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Wednesday, November 30, 2011
This Texas Town Is Building A $40M Bus Barn, To Go With Its $60M Football Stadium*
The same board that approved a $60 million high school football stadium in Allen, Texas a few years back now intends to throw tax dollars at a $40 million industrial bus depot one block from a local elementary school, according to a group of local residents embittered over the school district's new plans.
Angry town members are expressing their issues over what they refer to as a "bus barn" through a website called stopthebarn.org.
According to the site, the bus complex is a massive 130,000 sq. ft. facility on a 42-acre lot that will provide parking for 120 buses and 200 employee and visitor vehicles. The property will also also serve as a bus maintenance center and warehouse facility.
*Tim Carroll, Director of Information for the Allen Independent School District, disputes the term "bus barn," instead calling it a bus service center. He also says the true cost of the center, which is already in an industrial part of town, is actually $31.7 million.
"This is not massive compared to other bus service centers in the country," said Carroll.
The county's current bus service center, originally built in 1976 for 6,000 students, can no longer support the district's fast-growing student population of 20,000, he pointed out.
Tim Chun is part of a group of local residents trying to stop the Allen ISD board from moving forward with the new site. But according to Chun, backdoor discussions suggest the site is "already a done deal," despite valid concerns of some homeowners.
According to Stop the Barn!, the Allen ISD board claims the consolidated facility will save $140,000/year. But residents argue this would be at the hefty cost of $87 million — $40 million in initial costs plus an additional $47 million in destroyed property values. There are also majors concerns about increased traffic and pollution dangers from hundreds of diesel buses.
Chun refers to a 2011 report from the Environmental Protection Agency, which notes that centers located within half a mile of distribution centers and bus terminals (facilities with more tha 100 buses/day) are at greater risk of air pollution.
Although a petition with more than 1,300 signatures is making the rounds, complaints have mostly fallen on deaf ears, says Chun.
In an email, Chun said the Allen ISD board has been unresponsive to the idea of retrofitting existing sites at considerably less cost. The board's inability to manage the town's budget has also resulted in teacher lay-offs and increased property taxes, he said.
Details of the proposed site as envisioned by Stop the Barn! are below. The group has labeled sections which it says violates city zoning regulations. (Click for larger size):
Don't Miss: 10 Giant High School Stadiums That Were Bought With Tax Dollars >
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- A Central Texas Town Could Run Out Of Water In 8 Days
- An Explosion Just Ripped Through NuStar's San Antonio Refinery
- WARNING: Stay Off The Roads In Manhattan
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Michigan State?s Defense is Nation?s 3rd Best; Only LSU and Alabama Higher
Michigan State has a defensive unit ranked No. 3 nationally in total defense, allowing 257.3 yards per game. Only two teams have topped 400 yards of total offense against defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi?s unit. Just the LSU Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide are better than State at stopping their opponents. Of course, those two SEC [...]
Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis
B1G Championship Preview: Wisconsin Badgers to Rely on Potent Offense
Saturday’s match-up between the #13 Michigan State Spartans and #15 Wisconsin Badgers is not only the rematch for one of college football’s most dramatic endings this season, it’s also the deciding factor in which team takes home the Big Ten Title and represents the conference in the Rose Bowl. If [...]
Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis
2011 Bowl Predictions: Teams to Expect in Every Matchup
The 2011 college football season is just about over, but there's still a good indication of who is going bowling in late December or early January.
Bowl season is what teams prep for all year, and while some had no trouble reaching six wins, others barely squeaked by.
It's been a whirlwind season filled with huge upsets, epic comebacks and crazy finishes, and we shouldn't expect anything less than chaos during postseason play.
As fans, we hope for a playoff one day, but we'll settle for the 35 bowl games.
With that said, here are my predictions of where teams will play and who will win.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/962381-bowl-games-2011-predictions-for-every-matchup
John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan
NBA Trade Rumors: Shocking Players on the Trade Block
With teams allowed to talk to free agents today, we can go from "speculation" to "rumor," as there are actual agents talking to actual teams. This means that there are actual things to talk about. So far, two names have come up in trade talks that weren't expected.
The first name that comes up falls under the Boston Celtics, who have put out Rajon Rondo in an effort to obtain the New Orleans Hornets' star point guard Chris Paul.
While initial reports are that New Orleans isn't interested, the fact that an All-Star name comes out this early is surprising.
It probably won't happen, regardless. Chris Paul isn't likely to sign with the Boston Celtics, who essentially—as an entire team—are in the final year of their contract. Paul is going to want to play for a contender and Boston is not likely to fill that role next year.
One does wonder what this is going to do with Rondo's self-esteem, though. He had a veritable mental collapse after President Obama made a crack about his shooting. This overture to Chris Paul tells Rondo that the Celtics don't trust him with the future of the franchise.
The other name on the trade market is the New Jersey Nets' Brook Lopez, who reportedly has been offered—in conjunction with two first-round draft picks—for Dwight Howard. In the "let the bidding begin" auction for Howard, that's a pretty high first bid that leaves a lot of teams off the table.
Many have left it a foregone conclusion that Howard would be headed for the Los Angeles Lakers, who would allegedly be offering some combination of Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum. While the immediate impact of the Lakers' speculated offer would keep the Magic in the playoff hunt, there's little question that, long term, the Nets' offer would be more attractive.
