tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65623192024-03-06T22:56:26.074-08:00Vitamin ZMostly sports these days. You don't care about my politics, nor should you.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.comBlogger2123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-65459438772246684832011-05-01T22:24:00.000-08:002011-05-01T22:24:52.783-08:00<b>Bin Laden dead</b><br />
This is not a victory for President Obama, President Bush, or even for just the United States of America.<br />
<br />
It is a victory for the world. I congratulate everyone -- past and present -- who had a hand in this. The War on Terror does not end, and Usama bin Laden's death does not free the world of pain or of evil.<br />
<br />
But it's nice, on this evening, to know bin Laden will never be responsible for another innocent's death.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-47120675216528236312011-04-28T23:48:00.000-08:002011-04-28T23:48:55.474-08:00<b>The Browns Draft, the INDIANS and all that other stuff</b><br />
The Browns traded down, got an extra first and second round pick, and got a run-stopper from Baylor.<br />
<br />
Yeah, I feel pretty good about this. While Phil Taylor has entered the race with Joe Smith for the most generic name in Cleveland sports (Smith still is favored).<br />
<br />
Taylor is 6-foot-3 1/2,337 pounds. Basically, he gets weighed at truck stops. But moreso, he's a defensive tackle who can be paired with Ahtyba Rubin as part of a 4-3 allignment. <br />
<br />
I've heard the phrase "when motivated" applied to Taylor. I was getting Gerard Warren flashbacks, but then I remembered that the Browns are now being run by professional football minds, who turned in a strong 2010 draft.<br />
<br />
Overall, I'd call it a win. I wanted A.J. Green, the wide receiver at Georgia, but with him gone, I think the Browns gave themselves the best chance to be successful. Cleveland has nine picks in this year's draft. And unlike during the Eric Mangini years, they are not all backloaded.<br />
<br />
- The Indians are 16-8, have won 10 straight home games, and are 4 1/2 games ahead in the Central. It might be time to start taking them seriously.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-32770371803611003922011-04-27T22:54:00.000-08:002011-04-27T22:54:23.512-08:00<b>Baseball, in it's most wonderful form</b><br />
The Indians are 15-8, but the most impressive thing is that they've won nine consecutive home games. I'm not sure if they'll match what the 1994 squad did (18 straight home wins), but it's a start.<br />
<br />
The Indians still are not drawing. Even with a forecast for bad weather which, as it turned out, never materialized, the Tribe still ought to be able to bring in more than 9,000 fans.<br />
<br />
The numbers will get better, but that's not the point. I am beginning to wonder if the fans just don't like the organization for breaking up the team of the 90s, or, worse, if the economy has made this a two-sport (at best) town. <br />
<br />
Still, the pitching has been excellent. Carlos Carrasco became the second starter to go on the DL, which makes one wonder if the Tribe can get by relying on a seventh starter for any amount of time. <br />
<br />
Still, the team is winning right now, and that's all that matters.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-43599856923731059082011-04-24T23:16:00.000-08:002011-04-24T23:16:26.268-08:00<b>Casey Blake Watch</b><br />
Casey Blake is one of those guys who surprises you.<br />
<br />
Never a superstar, never really a prospect, he's a man who has made a career out of being good. He also appears to have done it out of pure willpower. From 2005-2007, I took great joy in looking for every error (defensively and otherwise) the guy would make, then ridiculing him for it.<br />
<br />
He represented everything I hated about the Indians at the time. He was average, but management insisted on telling us he was more than that. Tom Hamilton never had enough good things to say about him. He went to the same college as Eric Wedge, the Tribe's manager, and it seemed like Wedge was going to play him no matter how bad the slump.<br />
<br />
But Blake surprised me. In '05 and '07, he had horrible averages with runners in scoring position, but did everything else very well. He became a very good No. 2 hitter, and a better than average third baseman. By the end of '07, with the Indians in the playoffs and Blake a big part of their success, I finally admitted that Blake was a really good player.<br />
<br />
Then he hit into a big double play and made a key error in Game 7 of that year's ALCS.<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, Blake made a big contribution to the Indians, one that continues to this day. His trade to the Dodgers netted Carlos Santana, a future star catcher.<br />
<br />
Blake's in LA now, hitting .333 with two homers and six RBIs. There will always be a spot for him (or guys like him) on a team. He has earned all of his success.<br />
<br />
But no matter what, his doings on the field will always be tied to this blog in some way. He's earned that, too.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-85625035695484813442011-04-21T00:50:00.000-08:002011-04-21T00:50:18.866-08:00<b>Big comebacks</b><br />
Down 5-0 Tuesday, the Indians get within a hit of the lead. Down 2-0 Wednesday, with no baserunners through five innings, the Indians come back, and win 7-5.<br />
<br />
Maybe this is just a hot April. But the Indians are getting to the point where you never feel they are out of a game. This is what winning teams do.<br />
<br />
Justin Masterson looked like he was in for a rough game. Three walks, two runs, 31 pitches in the first inning. And then ...<br />
<br />
Five shutout innings.<br />
<br />
I still see Cliff Lee in Masterson. <br />
<br />
As far as everyone else... I love what Orlando Cabrera has brought to the Indians. Chris Perez is starting to remind me of Goose Gossage, a hard throwing righty who doesn't care. He makes a 3-pitch save and goes on Twitter. He grows a big beard and looks like the intimidating presence he is. <br />
<br />
The Indians are eight games over 500, and are off to their best start since 1999, when they won the division.<br />
<br />
No one knows where this is going. <br />
<br />
