that he's a better right fielder than Bobby Abreu and that certain Yankees executives are blocking him from speaking to George Steinbrenner. However, it does not change the fact that he is not the best option in the position he wants to play. Abreu has proven to be a terrific fit in the lineup, he can not be moved with the same ease Sheff can, and can give more good years to the organization. Whether or not "middle men" such as Brian Cashman are not allowing communication between Sheffield and Steinbrenner is relatively unimportant. Steinbrenner has been giving more power to his baseball people such as Cash and really shouldn't play a role in this drama.
In response to Sheffield's comments Brian Cashman took the high road with no comments, but team President Randy Levine took the bait. He addressed Sheffield's issues with the team and adamantly emphasized a very important piece of information: Gary Sheffield has no leverage. He does not have a no-trade clause, so anything the organization wishes to do with him they may. His ploy to try and dissuade teams from pursuing him with claims that he'll be unhappy should have very little effect on the market. He even went so far as to name destinations he would be happy with as if to draw interest from those teams, but the Yankees will only be looking for the best ways to improve the ball club. Yankee fans will have to respect the hard work he put in, but it will be hard to overlook how bitter the break-up is going. There is absolutely no way the Yankees can hold on to this guy after his disparaging remarks. A Yankee fan can only hope that his bitter feelings towards Yankees brass and his ferocious swing are shipped to a NL team.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Another One Bites The Dust; Toomer lost for '06
Just when Giants fans thought the injury situation couldn't get worse, the team announced WR Amani Toomer will miss the remainder of the season with a partially torn ACL. The news seemed to come as an absolute shock as Toomer returned to the field on Sunday after he experienced pain in the knee. While it is only a partial tear, which meant Toomer could have elected to rehab the knee over surgery, he opted for the procedure that will sideline him until 2007. Toomer's 32 receptions on the year are tied for the team lead and his ability to make clutch plays will be sorely missed. As a long time fan of number 81, we are all hoping for a full recovery so he can add to his many Giants receiving records.
If there is any silver lining to this, second round draft pick Sinorice Moss returned to practice today and hopefully will return to the lineup on Sunday. If he can play up to his lofty draft status, he should be one of several players that need to step up in Toomer's absence. Although Toomer's loss should in no way be undervalued, the Giants have won despite losses to their receiving corps in the past. The 2002 Giants, that gelled in to an impressive offensive unit that put up 38 points in a playoff game, were down to Toomer and 7th round draft pick Daryl Jones. There are guys behind Toomer on this year's depth chart, and maybe outside options that could help the Giants survive this injury:
Tim Carter: The #2 wideout position should be his to lose. The Giants 2nd round pick in 2002 has never lived up to expectations. However, he has stayed healthier this year and could be a major weapon with his downfield speed. It is disconcerting that he failed to come up big against an overmatched Texans secondary this weekend, but he should be given every opportunity to fill the void. He has big-play ability, good size, and a good knowledge of this offense.
Sinorice Moss: General Manager Ernie Accorsi traded up to obtain the rights to the former Miami star in the 2006 draft. The organization has high hopes for the diminutive speedster and younger brother of Giant rival Santana Moss. He has only seen the field in one game this year, tallying one catch for four yards. Moss has been hampered by a quadricep injury he suffered at the NFL Combine in February. Widely considered as a top 3 receiver in this year's draft class, and by many as number one, Moss' big play ability would be a tremendous addition to the offense. Like Carter, should be given ample opportunity for additional reps.
Michael Jennings: Jennings has made the most of his oppotunities since his surprise addition to the 53 man roster out of training camp. The flashy, former track star from Florida State had no previous NFL experience but showed a knack for making big plays in the preseason. He has been used in many of the ways Giants fans expected Moss to be used, with short passes and some end-arounds. Outproduced Tim Carter in last week's 14-10 win over the Texans, but will probably remain lower on the depth chart.
