I wasn't expecting the Sooners to come out and get beat by Colorado when I wrote that the winner of the Missouri-Nebraska affair next weekend would be 42-point underdogs to OU. I thought OU would roll all season. Maybe there's a weakness.
And the Texas goes down as well, that makes me about as happy as Mike Vick gets when he sites a bag of Tom Petty's Last Dance.
What a weekend for College Football.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Game of the Decade?
Going back as far as only five years, I'm hard pressed to remember a more important game for the Missouri Tigers than their match-up with Nebraska next weekend.
You could argue that those Independence Bowl games were more important, but were they really? What did they mean? It was the damn Independence Bowl. I actually fell asleep at halftime - at the game, in Shreveport - three years ago. The last time I saw a Missouri-Nebraska game, you can be sure as hell that I wasn't sleeping.
But, in my short tenure as a Missouri fan - which I am now more than ever - there hasn't been a game with bigger implications than next Saturday's at Faurot. The stakes are huge, and simple...the winner gets the edge in the Big 12 North. Whoever comes out on top is the early favorite for the privilege of being 42-point underdogs in the Big 12 championship game against Oklahoma.
Nebraska will be coming off a rocky last three weeks, depending on how it goes against Iowa State this weekend. Two weeks ago they took it on the chin to No.1 ranked USC 49-31, and last week they barely edged Ball State 41-40. They stand at No.25 in the most recent AP poll, five spots behind the Tigers.
Missouri, on the other hand, hasn't been legitimately tested. Oh, they've tested themselves once or twice in the second half; but they've yet to really be threatened. They've won their four games by a total of 69 points, no team getting any closer than Illinois in week 1. In the three games since, Chase Daniel has thrown for ten touchdowns and rushed for one, he's thrown for 952 yards in those three games.
Jeremy Maclin has developed into a primetime Big 12 player, fitting nicely into an absolutely explosive offense - possibly the best in the country. The Missouri defense seems to be maybe, possibly - although I hesitate in saying it - finding its place in all of this.
And although I'm not a fan of Gary Stinkel...he seems to have a knack for big games.
To say it old school, all that ranking crap gets thrown off the back of the train next Saturday. The numbers don't mean a damn thing. This is Missouri and Nebraska and the last time the Huskers marched their corn into Columbia, the goalposts were torn down, there was punches thrown between Nebraska players and Tiger fans, 21 people were arrested, at least one car - that I can remember - was trampled,
and Harpos might've made more money selling alcohol that night than George Bush did stealing oil. Expect a lot of the same. Wish I could be there. I actually turned down a chance to fly in for it. Can you believe that? If I would've known Elton John - the King of Ivory - was going to be playing at the arena formerly known as "The Paige" Friday night...I certainly wouldn't have missed it.
If I remember correctly, there's going to be a lot of college kids waking up around 8 with some pretty serious headaches...that will most likely be promptly cured by Friday's night's leftovers and a plethora of Energy drinks. They'll be bar-b-queuing cheap hotdogs and running routes in parking lots, bouncing footballs off Hummers. By gametime, 7:15 p.m., most of them will all be jacked up on Augie's best, chanting "we ain't got time for no damn 'SKERS."
They'll be waiting, impatiently waiting, to get their chance at every college football fans dream...tearing down the yellow polls and marchin their drunk asses to Harpos.
I would've been studying, of course. Months ago, a reader posted that they had visual evidence otherwise. But I'm not real sure what they're talking about.
Friday, September 21, 2007
You wanna know what I think?
You wanna know what I think about Steven Jackson?
*Go read Jason's blog about "the big three" all playing worse than two 6 year-old boys fighting over the same girl. It's just ugly, mean, and somebody's going to get hurt. Whether it hurts your fantasy team...or, as per us St. Louis fans, it actually hurts your team. Jason makes a great point about Jackson and missing O-Line Granddaddy Orlando Pace...we can't blame Jackson's pour start on Pace's absence. Last season Pace missed the last seven games and Jackson averaged 106 yards rushing per game. There goes that excuse.
You wanna know what I think about Barry Bonds not being back with the Giants next season?
*I actually care more about the latest Bill Walsh sighting than I care about whatever Barry Bonds is doing with his shortened life. I'd rather sleep in the back seat of a white 15-passenger van for the rest of my life than have to hear about Barry Bonds one more time. The attention this guy gets is out of control, it's more annoying than a soccer coach in a post-game interview telling you fifteen times or more that "we control our own destiny." And that crap is just as annoying as three four year-olds screaming in your ear for two hours straight.
What do I think about the Patriots and their spygate?
*Ask Steve Rosenbloom of Chicagosports.com: “If you cheat and win, at least you get something out of the deal, but if you’re a sleazebag and you lose, then you’re Isiah Thomas.”
Or Jay Leno: “There’s a lot of different versions of what happened (in the O.J. situation) but, luckily, Patriots coach Bill Belichick was there and videotaped the whole thing.”
And my thoughts on Tank Johnson...I couldn't agree more with Elliot Harris of the Chicago-Sun Times: “Former Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson, who is suspended for the first eight games of the season, signs with the Dallas Cowboys because the Cowboys were the first team to contact him. Well, that and possibly the impression that almost everyone in Texas shoots off firearms at home.”
On Big 12 rival Texas Longhorns, just ask Mike Bianchi, Orlando Sentinel: “Now we know why Texas players don orange jerseys, right? Because they can wear them to the game on Saturdays and to pick up roadside trash on Sundays.”
And, Scott Ostler from the San Francisco Chronicle on dumb driving: “Memo to Indiana Pacers’ forward Shawne Williams: If you’re going to drive your car with no driver’s license, expired plates, and a stash of marijuana, you might want to consider using your turn signal. It’s the little stick on the left side.”
I'm outy. Mizzou and Illinois State this weekend. Illinois State is ranked 14th in the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly I-AA). Their record is 1-2 though. I can't figure that out.
The Tigers have cracked the Top 25 in both polls, holding on to the last spot in each. Go Tigers. Go Blues. Go Rams. And..um..Go Cardinals.
*Go read Jason's blog about "the big three" all playing worse than two 6 year-old boys fighting over the same girl. It's just ugly, mean, and somebody's going to get hurt. Whether it hurts your fantasy team...or, as per us St. Louis fans, it actually hurts your team. Jason makes a great point about Jackson and missing O-Line Granddaddy Orlando Pace...we can't blame Jackson's pour start on Pace's absence. Last season Pace missed the last seven games and Jackson averaged 106 yards rushing per game. There goes that excuse.
