ta ta.

currently in hawaii getting a killer tan.
   lots of pictures coming soon.
4 more days of paradise. 

Thinking Out Loud…

I’m not coaching (again) this year.   Part by choice – part by schedule (conflict).  When you are away from the frying pan, you are afforded the luxury of a perspective without any critical timeline.  When  you’re not confronted with an instant-response requirement to develop a plan for the next game or (during the spring) the next season’s practice structure anything can seem like a good idea.   During the spring, your team is full of potential and beaming with unchallenged optimism.  You will try new things, looking for any edge you can find to become even better than you were last season to improve your players performance to a higher, more efficient level.

Along that mindset, something that has been on my mind for a few months after stumbling upon an enlightening book,  “The Tell-Tale Brain",  by Dr. V. S. Ramachandran, and his theory of the “mirror box”.  Its an amazing discovery, though simple in concept.

The patient put his phantom limb on the nonreflecting side of the mirror and his normal arm on the reflecting side of the mirror. When the patient then looked at the reflecting side, it appeared as if the phantom limb had returned. (It was, in fact, a reflection of the patient's existing arm.)

"If the patient then starts moving his hand, clapping his hand or conducting an orchestra or waving goodbye while looking in the mirror, he's going to see the mirror reflection of the normal hand superposed on the phantom, moving in command with the command sent to the phantom arm," says Ramachandran. "So you're going to get the visual illusion that the phantom limb is obeying the command."

Though patients know intellectually that their phantom limbs have not returned, they are able to successfully trick their brains into thinking that their limbs have returned.

"It not only looks like it's there, it feels like it's there," says Ramachandran. "Patients say, 'When I move my normal hand, the phantom arm looks like it's moving. When I open the normal fist, the phantom hand — whose fist I could not open for months — suddenly feels as if it is opening as a result of the visual feedback, and the painful cramp goes away.' This is a striking example of modulation of pain signals by vision."

Dr. V.S. Ramachandran, called the "Marco Polo of neuroscience" by Richard Dawkins, is the author of several books on the brain, including Phantoms in the Brain: Probing Mysteries of the Human Mind and A Brief Tour of Human Consciousness: From Impostor Poodles to Purple Numbers. He gave the 2003 BBC Reith Lectures and has published more than 180 papers in scientific journals including Nature and Science.

 

So, I’ve  just been simmering on that concept for the past five months or so, thinking, “Hey, could this be helpful with coaching?”.  It was also during this time that I was fully immersing myself in Coach Mark Rodriguez’s 4D-FTP transition / footwork methods. 

Yeah, sounds good and if it works, you’d look like a genius.  So the question is, it may work for the neurologist quack and his fancy book-learnin’, but is there any practical use in the “real world”?

Well, when you stop and think about it – yes, there is, and its quite common.  Skilled dancers relyon instant reinforcement of mirrors in dance studios all the time.  Without it, performers may feel like they’re doing a great job, but quite possibly contorting themselves into horribly inefficient movements. 

Also, think of the (real) purpose of all those mirrors in the gym.   No, they aren’t for you to practice your pose down for the Arnold Classic, but to reinforce strict form on your concentric/eccentric movements.  So, yeah…..I guess it IS a common practice when training the body to perform an action.

I’ve always appreciated (and stressed the need for) filming practice and drill work to reinforce/review technique with players. While it has been helpful, I find the lack of immediate response rather deflating. Sure, you get to see what went wrong, what is correctable, but it usually requires another practice session hours away (or 24 hours after viewing) for an opportunity to get it right (then go through the same process, if audible cues aren’t successful). The point is – if you can get an immediate stimulus to how you (as an athlete) are performing, you could ‘self-correct’ instantly. The athlete could take cues not just from what a coach is telling him, but he would see and feel the peak body position.

How could it be used? The key to technique is in the minutiae of movement; leverage, body position, feet and hips. I’m thinking foot placement ladder drills for DBs (or the 4D weave drills) or OLine stance/starts. Anything where you’re just concentrating on few movements in a short space. The player obviously would have to be in an environment where you are not pressed for time (so I’m thinking pre-practice), won’t be making contact, and where the eye-level/focus can be sacrificed to reinforce body position (in the mirror).

If I were coaching this spring, I was planning on just using a simple full-length mirror (that you could get cheaply at any department store), place it horizontally along a DB ladder. With the player’s eye level through the mirror, they can see each step as they take it, and ensure they aren’t over striding, and are effectively placing their toes on the ground. You obviously wouldn’t use it in every drill, just when you’re trying to build those fundamental psycho-motor responses that are intuitive in great game performers.

 

What are the drawbacks?

