It seems like my readers enjoy this series "Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"...even two of my co-workers told me they thought Giada was hot...today's featured woman is the CNBC's Money Honey - Maria Bartiromo...
The Money Honey
Maria is the host of CNBC's "Closing Bell" from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. weekdays and is the host and managing editor for the nationally syndicated "Wall Street Journal Report with Maria Bartiromo"...in 2007, she was named one of the 100 most influential business journalists in the country...so we know that she knows money...
Maria was nicknamed the "Money Honey" during the boom years of the stock market in the late 1990s due to her striking looks...she was also nicknamed the "Econo Babe"...since the 90s, the nickname "Money Honey" has spread to refer to attractive female financial news reporters in general...showing her knowledge of business, Maria filed to trademark the term for herself...
Maria was born in 1967 and grew up in the Bay Ridge section of southern Brooklyn...she checked coats at her parents' Italian restaurant...she graduated from New York University with a BA degree in journalism and a minor in economics...
In 1999, the Money Honey married Jonathan Steinberg, son of fallen investor Saul Steinberg...she is not without some controversy concerning her dealings with some business associates...
My thoughts - I know the slighest thing about business, but many times I flip on "The Closin
g Bell" while I eat dinner just to check her out...Maria is not so much a babe as she is a classy babe...I also loved the clip of her throwing out the first pitch at a Yankees game last September...she fills out a pair of jeans nicely...so yes, the Money Honey is HOT in my book...this leads to the questions:
Do you think Maria Bartiromo is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments
Today's Draft Spotlight is on the New England Patriots who have the seventh overall pick...Mike Reiss of The Boston Globe was nice enough to take the time to respond to some questions....
Q1. I have to ask, how is the team recovering after the devastating loss in the Super Bowl? Are there any regrets or things they would have done differently?
A. The coaches and players are all saying the right thing regarding the Super Bowl loss. It's hard to truly tell how they are recovering from the loss. In terms of regrets or things they would have done differently, the theme has been if they had only made one more play, or one better coaching decision. It was within their grasp had that one play/decision had been made.
Q2. Who do you think the Patriots will select with the 7th overall pick? Is it a given that they will select a cornerback?
A. It's a tough question to answer without knowing who the first six players are, but I'd start by saying I think they'd like to trade down if possible. But if they can't, I think it will be a defensive player, probably someone to play in the front seven. I don't think it's a given they select a cornerback at 7, as they very well could find the best value at that position is in the second/third round.
Q3. If you were selecting for the team, who would you draft with the 7th overall pick?
A. That's tough, because I don't know who is picked before them, and also I haven't extensively scouted the players. If they felt a linebacker was there that could help them get faster and more athletic, I'd go in that direction. So I guess I'll say Ohio State's Vernon Gholston, because he'd be an outside linebacker for them.
Q4. Last season, the Patriots did not draft well besides their first selection of Brandon Merriweather. The other six drafted players have either been cut or hurt. How has the 2007 draft affected the team over the long haul?
A. I can see why some might look at it and say the Patriots did not draft well, but I think it's important to account for the fact they traded a second-round pick for Wes Welker and a fourth-rounder for Randy Moss. I count those players as draft picks, because they were acquired with chips that would have otherwise went toward a college player. They also traded a third-round pick into the 2008 draft. So I think that adds a totally different context to what they did.
They had one draft pick in rounds 1-3 (Meriweather, first round) and the rest in rounds 4-7. While I'm sure they would have liked to hit on some of those later-round picks -- and with the success of teams like the Giants in that area, it shouldn't be dismissed -- those are lower-percentage plays anyway. So all in all, I don't think the 2007 draft was as bad as it seems on the surface. As for what it affects the team over the long haul, with Welker and Moss signed for multiple years, Meriweather primed to emerge, and sixth-rounder Mike Richardson having a shot to make something happens, I think they'll reap some nice benefits.
Q5. Who are some sleeper players that New England may take a chance on later in the draft who can help the team?