But it sure is fun right now.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-9225160010325350152011-04-18T23:32:00.000-08:002011-04-18T23:32:39.791-08:00<b>The INDIANS</b><br />
If this were football, the Indians would have locked up a first round bye and probably would be hosting the Packers at Progressive Field.<br />
<br />
Sadly, it isn't. But the first 10 percent of this season has gone better than anyone could have imagined. The pitching has been better than it has been in four years. The hitting has been reasonably consistent, with Travis Hafner of all people among those leading the charge.<br />
<br />
But Monday night in Kansas City was a big deal -- it was the first time all season that the Indians fell behind and came back to win. And the Indians bullpen, despite some control issues, got it done.<br />
<br />
No one can talk pennant yet, but did anyone believe the Indians would be eight games over .500 at any time this season?<br />
<br />
If the season ended today, Manny Acta would be manager of the year and Justin Masterson would get Cy Young votes. It doesn't, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy things right now.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-55763958376494265122010-12-19T22:51:00.000-08:002010-12-19T22:51:59.445-08:00<b>10 quick (and I mean really quick) thoughts on the Browns</b><br />
1. Up 7-0, and with a fourth and two at the Bengals 40, the 5-8 Browns punt, thinking it'd be a close game. Then they manage to lose yardage at the end of the half and have to punt. Then they kick a field goal on fourth and one deep in Bengals territory down 9. If this is Eric Mangini's version of playing to win, I'd hate to see what other modes there are.<br />
<br />
2. Hate to say it, but I hope Josh Cribbs is hurt. I'd never question his desire,his effort or his intensity, but he honestly looks a half step slower this year. He's my favorite player, but I am worried about him.<br />
<br />
3. The Browns touchdowns went to Robert Royal and Brian Robiskie. Think about the odds of that happening.<br />
<br />
4. The Bengals tried to give the game away late; the Browns wouldn't take it.<br />
<br />
5. Not sure how anyone can look at a losing season that included defeats to Buffalo and Cincinnati and ascertain progress from last year.<br />
<br />
6. Yes, I remember New Orleans and New England. But I also remember the win over Carolina.<br />
<br />
7. You can't take away Mangini's success in October and November. He'll always have New Orleans and New England.<br />
<br />
8. Romeo Crennel will always have the Seattle and Giants games. Butch Davis will always have Baltimore and Atlanta. Chris Palmer always has Pittsburgh.<br />
<br />
9. Colt McCoy looks good, but I'm not ready to hand him Otto Graham's jersey yet. But yes, he should be the starter in 2011.<br />
<br />
10. I blame LeBron James for this season being so depressing.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-10517662640453569262010-12-13T01:30:00.000-08:002010-12-13T01:30:13.002-08:00Bills 13, Browns 6<br />
The Browns are a team that runs the football.<br />
<br />
The Bills have one of the worst run defenses in the league. So why did the Browns manage only a pair of field goals?<br />
<br />
The playcalling was bizarre. The Browns would run twice, get a third and three, then pass and await disaster. This pattern happened several times.<br />
<br />
Jake Delhomme's at the end of the road. The only thing I know for sure is that Delhomme fits in this offense poorly. So do all the receivers. The veteran probably isn't capable of being a starting quarterback anymore. <br />
<br />
The thing is, people blame the offensive coordinator for the woes. I'm not saying Brian Daboll is Lindy Infonte, but every call runs through Eric Mangini. This is his offense, and has been for two years.<br />
<br />
There's a chance the Browns could lose out. I think they have to win two of the team's three games left to save Mangini's job. Regardless, Daboll's done as coordinator after this year.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-58707131661826043662010-12-08T00:38:00.001-08:002010-12-08T00:39:28.383-08:00<b>Here we go</b><br />
-Just random thoughts about sports in general...<br />
<br />
- Eric Manginin needs to win three of the final four games to assure his spot as Cleveland's head coach next year. This is just my opinion. If he wins two games and goes 7-9, he has a shot to stay. Anything less and Mike Holmgren will be itching to either pick his own man, or take over. <br />
<br />
I do believe the Browns are improving. But improvement can continue with a new head coach.<br />
<br />
- I was reminded of a quote from one of my personal heroes, Chandler Bing, who once said "It's like someone wrote out my worst nightmare, and charged me $35 to see it." <br />
<br />
I didn't suffer such an indignity, but the people of Cleveland who packed the Q less than a week ago did. The Heat destroyed the Cavaliers, and since, the Cavs have lost every game and Miami has won every one. Some believe the Heat are clicking, but I don't think anyone expected them to not make the playoffs or finish in the top four of the Eastern Conference. The test for Miami will be Boston, Orlando, Los Angeles. The Heat will be a disappointment every year they don't win the NBA title.<br />
<br />
- The Steelers win games they shouldn't, and Sunday was an example. Baltimore was my pick to win the Super Bowl, but its defense has struck me as just OK. The Falcons, the Steelers, the Bills have all scored late to extend or win games. Is Ray Lewis slowing down? I sure hope so.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-51196176391413572962010-11-02T23:59:00.000-08:002010-11-02T23:59:22.862-08:00<b>10 things about the Browns</b><br />
1. I feel better about Eric Mangini now as coach than I have at any time during his tenure.<br />
<br />
2. But Mangini still needs to find a way to win one of the next two games. He will have a hard time keeping his job if the team is 2-7 through nine games.<br />
<br />
3. What did I love most about the Saints game? Reggie Hodges' fake punt. The Saints didn't think the Browns had the guts to do it, and it changed the whole game.<br />
<br />
4. I'm not sold on Colt McCoy as the future. The kid has a lot of poise and has had an impressive couple of games. But he hasn't been John Elway. Good start? Yes. But let's not get too excited.<br />
<br />
