I'm starting a new feature at Stiles Points called "Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"....basically, it is spotlighting a female who is often overlooked as being Super Hot like a Jessica Simpson or Biel or Alba, etc.....these are the women who are on that level or two below because they may not have as much notoriety or publicity...or in some cases, they may be a tad past their prime...basically they are a strong mid-major, like a Davidson, George Mason, etc...I encourage people to leave their comments...
Jill Wagner - The Mercury Girl
The first female to be featured is Jill Wagner....she is the hot looking female in the latest series of Mercury car commercials...she is absolutely stunning in her latest commercial with a simple black dress and high heels.....
She is 29-years-old and from Winston-Salem, N.C.....besides the Mercury commercials, she starred in "Blade: The Series" (which I never heard of).....she even appeared on "Monk" once...
My thoughts - she is definetly hot....she is classy and has that good girl image who may be a tad bad.....shoot, I never thought about buying a Mercury until she started stumping for it...she is clearly a strong mid-major - kinda like Indiana State when they had Larry Bird...so this leads to the questions:
Do you think Jill Wagner is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments!!!
Today's "Beers with Bloggers" is with the author from Signal to Noise...because he is wary about how his bosses would react to his blog, we will use the pseudonym S2N....S2N lives in California and has a day job in journalism...he is a native of Iowa who spent plenty of Saturdays in Iowa City tailgating at and/or going to Iowa Hawkeye games...I want to thank S2N for his time...he was very quick to answer when I asked him to participate...
Q1. First off, how did you come up with the name Signal to Noise?
A. I took a music recording course in college, and the "signal to noise ratio" is an electrical engineering term that, when you're recording, compares the level of desired sound to background noise. Essentially, the name reminded me of a fancier way of saying "BS filter," and it really didn't box me in if I wanted to write about things other than sports.
Q2. How would you describe your blog?
A. The blog is just my ramblings and occasional attempts at humor on various sports topics, in the past it has handled politics, music, and entertainment, and may do so again. I fail repeatedly at trying to describe it as anything more than something I just do for fun and amusement.
Q3. You state on your blog that you are a big New York Mets fans. What are your thoughts about the Mets this season?
A. God, the Mets scare me so much right now this year. In Johan I trust, especially because he's coming over from a much more difficult league for pitchers and the NL East is not exactly a pitching-rich division (most of the teams don't really roll more than two or three deep in terms of studs rotation-wise.) David Wright will be consistently good and a possible MVP; Jose Reyes will figure out that you can't swoon towards the back end of the season, hopefully. The bullpen concerns me -- how the Mets get from Santana, Pedro, Maine, and Oliver Perez to Billy Wagner is really my question mark -- that is after wondering if Moises Alou, Carlos Delgado, and Carlos Beltran will make it through the season in one piece. After last season's collapse, anything less embarrassing is a bonus.
By the way, if people are asking "Wait, he was born in L.A. and still lives in California, how is he a Mets fan?", I have an explanation: my parents are both NYC natives old enough to remember the Dodgers when they were in Brooklyn. My family has quite a few sports fans who hold a grudge very well, and my dad raised me as a Mets fan.
Q4. With you living on the west coast, I have to ask, what are your thoughts about Joe Torre managing the Dodgers? Will he make a difference with the Dodgers? Do the Dodgers make the playoffs?
A. I think Joe Torre can and will make a difference with the Dodgers, but it won't be enough to make the playoffs. The NL West is a pitcher's division, and Arizona only got better by adding Dan Haren via trade to go with Brandon Webb. San Diego always pitches well, and the Rockies have good young arms.
Now, Derek Lowe and Brad Penny? Good arms. Jason Schmidt is a question mark after his injuries last season. The idea of Russell Martin, Jeff Kent, Andruw Jones, James Loney, and Matt Kemp forming the heart of an order looks really good on paper. The question is whether or not Torre can keep the players on the same page in ways Grady Little couldn't and avoid over-use of his solid bullpen. I think they finish second or third in the division right now, but they won't be sniping at each other when the season is over.
Also, Juan Pierre is stealing playing time from Andre Ethier because of a bad contract. I'm absolutely with the Fire Joe Morgan crew on this.
Q5. Real quick - Kobe, LeBron, or T.Mac for MVP? Make your case.
A. I'm a Kobe partisan, not because I'm a Lakers fan, but because he is showing more flashes of MJ and dealing with a line-up that has been in flux with injuries. This year, he's had some serious help, but he still makes that team go and obviously kicks it in higher gear when Bynum and now Gasol have gotten injured. LeBron has carried that Cavaliers team, but I would go Kobe -- perversely, it seems his trade outburst and obsessive competitive need that drove that made his team better. Plus, Kobe plays really, really good defense -- he takes pride in taking on the opposing team's top guard. That means a lot to me.
Q6. How far do you see the Los Angeles Lakers going in the NBA playoffs? What is their weakness?
A. If the Lakers don't get healthy and win a title this year, they'll do it next year. I want to say they will make the Finals, but there's always San Antonio to deal with before they get there. The Lakers' ideal line-up hasn't set foot on the court together yet (Fisher-Kobe-Odom-Pau-Bynum), and if they do, we've all got to see how and if it clicks in the post-season. I'll say conference finals right now. This team's weakness is injury -- Bynum's still out, Gasol got hurt recently (should be back soon), and Trevor Ariza was playing well off the bench when he got hurt a few months ago. They might be too banged up to be title contenders.
Q7. I have to ask you a football question. Do you think UCLA will become a force in college football now that Rick Neuheisel is their new football coach? What do USC fans think about Norm Chow now being the Bruins offensive coordinator?
A. I don't think we'll really know how Slick Rick will do in Westwood until his third season. I watched him coach in Colorado (I lived in Denver for several years as a teenager), and his slides always came when he got his own recruits in the program, about the third year or so. He'll probably do better this time because a) it's his alma mater, and b) there really is a need to have a competitive program in Westwood to battle the Trojans. There are and will be NFL-level blue-chippers who want to have a better chance at starting at a SoCal program. Neuheisel and the Bruins represent that opportunity.
I think it's an uphill battle for UCLA to become a power like Florida and Ohio State became a couple years ago -- legitimate title threats in both men's revenue sports -- because so much is dedicated to the school's basketball legacy. The school is willing to try, although it is rather telling that they wound up hiring the prodigal son after most of the big coaching names either said no because of money or did not get a sniff from the AD due to perceived or real salary demands. However, Neuheisel is saying and doing all the right things, and giving UCLA football a public face that Karl Dorrell just wasn't equipped personality-wise to do.
Generally, the public sense I get about USC fans' response to Norm Chow taking over O-coordinator duties at UCLA has been "Good for them; we need some competition." I haven't read any sort of Judas comparisons -- this is the Pac-10 we are talking about here, and while fans in L.A. are certainly passionate about college football, it's not quite at the level of SEC backers where the big university's athletics are the only game in town. I would bet the fire will actually start to really burn if and when the Bruins start being competitive again. I don't see that happening for another year, mostly due to a deficiency at the quarterback position.
Q8. I have to ask a non-sports question - Obama, Clinton, or McCain? Why?
A. I was an Edwards person earlier in the race, and I think Obama gets to more of his themes and seems to mean it. There's a lot to be said for inspiration from a candidate; he's the first interesting and compelling orator in politics that I have seen running for president. Policy-wise, I find he and Hillary Clinton are not terribly far apart.
I think Clinton is tied to way too many established interests via her own Senate terms and her husband's connections, and I don't like the continued dynastic succession that her election would essentially become. That doesn't mean I won't vote for her over John McCain; I think he has changed his positions on Bush's economic policy and conduct of the Iraq War in order to garner votes in the primaries. (I was opposed to the Iraq War from the beginning.)
Q9. Who are the five hottest women in sports and/or broadcasting?
