Al Vidasein, Goodbye

After a few weeks of consideration, this is it, folks, the last post on JAT. Unless, of course, Jig comes out of hiding and restarts this thing. Frankly, I've been too busy to put much thought into posting, and when I do have the time, nothing very interesting or original comes to mind.

It's been a fun almost two years. Hopefully the time you've spent reading my ramblings on football, basketball, weird pop culture, and sometimes baseball were worth it, and you got a laugh or two out of the whole deal. I know I had a good time with it. This whole thing makes me admire those are able to keep their blogs going with multi-week posts for many years even more, because, quite honestly, it isn't easy. That being said, thanks for your time, it's been real. Also, be sure to check out ABC's Flash Forward, it's the next Lost. Good Stuff.

So Long, Farewell,
Twig

My Alma Mater True

Take a quick look at the top NFL rookie surprises so far this year, according to si.com. Uh huh. Yep. That's right.


Welp, off to class. Again.

Let Me Be Myself

Almost a year ago exactly, I wrote a post about my favorite and least favorite team uniforms in the NFL. Two of my least favorite? The New England Patriots and the Buffalo Bills. Especially the Bills. Tonight, I tune in to ESPN to watch Monday Night Football, and see...both teams wearing their awesome throw backs, both of which are obscene upgrades over what they currently rock. By the way, I suggested they each go back to these looks. I'm not saying, I'm just saying.

She's Just A Charmer, Oh No

Well, it's been a while and for that, I apologize. Instead of original, well thought out...thought, I'm gonna copy and paste an email conversation I had this afternoon with my Uncle Jim. As always, he's from Arkansas, and an SEC fan:

From Jim To Lance on 9/10/09 @ 11:22 a.m.
Curious to know your thoughts on several fronts
1) Sam Bradford, are they really that much better with him? It seemed to me OU should be able to handle a team like BYU with their 3rd string QB.
2) How about all the ballyhood about BYU and Boise State? Ridiculous, we may finally see the explosion of the BCS!
3) Colt obviously had a good game, they look tough.
4) Have you seen the number 1 offense in the nation? Yes, it is my mighty Hogs...and yes I want to celebrate when I can even though it was against a D-2 school. Mallett was 17-22 passing and set some records. It is so unusual for us to have a true passing QB! It will be interesting at what point he decides to try the NFL. At 6'7" he should be the real deal. They say his footwork is his achilles (no pun intended) and Petrino is obviously the guy to teach him.
5) How bout them ole miss rebels? They sure looked like a HDN team to me. The qb struggled and the running game was run left, run right. This might just be fun to watch them implode. It couldn't happen to a better guy...we'll just have to see.
6) Back to my Hogs, they have a bye week this week and then we get them at home against Georgia. Even before OSU beat them, I felt like we would beat them. I CANNOT wait until we go to Oxford.
7) Speaking of OSU...they are good and very well may be very good. Depending on Bradford, they could win the South easily and the Texas game will be a classic no matter who wins.
8) Lastly, can the Rangers do it? I'm pulling for them more this year than I ever have.
9) ACU number 2 in the nation? Awesome, their coach has got to start getting some attention. It was interesting with the TV game, the coach of NW Missouri has been there for 30 some odd years. When you think about it, as a coach that would be a pretty nice gig, rather than take a chance of climbing up and down the proverbial ladder of college football coaching.
10) What are your thoughts about Barkley? Pretty amazing kid and it seems it is not all hype. I wonder what Mustain is thinking? Mustain should have done what Jevan Snead did. Commited to Florida first, found out Tebow was signing, went to Texas and saw real clearly Colt had the job locked down and then found a school that could use him. I think SC will beat OSU pretty handily although Tressel is like 26-1 in the horseshoe.*


My response to Jim @ 12:57 p.m.
Glad to hear your thoughts, it's always fun to talk college football. I'll just number the points and comment accordingly.
1) It's always great to see 0u lose, but I have mixed feelings about the Bradford injury. He seems like a nice guy (did you see the gameday feature with him and Colt?) and Texas proved last year that they could beat them with him playing, but at the same time, it has to be good for UT if he misses extended time. I do feel bad for him though. The injury I'm most shocked about is the one to their tight end. I heard about it a month or so ago, and at the time it seemed like he would only be out for a few games, but he had surg and is done for the season! Even though I feel for 0u about the same way you feel for HDN, I do feel bad for both those guys. They could have left school last year and been high draft picks, but came back for one more shot, and sustained injuries before week two. As far as 0u as a team, everyone said their biggest question mark was their O-line, and apparently it came to fruition. Not saying that the guy who hit Bradford would not have with last years group, but it does make you wonder. Alright, enough about them, time to move on...
2) I love the fact that BSU and BYU are looking legit with early wins over BCS schools. I'll be rooting for them (and TCU, and Utah) to continue to do well, and hopefully at least one will finish undefeated so that the BCS takes another hit.
3) I only saw a few highlights of the Texas game, because it was on pyy-per-view,. but they did look good from what I witnessed. From what I've read/saw, it was a good thing that they gave up 20 points to ULM because you just know Muschamp will be all over the D for underperforming, so he'll keep the fire going hopefully. Also, Colt threw a pick so that should keep him from getting too comfortable after one game.
4) Congrats on the big win! I'm glad a quarterback from the Great State Of Texas can come in and give y'all something you haven't witnessed since...umm...when did you last have a throwing QB? Speaking of Texas QB's, another UT transfer is starting in D1 for Tulsa. GJ Kinne went to UT out of high school and left after a year, so that makes to D1 starters from Texas who Colt has sent packing. Best of luck to both of them, though. Also, the best (from last year, statistically speaking) QB is from Abilene Wylie and currently plays for the Houston Cougars, and was coached in HS by an ACU grad.
5) I don't really like or dislike ole miss, but i do hope Snead plays well, so I was a bit surprised that they took so long to get going against Memphis. I do have the sneaking suspision, though, that they maaayyy not live up to their preseason expectations, so we'll see.
6) I watched most of the OSU/UGA game, and yes, the Hogs have a great shot at beating the Dawgs.
7) Even before last weekend, the UT/OSU game was the one that had me most worried, with the exception of the RRS. Now, uummm, yeah. Lets say that I'm not exactly looking forward to Stillwater on Halloween.
8) Yeah, I'm glad the Rangers are giving me a reason to watch baseball in September. I tivo almost all the games, and they're a fun team to watch. They have great young talent in the field (Kinsler, Andrus, Borbon, Cruz, Davis) and FINALLY have some good young pitchers in the mix. I worry about the playoffs this year, but if they hold on to their team, they can contend for the next decade. Awesome.
9) Yeah, I'm excited about ACU. They started to improve during my time there, but in the years since, have really taken off. It's great to see them get a little exposure. I don't know if Thompsen, their HC is looking to leave for a bigger job, but he is an ACU grad, so those ties may keep him there a little while at least. The NWMOST coach is a little like the coach at UMHB in Belton. He hasn't been there for 30 years-UMHB only started football a decade ago or so, but he's been there since the start, and have turned down multiple offers from bigger schools because he has a nice thing going in a town he's been in for quite a while. I think there's something to be said for that, just being content where you are and not always following the money and fame. Certainly, it takes a special breed to be a D1, or NFL head coach, but it's also special to be a DII or DIII coach who enjoys long-term success and doesn't leave at the first opportunity because he's happy with where he's at.
10) Barkley seems like the real deal. Say what you want about USC, but they put guys in the pros, and they know talent when they see it. I wonder what Mustain's thinking now? He probably would have been the starter at UA had he waited out the coaching change, as Mallett probably wouldn't have transfered if Mustain were still there, now he's behind a true freshman. Bummer. Also, who was it that beat OSU in the Shoe? Dang, I can't remember. Hmmmm??