5. Randy Moss? No. No... no.<br />
<br />
6. The Browns primary needs for the upcoming draft? An impact receiver, more help in the secondary, and a linebacker who isn't a defensive lineman from Hawaii.<br />
<br />
7. I still worry about Peyton Hillis staying healthy with his punishing style.<br />
<br />
8. The much maligned secondary deserves credit for not allowing the big plays to the Saints. <br />
<br />
9. Brian Daboll coached the game of his life.<br />
<br />
10. I really don't know where this season in going. I could see 8-8, and I could see 5-11.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-2981239953938022942010-11-02T23:49:00.000-08:002010-11-02T23:49:15.108-08:00<b>Post election thoughts</b><br />
Though I suppose it's not really post, since some elections still are being decided.<br />
<br />
So John Kasich is in (the He Worked On Wall Street and He Worked for Lehman Brothers campaigns being mildly successful in that they made the race close)and Ted Strickland is out.<br />
<br />
Really, I think things turned for the governor when he backed Hillary Clinton before the 2008 presidential primaries. He backed the loser in that race, and thus, had no shot to be then-candidate Obama's running mate (why he chose Joe Biden will be a question bothering historians for centuries).<br />
<br />
Strickland then was left in Ohio, where jobs were being lost and the economy was suffering. I don't think he can be blamed for all of it, but when you are the top man in state government, that is where the blame usually falls.<br />
<br />
I really believe he wanted to be Sen. Clinton's running mate, and honestly, with a favorable rating from gun owners, he'd have been a strong choice for her had she made it that far.<br />
<br />
But he was left behind. He didn't have much of a record to run on. I know this because if he did, he would have. Instead, I saw one positive Stickland ad for every 20 negative Kasich ads. Hey, Kasich was just as negative. But it's easier to play that role as the challenger.<br />
<br />
I will say one positive thing about Strickland: He looks great for 69. I don't know where he goes from here. <br />
<br />
But I can't say I'm upset about him not going back to the state capital.<br />
<br />
-Harry Reid won. Ugh. That guy has nine lives.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-43243174145897446472010-11-02T00:19:00.000-08:002010-11-02T00:19:54.672-08:00<b>10 things about the election</b><br />
1. I support John Kasich for governor of Ohio.<br />
<br />
2. My feeling on the Ted Strickland tenure has been much the same as my feelig about the Democrats right now: Too much spending, not enough restraint, not enough say from the people. In at least one case, Strickland tried to override the vote of the people. He lost my vote there.<br />
<br />
3. I think the Republicans will win the House and close the gap in the Senate.<br />
<br />
4. This is not a year for Republicans. It's a year of the independent voter saying they want less spending. There are not enough Republicans or right wingers (like me) to make this type of difference.<br />
<br />
5. If I had to guess, I'd say Strickland pulls out the election. Kasich hasn't connected enough with voters, and I imagine the barrage of negative ads on Kasich's ties to Lehman Brothers will have an effect.<br />
<br />
6. I though John Kerry would win in '04. I tend to be as negative in my political outcomes as I am in Cleveland sports. The only difference is that when it comes to Cleveland sports, I am always right.<br />
<br />
7. I have heard Sharron Angle is a tad crazy. Which would make it all the more humorous if she STILL beats Harry Reid.<br />
<br />
8. Linda McMahon will lose in her Connecticut Senate bid. That's obvious.<br />
<br />
9. I am a conservative guy. I believe in small government and personal liberty. But no matter what the results of Tuesday are, it's important not to misread the mandate. The message is that Democrats have overspent. Republicans who get elected must push to cut spending,not overspend on projects THEY like. <br />
<br />
10. I don't believe this election will mean much for 2012. Nor should it.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-20824702400295201532010-10-07T23:24:00.000-08:002010-10-07T23:24:16.246-08:00<b>Browns 23, Bengals 20</b><br />
The Browns probably won't win many games this season. But at this point, I'll settle for some division victories and some Cincinnati Humble Pie (but please, Reds, win).<br />
<br />
It wasn't pretty, but the Browns aren't capable of winning pretty. Most teams in the NFL are better than Cleveland. To beat most teams, the Browns will need to ugly it up, capitalize on mistakes, and plow with a strong running game.<br />
<br />
Peyton Hillis is not Jim Brown. He may not even be Leroy Hoard. But he's effective enough, and he'll hit people. T.J Ward isn't exactly polished, and he deserved to be penalized for his hit Sunday. But I'd like to see the announcers who came down hard on him do the same to Hines Ward or Ray Lewis. Both make hits like that consistently. <br />
<br />
Seneca Wallace isn't a starter, but he was effective enough on Sunday to win. Matt Roth isn't a superstar, but he has established himself as someone who can be counted on to make plays.<br />
<br />
The Browns will steal some games this year, and they shouldn't have to apoligize for that. Bad teams have to win ugly. The Bengals offense tore the Cleveland D to shreds in the second half. But the Browns found a way, giving hope that maybe, just maybe, the Browns can finish.<br />
<br />
That was a good thing to see.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-54743613942820494222010-09-27T08:12:00.000-08:002010-09-27T08:12:18.102-08:00<b>Ravens 24, Browns 17</b><br />
Don't try and spin this game as a positive. Just don't.<br />
<br />
Seneca Wallace flips the ball when no flip is expected. <br />
<br />
Matt Roth jumps offsides on a third and four with the game on the line.<br />
<br />
Stupid penalties.<br />
<br />
Eric Wright can't cover. But why was he out there in 1-on-1s?<br />
<br />
Rob Ryan keeps dialing up blitzes, but no one ever gets to the quarterback. The Browns have a third and two and Peyton Hillis, the Browns best player on Sunday, is off the field.<br />
<br />
Yes, things looked better. But there are no moral victories in the NFL. The Browns have given great efforts in these games before.<br />
