The Jig and Twig

Al Vidasein, Goodbye

2009-10-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-24T14:11:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-03T07:03:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

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.

2009-07-16T07:16:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

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.

2009-07-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Hook 'Em

Livin On A Prayer

2009-06-27T06:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-21T18:27:00.001-07:00

That's all, Happy Father's Day!

Taste The Rainbow

2009-06-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-16T09:13:00.001-07:00

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...

2009-06-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Words cannot describe

Just Kidding

2009-06-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-31T13:35:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-05-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-26T10:09:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-22T05:31:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

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...

2009-04-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

(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

2009-04-21T07:24:00.001-07:00

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

2009-04-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-07T06:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Heads Or Tails

2009-04-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, the NFL Rules Committee decided not to change its overtime policy. This disappointed me, because I don't like the coin-flip determining who gets the ball, because all too often it seems like the team who receives the kick ends up winning after a short drive and field goal.

On the other hand, the college game doesn't have the best solution either. Yes, each team gets equal opportunities, but from 35 yards out, it's not difficult to get at least a field goal, and the 'you must go for two after touchdowns after the 2nd OT' rule seems a bit contrived, and Pop Warner to me. Gun to my head, I prefer the college rules because, again, at least both teams get a shot.

I guess the point of all this ramblings is this: What would be your ideal OT situation if you could make it up? Or do you prefer one of the existing methods as is?

If it were up to me, I'd install something of an NBA-type overtime. One 10 minute extra session, with possession being determined by a coin flip, just like the beginning of the game. If the game is tied at the end of the period, it ends in a tie. There are some down sides to this, I admit: Football is a physical game, and playing 10 extra minutes is asking a lot of players and can expose them to more risk of injury. Also, the point of OT is to break the tie, and after 70 minutes of playing, it would seems pretty empty to walk away with a tie.

At the same time, that what happens occasionally nowadays, with games ending after 15 extra minutes if no one scores. However, I see this as a good remedy, because field possession is still a factor-which it isn't in college-along with special teams. Also, each team should get at least one possession, but there isn't a threat of the game going on forever and ever, like it is in college.

Maybe it's not the best way, but let's be honest, Rog Goddell won't take the advice of this blog anyway, so who cares? Anyway, let me know what you think, and we can have our happy little ideal scenario in this corner of the internets.

It Puts The Jello In The Pudding Pops

2009-04-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

Current Reading: Odd Man Out, by Matt McCarthy
So far, its a pretty entertaining first hand look behind the scenes of a minor-league team. The book has come under a bit of fire, however, for possibly stretching the truth in some of the stories, so we'll have to keep an eye on that. Fibs or not, my favorite part thus far is the fact (I assume it's a fact) that the author was roommates with a now former UT wide-receiver. I won't ruin it for you, but here's a hint: His name rhymes with Juan Schosby. Hmmmm...

One of my favorite parts of any new sports season starting is Paul Lukas' take on updated uniforms on his UniWatch Blog. It is the beginning of April, baseball is upon us, an Lukas is here to help.

It's Easy And Cool To Brush Before School

2009-03-31T14:38:00.001-07:00

These aren't sports related, but I had to pass along two items of interest:

The Touch And Brush

The Peekaru, a Snuggie for infants.

Question is, readers, which is more absurd?

Also, while we're on the topic of annoying infomercials, the ShamWow guy got arrested for, wait for it...hitting a prostitute. Ughhh.

Attoning For Past Mistakes

2009-03-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

This picture has nothing to do with the column, but any time you can put up the original TCB team, you've got to do it.

One of my new found ways to kill time/delay doing school work is reading old posts on this and other blogs. (For a comprehensive list of said blogs, scroll to the post a few days ago. Yep, still no password)

It is fun to read thoughts, observations, and comments from the past and see how they turned out in real life. For the heck of it, here are some interesting points I came across, as well as some corrections for totally wrong predictions.

From a post about the Cowboys signing Pacman: I endorsed Adam coming to Dallas. I thought that was a good idea at the time, and would work well for the Boys. I was wrong.

From a post talking about the upcoming 2008 NCAA football season. I did not include Colt McCoy as one of the top QB's in the nation. Granted, he was coming off a very mediocre 2007, and there were even some UT fans calling for John Chiles to start, but looking back, that was one of my (thankfully) worst misses ever. And that includes the baby-blue thrift store suit I wore to freshman formal at ACU.

Not interviewing someone from the Real World when that mysterious commenter said I could if i wanted to last spring. Weird sequence of events, but I should have been more proactive.

In a post about UT's basketball uniforms, I mentioned how many teams had gone to Nike's System of Dress. One year later, and even more teams have gone the Dress route. Even Davidson started wearing it in the NIT this year, along with Gonzaga in the NCAA's. Just terrible, someone has to stop Nike.

Saying that Texas would 'probably' miss Jamaal Charles in 2008. Um, yuh think so, Doctor? Yes, they had a great '08, better than anyone, myself included, expected, but how good would they have been if JC was in the lineup? Their biggest offensive woe was not having a reliable running game and, as Shirley Q Liquor would say, "I shudders to think" how potent the offense would have been had Jamaal come back.

At various points, I talked about being a Tech fan. I don't know what it is, but since we've been here, I like them less and less. Before coming to Lubbock, I could stand the Raiders to a degree, as long as they weren't playing Texas, but now, I really can't bring myself to root for them. Of course, this may have something to do with it.*

It was sad to read in post how excited I was about the Cowboys upcoming season. At some point, I claimed that, unless they AT LEAST reached the Super Bowl, it would be a disappointing season. Umm. The way things turned out, it wasn't that bad when they missed the playoffs, because you could see it coming since November, but still. To have such high expectations and fall so short of them is...well, it's being a Dallas Cowboy fan.

Back when Jig posted, he predicted a six loss season for the New England Patriots. They lost five times, but it was still a great prediction.

At one point, I talked about enjoying golf. I have since not done much enjoying, but the Masters is right around the corner, so maybe I'll get back into it. At least for one weekend.

In one of my first posts about Lost, I called Juliette a harlot, and talked about how I didn't like her. Juliette, I'm sorry. You're not a harlot. In fact, I like you a lot. She has her heart in the right place (I think) and the Juliette/Sawyer pair is significantly better than Team Kate/Jack.

I can't think of anything else right now. As the days and months go along, I'll definitely made observations and predictions that will turn out to be completely off-base, and when that day comes, please dear reader, call me out. Until then, so long.

*Watching that video made my stomach hurt. Granted, that could have been the two cups of coffee I drank, but I digress. The clip didn't show UT scoring with 20 seconds left on the play clock (mistake #1)**, but it did show their terrible kick coverage after the kickoff went into the end zone (mistake #2), then the rest of the drive, in which UT allowed Tech to do pretty much anything they wanted, including running the game-winning play a first time, around midfield, with the defensive back not looking at Harrell the entire play. Sound familiar? Then, of course, was the non-interception, that I still think will be caught every time I watch a replay. What makes it even worse that it already is, on this video, is the Tech radio guys talking about how the pass was picked and the game is over, only to realize their team still has life after watching the replay.

**Actually, mistake #1 was the running play that resulted in the safety in the first quarter. Mistake #2 was Shipley dropping a wide-open bomb that would probably have resulted in a momentum-changing TD for the Horns. Those two plays set the tone, and all in all, there were about 20 different things that, if just one or maybe two go UT's way, they win. Someday, I'm going to get over this, I promise.

I've Got A Little Bit Of Time For Killing With Me

2009-03-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

1987. The gift that keeps on giving.

The staff of JAT would like to extend Happy Birthday wishes to Reid Andrew Agan, Twig's younger brother. He's spending his 22nd in the Big Easy. It's not as crazy (I hope) as it sounds, he's allegedly in town for a marketing convention or something like that. Apparently he saw a presentation by someone within the Miami Heat organization, and was pretty impressed.

Needless to say, if he gets a job with an NBA team before I do, words can't describe the level of pissed I'll be. Not that I wouldn't be proud of him or anything, just remember, he's the guy who read Animorphs for three hours straight in the fall of 1997 when we had front-row seats to a Spurs-Rockets tilt in SA. That game was awesome. The Spurs won, and Chuck Barkley got ejected for punting the ball into the stands. Also, the Rockets were staying at our hotel, so I got to pat Clyde Drexler on the shoulder and tell him good luck (even though I rooted for the other team. HAAHAHAHAHAH) as he left for the game. That makes Drexler the second most famous person's shoulder I've patted.

The winner of that category would be Peyton Manning. The setting: A few months later, in December, at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, Arkansas. Uncle Jim got us tickets to the Arkansas-Tennessee game, and our tickets were right by the visiting locker rooms. At the time, I thought I just touched a future Heisman Trophy winner, but alas, it was not to be. Anyway, all that to say Happy Birthday, Brother.

Where'd You Go, I Miss You So

2009-03-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

'Their monuments were not pyramids, which is why they were so hard to find; they were horizontal features. But they're no less extraordinary.'

'In a cave...Roosevelt made another astonishing discovery: seventy-five-hundred-year-old pottery, which predates by more than two thousand years the earliest pottery found in the Andes or Mesoamerica. This means that...as Fawcett radically argued, the region was possibly even a wellspring of civilization throughout South America-that an advanced culture had spread outward, rather than vice-versa.'

In the words of Bill Simmons, "I thought that was interesting."

Z is a fascinating book that spreads light on the golden era of South American exploration. It was a little tough to get through at times, but it brought to light-for me, anyways-the fascination with a continent that had unexplored areas the size of the continental US as recently as the 1920's, as well as the obsession with discovering what happened to the heroic explorer, Percy Harrison "Don't call me Girod" Fawcett. I'll leave it at that and let the book explain the rest of the mystery and attraction that so many had with the Amazon and Fawcett.

Now that I'm finished with Z, I'm getting into the season and have just started Seth Davis' When March Went Mad. So far so good.

A few days ago, the staff over at Running Down a Dream put together a list of all the blogs he keeps up with. Cool idea, Scott, but it's not like you don't have every one's blogs and websites already linked on the side of the blog. I'm not sayin, I'm just sayin.

Regardless, I do think it's a good idea, especially for a blog such as this. Some of you may remember the mythical creature, Jig, who co-founded JAT with me in December of 2007. While it was fun at the time, Jig lost interest and hasn't gotten around to give me his password or make me a blog administrator, so that I can update the site, and make it a little less bland and more reader-friendly. In an email to friends, I vowed not to bother him about the password thingy for the rest of Lent, so I'm not saying anything to him until Good Friday. Or Easter. When does Lent end? I'm afraid I skipped 'Catholic Holidays 101' too much at ACU.

All that to say, I'm gonna link to the blogs and websites I make sure to hit up as often as possible, so hold on to your seats. If your a fledgling blog like this one, expect a jump in page views by 3. It may be time to purchase more bandwidth.

That's it folks. In a few weeks, I may be able to finagle a way to get these links up permanently, but honestly, don't hold your breath.

And yes, that was a Dido reference in the title.

Maddening March

2009-03-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Thoughts and observations while watching my bracket go down the toilet this weekend:

I saw JD McCoy's dad on another TV show the other night. I forgot what the show was, but he was a normal character. By normal, I mean being a guy who keeps himself from berating and controlling every move in his son's life, undermining a state-championship winning football coach, not working, and generally being a pompous you-know-what. Even still, the second I saw him, I had a bad feeling. Now I know how JScott feels every time he sees Joaquin Phoenix after his role in Gladiator. While I thought Scott was talking crazy at the time, given Phoenix's recent behavior, he seems somewhat prophetic.

