Love/Hate or is it Hate/Love?

If you know me, you know that I love these guys. Which means I hate these guys. I hate the White Sox with every last cell even my body. My skin cells are White Sox haters. I hate the White Sox so much that I would rather have the Twins go to the World Series and lose then ever see the White Sox win a World Series.

But something happened to me recently. Something so unimaginable that even I can't believe it happened. I was watching some sportscenter (I know right? I think I was channel surfing or something) and I saw the highlight of White Sock outfielder Carlos Quentin hitting a home run and running into the dugout. Then Paul Konerko hit a bomb. I said to myself,

"That's what makes them good."

Wait. What did I just say?

"That's what makes them good?"

This is a team that I despise. I hate you White Sox. I hate you. But the subconscious thought got me thinking. And I admit, I respect the White Sox. I don't like their hitting strategy as a team but I respect that they hit bombs, and how can you not really. I hated Aaron Rowand until he stopped a fence with his face. I hated him only because he was a White Sox and tried really hard. Well that and his dumb bleached fu manchu. But I like that he plays the game hard. Hell, I am even a huge supporter of Ozzie. Yeah, it's true. If Gardy wasn't on the pine for the Twins, I would want Ozzie Guillen as the Twins manager.

Looking deeper into this issue, Ozzie is the guy that should get all of the credit in my respecting the hated. He was the one that gave the Twins credit in the way they play baseball. Sure they don't hit any home runs but just last year they were 4th in the majors in runs scored. Ozzie praised how Nick Punto and Jason Bartlett were tough outs and how they had an all out way of playing the game. Ozzie liked it so much that he called them the Piranha's (I hate this nick name by the way. Who wants to be a piranha? Not I).

To truly say you hate something something (in the sport sense) you have to have respect tied to that hatred. If the Twins beat up on the White Sox every time they played it would be no fun. I enjoy watching both teams go at it. I enjoy watching Mark Buehrle smirk on the mound after getting Joe Mauer to ground into a 4-6-3. I enjoy hating the White Sox. Thank you south side of Chicago...it will be the only time you hear that from me.

For more on the Twins, Sam and I started our own little blog and we will be updating it often with video and words. Go here.

Tuesday Trash: Rain Delays

Quick, what is something that have never happened at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome? If you said a home run hit by the Twins you are wrong, although it was a good guess. If you said a World Series you'd also be wrong (thank ya). The one thing that has never happened at a dome is a rain delay. And the one thing I hate more then when the Twins go on the road and get rained out is her (act your age you creep me out).

This such force of nature happened on the Twins last road trip. The team was in Boston for a two game series (that doesn't even make sense. Two games? Two days off in a week? Why?) and it rained. A lot. So much that they called the first game of the series. The next day...it rained. So much so that they called the first game in the 7th inning with Boston crushing the Twins 10-1. It was like mother nature was waving the white flag for the Twins (thank you mother nature). Someone the rain let up enough so that Boston could beat the Twins in the 2nd game of the double header. I've never really seen that before so what was something new. Call the first game because of weather and someone still get in the night cap. It was a good job.

While I do hate rain delays, I can't wait for the first one at Kirby Puckett Field. I am going to be in the bleachers for that one, for sure. Maybe after the first rain delay I will feel like a real baseball fan instead of 75 and "sunny" for every home game. The dome sucks.

What were they thinking?

The NFL Draft is good for two things: Stupid picks and Mel Kiper Jr. I can't and won't comment on Mel but I just have to question some of these draft picks that NFL GM's select. With that, let's rip the guys that make more money then I ever will...

• Oakland Raiders, Pick #7 Darrius Heyward-Bey WR
  

Umm what? Al Davis drafted a fast receiver, something that everyone knew he would...but it is the receiver he drafted has everyone scratching their heads. Al Davis just drafted Heward-Bey because he was the fastest player in the draft and he would not have been available in the 2nd round. This happens in the NFL.

• Kansas City Chiefs, Pick #3 Tyson Jackson DE

The Cheifs selected Jackson with the 3rd pick while passing on Aaron Curry and Michael Crabtree. I get that they needed a pass rusher and maybe he will end up being a very good player. But I have a feeling that Glenn Dorsey tricked Scott Peoli into drafting his smoking buddy. Just a hunch.

• Philadelphia Eagles, Pick #19, Jeremy Maclin WR

I am not upset about the Eagles drafting Jeremy Maclin at 19 because he is a steal at that spot, the beef that I have with this pick is that Andy Reid and the Eagles mangement decided that Jeremy Maclin was better then Anquan Boldin. They could have traded this pick for Boldin straight up and got a deal done instantly. Instead they draft a receiver that is exactly like one they already have, only a little better. The Eagles needed Boldin because McNabb does not have many years left and their window to win a championship is only open until McNabb wants to close it. Because it gets cold in Philly.