A. Wow, that's a tough call. I'll list alphabetically:
- Erin Andrews (duh)
- Bonnie Bernstein (holds her own with NFL guys)
- Stacy Dales (I'm 6'2", I like tall women)
- Maria Sharapova (more duh)
- Serena Williams (you can make cracks about the muscles all you want, but she's always been attractive to me)
I realize my list is fairly standard.
Q10. Last question, this segment is called "Beers with Bloggers." So what are some of your favorite brews? What are some beers that you like that may not be well known nationally?
A. I drink a lot of Guinness (my favorite bar is an Irish pub), plenty of Newcastle, and prefer Coors when I'm drinking cheap. I like drinking locally, and the Firestone-Walker Brewery is a very good one. I have friends and co-workers who have worked there, and it's great stuff. My favorite is the Pale Ale, but you can't go wrong with the Double Barrel Ale either. Sierra Nevada is better known nationally, and that's always been a favorite.
Once again, I want to thank S2N for his time...and I truly understand you wanting to stay anonymous...
Stiles Points steps away from the NFL Draft today and looks at baseball...Tampa Tribune's Joe Henderson was kind enough to respond to some questions about the New York Yankees and Hank Steinbrenner....
Q1. First off, what are your thoughts about George Steinbrenner? He is often painted as the bad guy of sports. Wh
at are your views of The Boss?
A. I think it’s impossible to label George definitively. He certainly was given to excess with the Yankees and there’s no question his spending habits put extreme pressure on so-called small market teams. But his motive was simple: To win every time. We were allowed a view of him in Tampa that not everyone else got to see – that of civic benefactor whose checkbook was always open for those who needed it most. That trumps any of the baseball stuff in my opinion.
Q2. Real quick - was George Steinbrenner good for baseball? Why or why not?
A. Overall, I think he was good for the game and deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.
Q3. What is your take of Hank Steinbrenner? Does he have the ability to be a good owner?
A. I like Hank’s style so far but it’s way too soon to tell how he’ll do. I thought he handed the Torre and A-Rod situations well and he listened to his advisors when they told him not to overpay for Johan Santana. That’s encouraging.
Q4. During your time at spring training, how do you think the Yankees players adapted to Joe Girardi as the manager instead of Joe Torre? What was the atmosphere like around camp without Torre?
A. The camp was significantly different, in my opinion – a little more urgency, a little less complacency. That won’t hurt, but the true test will come when the season starts. I mean, the Rays have the best Grapefruit League record and we know what that’s worth.
Thanks again to Joe for his time....
Today's NFL Draft Spotlight is on UNLV linebacker James "Beau" Bell...Bell is 6'3", 245 lbs...he was the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year...Mark Anderson of the Las Vegas Review-Journal was nice enough to respond to our questions about Bell...I want to thank Mark for his time...
Q1. Beau Bell is listed as one of the top linebackers in the country. One publication states, "The dude is an animal. Bell flies around and makes plays all over the field." How would you describe Bell?
A. That description is very accurate. Bell is an aggressive player who is especially outstanding against the run. The concern of NFL scouts heading into last season was his ability against the pass, but Bell improved tremendously there and made four interceptions. UNLV put him in positions where he could roam around and make plays, and that's exactly what he did.
Q2. What type of person is Bell off the field? Is he a good practice player? Does he have the desire?
A. Bell is one of the more humble players anyone will meet, especially for a star. I think he never realized how good he was until his senior season. Bell always was a playmaker, but usually deferred to other players when it came to leadership. It was interesting watchiing him grow up and believe in himself more and truly become a leader asa senior. He already led by example through his strong work habits. I do think it will take him a while to become a strong leader in the NFL because I see him again deferring to older players. But if he stays in the league a few years, I could see that kind of growth in confidence occurring again.
Q3. What current NFL player is Bell comparable to?
A. That's a hard question because there are so many unknowns. Bell clearly was the best defensive player in the Mountain West Conference, but what does that mean compared to top linebackers from power conferences? Because it's difficult to compare to even those players, I have a hard time lining him up against an NFL player. One thing in Bell's favor iscornerback Eric Wright came out of UNLV last year and had a successful rookie season for the Cleveland Browns, so Bell could make a major impact as well. Then I think it would be more fair to compare him.
Q4. What must Bell improve upon in order to make an impact in the NFL?
A. I think there are still questions about his ability to drop in pass coverage. Also, before he injured his left knee at Senior Bowl practices, scouts were disappointed he wasn't quicker. Not being able to run at the scouting combine didn't help, either, and Bell did not appear in UNLV's pro day in order to get more training in after the injury. He has scheduled his own workout at UNLV on March 31, so a lot of questions should be answered then.
Q5. Are there any other UNLV players we should keep an eye on for this year's draft? Who are some future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 UNLV team?
A. Bell probably is the only Rebel who will be drafted. If anyone else goes, it probably will be defensive end Jeremy Geathers, who left early. He comes from a football family (cousin Robert Geathers Jr. currently plays for the Cincinnati Bengals), so that could get him an extra look. Cornerback Mil'Von James has a small chance to be drafted, but most likely will sign as a free agent. Kicker Sergio Aguayo, offensive lineman Tim Goins and wide receiver Aaron Straiten would have to go the free agent route. As for next year, there aren't many prospects because most of the top players are sophomores and juniors. Frank Summers, a 240-pound tailback, might be the best bet. Cornerback Geoffery Howard is a possibility. Defensive tackle Jacob Hales probably is a long shot.
I want to thank Mark again for his time!!!...
Today's NFL Draft Spotlight is on East Carolina's Chris Johnson...Johnson is a 5'11", 195 lb. running back who is also being projected as a possible wide receiver...in 2007, Johnson rushed for 1,423 yards and 17 touchdowns...he also had 37 receptions for 528 yards and six touchdowns...
Nathan Summers of the Greenville (NC) Reflector covers East Carolina football and was nice enough to respond to our questions about Johnson...I thank him for his time...
Q1. Chris Johnson is rated as one of the top 10 running backs in this year's draft. What are the strengths of his game? What areas must he improve on?
A. Chris's greatest two strengths are his burst and his durability. While he has already shown he is a gifted sprinter, Johnson's greatest early struggles in college were finding the space and the time to use that speed. As he worked tirelessly on his body while at East Carolina, it finally showed in his senior season. He commanded space because he learned how to find his legs and then lean into the momentum of the play and break tackles. His pass-catching skills make him a legitimate offensive threat, especially on the screen.
Q2. What type of person is Chris Johnson off the field?
A. Chris was always a pretty quiet kid, but definitely grew more comfortable with the spotlight as it grew for him. Like many athletes, the media room isn't his favorite place, but he became comfortable enough with me to ask me questions about stories and to understand the reason for the attention. His teammates have always said he was one of the most devoted players to the ECU program.
Q3. I read in one publication that Johnson may be moved to wide receiver in the NFL. What are your thoughts about that?
A. The wide receiver question has been following Chris since his sophomore season, and seemed at first to be the product of a struggling team needing quick offense. He has blinding speed on routes over the middle and the bubble screen became one of his greatest weapons as a senior. But his growth physically in the last year seems to have made him a better pass-catching back and return man than a classic receiver.
Q4. Are there any other ECU players that we should keep an eye on for this year's draft?
A. Defensive back Travis Williams is a player with speed, flair and personality who had an up-and-down career at ECU, but who played through a couple of coaching changes. He was the other young star on the losing teams of the John Thompson coaching era and, like Johnson, played all over the field. But he was bent on being a corner, and Williams — who made a game-winning overtime interception at Southern Miss as a junior — continued training at Tom shaw's Wide World of Sports in Orlando this winter in hopes of being drafted.
Q5. Who are some of the future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 ECU team?
A. The most obvious emerging stars seem to be the receiving duo of Jamar Bryant and Dwayne Harris, who will be the starting flanks this season in the ECU offense. Young running backs like Jonathan Williams and Norman Whitley will also have the chance to emerge as the next Chris Johnson.
Once again I want to thank Nathan...it is much appreciated...
Thoughts on today's games:
12:10 - Villanova -5.5 vs. Siena - one week ago today, Nova was sweating about making the tournament....now they are one win away from the Sweet 16...they win by 7...