A. I'm still becoming more familiar with the prospects, but a few that caught my eye in the mid to late rounds were QB Josh Johnson, DL Keilen Dykes, DL Red Bryant, OL Mackenzy Bernadeau, LB Jeremy Leman, RB Justin Forcett, RB Steve Slaton, WR Danny Amendola.
Once again, I want to thank Mike for his time...
The most historic golf event begins this Thursday when The Master's opens play in Augusta, Georgia...Mike Elliott of The Tampa Tribune was nice enough to respond to our questions about this year's event...
Q1. Straight out, do you see Tiger Woods winning this year's Master's? Why?
A. Yes, I’d take Tiger vs. the Field. If you built a golf course to set up for Tiger’s strengths, it would look a whole lot like Augusta National. Even when he does not have “my A game,’’ Tiger can labor his way through a Masters as well as most tour players can on their best days. He’s that much better than the rest of then.
Q2. Is Tiger playing the best golf you have ever seen?
A. Too early to say this is his best golf, but for him to actually acknowledge that a Grand Slam is do-able, suggests he is not displeased by how he’s playing.
Q3. Who are some "sleeper" picks (golfers) that we the fans should pay attention to?
A. Adam Scott seems to be this year’s flavor of the day for people trying to pick a surprise. Luke Donald, and Justin Rose could play well. Vijay Singh should be considered.
Q4. Sergio Garcia has yet to win a major. I have read recently that he could surprise some people and win The Master's. What are your thoughts?
A. Personally, I cannot imagine Sergio putting well enough for four days on Augusta National greens to even be close.
Q5. What do you see "Lefty" Phil Mickelson doing this year?
A. Phil Mickelson probably is the best player in the world right now after Tiger. He should win a couple of events this year. Might even be in contention this week.
Q5a. I have to ask, who would you take in their prime, Tiger or Jack? Why?
A. I don’t think we have even seen Tiger’s prime. Baring injury, Tiger will break every record Jack ever imagined. And saying that, Jack Nicklaus is the standard every golfer even hopes to be measured by. Until Tiger’s finished.
Once again, I thank Mike Elliott for his time...
A legend in Cleveland broadcasting and journalism died on Sunday...Gib Shanley, the voice of the Cleveland Browns, was 76-years-old...as a kid growing up in the late 1970s and 80s, I would listen faithfully each Sunday to Shanley and his partner, the late Nev Chandler, announce the Browns games...even if the game was televised, I would still plug in the earpiece to my dad's transistor radio and listen to Shanley and Chandler...
Here is what former Browns running back Greg Pruitt said about Shanley, "As a broadcaster, Gib was one of the few people you could really trust not to take your words out of context. We always trusted him with our interviews. I’m greatly saddened by his passing. I want the family to know my heart and prayers go out to him. We lost a great man.”
Bob Dolgan of The Cleveland Plain Dealer writes about Shanley and the day he burned the Iranian flag in 1979... "Shanley was merely a successful Cleveland sportscaster until Nov. 8, 1979. That night be burned a flag of Iran on television and became a folk hero. The incident took place while Iran was holding a group of Americans hostage in Tehran. Near the end of his broadcast on WEWS Channel 5, Shanley said, "I know this isn't sports, but I'm going to do it anyway." ... Bob Dolgan
Every Monday until the NFL Draft, Stiles Points will be showcasing a mock draft...these are the players who I think will be taken by each team...
1. Dolphins - Chris Long, de, Virginia - everything I read indicates that Long can play DE or LB...Parcells will like that versatality...
2. Rams - Jake Long, ot. Michigan - the Rams need to get ready for the soon-to-be retirement of Orland Pace...plus Long will help open holes for Steven Jackson...
3. Falcons - Matt Ryan, qb, Boston College - most publications have the ATL taking Glenn Dorsey...but the Falcons need a QB bad after the Vick/Schaub disaster...
4. Raiders - Darren McFadden, rb, Arkansas - the publications have them taking D. Mac...it will be tough passing on Dorsey especially because the Raiders have a glaring need at DT...but I agree that Al Davis cannot pass up McFadden...
5. Chiefs - Ryan Clady, ot, Boise State - Dorsey will be so tempting to take because he was not expected to be here...but Herm Edwards is a smart coach and he knows he needs O-line help ASAP...