Like anyone with a pulse who isn't a Buckeye, I loved the ending of the Ohio State/Siena game. However, how does Bill Raftery get away with saying things like "A double order of onions! Garden variety!" after Ronald Moore drilled two three-pointers to win the game?? Is it because he's old so we assume he doesn't know better, or it's March Madness, so everyone is excused to go a little 'out of bounds' with commentary? Again, loved the game, loved the call, but how is the FCC not breaking onions trying to get suspensions or apologies from Raftery and/or CBS?

Speaking of crazy announcers, how crazy would it be if Raftery and Gus Johnson called the Siena/OSU or Gonzaga/WKU game together? Yowzah, I truly think TV sets would explode.

As I type, the Okie State Cowboys just lost to one of my Final Four picks, Pittsburgh. This officially ends any ties I have with college athletes I played against. The first game of my senior year, we played (and beat) Round Rock McNeil, featuring a sharp-shooting freshman, AJ Abrams. The last game of that same year, we lost in the regional quarters to Beaumont Ozen, featuring future NBA champion Kendrick Perkins and a freshman point guard, Byron Eaton. I've made reference before to feeling old, so I won't drown everyone in self-pity, but I guess this is another step into the adult world and away from "Hey, I know that guy! Played against him back in Oh-Two."

That'll do it for now, keep watching FNL and March Madness.

Pick 'Em

2009-03-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

In yesterday's BS Report, JAT favorite Bill Simmons and "My Buddy House" discussed, among other things, what college they would hypothetically attend from each of the BCS conferences, if they were once again 18 with the world at their fingertips. Simmons has hinted in the past that, if he ever leaves Los Angeles, Austin, TX would be on his short list of possible destinations, so it wasn't completely surprising when he chose UT as his Big XII University of Choice. Nevertheless, it cemented The Sports Guy as my favorite sports writer of the new century (I used to not read, so no one gets a vote for the 20th century).
Anyway, it got me thinking: If I could go back in time, and could chose one school to 'attend' from each BCS conference, what would they be? Glad you asked. Since I'm sure you're dying to know what I would do in a completely hypothetical world, here are my choices, minus the Big XII, because if you don't know the answer to that by now, you'll never know. And yes, I realize that I currently attend a(nother) Big XII school. Get over it.

ACC: North Carolina. Florida State's intriguing, but getting the chance to see 10-15 games a year at the Dean Dome and boo the Dookies annually is too great an opportunity to pass up.

Big Ten: Wisconsin. I've never been to the state of 'Sconsin, but it seems like a pretty decent place to live. Plus, the Jump Around tradition before the fourth quarter of games at Camp Randall is, quite simply, awesome. Also, every year at homecoming, I would have the chance to find Ron Dayne and punch him in the nose for passing Ricky Williams' rushing record.

Pac-10: Arizona. The first non-Cowboys Sports Illustrated my dad bought me was in 1994, with the Cats' Desert Swarm Defense on the cover. It was the college football preview issue, and had a picture of a young Teddi Bruschi driving a moped around campus in it. Not a bad way to get from class to class. Honorable mention to Oregon, AzState, UCLA, UDub and USC.

Big East: Hmm. Great basketball conference, but most of the schools are waaaayyy up north, where'd I'd probably be miserable. USF? Maybe, but they began using Texas' Hook em sign (they're the Bulls) and that rubs me the wrong way a little. I think I'm going with Louisville on this one. Not crazy about the pick, but they're a good basketball school and can be great at football in that conference. And it's in the South.

SEC: I can only pick one? Really, this is the most difficult one for me, with the Pac-10 running a close second. Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, LSU, and Kentucky are all intriguing, but as a student, I have always been drawn to Ole Miss. After reading Rammer Jammer Yellowhammer, and learning about the Grove and the atmosphere of the school, I doubt there's a cooler place to spend years 18-22 of your life than Oxford, Miss. Except Abilene, TX, of course.

Bangarang, Peter

2009-03-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

Update from last post: For the betterment of everyone's eyes, it looks like the Rangers have scrapped their two-toned batting helmets for good.

Spring Break started yesterday, so after getting home from a weekend of fun and fellowship in the Metroplex, it's back to sittin around in Lubbock waiting for something (other than school) to do. While I wait, a few thoughts from FNL:

I despise JD McCoy's dad so much, I actually had a dream about him. He shot me in the leg with a poison dart. For real.

I think I finally figured out why it seems like Riggins and Tyra have been in high school for so long: They're following the little-known 'six year' rule, which states, among other things, that if you miss obscene amounts of school for little things like trips to Mexico or New York with a pal, or if you follow an abusive cowboy around the state to watch him gamble his earnings away, it's cool. Just hang around as long as it takes to obtain the required credits, and the fine folks at Dillion High will get you graduated. Because really, it's not like they would be going anywhere anyway.

Who else was disappointed that one of the interviewer's questions to Scholar Athlete Landry Clarke wasn't, "So, you murdered a guy last year, dumped him in a river and got off scot-free. How'd you pull that one off?"

I wish I could have seen the transporter that Saracen's mom and grandmother used to get to the stadium. Honestly, was it just me, or did they see Matt enter the game, get excited, decide to go, and show up before the ball was snapped? Sure, it could have been another play by the time they got there, but the announcer was still talking about how crazy it was that Saracen was in at receiver. Maybe they just live right across the street from the stadium. Of course, that would make Matt needing a ride to school pointless, but that has happened at various points in the series.

As great as this episode was, it was the first one in at least a month that didn't make Kayla cry at one point or another. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the Titan at Six Flags over Texas.

Current Reading:

2009-03-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Finally, a bit of good news out of the Texas Rangers organization:

Rangers unveil new alternate home and road jerseys

I hated them going back to the blue unis a few years back, and while I've grown to sorta like them, I'm very pleased that we'll be re-introduced to the red jersey and hat combo, at least on an aleternate basis.

I'm A Loser, Baby

2009-03-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to the 'So what have you done with your life lately?' department at si.com for this inspiring video:

My personal favorite is the bartender trick at 1:20. Also, I'm gonna go ahead and say that the cheerleader trick at 2:10 is a fake. It's not that it isn't cool, I just don't want to know what happened the first 568 times they tried before succeeding.

This Is A Free-Flowing Conversation

2009-03-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

A few random thoughts before I finally go to bed (Thank you four hour take home test!):

TO's gone. I've wanted this day to happen since the Philly debacle, but now that it's here I'm kinda sad.

Lost is kicking butt and taking names. Lovin it. However, what was the deal with Sawyer's beard in "LeFleur?" One scene it's a short, three-days growth scruff, the next its a horrendous shag with equally horrendous Just For Men coloring. Bad bad oversight by the producers. Did they shoot every other scene six months apart? Did they go back and fill in parts after originally wrapping concluded? I don't get it. It's almost as weird as how Hurley's hair was puffy and fro-like the first two season, but recently is a greasy, Michael Jackson circa 1988-like jheri curl. If you think I'm making these accusations up, head over to abc.com and check out the episode(s) in question.

I didn't watch last week's FNL until tonight, right before Lost. Once again, phenomenal episode. What really tripped me out, though, was seeing Herc in a DHARMA hatch ten seconds after seeing him get in a wheelchair fight with Street on Buddy Garrity's old patio. It took me a while to wrap my mind around what was happening there for a minute.

As much as I don't care about Texas Tech basketball (promise, I don't. For real) I really would have liked to be at the USA tonight for the butt-whipping of the Jayhawks. Again, thank you, take home test.

Speaking of things I don't like, I got to watch Oklahoma beat Tech last Saturday. While the game wasn't much to see, I did get to help sneak the Griffin brothers out of the arena, so they could avoid the respectable-size mob of Sooner fans gathering outside their locker room. Don't think I won't be talking people's ears off ten years from now about the 'conversation' I had with young Blake. Ed's note: Actual conversation...BG: "Are there a lot of people out there?" Twig, guarding door: "Yeah dude, there's a lot of them." HE'S TWO YEARS YOUNGER THAN MY BROTHER!!!!!

I watched HBO's "The Battle For Tobacco Road," a documentary about the Duke/UNC rivalry last week. Unbelievable. Highest of high recommendations for any college basketball fan.

It's March. Let the Madness begin.

I Hear A Knock At The Front Door, Don't Come In

2009-02-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

I've done quite a bit of reading over the past 13+ months, and have posted a couple reviews of the books I've read. The reviews have been mostly positive, but make no mistake, dear reader, not everything I've laid my eyes on have been stellar. Far from it. Here, in no particular order, are my least favorite readings. You've been warned.

The Lemur, Benjamin Black:

A great case of why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. I saw the guy with the suit and tie with cigarette smoke covering the guys face, and it caught me. I was hooked. Unfortunately, the book really didn't bring anything to the table. In fact, the only positive about the book was that it was obscenely short-less than 150 pages-that I was able to blow through it pretty quickly and pretend it never happened. One word: Wasteoftime

Chosen Soldier, Dick Couch:

Coming off the heels of the incredibly incredible Lone Survivor, I was on a Special Forces kick, wanting to read as much as I could about SEALS and Green Berets. This book isn't a particularly 'bad' book per se, but it just wasn't what I expected. It follows a class that is training to become Green Berets, which, while it has to be one of the most difficult tasks on the planet, is more of a thinking man's game, as opposed to the overwhelming physicality of SEAL training. It is very in-depth and gives a good view of what it takes to become a Beret, but if you're looking for something with a bit of war-time action, this isn't what you're looking for. Again, not terrible, just not what I expected. One word: Disappointing

Elite Squad, Various Authors:

Another Special Forces book that didn't live up to expectations. This one focuses on the Special Police Operations Battalion in Rio de Janeiro. It's actually a two-part book, and the first one isn't half bad, giving first-person accounts of experiences in the BOPE, including an unnerving amount of backward dealings inside the units. However, the book takes a bad turn in the second part, which tells a confusing, twisting story that may or may not be fictional, and ends so abruptly that it makes no sense at all. One word: Underwhelming.

If We Don't Take It, When Will We Make It?

2009-02-23T11:15:00.000-08:00

Got back to the real world last night after an enjoyable weekend in the Key City. Didn't actually attend Sing Song, mainly just went to see old pals, which was overall a success, although I didn't run into a few key humans (Looking at you, Reeves, Prosso & Scott). I guess that's what I get for not going to Moody on Saturday night.

While I did miss out on a seventh GSP victory this decade, I did get to watch the UT-UTNorman game Saturday night, and obviously, I was estatic. Keep your 'but Griffin didn't play the second half' arguments to yourself: Saturday night was as much of a must-win as you can get, coming off four losses in six games, and when the #2 team in the nation who happens to be your biggest rival visits your house, it's a big win regardless of who is and isn't on the court. With Willie Warren blowing up like he did (phenomenal performance, even if he is a traitor) I'm honestly not sure what the outcome would have been if Blake had been in the game. If he were in, it's reasonable that Warren wouldn't have had to carry the load like he did, the game would have had a slower pace, and I still believe Texas could have pulled it out. Either way, watching the Warren/Abrams duel in the second half was worth missing the Men in Tights.

In FNL news, JD's dad really, really, really annoys me. The locker room scene after the Westerby win, besides being unrealistic-come on, Taylor, keep that dude out of the locker room, please-was sickening and makes me hope that somehow the Taylors can find out a way to legally adopt JD and keep him away from Marv Marinovich II. Probably the biggest thing I'm digging about this season is how they've been ending every episode with a chill-bump scene. From the Coach Taylor/Smash raquetball game, to the Coach/Smash pep talk, to this weeks Street-Sings-to-His-Baby-as-his-House-Flipping-Partners-Silently-Watch-and-Appreciate (sorry, couldn't think of an easier explination), FNL is absolutely bringing it when it comes to wrapping up the show. Love it.

Lastly, ACU alum Johnny Knox is making noise at the NFL Combine in Indy. He ran the third-fastest time in the 40, a halfway decent 4.34, so be on the lookout for him, BScott (no relation) and Billy Malone in April and beyond.

