Tuesday, January 30, 2007
U.S. Crowns New Champions
At the U.S. Figure Skating Championships that wrapped up this weekend in Spokane, Wash., it was clear that change was in the air. When the competition concluded, new champions were crowned in three of the four disciplines. That's nothing new in the season following the Olympic year when many skaters leave the sport to pursue other interests or turn pro.
As expected, Belbin and Agosto won the ice dance competition with a new free dance to "Amelie." It was their fourth national title.
The big surprise was in pairs in which Brooke Castile and Benjamin Okolski, former Jr. champions, won the title over 2006 champions Rene Inoue and John Baldwin -- by less than one point.
In ladies, 2006 world champion Kimmie Meissner was favored to win over what many called a weak field. She won the title, but by less than one point over Emily Hughes. If Hughes had not fallen midway through her free skate, she may have upset Meissner.
America's New Quad King
But the talk of the competition and the marquee matchup was the rivalry between three-time U.S. champion Johnny Weir and two-time World bronze medalist, Evan Lysacek. The short program lived up to its billing with both skaters performing clean routines. Lysacek led by less than one point going into the free skate Saturday night. By the end of the night, it was no contest.
After opening his program with a quad toe-triple toe combination (which he had practiced only once before and did not do cleanly), Lysacek was off and running. He proceeded to complete eight triple jumps in all and skated flawlessly for the entire four-minute and 30-second program, bring the crowd to its feet. It is considered one of the best free skate performances in the history of the U.S. championships. I thought his free skate at the 2006 Olympics was pretty remarkable, but it pales in comparison to what he did Saturday night.
Weir followed immediately after with a sloppy program. When he fell midway through his program, he knew he lost the competion. He finished third behind Ryan Bradley, a good 35 points behind Lysacek, who won his first national title of his career.
The championship recap program will air next Sunday, Feb. 4 at 12:30 eastern time. The show will be worth checking out just to see Lysacek's performance. It was that good.
As expected, Belbin and Agosto won the ice dance competition with a new free dance to "Amelie." It was their fourth national title.
The big surprise was in pairs in which Brooke Castile and Benjamin Okolski, former Jr. champions, won the title over 2006 champions Rene Inoue and John Baldwin -- by less than one point.
In ladies, 2006 world champion Kimmie Meissner was favored to win over what many called a weak field. She won the title, but by less than one point over Emily Hughes. If Hughes had not fallen midway through her free skate, she may have upset Meissner.
America's New Quad King
But the talk of the competition and the marquee matchup was the rivalry between three-time U.S. champion Johnny Weir and two-time World bronze medalist, Evan Lysacek. The short program lived up to its billing with both skaters performing clean routines. Lysacek led by less than one point going into the free skate Saturday night. By the end of the night, it was no contest.
After opening his program with a quad toe-triple toe combination (which he had practiced only once before and did not do cleanly), Lysacek was off and running. He proceeded to complete eight triple jumps in all and skated flawlessly for the entire four-minute and 30-second program, bring the crowd to its feet. It is considered one of the best free skate performances in the history of the U.S. championships. I thought his free skate at the 2006 Olympics was pretty remarkable, but it pales in comparison to what he did Saturday night.
Weir followed immediately after with a sloppy program. When he fell midway through his program, he knew he lost the competion. He finished third behind Ryan Bradley, a good 35 points behind Lysacek, who won his first national title of his career.
The championship recap program will air next Sunday, Feb. 4 at 12:30 eastern time. The show will be worth checking out just to see Lysacek's performance. It was that good.
The World Says Good-bye to Barbaro
I was saddened to hear that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was euthanized Monday morning after complications resulting from the injuries he suffered during the Preakness Stakes last May. The horse's right leg was infected with laminitis last July, and doctors have been performing a series of surgeries to save it.
Barbaro had been doing well in December when doctors removed the cast from his foot and the horse's owners were hopeful that Barbaro would be able to return to his home stable in Pennsylvania. But Barbaro suffered a setback over the weekend, and despite two surgeries, vets decided it would be too painful to continue treatments. The folks at Churchill Downs are offering a burial place for him at their site in Kentucky.
Barbaro had been doing well in December when doctors removed the cast from his foot and the horse's owners were hopeful that Barbaro would be able to return to his home stable in Pennsylvania. But Barbaro suffered a setback over the weekend, and despite two surgeries, vets decided it would be too painful to continue treatments. The folks at Churchill Downs are offering a burial place for him at their site in Kentucky.
Welcome Back, Serena
It was a welcome sight to see Serena Williams at the top of her game during the Australian Open last weekend. After her brilliant victory over Maria Sharapova (6-1, 6-2) to win the title, Williams vaulted 67 places in the WTA rankings to 14. She entered the tournament ranked 81 and unseeded -- unfamiliar territory for Williams. Her defeat of Sharapova left no doubt that she had returned to her old form. It was encouraging to see in light of the fact that American women have largely been absent from the top of the standing for the past year because of injury. The victory also dispelled much of the criticism Williams received about being overweight and out of shape. Hopefully this is the shot in the arm that the American women need to regain their world dominance.
American Men Improve; Federer Still the Best
On the men’s side, Andy Roddick played superbly, showing how much he has improved his game and his mental attitude since working with his new coach Jimmy Connors. That is, until he met Roger Federer. Their showdown in the semifinals was supposed to show just how much Roddick had closed the gap between the two of them. However, Federer, who has been at the top of his game for the last three seasons, sliced up Roddick with amazing precision and eliminated the top American men’s player. Federer went on to win the Australian Open, his 10th Grand Slam title. He was the first player since Bjorn Borg in 1980 to win a tournament without losing a single set. It makes you wonder if anyone can beat this guy.