<br />
You need to win to prove progress. That's it.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-68117465401510648642010-09-23T23:40:00.000-08:002010-09-23T23:40:40.452-08:00<b><strike>Phil's</strike> Zach's NFL Picks, week 3</b><br />
Phil is on vacation this week, so I am filling in as best I can.<br />
<br />
Sunday games<br />
<br />
1 p.m.<br />
San Francisco at Kansas City<br />
The overachievers vs. the underachievers. I don't want to be in the 49ers locker room if they go 0-3. 49ers.<br />
<br />
Detroit at Minnesota<br />
People actually are wondering if Brett Favre regrets coming back. As if his return has anything to do with the team's performance. It's always about Brett, and always about prolonging his time in the spotlight. Vikings.<br />
<br />
Cleveland at Baltimore<br />
The Browns won't score a TD on Baltimore's defense (I don't think). Ravens.<br />
<br />
Buffalo at New England<br />
If a team ever wants to pull a huge upset and shock people, it's Buffalo. <br />
Patriots.<br />
<br />
Atlanta at New Orleans<br />
Drew Brees strikes a blow for undersized people everywhere. Saints<br />
<br />
Tennessee at the Giants<br />
These teams are coming off retched performances. Eh, NY is at home. Giants.<br />
<br />
Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay<br />
The Buccaneers magic runs out. Steelers.<br />
<br />
Cincinnati at Carolina<br />
Nice to see TO and Ochocinco putting football first. Bengals.<br />
<br />
Dallas at Houston<br />
Matt Schaub is the best QB few talk about. I like Wade Phillips, and no one seems to realize his hands are tied. Texans<br />
<br />
4 p.m.<br />
Washington at St. Louis<br />
The good news for Washington is if i get a 20-point lead this week, they have a better chance of holding it. Redskins.<br />
<br />
Philadelphia at Jacksonville<br />
Kevin Kolb's 15 minutes are up in Philadelphia. Really, time it. Eagles.<br />
<br />
Indianapolis at Denver<br />
Peyton Manning against THAT defense? Yeah. Colts.<br />
<br />
Oakland at Arizona<br />
If Oakland is as good as they've fooled some people into thinking, they have to win games like this. Raiders.<br />
<br />
San Diego at Seattle<br />
The Chargers are just better here. Chargers.<br />
<br />
8:20 p.m.<br />
Jets at Miami<br />
Braylon Edwards' "punishment" only gives him time to Tweet about his movie prospects. Jets.<br />
<br />
Monday, 8:30 p.m.<br />
Green Bay at Chicago<br />
Lovie Smith has to feel like the luckiest guy in the world. No way Chicago is this good. It stops now. Packers.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-7963010522493654722010-09-22T21:01:00.002-08:002010-09-22T21:07:46.732-08:00<strong>Edwards</strong><br />Braylon Edwards made a very irresponsible decision, after a number of other ones. I can't help but think that unless someone (or something) steps in, Edwards could end up hurting someone with his recklessness. <br /><br />But the New York Jets have really hurt themselves here. To not even try to suspend Edwards for a game sends but one clear message: No matter how badly you screw up, we will have your back.<br /><br />That may breed loyalty, but it also sends a message that there will be no discipline for big mistakes.<br /><br />I don't have any sympathy for the Jets for what could come from that message.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-6143474524525872922010-09-19T22:13:00.002-08:002010-09-19T22:30:32.981-08:00<strong>Chiefs 16, Browns 14</strong><br />So here's what I'm thinking.<br /><br />The Browns never really improved last season. They were aided by the fact that they played sub-standard teams playing out the string.<br /><br />This year, the Browns improved, but so did everyone else. The Browns went from an F to a D+, and that's not enough to beat confident teams with a singular vision.<br /><br />I can't take credit for the point I'm about to express -- my brother actually made it first. Eric Mangini and Brian Daboll are running a more pass-happy offense, because that's what Mike Holmgren knows, and that's what he and Tom Heckert started building in the offseason.<br /><br />But Eric Mangini's a run-first coach, and so you have a coach preaching a philosophy that isn't him. So that may be the problem.<br /><br />Or at least I hope it is, because if it isn't, this is a horrid, horrid team and positives are harder to find than last season. At least then, we knew the Browns weren't good, but they were playing very good teams... the Vikings, Ravens and, at the time, the Broncos. <br /><br />But the Browns just lost to the Buccaneers and Chiefs. Yes, they are each 2-0 now. But neither team is the Ravens, Steelers or Bengals caliber. <br /><br />Rob Ryan's defense has played well in two games, but not well enough to cover for the offense.<br /><br />- Seneca Wallace was... mediocre. No receiver help, an inconsistent offensive line and no real effort to run the ball killed any chances of winning.<br /><br />And speaking of no chance of winning, the Browns are in Baltimore next week.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-82215410580587461212010-09-19T00:14:00.002-08:002010-09-19T00:37:57.073-08:00<strong>Phil's week 2 picks</strong><br />Cardinals (1-0) @ Falcons (0-1)<br />Struggling against the Rams suspect secondary cannot make fans in the desert very comfortable.<br />PICK: FALCONS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Matt Ryan over DA. Falcons</em> <br /><br />Ravens (1-0) @ Bengals (0-1)<br />Don't bet on Cincinnati sweeping this series for a second straight year.<br />PICK: RAVENS<br />Zach's thought: I just figure Cincinnati has to be revved up here. Bengals.<br /> <br />Chiefs (1-0) @ Browns (0-1)<br />The biggest difference between these two teams is Kansas City is getting a whole lot more out of their recent draft picks.<br />PICK: CHIEFS<br />Zach's thought: Things can't be that bad in C-town. Browns<br /> <br />Bears (1-0) @ Cowboys (0-1)<br />Chicago is a play away from being 0-1 while Dallas is a play away from being 1-0.<br />PICK: COWBOYS<br />Zach's thought: Whoever plays less worse wins. Cowboys.<br /> <br />Eagles (0-1) @ Lions (0-1)<br />Both teams have quarterback issues. Taking Detroit with Stafford out of the lineup is hard to do.