• Minnesota Vikings, Pick #22, Percy Harvin WR

Wait? This pick is awesome! Skol Vikings my friends, Skol Vikings

Rah Rah Riot

What an odd night. April 25th, 2009. A night filled with promise and optimism was eventually reduced to tear gas and rubber bullets.

Let me set the stage for you...

Spring Jam is the University of Minnesota's attempt at celebrating Spring and a chance to have one final party before everyone hunkers down and crams for finals. My experience with Spring Jam is nothing to talk about. Freshman year was probably the most fun I've had during it and that was only because I was a freshman and it was a new experience. That year it was crappy and rainy for most of the weekend, but we made the most of it. My sophomore year we had the best weather and it had all of the potential of being a good weekend but outside forces and other events took place. We still had the night of destruction, so that made up for it. Last year's Spring Jam the weather was at about 40 degrees and balmy all weekend. Not a good mix for outside drinking. This year was suppose to be different. This was the year where all of the disappointments of years past were to be just that, in the past. But I have learned over my years here: never have a positive outlook on anything put on by the school, athletic or otherwise.

Even if I were to expect the worst I could have never imagined what took place on the corner of 14th and 7th in Dinkytown.

The reason why I was so pumped for this years Spring Jam was because Talib Kweli was performing and I am a big fan. And it was free! As Chase and I were walking to the concert we were enjoying the unexpectedly nice weather (it was suppose to be thunderstorming). Chase was trying to be a downer (or a realist, whichever you prefer) and I tried my best to convince him that this will be a sweet night. We got to the concert earlier then expected and decided to head to a local watering hole for a beer. When we got to the bar we found out that the concert was cancelled because Talib got stuck in Chicago (how?). With that my dreams were crushed and apparently so were the dreams of many other college students. Since we were already out (this was at about 9:15) Sam and I decided to grab a bite to eat, have a few beers and then call it a night. B Loco was hopping and we took advantage of the 2 for 1's. After the beers we started walking home along 15th ave. A few blocks later I turned to my left to see what was going on and I saw a fire with a bunch of kids yelling around it. I recommended that we check it out because how many times do you see a fire in the middle of the street?

"USA, USA, USA" was the chant that was going on when we walked up to the scene (Sam did not hesitate to join in the chant because he hates all other nations) and that turned into "Flip a car, flip a car". After pushing our way to the front lines of the fire and walking on glass the entire time, Sam and I looked at eachother and decided enough was enough and started to walk home. I found out later on that we left at the perfect time as cops came not even 10 minutes later. Not ever have I witnessed a riot and I'm glad it finally happened. Maybe next time we can riot because our sports teams won something...but probably not.

For more info click here, and here, and here, here too.

NFL Draft: Round 1 Mock

The NFL Draft. The biggest day in the NFL that does not include someone hitting someone. Every year it seems like something outrageous and/or unbelievable and I'm sure this year will be no different. I am no expert or do I have inside information but this is how the first round will happen...

Pick #1 Detroit Lions
Who they should pick: Becky "The Icebox" O'Shea FB/LB
The Lions recently updated their logo to a more fierce Lion. The Lions are trying to get meaner and who better to start that trend then The Icebox? No one that's who.
Who they will pick: Matthew Stafford QB
They need a quarterback and he is ready to go now.

Pick #2 St. Louis Rams
Who they should pick: The Charleston Southern University Athletic Training Staff
Look, the Rams need to keep Steven Jackson healthy and who better then these guys? A lot of hype surrounding this crew and hopefully they can deliver.
Who they will pick: Jason Smith OT
Look, the Rams need to keep Steven Jackson healthy and who better then this guy? A lot of hype surrounding this guy and hopefully he can deliver.

Pick #3 Kansas City Chiefs
Who they should pick: Mark Sanchez QB
I know what you are thinking, "Andy, they already have Matt Cassel, why would they draft Mark Sanchez?" Well I will tell you. Matt Cassel was a backup his entire career at USC. Sanchez started at USC. It's pretty easy to see who is better.
Who they will pick: Aaron Curry LB
The Chiefs go with the sure pick here. Curry is for real and you can build a defense around a player like this.

Pick #4 Seattle Seahawks
Who they should pick: Michael Crabtree WR
Matt Hasselbeck needs athletes to throw too and Michael Crabtree is the best playmaker in the draft.
Who they will pick: Mark Sanchez QB
Seattle learned something last year when Matt Hasselbeck went down to injury last year, they are screwed. This is also the perfect situation for Mark Sanchez as he can learn under Hasselbeck until he is ready to rock. Seattle just needs players healthy and they will compete in the NFC West next year.

Pick #5 Cleveland Browns
Who they should pick: BJ Raji DT
Raji is the perfect nose tackle for the 3-4. But the Browns like to do what is not best for the team.
Who they will pick: Michael Crabtree WR
The Browns are eventually going to trade Braylon Edwards, eventually. That means they need a playmaker and Crabtree will do just nicely.