American Men Improve; Federer Still the Best
On the men’s side, Andy Roddick played superbly, showing how much he has improved his game and his mental attitude since working with his new coach Jimmy Connors. That is, until he met Roger Federer. Their showdown in the semifinals was supposed to show just how much Roddick had closed the gap between the two of them. However, Federer, who has been at the top of his game for the last three seasons, sliced up Roddick with amazing precision and eliminated the top American men’s player. Federer went on to win the Australian Open, his 10th Grand Slam title. He was the first player since Bjorn Borg in 1980 to win a tournament without losing a single set. It makes you wonder if anyone can beat this guy.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
U.S. Skating Championships Preview
The U.S. Figure Skating Championships get underway later this week in Spokane. Typically, in the first post-Olympic competitive season, the level of talent at Nationals can be somewhat thin due to retirements from the top skaters in each discipline. But that really hasn’t been the case this season. The ladies’ competition is probably most affected with Sasha Cohen taking time off to pursue her acting career and Michelle Kwan recovering from hip surgery while she attends college. That leaves current world champion Kimmie Meissner as the favorite to win gold. Because this is expected to be a wide open competition, it’ll be interesting to see how some of the younger skaters perform. Are they ready and willing to make that next big step forward?
In ice dance, Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto should repeat as national champions after winning silver at the Torino Olympics and third at Worlds in 2006. Ditto for Renee Inoue and John Baldwin in pairs.
The most compelling competition should be among the men where three-time U.S. champion Johnnie Weir will be challenged by current U.S. silver medalist Evan Lysacek. Weir is not having a good season so far. After finishing fifth at the Olympic Games in Torino and seventh at Worlds, his programs during the Grand Prix this past fall have been sloppy. If it weren’t for Jeffrey Buttle and current world champion Stephan Lambiel withdrawing from the Grand Prix series, Weir would not have made it to the GP final at all. Even then, Weir withdrew from the competition, claiming he had injured himself on a fall in his short program. Lysacek, on the other hand, finished the 2006 season with a bronze medal at Worlds and was skating well during the Grand Prix before a hip injury sidelined him from the finals. It will be interesting to see how both skaters will prepare for this competition, and if either of them is physically well enough to attempt a quad jump during their programs. Lysacek has the better free skate program and if he’s healthy, he should be the new U.S. men’s champion.
In ice dance, Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto should repeat as national champions after winning silver at the Torino Olympics and third at Worlds in 2006. Ditto for Renee Inoue and John Baldwin in pairs.
The most compelling competition should be among the men where three-time U.S. champion Johnnie Weir will be challenged by current U.S. silver medalist Evan Lysacek. Weir is not having a good season so far. After finishing fifth at the Olympic Games in Torino and seventh at Worlds, his programs during the Grand Prix this past fall have been sloppy. If it weren’t for Jeffrey Buttle and current world champion Stephan Lambiel withdrawing from the Grand Prix series, Weir would not have made it to the GP final at all. Even then, Weir withdrew from the competition, claiming he had injured himself on a fall in his short program. Lysacek, on the other hand, finished the 2006 season with a bronze medal at Worlds and was skating well during the Grand Prix before a hip injury sidelined him from the finals. It will be interesting to see how both skaters will prepare for this competition, and if either of them is physically well enough to attempt a quad jump during their programs. Lysacek has the better free skate program and if he’s healthy, he should be the new U.S. men’s champion.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Bears' Saintly Victory Sends Them to Miami
Excuse me while I gloat.
The Chicago Bears did many of the things I thought they would in their 39-14 pounding of the New Orleans Saints at snowy Soldier Field on Sunday. I wasn’t surprised to see the Bears win the NFC title game. It was how they won that impressed me.
I wrote in an earlier post that the Bears’ defense would bend but not break against the high-powered Saints offense. They’ll give up some yardage, but not the points. The Bears’ defense set the tone early by putting pressure on QB Drew Brees, who often looked confused and made some ill-advised plays. They gave up only 14 points to the league’s number one-ranked offense.
I also said weather would be a factor, and indeed, the Saints were ill-prepared for the snow, cold and sloppy grass at Soldier Field. The Saints practiced indoors all week, believing that the weather would not be as much of a factor as it was. While the Saints’ players had a difficult time getting any kind of solid footing on the cold, icy field, the Bears – who practiced outdoors much of the week – had few problems.
I said the Bears had plenty of reason to “play angry” on Sunday, and play angry they did. The Bears didn’t say much in the days leading up to the game, but they were miffed that so-called football experts picked the Saints to win the game. They proved just how miffed they were by performing with an intensity we have not seen since October.
I said if the Bears were to win this game, they needed to establish the running game early and consistently. It wasn’t a matter of taking the ball out of Rex Grossman’s hands so much as exploiting the Saints’ weakness -- their rush defense, which was ranked 23rd in the NFL during the regular season. A good running game and ball-control offense can do wonders to keep a high-powered offense like the Saints off the field. The Bears should do well in the Super Bowl using a similar strategy against Peyton Manning and the Colts, whose rushing defense is also suspect. If the Bears can rush for 196 yards against the Saints, imagine what they can do against the Colts' rushing defense that was the worst in the league.
So it wasn’t the tight, low-scoring game I thought it would be, although it almost did when Reggie Bush scored on an 88-yard TD early in the third quarter to close the gap to 16-14. I was partly right when I said that a special teams’ play would be the turning point, and the game would be decided by a field goal. One of the key plays came in the first quarter, when the Saints committed the first of their four turnovers on a fumbled punt return. The Bears recovered the ball deep in Saints territory, and finished their drive with a Robbie Gould field goal for a 6-0 Bears’ lead. At that point, the Bears established their dominance, and you could tell that they knew they had the Saints exactly where they wanted them. The Bears never looked back.
Now they can proudly look forward to a date with the Indianapolis Colts in Miami on Feb. 4 for Super Bowl XLI.
The Chicago Bears did many of the things I thought they would in their 39-14 pounding of the New Orleans Saints at snowy Soldier Field on Sunday. I wasn’t surprised to see the Bears win the NFC title game. It was how they won that impressed me.
I wrote in an earlier post that the Bears’ defense would bend but not break against the high-powered Saints offense. They’ll give up some yardage, but not the points. The Bears’ defense set the tone early by putting pressure on QB Drew Brees, who often looked confused and made some ill-advised plays. They gave up only 14 points to the league’s number one-ranked offense.