The other thing the Nets are offering is cap relief for the Magic in taking Hedo Turkoglu's big contract off the table. With the buyout of Arenas, and not having Turkoglu's or Howard's contract on the books, the Magic would suddenly be a player in the free agent market.
With both cases, it's not likely to be the final deal. However, in both cases, it certainly says that Paul and Howard will not be moved cheaply. Teams are willing to put together major offers to acquire the players. What Boston has offered beats what the Knicks have to offer for Paul, and what the Nets have to offer beats what the Lakers can offer the Magic.
From here, the offers only get better for New Orleans and Orlando. The bidding has begun!
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/962502-nba-trade-rumors-shocking-players-on-the-trade-block
San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo Andrew Brackman
Even Oklahoma State?s Football Coach Doesn?t Believe His Cowboys Should Play In The Championship Game Over Alabama
Regardless of what happens this championship weekend, LSU and Alabama are destined for a rematch in the BCS National Championship game.
The team with the best chance of somehow surpassing either SEC school for one of the final two spots is the Big 12’s Oklahoma State Cowboys.
But not even their very own head coach, Mike Gundy, believes his third-ranked Cowboys deserve to move ahead of the Crimson Tide in the rankings.
“If somebody sat me down and said (I) had to make a decision, with where we’re at right now, Alabama lost to what would be the No. 1 team in the country, and Oklahoma State lost to Iowa State,” Grundy told the Daily Oklahoman. “In our situation, if I was doing it fair, I don’t know how I could put us in front of (Alabama) right now.”
The man has spoken. And when we say man, we mean someone over the age of 40.
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See Also:
- LSU-Alabama Will Play In The BCS Title Game, No Matter What Happens This Week
- These Are The Five Teams Still On The Hunt For The BCS Championship
- Here's The List Of College Football Coaches Fired Now That The Regular Season Is Over
Phil Hughes Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller
WATCH: A Giants Safety Nailed A Defenseless Saints Player With A Brutal Cheap Shot
Things got ugly in the Saints' blowout win over the Giants last night when New Orleans tight end Jimmy Graham got absolutely leveled by Kenny Phillips.
The helmet-to-helmet hit drew flags from all over the place, and a little pushing and shoving broke out.
Phillips looked apologetic after the play. But still, that's the sort of vicious head-hunting that can you get a hefty fine from the league.
Here's the video (via Big Lead Sports):
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- The New York Giants Got Mauled Again Last Night, And Now They Need An Epic Turnaround To Save Their Season
- 10 Huge NFL Stories That No One Is Talking About Right Now
- SPORTS CHART OF THE DAY: The Broncos Are A Better Team Under Tim Tebow
San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo Andrew Brackman A.J. Burnett
Syracuse Chancellor Gives Jim Boeheim Vote of Confidence
Syracuse Orange Coach Jim Boeheim has been pretty quiet on the child molestation charges against his now fired right man of multiple decades Bernie Fine. On Sunday he backed off a little from the acrimonious comments he initially made against Fine’s accusers. On Monday he said nothing at all, and probably realizes that in this [...]
Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/college-bball/syracuse-chancellor-gives-jim-boeheim-vote-of-confidence/
Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Top 10 Female Sportscasters: Bonnie Bernstein, Hannah Storm Etc.
As with breaking into any male-dominated field, women who’ve aspired to become sportscasters have been forced to endure sexism, chauvinism, and a glass ceiling that has prevented many of them from reaching their full potential. Even still, they’ve come a long way in a relatively short period of time, as this generation has been the [...]
Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn Andrew McDonald Matt Martin Frans Nielsen Dwayne Roloson
Jacksonville Jaguars Fire Coach Jack Del Rio
Jack Del Rio may be one of the best dressed coaches in any sport. (Especially the leather coat in winter- that look rocks) However, it’s just not enough to save his job, as the Jacksonville Jaguars canned him like a tuna today. If June-September is “shirtless driving season” then this seems to be “coach firing [...]
Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/nfl/jacksonville-jaguars-fire-coach-jack-del-rio/
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The First Place Team
It is easy to imagine that the current first place team might hold onto their lead for a while. They are the Pittsburgh Penguins. They have a 14-10 record with four regulation tie points. Their +18 goal differential places them second best in the league. This record may not be a dominant one, but the impressive part of it is that most of the season so far has been played without their best player Sidney Crosby.
Crosby has only played four games so far, but he has posted a ridiculous nine points and a +7 +/- rating. Those are dominant numbers. He is eclipsing his past scoring rates. It is reasonable to suggest that Crosby won?t keep up that point per game rate over a full season but will likely still have the best point per game rate in the league.
Crosby has only played four games so far, but he has posted a ridiculous nine points and a +7 +/- rating. Those are dominant numbers. He is eclipsing his past scoring rates. It is reasonable to suggest that Crosby won?t keep up that point per game rate over a full season but will likely still have the best point per game rate in the league.
Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/psh/comments/the_first_place_team2/
Anaheim Ducks Dallas Los Angeles Kings Phoenix Coyotes San Jose Sharks New Jersey Devil
Philadephia Eagles: 5 Greatest Rookie Performances in Franchise History
Is Andy Reid coming back next year?