You wanna know what I think about Barry Bonds not being back with the Giants next season?
*I actually care more about the latest Bill Walsh sighting than I care about whatever Barry Bonds is doing with his shortened life. I'd rather sleep in the back seat of a white 15-passenger van for the rest of my life than have to hear about Barry Bonds one more time. The attention this guy gets is out of control, it's more annoying than a soccer coach in a post-game interview telling you fifteen times or more that "we control our own destiny." And that crap is just as annoying as three four year-olds screaming in your ear for two hours straight.
What do I think about the Patriots and their spygate?
*Ask Steve Rosenbloom of Chicagosports.com: “If you cheat and win, at least you get something out of the deal, but if you’re a sleazebag and you lose, then you’re Isiah Thomas.”
Or Jay Leno: “There’s a lot of different versions of what happened (in the O.J. situation) but, luckily, Patriots coach Bill Belichick was there and videotaped the whole thing.”
And my thoughts on Tank Johnson...I couldn't agree more with Elliot Harris of the Chicago-Sun Times: “Former Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson, who is suspended for the first eight games of the season, signs with the Dallas Cowboys because the Cowboys were the first team to contact him. Well, that and possibly the impression that almost everyone in Texas shoots off firearms at home.”
On Big 12 rival Texas Longhorns, just ask Mike Bianchi, Orlando Sentinel: “Now we know why Texas players don orange jerseys, right? Because they can wear them to the game on Saturdays and to pick up roadside trash on Sundays.”
And, Scott Ostler from the San Francisco Chronicle on dumb driving: “Memo to Indiana Pacers’ forward Shawne Williams: If you’re going to drive your car with no driver’s license, expired plates, and a stash of marijuana, you might want to consider using your turn signal. It’s the little stick on the left side.”
I'm outy. Mizzou and Illinois State this weekend. Illinois State is ranked 14th in the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly I-AA). Their record is 1-2 though. I can't figure that out.
The Tigers have cracked the Top 25 in both polls, holding on to the last spot in each. Go Tigers. Go Blues. Go Rams. And..um..Go Cardinals.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Rams, Cardinals, and Puke...Oh my!
The Rams are 0-2...for the season...and at home. The Cardinals have won one game in their last twelve. And I throw up in my mouth a little bit every time I watch either of them.
Last night looked promising...didn't it? Sitting at the Ballpark Pub having a few friendly Budweiser's and watching Monday Night Football. Charles Barkley...of all people...announced that the Phillies had blown an 11-run lead.
My heart jumped...this was the turnaround - the motivation - that we needed. We were set to make another run, and this time we would finish. And about the time I had convinced my cousin Butch that it was true and real this time...ESPN came on with a game update and we saw Ryan Howard blast a two run job into the yard. Bullshit.
Am I giving up? Well...I can't. Mainly because it seems like all I ever do is blast St. Louis fans for being bandwagoners. But, for crying out loud, if you haven't given up hope yet, then hope must vanish around the next corner. This season just doesn't have the same feeling as the last one. I don't get the sense that this team can pull it together and make the playoffs, much less make a run if they get there.
The truth is that between opening day and today...this is a rebuilt team. Without their ace staffer. Their opening day second basemen, third basemen, right fielder, and center fielder are no guarantees to get the start.
Bottom Line: It's tough to win ballgames when things get that weird.
***As for the Rams. Well, word out of St. Louis - as per Bernie Miklasz and Jeff Gordon's online columns - is that Scott Linehan is on the hot seat already. Fans apparently are calling for a mid-season Jim Haslett call-up (which is weird...considering our defense sucks), or a possible Marty Schottenheimer return, and even...hold your breathe...a mad Mike Martz return.
No word yet on whether or not Ram fans are rooting for Lawrence Phillips and Tony Banks to come back and spearhead the offense.
What this team needs is a conductor. Somebody to teach the defense that missing 17 tackles on fourth and one is unacceptable. Somebody to teach the offense that Marc Bulger isn't a punching bag that's going to last forever. Somebody to conduct this team just as fine as Richard Dreyfus once conducted his opus. Right now, they look like 50 cent trying to conduct a Bach concert. Yet...they don't look as bad as the Cardinals. Your fat neighbor doesn't even look as bad as the Cardinals.
I damn near stepped in corn and pepperoni ridden bear poop today. And that didn't look as bad as the Cardinals.
A naked picture of Rosanne getting it on with Dan doesn't look as bad as the Cardinals.
The sounds my cousin Paul makes when he gets out of bed in the morning aren't even as bad as watching the Cardinals.
Right now...it's sad, real sad...but I'd rather stare at a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on than watching the Cardinals try to pitch and the Rams try to tackle.
Let's hope next week is better. I don't think it can be worse.
It's a damn good thing Britney Spears is keeping us entertained with her hapless, no-good, no-hearted, and absolutely pathetic attempt at being sexy during the VMA's last week.
Even having to look at her fat, shapeless body dressed in nothing but ugly underwear that made her face look fat was better than watching the Cardinals. In fact, I watched her performance seven times on youtube. I've only watched the Cardinals once in the last 15 days.
Dear Abby,
Am I even a fan anymore?
Sincerely,
Major Hypocrite and Heartless Moaner
Last night looked promising...didn't it? Sitting at the Ballpark Pub having a few friendly Budweiser's and watching Monday Night Football. Charles Barkley...of all people...announced that the Phillies had blown an 11-run lead.
My heart jumped...this was the turnaround - the motivation - that we needed. We were set to make another run, and this time we would finish. And about the time I had convinced my cousin Butch that it was true and real this time...ESPN came on with a game update and we saw Ryan Howard blast a two run job into the yard. Bullshit. Am I giving up? Well...I can't. Mainly because it seems like all I ever do is blast St. Louis fans for being bandwagoners. But, for crying out loud, if you haven't given up hope yet, then hope must vanish around the next corner. This season just doesn't have the same feeling as the last one. I don't get the sense that this team can pull it together and make the playoffs, much less make a run if they get there.
The truth is that between opening day and today...this is a rebuilt team. Without their ace staffer. Their opening day second basemen, third basemen, right fielder, and center fielder are no guarantees to get the start.
Bottom Line: It's tough to win ballgames when things get that weird.
***As for the Rams. Well, word out of St. Louis - as per Bernie Miklasz and Jeff Gordon's online columns - is that Scott Linehan is on the hot seat already. Fans apparently are calling for a mid-season Jim Haslett call-up (which is weird...considering our defense sucks), or a possible Marty Schottenheimer return, and even...hold your breathe...a mad Mike Martz return.