David Tyree: The Giants special teams ace has battled injuries all year and the organization seems content with maintaining his current role. When given extended time as a receiver, Tyree has been impressive. In last season's finale against the Cowboys he lead the team in receptions and scored a touchdown. When Burress missed the second half of the Seahawks game, Tyree again became the main target. He does not possess the speed of Carter, Moss, or Jennings, but he may be more willing to make tough catches in traffic. He would be a good fit as a possession receiver, but it does not seem likely they would risk tiring him out on offense with his special teams prowess.
Anthony Mix: Mix is currently on the Giants practice squad, but spent the entire offseason with Big Blue. He impressed coaches and executives with his stellar play in spring mini-camps, but did not see a lot of action in the preseason. Unlike the receivers on the current roster, he has great size. Listed at 6'5'', it came as a shock to many prognosticators that Mix went undrafted in the 2006 draft out of Auburn. However, it seems unlikely with all the injuries on defense that the team would promote another Wide Receiver. If they do decide to add a receiver, Mix could be an intriguing option.
Charles Rogers: Admittedly, this one is a huge stretch. As previously mentioned, I do not envision the Giants adding a receiver to the roster. However, why not give this guy a look? I'd be remissed, and certainly abused by my college roommate, if I did not mention that his commercials alone warrant him getting a look. We all know his college stats, he's Charles Rogers, he had 68 catches and 13 touchdowns. He showed promise in the NFL before missing time with various injuries and could rejuvenate his career in a new environment. The chance to play for a Super Bowl contender could bring out the best in the former #2 overall pick in the draft. Also, playing alongside fellow Michigan State Alum Plaxico Burress could be a terrific opportunity.
If there is any silver lining to this, second round draft pick Sinorice Moss returned to practice today and hopefully will return to the lineup on Sunday. If he can play up to his lofty draft status, he should be one of several players that need to step up in Toomer's absence. Although Toomer's loss should in no way be undervalued, the Giants have won despite losses to their receiving corps in the past. The 2002 Giants, that gelled in to an impressive offensive unit that put up 38 points in a playoff game, were down to Toomer and 7th round draft pick Daryl Jones. There are guys behind Toomer on this year's depth chart, and maybe outside options that could help the Giants survive this injury:
Tim Carter: The #2 wideout position should be his to lose. The Giants 2nd round pick in 2002 has never lived up to expectations. However, he has stayed healthier this year and could be a major weapon with his downfield speed. It is disconcerting that he failed to come up big against an overmatched Texans secondary this weekend, but he should be given every opportunity to fill the void. He has big-play ability, good size, and a good knowledge of this offense.
Sinorice Moss: General Manager Ernie Accorsi traded up to obtain the rights to the former Miami star in the 2006 draft. The organization has high hopes for the diminutive speedster and younger brother of Giant rival Santana Moss. He has only seen the field in one game this year, tallying one catch for four yards. Moss has been hampered by a quadricep injury he suffered at the NFL Combine in February. Widely considered as a top 3 receiver in this year's draft class, and by many as number one, Moss' big play ability would be a tremendous addition to the offense. Like Carter, should be given ample opportunity for additional reps.
Michael Jennings: Jennings has made the most of his oppotunities since his surprise addition to the 53 man roster out of training camp. The flashy, former track star from Florida State had no previous NFL experience but showed a knack for making big plays in the preseason. He has been used in many of the ways Giants fans expected Moss to be used, with short passes and some end-arounds. Outproduced Tim Carter in last week's 14-10 win over the Texans, but will probably remain lower on the depth chart.
David Tyree: The Giants special teams ace has battled injuries all year and the organization seems content with maintaining his current role. When given extended time as a receiver, Tyree has been impressive. In last season's finale against the Cowboys he lead the team in receptions and scored a touchdown. When Burress missed the second half of the Seahawks game, Tyree again became the main target. He does not possess the speed of Carter, Moss, or Jennings, but he may be more willing to make tough catches in traffic. He would be a good fit as a possession receiver, but it does not seem likely they would risk tiring him out on offense with his special teams prowess.