6. Jets - Glenn Dorsey, dt, LSU - the Jets fans will go nuts with excitement as this stud falls into their laps...
7. Patriots - Vernon Gholston, de, Ohio State - the Pats need to go with a defensive player...Gholston is a solid pick...
8. Ravens - Mike Jenkins, C. Florida, cb - I could see this pick being traded...they need a QB and it is too early to take Brohm...the CB position is an area of need for this team...
9. Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, dt, Southern Cal - is it just me or are the Bengals always drafting defensive players every year in the first round and their defense still sucks!?!?...
10. Saints - Derrick Harvey, de, Florida - Saints need to plug up many holes in their defense...
11. Bills - Devin Thomas, wr, Michigan State - Buffalo lacks another playmaker at WR...
12. Broncos - Chris Williams, ot, Vanderbilt - Denver needs to retool their aging offensive line...plus they lost Matt Lepsis to retirement...
13. Panthers - Branden Albert, og, Virginia - Albert is the latest Kiper special...in fact, Mel has Albert going to KC at #5...
14. Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, rb, Illinois - this is a no-brainer pick...Cedric Benson sucks...
15. Lions - Leodis McKelvin, cb, Troy - CB is a position of need...they are fortunate there are many quality CBs this year...however, don't be surprised if Matt Millen goes with Mario Manningham here either...(just joking Lions fans)...
16. Cardinals - Keith Rivers, lb, Southern Cal - the Cardinals may have other needs, but they cannot pass on Rivers who is a top 10 talent...
17. Vikings - Brian Brohm, qb, Louisville - originally I had them taking a D-lineman, but all indications point to Brohm...and it is understandable being their QB situation is not the best...
18. Texans - Felix Jones, rb, Arkansas - the Texans RBs are all garbage...plus by taking Felix, they will screw over Jerry Jones who supposedly covets him...
19. Eagles - DeSean Jackson, wr, Cal - the Eagles lack playmakers at the WR spot...plus, Jackson is also great on kick returns...
20. Buccaneers - Malcolm Kelly, wr, Oklahoma - here goes the run on WRs...Kelly is a big, physical receiver...
21. Redskins - Mario Manningham, wr, Michigan - M2 does not have the great Combine numbers, but he is a person who can stretch the field...
22. Cowboys - Jonathan Stewart, rb, Oregon - Stew will be out until late August, but that will give him time to study the playbook...plus, the Cowboys need him in December and January, not September...
23. Steelers - Jeff Otah, ot, Pitt - Steelers need offensive line help...they stay at home and take Otah...
24. Titans - Limas Sweed, wr, Texas - the Titans have needed a quality WR for the last two years...they keep Vince happy by getting a fellow Longhorn...
25. Seahawks - Philip Merling, de, Clemson - Patrick Kearney is getting a tad old...
26. Jaguars - Kentwan Balmer, dt, North Carolina - this is not a sexy pick, but most of the Jags picks are not your Jessical Alba-type selections...
27. Chargers - Gosder Cherilus, ot, Boston College - versatile player who can play either tackle spot...
28. Cowboys - James Hardy, wr, Indiana - Jerry Jones saw how Plaxico Burress can be a game changer...Hardy is in that same mold at 6'6"...
29. 49ers - Calais Campbell, de, The U - this is a boon-or-bust pick...they kid has talent, but he could also be out of the league in 2 years...
30. Packers - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, cb, Tennessee State - DRC is a difficult player to place...he is a 6'2" corner who runs the 40 in 4.3 or faster...he is almost freak-like...I just read though that teams are scared of him because he has only 1 kidney...Packers need CB help after Eli sliced 'em to pieces in the title game...
31. Patriots - FORFEIT
32. Giants - Dan Connor, lb, Penn State - this guy will probably get selected earlier, but if he is still there, the G-men will celebrate...