No word yet on whether or not Ram fans are rooting for Lawrence Phillips and Tony Banks to come back and spearhead the offense. What this team needs is a conductor. Somebody to teach the defense that missing 17 tackles on fourth and one is unacceptable. Somebody to teach the offense that Marc Bulger isn't a punching bag that's going to last forever. Somebody to conduct this team just as fine as Richard Dreyfus once conducted his opus. Right now, they look like 50 cent trying to conduct a Bach concert. Yet...they don't look as bad as the Cardinals. Your fat neighbor doesn't even look as bad as the Cardinals.
I damn near stepped in corn and pepperoni ridden bear poop today. And that didn't look as bad as the Cardinals.
A naked picture of Rosanne getting it on with Dan doesn't look as bad as the Cardinals.
The sounds my cousin Paul makes when he gets out of bed in the morning aren't even as bad as watching the Cardinals.
Right now...it's sad, real sad...but I'd rather stare at a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on than watching the Cardinals try to pitch and the Rams try to tackle.
Let's hope next week is better. I don't think it can be worse.
It's a damn good thing Britney Spears is keeping us entertained with her hapless, no-good, no-hearted, and absolutely pathetic attempt at being sexy during the VMA's last week.
Even having to look at her fat, shapeless body dressed in nothing but ugly underwear that made her face look fat was better than watching the Cardinals. In fact, I watched her performance seven times on youtube. I've only watched the Cardinals once in the last 15 days. Dear Abby,
Am I even a fan anymore?
Sincerely,
Major Hypocrite and Heartless Moaner
Saturday, September 15, 2007
1,2,3,4....A Weekend of Goods in Missouri
The most exciting thing about this weekend is the Tour of Missouri rounding out the first of it's many future stops in St. Louis. The second most exciting thing about this weekend is the fact that Missouri's offense continues to look more and more impressive. Third, the fact that the Cardinals could potentially win a game against the Cubs, snapping a (as I write - between doubleheader games at Busch) nine game losing streak. It seems we haven't won in ages, so a win would feel as good as a sex addict finally getting the proper fix after two months in the Big House. And fourth and foremost is a Rams game at home.
***Starting at the top, I'll continue to simply urge you to make the trek to the Big City tomorrow and watch the finish of the Tour of Missouri. As I've said before, getting the chance to see world class athletes up close like this is a rare opportunity. This isn't baseball or football, where you see the world class athletes but, in reality, they're so distant from you that they feel like immortal souls. The sport of cycling seems to be a bit different, although I can't go on a paragraph bash about how cycling stands out because it's so much cleaner and is littered with less cheats than the big sports....because we all know it isn't. But what I can do, enlisting my experience in the Durango area and being surrounded by world-class cyclists as evidence, is suggest that these athletes are much less corrupted - all in all - from the spotlight of being a world class athlete. If you get the chance, mingle with them - something you can't do with pro football, baseball, or basketball players, and learn for yourself.
These guys work harder than most athletes, and they seem to be a hell of a lot nicer too. Go show them your respect.
Here's a Race Update from the St. Louis Post Dispatch, following Saturday's finish:
"Danny Pate of Colorado Springs, Colo., rode to a solo stage win and George Hincapie of Greenville, S.C., kept his race lead for the fourth day Saturday in stage 5 of the Tour of Missouri.
Pate (Team Slipstream), a former junior world time trial champion, escaped from two other riders to claim the 126.8-mile Jefferson City to St. Charles road race in 4 hours, 50 minutes and 21 seconds.
John Fredy Parra (Tecos de la Universidad) of Colombia was second, and Jeff Louder (Health-Net) of Salt Lake City was third, both eight seconds behind Pate. Hincapie (Discovery Channel), who assumed the lead after winning stage 2, finished 25th in the main field, 2:26 behind the stage winner.
Pate maintained his 1 minute, 40-second race advantage over William Frischkorn of Boulder, Colo. David Canada (Prodir-Saunier Duval) of Spain is third overall, trailing by 2:22, with Dominique Rollin of Canada fourth, trailing by 2:23."
***Secondly, Missouri's offense seems to be untouchable right now. Two touchdown passes and a TD run for Chase Daniel adds to his impressive and ever growing eleven touchdowns over the course of the squad's first three games. Adding to West Michigan's trouble this week was wide receiver Jeremy Maclin's 275 yards of total offense (96 yards receiving, 52 yards rushing, 96 returning kickoffs, and 31 yards returning punts). "He obviously had a great day catching the football and on punt returns and kickoff returns," Mizzou coach Gary Pinkel said. "We find different ways to get him the ball because he can make things happen. He's just got to keep working harder, which he will. He's a great young man. He can do a lot of things to change a game fast." The Tigers were 23rd in total offense going into this week, ranked in the top ten in both passing and receiving. I would imagine that those stats only got better.
If you cut out the early second half collapses, which have allowed Illinois, Ole Miss, and West Michigan to make scary attempts at comebacks, we have to like what we're seeing out of the Tigers right now. "We take each game one week at a time, and it was all about coming out and dominating today," MU defensive lineman Lorenzo Williams said. Yeah...well, let's try dominating for an entire game, instead of just half of a game.
Elsewhere in the Big 12, Oklahoma looks damn near unbeatable and Nebraska will get a true test tonight against the Booty-led USC Trojans. The Sooners have won their first three games by 158 points - the most dominant start to a season since the Sooners outscored their opponents 169-6 in 1972. But as it stands, Mizzou is holding its own and things are looking good on the home front for now. Once Big 12 play starts, things could go another direction. We shall see....
***When it comes to the Cardinals and deprived sex addicts...everybody's just depressed. Seriously, winning a game would feel like a junkie or an addict...of any kind....getting a long awaited fix. I don't even like talking about this.
NEXT.
The Rams take on the Gold Miners at home this weekend. Division game. Huge rivalry. Two of the most exciting running backs in the game. A young and upcoming quarterback vs. a savvy veteran. Two teams nobody has any clue if they're going to be great or absolute trash. It's got THRILLER written all over it.
or
The 49ers could absolutely roll over a one week old but terribly depleted, aching, and probably completely atrocious offensive line, leading to a SF rout. Let's hope for the classic. But without Pace and Steussie, the Rams are going to have be magical to knock of Frank Gore and the boys.
*for info on fantasy football teams and players this week, check out Jason's blog.
Here's to hoping the Cardinals win, the Rams win, and you get off the couch and go watch some bike racing tomorrow. As for me, well, I'll figure something out.