Pick #6 Cincinnati Bengals
Who they should pick: New York Image Consultant
The Bengals have needed a new look for years now. Maybe they can help.
Who they will pick: Eugene Monroe OT
They need to protect Carson Palmer better than last year. Monroe will help.

Pick #7 Oakland Raiders
Who they should pick: Greg Cannom
Al Davis needs help. Cannom won the Academy Award last year for best make-up. It's a start.
Who they will pick: Jeremy Maclin WR
Al Davis likes speed. Maclin has speed.

Pick #8 Jacksonville Jaguars
Who they should pick: Dr. Drew Pinsky
The Jags are having a lot of drug and alcohol related problems recently. Dr. Drew would help them overcome their disease and help them play football again.
Who they will pick: BJ Raji DT
BJ fills a need for the Jags with his size in the middle of the defense.

Pick #9 Green Bay Packers
Who they should pick: Greg Paulus ATH
Aaron Rogers needs a shootout partner, Greg Paulus is that guy.
Who they will pick: Brian Orakpo DE/LB
Orakpo becomes the outside rushing DE/LB that the Packers need opposite of Aaron Kampman.

Pick #10 San Francisco 49ers
Who they should pick: Andre Smith OT
They need someone to step in right away and protect Frank Gore and whoever throws the ball for the 9ers this year.
Who they will pick: Andre Smith OT
They do what I say, when I say.

Pick #11 Buffalo Bills
Who they should pick: Mitch Berger P

Berger is the greatest Canadian born NFL player, ever. He would bring a boost to the Bills fan base as they play a few of their games above the border.
Who they will pick: Aaron Maybin DE

Maybin is a slick rushing DE that has a motor that doesn't stop.

Pick #12 Denver Broncos
Who they should pick: Richard Davis

Davis is the creator of the bullet proof vest. Something Denver players could use.
Who they will pick: Tyson Jackson DE

Jackson is a pass rusher that the Broncos need badly. They could also use Mark Sanchez but couldn't we all.

Pick #13 Washington Redskins
Who they should pick: Edward Jones

Edward Jones is a financial advisory corporation. Daniel Snyder likes to spend lots of money of people and they never pan out. Edward can help.
Who they will pick: Michael Oher OT

Washington settles on Oher to solidify their protection up front.

Pick #14 New Orleans Saints
Who they should pick: Kim Kardashian

Now that Reggie Bush and Kardashian are a item, it wouldn't be too hard to get her on the team. And Ray J can tell you that she is a team player.
Who they will pick: Malcolm Jenkins CB/S

Jenkins is the best secondary player in the draft and the Saints need help very badly in this area.

.

Pick #15 Houston Texans
Who they should pick: Chris "Beanie" Wells RB

The NFL is now a two back league and Beanie would complement Steve Slaton nicely.
Who they will pick: Everette Brown DE

The Texans want a pass rusher on the opposite side of Mario Williams. Brown is a safe pick here.

.

Pick #16 San Diego Chargers
Who they should pick: Chris "Beanie" Wells RB

Again another team passes on Beanie Wells. Whoops

Who they will pick: Ray Maualuga LB

This is a very good pick for the chargers. Maualuga was the best LB in college football last year and I can't wait to see him and Shawn Merriman together

Pick #17 New York Jets
Who they should pick: Brett Favre

Oh wait, they tried this? Oh well nevermind then.
Who they will pick: Josh Freeman QB

The Jets get the last remaining Quarterback that has first round talent. In 3 years Freeman will be playing for someone else.

Pick #18 Denver Broncos (from Chicago Bears)
Who they should pick: Greg Bach

This is Josh McDaniels' first head coaching job and he is a youngin'. Bach is the writer of Coaching Football for Dummies and should give McDaniels lots of tips on how to be a head coach.
Who they will pick: Chris "Beanie" Wells RB

Wells is the perfect fit for Denver's rushing attack. The Zone blocking will allow him to pick his holes and with Shanahan out of the picture the Broncos finally have a Fantasy Runningback worth drafting

Pick #19 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Who they should pick: Somalian Pirates

The Buc's need to be fiercer, meaner, angrier. They would really learn a lot from real life buccaneers and this can only be beneficial.
Who they will pick: Brian Cushing LB

Cushing is a very nice LB with a high football IQ. Also, he likes to paint his eye black which is always cool.

Pick #20 Detroit Lions (from Dallas Cowboys)
Who they should pick: Dorothy from Wizard of Oz

Dorothy taught the cowardly lion that he can be brave. This Lions team could use the same treatment.
Who they will pick: Clay Matthews LB

Matthews came out of no where and benefited by playing in the USC system. He is a very underrated player and the Lions will like their first round selections

Pick #21 Philadelphia Eagles
Who they should pick: Knowshon Moreno RB

They need another runningback. Now.
Who they will pick: Knowshon Moreno RB

And they get a very good one.