Pete Thamel of The New York Times writes about William Wesley...never heard of him?...then you should read about this powerful man in sports... "In recent years, he has extended a puzzling and powerful reach throughout sports. A confidant of Michael Jordan, a close friend of James and a sideline presence from summer basketball games to the N.B.A. finals to the Super Bowl, Wesley has gained power through his connections. He has the ear of N.B.A. owners and junior high phenoms alike. He had strong enough ties in the music and sports worlds to introduce James and Jay-Z." ... Pete ThamelHarvey Araton of The New York Times writes why he would rather cover the Women's Final Four instead of the Men's... "Here I am at another Women’s Final Four, an event I have been covering, it seems, since the days of six-on-six, when defensive players were not allowed to play offense, and vice versa, or just before Pat Summitt and Geno Auriemma met for lunch to reinvent the sport." ... Harvey AratonMike Lupica of The New York Daily News writes how Memphis stud Derrick Rose would look good in a Knicks uniform... "The shot that really ended it, the shot made by a player who could begin to change everything at Madison Square Garden if the Knicks could ever get him, came with a little over three minutes left at the Alamadome. Derrick Rose, the best player in this game against UCLA and probably the best in the country, this year's freshman guard at the Final Four, came hard at the basket one last time and then put up this shot with all this playground spin on it and of course it went in and now Memphis was ahead by 11." ... Mike LupicaJohn "Junior" Feinstein of the Washington Post writes about how this year's freshmen in basketball will soon be wearing an NBA uniform next season... "It would be wonderful if we could watch Rose and Love for another three years at this level, not to mention players such as Indiana's Eric Gordon, Southern Cal's O.J. Mayo and Kansas State's Michael Beasley -- all freshmen who almost undoubtedly will be NBA rookies this fall. It would be great to get to know them better as people, to watch them grow and mature and become comfortable as public figures. By the time Grant Hill graduated from Duke in 1994 after playing in three Final Fours, most college basketball fans felt as if he was an adopted son. But today's reality is that no one wants to wait to get rich anymore than anyone wants to wait for a dial-up Internet connection." ... John FeinsteinEd Hardin of the Greensboro News-Record writes how North Carolina got ambushed in Saturday's semi-final game... "With a howling Kansas mob awaiting, the top-ranked Tar Heels walked into an ambush at the Alamodome that will go down in Carolina history as one of the greatest defeats ever. Kansas ran up a 28-point lead in the first half, withstood a UNC comeback in the second, then ran away for a stunning 84-66 victory before wild-eyed Kansas fans." ... Ed HardinJason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star writes that Kansas' whoopin of Roy Williams made many Jayhawks fans happy... "The Kansas Jayhawks served Roy Williams revenge steaming hot, blazing to a 28-point advantage to open their Final Four semifinal showdown and settling their emotional divorce from Williams on terms KU fans can live with." ... Jason WhitlockJeffrey Flanagan of The Kansas Star writes how CBS' Jim Nantz is dealing with his father's illness... "Nantz said it feels OK these days to discuss his father’s illness, so much so that Nantz wrote a memoir Always By My Side, which looks at not only his broadcasting career but the struggles inherent in coping with someone with Alzheimer’s. The book comes out in early May." ... Jeffrey FlanaganScott Cacciola of the Memphis Commercial Appeal writes how Memphis' Chris Douglas-Roberts is tired of people saying the Tigers are not that good... "All season, the University of Memphis has been fueled by what the team's players and coaches describe as disrespect, by doubters, by people who have no idea what the Tigers do, or how they do it, or why. But during the Tigers' romp through the NCAA Tournament, this team is turning skeptics into believers by making roadkill of opponents. And sometimes they do it by posterizing all-Americans." ... Scott CacciolaT.J. Simers of The Los Angeles Times writes that UCLA head coach Ben Howland should not take the fall for UCLA's third straight loss in the Final Four... "Second-guess, if you like, but Memphis was just better than UCLA. It happens. That's usually why only one team emerges the champion, and three others go home wondering what happened." ... T.J. SimersJay Mariotti of the Chicago Sun-Times writes about Memphis star and Chicago native Derrick Rose... "He is painfully modest, which is shocking in a way, knowing his talents are the loudest and most dynamic in college basketball. Everyone wants to talk about Derrick Rose except Derrick Rose, who actually winced by his locker Saturday night when it was suggested he could go down in history as a freshman who leads his team to a national championship." ... Jay MariottiDoug Feinberg of the Associate Press writes how Tennessee head coach Pat Summitt admits that Candace Parker is the best playe she ever coached... "I went into the season thinking she's one of the best ever," Summitt said. "Now that we're approaching the end of her career -- I've coached Cheryl Miller, Chamique (Holdsclaw), Lynette Woodard, Nancy (Lieberman), Anne Donovan -- Parker is the best." ... Doug Feinberg
After being at a conference for the last two days and listening to crime stats, I have been unable to get any interviews this week....so I am closing this hectic week with another "Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"....today's featured woman is Giada...I don't even have to mention her last name...