1. It is different.
   
2. It requires the athlete’s eye’s be diverted to a focal point you may not want to reinforce (if eyes are down for below-the-waist training).
   
3. May not see an immediate (if any) benefit (you’re training muscle-memory…it is long-term process).
   
4. Out on the field, equipment (mirror) is fragile and could cause a real mess. This is something probably reserved for indoors / at the Field House.

I don’t know – maybe I’m just completely full of it.  Let us know what you think. It could help or it could be just a huge waste of time.

Celtics vs Spurs Preview

Depth Chart

	Boston (PPG)	San Antonio (PPG)
PG	R. Rondo 10.4	T. Parker 17.5
SG	R. Allen 17.0	M. Ginobili 17.8
SF	P. Pierce 18.7	R. Jefferson 11.1
PF	K. Garnett 14.7	A. McDyess 5.2
C	N. Krstic 8.2	T. Splitter 4.6

Two old teams on a downward spiral are facing off and to be honest I much rather the Spurs when Tony Parker, Manu, Tim Duncan and McDyess are all gimpy. Parker is considered the most likely of the Spurs' injured players to return Thursday, though McDyess also has a chance to play. Ginobili, injured in Sunday's loss at Memphis, said he was feeling "much better" on Monday, but his status and Duncan's are unknown.

That's a good thing and good news for Rondo who is coming off a good game against the Pacers. Rondo can absolutely take advantage of Parkers injury and age and blow passed him all game. Since the Celtics recent struggles this would be a perfect game to right the ship and get Paul Pierce and Ray Allen going. The Spurs are a good team and even though they have injuries this will still be a quality win.

I think the Celtics turn the switch on and win this game big.

Celtics 112-94
Tommy Award: Rajon

Rays Extend Wade Davis

The Rays announced that they agreed to a four-year extension with Wade Davis that's worth at least $12.6MM and could be worth up to $35.1MM. Jet Sports Management represents the right-hander.

The 2011-14 seasons are guaranteed and the Rays hold options for the 2015, 2016 and 2017 seasons.MLBTradeRumor

So they basically signed him to a cap friendly 7 year deal. It's pretty amazing how the Rays work with their young talent. They have very cap friendly signings for most of their good players. The option-heavy extension mirrors those signed by Ben Zobrist (2 club options), James Shields (3 club options) and Evan Longoria (3 club options). They are really going to love that Longoria one. As much as the Rays are in a shitty place they do it correctly Ah hem Pirates.

'Nique Still Knockin' People Out

Dominique Wilkins showed Wednesday night that he hasn't lost a thing since his playing days. Except this time he wasn't doing damage with thunderous assaults on the rim, but with his fists.

Wilkins was allegedly attacked by former NBA and NCAA basketball referee Rashan Michel following the Hawks win over the Magic last night at Philips Arena.

The alleged attack was over a dispute between the two men about some suits that Wilkins purchased from Michel's clothing store, and apparently never paid for.

Michel brought the feud to the twitter world - dropping these bombs -

"I call what happened at Philips Arena earlier, Operation Repo...next time have my money!"

" @DWilkins21 pay your debts, poser."

Hahahaha

This story is hysterical. Check out the damage that 'Nique did on this dude's face.


Yea. I don't think he's paying for those suits anytime too soon.


Witnesses say Wilkins landed at least 3 real good shots to Michel's head. How awesome is it that your VP of Operations guy is straight knockin' people out in the tunnels after the game? I wish Danny Ainge would lay some fools out at the TD Garden. I'd feel a lot better about the Celtics.

MLB Preview: Boston Red Sox (Hitting)

The Red Sox scored the 2nd most runs in baseball last year. They were 2nd in homeruns, 3rd in OBP, 2nd in slugging, 1st in OPS. In other words, they were pretty good at the plate. And they should be even better in 2011.

Adding Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez were the big stories of the off-season. Not to mention the returns of Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia, who only played in 102 and 75 games last year, respectively. These newcomers and returning producers should more than offset the loss of Beltre and Victor Martinez.

The middle of the lineup will be fierce. Gonzalez, liberated from San Diego's pitcher friendly park, should hit over .300, with an OBP close to .400, slug near .600, and approach 40 homers. Youkilis should hit nearly 30 homers, with an OBP well over .400, and slug around .570.

Putting Crawford and Pedroia ahead of them will result in abundant runs. Gonzalez could knock in 120, and Youkilis should easily surpass 100 RBI.

JD Drew's contract is up, so I think he'll actually play more than 140 games and produce. Then there's Ortiz, whose 32 homers and 102 RBIs were impressive in 2010. But he really struggled against lefties. Drew also can't hit southpaws. So against righties, the Sox will have an excellent 5-6 to keep the pressure on. Against lefties, you'll see plenty of innings ended by Drew and Ortiz.