2:15 - Texas - 7.5 vs. Miami (Fla) - the way yesterday's games went, all indications show that the U will give Texas a battle...I could see this game being similar to the A&M-UCLA game...Texas wins, but does not cover...
2:30 - Tennessee -4.5 vs. Butler - the Vols better get their shit together starting today...they have been sloppy since their landmark win over Memphis a few weeks back...Vols win, but do not cover...
2:50 - Western Kentucky -5.5 vs. San Diego - San Diego played beautifully against UConn...they played with confidence and a swagger...I'm going with them again today to dump WKU and Elmo's red cousin...
2:50 - Georgetown -5.5 vs. Davidson - if this game was played two months ago, the Hoyas would be a double digit favorite...this is a tough one...I love both teams...Hoyas win, but Stephen Curry is a force once again...
4:45 - Memphis -9 vs. Mississippi State - people probably do not know that Tyler Hansbrough's brother plays for Miss State...Memphis wins by 12 or more...
5:00 - Louisville -7 vs. Oklahoma - I love Rick Pitino and the Ville...but that is too many points to give OU...the Ville wins, but close...
5:15 - North Carolina -11 vs. Arkansas - Carolins wins, but 11 is too many points to give the Hogs...
Sunday Sports Stories
New York Times sports columnist William Rhoden writes about West Virginia's tough-guy coach and player... "The Mountaineers were a finesse team under John Beilein, who coached them for the previous five seasons. Under Huggins, West Virginia has become more physical, what Mazzulla calls “a more beat-you-up team.”" ... William RhodenNew York Times sports columnist Murray Chass writes that David Wells is approaching 45-years-old, but is not willing to hang 'em up yet... "The end has to come at some point, but Wells isn’t ready to recognize this as the end. He did not respond to an interview request, but Clifton said Wells was working out as if it’s not the end, “hoping to get a phone call.”" ... Murray ChassWashington Post sports reporter Sally Jenkins writes how Bruce Pearl has the Tennessee fans rooting for men's basketball too... "The Vols lack a single McDonald's high school all-American on their roster, yet their pressuring, sprint-to-the rim style has racked up 76 victories in three seasons, kept them among the nation's top five all winter and earned them a No. 2 seed in the East Region." ... Sally JenkinsLos Angeles Times NBA beat writer Mark Heisler writes how this year's NBA Draft could be filled with college freshmen... "In a salute to the NCAA tournament, here's our annual mock draft. OK, it's just mine, but thanks to the six NBA people who helped me, along with local gurus Don MacLean and Frank Burlison." ... Mark HeislerTampa Tribune sports reporter Joey Johnston writes that Cinderella is currently residing in Tampa... "Early Saturday morning, after an emotionally exhausting day-night of NCAA Tournament basketball, Villanova coach Jay Wright was still talking about the unprecedented Cinderella quadruple-header. Four games, four big upsets." ... Joey JohnstonTampa Tribune sports columnist Joe Henderson introduces us to the new Boss of the Yankees... "His father, the famous Boss, has gone into the background for the most part. All Hank will say is, "He's doing good. He's doing all right. He is pretty much retired. Obviously, who better to seek advice from if you need it, but he leaves it up to us now. It's a matter of seeking his opinion out, if we want it." ... Joe HendersonThis story ran in Friday's New York Times...Times sports reporter Katie Thomas writes about a tradition at New York Rangers games when Dancin Larry, aka Homo Larry, gets the crowd fired up...the chants of Homo Larry now have gay people upset... "As Goodman’s routine is broadcast on the giant monitors above the ice, a familiar chant picks up momentum. “Ho-mo Lar-ry!” the crowd shouts. “Ho-mo Lar-ry!”" ... Katie Thomas
Terrelle Pryor played Michigan and Penn State better than Charlie Daniels plays a fiddle...he stated that he did not make up his mind until that morning...who the fuck is he kidding!!!!...he knew he was going to Ohio State from day one...this was just a game to him and his co-horts and fellow incoming freshmen at Ohio State Michael Brewster and J.B. Shugarts...Shugarts and Brewster have already been popping off even though have yet to play a game for Ohio State...
Pryor announced in February that he wanted to still take his official visit to Penn State and Oregon -- that never happened...just three weeks ago he said that he wanted to visit Michigan once again during Easter break -- that never happened...Pryor is trying to play the innocent role, but he is not fooling anyone...
Speaking of Penn State, all reports indicate there will be a showdown between the university president and Joe Paterno regarding if Paterno will remain the head coach after this season...JoePa's contract ends after the 2008 season...
Stephen Curry of Davidson is the real deal...he put on a show in leading Davidson back against Gonzaga...Curry finished with 40 points, 30 in the second half...
Those were some great upsets with the games played at Tampa...every lowered seeded team won - #12 Villanova, #12 Western Kentucky, #13 San Diego, and #13 Siena...
Thoughts on today's games:
2:10 - Duke -4.5 vs. West Virginia - take the Hillbillies...Duke will win the game, but not by the spot....
4:20 - Wisconsin -4.5 vs. Kansas State - Michael Beasley cannot get into foul trouble early like he did against USC...Wisconsin will probably have their defensive wiz, Flowers, covering the Beaze...upset here - Kansas State wins...
4:40 - Xavier -3 vs. Purdue - this will be a rugged physical game that will go back-and-forth...X wins and covers....
6:40 - Washington State -2.5 vs. Notre Dame - the Irish were impressive in dismantling George Mason...I like Wazzou to win and cover...
6:45 - Stanford -4.5 vs. Marquette - Stanford has impressed me of late...I see the Cardinal winning here...take the chalk...
6:50 - Kansas -13.5 vs. UNLV - UPSET ALERT!!!...I'm going to go out on a limb and say UNLV pulls the upset and beats Kansas straight up....Wink Adams baby!!!...
9:10 - Pitt -4 vs. Michigan State - Sparty is getting four points???....this will be the best game of the day...Pitt wins, but take Sparty with the points...
9:11 - UCLA -10 vs. Texas A&M - Bruins roll....take the chalk....
Today's NFL Draft Spotlight is on Maryland's Dre Moore and Erin Henderson....Moore is listed as one of the top 5 defensive tackles...at 6'4", 311 lbs., he recorded six sacks last season.....Henderson, who is 6'3", 236 lbs, is a top 10 linebacker...Matt Bracken of The Baltimore Sun took the time to respond about both players...I want to thank him for his time....
Q1. In most publications, Dre Moore (photo) is listed as one of the top defensive tackl
es in this year's draft. What are his strengths and weaknesses?
A. Physically, Moore's got all the tools you'd want in a defensive tackle, and more importantly, those tools actually translate into productivity. He's not just a combine specimen. Moore's production increased every year at Maryland, culminating with a senior year in which he had 63 tackles. 8.5 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks - the most any Terp has recorded since Shawne Merriman in '04. Like many defensive tackles, Moore's been known to take a play or two off here and there, so that's probably his most notable weakness. But regardless of that, Moore looks like a solid second-round choice.
Q2. Another Maryland product is linebacker Erin Henderson. What are your thoughts about Henderson? Is he better suited as an inside or outside linebacker?
A. Having rebounded from an ACL tear as a redshirt freshman, and then playing through back spasms, more knee troubles, and a variety of other minor injuries (eye, shoulder, you name it) during this past year, it's safe to say that Henderson is a tough player. Granted, those are more ailments than you'd like to see, but he was really a warrior on the field all year long to play through that pain.
Henderson is just a playmaker, and truly a well-spoken, natural leader. He's a guy that others follow, and certainly someone you'd want on your team. He played the WILL linebacker for Maryland, so putting Henderson inside in a 3-4 defense could be the best fit for him in the NFL. But he's a versatile guy that just makes plays.
Q3. One of the sleepers in the draft could be tight end Joey Haynos. He is listed at 6'8" and is listed as a hard worker. What are your thoughts about Haynos? Can he stick in the NFL?