It's the only question Eagles fans have with five games remaining in the most disappointing, underwhelming, underachieving and pathetic season in recent memory and possibly in franchise history.
The thought of Reid coaching next year is causing some of the toughest, meanest and downright nastiest fans to act like frightened children.
The scariest part of Reid returning next year is he would be responsible for making a high-end first-round draft pick.
He's struck gold with players such as LeSean McCoy and DeSean Jackson. Unfortunately, he's struck out far more often with players such as Curtis Marsh, Casey Matthews, Sean Considine and Billy McMullen.
If Reid somehow weasels his way back into town or if Joe Banner and Jeffrey Lurie bring in someone new let's hope one of the draft picks provides an immediate pick like the five players on this list.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/959999-5-greatest-rookie-performances-in-eagles-history
Pikka Rinne Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus
Camerawoman Faints at Urban Meyer Presser; Ohio St. Media Does Nothing (Video)
There’s a new coach in Columbus. When the Ohio State Buckeyes introduced their new college football coach yesterday, One camera woman took a spill at the Urban Meyer introductory� press conference yesterday. She’s OK though so we can laugh at this. Watch video after the jump Camera Lady Passes out at Urban Meyer Press Conference [...]
Brett Pill Pat Burrell Jhan Marinez Anibal Sanchez John Baker Brad Davis
Fire Ruff & Regier?
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN answers some rants from the fans? The Sabres need to fire Lindy Ruff and Darcy Regier, especially Regier as he?s the worst GM in hockey and constantly flops at the trade deadline with his terrible trades, even since Pegula bought the Sabres and brought money with him, he managed to waste it on Ville Leino and Christian Ehrhoff, Darcy needs to go if the Sabres want to win the cup.
My take (LeBrun): Deep breaths, sir, deep breaths. If you had to fire all the GMs that had interest in Leino and Ehrhoff this past summer, there would be a long list of GMs out of work today. Leino has struggled the most, and it?s important to know it?s the first time he?s ever made big money in the NHL and I think that can weight on a player. But his past record shows he can play clutch minutes (see the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs and finals with the Flyers). I don?t think firing the longest-tenured coach or his GM would solve anything. And I don?t see it happening, either.
more rants addressed?
My take (LeBrun): Deep breaths, sir, deep breaths. If you had to fire all the GMs that had interest in Leino and Ehrhoff this past summer, there would be a long list of GMs out of work today. Leino has struggled the most, and it?s important to know it?s the first time he?s ever made big money in the NHL and I think that can weight on a player. But his past record shows he can play clutch minutes (see the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs and finals with the Flyers). I don?t think firing the longest-tenured coach or his GM would solve anything. And I don?t see it happening, either.
more rants addressed?
Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/fire_ruff_regier/
Mike Stanton Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert Bruno Gervais
Too Much Dump And Chase Hockey?
from Adrian Dater of All Things Avs, Well, that was three hours you and I will never get back. What a terrible hockey game tonight at the Pepsi Center, in front of the lowest crowd of the season (12,015). Just awful.
The NHL is starting to turn into a dump-and-chase league too much again, but teams like the Avs and Stars exacerbate the problem. Don?t be fooled by the relatively high shot count for both teams ? most of them were no-hopers fired from way out.
The Avs appeared to have no discernible plan or system tonight, other than ?Flip the puck into the neutral zone, hope it bounces onto one of our guys? sticks and maybe get a shot from there.?
continued
The NHL is starting to turn into a dump-and-chase league too much again, but teams like the Avs and Stars exacerbate the problem. Don?t be fooled by the relatively high shot count for both teams ? most of them were no-hopers fired from way out.
The Avs appeared to have no discernible plan or system tonight, other than ?Flip the puck into the neutral zone, hope it bounces onto one of our guys? sticks and maybe get a shot from there.?
continued
Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/too_much_dump_and_chase_hockey/
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NFL Power Rankings Week 13: Looking at the Latest Playoff Picture
We are bound to see more shuffling in the NFL playoff race in the last month of the season, but some of the premier teams are starting to make their mark atop each conference postseason picture.
Let's take a look what the playoffs would like if the season ended today.
Can all these teams hold their current positions?
NFC
1. Green Bay Packers (11-0)
The Packers are still rolling, and 16-0 is a distinct possibility.
They travel to face a struggling Giants team this week, and three of their last four are at home, with the only road game in Kansas City. Start etching Aaron Rodgers' name into that MVP trophy.
2. San Francisco 49ers (9-2)
Because they have a solid defense, I totally expect the 49ers to return to form during the last five games of the season.
It'll help that four of their last five are against the NFC West. A game against the Steelers on December 19 on Monday Night Football could determine the No. 2 seed.
3. New Orleans Saints (8-3)
What did I tell you about the Saints at home in prime time? No one better.
Drew Brees should get MVP consideration because of the efficiency in which he directs his offense. The defense isn't stellar, but certainly good enough.
4. Dallas Cowboys (7-4)
The Cowboys are getting hot precisely when the Giants have lost three straight. With a game lead in the division, things are looking skyward for Dallas, but they face their rivals from the Big Apple twice in the final five weeks.
5. Chicago Bears (7-4)
A road loss to an AFC team wasn't horrible for the Bears. They hold the tiebreaker over the Falcons and their next three are against the Chiefs, Broncos and Seahawks.