***Starting at the top, I'll continue to simply urge you to make the trek to the Big City tomorrow and watch the finish of the Tour of Missouri. As I've said before, getting the chance to see world class athletes up close like this is a rare opportunity. This isn't baseball or football, where you see the world class athletes but, in reality, they're so distant from you that they feel like immortal souls. The sport of cycling seems to be a bit different, although I can't go on a paragraph bash about how cycling stands out because it's so much cleaner and is littered with less cheats than the big sports....because we all know it isn't. But what I can do, enlisting my experience in the Durango area and being surrounded by world-class cyclists as evidence, is suggest that these athletes are much less corrupted - all in all - from the spotlight of being a world class athlete. If you get the chance, mingle with them - something you can't do with pro football, baseball, or basketball players, and learn for yourself.
These guys work harder than most athletes, and they seem to be a hell of a lot nicer too. Go show them your respect.
Here's a Race Update from the St. Louis Post Dispatch, following Saturday's finish:
"Danny Pate of Colorado Springs, Colo., rode to a solo stage win and George Hincapie of Greenville, S.C., kept his race lead for the fourth day Saturday in stage 5 of the Tour of Missouri.
Pate (Team Slipstream), a former junior world time trial champion, escaped from two other riders to claim the 126.8-mile Jefferson City to St. Charles road race in 4 hours, 50 minutes and 21 seconds.
John Fredy Parra (Tecos de la Universidad) of Colombia was second, and Jeff Louder (Health-Net) of Salt Lake City was third, both eight seconds behind Pate. Hincapie (Discovery Channel), who assumed the lead after winning stage 2, finished 25th in the main field, 2:26 behind the stage winner.
Pate maintained his 1 minute, 40-second race advantage over William Frischkorn of Boulder, Colo. David Canada (Prodir-Saunier Duval) of Spain is third overall, trailing by 2:22, with Dominique Rollin of Canada fourth, trailing by 2:23."
***Secondly, Missouri's offense seems to be untouchable right now. Two touchdown passes and a TD run for Chase Daniel adds to his impressive and ever growing eleven touchdowns over the course of the squad's first three games. Adding to West Michigan's trouble this week was wide receiver Jeremy Maclin's 275 yards of total offense (96 yards receiving, 52 yards rushing, 96 returning kickoffs, and 31 yards returning punts). "He obviously had a great day catching the football and on punt returns and kickoff returns," Mizzou coach Gary Pinkel said. "We find different ways to get him the ball because he can make things happen. He's just got to keep working harder, which he will. He's a great young man. He can do a lot of things to change a game fast." The Tigers were 23rd in total offense going into this week, ranked in the top ten in both passing and receiving. I would imagine that those stats only got better. 
If you cut out the early second half collapses, which have allowed Illinois, Ole Miss, and West Michigan to make scary attempts at comebacks, we have to like what we're seeing out of the Tigers right now. "We take each game one week at a time, and it was all about coming out and dominating today," MU defensive lineman Lorenzo Williams said. Yeah...well, let's try dominating for an entire game, instead of just half of a game.
Elsewhere in the Big 12, Oklahoma looks damn near unbeatable and Nebraska will get a true test tonight against the Booty-led USC Trojans. The Sooners have won their first three games by 158 points - the most dominant start to a season since the Sooners outscored their opponents 169-6 in 1972. But as it stands, Mizzou is holding its own and things are looking good on the home front for now. Once Big 12 play starts, things could go another direction. We shall see....
***When it comes to the Cardinals and deprived sex addicts...everybody's just depressed. Seriously, winning a game would feel like a junkie or an addict...of any kind....getting a long awaited fix. I don't even like talking about this. NEXT.
The Rams take on the Gold Miners at home this weekend. Division game. Huge rivalry. Two of the most exciting running backs in the game. A young and upcoming quarterback vs. a savvy veteran. Two teams nobody has any clue if they're going to be great or absolute trash. It's got THRILLER written all over it.
or
The 49ers could absolutely roll over a one week old but terribly depleted, aching, and probably completely atrocious offensive line, leading to a SF rout. Let's hope for the classic. But without Pace and Steussie, the Rams are going to have be magical to knock of Frank Gore and the boys.
*for info on fantasy football teams and players this week, check out Jason's blog.
Here's to hoping the Cardinals win, the Rams win, and you get off the couch and go watch some bike racing tomorrow. As for me, well, I'll figure something out.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Tour of Missouri Hits Home: Your Complete Guide
Cycling doesn't get the attention it deserves in the great Show-Me-State.
Despite the copious amounts of riders that peddle across the Heartland's county roads, enjoying the rolling green hills of Missouri's back country...very few are aware that one of the nations premier bike races is about to make its home in our backyard.
Somebody call the diesel drivers and tell them to get their chew ready, this is prime time. Not only will they get to honk and spit at bikers next week, they'll get to honk and spit at some of the world's best bikers.
From September 11-16, professional cyclists from more than 20 countries, representing 15 of the world's top teams will cover 600 miles from Kansas City to St. Louis.
And this isn't just your typical Sunday stroll through the county, this is competitive cycling at it's best. The Tour of Missouri, in it's initial year, is slated as one of the nation's top three stage races, behind the prestigious Tour de Georgia and Amgen Tour of California.
Cycling in Missouri doesn't get the same amount of attention, or respect, that it does in the Western U.S.; but nonetheless, next week all Midwesterners will get a chance to see numerous Tour de France riders as well as a plethora of up-and-coming riders who are considered to have legitimate shots at etching their names on the long list of cycling greats. You'd be a damned fool to miss this.
Your complete Tour of Missouri guide is below.
QUICK FACTS:
*Dates: September 11-16, 2007
*Estimated Total Miles: 600
*Number of Teams: 15 (all professional, elite)
*Total Cyclists per Team: 8
*Number of Cyclists: 120
*Ranking: 2.1 (third highest in North America, in terms of prestige)
*National Television: Versus
*Sanctioning: International Cycling Union, USA Cycling
*Presenting Partners: State of Missouri, Missouri Division of Tourism
*Event Management and Marketing: Medalist Sports, KOM Sports Marketing
*More information: www.tourofmissouri.com
*Travel Information: www.VisitMo.com
STAGE 1: Tuesday, September 11
*Kansas City to Kansas City, road race, 85 miles
*Start: 1 p.m.
*Estimated Finish: 4:30 p.m.