Response @ 2:01 p.m.
1) No I didn't see the gameday feature, I wish I would have and ditto on your sentiments. Great insight on the O-line, I never thought of that one.
2) Ditto on the BCS
3) Nuff said
4) Texas, the vast breeding ground for quarterbacks and unless I'm missing it, none of them are starting in the NFL. That is strange isn't it?
5) I read one article about Ole Miss this year and it was specific to Nutt. It said Nutt's team's in the past underperforms when ranked high and overperforms when they are rated low. That is the most true statement about Nutt's record I've ever read. That is what frustrated me more than anything in his 10 year span. Payton and I both will relish the day Ole Miss figures that out and he'll have another coaching job lined up.
6) Ditto
7) It will be better than Tech/Texas last year. By the way I understand Graham Harrell's brother is a qb for ACU. I still cannot believe he didn't get drafted. I really thought he might be something to watch.
8) Since I've never, ever been much a baseball fan nor a Ranger fan, I'm please a Texas team is making a show of it. How long has it been since the Rangers or Astro's played the championship much less a division championship? Diotto
9) Go Wildcats! Good words.
10) Simply put, a good college game, great atmosphere and interesting to watch. Barkley's appearance is interesting, seems like the typical surfer California kid unlike the latino Sanchez and dark headed Leinart. How about Sanchez and Stafford. You have to either feel sorry for them and excited for them at the same time. Petey's reaction to Sanchez leaving is interesting looking back. Of course one could argue Petey's record in the pros was less than desirable. Kind of like another coach that spent less than a year in the NFL. No DOUBT about putting guys in the pro's! They should just call it Pro U.

Lastly, have you caught any of the hard knocks re the Bengals on HBO? To say I'm a fan of the bengals would be like me saying I'm an Ole Miss fan, but it has been interesting. Tank Johnson and Roy Williams are both with the Bengals, weird in that they both were a star on their helmet last year. Marvin Lewis seems like a good coach and it is always fun to get a glimpse of head coaches. I told Jill not long ago, I would LOVE to be able to spend one week with an NFL team just to observe everything they do. It would be awesome as it would to do the same with a college team. What do you think Petey's practices are like as opposed to Petrino or Meyer's and then compare to a Stoops or Brown's? Fascninating. Don't forget to watch Auburn any chance you get. Talk to you later.

Another Response from me @ 3:27 p.m.:
4) That's because they're still in college. Wait a few years.
7) He was second-string in their TV game a few weeks ago, but got a lot of playing time. I don't know if that's the plan for the season, or if they are still waiting/hoping for one of their two QB's to separate from the other. Fun fact-Harrell and Colt's younger bro, Chase, are roomies at ACU.
8) The Stros actually made it to the World Series in 2005, but got swept by the White Sox, though every game was close. The Rangers have not made the playoffs since 1999, and have won exactly ONE playoff game in franchise history-their first ever game against the Yankees in 1996.
10) I have watched Hard Knocks. Love it. For some crazy reason, Ochocinco has become, in my opinon, a more likeable person because of the show. He's weird and crazy, but at the same time a pretty funny dude. I also like it because the running back from ACU, Bernard Scott, is getting some face time, so that's fun.
I'd love to compare the practice habits of various NFL and college coaches. I think the most entertaining would have to be Carroll at USC. Every now and then I come across a video of him and his players singing or pulling practical jokes on one another. Just seems like a cool environment to be in as a player.

Jim to Me @ 4:41 p.m.
My sincere apologies for the bad spelling. On this particular email I use the spell check never works and the font is teeny tiny. If I say so myself, my spelling was actually my strong suit in school. I was just reading back over my messages and see where you must think I'm stupid Arkie that can't spell. Oh well, you already thought that, but anyway disregard the bad spelling.

My final response @ 6:39 p.m.
HA, shows you what I know, I didn't notice anything wrong!

Me be in grajewit skool,
Lance

I'll leave you with this video, which I can't stop laughing at, courtesy of si.com:


*Comments copyright Jimbo Jimmy Agan, 2009, Jonesboro, Arkansas

What A Night For A Dance, You Know I'm A Dancing Machine

I talked a little about the book 'Jesus For President' a month or so ago. I didn't actually start reading it then, as I went with 'Fields of Fire,' but I got into 'JFP' as soon as 'Fields' was complete. In any event, let me say that 'Jesus For President' is a must-read. It has made me think about my faith and what I've held to be true for my whole life in ways I've never considered. It points out in a very clear way how the Church and Christians in general have gone so far off course from what Jesus had in mind for us 2000 years ago. It is also particularly damning of this country, and the negative influence it has had on the world during it's near-empirical reign over the last half-century. While you may not agree with everything in JFP, it will, at the very least, make you think about your beliefs and why you feel that way. Highest of high recommendations.

In a completely unrelated note, my blogging has (obviously) slowed down a lot recently. Unfortunately, school-which started, for the last time in my life, two days ago-is shaping up to be pretty hectic. It's my last semester of classes, so things will be coming down pretty hard in the next three months. All that said, I don't know how much I'll be updating JAT. As hard as that is for you to swallow, hang in there, it will get better.

Who Needs Avenues, Who Needs Reservoirs

I’ve mentioned a few times how much I enjoy analyzing and ranking sports uniforms. It’s one of the small joys I get in being a sports fan, especially when I’m watching a contest involving two teams I don’t particularly care for one way or another. That being said, there was a time when it was very difficult to appreciate uniforms because there were so many bad ones. The time I speak of is the mid-to-late 1990’s. I don’t know how this thought hit me, but it did. There was an obscene abundance of terrible threads making the rounds, especially in the MLB and NBA. You want proof you say? I’ll give you proof. Here are a few examples of what some teams thought were good ideas.

This is actually the better look for the Pistons in the 1990's. Their short-lived alternate was a weird maroonish-brown with the same logo. Not good times in Motown.
It's a little hard to see in this picture, but the Toronto Raptors had a cartoon dinosaur dribbling a basketball and wearing a jersey, shorts, and sneakers. There were also about five very spread apart pinstripes that served no purpose other than making the Raptors looks ridiculous. Mission accomplished.

The Cavs waited for the LeBron era to unveil decent uniforms, and it was not a moment too soon.