Can Caleb Hanie improve? He must play better than he did last week if Chicago wants to stay put in the NFC playoff picture.
6. Atlanta Falcons (7-4)
This is the Falcons team I thought we'd see all season. Balance on offense, ferocious run defense and the occasional sack.
They've won five of their last six and consecutive road games at Houston and Carolina aren't as threatening as they seemed earlier in the year.
They'll need to hold off Matt Stafford and the Lions, a team they beat in Week 7.
AFC
1. Houston Texans (8-3)
Welcome to the T.J. Yates era in Houston. The Texans should make the postseason, but they were in prime position to lock up home field and do some major damage in the playoffs before the injury to Matt Schaub.
With games against the Panthers and Colts remaining, at worst, they should get to 10 wins.
2. New England Patriots (8-3)
New England is getting hot at the perfect time. They struggled during the middle of the season, and although their defense is still "ranked" near the bottom of the league, it is improving.
Tom Brady is nearing Aaron Rodgers' level in terms of the surgical way in which to lead an offense. It's very possible the Patriots enter the postseason on an eight-game winning streak.
3. Baltimore Ravens (8-3)
They'll battle the Steelers for the AFC North crown, but they don't have to worry about the playoffs—they'll be in.
I'd still like to see more consistency from Joe Flacco, and with two games against the Browns and one against Indianapolis, at worst, they should get to 11 wins.
4. Oakland Raiders (7-4)
The boom-or-bust, true dark horse in the AFC playoffs. I know the Broncos are the talk of the AFC West right now because of Tim Tebow, but with Oakland's running game, Carson Palmer and the speedy wide receivers, they're a team I wouldn't want to play.
They should get to, at the very least, nine wins, which should be enough to capture the division title.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3)
The Steelers were stymied offensively against the Chiefs, but they were still able to pick up a crucial road win in prime time.
They should be fine, because Ben Roethlisberger has shown the ability to improvise regardless of the situation.
Two games against the Browns and the Rams should get them to 11 wins. Can they finish ahead of the Ravens to win the AFC North? It'll be tough.
6. Cincinnati Bengals (7-4)
Another second-half comeback for Andy Dalton and the Bengals. The Cincinnati quarterback is my Rookie of the Year.
The defense gains strength as the game progresses, and Cedric Benson looks to be back to form. Their remaining schedule isn't easy, with games against the Steelers, Texans and Ravens. Unless they go 2-3 down the stretch, they should be in.
Week 13 NFL Power Rankings
1. Green Bay Packers
2. Baltimore Ravens
3. New Orleans Saints
4. San Francisco 49ers
5. New England Patriots
6. Pittsburgh Steelers
7. Houston Texans
8. Dallas Cowboys
9. Oakland Raiders
10. Cincinnati Bengals
11. Atlanta Falcons
12. Chicago Bears
13. Detroit Lions
14. New York Giants
15. New York Jets
16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
17. Denver Broncos
18. Miami Dolphins
19. Seattle Seahawks
20. Buffalo Bills
21. Tennessee Titans
22. Kansas City Chiefs
23. Arizona Cardinals
24. San Diego Chargers
25. Jacksonville Jaguars
26. Philadelphia Eagles
27. Minnesota Vikings
28. Washington Redskins
29. Carolina Panthers
30. Cleveland Browns
31. St. Louis Rams
32. Indianapolis Colts
Tampa Bay Rays Texas Rangers Toronto Blue Jays chicago blackhawks columbus blue jackets detroit red wings
7 Most Overrated San Francisco 49ers of 2011
The San Francisco 49ers have a 9-2 record and are one victory away from clinching their division. Nobody in their wildest dreams would have predicted this level of success so soon in Jim Harbaugh's tenure as head coach of this team. What he has been able to accomplish in his first year has been amazing.
As we dare look ahead to the playoffs, the 49ers have some players that will need to step forward if they hope to make a run in the postseason. The 49ers have been doing great and for that to continue into the playoffs, these players will need to produce positive results.
There are some players who are overrated and have not fully played up to their capabilities. These underachieving 49ers have high expectations placed on them, which is the definition of overrated.
Let's take a look at some of the 49ers who can be considered overrated, based on their play this season.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/960625-7-most-overrated-san-francisco-49ers-of-2011
Toronto Blue Jays chicago blackhawks columbus blue jackets detroit red wings nashville predators St Louis Blues
Despite Several Last-Minute Concessions, Owners Still Crushed Players In The NBA Lockout Settlement
Five months.
That’s how long it took NBA players and owners to finally reach a settlement on an NBA season.
Or, in other words, that’s how long it took players to reach the realization that they were going to lose a lot of money and a lot of contractual freedoms – and it wasn’t worth risking more game checks to dispute that inevitability.
The owners won. Big.
But players can walk away from the 25th and final negotiating session believing they were able to win some much-needed, last-second concessions. In truth, owners did relinquish several system issues and softened their BRI stance.
The New York Times’ Howard Beck and Chris Sheridan of SheridanHoops.com do a great job of breaking down the details:
- Players and owners settled on a financial split where players earn between 49 and 51 percent of NBA revenue depending on league growth. Owners did make a noteworthy concession to give players a more realistic chance to earn 51 percent than in its previous offer.