Over and out.

Disappointing Revelation

2009-02-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

I can get pretty nostalgic when looking forward to a weekend of catching up with old friends. Since I'll be spending this weekend in Abilene (Sing Song, duh) doing just that, I've been thinking back to the good ole days at ACU and all the fun times I had there. However, last night a disturbing thought entered my mind whilst reminiscing my time in Abilene. It went something like this:

'Golly, I sure enjoyed college. Sing Song, Intramurals, Pledging, etc etc...Heck, even Welcome Week was fun. How many years has it been since I did that? Lets see, that was the fall of 2002, it's now 2009...wow. Six and a half years? Man, it's really been a while since I started college. Six and a half years...Holy crapola. ITS BEEN A QUARTER OF MY LIFETIME SINCE I STARTED COLLEGE!?!' Yikes, folks. That hit me hard. I felt like the kid from the video last week. Is this real life? Whaaattt'ss haapeningg? AAARRRRGGHHHH. Oh well, what can you do, ya know? Keep on livin...

On a lighter note, here's a great compilation/montage of 'The Office' Funny stuff, enjoy.

Pitchers And Catchers, Due To Report

2009-02-15T12:20:00.001-08:00

Well, we've past the Valentine's Day landmark, meaning that Spring Training is about to begin! Woo-Hoo! In attempt to get all you tens of Ranger fans fired up for the 2009 season, read this article from si.com. I will now string myself upside down by my toenails.

In related Texas sporting news, Kevin Durant the absolute truth, FNL continues to impress (even though Saracen is sort of a crybaby. Man up, dude), and I hate UT's new Field Turf.

Dr. Lou

2009-02-08T06:15:00.000-08:00

In lew (loo, lou?) of an FNL recap this week, I'll just post this, which sums up the key storyline of the episode.

On this same note, how awesome was Coach Taylor this episode? The pep talk he gave Smash at the tryout literally gave me chills, as did the nice moment on the porch with Smash before he took off. Another great episode, what else can I say?

Current Reading:

Previous Reading:

If You Catch Me At The Border, I've Got Visas In My Name

2009-02-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

Alright, so I'm probably the 10,068th person/website/blog to post this, but in case you haven't seen it on Deadspin, Slowly Going Bald, YouTube, or SI already, here it is...the Laughing Gas Kid:

"Is this real life?" Highest of 'high' comedy.

Finally, it seems as though JAT and Running Down A Dream favorite, Jeff Pearlman, has a few grievances he'd like to air, now that he's not employed by the World Wide Leader.

Horns and Panthers

2009-02-01T11:43:00.000-08:00

I promised a few college basketball thoughts last time, so even though the Horns really let me down yesterday and I don't want to talk too much about it, here it goes:

Uggghh. Fortunately for me, I was busy and missed all of the first half, and didn't tune in until there were nine minutes remaining in regulation, with Texas down 53-40. Needless to say, I was shocked at the deficit, since the Horns have been playing much better since the beatdown they got in Norman a few weeks ago. After falling down by as much as 17, UT fought back to tie the game late and go into overtime.

At this point, I thought they had it. The Horns played the last five minutes of regulation with extremely high intensity and did almost everything right in their frantic run to close the gap, and I thought this would carry over to the extra session.

Even though KState went up early, I thought UT had a shot until they missed the rebound with 11 seconds left after KState missed two free-throws. The Horns fouled the right guy, he predictably missed both freebies, but instead of getting the rebound and having the last possession down two points, Conner Atchley decided not to secure the ball, KState did, and subsequently made one of two free throws to essentially seal the game. While Texas did get the ball back, KState smartly fouled, (you listening, Calapari?) sending Dogus Balbay to the line where he made the first, but didn't hit rim on his intentional miss which gave the ball to the Cats, and that was pretty much all she wrote. In a game where Texas played so badly for the first 2/3 of the game, it's hard to blame on play or player for the loss, but missed free-throws in OT, not securing rebounds, and a killer three-pointer from KState (from about 30 feet with the shot clock running down, no less) won't win you close games.

What's the deal with UT not being able to beat Kansas State? Two years in a row in football, and the past two times they've come to the Drum, the Cats have won. In fact, the last time the Horns lost there was Super Bowl weekend, 2007 to...you guessed it, the Kansas State Wildcats. Someone needs to shuffle the schedule a little bit.

Alright, now for the FNL recap of the week. As always, it was another great episode, with many future storylines developing. First of all, glad Smash decided to go to college-even if it is aTm-and not take the deal to become a store manager at Alamo Freeze. This actually could go under the 'unrealistic' list, if only because many people I know in his situation (former HS star, tons of scholarship offers, injury, loss of scholarship and being reduced to walking on) probably would have taken the job offer (hey, I got a company car!) and just went on with life. However, he did what will best suit him for the long-run, even if he isn't able to earn a scholarship, so that was nice to see for Smash.

I hate Team Buddy McCoy. Obviously, that's what the show wants from it's viewers, but let me tell ya, it's working. If Coach Taylor had punched out Buddy or Joe (is it Joe? I forgot) McCoy in the pool room, no one would have blamed him, and Coach is a better man than I am for walking away. I am looking forward to the where this storyline goes in the future, though. Will Coach stick with Saracen, even though he doesn't secure the ball on the goal-line on the game-winning play? Will he give in to the booster's demands to put in the freshman phenom? Will he flip the bird to the (extremely unreasonable) Dillon faithful and leave for another high school next year, or even follow one of his players-most likely Smash or Riggins-to college? I don't know the answer to any of these, but you can bet I'll stick around to find out.

A few quick things to hit on, and I'll be done. What happened to Street? He wasn't my favorite character, and his story line wasn't exactly 'neat' or 'fun to watch' even, but still, where'd he go? Did I miss something or what, because if I'm not mistaken, he was in most episodes last year, and even had a few that centered around him, but this year it's like he fell of the face of the earth. Also, fans of Dillon: y'all suck. What makes you think it's acceptable to put For Sale signs in the front yard of a coach who currently has a winning record (2-1, with two convincing wins and one last-second loss)? Is it because he won't play a 15 year old freshman at quarterback, even though he has a three-year starter who, lest we forget, won the state championship as a sophomore? Call me crazy, but I'm thinking Coach Taylor knows a little more about how to win football games than the entire Dillon population combined. Just saying, chill and let the Wonder Boy take over next year. Something tells me that won't happen; not on this show, not this season.

Eyes and Hearts Continued

2009-01-27T09:17:00.001-08:00

Not surprisingly, Saturday's Friday Night Lights post was a success, generating interested comments and emails. So, in the spirit of FNL, here are continuing thoughts and comments from the show. As always, feel free to continue discussion in the comments section. I need all the diversion I can get from school.

An email from my dad:

Lance:

Great article on the show! Here's my most unrealistic script: The playoff game in the cow pasture!!! You betcha, this happens all the time in Texas High School football - the coaches always agree to it, and the players all go out in their spare time and build it, right?????

Great point, Dad. I considered putting this in the original post, but forgot about it. The Cow Pasture game has to be one of the biggest misses in the series. Yes, every male in America would love the chance to put on pads and play a pick-up game with their buddies in a muddy, rain-soaked field, but come on. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think this game was the state semifinals (maybe quarterfinals). We're supposed to believe that two teams played in a pasture that was turned into a 'football stadium' the week before the game? Not only that, but the stadium was put together by the players that competed in the game, when they should have been studying film and prepping for the state semis. In the real world, where most of us live, the Texas state semi-finals-and many other rounds for that matter-are played in little arenas you may have heard of before-Texas Stadium, Mammoth Reliant Stadium, DKR, Kyle Field, Floyd Casey, the Alamodome-not Farmer Joe's Cow Pasture outside Dillon, Texas. I am currently in a class that deals with sport facilities and what it takes to run a safe, effective, and legal, sporting event. I am by no means an expert in the area, but something tells me that a football stadium put up in less than a week by 16-18 year olds in a cow pasture may not pass pesky little things like 'codes,' 'laws,' and 'guidelines.' Call me crazy, I don't know.

After the last post, Joey left a comment about the soundtrack to FNL. The intro song is definitely a great one, so much so that I actually watch the opening credits, instead of fast-forwarding like I do every other show I DVR. I've always assumed that Explosions in the Sky did the intro song, as the did most (all?) of the soundtrack to the FNL movie. However, I read somewhere that the intro song to the TV show is not done by Explosions, even though it sounds very similar to them. I don't remember the name of the band that does the intro song, so I have no idea where to find it to download, but if anyone knows, Joseph and myself would appreciate it. While we're on the topic, the music is another fantastic thing about the show. It is always great, and plays an important part in the telling of the story. If anyone cares, I also think Lost and Scrubs do a great job of using music-however subtly-to enhance the story telling of their respective shows.

That'll be it for now, I'll post some thoughts this weekend about the next episode, as well as a few college basketball thoughts. In the meantime, go on over to Cafe Express and check out their line of Dillon Football gear. I'm still hoping to find the gray T-shirt Saracen had on from this past episode, that thing was cool. Until next time.....

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts

2009-01-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

I just got finished watching the second episode of the third season of Friday Night Lights, and so far, this season is shaping up to be the best of the three, and that's saying a LOT. Season one was fantastic, as was the second half of season two (a little bit of a rough start, but it got corrected, so it's cool) but this season could very well top them both.

One of the many things I love about FNL is how realistic it is. Pretty much anyone who grew up in Texas or any small town in America, can relate to the goings-on of the characters in Dillon, Texas. I'm not the first to say this, but there isn't a more authentic TV couple than Eric and Tammy Taylor. While there are many 'main' characters, those two carry the show, and their interactions are the most sincere of any television husband and wife that I can remember.

However, as realistic as the show can be, as with any TV program, it can be a bit far-fetched and unreasonable from time to time.

I wish I started this list from the first episode because I'm sure I'll forget some key moments, but like Mark McGwire would say, I'm not here to talk about the past. So here we go, some of the more unrealistic moments in the two-plus seasons of Friday Night Lights:

The VooDoo plot line always bugged me. We're really supposed to believe that after Hurricane Katrina displaced the VooDoo family, they just posted up in a hotel room as coaching staff after coaching staff came to bribe the family so they could receive his football services? And that the UIL was fine with it? (until, of course, he decided to be a Panther) And that, two seconds after leaving Dillon he went to another high school, led them to the state championship and no one batted an eye?

All of Dillon's last-second victories. One, maybe two are realistic over the course of a season, but it seemed like the Panther's had 10 heart-stopping finishes. The one that really got me was when Dillon played in Smash's former hometown. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the score was 6-2 with less than ten seconds remaining, and Dillon was pinned inside their own five. This time, instead of some crazy hail-mary, triple lateral finish, Dillon won with...get this...a counter play off left tackle. Seriously. What team, when down by four with ten seconds and ninety-something yards to go, gives it to the running back, basically up the middle? Of course Smash, who had been bottled up until that point, breaks a few tackles and scores as time expires. Un-likely. (Ed's note: the wild finishes and football scenes in general have been dramatically toned down in seasons two and three, so if that's what is keeping you from watching, don't-it gets better.)

The thing that Landry does at the beginning of season two. I won't mention it for those who haven't seen it, but there was exactly zero reason to go down that road. Tons of bloggers and websites have torn this storyline to shreds already, but it bears repeating-totally stupid and unnecessary.

Santiago. Great character, lots of potential story lines, but...where did he go? What happened to him? Did I miss something? But what really bugged me about the show's treatment of him was this: As a high school linebacker, why didn't his pants have pads, it's not like he's an NFL receiver, and why was his chin-stap upside down? Makes no sense to me, just a bad oversight by the producers/directors.

This one is a bit nit-picky, but Coach Taylor wears his state championship ring to bed. Who does that?