I also said weather would be a factor, and indeed, the Saints were ill-prepared for the snow, cold and sloppy grass at Soldier Field. The Saints practiced indoors all week, believing that the weather would not be as much of a factor as it was. While the Saints’ players had a difficult time getting any kind of solid footing on the cold, icy field, the Bears – who practiced outdoors much of the week – had few problems.
I said the Bears had plenty of reason to “play angry” on Sunday, and play angry they did. The Bears didn’t say much in the days leading up to the game, but they were miffed that so-called football experts picked the Saints to win the game. They proved just how miffed they were by performing with an intensity we have not seen since October.
I said if the Bears were to win this game, they needed to establish the running game early and consistently. It wasn’t a matter of taking the ball out of Rex Grossman’s hands so much as exploiting the Saints’ weakness -- their rush defense, which was ranked 23rd in the NFL during the regular season. A good running game and ball-control offense can do wonders to keep a high-powered offense like the Saints off the field. The Bears should do well in the Super Bowl using a similar strategy against Peyton Manning and the Colts, whose rushing defense is also suspect. If the Bears can rush for 196 yards against the Saints, imagine what they can do against the Colts' rushing defense that was the worst in the league.
So it wasn’t the tight, low-scoring game I thought it would be, although it almost did when Reggie Bush scored on an 88-yard TD early in the third quarter to close the gap to 16-14. I was partly right when I said that a special teams’ play would be the turning point, and the game would be decided by a field goal. One of the key plays came in the first quarter, when the Saints committed the first of their four turnovers on a fumbled punt return. The Bears recovered the ball deep in Saints territory, and finished their drive with a Robbie Gould field goal for a 6-0 Bears’ lead. At that point, the Bears established their dominance, and you could tell that they knew they had the Saints exactly where they wanted them. The Bears never looked back.
Now they can proudly look forward to a date with the Indianapolis Colts in Miami on Feb. 4 for Super Bowl XLI.
Olympic Bidding War Heats Up
I was amused to read a recent Chicago Tribune story about how California politicians, including Governor Arnold Schwarznegger, have been taking potshots at the city of Chicago during the bidding process for the 2016 Olympic Games. They argue that Los Angeles has the advantage over Chicago because of its warm, sunny climate.
Certainly the climate would be an advantage for LA if the Summer Olympic Games were held in January. But they’re not. They’re held in August.
I’m no weather expert and I’ve never been to Southern California during the summer, but I’m willing to bet that the weather in Chicago at that time of year is just as sunny, warm and humid as it is in LaLa Land. Climate is a non-factor.
Seriously, if this is LA’s best argument why they should host the 2016 Olympic Games, then Chicago’s chances are pretty good.
Certainly the climate would be an advantage for LA if the Summer Olympic Games were held in January. But they’re not. They’re held in August.
I’m no weather expert and I’ve never been to Southern California during the summer, but I’m willing to bet that the weather in Chicago at that time of year is just as sunny, warm and humid as it is in LaLa Land. Climate is a non-factor.
Seriously, if this is LA’s best argument why they should host the 2016 Olympic Games, then Chicago’s chances are pretty good.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Despite the Odds, Bears Do Have a Chance to Win
As I watched the 2006 NFL season unfold, I couldn't help but notice how football experts jumped on the bandwagon of whatever team was hot at the moment. For the first half of the season, the Bears were clearly the NFL's darlings. When they cooled off, the Dallas Cowboys got hot for a few weeks, and experts decided they were the team to beat en route to the Super Bowl. When they ran into problems, everone jumped on the the Philadelphia Eagles' bandwagon because they won five games in a row with backup QB Jeff Garcia.
Now the "team du jour" appears to be the New Orleans Saints, whom many football experts are picking to win today's NFC title game against the Chicago Bears. To hear the ESPN analysts talk, no one is giving the Bears a chance to win today, except perhaps former Bears' coach Mike Ditka. And the scores they're coming up with aren't even close -- 31-17 is common.
If I'm coach Lovie Smith, I'm using these "expert analyses" as psychological ammunition for the Bears. The "nobody believes in us" "we're the underdogs" mindset could actually help the Bears prepare mentally for this game. Last week, a couple of local fans put a sign up near the Bears' practice field that read, "Play Angry." With the Bears clearly underdogs in this game, I'd say they have plenty of reason to play angry today.
The experts aren't giving the Bears defense much of a chance against the Saints. Sure, their offense is very good and has played consistently all season long. But although the Bears have had some problems defensively, they do manage to make big plays when they need to. They bend, but do not break. I think we will see the same thing in today's NFC title game.
Weather will also be a factor. As I write this post, it is snowing in Chicago, and combined with 20-degree temperatures, it could create some unstable footing on the field. The Bears' running backs,Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson, have played in this kind of weather before, but what about the Saints' Reggie Bush? Having played for USC and then indoors in the Superdome this season, one wonders if he has been exposed to these conditions. It could slow him down enough for the Bears to catch him.
For the Bears to win today, they will need to establish their running game early and consistently. If the Saints have one area of weakness, it is their run defense, which was ranked 23rd during the regular season. This game will be much closer than the experts are predicting. So close, in fact, that a field goal will decide the game, and a special teams play will be the turning point. My prediction: Bears 23, Saints 20
(Yes, this means I am reversing my previous prediction of the Bears not going to the Super Bowl.)
Now the "team du jour" appears to be the New Orleans Saints, whom many football experts are picking to win today's NFC title game against the Chicago Bears. To hear the ESPN analysts talk, no one is giving the Bears a chance to win today, except perhaps former Bears' coach Mike Ditka. And the scores they're coming up with aren't even close -- 31-17 is common.
If I'm coach Lovie Smith, I'm using these "expert analyses" as psychological ammunition for the Bears. The "nobody believes in us" "we're the underdogs" mindset could actually help the Bears prepare mentally for this game. Last week, a couple of local fans put a sign up near the Bears' practice field that read, "Play Angry." With the Bears clearly underdogs in this game, I'd say they have plenty of reason to play angry today.