A. You mentioned Haynos' two best attributes - size and work ethic. Haynos came to Maryland five years ago as a preferred walk-on, choosing the Terps over a basketball scholarship from Campbell (N.C.) University. He added about 40 pounds to his frame over his four and a half years in College Park, and developed into a reliable pass-catching tight end along the way. So work ethic is not a concern with Haynos - he'll do whatever is asked of him. Speed's a bit of a concern with Haynos, having run in the high 4.8s at the combine. But he's a solid blocker with very good hands. It sounds like Haynos will fall in that round 5-7 range. He's got a good shot at sticking with a team as a backup tight end.
If I may shamelessly plug something here, we've been doing an occasional series at BaltimoreSun.com on Haynos leading up to the draft. Haynos
Q4. Who are some other sleeper picks on the Maryland team that we should pay attention to on draft day?
A. This might be a loose interpretation of the word "sleeper," but thanks to offensive guard Andrew Crummey breaking his left fibula twice in the last six months, he fits the bill. Crummey first broke the bone against Georgia Tech in October. He battled back to appear in the Terps' last two regular season games and the Emerald Bowl, but broke the bone again in the East-West Shrine Game in January. When he was healthy near the beginning of the year, there was talk that he'd be a mid-round selection. Now, it's tough to say. Any team that drafts him will probably have to do so with the knowledge that his rookie year will be a wash between rehabbing and learning a system. But he's a solid long-term investment - he's got the tools to be a starting OG in the league a few years down the road.
Other potential Terps sleepers include cornerback Isaiah Gardner, who tested very well at Maryland's Pro Day last week, safety J.J. Justice, who's got great size and really finished his senior season strong, and running back Keon Lattimore, Ray Lewis' younger brother and a powerful inside runner. I'm not sure any of those three will hear their names called on Day 2 of the draft, but they're all worthy of camp invites.
Q5. Who are some of the future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 Maryland team?
A. Darrius Heyward-Bey, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound wide receiver, is already appearing on a selection of NFL Draft sites' 2009 first-round mock drafts. DHB will just be a junior, and his sophomore season was a bit of a disappointment statistically thanks to an initially shaky quarterback situation, but it's tough to ignore his 4.3ish speed. He's the one to watch from an early entry standpoint.
Cornerback Kevin Barnes is a guy I think could develop into a potential round 2-4 selection. He's got excellent cover skills, ideal size, and 4.5 speed. Others to watch include Jaime Thomas, who should be one of the ACC's better offensive guards next year, Dave Philistin, who was very productive in his first year as a starting linebacker last season, Trey Covington, a linebacker/defensive end type that has great strength, overachieving defensive end Jeremy Navarre and reliable wide receiver Isaiah Williams.
Once again, I want to thank Matt for his time....
It's Thursday so that means it is another feature in the series "Beers with Bloggers....today's feature is with Brian from One More Dying Quail....Brian was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and lived in Rye for most of my life...he and his wife now live in Nashua, NH, on the Massachusetts border.....he is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a degree in history....currently he is working as a high school paraeducator and a home care provider in southern New Hampshire....
I want to thank Brian for his time....it is much appreciated...
Q1. First off, how did you come up with the name One More Dying Quail?
A. When I started the blog a couple of years ago, it was actually my second foray into the medium - about a month earlier, around June 2006, I created a Fox Sports blog called All The Good Names Are Taken, which was my way of noting that there were seemingly a million blogs out there with GREAT names, which made it hard to come up with something original and meaningful (I think I have since been proven wrong in this belief).
So when I decided to start a Blogger blog (which in my mind was somehow more credible than one at Fox Sports), I decided to try and come up with something more interesting and personal. As you may know, two of my great loves are baseball and movies, so I started looking at some quotes from my favorite films, to see if anything stuck. For awhile, "A Sky So Blue" (from Field of Dreams, if memory serves) seemed like a good idea - until I decided that it was a little TOO sentimental-sounding for my liking. Then, my thoughts turned to Bull Durham and Kevin Costner's great speech near the end, and I almost went with "25 Hits A Year", but it wasn't quite what I wanted.
In the end, I stuck with that speech, in which Costner talks about how small the difference is between hitting .250 and .300, between the minors and the majors - one of the phrases he uses to describe a lucky hit is a "dying quail". The exact wording is, "you get a dying quail, just one more dying quail a week... and you're in Yankee Stadium." To me, that line drove home the point that you can be really, really good at something, but there's still an element of luck in everything that we do. I guess I planned on writing some less than good posts, and hoped one or two of those dying quails would land on the outfield grass.
Q2. You have to be the envy of every blogger in the country. You landed an interview with ESPN's Erin Andrews. Tell us how you did it. Was it a phone interview?
A. I don't know if I'm the envy of every blogger in the country, because it's been five months and I think that interview has sort of faded from people's minds at this point. There's a lot of new Erin Andrews content out there now that sort of overshadows stuff that happened back in October.
Of course, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy telling the story of how I landed it, if only because five years from now it will probably still be the greatest thing that ever happened to my blog. Put it this way: in one day, that interview and the links from it brought me over 37,000 hits; the following three MONTHS netted about 36,000.
Anyway, here's how it happened. Last spring, I wrote a post about Andrews and Tina Cervasio, the Red Sox sideline reporter for NESN the past two seasons. It got linked by Deadspin and The Big Lead, among others, and gave me the most traffic I'd ever had to that point. In September, I decided to see if I could capitalize on that, looked around the Internet, and found Tina's contact information on her Web site. We did an interview in September via email, during which I jokingly suggested that she could introduce me to Erin Andrews. She told me that if I was interested, I should just go ahead and contact her myself, tell her what I was looking for, and hope for the best.
So I found a general PR email for ESPN and did just that. They got back to me within a few days, I sent some questions, and didn't hear from them for a week or two. I emailed back, said I really, really wanted to interview her and would do so via whichever method they wanted. The PR guy emailed me back and said, "She can call you on Tuesday or Thursday - which do you prefer?" I picked Thursday.
She called on Thursday, the day Boston College played Virginia Tech, and absolutely couldn't have been nicer. I think she knew that I wasn't a professional and was very nervous, and took that into account throughout the interview. I've been afraid to pursue anyone else for that reason - I'm not a good interviewer, and there is NO WAY that anyone else could be as nice and understanding as she was.
Q3. How would you describe your blog?
A. A commenter at Awful Announcing once referred to my writing there as "esoteric bullshit." That probably sums up the content of One More Dying Quail as much as anything. I have a great time writing it, but most of my work doesn't exactly appeal to the masses - it just happens to be stuff that interests me personally or catches my attention for whatever reason.
Q4. With the Rockets on an incredible hot streak, Tracy McGrady has moved into the NBA MVP race. Who is your vote for MVP - McGrady, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, or Kevin Garnett? Why?
A. My heart says Garnett - the difference in the Celtics between last year and this year is unbelievable, and I think his attitude is largely to thank - but I'm not sure that any player in the NBA is as vital to his team's success as LeBron is.
Q5. Real quick - who would you rather have announce a college basketball game - Billy Packer or Dick Vitale? Why?
A. I don't watch much college basketball - less this year than ever, in fact - but I have to go with Vitale. He may be loud and obnoxious, but at least he seems to genuinely care about basketball, which is more than can be said for a lot of announcers these days, in any sport.
Q6. When reading your blog, it seems like you have a great knowledge of baseball. If you had to win one baseball game, who would you put on the mound as the starting pitcher and who would you want to manage that game? Here's the catch - the player & manager have to be from the last 15 years. (You can list out some of the pitchers/managers you would consider.)
A. Last fifteen years, huh? I guess that rules out Koufax...
Okay, my pitcher would be the 1997-2003 version of Pedro Martinez (well, except for 2001). He's always been a great competitor, which could very well carry him for another few seasons, but those were the years in which he was virtually unhittable every time he took the mound. His stuff was just incredible.
The manager would be Grady Little...just kidding (I can't believe I even attempted that joke).