There was a disturbing trend in the late 90's for teams to go to teal. The Vancouver/Memphis Grizzlies kick off the teal with...this. No wonder they didn't set Canada on fire for basketball.

Here the Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets to their best to look like like an NBDL team. Teal? Check. Purple? Check. Wide-set pinstripes? Check.

Whats is this? Really. What?

The Rockets took a page out of the Raptors playbook (or was it the other way around?) and went with a cartoon logo, and stupid pinstripes. Not coincidentally, the Rockets have escaped the first round of the playoffs once since abandoning the classic uniforms they won two championships in.

Don't worry, we'll see this color scheme pop up again later. Yep, THREE pro sports franchises thought it would be a good idea to use teal and purple in the 1990's. And what's the deal with the mountains? Really?

And there it is.

So let's see...The Marlins, Diamondbacks, and Grizzlies were all expansion teams in the 90's and all incorporated some form of teal in their uniforms. I'll never understand it.

What an atrocity. Sleeveless jersey, pinstripes, and a made-for-Disney cartoon logo on top of a navy and red color scheme. Who do they think they are, the Rockets? Who's with me? Amirite?

Fortunately, that's all I've got. Let me know if there are any I missed. On the bright side, all of these teams have ditched their looks of ten years ago and have made definite upgrades, so not all is lost. Heck, the Jazz and Grizzlies now look exactly the same, so there's that going for them, I guess. Later days, folks, it's time to get to work.

*UPDATE at 2:54 pm. Thanks to reader Austin Henley for bringing this one up. In one of the all-time awful uniform decisions-not only of the 1990's, but ever- the Tampa Bay 'Devil' Rays make their debut in this:


More bad D-Rays pictures here.
Second Follow Up: While looking for the picture of the clearly juiced-up Canseco (were we really that oblivious?) I came across this post from two years ago at Joe Sports Fan. Seems like someone else picked up on the purple/teal trend.

Unless You Got The Zipper Fixed On My Shoe, I'll Be In The Lobby Drinking For Two

One of my favorite running themes/ideas that Bill 'Sports Guy' Simmons has is his yearbook quotes. This is the premise: He searches for absurd quotes from athletes (and some entertainers) and passes them out to his reading masses for them to use as their high school year book quote. Pretty funny stuff, and 99% of the time are a better bet than what the average 18 year old would choose to put as his/her yearbook quote. He's updated the YBQ on his Twitter page, so if you have one of them, check it out.


All that to say, I think there may be a new leader in the clubhouse for yearbook quote of the year. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Thunder himself, LenDale White.

"I really got to be honest," White said. "It wasn't a lot of major diet changes. (It was) watching what I drink. I was a big Patron consumer. ... That's what it was. I was drinking a lot, drank a lot of alcohol. I cut that out of my diet all the way. I don't drink at all. I cut the drinking, I stopped drinking for six months... It started falling off."



I've already written about the talent that took the field in Pasadena on January 4, 2006, but consider the paths of the four biggest stars in the game: One quarterback had photos of him partying with college girls in a hot tub leaked to the internet and has since taken up MMA training in the offseason to improve his on-field performance, the other quarterback had photos of him partying shirtless with other dudes get leaked as well and has been on suicide watch for one night. The Heisman-winning running back has made more news for being injured and dating (until recently) OJ Simpson's lawyer's daughter. And now, to complete the circle, the other star running back is making news for losing 30 pounds of tequila!

Full Story Here

I've Got A Notion To Say What Doesn't Feel Right

I have a problem. On the top of my computer screen is a link to Amazon. I love going there and reading reviews of books I've heard about and inevitably coming across a new one that I haven't. This isn't a bad thing in and of itself, but every now and then, I compulsively buy 4-5 books at a time that I just 'have to have.' I always read them, but by the time I'm finished with one group, another is ready to be bought. Anyway, the last group of books I purchased included Jesus Wants to Save Christians, Jesus for President, Dixieland Delight (about a season following SEC football), and Fields of Fire (about Vietnam). That's right, two books about religion, one about war and one about football. I am officially a walking cliche of a Southern male. Thank you.

I started Jesus for President this afternoon, and the first few pages hit me. Here's an excerpt:

You grew up in a good family;
hardworking dad and a mom who
was there when you needed her.

They taught you and your little
brother to share and showed you
how to pray every night before bed.

In Sunday school, you learned about
Jesus and sang all the songs with
the rest of the kids.

There was Noah and his ark, Moses
and the Ten Commandments, and little
baby Jesus asleep on the hay.

You learned about the blessing
that was America and were grateful
to live in a country led by good
Christian leaders.

With a hand over your heart or above
your brow, you pledged allegiance to

God and Country,

for the Lord was at work
in this holy nation.

But lately you are beginning to wonder
if this is really how God intended things
to be.

And you question if God is really working
though places of power.

Maybe, you wonder, God had a totally
different idea in mind...

Jesus for President:Politics for Ordinary Radicals, by Shane Claiborne and Chris Haw

Hmmm...Agan, prepared to be stretched.

The Spirit Of A Hustler And The Swagger Of A College Kid

Great minds have claimed that, "I can now rest easy knowing that we'll be spared at least one 'Feel-Good Movie of the Year' blurb in 2009." (Seriously, that should be on the movie poster) Other, slightly lesser minds have called it dark and depressing.


Good Golly. If you haven't read Cormac McCarthy's The Road, do so now. I may even re-read my copy before seeing the movie. This is big folks, because I never* read a book twice, usually I see that as a waste of time. Not now, not for something so great.

*See how I did that? I italicized the word 'never,' implying that I really really don't read books twice. I'm screaming through the computer screen that it's something I'm adamantly against in most cases. I paid attention in Blog Writing 202 during summer school at Temple College in 2003. Have some.

Don't Make A Sound. I Know They're Watching, They're Watching.

This is mostly for my dad, brother and uncle: It looks like Lake Loraine isn't the place to fish anymore.

According to this story, the giant catfish in the photo was caught recently by a 14 year old girl in Spain. However, by looking at some of the other 'stories' featured on the Daily Mail website, it may stand to reason that this is a hoax and this little gal didn't actually catch the monster fish. Until proven otherwise, however, I'm gonna believe it's true. In the meantime, if you need me, I'll be on Orbitz booking a flight to Spain.

In other dirty water news, here's a link to the H2O Africa Foundation. H2O was co-founded by Matt Damon (yes, THAT Matt Damon) and is an effort to bring clean drinking water to villages in Africa. If you have an extra buck or ten, send it their way. It's a great cause.

Doctor, Doctor I Must Have Gotten This Sick Somehow

I got this text from Kayla today: 'Ur not going to believe what i just did! I had a dislocated shoulder blade and she put it back into socket!'

This, in response to me asking how her visit to a physical therapist went this morning. Dislocated shoulder. That explains the trouble she's had breathing and sleeping. Huh.