The experts aren't giving the Bears defense much of a chance against the Saints. Sure, their offense is very good and has played consistently all season long. But although the Bears have had some problems defensively, they do manage to make big plays when they need to. They bend, but do not break. I think we will see the same thing in today's NFC title game.
Weather will also be a factor. As I write this post, it is snowing in Chicago, and combined with 20-degree temperatures, it could create some unstable footing on the field. The Bears' running backs,Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson, have played in this kind of weather before, but what about the Saints' Reggie Bush? Having played for USC and then indoors in the Superdome this season, one wonders if he has been exposed to these conditions. It could slow him down enough for the Bears to catch him.
For the Bears to win today, they will need to establish their running game early and consistently. If the Saints have one area of weakness, it is their run defense, which was ranked 23rd during the regular season. This game will be much closer than the experts are predicting. So close, in fact, that a field goal will decide the game, and a special teams play will be the turning point. My prediction: Bears 23, Saints 20
(Yes, this means I am reversing my previous prediction of the Bears not going to the Super Bowl.)
Monday, January 15, 2007
Is Pro Football Losing Popularity?
Pro football is not as popular as it was a year ago, even though it remains the most popular sport among American adults who follow more than one sport, according to a recent survey by Harris Interactive. In 2006, 29 percent of adults named football as their favorite sport, down from 33 percent in 2005. Baseball is second at 14 percent (unchanged from 2005), college football at 13 percent (also unchanged since 2005) and auto racing at 9 percent. Pro basketball was the favorite sport of 7 percent of respondents, an increase of three percentage points.
Since 1985 when Harris first posed this question, football has maintained its popularity consistently. But other sports have not fared so well. Baseball has dropped nine percentage points from 23 percent to 14 percent. Horse racing and men’s tennis also lost popularity, while auto racing and college football both gained.
While these results are too surprising, I'm curious to know the differences in popularity rates between men and women, and how these rates may have changed over the years.
By the way, if you're interested in participating in online Harris Poll surveys, you can become a member and register at http://go.hpolsurveys.com/HarrisPoll.
Since 1985 when Harris first posed this question, football has maintained its popularity consistently. But other sports have not fared so well. Baseball has dropped nine percentage points from 23 percent to 14 percent. Horse racing and men’s tennis also lost popularity, while auto racing and college football both gained.
While these results are too surprising, I'm curious to know the differences in popularity rates between men and women, and how these rates may have changed over the years.
By the way, if you're interested in participating in online Harris Poll surveys, you can become a member and register at http://go.hpolsurveys.com/HarrisPoll.
No Clear Winner in NFL Playoffs
If anything can be learned from this weekend’s NFL playoff matchups, it’s that there is no clear, dominant team heading into the NFC and AFC championships. A few other observations about the playoffs:
1) The Bears' much-maligned QB Rex Grossman is a very good quarterback. Despite fans’ fears, Grossman played well on Sunday en route to a 27-24 Bears’ victory over the Seattle Seahawks. He completed 21 of 38 passes with one touchdown and one interception for a 76.9 passer rating – respectable by most NFL standards. He did make a few mistakes, especially when he was blitzed by the Seahawks. But he also made some excellent plays, including a stunning 68-yard TD pass to Bernard Berrian and a gutsy 30-yard pass to Rashied Davis on 3rd and 10 in overtime to put the Bears in field goal range. Did he turn a corner? Maybe. Maybe not. But he did Chicago proud, and he played no worse than the Colts’ Peyton Manning and the Patriots’ Tom Brady, who both had subpar performances in their games. Manning completed 15 of 30 passes for 170 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions; Brady was 27 of 51 for 280 yards with two TDs and three interceptions. That proves that even the best quarterbacks in the league can have an occasional bad game. No doubt, Grossman will have his bad days too – most quarterbacks invariably do – but he is also capable of holding his own against the best of them.
2) Place kickers are the most underrated and mentally tough players on the team. The two playoff games on Sunday were decided by last-second field goals. The Chargers missed a 54-yarder that would have tied the game against the Patriots, and Robbie Gould of the Bears hit two down the stretch – a 41-yarder to tie the game late in the fourth quarter and the game-winning 49-yarder in overtime. You would think it would be simple to just swing your foot and kick the football as far as you can through the goal posts. But if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines for most of the game in freezing cold temperatures, and then be called on late in the game when the game is on the line requires a great deal of mental toughness. The Bears’ Gould proved how tough he can be in the clutch.
3) Defense wins games, but not necessarily by the best defensive teams. The Baltimore Ravens were clearly the best defensive team in the NFL this season, but it was the Colts who surprised the Ravens, fans, and probably themselves with their own defense. The Ravens may have held the Colts to no touchdowns and five field goals, but the Colts outplayed them, holding the Ravens to only two field goals.
4) There is no dominant team, no clear winner as we saw when the 1985 Bears won Super Bowl XX. Each of the final four teams has their strengths and weaknesses. Certainly, you have to give an edge to the Patriots who are making their fourth trip to the AFC Championship game in the last six years, and Tom Brady knows how to win. I like the Saints too; they seem to be this year’s “team of destiny.” After everything that team and the city of New Orleans have gone through since Hurricane Katrina, it would almost seem like a divine justice for the Saints to earn a trip to the Super Bowl in Miami – and win it all. The Saints have a lot of offensive weapons, an underrated defense, and solid coaching. I predicted a couple of weeks ago that the Bears will not win the NFC title game. As a Bears’ fan, I hope I’m wrong. I’d love to see the Bears make the trip to Miami. But I also have to be realistic. The Bears’ defense has a lot of holes in it, and if the Saints manage to find those holes, it may be a long afternoon for the Bears.