Really, the manager would be Terry Francona, partly because his record as a postseason manager is excellent (if that even means anything) and partly because I think he would have the brains to pull Martinez if things got tough.
Q7. If you had a vote for the Baseball Hall of Fame, would you vote in Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, and/or Sammy Sosa? Your thoughts.
A. I think so. We mythologize the Hall of Fame and treat it as this sacred shrine, which is nice and all, but the truth is that the guys and gal who are enshrined there are just as human as the rest of us. I would probably take that into account when casting my vote.
Still, I'm not sure we can expect any of the three to make it on the first couple of ballots. As I've argued in the case of Mark McGwire, the fifteen year limit was practically created for issues like this. Look at it this way: we have five years to think about those three guys you named (assuming none of them play in 2008), then fifteen years after THAT to consider their cases. It really allows us the opportunity to let history judge a player.
Q8. I have to ask a non-sports question - Obama, Clinton, or McCain? Why?
A. Obama. I like the idea of having a president who isn't your typical Washington lifer. True, he lacks experience, but that can be somewhat remedied by surrounding himself with more experienced voices who can play an important role in the decision-making process.
My second choice at this point would probably be McCain. Regardless of who gets the Democratic nomination, however, plan on revisiting my position again this summer, just to make sure I'm making the most informed choice.
Q9. Who are the five hottest women in sports and/or broadcasting?
A. Erin Andrews. Maria Sharapova. Kerri Walsh. Serena Williams. Jeannette Lee.
Q10. Last question, this segment is called "Beers with Bloggers." So what are some of your favorite brews? What are some beers that you like that may not be well known nationally?
A. My tastes are pretty standard - Bud Light or Coors Light, if anything.
Thanks again to Brian...and I encourage everyone to bookmark his blog...it is worth it!!!...
I have done my studying, my analyzing, and my reviewing....and I say. "Screw Off Joe Lunardi, my bracket is just as good as yours, Mr. Bracketology!!!!"....here we go...
East Region
First/Second Round Thoughts - Watch Indiana...the talent is there for them to beat Arkansas and North Carolina...but will the players finally get over Kelvin Sampson?...St. Joe's over Oklahoma in the first round...
Sweet 16 Games
North Carolina over Washington State - UNC has an easy win here...
Tennessee over Louisville - this will be the best game of the entire tournament...
Elite Eight
Tennessee over North Carolina - Carolina will be a fierce team to beat...Hansbrough will play possessed, but the Vols have speed...
Midwest Region
First/Second Round Thoughts - Remember the name Wink Adams from UNLV...I watched him torch BYU in the Mountain West title game...Davidson should beat Gonzaga...then I see Davidson having Georgetown beat in the second round, only to choke at the end and lose by 1-3 points...
Sweet 16 Games
Kansas over Clemson - Clemson is a rugged bunch, but they are awful at the free throw line...
Georgetown over Wisconsin - Wisconsin plays solid basketball but Georgetown has more speed...
Elite Eight
Georgetown over Kansas - Bill Self will not be able to get the monkey off his back of getting the Jayhawks to the Final Four...
South Region
First/Second Round Thoughts - there is the dreaded 5-12 matchup...I see Temple dumping Michigan State...the Spartans have not impressed me this year...I also have St. Mary's over The U...
Sweet 16 Games
Memphis over Pitt - I love Pitt, but I feel Memphis is destined for San Antonio...
Stanford over Texas - the Lopez twins are too much to handle...
Elite Eight
Memphis over Stanford - Memphis is destined to make the Final Four...
West Region
First/Second Round Thoughts - I see Drake having a difficult time with Western Kentucky but then beating U.Conn easily in round two...Georgia was a nice story last week, but Xavier ends that lovefest...
Sweet 16 Games
UCLA over Drake - Drake will give the Bruins a good game, but UCLA is too powerful...
Xavier over Duke - Duke is over-rated!!!...Xavier controls the game and wins...
Elite Eight
UCLA over Xavier - Xavier is a veteran club who will make a good run...but I love Love and Collison...
Final Four
Tennessee over Georgetown - Hibbard flops again in the Final Four...
UCLA over Memphis - the poor free throw shooting finally catches up with the Tigers...
NCAA Title Game
Tennessee over UCLA - honestly, I do like UCLA to win it all, but I said back in November that Tennessee was going to win the title....so I am not going to back off that prediction....
Today's NFL Draft Spotlight is on Penn State's Dan Connor and Justin King....Connor is a 6'3", 233 lb. linebacker while King is a 6'0", 186 lb. corner.....Jeff Rice of the State College Centre Daily took the time to respond about Connor and King....his time is greatly appreciated...
Q1. Dan Connor is Penn State's latest linebacking stud. How does he compare to last year's stud in Paul Posluszny? 
Who was better prepared for the NFL - Connor or Pos?
A. Connor (photo) and Posluszny were very similar players in college — both have great instincts, take good angles to the ball and finish off plays. Connor might be a little faster and thus a bit better in pass coverage, but both were as prepared for the NFL as you’ll find in a college player.
Q2. What areas must Connor improve upon in order to be a force in the NFL?
A. Even though Connor will probably play outside, I think he needs to add a little weight — he was listed at 235 pounds going into his senior season but probably finished the year around 230, which isn’t huge for a guy who is a legit 6-foot-2. He worked a lot on his pass rushing last season but probably needs a few more techniques to get past NFL tight ends, fullbacks and tackles, since he’s not going to do it with explosion.
Q3. Cornerback Justin King left a year early. What are your thoughts about that? Should King have stayed another year at Penn State or is he ready for the NFL?
A. I think King is as ready for the NFL now as he will ever be. He played significant minutes since his freshman season, he has good technique and great speed. He needs to add strength and size and improve his tackling, but it’s probably easier for him to bulk up as a pro anyway.
Q4. King has had some off-the-field issues. What are your thoughts about King and his maturity level?
A. King’s off-field issues were overblown — he’s not a troublemaker. He was mature enough to enroll early as a freshman and earn his degree in just three years. He’s always handled himself pretty well with the press, and his coaches liked his attitude and approach.
Q5. Who are some future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 Penn State team?
A. Sean Lee will be another Connor/Posluszny. Derrick Williams could wind up as a return specialist or third receiver for someone, and offensive linemen A.Q. Shipley and Rich Ohrnberger could be second-day picks or free agent signees.
Once again, I want to thank Jeff for his time...
Today's NFL Draft Spotlight is on Indiana wide receiver James Hardy....he is listed at 6'7", 220 lbs....last season, Hardy caught 79 passes for 1,125 yards and 16 touchdowns....he scored 36 touchdowns in his 3 years at IU....
Terry Hutchens of the Indianapolis Star was kind enough to take some time from his busy schedule of covering the Big Ten basketball tournament to respond...it is appreciated...
Q1. In most publications, James Hardy is listed as one of the top 10 receivers in this year's NFL draft. Many novice fans were not aware of Hardy's talents until now. Why was he so overlooked during the football season?
A. Bottom line is that Hardy played at Indiana, and with relatively few national television opportunties, a player can easily get lost at a school like Indiana. Hardy put up big numbers at Indiana. I think the biggest is that he had 36 touchdown catches in 32 regular season games. That's pretty impressive. He also averaged more than 60 catches a season for his three years of college football and nearly 900 yards per season. But when you're playing in a conference like the Big Ten, you just know that the guys at Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and places like that are going to get a lot more notoriety that a player who plays at IU. It's just the way it is.
Q2. What type of person is James Hardy off the field?
A. I think coming into college, Hardy had some character issues and he had one off-the-field incident involving his girlfriend in May of 2006 as well. But with the help of late IU football coach Terry Hoeppner, who was clearly a father figure to Hardy, this young man just really grew up in front of people's eyes. To see his maturity level and to hear him speak throughout his senior season, he just seemed like a different kid. I think in a few years time, Hardy went from a questionable character kid to a high character individual.
Q3. What current NFL player is Hardy comparable to?