- The league agreed to a $4 million cushion for teams near the luxury-tax threshold to use the full midlevel exception or acquire players via sign-and-trade. So a team $1 million under the tax threshold can still sign a player to the full $5 million exception. Owners had previously refused to allow teams to go a single dollar over the cap.
- The “Melo Rule” was dropped. Owners relinquished their insistence to ban extend-and-trade deals like the option used by Carmelo Anthony in his demand for a trade to New York and an extension to secure a max contract. This opportunity gives star players the continued leverage to play where they want. This could make the 2011-12 season worrisome for fans of the Orlando Magic, New Orleans Hornets and New Jersey Nets, as Dwight Howard, Chris Paul and Deron Williams will all have the option to impose Melo-like demands on their current teams for a three-year extension and subsequent trade.
- The “Derrick Rose Rule” was introduced. This allows “young superstars” (those with under six years of experience) an ability to earn a second contract worth 30 percent of the salary cap, up from 25 percent. A player must twice earn All-NBA honors, be voted as an All-Star Game starter twice, or earn an MVP award to qualify. Only Derrick Rose can claim this feat among players still in their first contract. But Kevin Durant may be eligible since his 2010 contract extension has not taken effect.
- Owners sought a 12 percent cut in the rookie salary scale and veteran minimum salaries, but they will remain the same.
- Qualifying offers to restricted free agents will be “significantly” improved. This comes after both sides agreed to reduce the window for a team to match another organization’s offer from seven to three days.
But make no mistake; owner’s already won the lion’s share of concessions needed to make a deal. At this point, they were merely going for the jugular.
The player’s concession of seven BRI percentage points provides owners over $3 billion more than the previous deal over the life of the 10-year contract (although either side can opt out after six years), more than making up for the owners $300 million in annual losses. Players will also have shorter contracts and smaller raises.
The NBA won their philosophical battle. “Competitive balance” has been restored, at least from an economical standpoint, as higher spending teams will be reigned in and a revised league revenue sharing plan will provide small market teams more money to spend in free agency.
By all accounts from those in attendance, Derek Fisher and Billy Hunter looked more relieved, if anything, than thrilled by the agreed upon settlement.
But here’s one group that doesn’t care about winners and losers: the fans.
As long as there’s basketball to be played, fans will be pleased.
And if players and owners want to make money over the next six years, ten years, and beyond, it’s the people paying to watch NBA basketball that matter most.
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See Also:
- NBA Players And Owners Are Reportedly Meeting Again In A Final Attempt To Save An NBA Season
- What Is So Difficult About Placing A Phone Call For Lawyers In The NBA Lockout?
- NBA Players And Owners Reach A Tentative Agreement To End The Lockout
Philadelphia Flyers Pittsburgh Penguins Boston Bruins Buffalo Sabres Montreal Canadiens Ottawa Senators
Monday, November 28, 2011
Giants vs. Saints Monday Night Football: Drew Brees Is Killing It
Jon Gruden said during the broadcast that he never wanted to play the New Orleans Saints following a bye, and it's become clear why.
The credit should be given to Sean Payton, the coaching staff and the entire team because football is a team effort, but Drew Brees is one of the main reasons why this team is so good following a loss.
We all know he can sling it, but one of Brees' best qualities is his commitment to prepare for the upcoming ball game. If this guy gets an extra week, you might as well jot down a "w" in the win/loss column for the Saints.
Better yet, you Saints' fans might as well jot that "w" on your refrigerator right now, because Brees is on fire. He has a passer rating of 138.3, 321 yards, three passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown to go along with zero interceptions.
What an impressive performance by Brees, and there's still a lot of time left in this football game. With five minutes remaining in the third quarter, you know Brees and that Saints' offense will be getting the football once again.
And as I type this, Tracy Porter forces a fumble on third down. This play will be reviewed, and whether it's overturned or not, the Saints will still be getting the football.
Time for Brees to post more gaudy stats to an already impressive night of work.
Colin Curtis Kevin Russo Curtis Granderson Nick Johnson Javier Lopez Alex Hinshaw
Alabama vs. LSU Rematch: Which Defense Has the Edge?
Alabama's 42-14 drubbing of Auburn at Jordan-Hare Stadium almost surely guaranteed that the Crimson Tide will be playing in the BCS National Championship Game.
Only the BCS would have it that a team actually benefits from not playing in their conference championship game.
While Alabama can begin their preparations for Jan. 3 this weekend, their undefeated SEC West superiors, LSU, must still play a Georgia Team that's won 10 games in a row.
Even if the Tigers stumble this weekend, though, they are likely headed to New Orleans for a date with the Tide in the national title game.
If Oklahoma State thoroughly dominates Oklahoma this weekend, there is a small chance that they will jump Alabama in the BCS rankings—or possibly LSU, if they lose to Georgia. But in all likelihood, it won't happen.
Harris and USA Today Poll voters have more respect for the SEC than any other conference. And rightly so, with the conference producing the last five national champions.
So even if the Cowboys blow out the Sooners this weekend, it probably won't matter.
With that in mind, it's time to face reality: The rematch is upon us.
The main reason these two teams are here is the strength of their defenses. Both are replete with NFL talent, but which unit is better?