The bottom of the lineup will be solid enough. I like Ellsbury as a 7th or 9th hitter, either keeping the middle of the orders' rallies going, or helping Crawford and Pedroia start a new one. He should hit .300, with a .350 OBP that keeps him from being a good leadoff option. Minimal power, but plenty of speed.

Scutaro had a decent year last season. But we've all sort of forgotten. So did Lowrie. Having both of them as options is a nice luxury. Both play good defense, and neither are easy outs. That's all you really want or need from the 8th spot in your lineup.

Speaking of easy outs, we come to Varitek/Saltalamacchia. They'll ground into so many double plays. That is, if they even make contact with the ball.

Anyway you stack it, this lineup is pretty sick. Mike Cameron can fill in for Drew against lefties. And the speed of Crawford and Ellsbury can help keep the whole batting order from slumping. And even if a tough lefty is on the mound, guys like Youkilis (.404 against LHP last year), can still give them problems.

The Sox scored 818 runs last year, or 5.05 per game. If they stay healthy, they'll score over 900.

You have an amazing offense, and suspect pitching. I'm reminded of the Cleveland Indians from 1995 to 1999. They'll be fun to watch. They'll win 100 regular season games. And they'll lose the World Series to a team with superior pitching. I'm thinking the Phillies. 1946 all over again.

-The Commodore

With The 7th Pick In The NFL Draft The San Fransisco 49ers Select...

Patrick Peterson CB LSU


The 49ers are super pumped to get Patrick who has the talent to be the number 1 pick. The 49ers are going to release Nate Clements, so Peterson can fill his spot pretty quickly with this kid. He is long, athletic and has go go gadget arms like Rondo. I was tempted to take Cam Newton with this pick but Patrick Peterson, in my eyes is the most sure thing in this draft.

Why Not?

Why not watch the LOST finale Four Loco style?

Lost (without Loko) - watch more funny videos

MLB Preview: Boston Red Sox (Pitching)

100 wins. All I keep hearing about is 100 wins. It's something the Red Sox haven't done since 1946. But is that really the achievement to long for? The Sox lost the 1946 World Series. And there are some parallels to that 1946 team, which led the Majors in offense, scoring half a run per game more than anyone else, but were 9th of 16 teams in runs allowed. They lost the World Series to St. Louis, the team that allowed the fewest runs in baseball.

Then, as now, pitching wins. And that's where I'll start this preview. Because even though a great offense can win 100 regular season games, it's pitching that wins 11 postseason games.

The Sox rotation looks the same as last year. And it has just as many question marks. We can pretty much bank on Jon Lester to have an ERA below 3.50, and 16 to 20 wins. He's been the rock of the rotation, and one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball the last 3 seasons.

Then there's Buchholz. Call me negative, but him repeating his 2010 feats is not guaranteed. We've all sort of assumed he will once again register an ERA around 2.50 and win close to 20 games. Maybe he will. Even 17 wins and a 3.00 ERA would be excellent. But he's 26. He has one great season under his belt. He's still a question mark. Even though he's overshadowed by much larger question marks in the rotation.

15-10 record. 3.96 ERA. 23 homeruns. That's what Josh Beckett averages every 162 games in his career. Even I was a little stunned to see that. It's so below average. With the Red Sox, he's been 71-40 with a 4.29 ERA. And since 2008, he's been atrocious. It's gotten to the point that Beckett isn't much of a question mark anymore. He's a bad pitcher until proven otherwise.

Among qualifying pitchers, John Lackey had the 73rd lowest ERA in baseball last year. He did eat innings, but that's pretty much it. You can live with him as a #4 starter, but if Beckett doesn't have a good year, he's your #3. And if Buchholz falters, he's your #2. And that's an alarming thought.

Then there's Daisuke. If any other pitcher won 18 games their sophomore season, then was repeatedly injured, struggled when healthy, and averaged 96 walks per full season, we'd be talking about sending him to Pawtucket. So what makes Daisuke so special? I just don't have a good feeling about Daisuke in 2011. Even when healthy, even when at his best, he doesn't go deep into games. His 18 win season was coupled with 167.2 innings pitched. 90 pitchers managed to surpass that mark in 2010.

Sorry folks, but the rotation is too vulnerable, and too dependent on all the stars aligning. Actually, it's dependant on time travel. If Buchholz is the same as he was in 2010, if Beckett is the same as he was in 2007, if Daisuke is the same as 2008, if Lackey is the same as he was in 2007 and in another city....

But it's 2011.

Thankfully, the bullpen looks quite a bit better than last year. The Sox blew the 4th most saves in baseball last year. And with shaky starting pitching, the bullpen will be worked hard in 2011.