In what universe is every mom-or female over the age of 30-as attractive as they are in Dillon, TX? I know it's a TV show so they have to sex it up a little, but come on, it's getting ridiculous. I'm half-expecting Carmen Electra to guest star for a few episodes as Coach Taylor's mom.

Speaking of good-looking mom's, what's the deal with Tammy's wardrobe? Again, it is a TV show, but what principal can get away with dressing like that? Oh yeah, one who leads a school who elects a student-body president who campaigns with her sister's stripper friends and makes speeches about getting laid at prom. Un-likely.

Smash getting his scholly from TMU taken away because of one little dust-up at the movie theater. In the real world, big-time colleges sign guys with multiple arrests and pending court dates. A tussle at the movies would do nothing except raise Smash's profile in real life.

Street and Riggins going to Mexico on a whim-with $10,000 cash. A funny episode, yes, but what varsity super-star gets away with going South of the border without telling anyone, drinks away the week, then gets back on the team shortly thereafter?

Speaking of Riggins, how old are we supposed to believe he really is? In the first season, he's best friends with Street, who is a senior, and is getting ready to sign with a big university and go on to do great things in football. OK, fine, so Riggs must be a senior too, right? Well, apparently not, as he's back in season two, and goes on the aforementioned Mexico trip. Well, surely he's a senior then, no 16 year old would do that? Again, apparently not, as he shows up for season three, this time being a senior without question, as the show finally makes it known how old he is. This season isn't the one that bothers me, but going back to season one, he's supposed to be a sophomore back then? I'm just not buying it, what with him being best friends with the superstar senior QB, drinking his life away, hooking up with his older neighbor, being the envy of every girl at Dillon High, and generally doing things that many males in this country wait until they're, I don't know, 20 to do. However, props to the show's creators for not making him a senior in season one, because, outside of the Taylor's, he carries the show, has the most gripping story lines, and is the most relate able character. Without Riggins, FNL suffers tremendously, even if he is a sixth-year senior.

That's all I can think of now, I'll update the list as this season progresses, and as I remember past unlikeliness. If you're a fan of the show and can think of things I forgot, feel free to add them in the comments section, and I'll reward you with...recognition that you thought of something I left out. Deal? Great.

Also, LOST. Wow.

One More Day

2009-01-15T11:39:00.000-08:00

Who knows what tomorrow is? Friday. Who knows what tomorrow night is? Friday Night. That's right, folks, only one more day until the season three premiere of Friday Night Lights on NBC. To keep you on the edge of your seat, here are a few links to hold you over.

Bill Simmons' interview with Peter Berg, director of FNL.

Entertainment Weekly's review of episode one from season three.

While I'm not a huge fan of the X-Men/Comic Book/Fantasy genre, I'm geeked about this movie. It doesn't have a lot to do with FNL, but if you look closely you'll see that Riggins is Gambit. Awesome.

Final Thoughts for College Football

2009-01-07T10:13:00.001-08:00

Alright, so it's a little late, but some final thoughts on the Bowl Season, up to this point:

I'm very, very glad Texas woke up and decided to play the second half Monday night. I was not looking forward to the 'I told you so, you buch of no good cry-babies' articles if the Horns lost to Ohio State.

As for the Big XII, not a great showing overall from the upper-echilon. Lackluster performances from Texas and Mizzou, and losses by Okie State and Tech.

How great was it to see Tech get it handed to them though? Seriously, they're nowhere near the same team when playing away from Lubbock.

So remind me again why Oklahoma should be rewarded so much for beating Cincinatti? That was an impressive OOC victory for the Sooners? Really? Call me crazy, but at this point, UT's victory over Arkansas is considerably more impressive than OU's win over Cincy (Arkie beat LSU, who killed Ga Tech, who embarrassed UGA, etc) They suck.

I was listening to Dan Wetzel, a Yahoo! Sports writer on Houston sports radio yesterday, and he had a great idea: instead of having BCS bowl games in cavernous, tired NFL stadiums that have no atmosphere, (see: Phoenix Stadium and Superdome, The) why not play them in college stadiums? Wetzel argued that the games should be played in one of the participants home stadiums, but that could give the home team an unfair advantage in what should be a neutral site game. Expanding on Wetzel's idea, I'd love to see BCS games be played at college stadiums of teams that aren't playing in a BCS game. Imagine how sweet the Fiesta Bowl would have been if the game took place at Neyland Stadium, or between the hedges in Athens, GA. Maybe I'm missing something obvious, but I think that would really give the BCS a much-needed boost in atmosphere and add some of the pagentry that makes college football so special in the first place.

That'll do it for now, just remeber kids: When Oklahoma wins, everyone loses.

Who Put Sour Grapes in The Bottle?

2009-01-06T14:14:00.000-08:00

I realize that things have been pretty slow around here lately, but I promise a bowl recap soon, as well as a very belated best/worst of 2008 column in the near future.

In the meantime, here's a funny half-minute video of a kid's reaction to the ending of last night's Fiesta Bowl. Just a lovely child.

Also, what I'm reading now:

The Year of Living Biblically, by AJ Jacobs. I worried that this book, written by an agnostic Jew from New York, would be sarcastic and sacreligious, but it's an extremely honest, thoughtful look at religion from an outsiders view. I'm 100 pages in, and highly recommend it.

Pass The Egg-Nog, Please

2008-12-19T18:55:00.000-08:00

Tis the Season, indeed. A time to laugh, love and share with friends and family, yada, yada, yada. While I'm very excited to see my relatives, and wouldn't trade any of them (seriously) for anything, I do think the holidays would be considerably funnier if this guy was my crazy uncle/nephew/brother-in-law.

Note: Semi-offensive language will ensue if user presses 'play'

Winter Links

2008-12-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

Well the weather here in Lubbock is indeed frightful, as the first snowstorm/flurry is upon us. In honor of Old Man Winter, I bring you a fresh batch of links that will kill a few minutes if you're stuck inside a house or apartment this winter.

First off, how NOT to handle the winter weather:

I came across this blog a few months ago, check in ever-so-often, and may have even linked it here a while ago. I've laughed out loud numerous times at the tounge-in-cheek humor of Stuff White People Like, because it's so spot on with, well, stuff white people like. I fall into many categories, (Pea Coats, graduate school, thrift-store clothing, promising to learn a new language) and if you're white, you probably do too.

As always, check out Deadspin for up to the second sarcasm in the sporting news world.

It'll be a few more months before season 3 of Friday Night Lights airs on NBC (It's on DirecTV for now) but here's episode one of season three for all who are avid followers of the show.

Lastly, here's a short preview for season five and recap/music video for LOST. Gave me chills watching it. Can't wait for the new season. Six weeks and counting...

Play Like A Champion Today

2008-12-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

Like most people, I was shocked when Notre Dame announced that Chaz Weis would return next year to lead 'College Football in America U.' It seems to me like Golden-Domer apologists have been saying for 2-3 years that once he gets his own recruits in the system, they'll take off and be a perennial contender, but for whatever reason, it hasn't happened. For my money, it's because he can't coach and ND has been overrated for 15 years now, but what do I know?

Anyway, for all my dislike for Notre Dame, there is one redeeming quality that any football fan must respect.

Intramural Takle Football!!

If I'm not mistaken, ACU toyed with this idea for about five minutes in November of 2002. I think it was the overwhelming odds of one horrific injury after another that persuaded the higher-ups not to go through with it.

On the bright side, if we did have intramural takle football, Austin Henley couldn't have falsely called Shane Spencer down in the Rec League playoffs on a crucial two-point conversion, costing this guy (points thumbs toward himself) a shot at the 2004 championship. And no, I'm not still bitter, Austin. I'm just sayin.

I Feel It Come Alive When I See Your Ghost

2008-11-30T21:27:00.000-08:00

Wow, November started and ended on a really sour note, if you're a Texas Longhorn fan. I found out about oklahoma's jump when Kayla and I stopped in Abilene for a meal at Chili's (Where small business gets done) with Kayla's cousin and her husband. I wasn't really surprised by the jump, since 0u did win by twenty points, and UT had a very small lead in the B(c)S polls beforehand anyway, but after getting home and reading this article, I've officially gone back to serious suicide watch territory. It seems that Texas actually increased their lead in the human polls, but got caught by the computers because of oklahmoma's big win on the road. What gets me about this is two-fold. One, had zero-u not gotten their late TD (with all the starters in, no less. Classy Stoops) and their tip-drill 'look what I found' TD by their tight end in the third quarter (I think) the margin of victory may not have been enough to pass UT in the computers. Second, the tie-breaker for the Big XII is obviously out of whack, but after reading the article it seems that the SEC has the three-way tiebreaker figured out. I won't ruin it for you, but if the Big XII had it right, on the field performance would mean something, and yes, Texas would be going to Kansas City next week. Read it and weep Longhorn fans.
Also, this marks the second time in three years that Texas beat both teams that ended up playing in the conference championship game. Awesome.

Here's To My Alma Mater True

2008-11-22T14:33:00.000-08:00

UPDATE @ 12:53 pm Monday, November 24, 2008-This game has obviously garnerned a lot of national attention, landing ACU at #4 on Sportcenter's Top 10 plays, now the good folks at Deadspin have gotten into the act.

161 points. 1,500+ yards of total offense. 323 yards receiving BY ONE PLAYER. 14.5 yards per play. 13.8 yards per rush. 2 defensive coordinators looking for new jobs (maybe). All in a days work in the Division II playoffs. Holla.

Just Finished Reading:

Current Reading:

This Is My Final Decision, Maybe

2008-11-20T14:06:00.000-08:00

Ever since it was discussed in Monday's comments section, I've been thinking about who to cheer for in Saturdays Tech/Oklahoma match up. While I'm not crazy about my choice, I think I've come to a conclusion.

Even though Texas' only shot at the Big XII game comes from winning the three-way tiebreaker* (unless Tech falls to 0u AND Baylor, but really) I've gotta go for Tech as the lesser of two evils and hope they rep the State well in KC and Miami. What really gets me hoping that Tech pulls it out this weekend is the fact that I really can't stand to see Oklahoma win the conference again, after losing to UT.

There is a very real possibility that Texas will finish the regular season 11-1, beat Oklahoma, be co-champs of the South, AND WATCH OKLAHOMA PLAY FOR THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP. Seriously. Let that last sentence sink in for a second. In December of 2004, if you told me that within the next four years Texas will win 11 regular season games, be ranked number one for three weeks, beat Oklahoma in a game where the Sooners had better 'on-paper' talent, but 0u would be the ones playing for the national championship, I couldn't have found a high enough cliff to jump off of.

Fortunately for me, 2005 happened and my suicide watch meter went from 'potentially realistic' to 'Whatever, man UT's the Champs!' However, the past two years frustrations, followed up with this seasons awesomeness have officially put me back on edge as far as competing for conference and national championships go.

To beat Oklahoma and still not even get a shot at the conference championship is a brutal, empty feeling for Longhorn fans. Remember, it was just 2006 that UT won the RRR and had a one game lead over 0u (two games really, considering the tie-breaker) and the Horns squandered their conference championship hopes with the Colt Got Injured Game (KSU) followed up by a no-show against aTm.

If, by some act of BCS computer grace, UT could win the tie-breaker with Oklahoma, then so be it, but since that's looking like an unlikely scenario, Wreck 'Em Tech, and we'll see where we go from there.

*This is, of course, assuming that UT beats the deuce out of the ags next week. If they crap the bed like they did the past few years, however, all bets are off and Tech or 0u would deserve it more anyway. And yes, I know what happens when I a-s-s-u-m-e.