Pick #22 Minnesota Vikings
Who they should pick: Mark Sanchez QB

You know why.
Who they will pick: Hakeem Nicks WR

Since the Vikes aren't going to trade up and I don't like Josh Freeman at all; they select Hakeem Nicks. He can do this.

Pick #23 New England Patriots
Who they should pick: Someone that when they pick them everyone says "Bill Belichek will find a spot for him"

They probably will pick someone like this so no worries.
Who they will pick: Vonte Davis CB

Vonte helps out the Patriots secondary because Troy Brown retired

Pick #24 Atlanta Falcons
Who they should pick: Who ever ratted Mike Vick out

Arthur Blank should shake this person's hand. While at the time it seemed like that this would be the end of the franchise as we knew it, a guy named Matty Ice came along and saved the day, along with the franchise
Who they will pick: Peria Jerry DT

Since the dirty birds traded for Tony Gonzalez, they no longer need an offensive threat. Jerry is the pick here to bolster their D-line.

Pick #25 Miami Dolphins
Who they should pick: Ray Finkle K

All he needed was the laces out. He would have made that kick. Damn you Dan Marino.
Who they will pick: Darrius Heyward-Bey WR

The phins need some speed and more offensive weapons. Heyward-Bey would be a nice late in the round pick.

Pick #26 Baltimore Ravens
Who they should pick: Virtu Studios

Virtu Studios is a world renowned Spa and Salon. They just opened up a studio in the DC area. Joe Flacco, are you listening?
Who they will pick: Percy Harvin WR

Speed + Weed = NFL pick

Pick #27 Indianapolis Colts
Who they should pick: Sue Naegle

Naegle is a top agent for United Talent Agency. With all of the commericals that Peyton Manning is in, he needs the best agent to keep up. Sue will do just fine.

Who they will pick: Kenny Britt WR

Britt is tall and has good hands. He will be a nice replacement for Marvin Harrison.

Pick #28 Buffalo Bills (from Carolina Panthers through Philadelphia Eagles)
Who they should pick: Doug Flutie QB

With the upset of the draft, the Bills should take chosen native son Doug Flutie. Him and TO will get along great.
Who they will pick: Eben Britton OT

Bills need O-line help after the Peters trade. Britton is an Offensive linemen so it all works out in the end.

Pick #29 New York Giants
Who they should pick: Larry English DE/LB

English would be a steal here. To bad he doesn't steal. Or shoot guns.
Who they will pick: Brandon Pettigrew TE

The Giants need a playmaker over the middle now that they lost Amani Toomer and Chedder Plax. Pettigrew is a steal.

Pick #30 Tennessee Titans
Who they should pick: Kyra Sedgwick

She plays Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson on TNT's show "The Closer". I bet she could get Vince Young to spill the beans.
Who they will pick: Robert Ayers DE

Ayers had one good year at the University of Tennessee, maybe he will have more good years in Tennessee. We will see

Pick #31 Arizona Cardinals
Who they should pick: Rod Tidwell WR

Tidwell would look really nice next to Larry Fitzgerald. Also, now that Fitz is on the cover of Madden, it's not a bad idea to draft a WR
Who they will pick: Donald Brown RB

The Cards need a runningback to sholder the load because Tim Hightower is more of a goaline back. Brown proved he can receive a lot of carries and still be ok.

Pick #32 Pittsburgh Steelers
Who they should pick: Kevin Ellison S

Troy Polumalo is also on the cover of Madden this upcomming year. The Steelers should cut their losses now and slect another saftey out of USC.
Who they will pick: Larry English DE/LB

English is the sleeper of the first round and he goes to the best team. That's not too fair now is it. New England should have drafted Enlgish and found a spot for him.

Who would you rather...

Have you ever heard of the game that you can play with your friends, the one where you ask, "would you rather be invisible or be able to fly?" (obviously invisibility is the way to go here) Or you can turn it into the game that I play with people is "Who would you rather do?" (A girl with no legs but has a C cup and a hot face or a normal looking girl but she has ADHD and gets bored easily? Tough choice...)If I were to play that game with the two most attractive NFL Quarterback prospects (Matthew Stafford and Mark Sanchez) It wouldn't take me long to come up with my answer.

Before I tell you who I would pick, lets break down both players:

Matthew Stafford

Pros:

• Strong Arm
• Experience
• Improved each season
• Played in the SEC (pro caliber defenses)
• Size (6-3 237)
  

Cons:

• Decision making

The lingering question with Stafford is if he has the "it" factor that you want to have in your number one pick. Especially if that pick is a quarterback, the face of the franchise.