*This out and back course will start in the uptown section of Kansas City in the trendy Plaza District and route north into the rolling Missouri countryside, passing through North Kansas City, Farley, East Leavenworth, Beverly, Tracy, and Platte City. After a few potential breakaway attempts, the 120 cyclists should enter the final three, five-mile circuits en masse for a finish that will likely feature the top sprinters jousting for position and a chance to not only win the stage but capture the Missouri Tourism Yellow Leader's Jersey. The final circuits will feature some of Kansas City's world-famous fountains. The first point for the Michelob ULTRA King of the Mountains competition will be awarded.
STAGE 2: Wednesday, September 12
*Clinton to Springfield, road race, 125.6 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:30 p.m.
*After an hour transfer south to the quaint town of Clinton, near the trailhead of the state-long Katy Trail, racers will meander through the flat to rolling terrain farther south to the All-American city of Springfield. The race will start in the historic district of Clinton before heading adjacent to Highway 13, passing through the towns of Fair Play, Aldrich, and Walnut Grove, including an Edwards Jones sprint line in the town of Stockton, before racing into downtown Springfield and two final circuits. Barring a potential odd breakaway, this should be another day for the top sprinters in the field. With time bonuses on the road and at the finish line, a change in the race leadership is possible.
STAGE 3: Thursday, September 13
*Branson, individual Time Trial, 18 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 1:55 p.m.
*The caravan will transfer 45 minutes south to the booming tourist town of Branson. The Landing, a new development along the river, will play host to the start of an individual time trial with a finishing climb rolling up to Shepherd of the Hills, at about 1,300 feet. KOM points will be awarded for the final climb up to the finish. Dubbed "the most decisive day" of the inaugural Tour of Missouri, this 18-mile time trial features very hilly terrain with stretches on a four-lane highway that will keep speeds high for the top time trialists. Branson is known for showmanship; therefore, the winner of this stage needs to put on a big performance with the likely result being the yellow fleece which he and his team will most likely need to protect all the way to St. Louis.
STAGE 4: Friday, September 14
*Lebanon to Columbia, road race, 133 miles
*Start: 10:30 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:25 p.m.
*The Caravan once again will transfer, this time 90 minutes north to the agriculture hub of Lebanon, for the start of this lengthy stage. The race will snake through the towns of Guthrie and Ulman, highlighted by a sprint in Jefferson City and points available for the Edward Jones sprint jersey. The longest stage and potentially the most difficult of the inaugural event, the first part of the race will be flat before rolling as it gets closer to Missouri's beautiful rivers en route to the finish in the educational center of Columbia. The race will finish near the campus of the University of Missouri in the heart of downtown Columbia. It will be a double bonus for Missouri Students as it is Parent's Weekend.
STAGE 5: Saturday, September 15
*Jefferson City to St. Charles, road race, 126.6 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:40 p.m.
*The caravan will make a short 30 minute transfer to Jefferson City for the start of the penultimate stage of the race. Starting against the backdrop of Missouri's Capitol building, this stage is another difficult one, despite no major climbs. Though starting dead flat for the first 25 miles, the course features a serpentine route along Highways 94 and 100 along the Missouri River, passing through the heart of Missouri's booming wine country, hitting Augusta, Herman, and Washington en route to the finish in beautiful and historic St. Charles, the second oldest American settlement west of the Mississippi. The race finishes near the famous Lewis and Clark Rendezvous and passes near Davy Crockett's house and includes a quarter mile stretch near the finish line over bricks on St. Charles' historic Main Street. With a reported 6,000 feet of undulated climbing, this stage is ripe for a breakaway that could stick, or at bare minimum challenge the race leader and his team.
Stage 6: Sunday, September 16
*St. Louis, circuit, 74 miles
*Start: 1 p.m.
*Estimates Finish: 3:40 p.m.
*The race makes a short jaunt south and east to Missouri's largest metropolitan area - St. Louis. Peering down Market Street, riders will glimpse the famous Arch as they start. The start will take place at St. Louis' famous Union Station. Riders will race seven circuits of 10-plus miles through urban terrain. The race, likely a promenade of sorts, still could feature a breakaway of riders way down in the general classification. The course moves west and back east, driving through the northeast part of Forest Park, which played host to the 1904 World's Fair and Olympics. The course sandwiches St. Louis University, passing by the north and south-side of the campus. With the Cubs at Cardinals and the 49ers at Rams taking place during the early part of the race, the finish could see spill-over crowds from those two sporting events, making the finale one to remember for this sports-crazy town. Either way, the backdrop is something the overall champion won't soon forget.
THE TEAMS:USA National Team, Discovery Channel, BMC, Colavita-Sutter Home, DFL-Cyclingnews-Litespeed, Health Net-Maxxis, Jelly Belly, KodakGallery-Sierra Nevada, Navigators Insurance, Prodir-Saunier Duval, Sparkasse, Slipstream-Chipotle, Symmetrics, Tecos, Toyota-United.
***Information provided by VeloNews
Despite the copious amounts of riders that peddle across the Heartland's county roads, enjoying the rolling green hills of Missouri's back country...very few are aware that one of the nations premier bike races is about to make its home in our backyard.
Somebody call the diesel drivers and tell them to get their chew ready, this is prime time. Not only will they get to honk and spit at bikers next week, they'll get to honk and spit at some of the world's best bikers.
From September 11-16, professional cyclists from more than 20 countries, representing 15 of the world's top teams will cover 600 miles from Kansas City to St. Louis.
And this isn't just your typical Sunday stroll through the county, this is competitive cycling at it's best. The Tour of Missouri, in it's initial year, is slated as one of the nation's top three stage races, behind the prestigious Tour de Georgia and Amgen Tour of California.
Cycling in Missouri doesn't get the same amount of attention, or respect, that it does in the Western U.S.; but nonetheless, next week all Midwesterners will get a chance to see numerous Tour de France riders as well as a plethora of up-and-coming riders who are considered to have legitimate shots at etching their names on the long list of cycling greats. You'd be a damned fool to miss this.
Your complete Tour of Missouri guide is below.
QUICK FACTS:
*Dates: September 11-16, 2007
*Estimated Total Miles: 600
*Number of Teams: 15 (all professional, elite)
*Total Cyclists per Team: 8
*Number of Cyclists: 120
*Ranking: 2.1 (third highest in North America, in terms of prestige)
*National Television: Versus
*Sanctioning: International Cycling Union, USA Cycling
*Presenting Partners: State of Missouri, Missouri Division of Tourism
*Event Management and Marketing: Medalist Sports, KOM Sports Marketing
*More information: www.tourofmissouri.com
*Travel Information: www.VisitMo.com
STAGE 1: Tuesday, September 11
*Kansas City to Kansas City, road race, 85 miles
*Start: 1 p.m.