They Can Go For 2 Now, Also

2008-11-17T17:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening, I got a call from my old roomate, Garrett. He asked, "I heard a game today ended in a tie. How does that happen?" Well, Garrett is an Oklahoma Sooner fan, so he is forgiven for not knowing basic football rules.
Donovan McNabb, however, is a 10-year NFL veteran, and not forgiven:

What is even more amazing is that at least three of his teammates didn't know a game could end in a tie, according to espn.com. Yikes

Longhorn Basketball 2009, And Other Stuffs

2008-11-13T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's a big weekend in the LBK, as I'll be attending my first Gay wedding Saturday, and have a lot of peeps coming in for it. I do, however have a couple articles to link y'all up to. The first should get any Texas Longhorn basketball fan (I'm looking at you, Halbert) extremely fired up for the 2009-10 basketball season-major props to Rick Barnes and his recruting prowess. The second is a mailbag from one of my favorite writers, SI.com's Stewart Mandel. He's great at what he does, but his answer to the first question in the column is a bit disconcerting if you love UT football.

A preview of UT basketball next year.

Mandel breaks it down.

I Know, I Was There

2008-11-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

This weekend, the parents came into town to hang out with me and Kayla. It was a great time seeing them, and on Saturday night, my dad and I went to Jones AT&T, the sight of two of the most dissapointing losses I have ever experienced as a fan- the 2002 UT/Tech game and the 2008 matchup. And no, I still don't want to talk about it.

Anyway, we came to the game hoping that Oklahoma State would come in and upset the Raiders, giving UT a shot if Tech also falls to Oklahoma in two weeks. Didn't happen. Not even close. For those of you who missed the game, don't worry, you didn't miss much. Tech at this point looks pretty unstoppable on offense, and the D was o force all game as well. It remains to be seen if they can keep it up on the road in Norman, but after witnessing how good Tech looked on Saturday, I wouldn't be shocked if they pull it out.

The worst part of all of this is knowing how close Texas came to winning last weekend against a team that is very, very good. Ahhh, the joys of being a sports fan.

GameDay, Part Deux

2008-11-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

As promised yesterday, here are a few pics of my College GameDay experience:

6:45 am: some of the hundreds of students who camped out to be first in line

Not sure what these guys are, but the one in the middle was the bell-ringer that was on TV like 10 times during the game.

Bob Knight takes the set

Knight, Fowler, Corso, Herbstreit

All us volunteers

It Was The Best of Times, It Was The Worst of Times

2008-11-02T10:33:00.001-08:00

November has already been quite the roller-coaster. As I mentioned a few days ago, I got to help with ESPN College GameDay, which was here in Lubbock yesterday morning. I must say, it was awesome! If the GameDay crew ever comes to your town, or anywhere near, I highly suggest making the trip, you will not be disappointed. I could write 2-3 pages on the things we did, but you'd be bored reading it all, so I'll just knock out a few of the highlights:

I got to the set at about 6:45 am, 2+ hours before they went on TV, and there was a line of literally thousands of students and fans waiting in a line whose end couldn't be seen. You know you're a hardcore fan to sleep in a sleeping bag on a sidewalk in hopes of getting on TV for maybe 3 seconds. Either that, or you're homeless.

Wearing my Graham Steers hat. It's blue, but has the UT logo on it. (they're the Steers, fyi) That, along with the word 'Graham' under it really tripped some of the fans out. Like, who are you rooting for, volunteer?

Parlaying said hat into a 10 second conversation with Chris Fowler. He was just as confused as many sleep-deprived Tech students.

Watching the girls that were on the volunteer team get googley-eyed when Kirk "Make-up often?" Herbstreit strolled past us on his way to the set.

Seriously, Herby had a TON of makeup on. I know it's part of the gig, but really man, come on.

Bobby Knight. He may be a wretched human being, but he has quite the presence and is really funny. He's also a lot taller and thinner than I pictured.

Figuring out that the short beefy guy in a couple of my classes was actually on the cheerleading squad. I was really beginning to wonder why he came to class 95% of the time in black and red windsuits. Now it all makes sense.

Speaking of the cheerleading team, now I know why these dudes can throw the girls around like they don't weigh a thing. They don't weigh a thing! Seriously, they make the Chinese gymnastics team look like grown-ups.

Explaining to everyone why the set, and pretty much everything else out there, was orange. No, ESPN isn't biased toward UT, the show is just sponsored by the Home Depot (You can do it, we can help) and their logo is-you guessed it, orange.

After the show was over and all the fans were gone, we were taking all of the aforementioned orange Home Depot signs down, when Bobby Knight, and Lee Corso walked out of the bus, directly towards me. Knight, who is about 10 inches taller than Lee, had his arm around Lee and said, "My wife wanted me to tell you just how much she thinks of you. She thinks you're a fantastic guy, Lee, and I really do too. We both think think you are a great guy." Aww, that's sweet. Well, they were passing directly by me when Knight finished that sentiment. Really, they were two feet away from me, tops. I knew I should play it cool and act like it was no big deal that two guys I've watched on TV since I was 9 were within high-fiving distance, but I couldn't resist. I said, "He's right, Lee, you really are great." What happened, you ask? They kept right on walking, as if I didn't exist. Probably for the best anyway, since I had absolutely nothing of consequence to say to either of them, but still, a "Hey kid" wouldn't have killed them. In any case, about ten seconds after that, a group of three girls came up to the pair on the sidewalk and break out the "Oh my gosh, Coach Knight, I...I...I just love you. Is it okay if, umm, we take a picture with you?" And of course, Knight and Corso were more than happy to stop their conversation with one another and pose for the pretty gals. Whatever.

I should be getting a few pictures of yesterday emailed to me in the future, and as soon as I do, I'll post them so you can all be jealous of me.

As for the game? Well you saw it, and honestly, I'm just now starting to not want to jump off a cliff, so if you'll forgive me, I won't discuss what happened on this here blog. Just know that, yes, I felt physically ill, yes, I'm glad I made the last second decision not to go, no, the extra hour of sleep last night didn't help and no, I don't think it's cool that I'm going to the school that maybe, just maybe will go to the national championship game. If you do want great analysis of what went so wrong, yet almost so right, please check out Burnt Orange Nation. As always, PB and the boys do a great job of giving credit-as well as criticism-where it's due, and help us hurtin Horns keep things in perspective.

On the bight side, I filled my car up this morning for less than $35 dollars, which is nice.

I'm Coming To Your City

2008-10-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've been waiting with baited breath since yesterday, when it was announced that 'a lot is going on here,' so without further adeiu, my big news of the week: As you know, ESPN's College Gameday Presented by the Home Depot, is covering this weekend's matchup between Texas and Texas Tech, and yours truly (Twig, not Jig) will be on hand helping Chris, Kirk, and Lee with the presentation of Gameday, Live from Lubbock, TX.

Don't DVR the show in hopes of seeing me, I'll be the guy behind the scenes doing the junk work no one else wants to do, but still...getting the chance to see Kirk Herbstriet in person? Wow, he's sooo dreamy. And I really can't wait to see Corso's head get literally knocked off if he puts a Bevo head on at the end of the show. Good times in West Texas.

You Can Have Whatever You Like

2008-10-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

Not a lot going on around here-that's not true, there really is a lot happening, and you can expect an update in the next 24 hours or so-but in the meantime I'll post a few links I found from si.com. It seem's that rapper T.I. "You can have whatever you like" is getting a lot of play in the YouTube parody department. Here are two great ones:

My favorite part of this clip is the chunky white kid on the back right. I can picture his parents in the crowd going, "This is NOT why we sent our son to private school!"

Check Ya Later

2008-10-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

Due to an obscene amount of work at school this week (who knew, you have to study in grad school?) I won't be posting for a little while, in case you were wondering. In the meantime, Hook em Horns, Go Cowboys, and Come On Christmas break!

We're Number One?

2008-10-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Obviously, I'm thrilled with the results of Saturday's Red River Rivalry, even though the Cowboys did their part to dampen my spirits yesterday. The game was exciting, and each team played well, which is different from most of the RRR's from this decade.

There is one thing that I just can't seem to wrap my mind around, and it's really thrown me for a loop. Texas is ranked number one? In the country? In football? Don't get me wrong, I'm happy with how they've played, and beating your rival, who just happend to be number one at the time, is always cause for celebration. However, coming into this season, I had no expectations for this team. The young defense, the new coaches, inexperienced skill players, and zero running game had me, and many other Longhorn fans looking forward to 2009 as the year that things came together and they made a run at the title. I'm still not sure that they will win any title, but the fact that they're where they are right now quite honestly blows my mind.

This is the first time UT has been ranked number one in the regular season since I was mere months old, so needless to say, I don't really know how to react. Granted, when three of the four teams in front of Texas lost on Saturday, they sorta had to jump to the top, especially since the other team-Alabama-was idle. So call it what you want: A fluke, a top ranking by default, or whatever, the fact remains-I have NO idea what will happen the rest of the season, but I'm tickled to death that the rest of the season matters for the 2008 Texas Longhorns.

Now the challenge poses itself for the Horns-how do you perform when you're supposed to win? Remember, coming into this season, no one was really talking about them as a serious conference or national championship contender. I think they used some of that 'disrespect' as fuel to go out and show the nation that they are a legit team that must be taken seriously. Now that they have a big victory and people are starting to pay attention, how will they respond? If they are like any of the 2000-2003 Texas Lonhorns, they will lose at least one big game this year that may cost them a championship, bowl positioning, etc, and be labled as soft and overrated. However, if they keep the "everybody doubts us" mentality, they may go on to great things and make this an extremely memorable year. You know what my hopes are for them, I just know that I won't ever make another prediction about this team again. Hook 'Em.

So When I'm Dead And I'm Gone, All I Ask Is You To Cry

2008-10-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

First off, I've got a $700B check with your name on it if you know the name of the band and song the title is taken from.

On to more important stuff...I'm way too nervous/psyched/on edge for the game* this weekend that I don't believe I'll be doing too much blogging this week. On top of that, I'm going with a group of friends to the lake, so nedless to say, I'm a bit hyped.

For this week's links, browse on over to http://www.burntorangenation.com/. My thoughts/feelings/hopes and dreams can all pretty much be found there. Great, glad we got that covered.

Also, as I type, my good friend B Maenius is at the Washington Wizards/Dallas Mavericks pre-season game. Who goes to an NBA pre-season game, you ask? This guy and this girl. And yes, they're sitting RIGHT NEXT TO BRANDON!! Feel free to send him a text with many many inapropriate words and phrases. Thanks.

*If you don't know what "game" I'm talking about, we're breaking up. Right now. I mean it.

FNL And Other Fun Stuff

2008-10-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

It's the start of the new season for many television shows, and as such, I feel it's my duty to plug Friday Night Lights. Due to bad ratings (but honesly, who's gonna watch a show that airs at 9pm on Fridays?) the season will first air on DirecTV, and come to NBC in February. Regardless, if you have't watched any of it, rent the first two seasons, or watch them online at nbc.com, get ready for season three in February, and thank me later. In order to whet your appetite, here's the FNL Site. Be sure to check the espisodes, as well as the interviews with some of the actors as they show their favorite Austin spots. My favorite is the one where Tim Riggins and Lyla Garrity go to the Hula Hut, which is where Kayla and I ate last year, while Bethany went out on a boat and lost Kayla's glasses. Fun memories.

Other things to read or watch if you don't have class until 4:30:

For those of you who are members of Facebook, read and enjoy this wildly entertaining list of the most annoying people on Facebook.

Say what you want about Penn State-I'm not crazy about them, either-but scroll to the bottom of this page, and watch the video from their 'white-out' game this past Saturday. Great stuff, and it's hard not to get pumped up for that. Also, the video after the PSU one is pretty funny, too.

Ali G, what else can you say? Hilarious:

"No disrespect, but you's Canadian, so you don't even speak English, so shout out."

(Update at 3:08pm)
Came across 'lil Wayne's blog on espn.com. Fantastic. My favorite part may be the last line, where it states that "Lil Wayne is a commercially successful rap artist and major sports fan." I don't know why, that just made me smile.