In other mind-boggling news about separated shoulders, I read this article about Pete Rose's infamous takeout of Ray Fosse in the 1970 All-Star game. Apparently, Fosse played for 7 years after the collision-even being named to the 1971 All-Star team-yet we're always reminded of how Rose ended his career with the play at the plate at Riverfront Stadium, even though his career ended in 1977 after he broke his neck while attempting to break up a locker room fight. Bizzare.

Monumental Return

A few things I've learned while living and working in Sugar Land this summer:

Sanding the bottom side of a patio roof is fun, I really enjoy it. Actually, the opposite is true. Sanding is difficult, and not fun. It's a little, how should I say it...balmy? in South Texas and having paint chips fall, and subsequently stick to, your arms, face and hair, is not what I call a fun time. However, I can't complain too much because the past two days have consisted of a little work and a lot of Internet-surfing at the job, so I guess you can say that I'm getting mine today. (I'm on break as I type this. There is now a white powder covering the keyboard)

I try not to be a very superstitious person, but I HATE the cover of this year's Dave Campbell's Texas Football magazine. I won't put up a link, but if you've seen it, you'll know.

Speaking of the Horns-and I was-I'm still bitter about game one of the CWS. 5 home runs for a total of 5 runs, a two run lead with two outs in the ninth...uggghhh. Coulda, shoulda, woulda, I know, but that's a game they had, but lost it.

Stories like this and this have literally kept me up at night fuming about the state of our judicial system. They're a little long reads, especially the second one, but take a few minutes and knock them out-it's worth it. I know not everyone in the legal world is this backward, and a 'normal' court case would not be worth writing a story about, but it is still infuriating that things like these can happen in 2009. To the three new attorneys that check in on JAT once and a while-save us, please.

Hook 'Em

Livin On A Prayer

Back with some videos for your viewing pleasure:
A couple weeks ago, this video surfaced about a minor league baseball player who could do a crazy trick with his bat.

Well, he's back with more, and it's awesome.


No telling how many aspiring ballplayers racked themselves trying to duplicate Womack's feat.

Lastly, a classic Conan piece from his 'old' show. It sorta long, but worth it:

Not My Girl

Opened up Internet Explorer to find this on the front page. Not that I'm a Jacko fan, but dang, that sucks. (Although I'm hesitant to put it on the same scale as Chad Johns...er, Ochocinco does)

On the same day that Michael Jackson dies, Ricky Rubio will become the first player born in the NINETEEN NINETIES to be drafted into the NBA. I'm officially old.

In a completely unrelated story, I'm about to begin reading The Narcissism Epidemic. I think Bob should hustle on down to Barnes & Noble and pick himself up a copy.




Check out more awkward family photos at awkwardfamilyphotos.com. Really.

Mark Wahlberg's Wearin A Hat

I've mentioned before how much I loved Michael Lewis' The Blind Side. Apparently, I'm not the only one (duh, it was a national bestseller) because Sony pictures is in the process of making a movie version of Michael Oher's life, since apparently the 22 year old hasn't already had enough rich white people documenting/profiting from his life.

It's not that I won't see the movie, on the contrary, I hope it does the book justice and opens a lot of eyes to the public education system in America. However, I've got to admit to feeling a little queasy about all this, especially given the fact that EmpireOnline described the movie as a 'comedy-drama.' Ummm...comedy? Oh boy.

Maybe if they waited until Oher's NFL career was over, or at least he establishes himself apart from the Tuohy family. Right now, again, it just seems a little too much, too soon with too many people looking to make a buck off Oher's uniqe story.

Happy Father's Day

That's all, Happy Father's Day!

Taste The Rainbow

Heck yeah, boyyyeeeeeeee!!

After a too long hiatus, Sour Skittles is bringing back grape.

That's what's going on here, back to you, Bob.

Bedtime Stories In The Year 2000

Came across this video, and it is truly...something. It's pretty amazing to see this report from the early 1990's with William Gates and Thomas Brokaw discussing a newfangled device called the 'internet.'
Almost two decades later, and I'm still not sure exactly how the interwebs work, but it's hard to imagine life without it (them?) today.



For those of you who are wondering...yes, this will pretty much be the format for JAT for the next few weeks and probably months. A funny, weird, or semi-inspiring video with a little commentary. Every now and then I may chime in with a baseball thought, but we'll get going with more sports in the fall, when football starts. And who knows, there may even be a new blog site by then. Until then, go Rangers, Hook 'em Horns, and enjoy your summer.

Umm...

Words cannot describe

Just Kidding

Got 'em!! Man, that was funny. Y'all thought I was leaving JAT to start a new blog! HAHA boy, if only you could have seen the look on y'alls faces!!

Actually, the move will happen, I've just been a little preoccupied with school and haven't given a new blog much thought. Hold your horses, the move will happen eventually.

In response to RDAD's post about Honduras fans outnumbering the USA fans approximately 4 to 1 a few nights ago: Not surprised. That really is my only response. In Houston last year, the Jig and I witnessed this firsthand, but being outnumbered 4 to 1 then would have been a positively even-feeling crowd, as it seemed more like 7 to 1 that night in Mammoth Reliant.

In any event, I thought ESPN did a great job of focusing on the contingent, however small, of US fans during the telecast. Watching it from home, I would have guessed that the Americans outnumbered the Honduras fans pretty comfortably, but I guess not. It's sorta how the Superdome has different colored seats, so that no matter how bad the Saints stink, it will always look like there's a sellout crowd on TV. True story.

In other news:

After the debacle in New York last Tuesday, I was too happy that the Rangers put Vicente Padilla on waivers. After his performance in Boston yesterday, I'm glad that no one claimed him.

A great joke about Padilla, courtesy of Deadspin:
"Hey Vicente, can you say your last name three times fast for me?"
"Padilla, Padilla, Padilla."
"THAT'S ALL FOLKS!"
That absolutely kills me.

This Is The Last Song

Well, not really the last song, but the last post. I've finally decided to start a new blog, one that I can link other blogs and sites to, and one that will hopefully be a little more aesthetically pleasing to you, the reader. There won't be any other differences between the new one and JAT, so don't get too torn up about this transition, it really isn't that big a deal.

Only problem is that I can't think of a good name for the new blog. That's where you come in. Leave suggestions in the comments area and I'll consider, and maybe even choose, one to be the name of the new site.

Hopefully the new blog will be ready to go within a week. It's a slow time in sports, so it seems like a good time to make the transition, hopefully there will be minimal confusion among the five of you what's going on, and where you can find my infrequent thoughts on sports, literature, and pop culture.

Jig and Twig, you've been good to me, but it's time to spread my wings and take on the internets by myself (Wipes tear from cheek). Goodbye, JAT.

Are We Finished Yet

If you haven't heard already, UT played the longest game in NCAA baseball history last night/this morning, winning 3-2 in 25 innings.

Among many contenders, the MVP for the Horns is pitcher Austin Wood. As a reliever, he pitched 14 scoreless innings, including 12.1 innings of no-hit baseball, logging almost 170 pitches total. While it would have been a historic game to be at, it may not have been too exciting until the end. BC went 8-80 at the plate, and the Horns were just 20-91. Be sure to check Burnt Orange Nation for further analysis.