1) The Bears' much-maligned QB Rex Grossman is a very good quarterback. Despite fans’ fears, Grossman played well on Sunday en route to a 27-24 Bears’ victory over the Seattle Seahawks. He completed 21 of 38 passes with one touchdown and one interception for a 76.9 passer rating – respectable by most NFL standards. He did make a few mistakes, especially when he was blitzed by the Seahawks. But he also made some excellent plays, including a stunning 68-yard TD pass to Bernard Berrian and a gutsy 30-yard pass to Rashied Davis on 3rd and 10 in overtime to put the Bears in field goal range. Did he turn a corner? Maybe. Maybe not. But he did Chicago proud, and he played no worse than the Colts’ Peyton Manning and the Patriots’ Tom Brady, who both had subpar performances in their games. Manning completed 15 of 30 passes for 170 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions; Brady was 27 of 51 for 280 yards with two TDs and three interceptions. That proves that even the best quarterbacks in the league can have an occasional bad game. No doubt, Grossman will have his bad days too – most quarterbacks invariably do – but he is also capable of holding his own against the best of them.
2) Place kickers are the most underrated and mentally tough players on the team. The two playoff games on Sunday were decided by last-second field goals. The Chargers missed a 54-yarder that would have tied the game against the Patriots, and Robbie Gould of the Bears hit two down the stretch – a 41-yarder to tie the game late in the fourth quarter and the game-winning 49-yarder in overtime. You would think it would be simple to just swing your foot and kick the football as far as you can through the goal posts. But if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines for most of the game in freezing cold temperatures, and then be called on late in the game when the game is on the line requires a great deal of mental toughness. The Bears’ Gould proved how tough he can be in the clutch.
3) Defense wins games, but not necessarily by the best defensive teams. The Baltimore Ravens were clearly the best defensive team in the NFL this season, but it was the Colts who surprised the Ravens, fans, and probably themselves with their own defense. The Ravens may have held the Colts to no touchdowns and five field goals, but the Colts outplayed them, holding the Ravens to only two field goals.
4) There is no dominant team, no clear winner as we saw when the 1985 Bears won Super Bowl XX. Each of the final four teams has their strengths and weaknesses. Certainly, you have to give an edge to the Patriots who are making their fourth trip to the AFC Championship game in the last six years, and Tom Brady knows how to win. I like the Saints too; they seem to be this year’s “team of destiny.” After everything that team and the city of New Orleans have gone through since Hurricane Katrina, it would almost seem like a divine justice for the Saints to earn a trip to the Super Bowl in Miami – and win it all. The Saints have a lot of offensive weapons, an underrated defense, and solid coaching. I predicted a couple of weeks ago that the Bears will not win the NFC title game. As a Bears’ fan, I hope I’m wrong. I’d love to see the Bears make the trip to Miami. But I also have to be realistic. The Bears’ defense has a lot of holes in it, and if the Saints manage to find those holes, it may be a long afternoon for the Bears.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Ripken, Gwynn Get the Call; McGuire Snubbed
It comes as no surprise that Cal Ripken, Jr. and Tony Gwynn were selected to baseball’s Hall of Fame yesterday. Both players received as close to unanimous votes that anyone can get. Ripken received 98.5 percent of the total 545 ballots while Gwynn received 97.6 percent. Both are lifetime players with their respective teams: Ripken with the Baltimore Orioles and Gwynn with the San Diego Padres.
What is also not surprising is the 23.5 percent vote that slugger Mark McGuire received, significantly less than the 75 percent of the vote that he needed to be selected. The baseball writers have spoken, and their message to McGuire – and other players suspected of steroid use –is loud and clear. If I were a voting member of the Baseball Writers of America, I would have voted the same way. It isn’t that the suspicion of steroid use continues to surround the Cardinal slugger. It is that he insists on keeping quiet about it. McGuire is caught between a rock and a hard place. He has to know that no matter what he does, his chances of entering the Hall are slim.
What is also not surprising is the 23.5 percent vote that slugger Mark McGuire received, significantly less than the 75 percent of the vote that he needed to be selected. The baseball writers have spoken, and their message to McGuire – and other players suspected of steroid use –is loud and clear. If I were a voting member of the Baseball Writers of America, I would have voted the same way. It isn’t that the suspicion of steroid use continues to surround the Cardinal slugger. It is that he insists on keeping quiet about it. McGuire is caught between a rock and a hard place. He has to know that no matter what he does, his chances of entering the Hall are slim.
Stupid Sports Injuries
There is some speculation – although not confirmed – that Ted Ginn Jr., of Ohio State injured his ankle during Monday night’s BCS championship game while celebrating with his teammates in the end zone after he returned a kickoff 93 yards for an early Buckeye lead. Fox Sports columnist Peter Schrager writes that Ginn isn’t the first athlete to get injured while celebrating a victorious moment. Other athletes, such as the Padres’ Jake Peavy, the Giants’ Bill Gramatica and Gus Ferotte (in two separate incidents), the Rockies’ Dustin Mohr and the Braves’ Terry Harper also fell into an elite group of athletes who suffered “stupid sports injuries” from celebrating a little too much.
But this kind of thing can happen to sports fans too. In fact, it happened to my brother when he was at a Bears game more than 20 years ago. When the Bears scored a touchdown on a great running play down the sideline, my brother jumped up in excitement. But when he landed, he felt a twinge in his knee. A visit to the doctor several weeks later revealed he had torn a ligament in his knee and needed surgery. I remember he was on crutches for most of the spring that year.
As for that great touchdown my brother was so excited about? It was called back because of a penalty.
But this kind of thing can happen to sports fans too. In fact, it happened to my brother when he was at a Bears game more than 20 years ago. When the Bears scored a touchdown on a great running play down the sideline, my brother jumped up in excitement. But when he landed, he felt a twinge in his knee. A visit to the doctor several weeks later revealed he had torn a ligament in his knee and needed surgery. I remember he was on crutches for most of the spring that year.
As for that great touchdown my brother was so excited about? It was called back because of a penalty.
Austrian Skier Loses More than a Dare
What would you do if you lost a dare? Most people might lose a few bucks or lose their favorite sports jersey off their backs. When Austrian World Cup skier Rainer Schoenfelder lost a dare to his physiotherapist, he skied down a practice hill wearing only his skis, ski boots and an orange helmet. Unbeknownst to Schoenfelder, a photographer at the site snapped a picture of the unpublicized jaunt.