Crazy Days Are Here To Stay

2008-09-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Per my agreement with blogspot.com, I, Twig (who else would it be though, really?) am contractually obliged to write my thoughts on college football any day that three top-10 teams lose, especially when the number one team in the nation lost only three days before. Here we go...

I was as shocked as anyone with the outcome of Thursday's upset in Corvallis, Oregon. I thought that USC would walk through their conference schedule with little to no problem, and that Oregon State wouldn't have a shot in this one. Ooops. However, only three days after their loss, USC has to be pleased with the outcome of the Wisconsin, Florida, and Georgia games today. Even with one loss, the Trojans aren't out of the picture yet, because IF they run the rest of their schedule, they could very well find themselves in position to play for the BCS Championship.

I guess Urban Meyer's "Best player of the era" quote can officially be put to rest. When was the last time the best college football player of any era lost to Ole Miss AT HOME? Speaking of the upset by Ole Miss, I'm glad to see Jevan Snead have success after getting beat out for the QB job at Texas two years ago. Seems like things are looking alright for both him and Colt at this point.

Did it take me two and a half paragraphs to mention UT? Wow, I must be coming down with something, I'll have to get that checked out. Anyway, today's victory made me extremely happy, if for no other reason than I don't have to hear it all year from my Uncle Jim, a Jonesboro resident and fan of the Hogs/SEC in general. (Quick side note: two days ago, Jim emailed me predicting a 52-13 victory by the Horns today. I thought that was a bit steep, but it turns out he was pretty close, one more field goal by ArKansas, and he'd have been dead on. Stay tuned for more disturbingly accurate predictions from Jimbo.)

Back to UT: I'm obviously pleased with their overall performance, especially given the duds they dropped in last years non-conference schedule (Uninspired victories over Arkie Stat, TCU, and UCF). They have the same record at this time as they did last year, but there's definitely a better feel about the team, and while they have to go through an absolute gauntlet in Big XII play, I feel they're much better prepared going into conference now that 365 days ago. The one thing that worries me is that the Horns haven't established a consistent threat on the ground yet. Vondrell McGee looks decent, but he seems more like a third down runner than an every down back. Cody Johnson is a bruiser, and honestly, I'm thrilled with how he's playing so far, but again, he's a change of pace, not a 20+ carry back. Fozzy Whittaker looked fantastic in the UTEP game, but he's been injured and hasn't seen the field since then, so who knows about him for the long-term. As great as Colt has been-and he has been terrific-if no one emerges as a consistent rinning threat, UT could be in for some rough times, especially against, oh I don't know, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Texas Tech-among others-who's outstanding offenses will kill a team that can't control the clock. Also, get well soon Blaine Irby, a class act if there ever was one.

As for Oklahoma-they look outstanding, they're gonna be number 1 in the next poll, yadda yadda yadda. That's enough about that, I don't want to think about them for as long as possible.

Before the Alabama-UGA game this evening, the aforementioned Uncle Jimbo from Arkansas (seriously, I couldn't make that up) exchanged text messages about who we thought would win. I was picking the Bulldogs, and was honestly surprised when he texted me that he was picking Bama-by two touchdowns! I didn't think there was any chance of that happening, but low (lo, loe?) and behold, the Tide pulled it out by 11, in a game that wasn't nearly that close. As the final whistle was blowing, I received another text from Jim, who reminded me that 12 points is in fact two touchdowns, and so he was only one point from getting another pick exactly right. So for the record, that's two games that Uncle picked the exact score for, and was a TOTAL of four points off. While he isn't a prophet just yet, the line gets blurrier by the day. (If only I had the picture of you as an overgrown 18 year old wearing cutoff jean shorts and a Texas Longhorn T-shirt that bared your midriff while holding a line of catfish, I would show the world what a smart-looking man your are, Jimbo) Also, he did buy me this thing when I was like one, so he's known what he's doing for a while now:

While West Virginia fans probably aren't ready to admit it, how much do they with RichRod was still coaching the Mountaineers? Granted, Michigan won't be real good for at least two seasons, but today's come-from-behind win against 'Sconsin showed that he's a legit coach and that he's going to do great things in Ann Arbor. I can't wait to see the Michigan/Ohio State games for the next three years, when T.Pryor comes into his own for OSU, and the Wolverines continue to adapt to the Rodriguez Way.

As far as I know, that's it for now, gotta go get my fantasy football lineup ready for my match up tomorrow with this guy.

Over and Out.

Here's Looking At You...

2008-09-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me say a quick thank you to Justin Scott for calling me a 'quasi-journalist' in the comments section two days ago. I've never been a quasi-anything so thank you, kind sir for the respect I've worked oh so hard to achieve.

And now, for the point of this post. I've done my favorite and least favorite college football and basketball uniforms, but it dawned on me recently that we're coming up on four weeks into the NFL season, and I've yet to do a rundown of teams who's unis i love-and hate. I'll start with the five or so unis I can't stand and then do a rundown of my top ten favs (betcha can't guess who I think is number one!) As always, the more classic and unchanged, the better. W/O further ado, the Bottom Five Or So:

Washington Redskins: These unis are so ugly they're almost cool, but not really. Could be worse, however, if not for the ultra-cool helmet logo.

Philly Eagles: They had a waaay better look in the early-90's/Randall Cunningham era, but I can't get into the updated look at all. Is it green? Aqua? Metallic-something?

NE Patriots: Overall, not a horrible look, but the old-school blood red, Patriot Pat uniforms were possibly the coolest things ever, and they had to change it. Shame.

Seattle Seahawks: Another team that should have kept their old unis. I absolutely loved the silver/blue/green combo from the 90's, but these new things look very high school to me. When the helmet, jersey, and pants are the exact same color (if that color isn't white), it's time to reevaluate things.

Houston Texans: As a Cowboy fan, this isn't a shot at the Texans, believe me. It's just that they're the youngest team in the NFL, and they had a chance to come up with some cool, fresh, unique name and uniform combo, and the best they can come up with is 'Texans' with red, white and blue unis. Very very very generic look (See also: Patriots, Bills, Giants, Titans)

Speaking of...The Buffalo Bills: In my opinion, easily the worst look in the league, and the shame of it is, like previously mentioned teams, the throwback look is by far better than their regular unis. If they switched to this look permanently, they'd find themselves on the Best-Dressed list.

Also Receiving Votes: Detroit Lions, Cincy Bengals, Arizona Cards, Minnesota Vikings

And Now...the Top Ten:

Honorable Mention: Indy Colts: I used to hate them, but they're growing on me, so I had to throw it in there.

10) Miami Dolphins: Probably an unpopular pick, as the color scheme is a little weird, what with all the pastel-looking green, but I love that they haven't changed, and can't imagine the hate they must have inspired when they were revealed in the 1960's.

9) Pittsburgh Steelers: From pretty much here on in, just know that I think the rest of the teams are 'extremely classic, greatly unchanged, and unique'

8) Cleveland Browns:

7) Nawlins Saints: Can't go wrong with the gold/black combo. Well done.

6) Kansas City Chiefs:

5) Chicago Bears:

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The only one on this list that isn't a classic, old-school pick, but a big step forward from the yellow-orange look they previously owned.

3) Green Bay Packers: Classic team, classic stadium, classic look.

2) Oakland Raiders: Say what you want about the team itself, but if I weren't such an unapologetic homer, they'd be number one, and it wouldn't be close. Oh well.

1) Dallas Cowboys: I'm sure you're shocked that I picked the 'Boys number one, but come on. Wearing white at home, the silver helmet with the star...Love, love, love it.

Shock Of The Century

2008-09-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

I know this is a 'Sports Blog' and whatnot, but I couldn't resist:

From the 'Gee, Ya Think So, Doctor?' Department...

Clay's been Aiken to tell the truth for some time now

Go Play Intramurals, Brother!

2008-09-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a second today and salute a person that all of us has seen at one point or another. At least those of us who have visited a local university's intramural field any time in the past 6 years.

The guy is someone I like to call the "I'm not as good as I dress" guy.

You know what I'm talking about-the dude who's playing intramural football in the middle of September, when it's 80+ degrees outside, yet he's dressed like he's about to lace 'em up for the Cowboys (or Packers, if that suites you better) in the 1967 Ice Bowl. This player can easily be spotted by his cutoff T-shirt being accented by a long-sleeved Under Armour skin-tight shirt with multiple sweatbands on each arm (usually one at the elbow, and one around mid-forearm or wrist). The player also finds it fitting to use the cut-off sleeves as a silly-looking headband as well. And of course, to top it all off-RECEIVER'S GLOVES. That's right, receiver's gloves for INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL!

I think those things are unnecessary in real football, much less intramural football. Few things in life cause me to spell in all-caps, and especially all-caps and italics, but this really gets me going for some reason.

In no universe should it be allowed for some average Joe, 5 foot 11 white dude (Or black dude, it doesn't matter. Bad taste on the intramural field knows no color) who runs a 5.4 40 be allowed to even pretend that he's D-1 material, even if he was the third-string tight end his senior year.

At first I thought this phenomenon was limited to Moonies and ACU freshmen who were still holding on to high school dreams, but as I walked back to my car after class yesterday (At Texas Tech University, for those who don't know. And yes, it shocks me still, too) I noticed that a fair number of Red Raiders think that this is an acceptable way to look in public.

It is a shame, and I'm not going to take it anymore. That's why I'm taking my feelings public, to a blog that five people read, but still. Pass the word, and be a good citizen because friends don't let friends dress like @$!*%#'s.

Odds are, more than one of them played real good in high school.

Better Late Than Never

2008-09-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

I know it's already two weeks into the college football season, and I haven't made any comments, but trust me, I've been watching and I'm full of comments. Want proof? Read on...

1) I know FAU isn't exactly UofF, but I was thrilled with the outcome of the Horns first game last Saturday. After the lackluster performance at home in last year's opener (see point 2) it was encouraging to see Texas look sharp and dominate a lesser team and was impressive.

2) Speaking of 'lesser teams,' the newly minted Red-Wolves of Arkansas State must love playing teams from the state of Texas. After nearly upsetting UT in last years opener, they go to Kyle Field and beat the Aggs and then crushed Texas Southern, quarterbacked by Bobby Reid (the player who was the center of Mike Gundy's "I'm a man!" tirade last season) this weekend, 83-10. 83 points?!?! A lot of basketball teams don't score that much!

3) The Colorado/Colorado State game may be one of the most underrated rivalries in college football. The crowd is always obscenely electric, and the game is usually a good one. This years match up turned out to be pretty one-sided after a close start, but how many times do you see back-to-back kickoff returns for TD's? Good stuff in Denver.

4) A lot of teams to watch that will be either good or REALLY good withing the next two years: Arkansas, Miami, Texas, Alabama, Notre Dame. Each has a ton of young talent that, assuming they progress as expected, should do a lot of winning in a few years.

5) Speaking of number 4, I'm very happy Texas doesn't have to go to Arkansas next year. Because Arkansas is playing ATM next year, the second game of the UT/UA series got moved back a few years. This makes me happy, because by then Petrino should be gone to a job he considers greener pastures, and the Horns may catch the Hogs in another rebuilding stage.

Now for a few NFL thoughts:
1) Yes the Cowboys looked really good yesterday, but let's hold the Tampa reservations, ya hear? Next week will go a long way in determining how good Dallas really is, but even then, it's only week two.

2) How many years will it take San Diego to underachieve until someone finally realizes that Norv Turner is a great coordinator, but a mediocre head coach? I'm not saying they're done. It is only week one after all, but how does a Carolina team with it's best player suspended come to SD and pull out a last-second win?