<br />PICK: EAGLES<br />Zach's thought: Vick whispers get louder. Eagles<br /> <br />Bills (0-1) @ Packers (1-0)<br />Losing Ryan Grant is a blow to Green Bay, but should still be able to win here rather easily.<br />PICK: PACKERS<br />Zach's thought: Trap game here, but I still like the Pack. Packers.<br /> <br />Steelers (1-0) @ Titans (1-0)<br />No Ben Roethlisberger, no chance here.<br />PICK: TITANS<br />Zach's thought: Nate Washington has something to prove. Titans.<br /> <br />Dolphins (1-0) @ Vikings (0-1)<br />The schedule makers did Miami no favors, having them open the first two weeks of the season on the road with the second game being against a Minnesota team with 10 days rest.<br />PICK: VIKINGS<br />Zach's thought: There may be something to the idea that Favre is done. Vikings. <br /><br />Buccaneers (1-0) @ Panthers (0-1)<br />This game isn't on local TV? Oh darn.<br />PICK: PANTHERS<br />Zach's thought: Jimmy Clausen... maybe. Panthers.<br /> <br />Seahawks (1-0) @ Broncos (0-1)<br />When in doubt, pick the home team. And yes, I'm in doubt here.<br />PICK: BRONCOS<br />Zach's thought: Pete Carroll's Richard Simmons act will get old fast. Broncos.<br /> <br />Rams (0-1) @ Raiders (0-1)<br />The black hole should be able to rattle rookie QB Sam Bradford.<br />PICK: RAIDERS<br />Zach's thought: The Los Angeles Memorial Bowl goes to the Raiders.<br /> <br />Patriots (1-0) @ Jets (0-1)<br />Upset Special. I hate using the term "must win" in week 2, but New York cannot afford to open the season with two straight losses at home.<br />PICK: JETS<br />Zach's thought: For people who think the Jets are awesome... they lost to the Bills last year. Patriots.<br /> <br />Jaguars (1-0) @ Chargers (0-1)<br />Opening the season on the road, against a revved up divisional team, in lousy weather gives San Diego a Mulligan for their week 1 performance.<br />PICK: CHARGERS<br />Zach's thought: San Diego didn't look right. Chargers.<br /> <br />Texans (1-0) @ Redskins (1-0)<br />No team looked worse in victory last week than Washington.<br />PICK: TEXANS<br />Zach's thought: Good teams win these. I believe the Texans are a good team. Texans.<br /> <br />SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL<br />Giants (1-0) @ Colts (0-1)<br />Who are the quarterbacks for this game? I forgot....really wish the media would remind me.<br />PICK: COLTS<br />Zach's thought: Will there PLEASE be a Sony commercial where Peyton Manning beats up Justin Timberlake? Colts.<br /> <br />MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL<br />Saints (1-0) @ 49ers (0-1)<br />Some free advice: if you are in an eliminator/survivor pool, take New Orleans this week.<br />PICK: SAINTS<br />Zach's thought: This looked like a good idea at the time. Saints.<br /> <br />LAST WEEK 8-8<br />Z: 9-7Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-36159998321108383772010-09-15T11:01:00.002-08:002010-09-15T11:14:46.152-08:00<strong>5 things I think</strong><br />1. The Reds drew 12,000 to a game this week. The first-place Cincinnati Reds, in the city where pro baseball was born, drew 12,000 to a game. All I can figure is the economy is so bad that sports fans in the city could only pay to support one team, and the Bengals seemed like the best bet for a winner when families were making out there budgets.<br /><br />2. Speaking of the Bengals, Chad Ochocinco has a forgettable game Sunday against the Patriots, the Cincinnati gets smoked, and Chad is... on WWE Raw the next night. I seriously question his commitment to winning.<br /><br />3. Speaking of WWE, Linda McMahon has closed the gap in the Connecticut Senate race. I'm a lifelong conservative, and 99 times out of 100, Republicans better represent my views. But this is one case where I'd vote Democrat. In the business McMahon is in, too many young men and women have died because they felt pressure to artificially enhance their bodies or because the lifestyle of a wrestler was too difficult for them to stay clean. McMahon and her husband don't hold all the blame for this, but they hold enough of it so that McMahon should not be elected senator.<br /><br />4. Jake Delhomme was really hurt Sunday. If he can't play, it'll be another Cleveland season -- never sure who your quarterback is from week to week.<br /><br />5. Teams have had seasons wrecked by poor special teams play. Ohio State fans need to keep that in mind.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-31035995236586484162010-09-13T21:33:00.003-08:002010-09-13T22:05:04.187-08:00<strong>Around the NFL. 32 Thoughts, one for each team</strong><br />AFC East<br />Buffalo Bills: The Bills are stuck in a dryer and someone keeps pressing the "mediocre" button.<br /><br />Miami Dolphins: Maybe they can convince LeBron to own part of the team if they promise to quit when they reach the playoffs.<br /><br />New England Patriots: Randy Moss needs to clean that San Francisco Giants hat.<br /><br />New York Jets: I haven't anything more hyped with less immediate results than that guy I promised I wouldn't rip on.<br /><br />AFC North<br />Baltimore Ravens: No one gets more excited about doing so little than Ray Lewis.<br /><br />Cincinnati Bengals: Maybe Chad and Terrell were too busy tweeting to realize the regular season had started.<br /><br />Cleveland Browns: Leading the league in change without difference.<br /><br />Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Roethlisberger has to be wondering why he asked for a suspension reduction, since it's not like he'll be needed to beat the Browns in Week 6.<br /><br />AFC South<br />Indianapolis Colts: They preseasoned week 1.<br /><br />Houston Texans: The uniforms still are ugly.<br /><br />Tennessee Titans: Beating the Raiders at home is about as challenging as changing the channel.<br /><br />Jacksonville Jaguars: Well, Tebow left, so season's over.<br /><br />AFC West<br />Oakland Raiders: Tom Cable just used scowl number 9.<br /><br />San Diego Chargers: Philip Rivers just called me to whine about this post.<br /><br />Kansas City Chiefs: Steve Perry just called Todd Haley to get his hairstyle back.<br /><br />Denver Broncos: Brady Quinn doesn't even put Brady Quinn in while playing Madden.<br /><br />NFC East<br />New York Giants: Looking for a new head coach because yesterday's win wasn't convincing enough.<br /><br />Philadelphia Eagles: Uniforms from 1960, offense from 2001.