A. People mention Plaxico Burress but it's hard to compare him. He has great size and that will always be the thing that stands out about Hardy.
Q4. What are Hardy's strengths and weaknesses?
A. Hardy has excellent hands and is capable of making the acrobatic play. His size (he's 6-7) also is a strength and he knows how to use his body to his advantage. He doesn't have burner speed and that may cause him to slip a little bit on a few NFL draft boards. But I think there's a lot of potential upside with Hardy.
This is a kid who came to Indiana on a football scholarship but was second in the voting from Mr. Basketball in the state of Indiana and came to IU with the intention of playing both. But basketball was always his primary love and most thought he would play football a year or two and then just concentrate on hoops. But he had some good early football success and then everything changed. But he really has only been playing organized football for less than five years and a lot of people see him as just coming into his own in terms of the things he can do on the football field.
Q5. Who are some of the future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 IU team?
A. Kellen Lewis, a dual threat quarterback, is someone to keep an eye on. He's a redshirt junior but people have made comparisons to Antwaan Randle El in terms of Lewis's game. Marcus Thigpen is a tailback with 4.29 speed. He could play at the next level as a kick returner possibly. Greg Middleton is a junior who had 16 quarterback sacks as a sophomore and is clearly someone to keep an eye on.
Once again, I would like to thank Terry for his time...
Today may be Selection Sunday for the NCAA, but the biggest basketball game of the day takes place in Houston as the Rockets put their 21 game win streak on the line against the Los Angeles Lakers
Houston ChronicleLos Angeles Times NBA beat writer Mark Heisler writes the Houston Rockets may be the most modest 21 game win streak team ever... "The mere number 21 doesn't begin to capture what the Rockets have done. After winning 13 in a row, their world seemed to end Feb. 25 when they lost Yao Ming for the season -- after which they went out and tacked on another eight wins. They're now second only to the 1971-72 Lakers, who had a 33-game streak, which is expected to stand forever -- assuming this isn't a mass hallucination and it falls next." ... Mark HeislerCharlotte Observer sports columnist Tom Sorensen writes how UNC's Tyler Hansborough may not be the most talented player in college basketball, but he may be the hardest worker... "We also won't see another player who reminds us of North Carolina junior Tyler Hansbrough. Unlike the others, he has yet to put on a dazzling move. But he works. He works harder than any player I have ever seen at any level of the sport." ... Tom SorensenChicago Sun-Times sports columnist writes tha Illinois' run in the Big 10 tourney is not that big of a deal... "No, Illinois should not be glorifying its mediocre march through Midwestern mush as some sort of historic rally. This is about a struggling, 10th-seeded flop becoming a decent team in a tourney panned nationwide as an aesthetic crash." ... Jay MariottiBoston Globe sports columnist writes about his scouting trek with former Boston Celtic Dave Cowens... "The year was 1979 and the coach was Dave Cowens. The big difference between that trip and the one that Riley is scheduled to take was that Cowens only arranged to miss practices, not games. But it was an honest-to-God scouting jaunt, all right." ... Bob RyanNew York Daily News sports columnist Mike Lupica "shoots from the lip" about the new Yankees... "For better or worse - and only the season will give us the answer to that one - the Yankees are Joe Girardi's now." ... Mike LupicaNew York Times sports columnist George Vecsey writes about Roger Clemens and his link with a 9/11 family... "The family also found a photograph of Kevin with Clemens, two sturdy guys, smiling for the camera. Kevin ran into Clemens at a barbecue place in Manhattan in 1999, and they chatted for 15 minutes." ... George VecseyDallas Morning News sports reporter Brad Townsend writes how Jason Kidd has returned to the Mavs as a wiser player... "Many athletes would regard three hours of videotaping, still photos and interviews as drudgery. But even during off-camera moments, Kidd was engaging, patient. Since his return to the franchise that drafted him in 1994 and traded him three years later, there has been an air of contentment about him." ... Brad Townsend
Houston Chronicle sports columnist Richard Justice writes that T.Mac may now be in the lead for the NBA MVP after the Rockets won their 21st straight game... "They are a team in every sense of the word, a really good team, a smart, resourceful and gritty team. Don't lose sight of the bottom line with these Rockets. There's one other thing to know about them. They've got the NBA's Most Valuable Player. Care to argue? Don't. You don't have the facts on your side. Tracy McGrady defines greatness almost any way you want to define it." ... Richard JusticeChicago Sun-Times sports columnist Jay Mariotti writes about Minnesota's Laettner-like shot to dump Indiana in the Big 10 tournament.... "From this point on, a sporting miracle will be known in American life as a ``Hoffarber.'' An athlete does not follow one otherworldly shot with another and not gain some sort of transcedent acknowledgement. What we saw on a memorable Friday night, I'd like to think we'll never see again in our lifetime." ... Jay MariottiESPN.com's Ivan Maisel writes about the changes taking place in Ann Arbor with the Michigan football program... "He knew the discomfort they would feel at the hands of their new director of strength and conditioning, Mike Barwis, and the staff he brought with him from West Virginia." ... Ivan MaiselPittsburgh Post-Gazette sports columnist Ron Cook writes how West Virginia could not stop Georgetown's Roy Hibbert.... "If Hibbert comes inspired to play and stays out of foul trouble -- as he did last night-- don't be surprised if the Hoyas win the national championship." ... Ron CookWashington Post sports reporter Mike Wise writes about American University's first trip to the Big Dance... "Needing badly to make a free throw, or any shot for that matter, Derrick Mercer stared more at history than at the rim with 19 seconds left. Listed generously at 5 feet 9, American University's pint-size guard had struggled to find his shooting range and his confidence for 40 minutes -- much like the Eagles struggled to find their path to the NCAA Division I basketball tournament for 41 years." ... Mike WiseColumbus Dispatch sports columnist Bob Hunter says Ohio State deserves to make the NCAA tournament... "If the Buckeyes had gotten a little better a little sooner, maybe if they had simply avoided a drubbing at Minnesota two weeks ago, they could have shrugged and walked away from Conseco Fieldhouse with a smug "just wait until next week." ... Bob Hunter
This week's Beers with Bloggers feature is with Derek of Insomniac's Lounge....Derek is a graduate of U.C.L.A. with a degree in biology....he lives in a suburb of Los Angeles and is currently on sabbatical to spend more time with his five-year-old son...when he is not busy with his son, Derek does a solid job writing for his blog...here is our interview with him...
Q1. Why do you blog? How long have you been doing Insomniac's Lounge?
A. Back in October of 2005, I was trying to remember some of the outrageous things that Freddie Mitchell had said during his press conferences. So I did a Google search, and one of the first things that popped up was an article over at themightymjd. That was my first exposure to blogs, and I was hooked immediately.
I used to write quite a bit before I went the science route, and I was missing it. I've found that blogs provide a great outlet to write what you want, when you want, and occasionally, even have a reader or two. Also, it gives me an excuse to surf the net for pics of college-aged girls in various states of undress. Can't ask for more than that.
Q2. What are your strengths at blogging? Why is Insomniac's Lounge a good blog?
A. Some people might argue with the premise of that question. When I first started my blog, like many others, I had zero readers. So I only wrote with the goal of entertaining myself. I still write with basically that same approach, which I think minimizes the amount of "filler" you'll find on my site.
If someone stumbles upon my site, I want them to crack a smile- either because I provided a slightly different spin on the day's story, a picture that they particularly enjoyed, or rarely, some insightful commentary. I don't want people to feel like they wasted their time when they clicked over to my site(assuming I actually had a new post that day). My feeling is that it's a personal blog, so give it some personality. Although Michael David Smith has been rather successful in the blogosphere and his writing has the personality of a vegan's stool, so what the hell do I know?
Q2a. I have to ask, do you suffer from insomnia?
A. Nothing that's been clinically diagnosed, but the only way I can fall asleep is essentially by collapsing from exhaustion. Generally that means going to sleep anywhere between 3 am and 6 am.