Giada De Laurentiis
Giada Pamela De Benedetti was born in Rome, Italy in 1970...first off, how in the freakin world do you get a middle name of Pamela if you were born in Rome????....once again, she is an "oldtimer" like me...that is a plus...
Giada may technically be a midget as she sizes up at "just under five feet two"...she is a self-proclaimed chocoholic...you know what that mean?!?!...seriously, if you know what that means, let me know too...
She currently hosts Food Network programs Everyday Italian, Behind the Bash
, Giada's Weekend Getaways, and Giada in Paradise...she also appears regularly as a contributor and guest co-host on NBC's Today...
My thoughts - I did not know she is only 5'2" until this report...even though she is a midget, I still give her 5 stars and label her as HOT...she has that European hotness that you cannot find just anywhere...for example, most American women would never pose in a white dress surrounded by smashed tomatoes...heck, I bought one of her cookbooks because she was hot looking on the cover...so she is worth at least $19.95 to me...this leads to the questions:
Do you think Giada De Laurentiis is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments!!!
"Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"....today's featured woman is Cobie Smulders....many of you are probably wondering, "Kobe who?"....it is Cobie with a "C"....Cobie plays Robin in the television series "How I Met Your Mother"....
Cobie Smulders - Robin
Today is actually Cobie's 26th birthday...she is a native of Vancouver, British Columbia....she finished high school in 2000 with high honors, being voted "Most Respected"...she continued modelling for a few years before settling in Los Angeles to pursue an acting career...Cobie can also speak fluent French...
Before joining "Mother", her first permanent series role was in the short-lived ABC series "Veritas: The Quest"....enough of the yada, yada, yada...
My thoughts - she seems like someone who would always be depressed about things...but you know what, who cares!!!...she is clearly hot!!!...to me, I think she gets overshadowed by that Hannigan chick on "Mother"...Cobie needs to be the main focus of a show if she wants the props...so this leads to the questions:
Do you think Cobie Smulders is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments!!!
Because I will be busy with my actual job, this feature will appear on Wednesday and Thursday..."Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something" spotlights the fast rising news anchor Amy Robach...
Amy Robach - The Goddess of Love
Before becoming an anchor on MSNBC and weekend co-host of "The Today Show" our starlet was a former Miss Georgia...one photographer described her as "The Goddess of Love"...
Actually she is not from the South...she was born in 1973 in Michigan...after winning various pageants, Robach moved into the broadcast news business...she is married and has two daughters...recently during an episode of "The Today Show" she mentioned she has a fear of clowns....
My thoughts - She caught my eye a few years back when I was watching MSNBC...it does not surprise me to see her on "The Today Show"...Katie Couric was known to show 
off her legs...well, it looks like NBC found someone to take Ms. Couric's place as Robach often shows off her shapely legs...this is an easy one, YES she is hot!!!..so this leads to the questions:
Do you think Amy Robach is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments!!!
Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"....Graig from Money Shot requested a feature on the chick fromm "Cold Case"...her real name is Kathryn Morris who plays the character Lilly Rush....
Kathryn Morris
Here is something that interests me...she was born January 28, 1969...so we are both the same age...
Morris' first breakthrough came in 1997 on some show called "Pensacola: Wings of Gold" when she played the role of Lt. Annalisa "Stinger" Lindstrom...never heard of the show...in 1999 she played the role of Najara on Xena...Hmmmm....