Also, I came across this at a Kansas Jayhawk blog. It takes a look at how to fix the college football playoff mess by implementing a Premier League-type system. There are a few flaws to the hypothetical situation, but I'm mostly in favor of something like this. It seems relatively simple and clear. However, I'm sure that any Tennessee fan would not take to being put in the Bottom Tier League behind East Carolina and Troy. Take a look, it's a good way to kill 30 minutes or so.

Do You Remember, Remember That Summer?

Yesterday, I hooked up my very old-school Nintendo to our guest room TV. This was exciting for me, because, while I'm not much of a gamer, I do love me some RBI Baseball and Tecmo Super Bowl, and because I spent many hours during my last two years of college playing against Brandon, Garrett, and Jake in these games. Good memories.

Because the 'music,' for lack of a better term, on these games is so annoying, me and my friends would always mute the TV and put my iTunes on shuffle to use as the backdrop for our virtual competition. Of course, being the nostalgic person I am, it immediately brought me back to the Burgh, sitting in Garrett's old dirty blue recliner, wasting the day away.

As I listened to the music in the background, it inevitably came across some songs by some bands that I hadn't listened to in a while. After my gaming session was over (I went 1-1 with the Cowboys in TSB, and 3-0 with the Tigers in RBI, thank you very much) I went to my computer to check out the websites for some of the bands I had sort of forgotten.

Much to my surprise and dismay, I found that four of the five bands I listened to the most in college are no longer performing together. Out of Greatness in Tragedy, The Feds, Something Corporate*, Flickerstick, and Blue October, only Blue is still a band. This is not entirely surprising, since they've had the most commercial success, and members of some of the other bands have moved on to new groups, but still. The music I listened to not that long ago can now only be heard on the computer, ipod, or a CD, as there won't be any new songs or concerts to look forward to in the future.

I can't tell you how much time and money I spent going to the shows of those five bands, especially the smaller-time GIT, and Feds, who played most of their concerts in north Texas. I'll never ever ever ever forget the rinky-dink concert those two played at, in all places, Coleman, Texas in some abandoned-looking junior high gym. The crowd was small, and the sound system was terrible, but both groups gave it their all, and put on an entertaining set. Afterwards, my friends and I went to eat at the lobby of the old hotel they were staying at. It's funny to look back on it now. Those guys, in our eyes, were absolute rock stars, no matter what their record sales or iTunes download number were, and to get to hang out with them after a concert that they must have absolutely hated playing, was a memory I'll never forget.

Of course, the best show I saw them play was five years (whaaaatt?!?!!?) ago at the Curtain Club in Dallas, at the Feds CD release party. Much different than the Coleman show, there was a packed house of rowdy fans, the bands sounded great, and the Feds played for two hours. One of the most memorable weekends of my life.

The Blue, Flickerstick, and SoCo concerts I witnessed were fantastic, but because they were more recognizable bands, it didn't seem quite as special to watch them, since they could sell out and put on a great show almost anywhere. Regardless, I literally got a pit in my stomach yesterday when I found out that Flickerstick had broken up a few months ago. I found out about the Feds plans to disband this past December and got the same feeling.

I don't listen to new music much anymore, as my radio is set to basically talk radio of the political and sport kind, and Christian music for commercial breaks. Because of this, I feel a disconnect between the bands I enjoy, and what's popular out there today. As much as I'd love to be hip and all, I don't see myself buying a Laday GaGa CD any time soon (You're welcome, by the way, for having "Mymymymymymy poker face" stuck in your head for the rest of the day). I guess I'll have to stick to old YouTube clips of these bands, since seeing them in concert is out the door. At least I'll always have one good memory of Coleman, Texas.

*I looked at SoCo's website, and it only said that the lead singer is now involved in another project, and there were no new tour dates, so maybe they're just taking a break, and haven't officially ended the band. If anyone knows for sure, leave a comment.

So Amazing

As promised, a semi-relevant post of thoughts and observations after a two-week whirlwind tour of Hawaii and Texas:

I love watching college baseball. The College World Series is one of my favorite televised sporting events. Unfortunately, for unknown reasons, the CWS is basically the only way a fan can watch college baseball. That being said, I was obviously happy to see the tape-delayed airing of UT's victory over Mizzou in the Championship game, and see them get the number one overall seed. Hope to see you in Omaha, Horns.

After two mostly sub-standard rounds, the Conference Finals have been superb. The play everyone will remember-if Cleveland comes back to win the series, that is-is Bron's game winner in game two. I'll especially remember it, because I was watching the game in a, umm, restaurant that shows a lot of sports games on the eve of my 25th birthday. The TV me and my buddies were watching was a regular, non-HD television, while the rest of the patrons watched on fancy, HDTV's on the other side of the establishment. For those of you who don't know, HDTV has about a three-second delay over non-HD's. Anyway, this came in handy, as we were able to effectively spoil the outcome before everyone else, as we began yelling, screaming, and generally raising a muck before everyone else saw the result. That was fun.

Update from the Scripps National Spelling Bee: A kid who thinks Denver will beat Cleveland in the Finals and admits that his sister is a better speller than him just spelled acmonital. Impressive.

Next favorite part of game two: Talking about how The Shot will soon become one of those cool "Amazing" commercials, and about seven minutes later seeing this. Cue the chillbumps.

If only the Rangers could get some pitching, they may be a decent team. Wait, what?

My not-so-bold NBA Finals prediction: Lakers over Magic in 6. Kobe gets his, and LeBron gets out (In one more year, that is)

Update number two from the Spelling Bee: Erin Andrews just interviewed the 13-year favorite. In the least surprising turn of events ever, he sounded like he had never talked to a girl. Ever.

Wish list for future books, in case you feel generous and want to mail me something, you know, just because: No Angel, House To House, The Book of Basketball, The Narcissism Epidemic, and Blink.

Second To Lastly...just check this out:


Lastly, and this is just an observation. I don't want this to turn into a political blog or discussion, but I had to bring this up. I saw this video the other day on TV. It's of the Prez going to a small, mom and pop type burger joint in Virginia, apparently in an attempt to show everyone that he's just a regular guy, like you and me.



Not to get all Hannity on everyone, but a basic cheddar cheeseburger, medium well? A request for spicy Dijon mustard? For all the talk of how Obama is the nation's first 'cool' president, he sure can come across like a gigantic nerd. Yeah, I said it.

Hello Again

Well I've been back on the mainland for about a week and haven't blogged anything. I don't have anything interesting to add right now, but I will say that I'd like to go back on an earlier comment from this here blog.

I said that I'd like to see Kobe win a ring without Shaq. While this would go a long way in cementing his place in history, any admiration I have for 24 has gone out the window after watching the Rockets/Lakers series last week. Joey Halbert warned me about Kobe's diva-ness after my statement, but I paid it no heed at the time. Kobe is, beyond question, the most selfish, whining, crybaby in professional sports and I hope that BronBron dee-stroyyss him in the Finals if Melo doesn't get to it first.