3) My not-so-bold prediction for who's coming out of the suddenly not-so-dominate AFC? The Pittsbugh Steelers. With Brady being hurt for maybe the year, (breaking news alert: he's out) San Diego looking unprepared, Indy somehow losing at home to the Bears, and Jacksonville managing to drop a game at Tennessee in which VY doesn't play well AND gets hurt, it looks like the Steelers have the early inside track at making the Super Bowl. Also, the AFC north may be football's new worst division, although the AFC East and NFC West may have something to say about that before things are all said and done.

4) Intersting tidbit that probably no one else noticed: After the thrilling finish to the Carolina/SD game, FOX had a rundown of the statistical leaders. Instead of displaying the name Donte Rosario, the tight end who caught the game winner, the FOX graphic read: Rosario Dawson-7rec 96yds 1td. Apparently, the FOX graphics personell got Rosario mixed up with the Sin City (among other things) actress.

Not the Panthers tight end

The Second Ten

2008-09-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

It's been well documented around these parts how I made it a goal to read ten books this year. Well, that goal was achieved three months ago, and being someone to never rest on my laurels (whatever those are) I decided to keep on reading. Here's a list and quick review of books 11-20 of 2008:

The Good Guy, Dean Koontz-The sixth Koontz book I've read, and while they're all entertaining, they're also beginning to read the same. This story (like many Koontz novels) centers around an average guy being put in a situation to be a hero and save an innocent civilian, in this case, a young lady who is the target of a murder-for-hire. Intense and exciting, yet predictable with an ending I think I've read before. ***

Fight Club, Chuck Palahniuk-I know it's a cult classic, along with the movie, but I just didn't get into it too much. It's a very interesting read if nothing else, but when that's the best you can say about a book, it may be better to rent the movie and save yourself some time. **

Under The Banner Of Heaven, John Krakauer-An amazing story about the history of the Mormon religion. The book mostly focuses on the Fundamentalist Mormon Church, the extreme branch of the religion that condones polygamy, and whose followers claim to receive revelations directly from God to marry multiple wives, and do other fun things like, you know, kill people who disagree with them. *****

The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini-A great read that centers around fictitious boyhood friends who get torn apart by the Russian invasion of Afghanistan, and it's consequences that reach all the way to the present day.****

IV: A Decade Of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas, & Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs Chuck Klosterman-Both greats reads, but so similar that I put them together on the list. IV is a collection of Klosterman's best/favorite articles from the various editorials he contributes to, while SD&CCP's is all original thought about various topics that only Klosterman cares about, yet is extremely entertaining.****

Hero Of The Underground, Jason Peter-The much-hyped book from the former Nebraska Cornhusker and Carolina Panther DE Jason Peter. It's definitely an eye-opener and quite honestly amazing that Peter didn't kill himself through all the abuse he put himself through after leaving Nebraska. Would have been a better read, though, if Peter didn't write like a seventh-grader who's mad at the world. I say that because, when there's three swear words per line, it becomes difficult to take the author seriously after about ten pages. Just sayin. Even still, it's entertaining and many times shocking.***

The Shack, William Young-The uber-popular Christian fiction book did not disappoint me. It's a story of a heartbroken father, Mack, who travels into the mountains of Northwest America to discover God, and how He (or She?) still loves Mack and is there for him, even when he doesn't see God.****

Can I Keep My Jersey?, Paul Shirley-Shirley, a pro-basketball journeyman, writes about his experiences traveling the world trying to stick with a team for any sort of significant time. It is a great look at the unseen side of pro basketball, and Shirley does a great job of making fun of himself and his situation as he finds himself in multiple unenviable situations as a pro athlete.****

Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell-Easily the best book of this second group, the story is a first-hand account of Luttrell, a Navy SEAL who survived a gruesome attack from the Taliban in the hills of Afghanistan three years ago. It gives great insight to what it takes to be a SEAL (note: I a'int got 'it,' and you probably don't either) and what our troops experience as they battle for freedom abroad. Highest of high recommendations.*****

Also, if anyone is a Dallas Cowboys fan, or even just a fan of the NFL, I suggest pre-ordering Jeff Pearlman's Boys Will Be Boys. It comes out on Sept 16, and I can't wait to get on this one. I'm gonna go ahead and say that it will be the best thing anyone has ever written about anything. So there.

In a World, Where No One Can Be Trusted...

2008-09-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

In a bit of sad news, the 'trailer voice guy' is no longer with us:

Which begs the question: Now that Mr. Lafontaine has passed, who will be the voice on future movie trailers? If I had a vote, it would go to this guy:

(apologies for the Russian, or whatever the heck language that is, subtitles)

Videos for the Weekend

2008-08-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

Between watching college football all weekend, here are a couple hilarious spoof videos I came across, via si.com.

The first, a cover of Soulja Boy's Crank Dat, brought to you by the students at Bayside High:

And this one goes out especially to the Reeves Brothers, Christopher Luke, and Young Benjamin:

Also, after much encouragement from Brandon and Jig, I finally got around to buying and reading this book, which I highly recommend:

Hook 'em Tech

2008-08-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

If you've known me for more than five minutes, you know that I'm a big (huge, ginormous, avid) fan of the UT Longhorns. Also, if you've known me for more that ten minutes, you know that, as of this week, I'm officially a Texas Tech Red Raider. This, as you can imagine, is a bit of a conundrum for me, especially since TTU already has the 'Beat Texas' T-Shirts prominently displayed in the bookstore. In an effort to clear the air about my loyalty, let me say this: I've been a UT fan since I can remember. I've gone to countless Longhorn football (and basketball) games, and will always be a Horn supporter. At the same time, if there's any other team in the Big XII that I can halfway stand, its Tech. That being said, of the 12 regular season games the Raiders play, I'll be rooting for them to win 11 of those matches.

Also, even though I'm not a huge Tech fan, I must say, it is pretty cool going to a big school at a time that the football team has great expectations, both in conference and nationally. I know that my good friend, Justin Scott feels the same way, after attending Baylor after graduating from ACU. (Wait, what's that? JScott goes to Baylor NOW? Bummer, I thought he went there in 1974? No? Oh, anyway...)

Beyond the 'lifelong loyalty VS where tuition money goes' debate, the important thing is this: college football is upon us, ladies and gentlemen. Rejoice and be glad.

Back From A Rocky Mountain High

2008-08-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I got back from vacation in Estes Park, Colorado with the wife, the in-laws, and the future bromandudeman-in-law. (A few pictures can be found here. The rest are on Kayla's Facebook page, for those who care)

While on the trip, I read this book:

And began this one:

They are/were both extremely entertaining, but so far the most exciting part of either book comes from page 67 of Hero, when Peter is describing the pre-game rituals of the 1997 Cornhuskers. For those of you who were in Gamma Sigma Phi any time between 2004 and 2006 you may remember the chant:

"Dear Lord, the Battles we go through in Life, I ask for the chance and it's fair.

A chance to equal all your stipes, the chance to do it or dare.

And if we win, we win by the code, with faith and honor held high.

And if we lose, we'll stand by the road and cheer as the winner goes by.

'Cause day by day, it gets better and better.

We're the team that won't be beat!

Can't be beat!"

Maybe it's a little corny that I still get excited just reading these words (especially since it's been two and a half years since I've actually said them out loud) but I think it's pretty cool that one of the most dominant teams in college football in the 1990's got jacked up with the same phrase as intramural teams and sing-song participants did at a Dear Christian College. So here's to you, Jason Peter, but more importanly, here's to you, Shane Spencer.

Don't You Put Me On The Backburner

2008-08-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hopefully by now everyone has seen the dramatic finish to the men's 400 freestyle relay. (If you haven't, click on 'dramatic finish' in the previous sentence and be blessed) As exciting and quite frankly, satisfying as the finish to that race was, I must admit, this commercial by Nike comes a close second in the 'goosebump-enducing' category:

Any time you can incorporate a Killers song into an Olympic montage, I'm all for it.

However, any time you combine Marvin Gaye singing the Star-Spangled Banner with the US Men's Basketball team, (Sorry, they're not the Dream Team, that ship sailed in 1992) you have something incredibly incredible:

When you throw these two Nike Olympic commercials into the mix, it begs the question-Does Nike make the greatest commercials of all-time? In my opinion, they absolutely do, and not just because of these two. Besides these, there are numerous classics in the 'Jordan' series, the 'LeBron's,' the 'My Better is Better Than Your Better,' the old squeaky-shoes commercials, and many other I'm sure I'm missing. Feel free to chime in with opinions about what you think the best sports commercials are, I'd love to hear them.
Side Note: The Marvin Gaye footage was taken from his performance before the 1983 NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles. Here is an interesting article about the performance, which happened a year before his untimely death.

It Worked For The White Guy In 'Remeber The Titans'

2008-08-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

Merciful Heavens, I couldn't be more excited about the upcoming season for the Dallas Cowboys. As everyone knows, Home Box Office is doing their annual training camp documentary Hard Knocks about the 'Boys. Since I don't have HBO, this four-minute recap, courtesy of Deadspin will have to do, at least for now.

Special mention should be made of Pac's six-ball punt return and MB3's abusive block around the 1-minute mark.

-Twig

I'm Like A Byrd, Gonna Fly Away

2008-08-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

Being a Rangers fan is difficult. They don't win a whole lot, and when they do, they have a bad habit of getting swept by the Yankees in the first round. However, this season, the club has shown that they have a little fight in them, and last night was a game I would have killed to be at. Watch, Enjoy, Cry a Little...

Go Rangers.

I've Got More Records Than The KGB

2008-08-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, University of Florida head football coach Urban Meyer made the bold statement that his QB, Tim Tebow is the greatest player of this era.

Nevermind the fact that he's not even the best quarterback in the country*, he definitely isn't the best player of an era. Regardless of this atrocity, my uncle (the avid Arkansas fan/SEC braggart) and I (avid UT fan) got into a heated debate about why Tebow isn't the best of an era, and why I think VY is. Obviously, I'm more than a bit biased on why I believe VY to be the best of this era, but the fact is, rather you like Young or not, he is among a group of at least four others who have played college football in the last four years who are/were better than Tebow. For those who care, here is my very unscientific ranking of the 6 best college football players since 2000:

1. Vince Young

2. Reggie Bush

3. Darren McFadden

4. Adrian Peterson

5. Tim Tebow

6. Matt Leinart

Say what you want about Tebow, I'm certainly not trying to make him sound like a bum or anything here, but anyone who claims that he's the greatest college football player of an era is clearly way off-base. That, or they're giving the 'Tebow for Heisman' campaign a bit of a head start, right Coach?

Also, even if you disagree with my rankings or my thoughts on specific players, what really matters is this: We're talking about college football again, and the season is just around the corner.

-Twig

*As much as I hate to say it, Sam Bradford, Graham Harrell and Chase Daniel may have something to say about this. I a'int sayin...I'm just sayin.

Going Through The Big D, And Don't Mean Divorce

2008-07-27T21:26:00.000-07:00

I woke up Friday morning with a text message on my phone from my good friend, Brandon Maenius. Now, I don't care who you are or where you're from, any time you get a text that says, '*Come to Dallas and I'll feed you pancakes and wingstop' You, my friend, go to Dallas.

After consulting the wife (She was throwing a shower for her engaged sister and was happy to see me hit the road), I headed to Belton to pick up...wait for it...JIG!! After that quick stop, we headed up I-35, getting to Big D just in time for dinner.

After demolishing a pizza dinner, we proceeded to play Rock Band until about 4 in the morning, and I'm not gonna lie, Second Hand Beer Noodle is not only an awesome band name, it's a pretty fair sounding band as well. Saturday afternoon played out like Friday night, with us taking the group global, and gaining fans by the boatload.

However, Saturday night we did something that was quite honestly, nothing short of phenomenal. I'm not sure how to accurately explain it, but I will say this: If you ever get a chance to play Top Golf-DO IT!