The Tide hold the advantage in many of the major defensive categories, leading the nation in average passing yards allowed per game (116.3), rushing yards allowed per game (74.9), points allowed per game (8.8) and total yards allowed (191.3).
But much of that is due to the fact that Nick Saban's squad have benefited from an easier schedule. Besides, the Tigers are not far behind in most of those categories and they do hold the lead in another important statistic: turnover margin (plus-19).
In order to decide which group is better, the defensive lines, linebackers and secondaries need to be isolated. Here I will compare each group.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/959459-alabama-vs-lsu-rematch-which-defense-has-the-edge
Pittsburgh Pirates San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo
European Soccer Fans Set An Opponent's Stadium On Fire Because Their Team Lost
Sporting lost 1-0 to Benfica this weekend.
Benfica fans left the Estadio da Luz content with their team’s victory. A group of Sporting fans reacted quite differently.
Naturally, in response to a tough loss, angry fans set fire to their stadium section. And they didn’t do it half-heartedly.
Firefighters were sent in to stop the blaze from spreading across the stadium.
We always knew football fans were crazy. But this is a next-level type of reaction.
It’s safe to say opposing fans of Sporting will want to practice their stop, drop and roll technique before attending future matches.
(video via Larry Brown Sports via Dirty Tackle)
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See Also:
- The First-Ever Transgendered Player In The World Cup Led American Samoa To Its First International Soccer Win
- Watch A Real Madrid Player Score On A Nifty Little Chip Shot In The Champions League
- Is This Inception-Inspired Trailer For An MLS Team's New Uniforms Supposed To Be A Joke?
Pikka Rinne Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus
Tony Stewart's Winning Crew Chief Replaced by Steve Addington
Effective immediately, Steve Addington has been named as the crew chief for three-time NASCAR Cup champion Tony Stewart. Darian Grubb, the crew chief who guided Stewart to a championship, looks to be moving on from Stewart-Haas Racing.
Addington, a South Carolina native, is only the third crew chief Stewart has had during his 13-year career in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
Addington spent 15 seasons with success in the NASCAR Nationwide Series before moving up to the Cup series.
Stewart said, "I know Steve well and I know how he goes about setting up a racecar. My comfort level with him is already strong. He balances the technical part of our sport with the real-world experiences that we get at the track, and that will allow for a smooth transition as we prepare to defend our title in 2012."
Stewart worked with Addington from 2005 to 2008 when he was driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, though he was not his crew chief.
Addington added, "Tony and I are a lot alike and we're able to push each other. He expects a lot and he knows a lot.
Addington continued, "His talent behind the wheel is obvious, but his ability to motivate and get everyone to believe that whatever goal they set is attainable is something every crew chief wants, and I plan to make the most of it."
Stewart's new crew chief has shown he can deal with all types of personalities, including the highly competitive ones like Kyle Busch and Kurt Busch. He has been able to steer both drivers to victory.
Addington has also shown the ability to put a winning car on any type of track from the super speedways to short tracks.
Stewart had told Grubb he would be replaced as crew chief nearly six weeks prior to the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, where he won the NASCAR Sprint Cup championship.
Stewart spoke well of his former crew chief, saying, "Darian was a very important part of the success we've had at Stewart-Haas Racing. He's a great person, and I know he'll continue to be successful in this sport."
Toronto Maple Leafs Atlanta Trashers Carolina Hurricanes Florida Panthers Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Michigan State (10-2) Beats Northwestern in Game they Didn?t Need
By beating Northwestern today 31-17, Michigan State achieved…well they actually achieved all the big important stuff before arriving in Evanston, IL. Last week, they secured a berth to the inaugural Big Ten championship game in Indianapolis. And since beating the Wisconsin/Penn State winner (probably Wisconsin) is their one and only path to the BCS, this [...]
Logan Morrison Mike Stanton Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert
Devils denied game-tying goal due to Toronto review
The New Jersey Devils lost 3-2 to the New York Islanders today because Devils captain Zach Parise?s last-second, game-tying goal was waved off by the NHL?s ?situation room? in Toronto, overruling the on-the-ice awarding of the goal:
From the NHL?s ?situation room? blog:
At 19:59 of the third period in the Devils/Islanders game, video review used the overhead angle and the side camera to determine that Devils forward Zach Parise used his right skate to propel the puck into the net. According to rule 49.2 ?A goal cannot be scored by an attacking player who uses a distinct kicking motion to propel the puck into the net?. No Goal New Jersey.
Parise had this to say to the Bergen Record?s Tom Gulitti...
Parise on ruling: ?I just watched it, but I?m sorry because I can?t agree with it.?
...
Parise: ?I knew it hit off my skate. I knew it hit off my stick too, but if that?s a kicking motion, then I don?t know.?
And his coach backed the captain up:
DeBoer: ?I wouldn?t consider what I saw a distinct kicking motion, but I don?t get to make those decisions.?
...
DeBoer on Parise: ??He deserves one and sure it would have been a big boost, but this league doesn?t afford you the time to feel sorry for yourself.?
From the NHL?s ?situation room? blog:
At 19:59 of the third period in the Devils/Islanders game, video review used the overhead angle and the side camera to determine that Devils forward Zach Parise used his right skate to propel the puck into the net. According to rule 49.2 ?A goal cannot be scored by an attacking player who uses a distinct kicking motion to propel the puck into the net?. No Goal New Jersey.