Papelbon is still the closer. And even though he's not as elite as he used to be, he's still good enough. It'd be tough to find an improvement over him, but it won't be hard to find a replacement.

Daniel Bard has impressed as a set-up man, with a 1.11 WHIP in 124 career relief innings. Bard and Papelbon represent a quality 8th and 9th inning tandem. But they can't be overworked. They need help.

Bobby Jenks is a possible option. That's what the Sox did to this bullpen: added options. They signed a number of guys, hoping that one or two would work out as reliable set-up men. In the dice game that is relief pitching, this is a viable strategy to build a quality bullpen.

But Jenks is coming off a bad year. And he's gotten progressively worse since 2007. You never know with relievers, but it's hard to imagine that trend changing.

I'm much more optimistic about Dan Wheeler, who's pitched with success in the AL East. He's 33, but has 530 appearances under his belt. He'll wind up as the secondary set-up guy alongside Bard.

Wakefield will be a mop up man and spot starter. Doubront will be used against lefties.

The rest of the bullpen will be a revolving door of arms. Maybe one will be reliable enough to be a 6th inning man, or the type of guy that's brought in when the Sox are down 2 runs in the 7th.

Overrall, the bullpen isn't great, but it's no longer a liability. The rotation, however, is very suspect. So much needs to happen for it to work. And so much can go wrong for it to fail. I don't see Beckett winning more than 15 games. I don't see Daisuke throwing more than 180 innings. I see Buchholz having a good-not-great year. I don't see Lackey doing much better than he did in 2010.

But the offense should be able to make up for these shortcomings. At least in the regular season.

-The Commodore

It's Here!

OPENING DAY MOTHER F'ERS

Speaking Of LeBron

Know what pisses me off? When athletes talk about individual awards and here is what LeBron has to say: "I think [it's] Derrick Rose," James said before the Heat's game Wednesday night against the Washington Wizards. "What he's done for that team, with all the injuries they have and them being first in the Eastern Conference -- they're playing some really good basketball."

It could just be LeBron and that's why I'm jumping on this, but athletes in a hunt of 1st seed shouldn't be talking about individual awards to the public. Derrick Rose should win the award, he has led his team to the best record in the East, maybe the NBA so far in the season, and has done it with big injuries on his team. But shut up LeBron, this just shows me that these trivial awards are constantly in the back of his mind and that he cares more for individual success than team goals which is the championship. LeBron would probably more pissed if he lost the MVP award opposed to the championship.

Big Z Throws Elbows, John Wall Responds, John Wall Gets Ejected

A couple things about this, good for John Wall for swinging at a big guy and standing his ground. This isn't a big story but I do like it when people try to punch Heat players. The thing I don't understand is why Z wouldn't be kicked out as well? I guess you can't gauge intent, but it's pretty obvious he was head hunting with the bows. Also, It's to bad that Wall missed with his fist and connected with his elbow, nothing would have made me happier then to see Big Z fall to the ground.

I'm sure this is somehow LeBron's fault.

Chick Of The Day

Today's chick is Brea Lynn.

For more Brea Click Here

Why Not?

Why not find out that Mary Kate and Ashley are racist?

Mary Kate & Ashley Are Adorably Racist - watch more funny videos

Johnny Jolly Arrested Again

"According to police in Houston, the defensive end (Johnny Jolly) was arrested Friday morning after police officers found 600 grams of codeine in his car during a traffic stop. The substance is the main ingredient in a narcotic known as purple drank, and the charge is similar to the one that ultimately got Jolly suspended for the 2010 season (ESPN)."

This all but ends Jolly's career in the NFL. It is really too bad he a force when he plays, and the Packers were actually looking forward to having him back next season, especially with Cullen Jenkins almost definitely leaving. I just don't see Goodell letting him back into the NFL anytime soon, even when he gets out of jail.

Jolly is only 28 years old, but he has basically ruined his life/career already.

Unity of Apparent Intent

The following is a synopsis of what I consider the finest, free playbook on the internet:

Ted Seay (who, despite our never having met, has influenced me greatly) now has this gem in it’s 4th edition (available here). Schematically, 10/20 personnel Wing-T that combines series based runs with modern horizontal and vertical stretches is my cup of tea. Even if it is not your brand of football, I stand by my sentiment that EVERYONE concerned with offensive football should read this document.

In particular, as feeble an attempt as it may be, I would like to review Mr. Seay’s concept of “unity of apparent intent” (UAI). My intention is certainly not to add to this idea, nor do I trust I can adequately rehash it. My hope is to relay enough information that your interest is peaked and you will do yourself the service of reading about the “side order of football”.