Mark Sanchez

Pros:

• Vision
• Quick feet (can throw on the run)
• Strong arm
• Can make all throws
• Personality

Cons:

• Inexperience

Will NFL players let Sanchez lead in the way that he does? I don't know if I can't really see 10 year vets rallying around Mark Sanchez.

But...Sanchez has "it". He has the smile. He has the charisma. Most importantly, he has the talent. I love Mark Sanchez and I think eventually he will have the better career when you compare the two but that is why the Lions should pick Matthew Stafford. Mark Sanchez is not ready right now. He may not even be ready for next year. But when he is ready, watch out my friends. The Lions have Daunte for one year and one year only. They are not going to resign him after this reason which gives Stafford a one year learning curve. Stafford is the Number One pick (ed note: as I write this (11:33 am central time) Stafford and the Lions are in contract talks and they are "going well") and Sanchez goes too....

First round mock tomorrow. C'mon I can't give you all of the answers in one post.

You gotta be tough

I present you, "You gotta be tough": Challenges & Strategy of Female Coaches in Youth Sport...the running blog...

6:56 - Coming to you live from the HH Center for the Tucker Center for women presents...Michael A. Messner. Apparently he is a big deal.

6:57 - Just thought I would tell you that we are required to be here. Why? I don't know. Maybe it is to make the speaker feel better about himself. This place is packed and it is 70% students...

6:58 - Everyone who is anyone is here. I'm sitting behind the head of rec sports. I might ask for is autograph later.

7:02 - Late. Lets get this started, I have South Park to watch.

7:04 - Some over-achievers are getting scholarships right now. A park a recreation scholarship? You can get scholarships for that?

7:05 - "Miles has a passion for the outdoors", and it is apparent that he also has a passion for looking like an axe murderer.

7:08 - What is with women in sports and having two names? The introduction speaker's name is Mary Jo. Our head of Sport Management program is Jo Ann. Billie Jean, is not my lover.

7:10 - Joel Maturi makes an appearance. We got Tubby, We got Tubby.

7:13 - Messner has written 11 books, all about women coaching in sports. Seriously? That is what you devoted your life to?

7:15 - Yes, a powerpoint. Also we have our first fake laugh from the crowd of the night. I'm sure more are to follow.

7:16 - And I was right. Messner is owning the crowd tonight

7:20 - Three slides in and we have a scatter plot. I want to go home.

7:24 - I think he just used "pipeline"in a sentence five times. I lost count.

7:25 - I bet this girl next to me thinks that I am very weird.

7:32 - Just learned that women face scrutiny when coaching. Hmm, women know things about sports? What? Prove it.

7:34 - He just said undercutter. Reminds me of the Tom Green skit. I'm watching it in my head right now.

7:36 - haha, Tom just got chased by a guy with a hammer. Classic.

7:41 - There is NO inner circle. Messner said so.

7:44 - Just learned that women cry when they recall the experience of not being selected as a coach of their children. Man up!

7:48 - "Women do not like yelling in sports, that is why they don't coach"

7:50 - Quick scan of the auditorium... Six sleepers overall and countless other nodders. Very riveting stuff going on here.

7:51 The hot girl next to me just left so that has left me with no real reason to be here. Peace out...

Tuesday Trash: Potholes

Where do I even begin with potholes? For starters they are one of the worst hazards while driving. How many times have you been driving along, singing your favorite song at the top of your lungs when all of a sudden you feel like you just attacked by the Taliban. Your cd skips and you are left wondering what the hell just happened and if your tires are alright. Seriously, what the fuck. The only explanation I have ever received about potholes is that they form because of all of the salt and other crap that erode our roads and driving over them repeatedly is no good for them. I say that is crap. Give me more (thanks wikipedia)

If pot holes were able to talk I would like to have a conversation with one of them. Something along these lines...

Me: "Hey pothole, what's up?"

Pot Hole: "Oh not much just hanging out, I might mess up some cars later if you want to join me."

Me: "Yeah, I've been meaning to ask you about that...what is your deal man? What have I ever done to you?"

PH: "Don't take it personally, it's just what I do."

Me: "But you can change...I believe in you."

PH: "I like the way I am, actually I have been thinking about possibly getting bigger and deeper. What do you think?"

At this point is where I summon in the tar crew and cover up that jackass pot hole. Yeah how do you like them apples. Potholes do not look like they will be done away with anytime soon. Is there nothing else out there that we can make roads out of? Maybe some material that will not destroy our cars because they are faulty? Just askin'.

Just let me carve pothole, just let me carve.

Monday Montage 4:20...I mean 4/20

I'm really glad that E:60 has returned. Very underrated show.

Speaking of underrated...maybe?

Long live Vince McMahon and the WWF.

How awesome is batting stance guy?

Can you picture Greg Paulus playing in the national...football league?