Q3. The NCAA Tournament is fast approaching. Who are your picks to make the Final Four and why?A. I just know that I'm going to end up picking some teams that end up in the same region. Also, I should mention that I never pick UCLA because of superstition. I'll go with:
- North Carolina: Playing in Raleigh and Charlotte is one hell of an edge. Being the best team in the country doesn't hurt either.
- Texas: Point guard play is always a factor in the tournament, and DJ Augustin is as good as they come on the college level.
- Kansas: Did I really just pick a Bill Self coached team to go to the Final Four? That pretty much undermines my credibility.
- Wisconsin: They'll be my UCLA surrogate pick. A defensive-minded, grind-it-out team that will always have a chance to win in the last five minutes of the game.
Q4. Real quick - who is the MVP in the NBA this year - LeBron or Kobe? Why?
A. Ya know, if Chris Paul were white and Canadian, he'd be the winner in a landslide. But since he isn't a choice, I'll go with Kobe because he's going against much tougher competition in the Western Conference.
Q5. Brett Favre just retired. Who are your all-time Top 10 quarterbacks of the last 30 years?
A. I'm going to exclude Staubach from my list since he was at the tail end of his career 30 yrs ago, but still include Bradshaw since he won 2 Super Bowls within that time frame:
1. Joe Montana
2. John Elway
3. Troy Aikman
4. Tom Brady
5. Peyton Manning
6. Dan Marino
7. Steve Young
8. Dan Fouts
9. Terry Bradshaw
10. Brett Favre
Q6. Hypothetical Question - You are in charge of the Miami Dolphins. What do you do with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft - keep it or trade it? If you keep it, who is your pick; if you trade it, what do you realistically want in return?
A. The Dolphins haven't had a QB that was the face of the franchise since the days when they had the sixth best QB of the last 30 years. For that reason, it's very tempting to go with Matt Ryan and build around him. But the Dolphins need so many pieces that trading down makes sense too. If it were up to me, I'd start a public love affair with Ryan and hope that the Falcons became jealous and offered up some nice picks to move up. If so, then I'd move down and snag Chris Long at #3. If the offer doesn't come and I was left with the #1 pick, I'd take Ryan. How's that for hedging an answer?
Q7. Joe Torre is now managing the Dodgers and Joe Girardi is with the Yankees. What are your thoughts about how each will do this season?
A. Well, when those dry Santa Anas come blowing into LA, it's really going to make Torre's boogers crusty. He may end up with a few extra bloody noses from scratching until he gets used to the new climate. I really don't see Joe Girardi and Alex Rodriguez as a very good match. I think at some point in the season, Girardi might make ARod cry.
Q8. I have to ask a non-sports question - Obama, Clinton, or McCain? Why?
A. Obama, because he believes we can, and I believe we can. And if we can't, we can pay some people in India 10 cents on the dollar to do it for us.
Q9. Who are the five hottest women in sports and/or broadcasting?
A. Tanith Belbin, Valeria Ochoa, Heather Mitts, Ana Ivanovic, and of course, the UCLA Dance Team.
Q10. Last question, this segment is called "Beers with Bloggers." So what are some of your favorite brews? What are some beers that you like that may not be well known nationally?
A. Negra Modelo is one that you can usually find in my fridge. Karl Strauss Red Trolley Ale is a San Diego beer that I really like, but it might just be because it reminds me of hanging out at Pacific Beach. Up here, I've discovered that they have it on tap at the Burbank Hooters, so that gives me another reason to visit that fine establishment. Abita has quite a few good brews; and it's based just outside of New Orleans, so you're helping rebuild the economy with each buzz.
Thanks for the questions. Go Blue! (For some reason, many UCLA fans have a kinship with Michigan. I think it's because we both keep getting our butts kicked by SC in football.)
Once again, I want to thank Derek for his time....and BTW - I love that UCLA Dance Team too!!!...
These are photos of the woman allegedly to be involved with soon-to-be former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer...
Today's spotlight is on defensive end Chris Long of the Virginia Cavaliers...in 2007 he registered 14 sacks....Long is 6'4", 277 lbs and is rated as the top defensive end....he is the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long....Jerry Ratcliffe of the The Daily Progress of Charlottesville, Va was kind enough to respond to my questions about Long...it is much appreciated...
Q1. Chris Long is being touted as one of the top 5 players in this year's draft. How would you rate him among the various other college football players (Virginia and their opponents) you have covered over the years?
A. First, you must understand that I have been covering sports for more than three decades, so that's a lot of players. While I have covered a lot of players that have been first round draft choices, I must say that none of them were quite like Chris Long. You hear people say "his motor never stops," which is a somewhat over-used phrase these days.
However, with Chris, this is truly the case. He admits that he's wound too tight, but he is one of the most motivated individuals I have ever known. He actually made himself into what he is today with hard work and incredible drive. He really was a borderline Division I-A prospect until his junior year of high school, when he made some significant strides, strides that have never stopped. He works so hard in the weightroom and the practice field. He is truly a self-made success. For him to accomplish what he did his senior season against double teams and even triple teams, was remarkable.
Also consider that he was held so many times in games, that if refs had called all those holds, Virginia would have probably not given up many points on defense because teams would be facing long yardage all day. Playing the two-gap at his size was incredible because he was pit against 310 to 330 pounders and still managed to excel.
Chris is truly one of a kind. What an NFL team will get when they draft him is more than they might expect. He's not only a great athlete, he's a great leader, the kind of kid that's going to unite a team, inspire a team. He is a great spokesperson. He's a high-character guy, a great teammate and a great representative of an organization.
Q2. What type of person is Chris Long? Did he have an attitude because he is Howie Long's son?
A. Here is where Chris separates himself from some of the great athletes I have seen over the years. Some are great athletes but not great people. Chris is both a great athlete as witnessed in his NFL Combine performance, and a great person. I have gotten to know him better than many athletes in Virginia's program because he's a hometown kid. I've seen him around for years prior to his college career. As far as him having an attitude because of being Howie's son, well, quite the contrary.
While growing up with a famous father has its advantages, Chris also had to carry the burden of having a dad in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A lot of people looked at him in high school and thought that he was getting a scholarship because of who his dad was, not because of Chris' talent. They soon found out that wasn't the case.
He is proud of being Howie's son, but to show the kind of kid he is, he would never single out just his dad. He also credited his mom, Diane, who is a very special lady, with making him who he is, just as much as he credited Howie. He also shared all glory with his two younger brothers, Kyle, who may be a first-round baseball draft choice right out of high school, and little Howie, who will play lacrosse for Virginia.
Chris received an award in our state recently that honored the top college player who was from the state of Virginia. Chris asked his high school coach to be his presenter in order to give that coach credit for helping him reach his goals. He is a very thoughtful kid. He was one of UVa's best recruiters during his four years here because all the prospects coming in really liked him.
Q3. Did Howie ever interfere or give advice to Virginia head coach Al Groh on how to coach Chris?
A. Howie couldn't have been better in the way he has handled Chris' career at Virginia. He always preferred to stay in the background and wanted Chris to be known for what Chris accomplished and not for being Howie's son. I remember one game at Georgia Tech, where Howie was in a skybox watching Chris play and the TV cameras kept flashing to Howie over and over again. Howie was disturbed by it all because he wanted all the attention to focus on Chris and his teammates and not himself. From that point on, Howie would watch the game in a TV truck or try to hide somewhere the cameras couldn't find him.
No, Howie never interfered with how Al Groh coached Chris. As Al proudly points out, there were several times when Howie would come by to pay a cordial visit to pay respect to Al, and sometimes they would get into football conversations, and even the two of them get down in stances in Al's office because Al would be curious about picking Howie's brain on some things. But never at Howie's suggestion. Howie was very good about that. He would only help if asked, but never interjected himself into the equation otherwise.
Same with the way he handled Chris. If Chris came to him and asked him for help on a technique or philosophy or any type of tips, Howie would do anything to assist his son, but only if Chris asked for help.
Q4. Are there any other Virginia players that we should keep an eye on for this year's draft?