WHAT IT IS…

The UAI is all about deception, a key component of the Wild bunch offense (and every other scheme). Starting at page 154 of the linked document, Mr. Seay artfully ties military strategy with football philosophy, creating his theory of attack as it pertains to offensive football. Again, go read the document for this valuable insight, as the scope of Mr. Seay’s theory (The Tao of Deception) is another article in and of itself. For now, I want to focus on what this means from a series based approach.

Creating conflict, in its most simple form, involves attacking a defender’s over reaction to a base play.

The above diagram is a crude drawing of the curl-flat concept, where by the Flat Defender ($) is placed in a no-win situation. He can either cover the out route and allow the Curl to materialize behind and inside of him, or he can sink to the curl and give up the easy throw to the out.

It is a typical 2 on 1 stretch that many offensive passing concepts seek to create, and unless the flat defender receives help from one of his teammates, the only thing stopping the offense from running curl-flat all the way down the field is a lack of offensive execution.

So here is what happens:

The cornerback (C) will only allow 10 yards completions happen right in front of him for so long before he starts playing the curl (instead of his deep 1/3 responsibility). Attacking overreaction (cheating of assignment, over aggression, etc.) is what series based play calling/offensive structure is all about.

Another crude drawing, but the wheel tag is an excellent way to attack a CB who is jumping curl routes. Essentially, we are attacking the primary responsibility of a player who has abandoned it in favor of “plugging the dike” somewhere else.

So, that is a simple example of what we mean generally by “creating conflict”. The UAI, however, is about the details. It’s about making Y’s out and wheel routes stem the exact same way. When two things look the same, but end up attacking a defensive in ways that are not only different, but in fact complimentary, then you have developed the unity of apparent intent to your advantage.

Imagine the CB has a great position coach….one who is determined to make cover 3 work against this little curl-flat with the wheel tag package. He decides to teach his CB to key #2 (Y) in his backpedal. He notices that on Curl flat, Y will vertical stem his route before breaking it hard to the flat. On the Wheel, however, Y will stem straight toward the sidelines and start to veer up field.

So, if Y stems vertical, then the CB has the ability to press the curl…….if Y immediately releases to the flat, then the CB knows he must play the wheel. The pattern of an offensive player’s movement tells the defender where he needs to be.

When it comes to making offensive decisions about “how do we run this route”, etc., this must be in the forefront of the play designer’s mind. Routes need to stem the same way (and runs need to look the same too) in order to keep the defense in a state of confusion/uncertainty. When an offense eliminates cues as to their intention, thereby gaining UAI, the offense functions far more efficiently.

For Mr. Seay, this culminated in how he blocked Fly sweep and the FB compliment off it for his Wild bunch.

Coming from a Wing-T background, Mr. Seay’s original version had pulling OG’s on the sweeps. After much study, he finally decided to switch to zone blocking everything.

The result is a truly UNREADABLE offensive series that starts with Jet Sweep (with OZ blocking). The compliment is the front side IZ run with the FB, which Mr. Seay’s research has shown actually averages more yards per call than the sweep. The OL movement and backfield mechanics look EXACTLY the same on both plays, leaving defenders without a reliable visual key.

We talked about curl-flat and Jet Sweep series, but this concept needs to be built into everything you do, regardless of your offense flavor.

Obviously the ability to execute is paramount, but winning football games against good competition comes down to details. That guy running the Jet needs to move at the same pre-snap speed and purpose whether he is getting the ball or not. We can’t cheat initial movements too much (though a little may be advisable in certain situations), and especially if we do not have a GOOD REASON for it.

Again, great stuff from Mr. Seay.

NEW NOTE:

I appreciate the comments.

Per Mr. Seay's invitation, here is a link to some new WB material:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/25907198/Wild-Bunch-5-0-2010

Enjoy it.......I know I will!

Rihanna Is A Bad "Girl"

Chris Brown is a crazy asshole. There is just not doubt about that, especially after his latest episode of breaking a window with a chair at "Good Morning America". That being said, after reading Rihanna's quotes is Rolling Stone you have to start questioning if these two just beat the shit out of each other all the time.

“I like to be spanked. Being tied up is fun. I like to keep it spontaneous,” the Barbados-born pop star told Rolling Stone. But Rihanna draws the line at using hardware. “Sometimes whips and chains can be overly planned – you gotta stop, get the whip from the drawer downstairs. I'd rather have him use his hands (FoxNews)."

Chris Brown obviously took it wayyyy too far, but these two must have been just crazy at night. He obviously has no problem "slapping" a woman, and Rihanna seems to love that shit. Anyways, that's pretty hot that you're basically allowed to do whatever you want to this "chick" in the sack, but I still think she's a dude, so this story grosses me out.