Anthony Mix: Mix is currently on the Giants practice squad, but spent the entire offseason with Big Blue. He impressed coaches and executives with his stellar play in spring mini-camps, but did not see a lot of action in the preseason. Unlike the receivers on the current roster, he has great size. Listed at 6'5'', it came as a shock to many prognosticators that Mix went undrafted in the 2006 draft out of Auburn. However, it seems unlikely with all the injuries on defense that the team would promote another Wide Receiver. If they do decide to add a receiver, Mix could be an intriguing option.
Charles Rogers: Admittedly, this one is a huge stretch. As previously mentioned, I do not envision the Giants adding a receiver to the roster. However, why not give this guy a look? I'd be remissed, and certainly abused by my college roommate, if I did not mention that his commercials alone warrant him getting a look. We all know his college stats, he's Charles Rogers, he had 68 catches and 13 touchdowns. He showed promise in the NFL before missing time with various injuries and could rejuvenate his career in a new environment. The chance to play for a Super Bowl contender could bring out the best in the former #2 overall pick in the draft. Also, playing alongside fellow Michigan State Alum Plaxico Burress could be a terrific opportunity.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Ocho Cinco owes Five Grand
The "No Fun League" has again lashed out at its most colorful entertainer, fining Cincinnati Bengals star Chad Johnson $5,000 for wearing a velcro name plate on the back of his uniform that read Ocho Cinco. The name only appeared during pre-game warmups and was ceremoniously ripped off prior to kickoff by Carson Palmer. Johnson plans to appeal, and Roger Goodell needs to rip up that fine slip. Now more than ever, pro sports are seen as entertainment. Commissioners need to have a firm grasp of this and learn to let players be themselves so long as it does not have adverse affects on the game.
Stunts like "Ocho Cinco" do absolutely no harm for the league except when front office members over-react and issue fines. Players such as Johnson are simply conveying how lucky they are to be doing what they love for a living. Ocho Cinco's determination to take down DeAngelo Hall created more buzz than a normal interconference game would have made. Luckily, Johnson seems unfazed. He has already issued a warning for Ray Lewis: I'm going to hit him in the mouth. Who doesn't want to turn in to see the league's toughest player give Johnson exactly what he's asking for? The league is taking too many steps to alienate the common fan. I whole heartedly objected to the virtual elimination of end zone dances and find this recent action against Johnson even more absurd. If a player, such as "the player" in Dallas, brings negative attention to the league by all means dent their wallet. But to continuously come down on a player who does nothing but keeps fans on the edge of their seats is totally wrong.
Stunts like "Ocho Cinco" do absolutely no harm for the league except when front office members over-react and issue fines. Players such as Johnson are simply conveying how lucky they are to be doing what they love for a living. Ocho Cinco's determination to take down DeAngelo Hall created more buzz than a normal interconference game would have made. Luckily, Johnson seems unfazed. He has already issued a warning for Ray Lewis: I'm going to hit him in the mouth. Who doesn't want to turn in to see the league's toughest player give Johnson exactly what he's asking for? The league is taking too many steps to alienate the common fan. I whole heartedly objected to the virtual elimination of end zone dances and find this recent action against Johnson even more absurd. If a player, such as "the player" in Dallas, brings negative attention to the league by all means dent their wallet. But to continuously come down on a player who does nothing but keeps fans on the edge of their seats is totally wrong.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
New "Whining" Rule Ruining Pace of the Game
As David Stern continues to try and clean up his league, he's managed to break the old adage "if it aint broke, dont fix it". Stern's new initiative of stopping players from complaining has proven to be a horrible distraction through the early action. In last night's action several players received multiple technicals and ejections due to the new rule, including high profile players such as Mike Bibby and Rasheed Wallace. While the latter is no surprise as many have dubbed the new legislation as the "Sheed Rule", many other players picked up technicals as the referees strictly enforced the rule.