In closing, I found the perfect date night for Zach Allen and Luke Reeves: Notre Dame and The Yankees, together at last.

Hang in there folks, I'll get into posting relevant thoughts once this jet lag finally wears off. Out.

Mahalo

Update from Oahu: If you want to see what I look like with a bit of a sunburn, head on over to Our Happy Life. More pics to come in the future, stay tuned loved ones.

Aloha Means Goodbye

Long story short: My parents saved up on frequent flyer miles to take me, Kayla and my brother to Hawaii for his (my brother's) graduation gift. For various reasons-gotta find a job-he isn't going. Oh well, thanks for graduating, Reid, I'm getting a sweet gift because of it.

Since I won't be around for a week or so, I'll leave you with a few links to occupy your time.

For those of you who love infomercials and buying random junk: Maybe you shouldn't buy that.

Thuuuuuhh Yankees Suck! Thuuuu-uuuuuuhhh Yankees Suck!

Soak it in, Yankee haters, there's plenty to go around.

That'll do it for know, see you on North Shore.

A-Fraud(ulent) Accusation

Let me be the first to say that I'm not an A-Rod fan. He's obviously a very talented baseball player, and has/had the potential to go down as one of the greats, before all the events of the past three months or so.

However, I feel like I've got to defend him just a little for some of the new allegations that are coming up. Selena Roberts, the reporter who broke the story that Rodriguez failed a PED test while with the Rangers, has now come out with accusations that he may have begun using steroids while in high school, as well as tipping off opposing players in hopes of getting a return tip later in games.

Obviously, if these allegations are proven to be true, anything ARod does for the rest of his career-and everything he's already done, for that matter-cannot be taken seriously, and all of his accomplishments will be looked upon as not being legitimate. The problem I have with all of this, quite honestly, is the fact that, after making these allegations and putting them in her book, Selena Roberts has decided that she will not testify in court against ARod. I clearly don't know a lot about the way the law is set up in these circumstances, but since approximately 60% of the readership of this blog is a recent graduate or almost graduate of law school (congrats on that, by the way guys) I was hoping I could get some help with this situation.

Maybe I'm missing something here, but it doesn't seem right to me that Roberts can make allegations, namely that he used in high school and tipped off opponents during games, and not back them up in court, which I assume will happen, as Rodriguez would/should file a defamation suite.

From what I understand, Roberts claimed that Rodriguez may have used in high school. That's pretty serious stuff, in my opinion, to claim that a 17 year old may have used illegal substances, and then not be willing to back it up with clear evidence. Also, from what I understand, the test that Rodriguez failed in 2003 was supposed to be confidential, and there are apparently 103 other players who failed, but who's names have not been released.

Basically, none of that seems kosher to me. I know ARod has been a target for criticism ever since signing for a gazillion dollars with Texas in 2001, but that shouldn't give people the right to come out with (possibly) unfounded allegations against him, or rat him out for doing something that over 100 other ballplayers did, making him a poster-boy for everything that is wrong with baseball, a modern-day Barry Bonds now that he's been chased out of the game.

Again, I'm no expert, but help me out here. Is it alright to make these accusations and not testify in court? Why is it fine to talk about ARod's PED use when he's clearly not the only one to use, just the wealthiest? Please, throw me a bone, I'm confused.

Just A Squirrel Living In An Apatow World

Not much going on here. Oh wait, actually I've got to finish a project today which will mark the end of the semester. Yee-haw. In the meantime, enjoy these two videos, it's on me.

PAUL BROGAN - MVP 2009


This may not be funny if you're not familiar with Judd Apatow's work. However, if you've seen Sarah Marshall, Anchorman, Knocked Up, Dewey Cox, etc, you'll get a kick out of this one. I did at least.



Ummm, looks like it's not showing up here, must have messed up the embedded thingy. If you just can't get through the day without seeing it, click on the link below, and enjoy. Or not, no biggie.

Watch In An Apatow World on CollegeHumor

Lastly, ummm, no words really...

Draft Follow-Up

Well, now that the draft is over, and you know my thoughts about JJones, why don't we talk about something new...Hmmm, I know, how about the Texas Longhorns and the NFL Draft? Pull my leg, you got me.

This is actually from the fine folks at Burnt Orange Nation, but I came across this fanpost while scrolling around the other day. This weekend marked the fourth draft class to come from the Greatest Game Ever, and as the writer notes, an astonishing 54 players who were active in the game are currently on NFL rosters, either via the draft or free agency. That stat amazed me. That's an entire NFL roster, just from two college teams meeting in one game. It's no wonder why the game was so entertaining.

While Young, Bush and Leinart got the most press, both teams were obviously stacked with talent on both sides of the ball. All of UT's secondary from that game is in the NFL, as is all of USC's linebacking corp. 10 of the 11 offensive starters for UT are also in the NFL, and if it weren't for some off the field issues (coughcoughramoncetaylorcough) a key sub in that game would be as well. I can't take credit for the post, but it's worth looking at, and reading the comments at the bottom. One of the comments that struck me is that, even though there were so many NFL-caliber players in the game, only two (VY and Michael Griffin) have made to Pro Bowl in the three seasons since. Just goes to show how truly great you have to be to be an NFL standout.

In more draft news, Quan Cosby signed with the Bengals, making them the second team, along with the Bears, to sign a former ACU and UT player in the same draft.

With The First Pick...

(Update at 7:58 pm, 2009 NFL Draft is over) I've officially had it with Jerry Jones. It's been a long-standing rumor that the former Hog has a thing against Longhorns, and that he won't draft them. After recent trades for Leonard Davis and Roy Williams, I hoped that this discrimination was in the past. It's also been a long-standing fact that he's a grade-A jerk and generally unlikeable human. If there were any question of either, especially the former, this draft has proven it in my mind. Jerry goes and drafts an Aggy and Red Raider with two of their first picks. Bad enough, yes, but with their last pick of the day, apparently in search of an undersized WR from the Big XII, he passes on the completely acceptable and totally awesome choice of Quan Cosby for...an undersized WR from Soonerland. I actually thought about switching allegiances to Da Bears who today picked Henry Melton AND Johnny Knox, late of THE Abilene Christian University. That thought didn't last long, but still. That now puts the count at two Cats and two Horns in Chitown, which is more than I can say for the Boys. Here's hoping that if Quan doesn't sign as a free agent in Dallas, that he goes to an NFC East rival and torches the Boys twice a year. Yeah, I said it.