“Mongo” to Coach CIFL Team
Weekend warriors and recreational football players, listen up. There’s a new indoor football team in town, reports the Chicago Tribune, and they’re looking for players to join their team. Coached by former Chicago Bear Steve McMichael – “Mongo” as he is affectionately known in this town -- the Chicago Slaughter will play their games starting this March at the Sears Center in suburban Hoffman Estates as part of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL). Another former Bear, William “The Fridge” Perry, will work in the front office.
In its inaugural season, the Slaughter will have a big hill to climb in the crowded Chicago sports market. The 2006 AFL champion Chicago Rush plays their games just down the road at the Allstate Arena, and ESPN will be televising some AFL games beginning this season. The CIFL has no TV contract, but could offer an exciting alternative for those who love football of the indoor variety. And seeing Mongo on the sidelines could be entertaining in itself.
In its inaugural season, the Slaughter will have a big hill to climb in the crowded Chicago sports market. The 2006 AFL champion Chicago Rush plays their games just down the road at the Allstate Arena, and ESPN will be televising some AFL games beginning this season. The CIFL has no TV contract, but could offer an exciting alternative for those who love football of the indoor variety. And seeing Mongo on the sidelines could be entertaining in itself.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
I Got You Under My (Bear)Skin
Some fans will go to great lengths to show their support for their favorite sports team. For example, today’s Chicago Sun-Times tells the story of 41-year-old Bears fan Glenn Timmermann of north suburban Chicago who has tattooed his entire body with the names of current and former Bears players. Timmermann began his quest in October 2005 when he met Otis Wilson of the 1985 championship team at a local autographing session and asked him to sign his back with a permanent marker. He then asked his tattoo artist, Oscar Bustos, to fill in the rest. As Timmermann heard about other Bear autograph signings, he made trips all over the city to get their autographs as well. He now has 45 of them, including one of Mike Ditka on the back of his shaved head. “Everybody owns a T-shirt; it’s been done before. This is different,” he told the Sun-Times.
Timmermann and Bustos have appeared together on several Bears’ pre-game shows, and are scheduled to appear on ESPN’s Cold Pizza this Friday morning when Bustos will give Timmermann a tattoo live on the air.
Timmermann and Bustos have appeared together on several Bears’ pre-game shows, and are scheduled to appear on ESPN’s Cold Pizza this Friday morning when Bustos will give Timmermann a tattoo live on the air.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Payton Named Coach of the Year
New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton was named the AP Coach of the Year after leading the team to a 10-6 record and a first-round bye in the NFL playoffs. Really, there was no other choice.
After Hurricane Katrina forced the Saints out of New Orleans before the 2005 season, the team split their home games between Baton Rouge and San Antonio. QB Drew Brees joined the team before the 2006 season, and in early October, the Saints returned home to the Superdome. The Saints surprised most experts by winning their division and making the postseason.
After Hurricane Katrina forced the Saints out of New Orleans before the 2005 season, the team split their home games between Baton Rouge and San Antonio. QB Drew Brees joined the team before the 2006 season, and in early October, the Saints returned home to the Superdome. The Saints surprised most experts by winning their division and making the postseason.
Landis Supporters Ask for Fairness
Supporters of American cyclist Floyd Landis are not giving up on the Tour de France winner who tested positive for the hormone testosterone during the race last summer, but who has denied any wrongdoing. According to a Reuters story, supporters have created the Floyd Fairness Fund (www.floydfairnessfund.org) to help Landis clear his name and raise money to cover legal fees and expenses in connection with his defense.
Boxing's Image Problem
Actor Sly Stallone -- 'Rocky' Balboa if you will -- told Reuters that boxing's image is worse now than it ever has been. The image, he explains, was damaged by bad-boy fighters like Mike Tyson and a lack of young talent. "I don't know if it's bad management or whatever, or the cream is not rising to the top, but you'd have to think that boxing is a reflection of the promoters," says the 60-year-old Stallone. "I wanted to create an awareness for boxing again because it had gone downhill."
According to the article, the sport has been in decline for years. Fewer young athletes are taking up the sport, and critics say it can cause brain damage from repeated blows to the head.
So boxing has an image problem? No kidding.
Boxing is the only sport I can think of that encourages two people to exchange blows with one another in order to earn points. I don't care if they are wearning protective head gear and boxing gloves, the thought of any kind of fighting -- even a legalized version of it -- turns my stomach. Further, I think it encourages more violence.
Perhaps if they stopped using humans as punching bags, the sport wouldn't have such a bad image.
According to the article, the sport has been in decline for years. Fewer young athletes are taking up the sport, and critics say it can cause brain damage from repeated blows to the head.
So boxing has an image problem? No kidding.
Boxing is the only sport I can think of that encourages two people to exchange blows with one another in order to earn points. I don't care if they are wearning protective head gear and boxing gloves, the thought of any kind of fighting -- even a legalized version of it -- turns my stomach. Further, I think it encourages more violence.
Perhaps if they stopped using humans as punching bags, the sport wouldn't have such a bad image.
Cotts' Wishful Thinking
New Cubs' pitcher Neal Cotts has some pretty ambitious ideas. Cotts and his agent negotiated a $150,000 bonus in his contract with the Cubs -- for being named World Series MVP, according to a Chicago Tribune story.
This is laughable. His success with the Chicago White Sox and winning a World Series championship in 2005 must have gone to his head. Does Cotts realize what team he's dealing with? This is the Chicago Cubs, a team that has not gone to the World Series since 1945 and has not won one in nearly a century. Does he really think the Cubs will win a World Series while he is with the team? Even if they did, the chances that Cotts would be named MVP is slim. He'd have better luck playing the Illinois State lottery. Good luck.
This is laughable. His success with the Chicago White Sox and winning a World Series championship in 2005 must have gone to his head. Does Cotts realize what team he's dealing with? This is the Chicago Cubs, a team that has not gone to the World Series since 1945 and has not won one in nearly a century. Does he really think the Cubs will win a World Series while he is with the team? Even if they did, the chances that Cotts would be named MVP is slim. He'd have better luck playing the Illinois State lottery. Good luck.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Top Sports Stories of 2006
Happy New Year! As 2007 opens, it’s time to reflect on the top sports stories of 2006 and look ahead to what might be in the coming year. Here are my picks for the top five most inspiring stories, the top five sports disappointments and five stories that will make headlines in 2007.