While I certainly agree that after a certain level of complaining about a call a player should receive a technical, but the way they're being handed out now is ruining the tempo of the game. In the Knicks game guards Stephon Marbury and Nate Robinson each picked up technicals for voicing their displeasure, and rightfully so due to the language of the new rule. However, both were away from the play and did nothing that warranted such a harsh penalty. If this continues to be called with such frequency teams are going to lose players at an alarming rate and the length of the games will be extended unnecessarily. It interrupts the flow of play and players can't be held to such high standards. Forty somethings in local YMCA's can't even keep their mouth shut after some slight contact in a game, how is it fair to expect players absorbing a lot of contact not to ask for a call. Emotions are a huge part of any sport. Asking players to curtail their complaining is one thing, demanding they do not even give the slightest knee jerk reaction is another. The Commissioner's office claims theres a "heat of the moment" clause, but the way it's been called so far has been detrimental to the game.
While I certainly agree that after a certain level of complaining about a call a player should receive a technical, but the way they're being handed out now is ruining the tempo of the game. In the Knicks game guards Stephon Marbury and Nate Robinson each picked up technicals for voicing their displeasure, and rightfully so due to the language of the new rule. However, both were away from the play and did nothing that warranted such a harsh penalty. If this continues to be called with such frequency teams are going to lose players at an alarming rate and the length of the games will be extended unnecessarily. It interrupts the flow of play and players can't be held to such high standards. Forty somethings in local YMCA's can't even keep their mouth shut after some slight contact in a game, how is it fair to expect players absorbing a lot of contact not to ask for a call. Emotions are a huge part of any sport. Asking players to curtail their complaining is one thing, demanding they do not even give the slightest knee jerk reaction is another. The Commissioner's office claims theres a "heat of the moment" clause, but the way it's been called so far has been detrimental to the game.
Knicks Win Opener in Triple OT
Coming off a 23 win campaign, New Yorkers are looking for much improved play from their beloved Knicks. While they gave their fans quite a scare by blowing a big lead, the Knicks managed to survive a triple OT road game in Memphis behind the hot shooting of Quentin Richardson. Much has been made of owner James Dolan's proclamation that coach Isiah Thomas' squad much show significant improvement for him to keep his job. For one night, they played with passion and intensity that was missing from last year's unit.
While the roster remains nearly identical, several of the players seem to be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Center Eddy Curry has been criticized for his inability to stay on the court with foul trouble and not playing to his 6'11'', 285 pound frame. In last night's win he logged 41 minutes with 17 points and 14 rebounds, a great start for the man Thomas compromised the Knicks future for. Small forward Quentin Richardson excelled from the perimeter, drilling all 5 of his three point attempts on his way to 31 points.
A few other things really stood out. First of all, the Knicks deserve a lot of credit for staying in the game early. After Mike Miller drilled his 3rd consecutive three, the Knicks were down 10 early in the game on the road. Last year's team would have packed it in, but they fought back to build a big lead which they maintained for most of the game. Second year players David Lee and Nate Robinson need to be on the floor. Lee made the most of his 30 minutes, scoring 10 points and hauling in 13 rebounds. His motor never stops and he is extremely athletic. Robinson added 14 points in just 18 minutes but still makes some questionable decisions. Regardless, he brings a lot of energy and has a knack for making big plays. The marriage of Franchise and Starbury in the back court will be a rocky one, so the Knicks will need Robinson's ability to change the pace of the game.
One of my biggest problems with last night's game was their inability to close. Not only did the sqaunder a huge lead, their "go-to guy" failed three times to make a shot. Jamal Crawford can be extremely effective coming off the bench, but why does he get the ball every time with the game on the line? I know he has demonstrated an ability to knock down the big shot, but a guy shooting 4-22 from the field should not be given every chance to close the game on that night unless he is your star. Certain athletes, for whatever reason, just don't have the make-up to ask for the ball with the game on the line. It is seen time and again in baseball when effective middle relievers are asked to close, but for some reason can't get the final three outs of a ball game. I applaud the fact Isiah sees this trait in Crawford, but he has not proven himself enough to warrant three isolation plays at the end of regulation and the first two overtime periods. Especially not when you have a guy in Richardson that missed only three shots all night. While Quentin has trouble creating his own shot, thats what you have the fleet of guards in your rotation to do for him.