Or at Big Blue?

What is wrong with the Twins starting rotation?

Are the Marlins for real?

Did anyone even know that the NHL playoffs started?...because they have.

Why does the NHL playoffs start on a Wednesday? Are they trying to gain or lose fans?

Who is excited about the new Wild regime? Anyone?

Are the defending Champs in trouble?

When will Ray Ray play well in the playoffs? He is like A-Rod. He is thinking too much about everything. He needs to just go out there and be Jesus.

Why do people think today is a holiday? Even if you do smoke weed, its not that cool to tell everyone you do.

The day before last tomorrow: in Pictures

Cheeto loves baseball


"Don't put this on your blog"


Happy Cheeto


What a cutie huh?


"Reunited and it feels so good"


Ya Twins


Kubel had an ok day


She wasn't too thrilled about this one but she did say yes


Mmmm stache


Go-Go with a stolen base...and then he slid to far. Whoops


Torii hit a bomb


Kubes. Probably got a hit in this at bat

How to be a witness

It is simple really. All you have to do is tune into ABC around 2 pm and watch. Cheeto, this means you. Ladies....Gents...sea creatures...the 2009 NBA playoffs preview

Western Conference
#1 LA Lakers vs #8 Utah Jazz
Lakers are a great team that no one is talking about. Somehow they are flying under the radar as the Cavs are stealing the spotlight. The Lakers won 65 games. 8 more games then the previous season when they were here. Andrew Bynum is playing well after surgery and is another weapon for Kobe. Its the Lake show baby. Kobe in 6 games.

#2 Denver Nuggets vs #7 NO Hornets
This is the trendy upset pick with the experts and at first I thought CP3 and the Hornets would pull it off because Melo has never performed in the playoffs. But I forgot about Chauncey. Mr. Big Shot is his nick name. Chauncey will be the one that determines the outcome of the series. If he plays well and limits Chris Paul's playmaking ability just slightly, the Nuggets will win this series. If CP3 is CP3 and the best point guard in the league and Tyson Chandler is at least 90%, Hornets win. I'm picking the Nuggs in 7 games.

#3 San Antonio Spurs vs #6 Dallas Mavericks
The Spurs are old and without Manu or "one piece of the big 3". Dallas is hot and hungry. Jason Terry coming off the bench is brilliant and gives the Spurs a taste of their own medicine. Tim Duncan looks like he is running on his last legs (how many legs does he have?) and it is sad to watch him limp up and down he court. He is one of the greats. Dallas in 6

#4 Portland Trail Blazers vs #5 Houston Rockets
In all honesty this is the series I am most looking forward to in the first round in the West. A repeat of perhaps one of the greatest regular season endings of all time (there are times when you are proud to be a crazy sports fan. seeing this ending live was one of those times). Rockets are without T-Mac but now have Crazy Ron. Yao is a big force but only in size. 20 and 10 from a 7 foot 3 inch "superstar"? Doesn't sound too effective. Portland is deep and the Rockets do not make it out of the first round again. Blazers in 7

Semi-Finals
#1 LA Lakers vs #4 Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers are the only team that has the athletes to beat the Lakers in a 7 game series. Could Kobe let that happen? No. No he won't. Lakers get pushed to the brink but prevail in 7 games.

#2 Denver Nuggets vs #6 Dallas Mavericks
There is something that I like about this Mav's team. J Kidd is getting J Kidd triple doubles and Dirk is a scoring machine. Terry gives them a much needed scorer off the bench and he is not afraid to take the big shot. Good thing because Dirk doesn't want to take it. Chauncey is good and so is Melo but Dallas is deep. I can't believe it but Dallas in 6

Conference Finals
#1 La Lakers vs #6 Dallas Mavericks
LA wins easy. Nice run Dallas. LA in 5. Kobe!

Eastern Conference
#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs #8 Detroit Pistons
Lebron sweeps. He is on a mission and Detroit has nothing to slow the LBJ roll.

#2 Boston Celtics vs #7 Chicago Bulls
KG is rumored to miss the entire playoffs now. This would be a huge step backwards for the defending champs. They still are too much for the younger Bulls team but the first playoff series for D-Rose should be a treat to watch. What a player. Champs in 5

#3 Orlando Magic vs #6 Philadelphia 76er's
The Magic are my favorite team to play with in 2k. So I am picking them to win. Dwight Howard is a beast and Skip to my Lou was a great trade in wake of the Jameer Nelson injury. Magic are good. 76er's are not as good. Magic in 6

#4 Atlanta Hawks vs #5 Miami Heat
The Hawks had a nice little battle with the eventual champs in the first round, pushing them to the limit before finally losing on the road. This year they have home court and both of these teams are good on their own court. I like the Hawks in this series because they get defend well and D-Wade cant do it all for the Heat vs a team like the Hawks. Good 7 game series but Hawks move on.