Jermaine O'Neal Back Thursday?

"Boston Celtics C Jermaine O’Neal, who has played in just 17 games this season and has been out since Jan. 10 after having arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, said he’ll be ready to play Thursday night in San Antonio. Coach Doc Rivers, however, declined to confirm that.

“I’m able to go," O’Neal said, according to the Boston Globe. “No limitations.”

Rivers said, “I think Jermaine has his own personal time clock. ... There’s a chance (he could play Thursday), but I doubt it (AOL SportNews).”

Ugh, I can't believe I am about to write this, but the Celtics really need this guy back. Their lack of bigs has been killing them, and honestly getting him or Shaq back could breathe some new life into this team. They have been nothing short of pathetic lately, and although my hatred for Jermaine is pretty damn high, he should be very fresh and add some interior defense.

Do I think we will see Jermaine Thursday? For some off reason I actually do.

I am still waiting on word about Shaq, but those reports seem to be few and far between lately.

Kentucky/Jay-Z In Trouble?

"Ken Berger of CBSSports.com reports the NBA is planning to investigate how Nets minority owner Jay-Z interacted with some of the players on the Kentucky Wildcats last weekend. It is against NBA rules for a person associated with a team to fraternize with college players and their families. Jay-Z reportedly took pictures with some of the players after they beat North Carolina and there is video of the event. That could lead to a fine from the NBA (ESPN)."

I doubt that this will be that big of a deal. It actually happened in 2007 with Danny Ainge, and it was just a $30,000 fine, which is what Jay-Z probably spends on his toothbrush. I am sure this will get a lot of play on ESPN, but he really didn't do anything wrong. He is a famous rapper, and was watching a basketball game. You better believe all those guy wanted a picture with him. Wouldn't you?

With The 6th Pick In the 2011 NFL Draft the Cleveland Browns Select.....

DP's Pick:
Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson

This is a steal at 6. Many projected him to be the 1st overall pick and now that they are going to a 4-3 scheme. Bowers is a great fit for that, he has power and quickness and be a perfect slot in there. The Browns have a lot of needs but they need to get that D Line fixed. If I were the Browns it would be very hard not to select Patrick Peterson.

BMack's Pick:
Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

There was a time when most people thought Fairley would go #1, but there have been so many questions about his motor that he is starting to fall in mock drafts. He will only fall so far, and he shouldn't go past this pick. Bowers would also be a good pick, but I think Fairley has more upside. I have said it before and I'll say it again, if you want to fix a defense it starts with the big guy in the middle, and when Fairley is going 100% there isn't anyone better in the draft. Fairley can stop the run, rush the QB, and teams will have to commit to double teaming him throughout the game. That can open up some pass rushing lanes for DEs and LBs.

Why Not?

Why not watch 2 babies talking. I laughed.

MLB Preview: New York Yankees

2010 Record: 95-67

Offense:
SS Derek Jeter
CF Curtis Granderson
1B Mark Teixeira
3B Alex Rodriguez
2B Robinson Cano
RF Nick Swisher
DH Jorge Posada
C Russell Martin
LF Brett Gardner

This lineup will obviously be in the top 5 of the league there is no doubt about that. All of their players can be very dangerous when healthy, however, the Yankees do have a window when it comes to the players they have. Teixeira, A Rod and Jeter will all get old as their prime is in the rear view mirror. But for this year, they will be fine. If Jeter struggles out of the gate look for Brett Gardner to take the lead off spot. The Teixeira, A Rod, Cano gauntlet is stupid, any of those guys could be a MVP and can all change a game very fast. Posada at DH should help his production too.

Rotation:
LHP CC Sabathia
RHP Phil Hughes
RHP A.J. Burnett
RHP Ivan Nova
RHP Freddy Garcia

This is the negative. I don't believe in anyone but CC Sabathia. Hughes, Burnett, Nova and Garcia are all giant question marks. Hughes started real well but hit a giant wall come playoffs, they need him to be consistent through the whole year or they are doomed. AJ Burnett can have 15-18 wins or be the worst pitcher ever like he was last year. I like AJ but he's a spaceshot, if he can pitch to his potential he can have a very good year, however I'm skeptical. If Nova finished the year with 12 wins and a 4.5 era then the Yankees have a huge victory and the same can be said about Freddy Garcia.

Overall:
The Yankees line up is very good and will most likely going to lead the league in runs again. However the pitching is too suspect to win the AL East. The major factor the Yankees have is the trade factor, they have the prospects to get pretty much anyone.

91-71

NBA College to Pros List so far

So far Pittsburgh Junior Ashton Gibbs and Marylands Sophomore Jordan Williams will enter the NBA Draft.