Today is one of my favorite days of the year. After Thanksgiving, Christmas, June 9th, January 4th, and Sing Song weekend, the NFL Draft is one of the days I circle on my imaginary calendar as a 'can't miss' TV day. If nothing else, I love following who the Cowboys draft, along with where former Horns get picked. Fortunately, this year features three ACU alums who will either get drafted or signed as free agents. You can follow their progress here. Unfortunately, I have a boatload of projects coming due next week, but fortunately I also have DVR, which will allow me to speed through the Draft quickly, so as to not waste too much valuable time. Here now, a few memorable draft memories (was that redundant?):

2007 draft, spent with Jig in Belton. I was on spring break from Graham Jr. High, and came home to watch the draft with Mr Wardell. A very entertaining draft, made especially awesome when, with the 9th pick, the Dolphins were expected to take an already free-falling Brady Quinn since, you know, they didn't have a decent QB at the time. Instead, they took a one-footed return man from THE Ohio State, Teddy Ginn Jr. Jake and me went absolutely bonkers when Ginn's name was announced, but the reaction was tenfold from Dolphin fans who, let's just say weren't thrilled with the selection. However, it did, as you can tell, spawn a ton of great YouTube reaction videos that never get old. It's not hard to wonder why the Fins went 1-15 and had the number one pick in 2008. However, to be fair, they made the right choice that time (Jake Long, left takle), and seem to be heading in the right direction sans Quinn.

2006: The New York Jets, who annually disappoint their fans, go 'smart,' by addressing their offensive line needs, drafting D'Brickashaw Fergeson and Nick Mangold, both in the first round. While the draft class of '06 hasn't turned into any deep playoff runs, both offensive linemen have been starters since they stepped on the field, and Mangold has been in the Pro Bowl.

Yeah, that's it for now, I'm not thinking too deeply. It's currently 3:05, meaning the Lions are about to curse Matt Stafford with being their first pick, but oh well, I'm sure $40 mill can help remove the stench of Detroit from his career.

I'll See Your Barkevious And Raise You A Macadangdang

It's all come down do this. 62 have been eliminated, only two remain, and time is running out. Every one of you should go to Name of the Year and cast your ballots for the final two, Barkevious Mingo, the 4 seed from the Bulltron Region or Iris Macadangdang, the one seed from the Chrotchtangle Region.

I realize this plug is a bit late, and if you've visited Deadspin, BON, or Every Day Should Be Saturday within the last six weeks, you've already seen the ballot and have possibly voted. However, for my dad and father-in-law, here's your chance to be exposed to the greatest internet time-waster, EVER. Please, even if you don't vote, check out the original bracket and laugh your patooty off at some of the gems presented by NOTY. And yes, for inquiring minds, the 5 seed in the Dragon Wagon Region is in fact Temple High's Lache Seastrunk, the number one (or two, depending on who you ask) rated running back prospect in the state for 2010.

Some personal favorites that didn't make the finals: Shot Kleen, Velvet Milkman, Muffin Lord, Calamity McEntire, Bunkless Bovian. Honestly, what is going on here?

My two cents: Barkevious is a Texan, and he gets my vote, even though he's abandoning the great state and attending LSU in the fall. Geaux get 'em, Barkevious.

Another List, Read It

Some reviews of books I've been reading in recent months, with five *'s being the best recommendation:

The Road, Cormac McCarthy

Dark, depressing, hard to read. As JScott said, "After finishing the book, I can now rest easy knowing that we'll be spared at least one 'Feel-Good Movie of the Year' blurb in 2009." I couldn't put it down. I began this novel on a Thursday and finished in the wee hours that Sunday morning. Highest recommendation*****.

The Year Of Living Biblically, AJ Jacobs

A very interesting look about an agnostic Jewish New York writer who lives for a year as a follower of the Bible, taking its words as literally as possible. It's very eye-opening, and even though I don't agree with most of Jacobs' views after his 'experiment,' it was definitely worth reading.*****

Outliers, Malcom Gladwell


A unique look at why successful people are successful. It's entirely possible (and likely) that Gladwell conveniently looked at people and stats that supported his theory, but I don't care. Loved it.****

Loose Balls, Terry Pluto

This book has been one of the best-selling sports books of all time, and it delivers. Pluto fills the book with first-hand accounts of players, coaches, GM's, and others who experienced the ABA as it happened. Filled with entertaining and eye-opening tales of an era that changed the way that basketball is both played and marketed today.****

Busting Vegas, Ben Mezrich


Similar idea of last year's Bringing Down the House, also by Mezrich, but not nearly as good. If you're gonna read one of them, read BDtH.***

Grave In Gaza, Matt Beynon Rees

My least favorite book in this list. It's one of those fictional stories based on true events. I didn't follow it too well, but it's basically a story of bad things going on in Gaza.**

Fast Food Nation, Eric Schusser

I had no idea this book was as old as it is, (copyright 2001) but it was still relevant and quite disturbing. It looks at the growing trend of cattle farms, and the rush to 'raise meat' in the fastest, cheapest way possible, often to the detriment of the cattle, meat packers, and consumers.****

The Lost City of Z, David Grann

Good, but not quite as good as I anticipated. Still, it was an informative account of early exploration in the Amazon, and worth taking a look at.***

When March Went Mad, Seth 'My Favorite Dookie' Davis

Centers around the 1978-79 NCAA basketball season of Michigan State and Indiania State, which culminated with the much-hyped (but largely disappointing) Championship game featuring Bird and Magic, which launched college basketball into its golden age of the 1980's.****

Odd Man Out, Matt McCarthy

I mentioned a few weeks ago how the author was a teammate of Quan Cosby in the Angles single-A team in the summer of 2002. It was an easy, entertaining read that's mostly a lighthearted look at life as a minor-leaguer.****

The Breaks Of The Game, David Halberstam

Due to school getting busier by the second, I haven't gotten too far into this one yet, but it's looking good so far. Halberstam chronicles the 1979-80 season of the Portland Trail Blazers, and is another historic, best-selling book by Halberstam.***

Dog Days Of Spring

Well, The Wife (see the how I capitalized that? Take notes, boys) is out of town for the weekend, which gives me plenty of time to sit in front of the TV and blog about baseball and the NBA playoffs. Lucky you.

HDTV is a great thing. It enhances the experience of watching almost any program, but especially sports. Of course there are a few exceptions to this phenomenon. In any case, the Rangers' new red jerseys look pheeee-nomenal (copyright Jim Rome) in high-def.

Did I mention I love the Rangers bringing back the red? I do, I really do. The best part of it is that they didn't go completely back to the 1990's look. They still have the blue lettering and numbers with red trim on the white jerseys, along with the blue helmets on the road (and occasionally at home). If you have no other reason for tuning in to a Ranger game this season, it's worth it to see what combo they'll be wearing on any particular night.

Bad times in H-Town so far. Not like my Rangers are killing it either, (they're 4-5 and losing 4-0 as I type) but the LAstros (thank you, Garrett) are pretty sad. May want to reevaluate those season tickets, JScott.

Maybe it's from listening to JackO on the BSReport, maybe it's all the hubbub on ESPN about the new stadium, but the Yankees are slowly becoming not completely intolerable. Congrats, guys.

I haven't been too geeked about the NBA this season, but I am more than ready for the playoffs. I'm afraid the Spurs will have a short stay of it, but the Portland/Houston, Denver/Nawlins, Atlanta/Miami should be fantastic first-round matchups before the inevitable LA/Cleveland epic in the Finals.