Most Inspiring Sports Stories of 2007
1. New Orleans Saints - After being forced out of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and splitting time between Baton Rouge and San Antonio in 2005, the Saints return' to the Superdome was an inspiration to local residents and football fans. What made this season even more special was their performance on the field. Behind newly acquired QB Drew Brees, the Saints finished 10-6, won their division and earned a first-round bye in the postseason. Regardless how they finish, their performance surpassed everyone's expectations.
2. Barbaro - Thousands of horse racing fans watched in horror as Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro pulled up lame during the Preakness last May. After shattering his leg and fighting off a potentially life-threatening infection, Barbaro's slow but gradual recovery is a testament to this horse's fighting spirit. The champion horse defied all the odds and has survived so far. At last word, Barbaro was about to be sent home.
3. Detroit Tigers - How does a team go from being the worst team in baseball a few short years ago to being a World Series contender? Behind manager Jim Leyland and a stellar young pitching staff, the Tigers showed the baseball world that it is possible to turn one's fortunes around.
4. Andre Agassi -- After his final performance in the U.S. Open, Andre Agassi left the sport with grace, class and dignity.
5. Edmonton Oilers -- The Oilers earned the final playoff spot on the very last day of the regular NHL season, then proceeded to outplay every one of their opponents. They lost to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup finals in seven games, proving once again why it's important to never give up.
Top Sports Disappointments of 2006
1. Doping scandals -- From the steroid investigation in baseball to the ban of track and field athletes such as Justin Gatlin, doping scandals were the most disappointing sports story in 2006. Any athlete who takes drugs to enhance their performance ruins the integrity of his/her sport as well as sports in general. Unfortunately, we're just beginning to see prevalent it is in the sports world.
2. Floyd Landis -- After an amazing comeback in the 17th race of the Tour de France, many thought cyclist Floyd Landis would be the next champion. But a positive result of his urine sample suggested that Landis may have cheated his way to the top. It proved to be another embarrassing moment for U.S. sports.
3. Bode Miller and U.S. ski team -- Going into the 2006 Olympics in Torino, the U.S. ski team was expected to reach the podium in most of the ski events. Instead, they were a huge disappointment, led by Bode Miller, who preferred to party his way through Italy than show why he is one of the best skiers in the world.
4. Sasha Cohen -- In both the Olympics and World Championships, Cohen led after the short program. But true to form, Cohen made too many mistakes in her free skate and lost her opportunity to win gold.
5. U.S. Tennis team -- Injuries, illness, lack of motivation, you name it -- the U.S. tennis team failed to live up to its potential. Andy Roddick performed well at the U.S. Open, but 2006 will be remembered for the year that Andre Agassi retired.
Honorable mention:
Chicago White Sox - After making some key moves in the off-season after winning the 2005 World Series, the Sox seemed poised to repeat as World Champions. They won 90 games in 2006, good enough for third place behind Minnesota and Detroit, and failed to make the post season.
Top Headlines in 2007
1. Steroids/doping scandals -- Unfortunately, doping scandals and steroids will be the hot news story of the year.
2. Chicago’s and the 2016 Olympic Games -- Lack of organization and insufficient support for an Olympic stadium will cost the city its bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games. The USOC will select Los Angeles as the U.S. representative, which will lose out to one of the other contending cities -- Madrid, Rio De Janeiro or Tokyo.
3. The high-priced Chicago Cubs -- After the Cubs' spending spree, all eyes will be on the Cubs. Will their acquisitions pay off, or did they pay too much? The Cubs won't be in last place as they were in 2005, but they won't win their division either.
4. The Chicago Bears -- They might have the best record in the NFC and home field advantage throughout the playoffs, but the Bears will lose the NFC title game and fail to make the Superbowl.
5. Key retirements -- Brett Favre, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Michelle Kwan and Lindsay Davenport are among the top athletes who will announce their retirement in 2007.
Most Inspiring Sports Stories of 2007
1. New Orleans Saints - After being forced out of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and splitting time between Baton Rouge and San Antonio in 2005, the Saints return' to the Superdome was an inspiration to local residents and football fans. What made this season even more special was their performance on the field. Behind newly acquired QB Drew Brees, the Saints finished 10-6, won their division and earned a first-round bye in the postseason. Regardless how they finish, their performance surpassed everyone's expectations.
2. Barbaro - Thousands of horse racing fans watched in horror as Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro pulled up lame during the Preakness last May. After shattering his leg and fighting off a potentially life-threatening infection, Barbaro's slow but gradual recovery is a testament to this horse's fighting spirit. The champion horse defied all the odds and has survived so far. At last word, Barbaro was about to be sent home.
3. Detroit Tigers - How does a team go from being the worst team in baseball a few short years ago to being a World Series contender? Behind manager Jim Leyland and a stellar young pitching staff, the Tigers showed the baseball world that it is possible to turn one's fortunes around.
4. Andre Agassi -- After his final performance in the U.S. Open, Andre Agassi left the sport with grace, class and dignity.
5. Edmonton Oilers -- The Oilers earned the final playoff spot on the very last day of the regular NHL season, then proceeded to outplay every one of their opponents. They lost to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup finals in seven games, proving once again why it's important to never give up.
Top Sports Disappointments of 2006
1. Doping scandals -- From the steroid investigation in baseball to the ban of track and field athletes such as Justin Gatlin, doping scandals were the most disappointing sports story in 2006. Any athlete who takes drugs to enhance their performance ruins the integrity of his/her sport as well as sports in general. Unfortunately, we're just beginning to see prevalent it is in the sports world.
2. Floyd Landis -- After an amazing comeback in the 17th race of the Tour de France, many thought cyclist Floyd Landis would be the next champion. But a positive result of his urine sample suggested that Landis may have cheated his way to the top. It proved to be another embarrassing moment for U.S. sports.