Semi-Finals
#1 Lebron vs #4 Atlanta Hawks
Like I just said, the Hawks can defend the ball. But you can't defend Lebron. Lebron in 6.

#2 Boston Celtics vs #3 Orlando Magic
Boston can still beat the Magic without the Big Ticket. Paul Pierce is a different player after last years championship run and ray ray is still Jesus. Rondo is better. Perkins is better. Big Baby is a lot better. Champs in 7

Conference Finals
#1 Lebron vs #2 Boston Celtics
You are seeing a trend when it comes to me and my take on Lebron. The guy is unreal. Trust me. Watch every game of his, even if you are not an NBA fan. Do not miss out on LBJ while we have him. Lebron in 6

NBA Finals
#1 Lebron vs #1 Kobe
The finals matchup everyone wants. Can you imagine the hype that this finals would receive? Forget Celtics/Lakers, this is Lebron/Kobe. This is two of the greatest players of all time duking it out for the title. This is Magic/Bird version 2.0, if only Kobe was five years younger. Lebron comes out on top because he is the best player on the team that plays best together. Kobe will be on Bynum during the series because Anderson Varejao will get under his skin. Cleveland is more mentally stable because of Lebrons calming demeanor and leadership ability. Lebron in 7 games.

Can't wait till next year. NBA, where amazing happens...

The Power Stache: revisited

Now I know a lot of you read the post about mustache's and how sweet they are. I know this because a lot of you have came up to me with the same question, "Are you still growing the mustache?" The answer for you, my faithful followers, is a resounding YES! You're damn right I still have this thing on my face. I'm still not sure how long I'm going to sport the 'stache. The pros are that it is obviously a chick magnet and so far the bouncers at the bars really don't check my ID (am I there too often?) Also I smashed a triple in my first intramural softball at bat (it would have been a easy homerun but I'm a team player. I wanted the person behind me to hit me in). There is only one con about having this carpet above my lip is that it's dirrty. It is truly anyone's guess how long this little guy will have a home, but for now the 'stache lives on!

My Jersey Collection: in pictures (with a few words)

A peek into my basketball jersey collection courtesy of Ebay...

This is the newest member to the collection. The "McCARTY" is my first ever WNBA jersey. Looking forward to the reactions I get while wearing it this summer.

You don't have a jersey collection if you don't have the Diesel. This from his days in Orlando when he broke backboards. Shaq-Fu was a sweet video game.

Jay Will. There is a reason why black people don't ride motorcycles.

The pride and joy of my collection. Bought this jersey after the Warriors upset Dallas in the first round of the 2007 NBA playoffs. Chances are that if you see me this summer, I will probably be wearing this jersey. Most comfortable thing I own.

Bassy is my guy so I had to buy this jersey from his Rookie year. Still trying to find a T-wolves Telfair jersey. If you know of where to get one you should tell me.

I don't really wear this jersey too often. Thought it would be cooler then it actually is. AI is still a pretty sweet player.

The first of my two KG jerseys. I bought this one after he was traded to Boston. Different but still KG.

Dan Majerle was one of my favorite players growing up. He was white and was unstoppable in NBA Live 95. Seriously.

KG will always be a Wolfie. This great jersey was from his Rookie year and I think the Wolves should have some sort of throwbacks with these.

I would wear this jersey more then the J-Rich one but it is made out of some strange spandex type material. Not a fan. Am a fan of this.

Let me see what you got...comment with a picture of your jerseys that you are proud to own.

The story behind Cheeto

I'm sure there are those of you who know Noah. There are a lot of you who know Cheeto. Maybe some former baseball players know QTP. I know a Lou Collins, and a Eric Wedge, and even a Jason Kubel...

Would you be surprised to know that all of these people are in fact a single being? It's true, I tell you no lie. Cheeto, Chester, QTP, Lou Collins, Lew Ford, Jason Kubel, Eric Wedge, Deb Deb, Dew Dew, and brother are all one single person, officially named Noah Nesler.

A lot of you have asked Noah how he has the nick name of Cheeto. At this point Noah usually turns to me and says, "Do you want to tell them?" I always say no because I was not the one to give Noah this great nick name (something that I am bitter about). But because I feel like I need to clear the air I will give you a break down on how Noah got each of his nick names...