And what an epic it will be. I've never been a Kobe fan, but I'd like to see him win one without Shaq. Everyone gives Shaq a pass when it comes to criticising him, because he's the 'big, goofy, fun-lovin, Twittering, lovable' Shaq, but he's proven himself to be an extremely self-centered teammate who won't take criticism from anyone, and who's probably wasted a big part of his talent-as crazy as that is-being too concerned with his image. All that to say, while Kobe probably isn't the best guy in the world, he's recognized as one of the hardest-working guys in the league who takes a TON of crap from media and fans, all without saying anything to fuel the fire.
On the other hand, I'd like to see Bron Bron win one in Cleveland in hopes that it may convince him to stick around after next season. Regardless of who you root for, an LA/Cleveland Finals should be one for the ages, and one that all basketball fans will love to watch.

I Don't Like This McCoy/Aikman Partnership

Quite simply, the best bridesmaids/groomsmen outfits ever.

After a weekend of building a horseshoes dynasty with the Father in Law, it's back to the grind. I watched the season finale of Friday Night Lights last night, and-as always-I was thrilled with the episode and the direction the series will take the next two years.

I've read on various blogs and websites that, while this season was great, it didn't compare to the first season. I have to disagree. While the first season was no doubt a great one, the third season was an absolute tour-de-force. (I don't know what that means exactly, but it sounds cool) They cut a lot of the unrealistic football scenes, added some key characters, set up some interesting scenarios for the future, and absolutely brought it with emotional scenes in almost every episode. It's been documented here before, but only one episode this season failed to bring my wife to tears. Not bad for a teen-centric football show.

Some things to look forward to:

Will JD somehow follow Coach Taylor to EDHS?

How long will Riggins stay at San Antonio State before returning to Dillon to work with his brother?

Will someone finally take a crowbar to Joe McCoy's kneecaps?

Is Tammy going to stay on as principal at Dillon High after they forced her husband out?

Will the East Dillon Lions play more than 7 regular season games and 3 playoff game, unlike the 2008 Dillon Panthers?

If Saracen stays in Dillon, what's he gonna do? I can't imagine an interesting storyline if he just takes care of his grandmother, but I guess we'll see.

I enjoy all the Texas-centric names on the show...Wade Aikman, Matt Saracen (Saracen was the name of Sam Houston's horse) JD McCoy, et all, but I wonder what the next one will be. My bet is a hot shot freshman linebacker 'recruit' named Ricky 'White Shoes' Henderson. Maybe it's a stretch, but I like it.

How many episodes into next season will Julie wreck her new Chevy and blame her mom?

All these queries and more have me absolutely amped for next season. Clear Eyes, Full Hearts. Go Lions.

I Had To Turn My Heart Away

Current Reading: In keeping with my newfound attraction to books about basketball in the 1970's, David Halberstam's The Breaks of The Game. It has a quote from Bill Simmons on the cover. I guess he's considered a legitimate sports writer now. Congrats, Bill.

I'm just gonna let this email from my dad be today's post:

'I was catching up on your blog. Did you have to post the clip of the tt/Texas game?? It's like driving by a wreck on the highway - can't help but watch. Yeah, my stomach hurt, too, and yeah, I knew Gideon would catch it this time! Gives me an idea for your blog, if you haven't done it already: Have your readers list their top 3/5 sports heartbreakers. I've got a bunch off the top of my head: Ice Bowl (Starr's QB sneak), the Colt's O'Brien's last second winning field goal v. Dallas, The Catch (49er v. Dallas), The Other Catch and non-catch (Swann and Jackie Smith, Steelers v. Dallas), Fumbled punt by freshman (Ga. v. UT, and there goes the National Championship), I'm not listing the other blown N.C., Notre Dame v. UT & Earl, because they beat the snot out of us), P. Harvesters v. Palo Duro Dons, 1974, 45 yard counter option pass from Stanley Stambaugh to Larry Lipscomb into a 40 mph wind in 40 degree weather at Dick Bivins Stadium in Amarillo to win 12-9, PHS goes 8-2, and 4-1 in district, and stays home (only good thing about all of this, Lipscomb wasn't my responsibility - he was on the opposite side - I can still remember just drifting down the field watching that ball keep flying through the air FOREVER, and falling in to LL's hands as he galloped down the side line... and, finally, P. Harvesters v. Caprock Longhorns (yes, Longhorns!), 1975, blocked punt returned for TD late in Q3 by Caprock to spur them to a 34-22 win in D. Bivins Stadium (D.B. sucks!!!) in game #1 of district. We win out the next four by allowing a total of 12 points, including 3 shutouts in a row, end up 8-2, and 4-1 in district, and stay home (sound familiar)? This was worse than walking 2 miles in the snow barefooted to school uphill both ways!!!'

A few notes:

You know its Texas high school football in the 1970's with names likes Stanley Stambaugh and Larry Lipscomb.

As good as it's been to be a Texas Longhorn and Dallas Cowboy fan for the most part, the mentions of The Catch, Ice Bowl, and the Punt Drop Game are harsh reminders of how sports can break your heart. (The Punt Drop Game-The game that spawned this joke in Georgia: Q: "What time is it in Texas?" A: "Ten to nine." I wasn't even alive for that game, and it hurts.)

Let me be the first to say, I don't like the direction that Texas high school athletics is going, allowing four teams from each district into the playoffs. It was three back in my day, and that was pushing it. It seems like they're promoting the 'every kid is a winner' ideology, and awarding mediocrity with a playoff spot, even though fourth place teams inevitably get housed by a first place team in the first game. Dang liberals. Anyway, as bad as that rule is, how bad was it in the 70's when they only allowed one team in? Case in point, the 1974 and 1975 Pampa Harvesters. They go 4-1 in district each year, and apparently had a hellacious defense, led by none other than Safety Johnny Agan, but miss the playoffs because they weren't the first place finisher. That stings.

Anyway, as my dad said, what are some of your biggest heartbreaks as a fan or player? My top few are:

The 2001 Big XII championship game. (Chris Simms stinks up the joint in the first half, Major comes in to almost save the day, UT misses a shot at Miami in the National Championship)

2002 UT Vs Tech: I went to this game my freshman year at ACU. Texas-again-would have probably played for the NC game, but they fell by four to Tech. Uggghhh.

2001 Bi-District playoff, Belton Vs Navasota: This one hurts personally, because I pretty much cost us the game. A Jared Houston 3 pointer at the buzzer sent it into overtime, where we lost. I played well throughout the game, with the exception of free throws. I was 1 for 6 in regulation, 1 for 2 in OT. If I make just one more in regulation, that last three pointer wins the game, and we advance. For the record, I was a 71% free-throw shooter that season.

1995 District Baseball Tournament, Belton Indians: After winning our first 35 games of the season, and looking like a legitimate threat to be the next MLB exhibition team, we lose two in a row to teams we had beat in previous tournaments. The state tourney was held in Belton that year, so it especially hurt when we got eliminated.

A few others of note: The Derek Fisher game, Leon Lett on Thanksgiving, UT basketball falling to LSU in Overtime in 2006 with a shot at the Final Four on the line, Dallas getting beat (soundly) in San Fran in Barry's first year.