Is it a driving range? Is it a video game? Is it a combonation of bowling, darts and golf? Yes it is, and so much more. I won't ruin it for you, but trust me, it's a worth-while experience. Also, if anyone is interested in opening up a new Top Golf in the Houston, Austin or San Antonio areas, give any of the six gentlemen in the picture below a call, we're already interested.

We may not look very smart, but overall it's not a bad group of guys to spend a weekend playing video games with. (Picture taken December 2006)

*And yes, I did eat pancakes and Wing Stop before making it back to the Sug

You Are A Winner!!

2008-07-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard by now, but apparently Rudy G's son is suing Duke University for cutting him from the golf team. Hopefully this lawsuit will get thrown out before it comes close to court, because the precedent this type of lawsuit could set is very disturbing.

It's a sad day in America when a college student decides it's a good idea to sue his university for 'impeding his chances of making it to the PGA Tour,' even though this kid is apparently a very mediocre golfer. At least his dad is a gracious loser. At least he knew it wouldn't be a good idea to sue the American public after failing in his bid to become the Republican candidate for President of the United States. Whatever.

The Great Hambino

2008-07-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

I was speaking with the commander-in-chief of Running Down A Dream last night and we realized something very interesting about the Bambino of Arlington, Mr. Josh Hamilton. Have you heard, he once was a drug user? Seriously, have you read anything, anywhere about his past demons? Honestly, I've tried and tried to find information about these allegations, but they're nowhere to be found.

Fortunately, that is all that the ESPN and FOX announcers talked about during his at-bats last night and his awesome performance in the Home Run Derby Monday night, so now I feel up-to speed with his story.

On a serious note, I'm very happy for Josh and wish him all the best in his battle to fully recover from the past that still haunts him today. He seems like a great Christian guy and his openness and honesty about his past is both refreshing and inspiring. Hopefully he'll perform at a high level for a long enough time that he's seen as a great person who's also a very, very good baseball player.

Get Lost

2008-07-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

As some may know by now, me, my wife, and the in-laws are spending this summer watching the first three seasons of Lost on DVD. Of course, we're totally hooked on the show, and we usually watch at least two episodes per evening, so we're getting through the DVD's prettyquick.

As much as I love the show, however, there are a few things that bother me about some of the characters:

Jack-The fearless leader of the castaways. He absolutely drives me crazy. I understand that he's the doctor, so somehow that means that he has a solution to everything, but come on. He gets way too headstrong about being in control and making every important decision. He's also too emotional and lets those emotions get in the way of making the right decision all the time. If there was ever a doctor who needed to prescribe himself the Chill Pill, it's Jack. Plus, lately he's been spending too much time with that harlot Juliette, and I have the feeling that within about two episodes, he's really gonna regret that alliance.
Side Note-We watched episode 18 of season three last night, and I actually wanted to punch Jack at one point. It was when Kate came to talk to him on the beach about the helicopter girl that the guys found in the jungle the previous night. Anyway, Kate wanted to talk to him alone, but Jack pulled the "Anything you need to tell me, you can tell me in front of her (Juliette)" routine. That junk hacked me off. Seriously, if I were Kate, I would have kicked him in the teeth and walked away. That was such bull. I need to move on. Speaking of Kate...

Kate-The little lost puppy of the show. Drives me nuts with how she constantly insists on going along with the guys on searches through the jungle. Honestly, how many times have you heard this conversation:
Kate: "Where are you going?"
Jack: "John found a hatch, we're going to check it out."
K: "I'm going too."
J: "No, you're not."
K: "Yes, I am."
J: "No, it could be too dangerous. Kate, you're not going with us."
K: "I'm going."
Sawyer, looking tough and agitated at the same time: "Hhhmmmmpphh"
J: "Kate, we need you here...on the beach...to look after everyone else."
K: "Jack. I'm going"
J: "Fine."

Gaw-lee, it's a good thing Kate is cute, if she wasn't, she would have been Medusa spider-poisoned and buried alive by now.

Claire-Another Lost-er who's fortunate she's just as cute as a button. She actually brings nothing to the table. At least Jack and Kate do things like try to rescue their friends who are captured, pick fruit, work the hatch (at least until, you know, it imploded). Claire has a child, yes, but that's no excuse to not pitch in a little here and there. Plus, for a native Australian, her accent sounds brutal, not at all like the locals on Real World: Sydney. It pains my ears when she says things like "Chaaa-leee! Thae stole mayy bay-beee! May bay-bee! Cha-lee, it's gone!"

I guess that's pretty much it for the characters who annoy me. I'm getting close to adding Locke to the list, though. I liked him at first because he had such a cruddy life before the island, and because he reminded me of a teacher I worked with this past year, but recently, he's made some very questionable choices. I've got my eye on you, John Locke, your getting close to my bad side, Sir.

On the other hand, I'm a big fan of Sawyer (even though he's clearly crazy and one of the seediest characters in TV history), Saiyd, Desmond, and Hurley, so hopefully they stay on my good side.

-Twig

The Things I'm Doing Today

2008-07-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

Since it's been a while, my current reading:

And listenings:

"Tranquilize" by the Killers, from the mysterious Sawdust Album

It's Gonna Make It Hard To Tell You That I'm Leaving

2008-06-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

I remember the night of October 27, 2004 for two reasons. First of all, it was 'intramural night' for GSP, one of the most challenging pledging events we have, except that by 2004, I was a member, and on the giving end of all the torture. I also remember 10/27/04 because it was the night the Boston Red Sox finally put an end to 86 years of bad luck and won the World Series by beating the St. Louis Cardinals 4 games to 0, by far the greatest memory I have as a baseball fan.

At that point in my life, I had never been to Boston and had never seen them play in person, yet they were my favorite team in the Majors after the Rangers. This affection for the BoSox started when I was a kid and my dad told me A) How much we (and by 'we,' I mean Agans, for generations and generations) hate the Yankees and everything about them and B) His memories of the summer of 1978, when he was taking summer classes at UT and rooming with a friend who happened to be, yes, a Yankees fan. That summer, the Red Sox had a huge lead in the standings, and looked for all the world like they were finally going to break the Curse. Just when Red Sox fans were feeling comfortable with their 14 game division lead, the Yanks made a furious second half comeback, capped by the 'Boston Massacre,' a four game sweep in Fenway Park. After winning a one-game playoff, the Yankees went on to beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in six games to win the World Series.

In part because of this hatred toward the Yanks, I became a Sox fan by default, and pulled for them every October, since by then, the Rangers were way out of the pennant race. I remember the pain that Aaron Boone caused in game game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, and how hopeless I felt after the first three games of the 2004 ALCS. When Dave Roberts stole second in game 4 that year, hope was alive, and after an unprecedented rally from three down, the BoSox were in the World Series, and honestly, the Cardinals didn't stand a chance.

I write all this because, well, times have changed. After winning the 2004 Series, the Sox became, overnight, America's Sweetheart. It's literally impossible to walk across a college campus (coughcoughACUcough) and NOT see at least 5 Red Sox hats being worn, most likely by fans who, pre-2004 didn't know a thing about the Sox. The bandwaggoning continued to grow, and after the Sox won the 2007 World Series, reached epidemic portions.

I got to witness this phenomenon last night at the Juice Box, just two weeks after experiencing the power that is the Yankee fan. Let me start by saying this: For all the crap I've given friends who actually like the Yankees (I'm looking at you, Luke Reeves and Michelle Oakley), I have to admit, they have great, great fans, even on the road. Going into the game against New York two weeks ago, I knew we'd be in for a long night of obnoxious "Let's Go Yankees!" clap, clap, clapclapclap chants. Well, I was right. There was probably a 60-40 split in Astros to Yankee fans, but the Yankee fans were much more vocal than the 'Stros fans, and cheered for their Bombers every chance they got.

Heading to the game last night, I expected the same from BoSox fans. I was wrong. While the Stros fans/Sox fans split was at least as close as it was against the Yanks, the Sox fans were shockingly, ehh, what's the word? Uninterested? (Doubt that, they wouldn't be there if they were uninterested) Unfamiliar with the players? (Not a chance, Boston's on ESPN more than Chris Berman) Tired? (No way, the game started at 6, an hour earlier than most evening games in Houston) What was it then? I mean, why did all these Red Sox 'fans' only cheer when Manny, and Kevin Youuuuuuuuukilis came up to bat? Suddenly, it hit me like a Mookie Wilson grounder through the five-hole.

These fans aren't real fans.

They saw the Sox become the darling of sports four years ago, latched on to the bandwagon, scooted farther inward after more fans hopped on last year, and haven't let go since.

I should have known this would be the case the second we took our seats and saw two middle-school aged boys sitting two rows in front of us wearing brand-spankin-new 'Ramirez 24' T-shirts and bright shiney hats, both of which couldn't have been bought more than two hours before the game. Besides the junior high bandwagonners, to my left were two toolish looking dudes with popped collars and green Sox hats. Disgusting.

For all the arrogance and obnoxiousness of Yankee fans, you have to give it to them-they're real fans. It isn't nearly as popular to cheer for New York as it is Boston, so you know they're the real deal when they show up in visiting ballparks, ready to raise heck and support their team.

Much has been made about this 'Red Sox Nation' phenomenon on other blogs, websites, and television shows, so this isn't exactly a new occurrence. Heck, even the most notorious Boston homer, ESPN's the Sports Guy, wrote an article about the absurdity of the Sox bandwagon last year.

All that to say-I've made up my mind to depledge my allegiance to Red Sox Nation. This is a decision I have been thinking about for almost a year now, and after last night, that decision is final. It's become too easy to be a Red Sox fan, and way too convenient to ride the coattails of a team you know is going to win than it is to stay with a team through thick and thin. I'll still root for them to beat the Yankees of course, but I can't in my right mind cheer for a team that I honestly have no real connection with, and one that 13 year olds across the nation openly pull for only because they know the Sox are good, and because middle schoolers have no soul.

This choice isn't anything against the Sox players. Heck, they seem to be pretty cool guys. Youkilis, Manny, Lowell, Varitek, etc are all great players, seem to be generally good guys, and there's really not anything to dislike about the team. (Side note: After the game, we were driving away from the ballpark and I saw a dreaklocked Latino riding in the back of a golf cart. After doing a double or triple take, I realized, 'Holy cow, that's Manny Ramirez!' I hurriedly rolled down my window, stuck my arm out, waved and shouted, "Mannn-eeeeee!!" And yes, he saw me and waved back. Who's the man.) It's just that, what's the fun in rooting for a team you have no real connection to when you know they're always going to win? That's like rooting for Wal-Mart or Big Oil in 2008, or the Black Plague in 1400.

For those who are die-hard Red Sox fans-those who suffered through 1978, 1986, 2003, and so many other heartbreaking years, I have no problem with the success they've enjoyed recently. If the Rangers ever reach the point that Boston has these past four years, I'll be extremely happy and proud that 'my team' finally made it to the top.

For now, however, I have to be honest with myself and realize that I'm not a tried and true BoSox fan, and more importantly-no one likes a bandwagon hopper.

Goodbye, old friend, it was fun while it lasted

(L-R) Cole Griffith, Me, Garrett Oakley, Brandon Maenius, Fenway Park, March 2005

It's Not Fun To Play At The YMCA

2008-06-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

Whilst perusing the archives of espn.com this morning, I came across an absolute gem written by Patrick Hruby from last May. If anyone has played pickup/intramural basketball at any point in life, you can relate to this article. Without further adooo, I give you....THE PICKUP GAME FROM HEEEELLLLLLLLLL!!!!!

Can't Say I Saw This Coming

2008-06-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

In an upset to upset all upsets, the Dirty Dirty is tops on 'the most desirable city to live, work, and play based on job opportunities, population growth, and affordable living' list, according to Yahoo!.

Somewhere in Southern California, Dan Carlson is swearing out loud.

-Twig