*Estimated Finish: 4:30 p.m.
*This out and back course will start in the uptown section of Kansas City in the trendy Plaza District and route north into the rolling Missouri countryside, passing through North Kansas City, Farley, East Leavenworth, Beverly, Tracy, and Platte City. After a few potential breakaway attempts, the 120 cyclists should enter the final three, five-mile circuits en masse for a finish that will likely feature the top sprinters jousting for position and a chance to not only win the stage but capture the Missouri Tourism Yellow Leader's Jersey. The final circuits will feature some of Kansas City's world-famous fountains. The first point for the Michelob ULTRA King of the Mountains competition will be awarded.
STAGE 2: Wednesday, September 12
*Clinton to Springfield, road race, 125.6 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:30 p.m.
*After an hour transfer south to the quaint town of Clinton, near the trailhead of the state-long Katy Trail, racers will meander through the flat to rolling terrain farther south to the All-American city of Springfield. The race will start in the historic district of Clinton before heading adjacent to Highway 13, passing through the towns of Fair Play, Aldrich, and Walnut Grove, including an Edwards Jones sprint line in the town of Stockton, before racing into downtown Springfield and two final circuits. Barring a potential odd breakaway, this should be another day for the top sprinters in the field. With time bonuses on the road and at the finish line, a change in the race leadership is possible.
STAGE 3: Thursday, September 13
*Branson, individual Time Trial, 18 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 1:55 p.m.
*The caravan will transfer 45 minutes south to the booming tourist town of Branson. The Landing, a new development along the river, will play host to the start of an individual time trial with a finishing climb rolling up to Shepherd of the Hills, at about 1,300 feet. KOM points will be awarded for the final climb up to the finish. Dubbed "the most decisive day" of the inaugural Tour of Missouri, this 18-mile time trial features very hilly terrain with stretches on a four-lane highway that will keep speeds high for the top time trialists. Branson is known for showmanship; therefore, the winner of this stage needs to put on a big performance with the likely result being the yellow fleece which he and his team will most likely need to protect all the way to St. Louis.
STAGE 4: Friday, September 14
*Lebanon to Columbia, road race, 133 miles
*Start: 10:30 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:25 p.m.
*The Caravan once again will transfer, this time 90 minutes north to the agriculture hub of Lebanon, for the start of this lengthy stage. The race will snake through the towns of Guthrie and Ulman, highlighted by a sprint in Jefferson City and points available for the Edward Jones sprint jersey. The longest stage and potentially the most difficult of the inaugural event, the first part of the race will be flat before rolling as it gets closer to Missouri's beautiful rivers en route to the finish in the educational center of Columbia. The race will finish near the campus of the University of Missouri in the heart of downtown Columbia. It will be a double bonus for Missouri Students as it is Parent's Weekend.
STAGE 5: Saturday, September 15
*Jefferson City to St. Charles, road race, 126.6 miles
*Start: 11 a.m.
*Estimated Finish: 3:40 p.m.
*The caravan will make a short 30 minute transfer to Jefferson City for the start of the penultimate stage of the race. Starting against the backdrop of Missouri's Capitol building, this stage is another difficult one, despite no major climbs. Though starting dead flat for the first 25 miles, the course features a serpentine route along Highways 94 and 100 along the Missouri River, passing through the heart of Missouri's booming wine country, hitting Augusta, Herman, and Washington en route to the finish in beautiful and historic St. Charles, the second oldest American settlement west of the Mississippi. The race finishes near the famous Lewis and Clark Rendezvous and passes near Davy Crockett's house and includes a quarter mile stretch near the finish line over bricks on St. Charles' historic Main Street. With a reported 6,000 feet of undulated climbing, this stage is ripe for a breakaway that could stick, or at bare minimum challenge the race leader and his team.
Stage 6: Sunday, September 16
*St. Louis, circuit, 74 miles
*Start: 1 p.m.
*Estimates Finish: 3:40 p.m.
*The race makes a short jaunt south and east to Missouri's largest metropolitan area - St. Louis. Peering down Market Street, riders will glimpse the famous Arch as they start. The start will take place at St. Louis' famous Union Station. Riders will race seven circuits of 10-plus miles through urban terrain. The race, likely a promenade of sorts, still could feature a breakaway of riders way down in the general classification. The course moves west and back east, driving through the northeast part of Forest Park, which played host to the 1904 World's Fair and Olympics. The course sandwiches St. Louis University, passing by the north and south-side of the campus. With the Cubs at Cardinals and the 49ers at Rams taking place during the early part of the race, the finish could see spill-over crowds from those two sporting events, making the finale one to remember for this sports-crazy town. Either way, the backdrop is something the overall champion won't soon forget.
THE TEAMS:USA National Team, Discovery Channel, BMC, Colavita-Sutter Home, DFL-Cyclingnews-Litespeed, Health Net-Maxxis, Jelly Belly, KodakGallery-Sierra Nevada, Navigators Insurance, Prodir-Saunier Duval, Sparkasse, Slipstream-Chipotle, Symmetrics, Tecos, Toyota-United.
***Information provided by VeloNews
Friday, September 07, 2007
This Week's Idiot: Jeff Passan
Raise your hand if you're an idiot.
Hmmm... why is Jeff Passan the only one raising his hand? Surely there's more idiots in the crowd.
However, it seems this week's candidate is the first fool to shove his hand up Rick Ankiel's ass and blow this nonsense right out of proportion.
Passan says, in his yahoo.com article on Friday, "the author of baseball's greatest story this season – the one guy in whom everyone, Cardinals fans or otherwise, wanted to believe – was allegedly just like Barry Bonds: seeking glory through needles."
What? What? What? Let's get one thing clear, I've been extremely vocal and a big advocate of ridding the game of illegal substances, whether it be steroids or some small pill that big leaguers are poppin. If it's illegal, ban it. And ban the player.
That said, there is a fine line, and I mean a FINE line between Rick Ankiel and Barry Bonds. There is a fine line between Rick Ankiel and Mark McGwire.
What is that line?
Well, for starters, what Ankiel did and took was not illegal. It is now. But it wasn't then. Secondly, for anybody who is able to read, comprehend, and understand the basics of a story without feeling the urge to get your name on the front page of a multi-million dollar, yet sub-par sports URL, would clearly see Ankiel's history and quietly, and respectfully, take into consideration the HUGE possibility that what Ankiel took was a substance, recommended by doctors, to help him overcome an injury.