Parise had this to say to the Bergen Record?s Tom Gulitti...
Parise on ruling: ?I just watched it, but I?m sorry because I can?t agree with it.?
...
Parise: ?I knew it hit off my skate. I knew it hit off my stick too, but if that?s a kicking motion, then I don?t know.?
And his coach backed the captain up:
DeBoer: ?I wouldn?t consider what I saw a distinct kicking motion, but I don?t get to make those decisions.?
...
DeBoer on Parise: ??He deserves one and sure it would have been a big boost, but this league doesn?t afford you the time to feel sorry for yourself.?
Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda
2011 NBA Free Agents: Where Will the Top Players at Each Position Land?
Finally, after a long offseason, there are reports that the NBA lockout will soon be over after a tentative agreement was reached between the players and owners.
It's time to put everything in the rear-view mirror and look forward to free agency and other offseason moves that we will likely see in the coming month, because there is a slew of talent in the free-agent pool this year.
Here is a breakdown of the top free agents at each position and predictions on where they will land.
Nene (Center, Miami Heat)
The Miami Heat are missing one thing to help them get over the hump as the best team in basketball: a solid center.
The majority of the talent in this free-agent class is at center. That couldn't be better news for Miami.
Nene, Marc Gasol and Tyson Chandler are all possible options for the Heat to target in order to gain production under the basket. At this point it appears that the Heat and the Pacers will be the two teams to chase Nene.
One of these three big names is going to go to Miami. There is no way they will all pass on the chance to be a part of one of the greatest teams ever.
David West (Power Forward, New Jersey Nets)
The Nets need to go out and get some talent around Deron Williams if they plan on keeping him around after this season.
They have plenty of money and cap room to work with. West should be just one of many acquisitions they look to make.
Although there is obvious concern because he's coming off a knee injury, it's still a move that teams will still be willing to make.
Jason Richardson (Shooting Guard, Chicago Bulls)
Let's face it, Derrick Rose can not do it alone.
The young superstar needs some help on the offensive side of the ball, and Richardson can provide that help.
At 30 years old he will likely be overlooked by a bunch of teams, but that shouldn't be a concern. He has averaged 18.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.2 steals in his career.
The big number here is his 37 percent shooting beyond the arc in his career. That's something that Chicago desperately needs.
Thaddeus Young (Small Forward, Philadelphia 76ers)
The Philadelphia 76ers are tight on cap space, but they are going to find a way to keep Young on the roster.
There is no way that this 76ers team can let the 23-year-old leak into the free-agent market.
As a restricted free agent, they will get the chance to keep him around, with which they will succeed.
Young is versatile on the court and will only improve with age and experience.
J.J. Barea (Point Guard, Dallas Mavericks)
The point guard position is surely the slimmest in this free-agent market.
In fact, you have to look all the way down to (no pun intended) J.J. Barea before you see a guy that is worth mentioning.
Barea isn't a guy that is going to wow anybody with stats. What he does bring is high energy and the ability to make plays in key situations.
His play was crucial in the championship run for the Mavericks last year.
Barea fits well in Dallas. He has found a role on the team. They will likely try to keep him around if at all possible.
Frans Nielsen Dwayne Roloson Jon Sim Jason Arnott David Clarkson Patrick Davis
Canucks, Sharks on unfriendly terms
I?m a little late to the party on this one, but Comcast Sportsnet Bay Area?s Kevin Kurz reports that the San Jose Sharks aren?t exactly fans of tonight?s opponent, the Vancouver Canucks. They agree with former Boston Bruins forward Mark Recchi?s assessment of the Canucks as the NHL?s most arrogant team?
?They?ve got certain guys, and they have [Maxim] Lapierre there who is known for that,? said [Ryane] Clowe. ?He?s known to run his mouth and play that sort of game. He doesn?t really like backing that up. You have [Ryan] Kesler and [Alex] Burrows who used to do that a little bit more. Apparently the last year, and last couple of years, they?ve tried to not talk as much and just play.? Kesler has kind of turned the page a little bit, but they have some whiners and stuff over there,? said Murray.
Clowe, like [Douglas] Murray, also didn?t find it necessary to oppose Recchi?s viewpoint.
?[Recchi] said it. I?m not going to disagree with him,? said Clowe. ?I think the teams that played against them last year in the playoffs felt similar feelings.?
And while the Sharks suggested to the Mercury News?s David Pollak that their first game against their Western Conference Final opponents would involve a level of rancor commensurate with distaste for any playoff opponent, Pollak reports that the Canucks feigned ignorance regarding their perceived status:
?They?ve got certain guys, and they have [Maxim] Lapierre there who is known for that,? said [Ryane] Clowe. ?He?s known to run his mouth and play that sort of game. He doesn?t really like backing that up. You have [Ryan] Kesler and [Alex] Burrows who used to do that a little bit more. Apparently the last year, and last couple of years, they?ve tried to not talk as much and just play.? Kesler has kind of turned the page a little bit, but they have some whiners and stuff over there,? said Murray.
Clowe, like [Douglas] Murray, also didn?t find it necessary to oppose Recchi?s viewpoint.
?[Recchi] said it. I?m not going to disagree with him,? said Clowe. ?I think the teams that played against them last year in the playoffs felt similar feelings.?