Cheeto: We will start with the most widely known and used nick name. He was given this nick name before I knew him so I have been calling Noah, Cheeto, for our entire friendship. From what I know (through research), Noah was called Cheeto because one day after school Phil Hartman visited Noah at his house and Noah was eating Cheeto's and wearing mesh shorts (a cheeto staple). And poof, Cheeto was born and has stuck ever since. Circa 1995

N2: (Pronounced n squared) This was my attempt at giving Noah a different nick name and it did not work. I got the N2 because his name is Noah Nesler. I know pretty clever right? Circa 2000

QTP: Noah was called a "quintessential team player" in our local newspaper by our high school baseball coach junior (?) year. I shortened it to QTP so it would flow off the tongue nicely. Circa 2004

Eric Wedge, Jason Kubel, Casey Blake, Brad Wilkerson, Lew Ford, Lou Collins: All of these names have two things in common. 1) They all have to deal with baseball and 2) throughout different stages in Noah's beard cycle he looks like all of these players. Some more then others. Circa 2004

Deb Deb, Dew Dew: This one was all Tyler Rank. Deb is Noah's mom and Dewey is his father. There is also a song with this nick name. Circa 2004

Brother: Noah has a brother. They like eachother and play sports together. Circa 2005

Chester: I like to think that I was the first one to call Noah, Chester. Makes perfect sense because his "name" was Cheeto so who is the Cheeto's mascot? Chester. I call him Chester more then I do Cheeto. Just a personal preference. Circa 2005

Nodie Bodie: This one Deb made up for cutsey wootsy Noah when he was a little baby. Somehow we all got word of it and used this nick name to upset Noah. This is his favorite nick name that anyone has ever given him so you should call him it. Circa 2005 (recommended by Tyler Rank)

Nicky P: I started calling him Nicky P during our inaugural Midway Spades season. Noah played short stop for the team and was number 8. It was almost too easy. Circa 2007

Relationship Noah: This is a recent one that Chase and I came up with after Noah gets into a relationship with a lady. You see there is Cheeto, and then there is Relationship Noah. He pretends that he doesn't know what we are talking about. Circa 2009

There you have it, a look into why Noah Nesler is a man of many names. If I missed one please let me know. Enjoy the weather and lets hope Scotty B has a good start tonight.

U of M: In pictures

Tuesday Trash: Drivers on Highway 52

You know who you are. The ones that sit in the fast lane going the speed limit while I am behind you going crazy because you wont get over into the right lane. Oh, really? You are on the phone now? Is that why you don't see me behind you? Is this phone call really that important that you can't get over into the other lane and not cause accidents?

A word of advice to these people...use your rear view mirror. That's all you need to do, trust me it works. You can then see if anyone is behind you. It's amazing I know! And then once you get really good at looking in your rear view mirror you can move up to using your side mirrors. Oh, how much fun will that be! Just imagine, a brand new driving world with mirrors...I suppose all of that would be wishful thinking as we will always encounter our share of bad drivers and I'm sure I have done a few dumb things while driving. But nothing compares to what I experienced on Easter Sunday between approximately 7 and 8 pm.

First I want to have the disclaimer that not all women are bad drivers, but there are definitely those out there that ruin it for the good women drivers. I encountered one such terrible female driver and it was nothing like I have ever seen before. Let me set up the scene for you, A type of driver that I mentioned above was in front of me in the left lane going 68 or so, something like that. We were going fast enough to pass cars but it would take awhile, I think you get the picture. Well this college aged woman was behind me and apparently have places to be. Now, there was a reason why I stayed in the left lane even though I was not going as fast as I wish I could have. Even if I wanted to turn into the right lane and try to pass the car that way I couldn't because the car in the right lane was going just slow enough to not allow me to get back into the left lane while passing the car pissing me off.

Still with me? Good.

So this girl tried to do what I told you I couldn't do and remember, she was behind me to start with so there was no way she could pass two cars. She didn't do this once, not twice, not tree times, try seven. It was amazing. It was like she was a test mouse that just couldn't figure out the maze. She repeatedly tried to do something that was impossible to do. And because she was so erratic, cars behind me had to swerve off of the road to avoid behind hit. I can't make this up folks.

Monday Montage: April 13th Edition

After a good sporting weekend, I present you the montage for this Monday, April 13th...

Why do the Twins always score 10+ runs in the first game of the series vs the White Sox and then forget to score runs in the rest of series?

When will Francisco Liriano remember that games in April still count towards the rest of the season?

Why can't the Twins figure out Mark Buehrle?

How fun is it to watch Tiger on a Sunday?

Will the Nationals win a game this year? (sidenote: picked them over the Phills in the streak today. I'm feeling lucky) (update: damn)

Has Phil lost weight?

Has there ever been a less dramatic ending to a sudden death playoff situation like the ending we saw at the Masters on Sunday?

I can't wait until it is sundress and basketball jersey weather...only 20 degrees to go.

How many flavors of Doritos are there in the world?

How many bombs will I hit today in our intramural softball game?

Why is the Rothbury lineup's average age 70 years old?

Will I ever graduate college?

How many questions can I ask in a single blog post?

12...thats how many.

R.I.P. Great Grandma. You will be missed

Happy Easter

Happy Easter errbody. Hope you all spend time with family and friends. Be thankful for what you have and live life to the fullest