The Comeback Kid was injured. The 'Natural' took a legal substance, recommended by his physicians, to help overcome a serious injury. Would we not do the same? If your family doctor told you that in order to heal properly and efficiently you needed to take a certain medicine, would you look at him and say "no."
"Um, sir, in my own non-professional, non-medical opinion I think you're out of line by suggesting that I get healthy."
Is that what idiot Passan would say? No, he wouldn't. He would nod his head and say yes, then go home and ask his wife to help him swallow the horse pills because he's too big of a pansy to do it himself.
He goes on in his column:
"So expect more names to emerge, more legacies to fall, more stories on pharmaceuticals instead of far home runs. Busch Stadium crackled with life as Ankiel smacked his eighth and ninth homers Thursday, and after the Cardinals' 16-4 victory, La Russa started to wax on how Ankiel was a "marvel."
"It is kind of amazing," he said, "isn't it?"
Actually, no. Not anymore.
Not in the least.
So, less than two hours after the premature and ill-informed news was leaked about Ankiel, Passan and his yahoo buddies gathered around their water cooler and all must have openly agreed that Rick Ankiel is trash and everything he's done in the last month is worth nothing. Of course, they didn't consider the fact that they knew absolutely no facts, they had heard not a single person's story - neither Ankiel's nor Major League Baseballs, nor had they taken the time to consider a reasonable, yet less interesting storyline.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we've found a bigger idiot than Gary Pinkel.
Of course, Pinkel has a chance to regain his throne tomorrow, as he usually does every Saturday during football season.
Until then, take this bullshit media hype about Ankiel with a grain of salt. And until we know at least one truth, sit back and enjoy the Cardinals run into the postseason.
***Disclaimer: this blog was written at a time when the only fact about the Ankiel case that was known is that what he took wasn't illegal when he took it. If it turns out that Ankiel is a lying cheat and a doper, then I'll be sure to blast him as well. But no matter how the case turns out, Passan - as a "professional" journalist -is absolutely and completely out of line, and his horsecrap opinion is rooted in absolutely nothing of relevant importance.
Hmmm... why is Jeff Passan the only one raising his hand? Surely there's more idiots in the crowd.
However, it seems this week's candidate is the first fool to shove his hand up Rick Ankiel's ass and blow this nonsense right out of proportion.
Passan says, in his yahoo.com article on Friday, "the author of baseball's greatest story this season – the one guy in whom everyone, Cardinals fans or otherwise, wanted to believe – was allegedly just like Barry Bonds: seeking glory through needles."
What? What? What? Let's get one thing clear, I've been extremely vocal and a big advocate of ridding the game of illegal substances, whether it be steroids or some small pill that big leaguers are poppin. If it's illegal, ban it. And ban the player.
That said, there is a fine line, and I mean a FINE line between Rick Ankiel and Barry Bonds. There is a fine line between Rick Ankiel and Mark McGwire.
What is that line?
Well, for starters, what Ankiel did and took was not illegal. It is now. But it wasn't then. Secondly, for anybody who is able to read, comprehend, and understand the basics of a story without feeling the urge to get your name on the front page of a multi-million dollar, yet sub-par sports URL, would clearly see Ankiel's history and quietly, and respectfully, take into consideration the HUGE possibility that what Ankiel took was a substance, recommended by doctors, to help him overcome an injury.
The Comeback Kid was injured. The 'Natural' took a legal substance, recommended by his physicians, to help overcome a serious injury. Would we not do the same? If your family doctor told you that in order to heal properly and efficiently you needed to take a certain medicine, would you look at him and say "no."
"Um, sir, in my own non-professional, non-medical opinion I think you're out of line by suggesting that I get healthy."
Is that what idiot Passan would say? No, he wouldn't. He would nod his head and say yes, then go home and ask his wife to help him swallow the horse pills because he's too big of a pansy to do it himself.
He goes on in his column:
"So expect more names to emerge, more legacies to fall, more stories on pharmaceuticals instead of far home runs. Busch Stadium crackled with life as Ankiel smacked his eighth and ninth homers Thursday, and after the Cardinals' 16-4 victory, La Russa started to wax on how Ankiel was a "marvel."
"It is kind of amazing," he said, "isn't it?"
Actually, no. Not anymore.
Not in the least.
So, less than two hours after the premature and ill-informed news was leaked about Ankiel, Passan and his yahoo buddies gathered around their water cooler and all must have openly agreed that Rick Ankiel is trash and everything he's done in the last month is worth nothing. Of course, they didn't consider the fact that they knew absolutely no facts, they had heard not a single person's story - neither Ankiel's nor Major League Baseballs, nor had they taken the time to consider a reasonable, yet less interesting storyline.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we've found a bigger idiot than Gary Pinkel.
Of course, Pinkel has a chance to regain his throne tomorrow, as he usually does every Saturday during football season.
Until then, take this bullshit media hype about Ankiel with a grain of salt. And until we know at least one truth, sit back and enjoy the Cardinals run into the postseason.
***Disclaimer: this blog was written at a time when the only fact about the Ankiel case that was known is that what he took wasn't illegal when he took it. If it turns out that Ankiel is a lying cheat and a doper, then I'll be sure to blast him as well. But no matter how the case turns out, Passan - as a "professional" journalist -is absolutely and completely out of line, and his horsecrap opinion is rooted in absolutely nothing of relevant importance.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Too Close to Not be Pissed
We certainly learned one thing about the Missouri Football team on Saturday, following their near choke job against an Illinois team led by a backup quarterback: the play calling hasn't gotten any better.
For those of you who look at the 40 points that the Tigers posted and say, "well, forty points, the play calling must have been decent."
WRONG.
Consider these bonehead play calls by Gary Pinkel and his challenged coaching staff.
***A failed two point conversion in the SECOND QUARTER. Had the Tigers simply kicked the extra point, the smart play, they would have held a four point lead with 14:10 remaining in the fourth quarter, following an Illinois touchdown, rather than a one position, three point lead. Kicking the PAT would have also relieved some pressure down the stretch as the Tigers would have been leading by 7 as opposed to 6 in the closing minutes.
The bottom line is that you don't freak out, panic, and decide to attempt a two point conversion in the second quarter when you had a chance to take a 15-6, eight point lead. This call must have been made by a mentally challenged piece of the coaching personal.
***There isn't an easier way to explain the double reverse call in the third quarter with a 17-point lead either. A double reverse with a 17 point lead? Are you kidding me? Why? This brings forth a very frustrating aspect of the Tiger's play calling, why the hell do we spend half of the game in the back field?