Gibbs will not hire an agent and will have until May 8th to withdraw his name. Gibbs averaged 16.8 points this season, a career high, while shooting 49 percent from 3-point range. I like Gibbs a lot and even if he does withdraw his name it doesn't hurt to feel it out.

Williams averaged 16.9 points and 11.8 rebounds per game for the Terrapins this season and being a Center I feel he will get more looks than Gibbs.

If I were a decent college player I would apply to the draft every year. It doesn't make sense not to, that's why Jared Sullingers decision to come back is the worst decision of his life. If he tears his ACL or hurts his knee his NBA career is over before it starts. The age limit is stupid and I applaud any kid that says fuck school whenever they want to go to the NBA.

This Pisses Me Off

This site http://eduhookups.com/ is a casual encounters/sex site for college kids. My question is, do college kids really need this? I mean what the fuck has the world come too? Getting laid shouldn't be this hard, and the casual encounters thing should be reserved for creepy old people from craigslist. I mean in college even people in the band get laid. College is just a giant pound town and doesn't discriminate on age, weight, height or how nerdy you are. As soon as you add alcohol and people they are going to fuck, it's a formula that has been dated back from the start of time. So is the world getting this pathetic where people are getting too lazy then to step out of their dorm go to any bar, party and pick up the fat chick? C'mon college kids kick it old school and entertain the beast at the bar.

Bruins 3, Blackhawks 0

On paper, wins over Montreal, Philadelphia, and Chicago in a 6 day span is pretty impressive. But Montreal were menstruating, the Flyers were flatter than Kiera Knightley, and the Blackhawks were sleepy. I watched the end of the Detroit/Chicago game on Monday, and it was a brutal grinder. So I'm not overly enthused about the Bruins' 3-0 win over the exhausted Hawks.

Then again, it's not as if the B's lost to a tired team. They did what needed to be done. And when Chicago was able to muster the strength to play hard, the Bruins matched their intensity.

Oh yeah, and Tim Thomas is unbelievable. His GAA dropped below 2 thanks to his 9th shutout of the season.

These have been nice wins, but they've hardly been tests. Which is why I'm not letting them influence my feelings about this team in the playoffs. Right now I'm just anxiously awaiting the start of the playoffs on April 13.

Shawn Thornton is a savage. He gets his forehead sliced open by a skate, then on his way to the bench someone from Chicago says the wrong thing (I'm guessing a tampon joke), and he wants to fight the guy.

Thornton received 40 stitches. He also said of the Blackhawks chirping at him: "If I ever find who it was, I'll deal with it my own way." And I believe him.

Bruins next play a team that will probably be very motivated. The Maple Leafs come to town on Thursday, only 5 points out of a playoff spot.

-The Commodore

Aqib Talib Could Be In Some Trouble (UPDATED)

"Buccaneers CB Aqib Talib is a person of interest in a March 21 Dallas-area domestic altercation in which five gunshots were allegedly fired. He hasn't been arrested and charged yet, but that could happen sometime later this week if police feel Talib was involved. Apparently, as reported by the Dallas Observer , the dispute involved Talib’s sister, his mother and his sister’s boyfriend, and two guns were involved. The police report states that Talib attempted to pistol-whip the boyfriend, who had been in an argument with Talib’s sister, and afterward, Talib fired a few shots from his mother's gun at the boyfriend as he fled the scene on foot (CBS Sports)."

If this is true it's really too bad. Talib is one of the best defensive backs in the NFL, and I don't think he has even reached his prime yet. Every year he has been in the NFL he has upped his total for interceptions, but this isn't the first time Talib has been in trouble either.

He missed the 2010 season opener, because he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy by throwing a drunken punch at a cab driver and resisting arrest. He also threw a punch at teammate Corey Boyd at the 2008 rookie camp, and hit a teammate in the face with his helmet during mini-camp in 2009.

So, basically it seems Talib might have a tiny bit of an anger problem. We'll keep you posted if they end up pressing charges.

***UPDATE***

"Police in a Dallas suburb have issued an arrest warrant for Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Aqib Talib accusing him of firing a gun at his sister's boyfriend (ESPN)."

Terrible news for the Buccaneers, this could affect how they draft next month, because at the very least it sounds like Talib will be suspended to start the season (if the Bucs don't just cut him).

Chick Of The Day

Today is Catherine Bell.

For more Catherine Click Here

Blackhawks @ Bruins Preview

No matter what the Bruins are in the playoffs, but the Blackhawks are going to have to fight till the end to get in. Chicago his currently in 8th place in the Western Conference just 3 points above Calgary for the last spot. Don't let them fool you though, this is a dangerous team.