A. Yes, offensive guard Branden Albert. He might be the best offensive line prospect in the draft. He was first-team All-ACC as a junior this past season and decided to come out. He is huge, strong and is incredible on the move. He would fit in well with a team that likes to pull its guards to lead plays out on the edge. He was a player that Groh plucked out of suburban Baltimore late in the signing process. No one else wanted this kid, but Groh offered him a scholarship, Albert went to prep school for a year, then came in and started as a true freshman and started ever since.
Q5. Who are some of the future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 Virginia team?
A. I would think that rising senior left offensive tackle Eugene Monroe (6-6, 310) will be someone to keep an eye on. He was the No. 1 ranked offensive line prospect in the nation coming out of high school and should be a first-team All-ACC selection his final year.
Outside linebacker Clint Sintim, rising senior, should be someone worth watching. While it's early in his career, sophomore quarterback Peter Lalich, has a chance to make a big splash this coming season. He played some last year as a true freshman and the job should be his. Great arm. Reminds a lot of folks of Matt Schaub.
Two running backs bear watching: rising senior Cedric Peerman (led the ACC in rushing until injuring his foot midway through last season and didn't return), and the guy who replaced him, rising junior Mikell Simpson, who had the longest run by a running back in college football bowl history this past season against Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl.
Once again I want to thank Jerry for his time...
The NFL Draft is fast approaching and once again Stiles Points will be putting the spotlight on various players and NFL teams leading up to the Draft...the first feature is on running back Kevin Smith from Central Florida...last season, as a junior, Smith carried the ball 450 times for 2,567 yards and 29 touchdowns....Smith is listed as 6'1", 211 lbs....
Kyle Hightower of the Orlando Sentinel was kind enough to respond with some thoughts about Smith...I want to thank Kyle for taking the time...
Q1. Kevin Smith is rated as one of the top 12 running backs in this year's NFL Draft. What type of running back is he? What other running back in the NFL reminds you of Kevin Smith?
A. Kevin definitely falls into that "gliding style" running back category. He won't wow you with how he hits the hole with his speed, but he's very smart in how he follows his blocks/waits for them to develop. Then once he hits the open field, he kind of glides away. That said, having seen all of his 80-plus yard runs his junior year at UCF, I never recall him getting caught from behind. If I had to pick an NFL back to compare him to, it would probably be current De'Angelo Williams and past O.J. Simpson.
Q2. What type of person is Kevin Smith off the field?
A. Off the field Kevin is that guy that everybody wants to be around. Always joking, always interacting and the center of attention without trying to be. I always loved watching him driving around with teammates in his neon purple Chevy Caprice Classic, gold toothed in the sun. He was always having a blast, no matter what he was doing. And extremely personable. Probably a product of being underestimated by people coming out of high school, but he never turned down an interview request or failed to answer his cell when I needed to get him, even when the spotlight started increasing on him last year.
Q3. I watched Smith in this year's bowl game and I remember the announcers saying that Smith was going to come back for his senior year. What happened that made Smith change his mind?
A. We've talked several times about it and he assures me that there wasn't some big thing to it. Seems that once the spotlight of the season was gone and he really had a chance to sit quietly and think about it, he reassesed what he was passing on. Helping out his mom and brother was a factor, but I think in the end he just decided it was time. I know it was hard because he truly loves UCF and had connected with the city. He could have easily waited, but the guy is fearless and isn't worried about the deep draft pool or anything. He wears his heart on the outside of his chest and speaks and makes decisions from it. So I'm inclined to take him at his word.
Q4. Smith had a heavy workload last year with 450 carries. Do you see that as a positive or negative as he heads into the NFL?
A. I think it's actuallly a positive because he has already shown himself to be durable. I think it would be a bigger issue if he'd stayed and did it again as a senior. He won't get 450 in the NFL anytime soon, so in a way he saved some wear and tear already in my opinion.
Q5. Who are some of the future NFL prospects that we should pay attention to on the 2008 UCF team?
A. It has to start with senior-to-be and CB Joe Burnett. He had a breakout freshmen year with lots of INTs and a few punt returns on special teams. He had some injuries that slowed him down as a sophomore, but he broke back out as junior and led C-USA and ranked high nationally in INTs and got back on track as a punt returner as well. Also an entire core of sophomore-to-be receivers led by A.J. Guyton, Kamar Aiken and Brian Watters.
Once again I want to thank Kyle for his time...
The Big East is one of the best conference tournaments...from the days of Patrick Ewing and Pearl Washington to the recent amazing performance of Gerry McNamara...this week's tournament starts Wednesday at Madison Square Garden with these match-ups...
Afternoon sessions
Noon - #8 Villanova (19-11) vs. #9 Syracuse (19-12)
The winner will probably make the tournament...the loser will have to hope and pray, but will more than likely be NIT bound...
2:00 - #5 West Virginia (22-9) vs. #12 Providence (15-15)
The Friars need to win just to make the NIT...won't happen...
Evening sessions
7:00 - #7 Pitt (22-9) vs. #10 Cincinnati (13-17)
This should be an easy one for the Panthers
9:00 - #6 Marquette (22-8) vs. # 11 Seton Hall (17-14)
Marquette did not look good on Saturday at Syracuse...Seton Hall must make it to the conference title game if they even want to consider the Big Dance...
Thursday
Afternoon Sessions
Noon - #1 Georgetown (25-4) vs. winner of Villanova-Syracuse
2:00 - #4 Connecticut (24-7) vs. winner of West Virginia-Providence
Evening sessions
7:00 - #2 Louisville (24-7) vs. winner of Pitt-Cincinnati
9:00 - #3 Notre Dame (24-6) vs. winner of Marquette-Seton Hall
Friday
7:00 - Georgetown winner vs. Connecticut winner
9:00 - Louisville winner vs. Notre Dame winner
Saturday
9:00 - Championship Game - ESPN
New York Times sports reporter Tyler Kepner wrties about Mariano Rivera and how he dealt with the death of a mentor... "When Rivera speaks of Heron, he mentions his willingness to give advice to anybody who asked. It is trait that has made Rivera as important a leader on the Yankees as Derek Jeter, the team’s designated captain." ... Tyler KepnerCleveland Plain Dealer sports columnist Bill Livingston writes where LeBron james ranks among the greats... "LeBron James is far and away the best player in the NBA, outpointing, outrebounding and outassisting Kobe Bryant, although Bryant might win the Most Valuable Player award as some kind of lifetime achievement." ... Bill LivingstonThe New York Times has Oscar Robertson write about his first games at Madison Square Garden... "In 1958, I was just another unsophisticated 19-year-old college sophomore from the provinces, looking forward to his first visit to the big city. I had not imagined it would be in a Cincinnati uniform." ... Oscar RobertsonDallas Morning News sports columnist Kevin Sherrington writes about the struggle of former Dallas Cowboy Buddy Dial... "Dial's story eventually became a landmark legal case. He was one of the first NFL players to be declared permanently disabled in 1993. His ex-wife eventually sued for half his monthly disability check, lost, then won on appeal." ... Kevin SherringtonHouston Chronicle sports columnist Richard Justice writes about Tracy McGrady and the red-hot Houston Rockets... "If this wasn't a perfect game, it was close. McGrady was on the floor for all 48 minutes, scored 41 points, handed out nine assists and grabbed six rebounds." ... Richard JusticeLos Angeles Times sports columnist T.J. Simers writes that he is not a Kobe-hater... "Everybody thinks I've got it in for the guy, angry people e-mailing all week to point out fans were even chanting for him in Sacramento, so get with it." ... T.J. SimersChicago Sun-Times sports columnist Jay Mariotti writes about the possibility of the Cubs playing their games on the Southside while Wrigley gets a facelift... "And they'll effectively tell Cubdom to go to hell, even if the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority -- which owns and operates The Cell for the people of the state -- rubber-stamps the blasphemous concept of the North Siders playing home games on the South Side while Wrigley Field is reconstructed." ... Jay Mariotti