There is some mystery with her background...some sources state she was born in Cincinnati, but CBS reports she was born in Dallas...she was raised in the Churches of Christ religion in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, and toured the country in the family's gospel band...she attended two colleges in the Philadelphia area...
Our featured girl was briefly engaged to some financial hotshot in 2003...they are no longer together...so she is 39-years-old and single, and I am 39-years-old and single....let's do the math!!!...anyway...
My thoughts - I think a lot of guys don't find her hot because she is very light skinned and thin...but hey, as a 39-year-old single man, you cannot get picky...yeh, I would list her as mildly hot...here is my barometer - if she was not famous, and I saw her at a bar, would I buy her a drink and ask her out?...Yes!...so this leads to the questions:
Do you think Kathryn Morris is hot?
If so, why doesn't she get the publicity?
Am I missing something?
Leave your comments!!! 
American League
East
1. Yankees - people think this is a declining franchise...not so fast my friends!!!...
2. Red Sox - Beckett must stay healthy...Manny & Big Papi are one of the best 1-2 punches ever...
3. Blue Jays - Toronto is really trying to catch the Yanks and Sox...
4. Rays - what the heck, why not the Rays?...
5. Orioles - it is sad that this once proud franchise is just a mess...Angelos should sell the team to an owner who cares...
Central
1. Tigers - finally Illitch put money into this team...it will payoff this year as they get back into the playoffs...
2. Indians - the Tribe will not go away...they will be a thorn in the Tigers side all year...
3. White Sox - there is a dropoff between the top 2 and the rest of the division...didn't this team win the World Series just 3 years ago?...
4. Royals - finally K.C. starts to show some life...maybe, just maybe they can contend next year?...
5. Twins - this team is reloading as they get a new ballpark in two years...give them time...
West
1. Angels - the sexy pick is the Mariners...but the Angels are loaded and they may have the best manager in the game...
2. Mariners - the future looks bright for the Mariners...they will be competative...they have the best closer in the game in J.J. Putz...
3. Rangers - I like their move of getting Josh Hamilton for centerfield...
4. Athletics - Moneyball will only take you so far...this team needs a new stadium in order to compete...
National League
East
1. Phillies - if the Phils get off to a slow start, Charlie Manuel is gone because this team is built to win, and win NOW!!!...they may need to get a true closer during the year - Lidge is a headcase...
2. Braves - Bobby Cox always finds a way to win...never count out the Braves as long as he is the manager...
3. Mets - people expect a coronation for the Mets...not so fast!...
4. National - the new ballpark will bring excitement...
5. Marlins - I love Hanley Ramirez...but their young pitchers have been hurt...that has slowed up the rebuilding process...
Central
1. Cubs - after a great 2007, the Cubbies were a clunker in the post-season...Fukodome is supposed to be the latest Japanese stud...will Kerry Woods hold up as the closer?...
2. Brewers - they need closer Eric Gagne to return to his prime...they hitting is there...
3. Reds - the Reds have some young dogs coming up...if they develop, the Reds will be contenders in 2 years...
4. Cardinals - I forgot about this team...shows how fast they have fallen since winning the World Series two years ago...
5. Astros - Houston is rebuilding too...
6. Pirates - this franchise pisses me off...they are rebuilding every freaking year...the owner needs to either open his wallet and make some smart signings or sell the fucking team!!!...
West
1. Padres - everyone is down on the Pads for some reason?...they just missed the playoffs last year...I like the $1 million gamble on Mark Prior...