<br /><br />Dallas Cowboys: It's not Wade Phillips' fault that Tony Romo flipped the ball to a running back to get gang tackled on the last play of a half.<br /><br />Washington Redskins: Washington is way ahead of other teams. They already have made 15 percent of their season win total.<br /><br />NFC North<br />Minnesota Vikings: Brett Favre wants to watch Matlock.<br /><br />Chicago Bears: Stealing a win at home against a bad team is no way to go through life.<br /><br />Green Bay Packers: AJ Hawk and Brady Quinn have a lot of time to text.<br /><br />Detroit Lions: Calvin Johnson wasn't allowed to catch his plane because he stopped to admire the cab ride to the airport.<br /><br />NFC South<br />Tampa Bay Buccaneers: It's nice they brought in Jake Delhomme to mentor Josh Freeman.<br /><br />Carolina Panthers: John Fox has realtors plugged into his cell.<br /><br />Atlanta Falcons: Who was that guy dressed as Matt Ryan?<br /><br />New Orleans Saints: Drew Brees just got a call from Philip Rivers, who whined about something.<br /><br />NFC West<br />San Francisco 49ers: Mike Singletary hates all quarterbacks.<br /><br />Seattle Seahawks: Pete Carroll just did a cartwheel after he got his mail.<br /><br />Arizona Cardinals: Derek Anderson has a smile on his face that only comes when you leave the Browns.<br /><br />St. Louis Rams: Fans of the Rams have been asked to be fans of the Rams.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-45013476461819948972010-09-12T20:09:00.002-08:002010-09-12T20:25:41.899-08:00<strong>Buccaneers 17, Browns 14</strong><br />This game was up, then down. Then very down. Then depressing.<br /><br />Peyton Hillis looked like he'd be getting a parade with his play early in this one.<br /><br />Then, he fumbled twice.<br /><br />Jake Delhomme looked sharp and was smart with the ball and moved the offense. <br /><br />Then he threw an interception worse than any Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn ever made.<br /><br />The defense was strong, not giving Josh Freeman anything easy and keeping an anemic Browns offense in the game.<br /><br />Then it blitzed a few times too many and paid the price.<br /><br />Josh Cribbs was a complete non-factor, and whenever that's the case, the Browns are in trouble.<br /><br />Bad player decisions, odd coaching decisions (a 62-yard field goal with a timeout and five seconds? Three timeouts in your pocket and a rushed fourth down?)and generally sloppy play turned this game into one of the more discouraging losses in some time.<br /><br />I felt going in that the Browns had to go 2-0 to have any shot at a decent season. Losing to a pathetic Tampa Bay team makes me think they may not have closed as much of the gap on the good teams in the AFC North as I thought.<br /><br />A loss to Kansas City next week and the voices will start up again about Eric Mangini and his future. Mike Holmgren can see the schedule as well as we can. He has to know that more efforts like the one today will sap any momentum gained by a generally positive offseason.<br /><br />Hillis' fumbles had two effects -- they killed a scoring chance and they removed him from the offense. I can't fault Mangini for benching him. But he was the Browns most consistent offensive player, and the team didn't look the same without him on the field.<br /><br />Delhomme has no excuse for the Ronde Barber interception. He's falling down and just needs to hold the ball or throw it away. The pass was desperation, and there was no need for it. Cleveland was up 11, it was in Bucs' territory, it was first down and the half was almost over.<br /><br />Barber's pick and the ensuing TD changed the game.<br /><br />It's a bad loss to a bad team, and there are few answers that would inspire fans that today was an exception and not the norm.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-77815571304525550302010-09-12T00:39:00.002-08:002010-09-12T00:51:29.986-08:00<strong>Show of solidarity is bad taste</strong><br />It's time to get something straight.<br /><br />On a night in New Orleans, players on the Saints and Vikings stood on the field and raised a finger to each other.<br /><br />Well, actually, not THE finger, but actually they raised their arms and made a No. 1 symbol. The meaning of this symbol will likely puzzle sociologists hundreds of years from now.<br /><br />In the year 3017:<br /><br /><em>Gelbo: Then, these titans raised their fingers in salute!<br /><br />Balkin: A sign to God?<br /><br />Gelbo: No.<br /><br />Balkin: A rememberence of the victims of tragedies?<br /><br />Gelbo: No.<br /><br />Balkin: A sign of peace?<br /><br />Gelbo: That's two fingers.<br /><br />Balkin: A sign of...<br /><br />Gelbo: It was the symbol of unity between some rich guys as their labor contract was up.<br /><br />Balkin: What a stupid society.</em><br /><br />Here's my problem with this: Near the nine-year anniversary of 9-11, the five year anniversary of Katrina, we have this: something planned and organized to signify something meaningful. But labor contracts for professional athletes are not meaningful. They're boring. And to people who paid hard-earned money to see the display of greed and self-importance, I am sorry.<br /><br />It'd be nice if players acted half as sincere about causes that actually mattered. It was a sign of solidarity, or it was supposed to be. But now, with thousands of Americans out of work, holding up one finger and looking serious was a sign of something else:<br /><br />Six-figure (at least) professional athletes can get money, but not a clue.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-59379307212227081142010-09-11T22:15:00.002-08:002010-09-11T22:34:30.977-08:00<strong>Phil's Week 1 picks</strong><br />SUNDAY GAMES<br />Dolphins @ Bills <br />Buffalo named rookie running back CJ Spiller was named a starter, which might be the only exciting thing to watch for in the Bills offense.<br />PICK: DOLPHINS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Bill Parcells leaving only tells me that football czars never last too long. Dolphins</em><br /> <br />Lions @ Bears<br />Upset special as the Bears have looked lost during the preseason games.<br />PICK: LIONS<br /><em>Zach's thought: But are they "lose to the Lions at home" lost? Bears.</em> <br /><br />Raiders @ Titans<br />Dating back to last season, Chris Johnson is going for his 12th straight game with 100 yards or more in rushing.