The Blackhawks won it all last year, but the salary cap came back to bite them in the ass this year. Still, they have won 3 of their last 4 games, and it's not exactly like the Bruins have blowing the doors off teams. The Bruins won a close games against Philly last night out, which would seem impressive, but it was really a dull game that Philly seemed disinterested in.

The key for the Bruins is going to be shutting out the Blackhawks dynamic offense, which is led by Toews, Sharp, and Kane who all have more point then any Bruin. That has to scare the Bruins who have trouble scoring at times. I like Chara being able to slow these guys down, but the Bruins still struggle at times with turning the puck over in their own end. You do that against a team with this kind of offensive talent and you are going to get burned.

The Bruins are going to get a playoff effort out of Chicago as they make their push for the playoffs, and I just don't trust the Bruins to keep up. I wish I could say different, but you really just never know what kind of effort you are going to get from them. Hopefully I am wrong, but with this team you just never know.

Blackhawks win 4-3
Player of the Game: Jonathan Toews
Game starts at 7:30pm on Versus

Why Not?

Why not see why you should never let anyone borrow your phone?

Phone Fucker - watch more funny videos

Damnit Soccer Cut It Out!

Soccer just goes too far sometimes, from shooting their own goalie, riots in the stands and just their general douchebagerry. Once again, they haven't let us down...

"Friends brought a coffin with the body of a 17-year-old boy into a soccer match Sunday between Cucuta Deportivo and Envigado, according to Colombia Reports. Christopher Jacome, a big fan of Cucuta, was gunned down Saturday in a local park while playing soccer, according to the paper.Friends of Jacome took his body from the funeral home after the wake and brought it into General Santander Stadium for the game. "They don't let in the fanatics, but yes, a cadaver. This is the only part of the world where this has happened," Julio Rivera, medic for Cucuta, told the paper. Stadium officials say they will hold a meeting to find out who allowed the dead body to be brought to the match (FoxNews)."

I get that the kid was a big soccer fan, and was shot while playing soccer, but you do a moment of silence or something, not pass around his coffin during the game. The article references "Weekend at Bernie's", which is damn fitting, because the only way I see this being acceptable is if everyone was doing the Bernie while passing around the coffin.

Shawn Marion's Finger Is Gross

I just saw this on ESPN, and that thing is fucking gross. I guess he has jammed and dislocated so many time that it is permanently like that. I can't believe that he just leaves it like that. He says he has no plans to get it fixed, because he has full movement, but one would think once he retires he would get that thing fixed. Anyways, just something to watch for if you ever have a Mavs game on.

This Whole Rays Burglary Thing Gets Interesting

I am sure you guys all saw the story yesterday that the summer home of David Price, Evan Longoria, and Reid Brignac was broken in to. The burglars took a 60 inch HDTV, watches, jewelry, ect. I didn't think much of it, I mean shit happens. Then I read this today...

"But we hadn't heard about a certain "personal item" that belonged to Longoria. Nothing too important, you know, just your average run-of-the-mill ... AK-47 assault rifle. "It's a personal item," Longoria on Monday afternoon, before the Rays game against the Yankees at Steinbrenner Field. "Obviously they're going to say things that are taken. I think everything within the house is personal and we'll just leave it at that (Yahoo)."


Ummm, WTF? There is really no reason ever to have an AK-47. Honestly, lets think about this for a second. What are the reasons to have a gun?

Personal Protection - Well unless Cuba decides to invade Florida, I think he is all set with that much fire power.

Hunting - That's a little aggressive to take down a deer.

I have only come up with one idea. Evan Longoria is the Punisher. It makes sense. I don't really hear too much about what he does in the offseason, and I could totally picture him being a badass. Maybe him and Delonte can hangout and go all Mad Max on the South. Anyways, crazy story and I will not be asking Longoria for an autograph anytime soon.

With The 5th Pick In the 2011 NFL Draft the Arizona Cardinals Select.....

DP's Pick:
Von Miller OLB Texas A&M

With Arizona's 3-4 scheme and Joey Porter not coming back Von Miller can be an immediate impact rusher immediately. He has progressed maybe more than any other player in college football in one year. He his extremely athletic, fast and has a huge motor. He will be able to slide right in at Arizona.

BMack's Pick:
Von Miller OLB Texas A&M

I hate agreeing with DP, but of all the picks in the draft I feel most confident in this pick. If Von Miller (who might be the best player in the draft) falls this far the Cardinals have to pick him. Arizona's OLB are aging or nonexistent, and this is by far the best LB in the draft. He can rush of the edge, which is huge with a team playing a 3-4 defense. This guy could be the next Clay Matthews, and I really expect big things from him.