And while the Sharks suggested to the Mercury News?s David Pollak that their first game against their Western Conference Final opponents would involve a level of rancor commensurate with distaste for any playoff opponent, Pollak reports that the Canucks feigned ignorance regarding their perceived status:
Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/canucks_sharks_on_unfriendly_terms/
Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan Bryan Allen
Kemba Walker Shows Everyone Where He's From In This Great Under Armour Commercial
Don’t look now but Under Armour is making some strides in the basketball market.
First they fired shots at the industry powerhouses.
Now they’re carving out a niche of their own with the series, “Are You From HERE?” The commercials focus on the company’s growing stable of young talent and pay homage to their humble beginnings.
Brandon Jennings taught us what it’s like to ball in capris on the courts of Compton, California.
And now Kemba Walker tells us what it’s like growing up in the projects on the other side of the country.
(video via Yardbarker)
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Join the conversation about this story »
See Also:
- RETURN OF THE RETRO: Uniform Designs That Need To Make A Comeback
- Metta World Peace Has Challenged Michael Jordan To A 1-On-1 Matchup To Decide The NBA Lockout
- What Is So Difficult About Placing A Phone Call For Lawyers In The NBA Lockout?
Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn
Kemba Walker Shows Everyone Where He's From In This Great Under Armour Commercial
Don’t look now but Under Armour is making some strides in the basketball market.
First they fired shots at the industry powerhouses.
Now they’re carving out a niche of their own with the series, “Are You From HERE?” The commercials focus on the company’s growing stable of young talent and pay homage to their humble beginnings.
Brandon Jennings taught us what it’s like to ball in capris on the courts of Compton, California.
And now Kemba Walker tells us what it’s like growing up in the projects on the other side of the country.
(video via Yardbarker)
Please follow Sports Page on Twitter and Facebook.
Join the conversation about this story »
See Also:
- RETURN OF THE RETRO: Uniform Designs That Need To Make A Comeback
- Metta World Peace Has Challenged Michael Jordan To A 1-On-1 Matchup To Decide The NBA Lockout
- What Is So Difficult About Placing A Phone Call For Lawyers In The NBA Lockout?
Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis Kevin Russo
Horizon League Basketball Rolls Out New Smartphone App
The college basketball league that produced the last two national runner-up teams, the Butler Bulldogs, is making a statement showing they’re at the forefront of communications technology. ?Horizon League Network Live,? the conference?s newest mobile application, is now available in the iTunes App Store. As of now, the Horizon League is the only NCAA Division [...]
Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/college-bball/horizon-league-basketball-rolls-out-new-smartphone-app/
Dustin Kohn Andrew McDonald Matt Martin Frans Nielsen Dwayne Roloson Jon Sim
Friday, November 25, 2011
Iron Bowl 2011: What Follows Will Be More Interesting Than the Game Itself
The loss Arkansas suffered at the hands of the LSU Tigers means nothing to the "big picture" scenario of the national championship game. Now only the Iron Bowl looms large, and Alabama will win.
Despite the lengthy articles on the Auburn football blogs suggesting that the Plainsmen have a reasonable chance of victory against the Tide, no educated prognosticator envisions such a scenario. The Crimson Tide will roll right in to Jordan-Hare and paint the entire landscape crimson and white.
The Auburn fanbase has been unusually quiet for the past two weeks, and it's completely understandable. There is no chance for an upset victory by the Auburn Tigers. A snowball has a greater chance of surviving hell.
Ted Roof will be the whipping boy at season end. Gene Chizik will fire the defensive coordinator as the scapegoat for the abysmal 2011 season. If the Iron Bowl is a blood bath for the Tigers, it may happen before the postseason bowl game matchups are announced.
In addition, there is a lot of talk that offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn will take one of the head coaching vacancies available on the college landscape. But after this season's drop off in Auburn's offensive production, it seems his stock is substantially lower than it was this time last year, and the offers are fewer than expected.
Malzahn may want to stay at Auburn for another season. Chizik may have more than one decision to make following their final game in one of the minor bowls.
If that holds true, Auburn will have to begin a new season with two major changes in the coaching staff in preparation for the 2012 campaign: new coordinators on both sides of the ball. God bless them.
Meanwhile, there is no talk of a disruption of business as usual at the Capstone. The Crimson Tide should remain on a roll, despite the potential player losses on offense and defense to matriculation into the NFL and society at large. 2011 will end with a championship run, for the third consecutive year.
The coaching staff will remain intact. The backups who will step into starting roles in 2012, many of whom have logged plenty of valuable time on the field this season, will step into their new roles, and Alabama will begin the season highly ranked.
This is something Alabama fans can get used to while Nick Saban is in command of the program. It's a great time to be a fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
As a fan of college football in the state of Alabama, enjoy the 2011 Iron Bowl.
Whether a fan of the Crimson Tide or the Plainsmen, know that all is business as usual.
As Alabama closes the regular season, the coaching staff prepares to rein in its sixth consecutive top-five recruiting class, taking the cream of the crop from within the state and the region.
Meanwhile, Auburn pleads to enter the Eastern Division as new alignment to the SEC is unveiled. The competition in the West is just too tough.
Know this—the Crimson Tide are without question, the pride of Alabama. Roll Tide Roll.
Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan Bryan Allen
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