2. Diamondbacks - this may be the richest team with young talent...the Big Unit will never get those 16 wins for 300...
3. Rockies - they will get off to a hot start, but fade...
4. Dodgers - Torre will need a year to get things in order...plus, he will have C.C. Sabathia next season too...
5. Giants - year 1 A.B. (After Bonds)...
ALDS
Yankees over Angels
Red Sox over Tigers
ALCS
Yankees over Red Sox
NLDS
Phillies over Brewers
Cubs over Padres
NLCS
Phillies over Cubs
World Series
Yankees over Phillies
Bill Shaikin of The Los Angeles Times writes about last night's Dodgers-Red Sox game at The Coliseum in which 115,300 fans attended... Bill ShaikinTom Boswell of the Washington Post writes about the Nationals new ballpark which opens tonight... "What hit Washington this weekend is a phenomenon that has swept America and transformed baseball since 1991. That year, the White Sox opened a new ballpark. What a mess. The upper deck was so steep fans got dizzy. The next season, Oriole Park at Camden Yards opened and that changed everything. The golden age of ballparks had begun. How does baseball survive scandals, work stoppages, rising ticket prices and astronomical salaries? Why has the old game broken attendance records almost every season, including last year? The answer: It's the glorious ballparks." ... Tom BoswellGordon Edes of the Boston Globe writes that despite two World Series titles, Red Sox manager Terry Francona does not get the recognition unlike his Boston counterpart Bill Belichick... "But in an area where the football coach, Bill Belichick of the Patriots, is routinely regarded as a genius, Brennaman's spoof of Francona's critics was a humorous reminder that the Sox manager does not yet elicit similar acclaim for his skills, despite a résumé as glittering as any manager the club has ever had." ... Gordon EdesRichard Sandomir of the New York Times writes how Yankee Stadium will be demolished after the season - with dignity... "The demolitions will not resemble those of Ebbets Field or the Polo Grounds in two significant ways. There will be no wrecking balls, which are generally not allowed in the city. And explosive charges will not be set off to blow the ballparks to smithereens, or more technically, to implode them. The city also prohibits implosions." ... Richard SandomirAnthony McCarron of the New York Daily News writes about past Yankee Opening Days... "It looked like a giant cathedral," says Coleman, who was a Yankee from 1949-57. "When you're in close, it's monstrous and it looks gorgeous. I think it's the most electric ballpark ever put together by human hands. "It's an imperial park, majestic, spectacular. It's something we won't see again." ... Anthony McCarronMarc Lancaster of the Tampa Tribune writes about the Tampa Rays three stud starters... "Everyone understands that a successful rotation is the cornerstone of a winning team, though the Rays have become familiar with that principle mostly through its inverse. Where for the better part of a decade the Rays' No. 1 starter often could be defined as the lesser of five evils, they no longer have to be embarrassed about the arms they roll out to start each game." ... Marc LancasterThomas Stinson of the Atlanta Journal Constitution writes that Bobby Cox may be in the last year of his contract, but he is still the rock behind the Braves... "This may be his last. Cox turns 67 in May. He is a hands-down Hall of Famer, a four-time manager of the year — in three different decades — with nothing left to prove. His contract is in its final year and he suggested last spring — and quickly withdrew — the notion that this would be his last season." ... Thomas StinsonDejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette writes how a winning season in Pittsburgh may disrupt the team's plans to unload veterans... "To grasp why a successful 2008 could represent a serious disruption for the Pirates, it is necessary to understand what they hope, ultimately, to achieve. Major League Baseball's economic system allows teams to control all players' rights for their first six years in the majors. After that, they can declare free agency, and their cost can rise exponentially." ... Dejan KovacevicPaul Hoynes of The Cleveland Plain Dealer writes that Indians manager Eric Wedge understands the difference between managing and coaching... "Wedge was named AL Manager of the Year by the Baseball Writers Association of America after the Indians won 96 games and reached Game 7 of the ALCS last season. He appreciated the award, but doesn't think it helped him reach more players this spring than last spring." ... Paul HoynesShawn Windsor of the Detroit Free Press writes about the Tigers newest slugger and the face of the franchise... "Monday, on Opening Day, the 24-year-old Cabrera is to unleash that swing in Detroit, a swing that sent season-ticket sales soaring this past winter, a swing that sent national baseball analysts swooning, declaring the Tigers favorites to get back to the World