Every SINGLE play starts with a three to four yard loss due to Pinkel's retarded shotgun scheme. First down and goal from the one, the ONE, in the first quarter and Pinkel calls four consecutive shotgun plays. FROM THE ONE. I understand he gets a hard-on for the shotgun, and I also realize he's said that his offense will play out of the shotgun the entire season. But, c'mon. Any idiot is smart enough to put at least one play that starts under center for situations like these. Why not line Martin Rucker up as fullback and have Tony Temple complete the I formation and just pound the ball across the line with one of those two guys. We saw today that Rucker can play out of the backfield, as well as move a pile of seven guys. Why not use him?
You want another example...how about the third and one shotgun pass with 12:31 remaining in the fourth? Um...for crying out loud.
***This brings me to another point concerning Tony Temple. You have to feel bad for this guy. I mean really bad. Chances are good that he could be a conference leader in yards from scrimmage if only he didn't have to gain four yards before he gets back to the line of scrimmage. EVERY SINGLE carry poor Tony Temple has to start four yards in the red. This is terrible coaching. Not to mention, every single running play takes an hour and a half to develop. The kid has no chance.
Dammit Pinkel. Get your boy under center and let's play some old school football and get this pansy ass, softball crap out of here.
OTHER NOTES:
*You have to like the way Chase Daniel (37-54, 358 yds, 3 TDs) looked from series to series. He made some pretty impressive escapes today and, for the most part, was dead accurate...considering this was the season's first game.
*Martin Rucker is a superstar. Bottom line. Getting him involved in the game early was crucial. This offensive squad has so many weapons, as shown today (Rucker, Chase Coffman, Sweat William Franklin, Danario Alexander, Tommy Saunders, and Jeremy Maclin). With this corp group of recievers and tight ends, Daniel will be able to keep defenses on their toes the entire season.
*Speaking of Alexander and Maclin...what pleasant surprises. Big games for each.
ON THE DEFENSIVE SIDE OF THE BALL:
*Somebody needs to dress up as a dirty pig and be at next week's game. How about the game Pig Brown had? Two fumble recoveries (one for a touchdown) and a goal line interception with the game on the line. A nice start.
*The ESPN2 announcers, I'm not sure who they were, quoted Gary Pinkel as saying that freshman defensive back Carl Gettis is the "best defensive back I've ever seen." High praise for a kid who played on the other side of the ball up until this year.
***It looks to me like the bottom line is simple. This team has talent on both sides of the ball, if the play calling gets better (which it won't) the Tigers have a chance to do some pretty impressive things this year. As it is, however, with an ignorant shotgun format on offense and an idiot calling plays on the side line, expect a couple frustrating losses to teams the Tigers should beat...costing them the Big 12 North.
For those of you who look at the 40 points that the Tigers posted and say, "well, forty points, the play calling must have been decent."
WRONG.
Consider these bonehead play calls by Gary Pinkel and his challenged coaching staff.
***A failed two point conversion in the SECOND QUARTER. Had the Tigers simply kicked the extra point, the smart play, they would have held a four point lead with 14:10 remaining in the fourth quarter, following an Illinois touchdown, rather than a one position, three point lead. Kicking the PAT would have also relieved some pressure down the stretch as the Tigers would have been leading by 7 as opposed to 6 in the closing minutes.
The bottom line is that you don't freak out, panic, and decide to attempt a two point conversion in the second quarter when you had a chance to take a 15-6, eight point lead. This call must have been made by a mentally challenged piece of the coaching personal.
***There isn't an easier way to explain the double reverse call in the third quarter with a 17-point lead either. A double reverse with a 17 point lead? Are you kidding me? Why? This brings forth a very frustrating aspect of the Tiger's play calling, why the hell do we spend half of the game in the back field?
Every SINGLE play starts with a three to four yard loss due to Pinkel's retarded shotgun scheme. First down and goal from the one, the ONE, in the first quarter and Pinkel calls four consecutive shotgun plays. FROM THE ONE. I understand he gets a hard-on for the shotgun, and I also realize he's said that his offense will play out of the shotgun the entire season. But, c'mon. Any idiot is smart enough to put at least one play that starts under center for situations like these. Why not line Martin Rucker up as fullback and have Tony Temple complete the I formation and just pound the ball across the line with one of those two guys. We saw today that Rucker can play out of the backfield, as well as move a pile of seven guys. Why not use him?
You want another example...how about the third and one shotgun pass with 12:31 remaining in the fourth? Um...for crying out loud.
***This brings me to another point concerning Tony Temple. You have to feel bad for this guy. I mean really bad. Chances are good that he could be a conference leader in yards from scrimmage if only he didn't have to gain four yards before he gets back to the line of scrimmage. EVERY SINGLE carry poor Tony Temple has to start four yards in the red. This is terrible coaching. Not to mention, every single running play takes an hour and a half to develop. The kid has no chance.
Dammit Pinkel. Get your boy under center and let's play some old school football and get this pansy ass, softball crap out of here.
OTHER NOTES:
*You have to like the way Chase Daniel (37-54, 358 yds, 3 TDs) looked from series to series. He made some pretty impressive escapes today and, for the most part, was dead accurate...considering this was the season's first game.
*Martin Rucker is a superstar. Bottom line. Getting him involved in the game early was crucial. This offensive squad has so many weapons, as shown today (Rucker, Chase Coffman, Sweat William Franklin, Danario Alexander, Tommy Saunders, and Jeremy Maclin). With this corp group of recievers and tight ends, Daniel will be able to keep defenses on their toes the entire season.
*Speaking of Alexander and Maclin...what pleasant surprises. Big games for each.
ON THE DEFENSIVE SIDE OF THE BALL:
*Somebody needs to dress up as a dirty pig and be at next week's game. How about the game Pig Brown had? Two fumble recoveries (one for a touchdown) and a goal line interception with the game on the line. A nice start.
*The ESPN2 announcers, I'm not sure who they were, quoted Gary Pinkel as saying that freshman defensive back Carl Gettis is the "best defensive back I've ever seen." High praise for a kid who played on the other side of the ball up until this year.
***It looks to me like the bottom line is simple. This team has talent on both sides of the ball, if the play calling gets better (which it won't) the Tigers have a chance to do some pretty impressive things this year. As it is, however, with an ignorant shotgun format on offense and an idiot calling plays on the side line, expect a couple frustrating losses to teams the Tigers should beat...costing them the Big 12 North.
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