3. Bode Miller and U.S. ski team -- Going into the 2006 Olympics in Torino, the U.S. ski team was expected to reach the podium in most of the ski events. Instead, they were a huge disappointment, led by Bode Miller, who preferred to party his way through Italy than show why he is one of the best skiers in the world.
4. Sasha Cohen -- In both the Olympics and World Championships, Cohen led after the short program. But true to form, Cohen made too many mistakes in her free skate and lost her opportunity to win gold.
5. U.S. Tennis team -- Injuries, illness, lack of motivation, you name it -- the U.S. tennis team failed to live up to its potential. Andy Roddick performed well at the U.S. Open, but 2006 will be remembered for the year that Andre Agassi retired.
Honorable mention:
Chicago White Sox - After making some key moves in the off-season after winning the 2005 World Series, the Sox seemed poised to repeat as World Champions. They won 90 games in 2006, good enough for third place behind Minnesota and Detroit, and failed to make the post season.
Top Headlines in 2007
1. Steroids/doping scandals -- Unfortunately, doping scandals and steroids will be the hot news story of the year.
2. Chicago’s and the 2016 Olympic Games -- Lack of organization and insufficient support for an Olympic stadium will cost the city its bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games. The USOC will select Los Angeles as the U.S. representative, which will lose out to one of the other contending cities -- Madrid, Rio De Janeiro or Tokyo.
3. The high-priced Chicago Cubs -- After the Cubs' spending spree, all eyes will be on the Cubs. Will their acquisitions pay off, or did they pay too much? The Cubs won't be in last place as they were in 2005, but they won't win their division either.
4. The Chicago Bears -- They might have the best record in the NFC and home field advantage throughout the playoffs, but the Bears will lose the NFC title game and fail to make the Superbowl.
5. Key retirements -- Brett Favre, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Michelle Kwan and Lindsay Davenport are among the top athletes who will announce their retirement in 2007.
Favre Retirement Watch Begins
Will Brett Favre retire -- or won't he? That is the question everyone is asking today after the Packer QB lit up the Chicago Bears for 285 yards during last night's nationally televised regular-season finale at Soldier Field.
I can see why Favre keeps vascillating on this issue. After watching last night's telecast, my feelings were also split. His performance against the Bears convinced me that he is still one of the best QBs in the game. His skills and the desire to compete are still there. And with four straight victories to end the season, Favre might be tempted to return to the team for one more season.
But Favre's tearful post-game interview may have spoken volumes about his mindset about retirement. NBC analyst John Madden said it best -- if Favre knows he is coming back next season, he would be dry-eyed. Instead, he fought back tears and kept his poise as sideline reporter Andrea Kremer asked questions about his future in football. Anyone watching the interview had to get the sense that Favre already knew the answer to the retirement question, and made sure his performance at Soldier Field on New Year's Eve in front of a national audience would provide a lasting impression.
For all the criticism that the NFL received about broadcasting this game in prime time, maybe the league knew something the rest of us did not. If, in fact, last night's season finale was Favre's last game in pro football, what better way to give him a sendoff than on national TV against the divisional rival Chicago Bears? You could not script a better ending than that.
Favre has said that he will make his decision within the next couple of weeks. Let the countdown begin.
I can see why Favre keeps vascillating on this issue. After watching last night's telecast, my feelings were also split. His performance against the Bears convinced me that he is still one of the best QBs in the game. His skills and the desire to compete are still there. And with four straight victories to end the season, Favre might be tempted to return to the team for one more season.
But Favre's tearful post-game interview may have spoken volumes about his mindset about retirement. NBC analyst John Madden said it best -- if Favre knows he is coming back next season, he would be dry-eyed. Instead, he fought back tears and kept his poise as sideline reporter Andrea Kremer asked questions about his future in football. Anyone watching the interview had to get the sense that Favre already knew the answer to the retirement question, and made sure his performance at Soldier Field on New Year's Eve in front of a national audience would provide a lasting impression.
For all the criticism that the NFL received about broadcasting this game in prime time, maybe the league knew something the rest of us did not. If, in fact, last night's season finale was Favre's last game in pro football, what better way to give him a sendoff than on national TV against the divisional rival Chicago Bears? You could not script a better ending than that.
Favre has said that he will make his decision within the next couple of weeks. Let the countdown begin.
Turnovers Kill the Bears -- Again
Fans watching last night's Bears' miserable effort against the Green Bay Packers on national TV must be feeling very uneasy. Normally, the last regular season game is used as a tuneup for the playoffs. But if last night's game was any indication, the Bears may be in trouble. In the 26-7 loss to their divisional rivals, the Bears looked nothing like a team that won 13 games this season en route to a division title and the best record in the NFC. Rex Grossman reverted to his mid-season shakiness, completing two of 12 passes and throwing three interceptions. Backup QB Brian Griese, whom fans have been clamoring to see play, fared slightly better. Despite throwing a 75-yard TD pass to wideout Mark Bradley for the Bears only score of the evening, Griese looked rusty in his half of play and threw two interceptions. Seventeen of the Packers' 26 points resulted from Bears' turnovers. As the story has been all season long, as long as Grossman and the Bears offense can limit their tunovers, the team will do well. But that is a big IF. The defense will take care of the rest, or so we thought. But last night, it was clear that the Bears defense still has holes in it, and that the team desperately misses lineman Tommie Harris and secondary specialist Mike Brown.
What is also troubling is the loss at home. All three Bears' losses this season came at Soldier Field, so home field advantage may not much of an advantage after all.
The Bears have two weeks to shake themselves out of these doldrums and get healthy. How they perform two weekends from now will show just what the team is made of. My guess is they will come out fighting, with a desire to wipe away the bad taste they put in fans' mouths that didn't come from champagne.
What is also troubling is the loss at home. All three Bears' losses this season came at Soldier Field, so home field advantage may not much of an advantage after all.
The Bears have two weeks to shake themselves out of these doldrums and get healthy. How they perform two weekends from now will show just what the team is made of. My guess is they will come out fighting, with a desire to wipe away the bad taste they put in fans' mouths that didn't come from champagne.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)