<br />PICK: TITANS<br /><em>Zach's thought:Tiffin University's own Nate Washington starts his second season. For his sake, I thought he should have stayed in Pittsburgh. For my team's, I'm glad he bolted. Titans.</em> <br /> <br />Bengals @ Patriots <br />The latest coming from New England is that Randy Moss is unhappy. Once a diva, always a diva.<br />PICK: PATRIOTS<br /><em>Zach's thought: In Mike Zimmer I trust. Bengals.</em><br /><br />Panthers @ Giants <br />Fast fact: Carolina is fielding the NFL's youngest team this season with the average player being 25 years old.<br />PICK: GIANTS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Tom Coughlin is feeling heat from fans. He only pulled off the second-biggest upset in NFL history three years ago. Giants.</em><br /> <br />Falcons @ Steelers <br />Life without Ben Roethlisberger begins for four games.<br />PICK: STEELERS<br /><em>Zach's thought: I despise the Steelers. Falcons.</em> <br /><br />Browns @ Buccaneers<br />This will be Cleveland's first time opening a season on the road since returning to the NFL in 1999.<br />PICK: BROWNS<br /><em>Zach's thought: On paper, it should be easy. But paper is useless in week one. Browns.</em><br /> <br />Broncos @ Jaguars<br />Jacksonville sold this game out because fans wanted to see Tim Tebow, despite the fact he's only the backup QB.<br />PICK: BRONCOS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Pay to see a guy hold a clipboard? A 12-4 team doesn't excite the city, but Tebow does. Jaguars.</em><br /> <br />Colts @ Texans<br />Peyton Manning has had issues with the new rules during the exhibition games, but the feeling here is that he'll be ok on gameday.<br />PICK: COLTS<br /><em>Zach's thought: If the Texans don't develop into a contender this year, then the building process they've been working on for half a decade reads like a failure. Texans.</em><br /> <br />Cardinals @ Rams<br />Derek Anderson should be able to put up some big numbers against the Rams secondary.<br />PICK: CARDINALS <br /><em>Zach's thought: I could put big numbers against the Rams secondary. Cardinals.</em> <br /><br />Packers @ Eagles<br />Green Bay's secondary is hurting, missing two starters (Atari Bigby and Al Harris) out for the six games on the PUP list.<br />PICK: EAGLES<br /><em>Zach's thought: We each have Green Bay in the Super Bowl. I see them winning week one. Packers.</em><br /> <br />49ers @ Seahawks<br />Rumors that Mike Singletary is suiting up to play is completely unfounded.....for now anyway.<br />PICK: 49ERS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Does Singletary see Troy Smith as a potential starter, or did he pick him up because he just didn't like Nate Davis? Seahawks</em>.<br /> <br />SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL<br />Cowboys @ Redskins<br />I guess Donovan McNabb and Mike Shanahan make the Redskins a sexy prime time television pick. Too bad the rest of the rest is lousy.<br />PICK: COWBOYS<br /><em>Zach's thought: This probably will be boring. Cowboys.</em><br /> <br />MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL<br />Ravens @ Jets<br />Baltimore sent a clear message with the signing of TJ Houshmandzadeh in that they are prepared to win now.<br />PICK: RAVENS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Jets have overrated themselves. Some are buying it. Not me. Ravens.</em> <br /><br />Chargers @ Chiefs<br />Philip Rivers vs Matt Cassel seems to be a tad lopsided.<br />PICK: CHARGERS<br /><em>Zach's thought: Well, it's this vs. sleep. Chargers.</em>Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-86366681054440576692010-09-09T11:33:00.000-08:002010-09-09T11:34:55.374-08:00<strong>Phil Prusa's NFL Preview</strong><br />* indicates a wildcard team<br /> <br />AFC EAST<br /> <br />1. Patriots (10-6)<br />It's getting thin at the wide receiver position with Randy Moss getting older and Wes Welker coming back from an ACL injury.<br /> <br />2. Jets (9-7)<br />Darrelle Revis finally signed after missing the entire training camp and preseason due to a holdout. Mark Sanchez also has to prove he can carry a team into the playoffs.<br /> <br />3. Dolphins (8-8)<br />Will Brandon Mashall be the offensive weapon that gets Miami over the hump, or does he prove to be more of a locker room distraction?<br /> <br />4. Bills (5-11)<br />At least Chan Gailey should be safe from the chopping block in his first year as Buffalo's head coach.<br /> <br />Division overview: Expect a three team horse race for the AFC East Title that nay not be decided until the final week of the season.<br /> <br />AFC NORTH<br /> <br />1. Ravens (12-4)<br />If you don't know who Ray Rice is now, you'll know him by the end of the season. Just need the secondary to be competent now.<br /> <br />2. Bengals (11-5) *<br />It's put up or shut up for Cincinnati and Carson Palmer. After wanting more offensive weapons to work with, the Bengals went out and signed Terrell Owens among others.<br /> <br />3. Steelers (8-8)<br />Ben Roethlisberger's 4 game suspension hurts, but not as much as the offensive line, which has resembled a revolving door lately.<br /> <br />4. Browns (6-10)<br />Would be a one game improvement over last year, yet may not be enough to save Eric Mangini's job. The rebuilding process is tough playing in the rugged AFC North.<br /> <br />Division overview: I'm not predicting it, but could we could easily have three playoff teams coming from this division in 2010.<br /> <br />AFC SOUTH<br /> <br />1. Colts (12-4)<br />The Colts offensive should be just as good as ever, putting them into a 12 win or higher season.<br /> <br />2. Texans (10-6) *<br />My surprise wildcard team for 2010. Houston has been so close but not quite there for several years now and it's getting time to make that next step forward. If not, the team may have to re-evaluate the direction the team is heading.<br /> <br />3. Titans (8-8)<br />Vince Young at quarterback is a big question mark as to whether or not he can be a leader for Tennessee over the course of 16 games. He shown flashes, but not sustained success.<br /> <br />4. Jaguars (7-9)<br />Do they still have a team in Jacksonville? As of this writing, not one of their home games is sold out.<br /> <br />Division overview: Surprise surprise, I'm taking the obvious pick in Indy. However, the Texans getting a playoff spot may not be as popular.<br /> <br />AFC WEST<br /> <br />1. Chargers (11-5)<br />With fewer weapons of offense this year, it seems like San Diego is a Phillip Rivers injury away from losing the season completely<br /> <br />2. Broncos (7-9)<br />Losing Elvis Dumervil for the year to the IR hurts, but losing LenDale White is a big blow as well. Who carries the rock in Denver this year?<br /> <br />3. Chiefs (7-9)<br />After giving Matt Cassel the reins on their offense, Kansas City needs to get more of a return on their investment.<br /> <br />4. Raiders (6-10)<br />Not quite "Just Win Baby," but slowly, the Raiders are taking steps to get out of the NFL gutter. Tom Cable has survived longer than I ever would have imagined as Oakland's head coach.<br /> <br />Division Overview: Barring disaster, the Chargers should have little trouble securing the AFC West Title.<br /> <br />NFC EAST <br /> <br />1. Cowboys (12-4)<br />Can they become the first team to host the Super Bowl? There's little doubt Dallas can make the playoffs, but the real issue with Tony Romo and company is their play during the month of January. <br /> <br />2. Giants (10-6)*<br />Three years removed from their Super Bowl win, New York should be able to compete for a playoff berth, if not the outright divisional title. The secondary must stay healthy for a successful year, and that has been an issue of late.<br /> <br />3. Eagles (8-8)<br />The Eagles do not miss the playoffs because Kevin Kolb is the new starting quarterback. They miss the playoffs because the offensive is unable to protect him. Andy Reid's faith in Kolb should be rewarded if Philadelphia's management is patient.<br /> <br />4. Redskins (5-11)<br />Owner Dan Synder seems to be learning from his past mistakes, but past ghosts such as Albert Haynesworth will slow progress. Mike Shanahan has a major rebuilding job in his first year as the Redskins new head coach.<br /> <br />Division overview: Would not be a surprise if this division came down to the last week, though don't expect much from Washington this season.<br /> <br />NFC NORTH<br /> <br />1. Packers (11-5)<br />Aaron Rodgers proves he is the real deal and rewards the Packers faith in him this year. Green Bay's offense should be among the best in the NFL in regards to passing. <br /> <br />2. Vikings (10-6)*<br />Brett Favre's latest retirement fiasco had everyone groaning, but his return should solidify the Vikings as a legit contender in this division<br /> <br />3. Bears (8-8)<br />Big name free agents including Julius Peppers won't be enough to get this team back to the postseason for the first time since their Super Bowl XLI appearance. Lovie Smith's seat has never been hotter.<br /> <br />4. Lions (7-9)<br />Not quite a winning season, but Lions should get a spark with rookies Ndamukong Suh and Jahvid Best. At least Detroit have will have reason to hope.<br /> <br />Division overview: Green Bay vs Minnesota. The Brett Favre Bowl.<br /> <br />NFC SOUTH<br /> <br />1. Saints (12-4)<br />Drew Brees has emerged as a legit NFL MVP player after leading New Orleans to their first ever Super Bowl title last year. Can the defense have a repeat performance from 2009?<br /> <br />2. Falcons (9-7)<br />Getting Atlanta to another winning season will be a great accomplishment, but Matt Ryan will be judged on whether on not he can lead this team to the playoffs. He may have to wait at least one more year.<br /> <br />3. Panthers (7-9)<br />Basically a reboot year for Carolina as Matt Moore is keeping the QB seat warm for rookie Jimmy Clausen. John Fox is in his final year, thus a lame duck coach.<br /> <br />4. Buccaneers (4-12)<br />One of the youngest teams in the NFL will have some growing pains in 2010. In only his second year as head Coach, Raheem Morris may face some job security issues if there is a feeling the team is uninterested once the losing begins<br /> <br />Division overview: Some are a lot higher on Atlanta than I am. I see it a one horse race with the Saints crossing the finish line well before anyone else.<br /> <br />NFC WEST<br /> <br />1. Cardinals (9-7)<br />Ken Whisenhunt's latest gamble of naming Derek Anderson is starter is not that big a gamble when one considers the division they play in. Still, if Anderson falters, there may not be a safety net since the birds only have two rookie backup quarterbacks.<br /> <br />2. 49ers (8-8)<br />Good: San Francisco may host the best defense in the NFL. Bad: Alex Smith is still their starting QB and his career is past the point of salvage at this point in the bay area.<br /> <br />3. Seahawks (6-10)<br />This is the current state of affairs in Seattle: they cut TJ Houshmandzadeh after one year basically paying him 7 million in guaranteed money to leave town. Pete Carroll has a long road ahead as the new coach.<br /> <br />4. Rams (2-14)<br />Sam Bradford was named the starter the Rams despite he's a rookie. On the bright side, he doubles their win total with 2 victories this season! Wake up St Louis fans when baseball season starts.<br /> <br />Division overview: Worst overall division in the NFL. Yes, worse than the AFC West.<br /> <br />AFC DIVISIONAL WINNERS<br />Patriots <br />Ravens<br />Colts <br />Chargers<br />AFC WILDCARD TEAMS<br />Bengals <br />Texans<br /> <br />NFC DIVISIONAL WINNERS<br />Cowboys<br />Packers <br />Saints <br />Cardinals<br />NFC WILDCARD TEAMS<br />Giants <br />Vikings<br /> <br />SUPER BOWL XLV PREDICTION<br />Packers 20 Ravens 13<br />The monkey officially gets ripped off Aaron Rodgers back on February 6th, 2011.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6562319.post-1354393774840463802010-09-09T08:32:00.002-08:002010-09-09T08:37:32.194-08:00<strong>Montana negative on Rudy</strong><br />As someone who always is hard on "inspired by a true story" films, I got a chuckle out of Joe Montana's comments regarding <em>Rudy</em>.<a href="joe-montana-creates-a-controversy-by-debunking-rudy"></a><br /><br />Here's the thing: Even if it was a "joke" carrying Rudy off the field, Montana seems like your typical pretty-boy star player by knocking it.<br /><br />I have interviewed Rudy, and he was very honest about the fact that the movie is about the message.<br /><br />Sometimes I wonder if guys like Montana ever received it.Zachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344385023364633170noreply@blogger.com0