While the roster remains nearly identical, several of the players seem to be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Center Eddy Curry has been criticized for his inability to stay on the court with foul trouble and not playing to his 6'11'', 285 pound frame. In last night's win he logged 41 minutes with 17 points and 14 rebounds, a great start for the man Thomas compromised the Knicks future for. Small forward Quentin Richardson excelled from the perimeter, drilling all 5 of his three point attempts on his way to 31 points.
A few other things really stood out. First of all, the Knicks deserve a lot of credit for staying in the game early. After Mike Miller drilled his 3rd consecutive three, the Knicks were down 10 early in the game on the road. Last year's team would have packed it in, but they fought back to build a big lead which they maintained for most of the game. Second year players David Lee and Nate Robinson need to be on the floor. Lee made the most of his 30 minutes, scoring 10 points and hauling in 13 rebounds. His motor never stops and he is extremely athletic. Robinson added 14 points in just 18 minutes but still makes some questionable decisions. Regardless, he brings a lot of energy and has a knack for making big plays. The marriage of Franchise and Starbury in the back court will be a rocky one, so the Knicks will need Robinson's ability to change the pace of the game.
One of my biggest problems with last night's game was their inability to close. Not only did the sqaunder a huge lead, their "go-to guy" failed three times to make a shot. Jamal Crawford can be extremely effective coming off the bench, but why does he get the ball every time with the game on the line? I know he has demonstrated an ability to knock down the big shot, but a guy shooting 4-22 from the field should not be given every chance to close the game on that night unless he is your star. Certain athletes, for whatever reason, just don't have the make-up to ask for the ball with the game on the line. It is seen time and again in baseball when effective middle relievers are asked to close, but for some reason can't get the final three outs of a ball game. I applaud the fact Isiah sees this trait in Crawford, but he has not proven himself enough to warrant three isolation plays at the end of regulation and the first two overtime periods. Especially not when you have a guy in Richardson that missed only three shots all night. While Quentin has trouble creating his own shot, thats what you have the fleet of guards in your rotation to do for him.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
The Name Game
If you happened to be listening to sports radio yesterday, you might have heard the Philadelphia Eagles reached an agreement with cornerback William James. Unless you tuned in for a little while longer, you may not have realized that James is formerly William Peterson of the New York Giants. Hoping a new name could revitalize a once promising career, the Eagles are excited about their new acquisition.
Peterson teamed with fellow '01 draft pick Will Allen to become one of the most feared CB tandems in the league. People had high hopes for the Wills, as they were dubbed, but their inability to stay healthy and hold on to the football caused optimism to fade fast. Although Allen was the first round selection, many felt Peterson's ceiling was much higher. A third round pick of the Giants in 2001, Peterson's size and coverage abilities made him a rare "shut-down" corner. A series of injuries derailed the rising star who has been out of football since 2004. The Giants finally cut ties with Peterson in the spring after they determined he needed to make a lot more progress before he could return to the field. This move could pay serious dividends for the Eagles if he can shake off the rust and stay healthy.
Peterson teamed with fellow '01 draft pick Will Allen to become one of the most feared CB tandems in the league. People had high hopes for the Wills, as they were dubbed, but their inability to stay healthy and hold on to the football caused optimism to fade fast. Although Allen was the first round selection, many felt Peterson's ceiling was much higher. A third round pick of the Giants in 2001, Peterson's size and coverage abilities made him a rare "shut-down" corner. A series of injuries derailed the rising star who has been out of football since 2004. The Giants finally cut ties with Peterson in the spring after they determined he needed to make a lot more progress before he could return to the field. This move could pay serious dividends for the Eagles if he can shake off the rust and stay healthy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