Series for the second time in three years, a swing that just cost owner Mike Ilitch $152.3 million, a staggering deal for an athlete with staggering talent." ... Shawn WindsorJohn Kiesewetter of the Cincinnati Enquirer writes about the season long tribute to Joe Nuxhall who died in November... "The Ol' Left-hander won't be around for Opening Day, but it will be hard to miss the Joe Nuxhall tributes this season. Here are some of the honors and events planned for Nuxhall, the Reds broadcaster and former player who died in November at age 79." ... John KiesewetterTom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes that the Brewers have some attitude this season with their slugger combo of Fielder-Braun... "Yost has good reason to trust in the Fielder-Braun combination. In 2007, no two teammates hit more than their combined 84 home runs, despite the fact that Braun played with a two-month mulligan after coming from the minors at the end of May." ... Tom HaudricourtChris De Luca of the Chicago Sun-Times writes about the White Sox newest stud... "Yes, ''The Cuban Missile'' -- Alexei Ramirez -- has landed in Guillen's lineup as the starting center fielder." ... Chris De LucaDavid Haugh of the Chicago Tribune writes that this may be the century the Cubs finally win the World Series... "Seriously, most of the half-dozen or so futurists asked to ponder the next 10 decades of baseball agreed that changes to the game will include the Cubs winning a World Series in that span. It could be in 2008. Or 2088. Whether it will come before the next scheduled appearance of Halley's Comet in 2061, nobody could say." ... David HaughJoe Posnanski of the Kansas City Star writes that new Royals manager Trey Hillman has plans for the team... "He doesn’t stop. That’s what they notice about Trey Hillman. He doesn’t stop, never stops, ever, he’s up before the farmers and newspaper delivery folks, he’s hitting the elliptical machine and jabbering about lineups, he’s video conferencing with his family, he’s scouring the Internet for baseball news, he’s scribbling ideas in his notebook, he’s watching minor-leaguers, he’s bouncing around asking questions, crazy questions, like what base the pitcher should cover when there are runners on first and third and a foul ball is hit behind first base." ... Joe PosnanskiJoe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch features the Cardinals new general manager, John Mozeliak... "John Mozeliak understands media. He listens to talk radio in all its informative, entertaining and puerile forms. He reads punctuation. He realizes the court of public opinion's sway." ... Joe StraussBrian McTaggart of the Houston Chronicle writes how the Astros are starting over under new manager Cecil Cooper... "The goal was to upgrade the team's speed and defense, two areas in which the Astros had struggled in recent years. McLane also wanted more firepower in the lineup. McLane feels the Astros achieved all those things in a whirlwind offseason like none other the club has seen." ... Brian McTaggartLarry Stone of The Seattle Times writes how the Mariners' Ichiro is now entering his eighth season in Seattle and his exciting plays have become routine... "The days of joyous discovery are long past. No longer do we rub our eyes in amazement at what we just saw from Ichiro — the bat wizardry, the rocket arm, the lightning first step out of the box, seemingly while still swinging." ... Larry StoneDylan Hernandez of The Los Angeles Times writes that new Dodgers manager Joe Torre is still learning about his team... "Joe Torre admits he didn't spend as much time with the nucleus of his club as he would've liked, that he's relying on the eyes and ears of his coaches more than usual to make decisions. He has no clue when his wounded players will return or how much of a problem their bodies will give them over the next six or seven months." ... Dylan HernandezNick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic writes that Diamondbacks manager Doug Melvin knows how to mix managing with psychology... "Managers are analyzed ad nauseam for their batting orders and pitching changes, but often hidden from view is one of the more important parts of the job. Not only is Melvin a strategist and evaluator, he dabbles in psychology, balancing egos and maintaining the sometimes-fragile confidence of 25 players through the ups and downs of a long season." ... Nick Piecoro
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 seems like my readers enjoy this series "Is She Hot or Am I Missing Something?"...even two of my co-workers told me they thought Giada was hot...today's featured woman is the CNBC's Money Honey - Maria Bartiromo...
g Bell" while I eat dinner just to check her out...Maria is not so much a babe as she is a classy babe...I also loved the clip of her throwing out the first pitch at a Yankees game last September...she fills out a pair of jeans nicely...so yes, the Money Honey is HOT in my book...this leads to the questions:
