New Phillies manager Gabe Kapler was on WIP Sports Radio this morning with Angelo and crew. Other then hearing brief snippets of interviews, his press conference after he was hired, and selected cuts ( especially about coconut oil), I didn't know much about him until today.
Previous reports were that he was kind of weird, tasting ice cream but not swallowing it and spitting it out, a real nut about his health and a work-out fiend. He says a lot of those reports are true, but a lot have been exaggerated as well.
He came off this morning as honest, fun, refreshing, positive and energetic.Instead of striving to be .500 as Pete Mackanin proclaimed out of spring training last year, Kapler wants to win from Day One.
He plans not to force his health ideas on the players, only to "educate" them and give them choices. And if a player doesn't hustle ( think Herrera and Franco), he will have a man-to-man, behind closed doors meeting with that player, not let it fester, or wait til the player comes to the manager, as MacKanin did.
Anyway, I liked what I heard from Kaoler this morning. With the core of young players with the Phillies now, and ready to be promoted soon, it may be an exciting summer at the ballpark in 2018.
Hopefully his positive attitude and refreshing ideas translates onto the field and makes for more excitement- and wins- for the future.
I'm willing to give him a chance. And although GM Matt Klentak still isn't on my Christmas card list, he may have made a good hire with Kapler. Time will tell.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, EAGLES, FLYERS
* The Sixers beat the Wizards at home last night by 5 points, but were cruising by 15 with only 7 minutes left when the Wiz started fouling Ben Simmons. So bad, that Simmons shot 24 free throws in the 4th quarter, making half of them. Simmons shot 29 free throws for the entire game.
This may be a new formula to beat the Sixers. Like the old "Hack-a-Shaq", Simmons may now be the target late in the game.
Either take Simmons out of the game in the 4th quarter or, better yet, Simmons needs to make most of those free shots. teams will soon stop that tactic.
Joel Embiid played last night, scoring 28 points. But the won't play tonight in Boston for a key game with the Celtics.
When will Embiid be allowed to play back-to-back games? He's young and supposedly healthy, so why is the Sixers' medical staff limiting his minutes and games?
The team goes into Boston tonight without all its bullets in their guns. Doesn't seem fair.
****************************************************************************
The Eagles will be leaving soon for the west coast and won't be back for two weeks. Sunday night in Seattle, next week in Los Angeles ( By the way, the Rams game will not be flexed after all. It will remain on Fox at 4:25), then a bus trip up the turnpike to New York to play the Giants.
The Birds are close to 6 point favorites- in Seattle, one of the toughest places to play in football. Vegas is begging the bettor to take the Seahawks, surely a sure bet at home, with points?
That number tells you that Philly should win the game.
If the Eagles' defense can contain Seattle QB Russell Wilson in the pocket, Cox, Jerrigans and the Eagle D should dominate a poor Seahawk offensive line.
Could the Eagles be 11-1 by midnight on Sunday night? Who's gonna beat them?
Some national media are asking, are the Philadelphia Eagles for real? Who have they beaten? The next two weeks, on the road against good teams, should convince the doubters.
*************************************************************************
The Flyers have all week to stew about losing 9 in a row. They don't play until Saturday against the Bruins. GM Ron Hexstall doesn't sound like he will fire coach Dave Hakstol soon. We will see if he makes any personnel changes. And he still believes the Orange and Black will make the playoffs.
Maybe. But right now, unless these young players turn it around and the veterans step up their game, the Flyers will be buried by Christmas.
This may be a new formula to beat the Sixers. Like the old "Hack-a-Shaq", Simmons may now be the target late in the game.
Either take Simmons out of the game in the 4th quarter or, better yet, Simmons needs to make most of those free shots. teams will soon stop that tactic.
Joel Embiid played last night, scoring 28 points. But the won't play tonight in Boston for a key game with the Celtics.
When will Embiid be allowed to play back-to-back games? He's young and supposedly healthy, so why is the Sixers' medical staff limiting his minutes and games?
The team goes into Boston tonight without all its bullets in their guns. Doesn't seem fair.
****************************************************************************
The Eagles will be leaving soon for the west coast and won't be back for two weeks. Sunday night in Seattle, next week in Los Angeles ( By the way, the Rams game will not be flexed after all. It will remain on Fox at 4:25), then a bus trip up the turnpike to New York to play the Giants.
The Birds are close to 6 point favorites- in Seattle, one of the toughest places to play in football. Vegas is begging the bettor to take the Seahawks, surely a sure bet at home, with points?
That number tells you that Philly should win the game.
If the Eagles' defense can contain Seattle QB Russell Wilson in the pocket, Cox, Jerrigans and the Eagle D should dominate a poor Seahawk offensive line.
Could the Eagles be 11-1 by midnight on Sunday night? Who's gonna beat them?
Some national media are asking, are the Philadelphia Eagles for real? Who have they beaten? The next two weeks, on the road against good teams, should convince the doubters.
*************************************************************************
The Flyers have all week to stew about losing 9 in a row. They don't play until Saturday against the Bruins. GM Ron Hexstall doesn't sound like he will fire coach Dave Hakstol soon. We will see if he makes any personnel changes. And he still believes the Orange and Black will make the playoffs.
Maybe. But right now, unless these young players turn it around and the veterans step up their game, the Flyers will be buried by Christmas.
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
IN THE NEWS- 3D PRINTED SHOES MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR KIDS WITH DISABILITIES
This story is from Disability World...
Entrepreneur Melissa Fuller, from The University of New South Wales, is 3D-printing low-cost mobility braces for children with disabilities.
At 17, Melissa left her Western Sydney high school with no idea about what she wanted to do.
Twelve years later, she is co-founder of an entrepreneurial group of designers, engineers and allied health professionals who use 3D printing to manufacture customised posture and mobility equipment for children with disabilities. The company has dubbed the innovation "Magic Shoes".
The design and manufacture of these ankle and foot orthoses is poised to be faster and cheaper than traditionally manufactured support boots and shoes.
Melissa also spends two days a week working with university students, alumni and staff who approach the center with ideas for new inventions or processes.
Melissa started her working life in a very different setting. She had a part-time job sweeping the floor in a printing factory and made her own luck by learning every aspect of the business, from cutting posters to operating printing machines and-managing clients.
After ten years, she decided she could no longer ignore the nagging doubts about the social and environmental impact of producing advertising graphics for products she felt people didn't really need.
By then, 3D printing was radically changing the business landscape by creating durable, safe products cheaper and faster than traditional manufacturing.
"I saw 3D printing as my tool for changing the way we design and manufacture things," says Melissa about her shift from mainstream business to the world of social entrepreneurs.
When she looks back at the path she took to get to this point, she's not so surprised at how it worked out.
'My parents are very altruistic people. We come from humble beginnings and I tend to be quite entrepreneurial by spirit so for me to be a social entrepreneur is a perfect fit for my skills," says Melissa.
With a couple of friends, she formed the Three Farm network and traveled around Australia teaching disadvantaged communities how to use 3D technology.
That led to the formation of Makers Place in the inner Sydney suburb of Waterloo, a community facility that provides people with access to the tools and equipment needed to fix things and invent new ones while sharing information and ideas with others at the center.
It was here Melissa met Johan Du Plessis, who was working with people with disabilities and realised his engineering experience could help solve some of the problems they faced.
And so AbilityMate was born.
Establishing a business more focused on a social outcome than profit is not without its challenges,Melissa says.
"When we started we were 3D printing everything for everyone and that was not sustainable," she recalls.
With $20,000 of seed funding and access to an extensive mentor network from disability-focused impact accelerator Remarkable- a division of Cerebral Palsy Australia- the team realised they needed to focus on one area and do it well.
They choose 3D printing of ankle and foot orthoses for children with disabilities.
Traditionally, making orthoses has been slow and expensive. Children suffered the discomfort of having their limbs set in plaster to make a cast, then manual fabrication of a shoe or boot could take weeks.
Today, a child's limb can be scanned in seconds and 3D printing can produce a shoe within a couple of days, freeing orthotists to help more children.
AbilityMate recently launched a crowd-funding campaign to pay for things such as materials testing and Therapeutic Goods Administration approval, raising $97,000 in just one month from 310 community backers.
It was a "fantastic head start" for the company, which is continuing to raise money to complete medical trials of the "Magic Shoes".. upgrade one of its Sydney clinics and release open-source blueprints for the shoes.
The company is building an online platform based on the concept of designing globally and manufacturing locally. "Magic Shoes" will be the first product to be made available through AbilityMate's platform where approved 3D printing hubs anywhere in the world can sign on and get paid to make assertive devices.
"We want to solve this problem for children with a disability, make money from the solution, invest that back into the business and share what we have learnt," says Melissa.
Entrepreneur Melissa Fuller, from The University of New South Wales, is 3D-printing low-cost mobility braces for children with disabilities.
At 17, Melissa left her Western Sydney high school with no idea about what she wanted to do.
Twelve years later, she is co-founder of an entrepreneurial group of designers, engineers and allied health professionals who use 3D printing to manufacture customised posture and mobility equipment for children with disabilities. The company has dubbed the innovation "Magic Shoes".
The design and manufacture of these ankle and foot orthoses is poised to be faster and cheaper than traditionally manufactured support boots and shoes.
Melissa also spends two days a week working with university students, alumni and staff who approach the center with ideas for new inventions or processes.
Melissa started her working life in a very different setting. She had a part-time job sweeping the floor in a printing factory and made her own luck by learning every aspect of the business, from cutting posters to operating printing machines and-managing clients.
After ten years, she decided she could no longer ignore the nagging doubts about the social and environmental impact of producing advertising graphics for products she felt people didn't really need.
By then, 3D printing was radically changing the business landscape by creating durable, safe products cheaper and faster than traditional manufacturing.
"I saw 3D printing as my tool for changing the way we design and manufacture things," says Melissa about her shift from mainstream business to the world of social entrepreneurs.
When she looks back at the path she took to get to this point, she's not so surprised at how it worked out.
'My parents are very altruistic people. We come from humble beginnings and I tend to be quite entrepreneurial by spirit so for me to be a social entrepreneur is a perfect fit for my skills," says Melissa.
With a couple of friends, she formed the Three Farm network and traveled around Australia teaching disadvantaged communities how to use 3D technology.
That led to the formation of Makers Place in the inner Sydney suburb of Waterloo, a community facility that provides people with access to the tools and equipment needed to fix things and invent new ones while sharing information and ideas with others at the center.
It was here Melissa met Johan Du Plessis, who was working with people with disabilities and realised his engineering experience could help solve some of the problems they faced.
And so AbilityMate was born.
Establishing a business more focused on a social outcome than profit is not without its challenges,Melissa says.
"When we started we were 3D printing everything for everyone and that was not sustainable," she recalls.
With $20,000 of seed funding and access to an extensive mentor network from disability-focused impact accelerator Remarkable- a division of Cerebral Palsy Australia- the team realised they needed to focus on one area and do it well.
They choose 3D printing of ankle and foot orthoses for children with disabilities.
Traditionally, making orthoses has been slow and expensive. Children suffered the discomfort of having their limbs set in plaster to make a cast, then manual fabrication of a shoe or boot could take weeks.
Today, a child's limb can be scanned in seconds and 3D printing can produce a shoe within a couple of days, freeing orthotists to help more children.
AbilityMate recently launched a crowd-funding campaign to pay for things such as materials testing and Therapeutic Goods Administration approval, raising $97,000 in just one month from 310 community backers.
It was a "fantastic head start" for the company, which is continuing to raise money to complete medical trials of the "Magic Shoes".. upgrade one of its Sydney clinics and release open-source blueprints for the shoes.
The company is building an online platform based on the concept of designing globally and manufacturing locally. "Magic Shoes" will be the first product to be made available through AbilityMate's platform where approved 3D printing hubs anywhere in the world can sign on and get paid to make assertive devices.
"We want to solve this problem for children with a disability, make money from the solution, invest that back into the business and share what we have learnt," says Melissa.
IN MY LIFE-CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST
I love Christmas music, and, now that we are past Thanksgiving, it's OK to start playing it.It doesn't feel much like Christmas- weather-wise that is- but music can help to get you into the holiday spirit.
Here is a list of my favorite Christmas songs, some you may have heard of, some maybe not. If not, check them out.
Yes, I like the traditional Bing Crosby 'White Christmas" or Nat King Cole "The Christmas Song" like the best of them. But the following is a little unique playlist of holiday tunes ( in no particular order):
* "Every Year, Every Christmas"- Luther Vandross
Co-written with Luther by my friend, Richard Marx, this is a silky smooth, R&B Christmas song. Still no one like Luther.
* "Let It Be Christmas"- Alan Jackson
By a country artist, but the song isn't really country. It's catchy yet traditional, like a modern day classic. Hopefully it grows in popularity each season.
* "My Christmas Card To You"- The Partridge Family
Sung by the late David Cassidy, it's the only original song on their only Christmas album.What you might expect- pop at it's best.
* " Let It Snow"- Dean Martin
Lots of artists have covered this song, but no one like Dino, who adds in his own special lyrics. He sounds like he's having fun singing it, which makes it fun to listen to.
* " Believe"- Josh Groben
From the movie "The Polar Express". It doesn't mention Christmas at all, but it's a Christmas song, pertaining to magic and believing.
* Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"- Michael Buble
One of my favorite Christmas songs, again done thousands of times, but Buble's version is nice, calm and traditional.
* " Christmas Is Just Around The Corner"- Barry Manilow
Catchy song from "Cranberry Christmas", a cartoon feature in the 90s. It won't get out of your head once you hear it.
* " Aspenglow"- John Denver
More about winter then Christmas, still it's very pretty and is the opening song on Denver's classic Christmas album.
* " Jingle Bell Rock"- Hall & Oates
This Christmas song is supposed to rock, and Hall & Oates do it right.
* " "I'll Be Home For Christmas"- Peter Cetera
Again, covered many times, but done nicely by the ex-lead singer of Chicago on his solo Christmas cd.
* " Merry Christmas, Darling"- Carpenters
Increasing popular every year, more sentimental and seems to mean more each Christmas. A classic that slowly built into a classic over the years, sung by the beautiful voice of Karen carpenter.
* " Holly Jolly Christmas"- Burl Ives
Covered much, another modern Christmas song which grows in popularity each year. The original by Ives is the best version.
* " Little St. Nick"- Beach Boys
From their Christmas album in the 60s ("Frosty The Snowman" is another classic on that record), it has the summer- beach sound , yet it's a Christmas song.
* "Blue Christmas"- Elvis Presley
Elvis still does the best version of this song. He owns this song, like Crosby owns "White Christmas".
* "Christmas Mornings"- Richard Marx
A really beautiful Christmas song about kids and parents and memories of Christmas mornings.
* It Doesn't Have To Be That Way"- Jim Croce
A Christmas- themed song from the late, great Croce.
Here is a list of my favorite Christmas songs, some you may have heard of, some maybe not. If not, check them out.
Yes, I like the traditional Bing Crosby 'White Christmas" or Nat King Cole "The Christmas Song" like the best of them. But the following is a little unique playlist of holiday tunes ( in no particular order):
* "Every Year, Every Christmas"- Luther Vandross
Co-written with Luther by my friend, Richard Marx, this is a silky smooth, R&B Christmas song. Still no one like Luther.
* "Let It Be Christmas"- Alan Jackson
By a country artist, but the song isn't really country. It's catchy yet traditional, like a modern day classic. Hopefully it grows in popularity each season.
* "My Christmas Card To You"- The Partridge Family
Sung by the late David Cassidy, it's the only original song on their only Christmas album.What you might expect- pop at it's best.
* " Let It Snow"- Dean Martin
Lots of artists have covered this song, but no one like Dino, who adds in his own special lyrics. He sounds like he's having fun singing it, which makes it fun to listen to.
* " Believe"- Josh Groben
From the movie "The Polar Express". It doesn't mention Christmas at all, but it's a Christmas song, pertaining to magic and believing.
* Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"- Michael Buble
One of my favorite Christmas songs, again done thousands of times, but Buble's version is nice, calm and traditional.
* " Christmas Is Just Around The Corner"- Barry Manilow
Catchy song from "Cranberry Christmas", a cartoon feature in the 90s. It won't get out of your head once you hear it.
* " Aspenglow"- John Denver
More about winter then Christmas, still it's very pretty and is the opening song on Denver's classic Christmas album.
* " Jingle Bell Rock"- Hall & Oates
This Christmas song is supposed to rock, and Hall & Oates do it right.
* " "I'll Be Home For Christmas"- Peter Cetera
Again, covered many times, but done nicely by the ex-lead singer of Chicago on his solo Christmas cd.
* " Merry Christmas, Darling"- Carpenters
Increasing popular every year, more sentimental and seems to mean more each Christmas. A classic that slowly built into a classic over the years, sung by the beautiful voice of Karen carpenter.
* " Holly Jolly Christmas"- Burl Ives
Covered much, another modern Christmas song which grows in popularity each year. The original by Ives is the best version.
* " Little St. Nick"- Beach Boys
From their Christmas album in the 60s ("Frosty The Snowman" is another classic on that record), it has the summer- beach sound , yet it's a Christmas song.
* "Blue Christmas"- Elvis Presley
Elvis still does the best version of this song. He owns this song, like Crosby owns "White Christmas".
* "Christmas Mornings"- Richard Marx
A really beautiful Christmas song about kids and parents and memories of Christmas mornings.
* It Doesn't Have To Be That Way"- Jim Croce
A Christmas- themed song from the late, great Croce.
OLD-SCHOOL WHEELING- DISABILITY INSURANCE
I wrote this piece for The Phoenix on August 4, 2007...
Disability Insurance August marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of Social Security Disability Insurance. This is an important landmark, since 3 out of 10 of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching the age of 67. Seventy percent of the private sector work force do not have long-term disability insurance
. Disability Insurance has been one of the beneficial amendments in American history, as the sudden and often unexpected loss of income due to a worker’s disability can lead families into poverty. And this was often the case before 1956.
Many changes have been made to the original Social Security Act, which was passed in 1935. Many don’t realize that at the time, no provisions for disability insurance were included in the act. It wasn’t until 1956 - two decades later - when President Eisenhower and Congress made an amendment to the Social Security Act to include a disability program.
Even then, at first, only qualified workers between the ages of 50-65 were eligible for disability benefits. This coverage was expanded to include dependents of qualified disabled workers a few years later
. Even later, legislation created an entirely separate program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program would hinge more on financial need as opposed to benefits based on prior work done
. Many disabled individuals want to work. Many just can’t because of their health, or because the job market is tough, even for able-bodied workers. So, thankfully Social Security Disability exists, and will continue to be in existence for those in need.
If you need more information about Disability Insurance, go online to www.socialsecurity.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Ask for the publication pamphlets, Disability Benefits or Supplemental Security Income.
Disability Insurance August marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of Social Security Disability Insurance. This is an important landmark, since 3 out of 10 of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching the age of 67. Seventy percent of the private sector work force do not have long-term disability insurance
. Disability Insurance has been one of the beneficial amendments in American history, as the sudden and often unexpected loss of income due to a worker’s disability can lead families into poverty. And this was often the case before 1956.
Many changes have been made to the original Social Security Act, which was passed in 1935. Many don’t realize that at the time, no provisions for disability insurance were included in the act. It wasn’t until 1956 - two decades later - when President Eisenhower and Congress made an amendment to the Social Security Act to include a disability program.
Even then, at first, only qualified workers between the ages of 50-65 were eligible for disability benefits. This coverage was expanded to include dependents of qualified disabled workers a few years later
. Even later, legislation created an entirely separate program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program would hinge more on financial need as opposed to benefits based on prior work done
. Many disabled individuals want to work. Many just can’t because of their health, or because the job market is tough, even for able-bodied workers. So, thankfully Social Security Disability exists, and will continue to be in existence for those in need.
If you need more information about Disability Insurance, go online to www.socialsecurity.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Ask for the publication pamphlets, Disability Benefits or Supplemental Security Income.
IN THE NEWS- TAX BILL MAY THREATEN DISABILITY SERVICES
This important story comes from Disability Scoop...
`A Republican proposal to overhaul the tax code could endanger everything from employment services to health care for people with disabilities, advocates say.
More than a dozen disability advocacy groups are working furiously to block the U.S. Senate from passing a bill that may bring up to $1.5 trillion in tax cuts, warning that slashing such a huge chunk of federal revenue would spell trouble for programs that Americans with disabilities rely on.
"It is a significant threat to people with disabilities and would likely have a lasting impact on funding for critical services on which people with disabilities rely, including Medicaid," said Alison Barkoff, director of advocacy for the Center for Public Representation.
Barkhoff's group and others including the American Association of People with Disabilities, the National Disability Rights Network and the National Council on Independent Living are pushing their members to contact senators during a call-in day on Wednesday.
The Senate could vote as soon as this week on the tax bill, a version of which was already approved by the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month.
Under existing budget rules, legislation that adds to the national debt must be offset. Accordingly, advocates say the proposed tax bill could lead to automatic cuts to federal programs like vocational rehabilitation and housing assistance.
"The proposed tax cuts will create enormous pressure on the federal budget,' said Julia Bascom, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which is involved in the national call-in day. "Both the administration and congressional leadership have made clear that they plan to alleviate that pressure by slashing Medicaid, including (home and community-based) waiver services, and other basic programs that allow people with disabilities to live good lives in our community."
In addition, advocates say they are worried that the House version of the legislation would eliminate a tax deduction for those with high medical expenses and it would do away with tax incentives aimed at encouraging businesses to hire people with disabilities or make their facilities accessible.
Meanwhile , the Senate bill would end the Affordable Care Act's requirement that all Americans have health insurance, a move that advocates say would destabilize the market, increase premiums and threaten protections for people with pre-existing conditions.
"This fight is, in some ways, even more important than the fights to save the Affordable Care Act because these bills could lead to the collapse of the ACA and devastating cuts and changes to entitlement programs and discretionary programs that support people with disabilities,' said Kim Musheno, vice president of public policy for the Autism Society.
`A Republican proposal to overhaul the tax code could endanger everything from employment services to health care for people with disabilities, advocates say.
More than a dozen disability advocacy groups are working furiously to block the U.S. Senate from passing a bill that may bring up to $1.5 trillion in tax cuts, warning that slashing such a huge chunk of federal revenue would spell trouble for programs that Americans with disabilities rely on.
"It is a significant threat to people with disabilities and would likely have a lasting impact on funding for critical services on which people with disabilities rely, including Medicaid," said Alison Barkoff, director of advocacy for the Center for Public Representation.
Barkhoff's group and others including the American Association of People with Disabilities, the National Disability Rights Network and the National Council on Independent Living are pushing their members to contact senators during a call-in day on Wednesday.
The Senate could vote as soon as this week on the tax bill, a version of which was already approved by the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month.
Under existing budget rules, legislation that adds to the national debt must be offset. Accordingly, advocates say the proposed tax bill could lead to automatic cuts to federal programs like vocational rehabilitation and housing assistance.
"The proposed tax cuts will create enormous pressure on the federal budget,' said Julia Bascom, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which is involved in the national call-in day. "Both the administration and congressional leadership have made clear that they plan to alleviate that pressure by slashing Medicaid, including (home and community-based) waiver services, and other basic programs that allow people with disabilities to live good lives in our community."
In addition, advocates say they are worried that the House version of the legislation would eliminate a tax deduction for those with high medical expenses and it would do away with tax incentives aimed at encouraging businesses to hire people with disabilities or make their facilities accessible.
Meanwhile , the Senate bill would end the Affordable Care Act's requirement that all Americans have health insurance, a move that advocates say would destabilize the market, increase premiums and threaten protections for people with pre-existing conditions.
"This fight is, in some ways, even more important than the fights to save the Affordable Care Act because these bills could lead to the collapse of the ACA and devastating cuts and changes to entitlement programs and discretionary programs that support people with disabilities,' said Kim Musheno, vice president of public policy for the Autism Society.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES-SEA HAWKS- THE PICK
Hard to believe...The last time the Eagles lost a football game- it was still summer. Pete Mackanin was manager of the Phillies. Both the Sixers and Flyers were still weeks away from even beginning their seasons.
The Birds will be showcased again on Sunday Night Football this weekend, traveling to Seattle to play the Seahawks and their famed "12th" man frenzied crowd.
The Seahawks are 7-4 and battling for the NFC West division with the LA Rams. They are pissed, once a proud franchise, not the same now with injured players. They aren't the same Seattle team as before but they are still a good team, maybe a notch below teams like the Eagles, Patriots and Steelers, but a good team.
Their offensive line is horrendous. The Eagles superior defensive line should get to quarterback Russell Wilson all night. Wilson can scramble, rolling away from pressure. That's the difference between previous statue-like quarterbacks and the Seattle signal-caller.
The eagles travel as far as they can go, after not being on the road for a month. They will stay on the west coast after the Seahawk game, going down to Los Angeles to prepare for the Rams next week.
Philly is 10-1 and may have the NFC East wrapped up even before they step on the field. A redskin win Thursday night over the Cowboys and the NFC East division champions for 2017 are the Philadelphia Eagles.
Goal No. 1 will be checked off, but the Birds need to keep winning, needing to secure a playoff bye and home field advantage thru-out the post-season.
Why can't this special Eagles team win their last five games and finish at 15-1? Why must they lose a game before the playoffs when they are crushing teams. No let-down in these Eagles. They remain hungry and are having fun.
I've been perfect picking Eagles games this season-11-0, even picking the Kansas City loss so early in the season, and the surprising Carolina win.
Seattle has been losing at home lately, unusual for the Seahawks. They will want to knock off the best team in football in front of a national audience.But it seems inconceivable to think the Eagles will lose. Not with Carson Wentz rolling toward an MVP award. Not with the defense holding opposing teams to six yards rushing. Not with the team killing the opposition every week by 23 points or more.
My head says Seattle somehow wins this game. My heart says Eagles and will be rooting for the Birds, as always.Even if the Eagles somehow lose this game, it doesn't destroy their season. I think they go on and beat the Rams, then come home and crush the Raiders and Cowboys, and still cruise into the playoffs with a bye and home field advantage.
Head prediction: Seahawks 24 Eagles 23
Heart prediction: Eagles 38 Seahawks 23
The Birds will be showcased again on Sunday Night Football this weekend, traveling to Seattle to play the Seahawks and their famed "12th" man frenzied crowd.
The Seahawks are 7-4 and battling for the NFC West division with the LA Rams. They are pissed, once a proud franchise, not the same now with injured players. They aren't the same Seattle team as before but they are still a good team, maybe a notch below teams like the Eagles, Patriots and Steelers, but a good team.
Their offensive line is horrendous. The Eagles superior defensive line should get to quarterback Russell Wilson all night. Wilson can scramble, rolling away from pressure. That's the difference between previous statue-like quarterbacks and the Seattle signal-caller.
The eagles travel as far as they can go, after not being on the road for a month. They will stay on the west coast after the Seahawk game, going down to Los Angeles to prepare for the Rams next week.
Philly is 10-1 and may have the NFC East wrapped up even before they step on the field. A redskin win Thursday night over the Cowboys and the NFC East division champions for 2017 are the Philadelphia Eagles.
Goal No. 1 will be checked off, but the Birds need to keep winning, needing to secure a playoff bye and home field advantage thru-out the post-season.
Why can't this special Eagles team win their last five games and finish at 15-1? Why must they lose a game before the playoffs when they are crushing teams. No let-down in these Eagles. They remain hungry and are having fun.
I've been perfect picking Eagles games this season-11-0, even picking the Kansas City loss so early in the season, and the surprising Carolina win.
Seattle has been losing at home lately, unusual for the Seahawks. They will want to knock off the best team in football in front of a national audience.But it seems inconceivable to think the Eagles will lose. Not with Carson Wentz rolling toward an MVP award. Not with the defense holding opposing teams to six yards rushing. Not with the team killing the opposition every week by 23 points or more.
My head says Seattle somehow wins this game. My heart says Eagles and will be rooting for the Birds, as always.Even if the Eagles somehow lose this game, it doesn't destroy their season. I think they go on and beat the Rams, then come home and crush the Raiders and Cowboys, and still cruise into the playoffs with a bye and home field advantage.
Head prediction: Seahawks 24 Eagles 23
Heart prediction: Eagles 38 Seahawks 23
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, NFL NEWS
* The Flyers lost their 8th game in a ow last night, 3-1 to San Jose. Boos reigned over the Wells Fargo Center all night. Chants of "Fire Hakstol!" echoed thru-out the arena.
How embarrassing to promote Flyers' Santa Sacks over the background of your own home fans booing like hell.
I made the mistake of recently buying a Santa Sack package for a January game against St. Louis. At least the Blues are a good team.
After the game, GM Ron Hextall held a news conference and proclaimed his support for coach Hakstol, amazingly saying that he didn't think the team waqs playing "poorly".
They've lost NINE consecutive games, yet the Flyers aren't playing poorly?
The problem is, Hexstall can fire Hakstol, but who fires the General Manager? We don't know, since Ed Snider died. there is no face to the organization. Is it Paul Holmgren? Is it some executive from Comcast that we don't know?
If you're not going to change the coach, who seems in over his head and unable to dig his way out of this mess, then maybe you change the players.
The scary thought is: have the Flyers over-evaluated their young talent?I know the defense in particular is very inexperienced. The goalies are average. The team still doesn't have enough scorers ( yet they traded Braydon Schinn to St. Louis, and he is tearing up the league).
Note to Phillies: it's cool to go young, but add a few veterans in the mix as well, like a Jayson Werth. Don't go all-in with youth, as the Flyers have done, and now are getting burned.
Maybe the most delusional item from the post-game talk was when Hexstall proclaimed he thought the Flyers would still make the playoffs. Maybe if he makes some changes.
The Flyers may be buried by Christmas . I'm sure their Santa Sack annual promotion is taking a hit right now.
*************************************************************************
The New York football Giants have benched quarterback Eli Manning. After starting 210 straight games, Manning will be riding the bench on Sunday. The great Geno Smith will be starting. Rookie David Webb will be on hand as well.
It seems the Giants want to see their young QBs before next spring's draft, when a good group of signal-callers will be available.
I could care less about pouty-faced Eli, but it has to sting Giant fans to know it has come to this.
I wouldn't be surprised to see manning get traded during the off-season. Teams like Denver or Jacksonville could milk a few more years out of Eli.
***********************************************************************
The Sixers play their final game of their current home stand tonight vs the Washington Wizards.
How embarrassing to promote Flyers' Santa Sacks over the background of your own home fans booing like hell.
I made the mistake of recently buying a Santa Sack package for a January game against St. Louis. At least the Blues are a good team.
After the game, GM Ron Hextall held a news conference and proclaimed his support for coach Hakstol, amazingly saying that he didn't think the team waqs playing "poorly".
They've lost NINE consecutive games, yet the Flyers aren't playing poorly?
The problem is, Hexstall can fire Hakstol, but who fires the General Manager? We don't know, since Ed Snider died. there is no face to the organization. Is it Paul Holmgren? Is it some executive from Comcast that we don't know?
If you're not going to change the coach, who seems in over his head and unable to dig his way out of this mess, then maybe you change the players.
The scary thought is: have the Flyers over-evaluated their young talent?I know the defense in particular is very inexperienced. The goalies are average. The team still doesn't have enough scorers ( yet they traded Braydon Schinn to St. Louis, and he is tearing up the league).
Note to Phillies: it's cool to go young, but add a few veterans in the mix as well, like a Jayson Werth. Don't go all-in with youth, as the Flyers have done, and now are getting burned.
Maybe the most delusional item from the post-game talk was when Hexstall proclaimed he thought the Flyers would still make the playoffs. Maybe if he makes some changes.
The Flyers may be buried by Christmas . I'm sure their Santa Sack annual promotion is taking a hit right now.
*************************************************************************
The New York football Giants have benched quarterback Eli Manning. After starting 210 straight games, Manning will be riding the bench on Sunday. The great Geno Smith will be starting. Rookie David Webb will be on hand as well.
It seems the Giants want to see their young QBs before next spring's draft, when a good group of signal-callers will be available.
I could care less about pouty-faced Eli, but it has to sting Giant fans to know it has come to this.
I wouldn't be surprised to see manning get traded during the off-season. Teams like Denver or Jacksonville could milk a few more years out of Eli.
***********************************************************************
The Sixers play their final game of their current home stand tonight vs the Washington Wizards.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
IN THE NEWS- AMPUTEES CAN LEARN TO CONTROL ROBOTIC ARM WITH MIND POWER
This good news is from Disability World..
A new study by neuroscientists at the University of Chicago shows how amputees can learn to control a robotic arm through electrodes implanted in the brain.
The research, published in Nature Communications, details changes that take place in both sides of the brain used to control the amputated limb and the remaining, intact limb. The results show both areas can create new connections to learn how to control the device, even several years after an amputation.
"That's the novel aspect to this study, seeing that chronic, long-term amputees can learn to control a robotic limb," said Nicho Hatsopoulos, PhD. professor of organismal biology and anatomy at UChicago and senior author of the study. "But what was also interesting was the brain's plasticity over long-term exposure, and seeing what happened to the connectivitiy of the network as they learned to control the device."
Previous experiments have shown how paralyzed human patients can move robotic limbs through a brain machine interface. The new study is one of the first to test the viability of these devices in amputees as well.
The researchers worked with three rhesus monkeys who suffered injuries at a young age and had yo have an arm amputated to rescue them four, nine, 10 years ago, respectively. Their limbs were not amputated for the purposes of the study. In two of the animals, the researchers implanted electrode arrays in the side of the brain opposite, or contralateral, to the amputated limb. This is the side that used to control the amputated limb. in the third animal, the electrodes were implanted on the same side, or ipsilateral, to the amputated limb. This is the side that still controlled the intact limb.
The monkeys were then trained (with generous helpings of juice) to move a robotic arm and grasp a ball using only their thoughts. The scientists recorded the activity of neurons where the electrodes were placed, and used a statistical model to calculate how the neurons were connected to each other before the experiments, during training and once the monkeys mastered the activity.
The connections between neurons on the contralateral side- the side that had been controlling the amputated arm- were sparse before the training, most likely because they had not been used for that function in a long time. But as training progressed, these connections became more robust and dense in areas used for both reaching and grasping.
On the ipsilateral side- the side that had been controlling the monkey's intact arm- the connections were dense at the beginning of the experiments. But the researchers saw something interesting as training progressed; first the connections were pruned and the networks thinned, before rebuilding into a new, dense network.
"That means connections were shedding off as the animal was trying to learn a new task, because there is already a network controlling some other behavior,' said Karthikeyan Balasubramanian, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher who led the study. 'But after a few days it started rebuilding into a new network that can control both the intact limb and the amputated limb."
Now the team plans to continue their work by combining it with research by other groups to equip neuroprosthetic limbs with sensory feedback about touch and proprioception,, which is the sense of where the limb is located in space.
"That's how we can begin to create truly responsive neuroprosthetic limbs, when people can both move it and get natural sensations, through the brain machine interface,' Hatsopoulos said.
A new study by neuroscientists at the University of Chicago shows how amputees can learn to control a robotic arm through electrodes implanted in the brain.
The research, published in Nature Communications, details changes that take place in both sides of the brain used to control the amputated limb and the remaining, intact limb. The results show both areas can create new connections to learn how to control the device, even several years after an amputation.
"That's the novel aspect to this study, seeing that chronic, long-term amputees can learn to control a robotic limb," said Nicho Hatsopoulos, PhD. professor of organismal biology and anatomy at UChicago and senior author of the study. "But what was also interesting was the brain's plasticity over long-term exposure, and seeing what happened to the connectivitiy of the network as they learned to control the device."
Previous experiments have shown how paralyzed human patients can move robotic limbs through a brain machine interface. The new study is one of the first to test the viability of these devices in amputees as well.
The researchers worked with three rhesus monkeys who suffered injuries at a young age and had yo have an arm amputated to rescue them four, nine, 10 years ago, respectively. Their limbs were not amputated for the purposes of the study. In two of the animals, the researchers implanted electrode arrays in the side of the brain opposite, or contralateral, to the amputated limb. This is the side that used to control the amputated limb. in the third animal, the electrodes were implanted on the same side, or ipsilateral, to the amputated limb. This is the side that still controlled the intact limb.
The monkeys were then trained (with generous helpings of juice) to move a robotic arm and grasp a ball using only their thoughts. The scientists recorded the activity of neurons where the electrodes were placed, and used a statistical model to calculate how the neurons were connected to each other before the experiments, during training and once the monkeys mastered the activity.
The connections between neurons on the contralateral side- the side that had been controlling the amputated arm- were sparse before the training, most likely because they had not been used for that function in a long time. But as training progressed, these connections became more robust and dense in areas used for both reaching and grasping.
On the ipsilateral side- the side that had been controlling the monkey's intact arm- the connections were dense at the beginning of the experiments. But the researchers saw something interesting as training progressed; first the connections were pruned and the networks thinned, before rebuilding into a new, dense network.
"That means connections were shedding off as the animal was trying to learn a new task, because there is already a network controlling some other behavior,' said Karthikeyan Balasubramanian, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher who led the study. 'But after a few days it started rebuilding into a new network that can control both the intact limb and the amputated limb."
Now the team plans to continue their work by combining it with research by other groups to equip neuroprosthetic limbs with sensory feedback about touch and proprioception,, which is the sense of where the limb is located in space.
"That's how we can begin to create truly responsive neuroprosthetic limbs, when people can both move it and get natural sensations, through the brain machine interface,' Hatsopoulos said.
NFL WEEK 12 WRAP-UP
The byes are done, so it was a full week of games in the NFL, along with the traditional Thanksgiving Day contests. Here are my thoughts on the week that was...
Vikings over Lions-
Minnesota pretty much locked up the NFC North with their Thanksgiving Day victory at Detroit. The Vikes will be a dangerous team in the playoffs with their defense. At 9-2, they are trying to secure one of the two playoff byes and a playoff game at home. QB Teddy Bridgewater remains on the bench, and what will happen to Sam Bradford if/when he is ready to return for the playoffs? Detroit may not win their division, but I give them a good shot at a wild card spot, even though losing at home to Minnesota was a tough loss. The Lions face two road games in a row, first at Baltimore, then at Tampa Bay. The Vikings play the second of a three-game road trip at suddenly-hot Atlanta.
Chargers over Cowboys-
Heaven for Eagles fans, Dallas losing twice in a week. If the Chargers didn't have a\n injured kicker the score would've been even worse. LA , after going 0-4 to open the season, is now suddenly 5-6 and only one game behind AFC West division-leading Kansas City. Dallas is in chaos, after a 13-3 season, crumbling to 5-6.Their owner is hated, their key players are injured or suspended with no depth, and their quarterback may be a one-year wonder. The Chargers have the lowly Browns and Redskins at home the next two weeks and can make a case for the AFC West lead. Dallas has Washington at home on Thursday night.Two ugly 5-6 teams- winner barely is alive for a wild card berth; loser goes home until 2018.
Redskins over Giants-
Washington beat a crummy Giants team with ease. Washington is 5-6 and remains on life-support for a wild card slot. New York slides to 2-9 and should fire Coach McAdoo after the season ends. Washington takes on rival Dallas on Thursday Night in a must-win situation, before going to Los Angeles to face the surging chargers. Either way the "Skins are done. Stick a fork in them.The Giants only seem to be able to beat AFC West teams ( their only two victories are over Denver and Kansas City). They travel to Oakland this week.
Falcons over Buccaneers-
Matt Ryan and crew are suddenly playing well, with crucial division games ahead. If not the NFC South, Atlanta would be a dangerous wild card team to beat. The Bucs lose yet again in what must be a frustrating season for the once-promising young Bucs. Atlanta plays their second home game in a row (out of three) when they face tough Minnesota (in what could be a potential playoff match-up).Tampa Bay goes to chilly Green Bay this weekend.
Bengals over Browns-
A meaningless battle of Ohio, the Bengals are wildly inconsistent, while Cleveland goes 0-11 and is hopeless. Will they win a game this season? They play the Chargers in LA, come home for the Packers and Ravens, then finish on the road with Chicago and Pittsburgh.Cincinnati has two key home games in the next two weeks, with division-leading Pittsburgh and the Bears.
Titans over Colts-
Tennessee and Jacksonville are tied at 7-4 for the AFC South lead. Indianapolis is playing out the string, wondering if QB Andrew Luck will ever be back. The Titans have a downtrodden Houston Texans team coming into Tennessee this week, before going back on the road for two more games. The Titans key game will be their last- at home against the Jaguars. Indy goes to Jacksonville this week.
Seahawks over 49'ers-
Seattle expectedly beat San Francisco to stay a game behind the Rams in NFC West. They take on the Eagles this Sunday night at home. Seattle is proving to be good, and should earn a wild card spot if they can't beat out the Rams, but not as good as in previous years. Meanwhile, the Niners play the Bears in a game that no one will care about.
Raiders over Broncos-
Oakland stays alive in AFC West, tied with the Chargers, one game behind the Chiefs. Denver lost again and are starting to fire front office people already. A big comedown form a team only a few seasons removed from a Super Bowl championship. Without a real quarterback, John Elway and the broncos are going no where fast. The Raiders can climb to .500 with a win over the awful Giants, while Denver tries to snap their losing streak with a game at Miami.
Rams over Saints-
The Game of the Week, the Rams climbed to 8-3 with an impressive home victory over Drew Brees and the hot Saints. LA lost Robert Woods, but they look for real. How far will they go? This week to Arizona for a key NFC West game. The Saints try to rebound with a home game against Carolina. By the way, the Saints play the Falcons twice in the coming weeks, which may decide the division winner.
Bills over Chiefs-
Buffalo wins away from cold Buffalo, a surprise victory at Arrowhead over the slumping Chiefs. The Bills put Tyron Taylor back at QB and came out with a win, which moves their record to 6-5.They won't beat out New England for the AFC East, but they do have a shot at the playoffs as a wild card team. What's wrong with Kansas City? After starting 5-0, they are suddenly 6-5 and barely hanging on to their division lead. The season is now for Buffalo, which has its next three games at home, starting with the Patriots. Beat New England, Indy and Miami (winnable games) and suddenly you're 9-5. For KC, they play the Jets at the Meadowlands ( where they recently lost to the Giants), then have three straight home games.
Patriots over Dolphins-
It's that time of the year, and the Pats are making their playoff push. Their key game will be in week 15 at Pittsburgh, which should be for home field advantage in the playoffs. Miami is a mess.New England starts a three-game road trip with a huge game at Buffalo this weekend, while the Dolphins host Denver. Miami then has New England and Buffalo, so if they have any remote hopes of making the playoffs, the time is now to start winning.
Panthers over Jets-
Carolina barely escaped in New York, hanging in the NFC South race and wild card run. The Jets, after a surprising start, are turning back into the Jets, although they are playing teams tough. The Panthers have a major game this weekend against the Saints in New Orleans The Jets host Kansas City this week.
Eagles over Bears-
So, the Birds move to 10-1 after destroying yet another club. They fly to Seattle for a Sunday Night clash with the Seahawks. Chicago looked awful, and despite some impressive wins this season, notably against the Steelers and Panthers, are stuck in no mans' land with a 3-8 record. Da Bears host San Francisco at Soldier Field this Sunday afternoon.
Cardinals over Jaguars-
Arizona pulled out a win at home over Jacksonville last Sunday. The Cards sit at 5-6 and still without QB Carson Palmer. They have an unlikely shot at the wild card. The Jags fell into a tied for the AFC South crown, 7-4 with the Titans. The Jags go to Tennessee on the final game of the season, probably with the division hanging in the balance. Next week they return to Jacksonville to face the Colts. Arizona has the second of three straight home games on Sunday with the Rams.
Ravens over Texans-
Baltimore, at 6-5, are technically in the playoff hunt. But they are three games behind Pittsburgh for their division lead ( already losing to the Steelers- in Baltimore) and the Ravens have been so inconsistent, can they hold up to win a wild card spot? After QB DeShaun Watson went down with a season-ending injury, with J.J. Watt also out, Houston went to hell. Baltimore is at home this week against Detroit, before traveling to Pittsburgh for revenge next week. Houston goes to Tennessee to get stomped on again this weekend.
Steelers over Packers-
Pittsburgh squeezed out a late win over Green Bay on Sunday night, going 9-2 in the process. They all but have the AFC North title wrapped up. Now they are going for most wins to grab home field advantage in the playoffs away from New England. After Aaron Rodgers got hurt, the Pack were done. Pittsburgh goes to Cincinnati this week, before returning home for two games. Green Bay goes home to Lambeau Field to face Tampa Bay before hitting the road again.
Vikings over Lions-
Minnesota pretty much locked up the NFC North with their Thanksgiving Day victory at Detroit. The Vikes will be a dangerous team in the playoffs with their defense. At 9-2, they are trying to secure one of the two playoff byes and a playoff game at home. QB Teddy Bridgewater remains on the bench, and what will happen to Sam Bradford if/when he is ready to return for the playoffs? Detroit may not win their division, but I give them a good shot at a wild card spot, even though losing at home to Minnesota was a tough loss. The Lions face two road games in a row, first at Baltimore, then at Tampa Bay. The Vikings play the second of a three-game road trip at suddenly-hot Atlanta.
Chargers over Cowboys-
Heaven for Eagles fans, Dallas losing twice in a week. If the Chargers didn't have a\n injured kicker the score would've been even worse. LA , after going 0-4 to open the season, is now suddenly 5-6 and only one game behind AFC West division-leading Kansas City. Dallas is in chaos, after a 13-3 season, crumbling to 5-6.Their owner is hated, their key players are injured or suspended with no depth, and their quarterback may be a one-year wonder. The Chargers have the lowly Browns and Redskins at home the next two weeks and can make a case for the AFC West lead. Dallas has Washington at home on Thursday night.Two ugly 5-6 teams- winner barely is alive for a wild card berth; loser goes home until 2018.
Redskins over Giants-
Washington beat a crummy Giants team with ease. Washington is 5-6 and remains on life-support for a wild card slot. New York slides to 2-9 and should fire Coach McAdoo after the season ends. Washington takes on rival Dallas on Thursday Night in a must-win situation, before going to Los Angeles to face the surging chargers. Either way the "Skins are done. Stick a fork in them.The Giants only seem to be able to beat AFC West teams ( their only two victories are over Denver and Kansas City). They travel to Oakland this week.
Falcons over Buccaneers-
Matt Ryan and crew are suddenly playing well, with crucial division games ahead. If not the NFC South, Atlanta would be a dangerous wild card team to beat. The Bucs lose yet again in what must be a frustrating season for the once-promising young Bucs. Atlanta plays their second home game in a row (out of three) when they face tough Minnesota (in what could be a potential playoff match-up).Tampa Bay goes to chilly Green Bay this weekend.
Bengals over Browns-
A meaningless battle of Ohio, the Bengals are wildly inconsistent, while Cleveland goes 0-11 and is hopeless. Will they win a game this season? They play the Chargers in LA, come home for the Packers and Ravens, then finish on the road with Chicago and Pittsburgh.Cincinnati has two key home games in the next two weeks, with division-leading Pittsburgh and the Bears.
Titans over Colts-
Tennessee and Jacksonville are tied at 7-4 for the AFC South lead. Indianapolis is playing out the string, wondering if QB Andrew Luck will ever be back. The Titans have a downtrodden Houston Texans team coming into Tennessee this week, before going back on the road for two more games. The Titans key game will be their last- at home against the Jaguars. Indy goes to Jacksonville this week.
Seahawks over 49'ers-
Seattle expectedly beat San Francisco to stay a game behind the Rams in NFC West. They take on the Eagles this Sunday night at home. Seattle is proving to be good, and should earn a wild card spot if they can't beat out the Rams, but not as good as in previous years. Meanwhile, the Niners play the Bears in a game that no one will care about.
Raiders over Broncos-
Oakland stays alive in AFC West, tied with the Chargers, one game behind the Chiefs. Denver lost again and are starting to fire front office people already. A big comedown form a team only a few seasons removed from a Super Bowl championship. Without a real quarterback, John Elway and the broncos are going no where fast. The Raiders can climb to .500 with a win over the awful Giants, while Denver tries to snap their losing streak with a game at Miami.
Rams over Saints-
The Game of the Week, the Rams climbed to 8-3 with an impressive home victory over Drew Brees and the hot Saints. LA lost Robert Woods, but they look for real. How far will they go? This week to Arizona for a key NFC West game. The Saints try to rebound with a home game against Carolina. By the way, the Saints play the Falcons twice in the coming weeks, which may decide the division winner.
Bills over Chiefs-
Buffalo wins away from cold Buffalo, a surprise victory at Arrowhead over the slumping Chiefs. The Bills put Tyron Taylor back at QB and came out with a win, which moves their record to 6-5.They won't beat out New England for the AFC East, but they do have a shot at the playoffs as a wild card team. What's wrong with Kansas City? After starting 5-0, they are suddenly 6-5 and barely hanging on to their division lead. The season is now for Buffalo, which has its next three games at home, starting with the Patriots. Beat New England, Indy and Miami (winnable games) and suddenly you're 9-5. For KC, they play the Jets at the Meadowlands ( where they recently lost to the Giants), then have three straight home games.
Patriots over Dolphins-
It's that time of the year, and the Pats are making their playoff push. Their key game will be in week 15 at Pittsburgh, which should be for home field advantage in the playoffs. Miami is a mess.New England starts a three-game road trip with a huge game at Buffalo this weekend, while the Dolphins host Denver. Miami then has New England and Buffalo, so if they have any remote hopes of making the playoffs, the time is now to start winning.
Panthers over Jets-
Carolina barely escaped in New York, hanging in the NFC South race and wild card run. The Jets, after a surprising start, are turning back into the Jets, although they are playing teams tough. The Panthers have a major game this weekend against the Saints in New Orleans The Jets host Kansas City this week.
Eagles over Bears-
So, the Birds move to 10-1 after destroying yet another club. They fly to Seattle for a Sunday Night clash with the Seahawks. Chicago looked awful, and despite some impressive wins this season, notably against the Steelers and Panthers, are stuck in no mans' land with a 3-8 record. Da Bears host San Francisco at Soldier Field this Sunday afternoon.
Cardinals over Jaguars-
Arizona pulled out a win at home over Jacksonville last Sunday. The Cards sit at 5-6 and still without QB Carson Palmer. They have an unlikely shot at the wild card. The Jags fell into a tied for the AFC South crown, 7-4 with the Titans. The Jags go to Tennessee on the final game of the season, probably with the division hanging in the balance. Next week they return to Jacksonville to face the Colts. Arizona has the second of three straight home games on Sunday with the Rams.
Ravens over Texans-
Baltimore, at 6-5, are technically in the playoff hunt. But they are three games behind Pittsburgh for their division lead ( already losing to the Steelers- in Baltimore) and the Ravens have been so inconsistent, can they hold up to win a wild card spot? After QB DeShaun Watson went down with a season-ending injury, with J.J. Watt also out, Houston went to hell. Baltimore is at home this week against Detroit, before traveling to Pittsburgh for revenge next week. Houston goes to Tennessee to get stomped on again this weekend.
Steelers over Packers-
Pittsburgh squeezed out a late win over Green Bay on Sunday night, going 9-2 in the process. They all but have the AFC North title wrapped up. Now they are going for most wins to grab home field advantage in the playoffs away from New England. After Aaron Rodgers got hurt, the Pack were done. Pittsburgh goes to Cincinnati this week, before returning home for two games. Green Bay goes home to Lambeau Field to face Tampa Bay before hitting the road again.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, FLYERS, EAGLES, NFL NEWS
* The Sixers lost to the Cavaliers last night at home, 113-91, once again proving they are not quite up to championship caliber.
They lost to Golden State twice recently, beating everyone else in their way. When they run into quality teams like Cleveland or the Warriors, they show promise but are not ready yet for the solid teams.
Maybe by the end of the season, when the playoffs begin in the spring, maybe then the 76'ers will show more than flashes of brilliance and will have the experience to give a good team a fight in the post-season.
The Sixers shoot too many 3-point shots, missing 25 of 28 against the Cavs. Other than Reddick and Covington, is there another reliable, consistent 3-point shooter on the Sixers? You live by the sword, you die by the sword. I like when a team is aggressive and runs. The Sixers on the fast break are dynamic, with Simmons leading the way. But they also need to play smart. Thye're young, and, as they did against Golden State, they tend to lose their composure at the end of close games.
Experience should solve many of these problems. Hopefully the Sixers learn from losing a game to LeBron James and the Cavsnow rather than later.
Speaking of LeBron, would he come to Philadelphia next season to play with Embiid and Simmons? James always tends to go to places that are close to championships. The Sixers are on that path, more so than the Lakers, the other team James may head to. Philly doesn't have the glitz and glamour of LA, but if James wants another ring after this season, he may want to think Philly.
*******************************************************************************
* The Flyers lost their 8th straight game, an overtime loss at Pittsburgh.Earning one point for an overtime loss ( a stupid rule) isn't good enough. The team gets ahead, loses it's composure and blows late leads. Once in overtime or in a shoot-out, forget it.
Ed Snider must be rolling over in his grave. Coach Dave Hakstol needs to go. Something needs to change. You can't gut the entire team, especially with all the young players now on the club. The whole idea of hiring a college coach like Hakstol was for the kids to grow with a young coach who has worked with ( and had success with) young players.
It hasn't worked. Hakstol is in over his head. GM Ron Hextall is too patient and needs to act before the season is lost. Hakstol shows no emotion, and I'm afraid his team is taking on his personality.
Who is running the show in the Flyers organization now that Snider is gone? Someone needs to step up.
The Flyers return home tonight to play the Sharks, then don't play again until Saturday at home vs Boston.
******************************************************************************
The Eagles start preparing for their upcoming west coast trip. starting this Sunday night at Seattle. I'll make my pick later this week. The Seahawks aren't what they used to be, but , despite losing at home recently, still are a dangerous team, especially in Seattle.
The Birds will stay on the west coast next week to practice while getting ready to take on the Rams in Los Angeles.
* A correction from yesterday's blog: The Eagles fumbled a total of four times on Sunday against the Bears, not just two times. Ina season where everything seems to be falling right for the team, the fumbling issue is something Coach Pederson and his staff can work on with the players.
Wentz is doing a great job not throwing interceptions, especially in the Red Zone.Overall, one of the keys to the Birds' success and their 10-1 record is not turning the ball over. They force giveaways, not turn the ball over themselves. Yet, even with the fumbles, the Eagles blew away Chicago.
*****************************************************************************
Ex- Eagles coach Chip Kelly was introduced as head coach at UCLA yesterday, and basically handed out the same BS he has been shoveling for years. He claims that one of the keys to winning championships ( even though Kelly himself has never won a championship)is communication. Funny, when Kelly was in Philly, he would ignorant many people within the Nova Care Center.
Because he is basically a college coach and nothing more, and can recruit, Kelly may do well with the Bruins. But listen LA: take it from a city that knows the truth- get ready to hear a lot of excuses when things don't go well.
***************************************************************************
Eagles' GM Howie Rossman deservedly is getting his share of credit for the 10-1 resurgence of the team. Owner Jeff Luire needs a lot of praise as well, for getting rid of the destructive Kelly when he did, and for bringing back Rossman. Pederson may be Coach of the Year, and has pretty much erased many doubts of his abilities.Defensive Coordinator Jim Swartz has great defensive players and are using them effectively.
But give Personnel Director Joe Thomas, who came to Philadelphia from Baltimore, a lot of credit too. He clearly is great at evaluating talent, and seems to have Rossman's ear when he comes to players, trades and free agent signings.
Finally, I'm starting to think the only sort of team that can derail these Eagles is a team with a great quarterback. Someone like Drew Brees, who won't be fazed by anything a defense throws at him, worries me more than Minnesota or even an inconsistent Cam Newton and Carolina.
Matt Ryan and the Falcons could be a concern in the playoffs- if they make the playoffs. Russell Wilson, the QB that the Eagles face this Sunday night, can scramble away from pressure. I'm not worried about Jared Goff. The Rams may get into the playoffs, but will their inexperience hurt them in big, pressure-packed games?
They lost to Golden State twice recently, beating everyone else in their way. When they run into quality teams like Cleveland or the Warriors, they show promise but are not ready yet for the solid teams.
Maybe by the end of the season, when the playoffs begin in the spring, maybe then the 76'ers will show more than flashes of brilliance and will have the experience to give a good team a fight in the post-season.
The Sixers shoot too many 3-point shots, missing 25 of 28 against the Cavs. Other than Reddick and Covington, is there another reliable, consistent 3-point shooter on the Sixers? You live by the sword, you die by the sword. I like when a team is aggressive and runs. The Sixers on the fast break are dynamic, with Simmons leading the way. But they also need to play smart. Thye're young, and, as they did against Golden State, they tend to lose their composure at the end of close games.
Experience should solve many of these problems. Hopefully the Sixers learn from losing a game to LeBron James and the Cavsnow rather than later.
Speaking of LeBron, would he come to Philadelphia next season to play with Embiid and Simmons? James always tends to go to places that are close to championships. The Sixers are on that path, more so than the Lakers, the other team James may head to. Philly doesn't have the glitz and glamour of LA, but if James wants another ring after this season, he may want to think Philly.
*******************************************************************************
* The Flyers lost their 8th straight game, an overtime loss at Pittsburgh.Earning one point for an overtime loss ( a stupid rule) isn't good enough. The team gets ahead, loses it's composure and blows late leads. Once in overtime or in a shoot-out, forget it.
Ed Snider must be rolling over in his grave. Coach Dave Hakstol needs to go. Something needs to change. You can't gut the entire team, especially with all the young players now on the club. The whole idea of hiring a college coach like Hakstol was for the kids to grow with a young coach who has worked with ( and had success with) young players.
It hasn't worked. Hakstol is in over his head. GM Ron Hextall is too patient and needs to act before the season is lost. Hakstol shows no emotion, and I'm afraid his team is taking on his personality.
Who is running the show in the Flyers organization now that Snider is gone? Someone needs to step up.
The Flyers return home tonight to play the Sharks, then don't play again until Saturday at home vs Boston.
******************************************************************************
The Eagles start preparing for their upcoming west coast trip. starting this Sunday night at Seattle. I'll make my pick later this week. The Seahawks aren't what they used to be, but , despite losing at home recently, still are a dangerous team, especially in Seattle.
The Birds will stay on the west coast next week to practice while getting ready to take on the Rams in Los Angeles.
* A correction from yesterday's blog: The Eagles fumbled a total of four times on Sunday against the Bears, not just two times. Ina season where everything seems to be falling right for the team, the fumbling issue is something Coach Pederson and his staff can work on with the players.
Wentz is doing a great job not throwing interceptions, especially in the Red Zone.Overall, one of the keys to the Birds' success and their 10-1 record is not turning the ball over. They force giveaways, not turn the ball over themselves. Yet, even with the fumbles, the Eagles blew away Chicago.
*****************************************************************************
Ex- Eagles coach Chip Kelly was introduced as head coach at UCLA yesterday, and basically handed out the same BS he has been shoveling for years. He claims that one of the keys to winning championships ( even though Kelly himself has never won a championship)is communication. Funny, when Kelly was in Philly, he would ignorant many people within the Nova Care Center.
Because he is basically a college coach and nothing more, and can recruit, Kelly may do well with the Bruins. But listen LA: take it from a city that knows the truth- get ready to hear a lot of excuses when things don't go well.
***************************************************************************
Eagles' GM Howie Rossman deservedly is getting his share of credit for the 10-1 resurgence of the team. Owner Jeff Luire needs a lot of praise as well, for getting rid of the destructive Kelly when he did, and for bringing back Rossman. Pederson may be Coach of the Year, and has pretty much erased many doubts of his abilities.Defensive Coordinator Jim Swartz has great defensive players and are using them effectively.
But give Personnel Director Joe Thomas, who came to Philadelphia from Baltimore, a lot of credit too. He clearly is great at evaluating talent, and seems to have Rossman's ear when he comes to players, trades and free agent signings.
Finally, I'm starting to think the only sort of team that can derail these Eagles is a team with a great quarterback. Someone like Drew Brees, who won't be fazed by anything a defense throws at him, worries me more than Minnesota or even an inconsistent Cam Newton and Carolina.
Matt Ryan and the Falcons could be a concern in the playoffs- if they make the playoffs. Russell Wilson, the QB that the Eagles face this Sunday night, can scramble away from pressure. I'm not worried about Jared Goff. The Rams may get into the playoffs, but will their inexperience hurt them in big, pressure-packed games?
Monday, November 27, 2017
DREAMCATCHER
More dreams and what they mean ...
* Football-
If you dreamed of playing football, a money windfall of some kind should soon come your way. Could be a lucky gamble, an unexpected bonus, extra dividends, or even a legacy, but whatever it is it will be an interesting size. A dream of watching a football game is a warning to be more selective in making new friends.
* Sports-
Any display of sportsmanship in a dream is a generally favorable omen and indicates advancement in your chosen endeavor through the help of influential friends. boring buy useful
More specifically; Badminton suggests important decisions in the offing; Baseball promises a happy home life; Basketball predicts competitive but satisfactory sex affairs; Cricket forecasts boring but useful social affairs.
It is especially lucky to dream of winning in any athletic or sports endeavor. To injure yourself in a game means business and/or social advancement.
* Subway'
To dream of being on or in a subway portends a series of minor setbacks and/or petty disappointments. Don't get discouraged; they will soon be a faded memory.
* Football-
If you dreamed of playing football, a money windfall of some kind should soon come your way. Could be a lucky gamble, an unexpected bonus, extra dividends, or even a legacy, but whatever it is it will be an interesting size. A dream of watching a football game is a warning to be more selective in making new friends.
* Sports-
Any display of sportsmanship in a dream is a generally favorable omen and indicates advancement in your chosen endeavor through the help of influential friends. boring buy useful
More specifically; Badminton suggests important decisions in the offing; Baseball promises a happy home life; Basketball predicts competitive but satisfactory sex affairs; Cricket forecasts boring but useful social affairs.
It is especially lucky to dream of winning in any athletic or sports endeavor. To injure yourself in a game means business and/or social advancement.
* Subway'
To dream of being on or in a subway portends a series of minor setbacks and/or petty disappointments. Don't get discouraged; they will soon be a faded memory.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES-BEARS WRAP-UP
Sizing up the Eagles 31-3 romp over the Chicago Bears......
* The Eagles move to 10-1. If Washington beats Dallas on Thursday, the Birds officially win the NFC East title. Philly isn't just beating teams- they now have a 9-game winning streak- they are destroying them. They have beaten the last four teams by over 23 points.
*The Eagles are the best team in the Red Zone in the league. They don't turn the ball over near the goal line-Wentz has no interceptions at all in the Red Zone- and they score touchdowns once they get close.
They did fumble twice yesterday, which is a concern and didn't cost them. But overall, turnovers have been a key to the Eagles' success, and in a good way.
* Not playing down to their competition has been a hallmark of this Eagles' squad. Fans and the media were worried about the Bears being a "trap" game before the team heads west.But the Eagles took care of business, no let-down, knowing the goal is now to get a playoff bye and home field advantage thru-out the playoffs.
New Orleans lost to the Rams yesterday which drops the Saints to three losses. Minnesota still lurks behind the Eagles at 9-2. The Rams are also 8-3, with Seattle right behind them at 7-4. Philadelphia plays the Seahawks and Rams the next two weeks.
* The team is at the point now that if the Birds don't at least make the Super Bowl, it will be a huge disappointment. because it appears the Eagles do have the best team in football .I've always said, a Philadelphia team will finally win a championship when least expected. No one thought the Eagles would be this good.Others said 8-8. I predicted 10-6. They already have 10 win- with 5 games to go.
* WR Alshon Jeffery is gradually starting to take over and show why he's a true No.1 receiver, something the Eagles badly needed. He had another good game, this time against his old team, the Bears, and he and Carson Wentz seem to be developing a more consistent bond. The front office should think about signing Jeffery long-time, as he becomes a free agent after the season ends.
You could replace Torry Smith next year with Mack Hollins, but Jeffery should be with this team long-term.
* The defense once again were monsters, shutting down the Chicago ground game to a mere few yards. The Bears didn't get a first down until very plate in the first half. They get after opposing quarterbacks. Even with starting middle linebacker Jordan Hicks out for the year, the defense hasn't missed a beat. The team depth and unity is amazing, championship-worthy.
* The announcers on the Fox broadcast - Kevin Burkhart and Charles Jones- were just OK ( at least Dick Stockton wasn't there). But as we get closer to the playoffs, the announcers will get better, starting next Sunday night with Al Michaels and Cris Collingsworth.
* The Eagles teammates are having fun with his run, maybe even more than the fans. Their celebrations are fun, doing the Electric Slide together after scores. With more national exposure, this team will catch on with football fans everywhere.
They aren't coming off as cocky (of course, if we were the opposition, maybe I would be pissed off), just having fun, enjoying the ride. Loving the journey is part of the fun, and the players themselves are showing the doubting fans that it's OK to enjoy the ride.Coach Oederson seems fine with the celebrations, as long as they don't cross the line and result in taunting or penalties.
The team has style, as most championship-caliber teams do, Remember the "Icky Shuffle" or "Refrigerator" Perry and the dancing Chicago Bear team of 1985?It's what makes sports fun, especially when it's your team doing the celebrating.
* Every Saturday morning during football season, Howard Eskin ( who I like) has a sports handicapper on named Marc Lawrence. He has been on with Eskin for years and makes interesting listening. But as a handicapper, he sucks.
Once again, he blew it yesterday, taking the huge 14 point spread with Chicago. But it's not only that he seems to weekly pick losers ( he loves taking underdogs), his logic is just plain stupid
He has tons of data and computer stats. He plays on trends, what a team did in the past. Like yesterday, it seems as though the Eagles have a poor record at home, coming off a Sunday night road game the week before.But Lawrence doesn't understand this is a different eagles team. This club has nothing to do with a team that played 10 years ago.
I get revenge games- games that happen in the same season. But when Lawrence- or any sports handicapper- gives advice because of a record that may have transpired years ago, I don't buy it.
Lawrence may be fun to listen to, and gives fans or bettors food for thought, but I wouldn't play his picks. With the Eagles so good, and most likely a favorite for the rest of the season, don't expect Lawrence to be on the Eagles' side many times in the next few weeks.
* After the Steelers beat green Bay last night, 31-28 to move to 9-2 on the year,Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin stated that his team "should win it all" ( the Super Bowl. It's great to have confidence in your own guys. But the Steelers need to get by New England-probably twice- to even reach the big game
Pittsburgh will need to beat the Patriots in week 15 to get home field advantage, which will be big in the playoffs. Win or lose, Pittsburgh will most likely play the Pats gain in the AFC Championship game.
Playing the eagles in the Super Bowl won't be an easy task wither. Tomlin just gave a few teams some bulletin board material for down the road.
* Was RB Jay Ajayi pouting after the game while getting interviewed in the locker room? Was he down after fumbling into the end zone ( the ball was recovered by Nelson Agahlor ), bummed by not breaking away from the pack on a long run again, or pouting because he's not getting the ball enough?
It was claimed he had an attitude problem in Miami. There's great chemistry in the Eagles' locker room now, and if there is any bad feelings going on by Ajayi, cooler heads will prevail and the vets will talk to him and advise him not to be so selfish by spoiling this special season.
* TE Zach Ertz had the first 100-yard receiving game this season. He's having a Pro Bowl year, Wentz' most reliable receiver. With all the stars on this team, Ertz' effort -his break-out- season- may be the most under the radar.
It helps that the outside wide-outs are opening up the slot are and the middle for Ertz to roam. But he also has to catch the ball, and Ertz has done a great job so far in 2-17.
* So, what does it all mean? The Birds go to 10-1 and are set to clinch their division. Goal No.1 is checked off. Now it's a matter of getting best record in the NFC, so a first-round bye and home field advantage is secured.
Who is going to beat the Eagles? Let's look at the last five games carefully:
- Next Sunday night-at Seattle-
The Seahawks aren't what they used to be, even at home. They are missing Chancellor and Sherman on defense. A e now then before.
-At Los Angeles-
A tough game with the upstart Rams in LA, but also a winnable game. The Rams are one of the youngest teams in the NFL. How will they hold up against a team as good as the Eagles?
- At New York Giants-
A division rivalry game. The Giants would love nothing better but to derail the Birds' path to the playoffs. But let's face reality- the Giants don't have a chance here.
- Vs. Oakland-
Like one last Christmas present, this Monday night game against the Raiders ( who may be desperately fighting for a wild card spot or even for the AFC West crown) will be wild at the Linc. What if it's snowing? What if the Eagles are 13-1 and could wrap up home field advantage thru-out the playoffs with a win? Merry Christmas, ;Philadelphia!
- Vs Dallas
It won't mean the NFC East,t hat's for sure. It could mean absolutely nothing to either team. The Cowboys will be out of the playoffs by this New Year's Eve clash, and the eagles may be resting their starters for the upcoming playoffs.
So, an unbelievable 15-1 record is totally possible. I don't know how or when, but I think the Birds lose one game sometime before the end of the season ( probably a road game at Seattle or LA)..14-2 would be fantastic going into a home playoff game.
* The Eagles move to 10-1. If Washington beats Dallas on Thursday, the Birds officially win the NFC East title. Philly isn't just beating teams- they now have a 9-game winning streak- they are destroying them. They have beaten the last four teams by over 23 points.
*The Eagles are the best team in the Red Zone in the league. They don't turn the ball over near the goal line-Wentz has no interceptions at all in the Red Zone- and they score touchdowns once they get close.
They did fumble twice yesterday, which is a concern and didn't cost them. But overall, turnovers have been a key to the Eagles' success, and in a good way.
* Not playing down to their competition has been a hallmark of this Eagles' squad. Fans and the media were worried about the Bears being a "trap" game before the team heads west.But the Eagles took care of business, no let-down, knowing the goal is now to get a playoff bye and home field advantage thru-out the playoffs.
New Orleans lost to the Rams yesterday which drops the Saints to three losses. Minnesota still lurks behind the Eagles at 9-2. The Rams are also 8-3, with Seattle right behind them at 7-4. Philadelphia plays the Seahawks and Rams the next two weeks.
* The team is at the point now that if the Birds don't at least make the Super Bowl, it will be a huge disappointment. because it appears the Eagles do have the best team in football .I've always said, a Philadelphia team will finally win a championship when least expected. No one thought the Eagles would be this good.Others said 8-8. I predicted 10-6. They already have 10 win- with 5 games to go.
* WR Alshon Jeffery is gradually starting to take over and show why he's a true No.1 receiver, something the Eagles badly needed. He had another good game, this time against his old team, the Bears, and he and Carson Wentz seem to be developing a more consistent bond. The front office should think about signing Jeffery long-time, as he becomes a free agent after the season ends.
You could replace Torry Smith next year with Mack Hollins, but Jeffery should be with this team long-term.
* The defense once again were monsters, shutting down the Chicago ground game to a mere few yards. The Bears didn't get a first down until very plate in the first half. They get after opposing quarterbacks. Even with starting middle linebacker Jordan Hicks out for the year, the defense hasn't missed a beat. The team depth and unity is amazing, championship-worthy.
* The announcers on the Fox broadcast - Kevin Burkhart and Charles Jones- were just OK ( at least Dick Stockton wasn't there). But as we get closer to the playoffs, the announcers will get better, starting next Sunday night with Al Michaels and Cris Collingsworth.
* The Eagles teammates are having fun with his run, maybe even more than the fans. Their celebrations are fun, doing the Electric Slide together after scores. With more national exposure, this team will catch on with football fans everywhere.
They aren't coming off as cocky (of course, if we were the opposition, maybe I would be pissed off), just having fun, enjoying the ride. Loving the journey is part of the fun, and the players themselves are showing the doubting fans that it's OK to enjoy the ride.Coach Oederson seems fine with the celebrations, as long as they don't cross the line and result in taunting or penalties.
The team has style, as most championship-caliber teams do, Remember the "Icky Shuffle" or "Refrigerator" Perry and the dancing Chicago Bear team of 1985?It's what makes sports fun, especially when it's your team doing the celebrating.
* Every Saturday morning during football season, Howard Eskin ( who I like) has a sports handicapper on named Marc Lawrence. He has been on with Eskin for years and makes interesting listening. But as a handicapper, he sucks.
Once again, he blew it yesterday, taking the huge 14 point spread with Chicago. But it's not only that he seems to weekly pick losers ( he loves taking underdogs), his logic is just plain stupid
He has tons of data and computer stats. He plays on trends, what a team did in the past. Like yesterday, it seems as though the Eagles have a poor record at home, coming off a Sunday night road game the week before.But Lawrence doesn't understand this is a different eagles team. This club has nothing to do with a team that played 10 years ago.
I get revenge games- games that happen in the same season. But when Lawrence- or any sports handicapper- gives advice because of a record that may have transpired years ago, I don't buy it.
Lawrence may be fun to listen to, and gives fans or bettors food for thought, but I wouldn't play his picks. With the Eagles so good, and most likely a favorite for the rest of the season, don't expect Lawrence to be on the Eagles' side many times in the next few weeks.
* After the Steelers beat green Bay last night, 31-28 to move to 9-2 on the year,Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin stated that his team "should win it all" ( the Super Bowl. It's great to have confidence in your own guys. But the Steelers need to get by New England-probably twice- to even reach the big game
Pittsburgh will need to beat the Patriots in week 15 to get home field advantage, which will be big in the playoffs. Win or lose, Pittsburgh will most likely play the Pats gain in the AFC Championship game.
Playing the eagles in the Super Bowl won't be an easy task wither. Tomlin just gave a few teams some bulletin board material for down the road.
* Was RB Jay Ajayi pouting after the game while getting interviewed in the locker room? Was he down after fumbling into the end zone ( the ball was recovered by Nelson Agahlor ), bummed by not breaking away from the pack on a long run again, or pouting because he's not getting the ball enough?
It was claimed he had an attitude problem in Miami. There's great chemistry in the Eagles' locker room now, and if there is any bad feelings going on by Ajayi, cooler heads will prevail and the vets will talk to him and advise him not to be so selfish by spoiling this special season.
* TE Zach Ertz had the first 100-yard receiving game this season. He's having a Pro Bowl year, Wentz' most reliable receiver. With all the stars on this team, Ertz' effort -his break-out- season- may be the most under the radar.
It helps that the outside wide-outs are opening up the slot are and the middle for Ertz to roam. But he also has to catch the ball, and Ertz has done a great job so far in 2-17.
* So, what does it all mean? The Birds go to 10-1 and are set to clinch their division. Goal No.1 is checked off. Now it's a matter of getting best record in the NFC, so a first-round bye and home field advantage is secured.
Who is going to beat the Eagles? Let's look at the last five games carefully:
- Next Sunday night-at Seattle-
The Seahawks aren't what they used to be, even at home. They are missing Chancellor and Sherman on defense. A e now then before.
-At Los Angeles-
A tough game with the upstart Rams in LA, but also a winnable game. The Rams are one of the youngest teams in the NFL. How will they hold up against a team as good as the Eagles?
- At New York Giants-
A division rivalry game. The Giants would love nothing better but to derail the Birds' path to the playoffs. But let's face reality- the Giants don't have a chance here.
- Vs. Oakland-
Like one last Christmas present, this Monday night game against the Raiders ( who may be desperately fighting for a wild card spot or even for the AFC West crown) will be wild at the Linc. What if it's snowing? What if the Eagles are 13-1 and could wrap up home field advantage thru-out the playoffs with a win? Merry Christmas, ;Philadelphia!
- Vs Dallas
It won't mean the NFC East,t hat's for sure. It could mean absolutely nothing to either team. The Cowboys will be out of the playoffs by this New Year's Eve clash, and the eagles may be resting their starters for the upcoming playoffs.
So, an unbelievable 15-1 record is totally possible. I don't know how or when, but I think the Birds lose one game sometime before the end of the season ( probably a road game at Seattle or LA)..14-2 would be fantastic going into a home playoff game.
Sunday, November 26, 2017
IN MY LIFE-KING OF PRUSSIA MALL
I do most of my holiday shopping on line anymore, as do a lot of Americans. It's easy. Items are delivered to your door. You can shop at 3 a.m. if you want. No worriers about traffic, parking or the weather. Sometimes it's too easy.
Tomorrow is Cyber Monday. There will be all kinds of deals and scams on the internet. People will be on their computers, laptops, tablets or phone-either at home or at work-shopping like crazy. In fact, the early indications from Black Friday til now is record-breaking buying.
Yesterday we went to the gigantic King of Prussia Mall. No matter how convenient on-line shopping is, there's still nothing like shopping at the mall around Christmas. The lights and decorations, the Santa Claus set-up, the trees and poinsettia plants, the Christmas music, just the bustling crowds alone, most happy and smiling, let you know it's Christmas again.
The Mall was expecting around a half a million visitors for the entire Black Friday weekend. But it wasn't so crowded when we arrived before noon.
King of Prussia is cool because each store is unique. It was sad to see the former Pennies location still not occupied. KoP seems to have everything but a really good bookstore. Maybe a Barnes & Noble would do good in the old Pennies location?
With the economy doing better I expect the volume of shopping to remain steady all the way til Christmas. So dos hop-owners. There are always the last-minute shoppers (procrastinators), and with Christmas being on a Monday this year, the weekend before will be extra special crazy.
There were a lot of great deals in the stores yesterday. The Hallmark store, one of my favorites, was packed. Choosing a Christmas card is an all-day deal now. Cards to and from your dog, or great-great-great grampa,and individual cards , not just for a co-worker- but for a secretary or a nurse.Gift-wrapping paper, gift-bags ( my favorite), colorful bows and ribbon, and Christmas stickers. Cards that light-up and play music and tell stories.
Malls bring out the kid in you again, the toy stores, the candy stores especially. The ugly Christmas sweaters on sale ( no wonder). There are little kiosks everywhere.The food court is jammed. And maybe it's too soon, and people aren't frustrated yet, but everyone seemed nice.
I get it why people say "Happy Holidays" these days. But to me, the word Christmas has a meaning, and there's nothing like saying or hearing "Merry Christmas"So, politically correct or not, I'm still saying "Merry Christmas."
Maybe we will hit the mall again before December 25, if only to soak up more of the holiday spirit. The Exton Mall awaits next.
Tomorrow is Cyber Monday. There will be all kinds of deals and scams on the internet. People will be on their computers, laptops, tablets or phone-either at home or at work-shopping like crazy. In fact, the early indications from Black Friday til now is record-breaking buying.
Yesterday we went to the gigantic King of Prussia Mall. No matter how convenient on-line shopping is, there's still nothing like shopping at the mall around Christmas. The lights and decorations, the Santa Claus set-up, the trees and poinsettia plants, the Christmas music, just the bustling crowds alone, most happy and smiling, let you know it's Christmas again.
The Mall was expecting around a half a million visitors for the entire Black Friday weekend. But it wasn't so crowded when we arrived before noon.
King of Prussia is cool because each store is unique. It was sad to see the former Pennies location still not occupied. KoP seems to have everything but a really good bookstore. Maybe a Barnes & Noble would do good in the old Pennies location?
With the economy doing better I expect the volume of shopping to remain steady all the way til Christmas. So dos hop-owners. There are always the last-minute shoppers (procrastinators), and with Christmas being on a Monday this year, the weekend before will be extra special crazy.
There were a lot of great deals in the stores yesterday. The Hallmark store, one of my favorites, was packed. Choosing a Christmas card is an all-day deal now. Cards to and from your dog, or great-great-great grampa,and individual cards , not just for a co-worker- but for a secretary or a nurse.Gift-wrapping paper, gift-bags ( my favorite), colorful bows and ribbon, and Christmas stickers. Cards that light-up and play music and tell stories.
Malls bring out the kid in you again, the toy stores, the candy stores especially. The ugly Christmas sweaters on sale ( no wonder). There are little kiosks everywhere.The food court is jammed. And maybe it's too soon, and people aren't frustrated yet, but everyone seemed nice.
I get it why people say "Happy Holidays" these days. But to me, the word Christmas has a meaning, and there's nothing like saying or hearing "Merry Christmas"So, politically correct or not, I'm still saying "Merry Christmas."
Maybe we will hit the mall again before December 25, if only to soak up more of the holiday spirit. The Exton Mall awaits next.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS FLYERS, , EAGLES
* Give the Sixers credit. After losing a heartbreaking game last Saturday night to the world champion Golden State Warriors- a game in which the Sixers once led by as many as 24 points- Philly has reeled off three consecutive wins.
Even with Ben Simmons out with a sore left elbow (he may also be out Monday night against the Cavaliers)the 76'ers beat Orlando last night, 130-111 (the Magics' 8th straight loss). They are 3-1 on their 6-game home stand, 11-7 overall, the first time they have been at least 4 games over .500 in four years.
The Sixers are proving to have depth. With their fun, young squad, free agents will want to come to Philadelphia, so the future looks bright.
* Meanwhile, the Flyers have lost 7 games in a row and are going in the opposite direction. They play at the Penguins Monday night, then return to the Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday to play yet another Western Conference team, the San Jose Sharks.
*Former Eagles coach Chip Kelly was named head coach of UCLA yesterday. There was never any doubt that Kelly would go back to coaching. His system and quirkiness didn't work in the NFL, but he was a good recruiter at Oregon, and had more bodies to implement his weird offenses in college. He knows the PAC-10 schools and the west coast lifestyle, so he should do well.
For a guy who totally destroyed the Philadelphia franchise, and didn't do much better in San Francisco, he hit another big payday at UCLA.
* The Birds are only hours away from taking on the Bears. The line is a solid 14 points, approaching 15 points. The Eagles need to take care of business against Chicago, then will keep a close eye on another key game later- the Saints at the Rams.
LA beating New Orleans would help the Eagles, as the Birds can take care of the Rams in two weeks. No matter, as long as Philly keeps winning, they will secure a playoff bye and home field advantage.
Even with Ben Simmons out with a sore left elbow (he may also be out Monday night against the Cavaliers)the 76'ers beat Orlando last night, 130-111 (the Magics' 8th straight loss). They are 3-1 on their 6-game home stand, 11-7 overall, the first time they have been at least 4 games over .500 in four years.
The Sixers are proving to have depth. With their fun, young squad, free agents will want to come to Philadelphia, so the future looks bright.
* Meanwhile, the Flyers have lost 7 games in a row and are going in the opposite direction. They play at the Penguins Monday night, then return to the Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday to play yet another Western Conference team, the San Jose Sharks.
*Former Eagles coach Chip Kelly was named head coach of UCLA yesterday. There was never any doubt that Kelly would go back to coaching. His system and quirkiness didn't work in the NFL, but he was a good recruiter at Oregon, and had more bodies to implement his weird offenses in college. He knows the PAC-10 schools and the west coast lifestyle, so he should do well.
For a guy who totally destroyed the Philadelphia franchise, and didn't do much better in San Francisco, he hit another big payday at UCLA.
* The Birds are only hours away from taking on the Bears. The line is a solid 14 points, approaching 15 points. The Eagles need to take care of business against Chicago, then will keep a close eye on another key game later- the Saints at the Rams.
LA beating New Orleans would help the Eagles, as the Birds can take care of the Rams in two weeks. No matter, as long as Philly keeps winning, they will secure a playoff bye and home field advantage.
Saturday, November 25, 2017
IN MY LIFE-FREDDIE MERCURY
Friday was 26 years ( hard to believe) since the rock band Queen's lead singer, Freddie Mercury, died from AIDS.
He had one of the greatest voices in music, a four-octave range. He was a showman, a lead singer you couldn't take your eyes off.He was sexy and fun and could control a big crowd in the palm of his hand.
Queen's "comeback" performance was in 1985 at Live Aid at London's Wembley Stadium. Their 20 minute performance stands at one of the greatest live segments in rock history.
I never saw Queen live in concert, but I wish I had. I can imagine they were incredibly fun, intense and rocking.
Queen has toured in recent years with other lead singers, notably Raul Rodgers and Adam Lambert. Good, competent singers, but no Freddie Mercury.
I like most of Queen's music, but really didn't have a desire to see an aging Brian May and another lead singer do classics like "We Will Rock You" or "Another One Bites The Dust" ( although Lambert's reviews were good).
It just wouldn't be the same. It would be like The Beatles reuniting without John. Good but not the same.
There's a biopic planned for next year about Mercury. it will be interesting to see how they pull off the singing. Who else has a voice like Mercury?
And maybe that's the point- there wasn't anyone like Freddie Mercury and probably will never be again.
He had one of the greatest voices in music, a four-octave range. He was a showman, a lead singer you couldn't take your eyes off.He was sexy and fun and could control a big crowd in the palm of his hand.
Queen's "comeback" performance was in 1985 at Live Aid at London's Wembley Stadium. Their 20 minute performance stands at one of the greatest live segments in rock history.
I never saw Queen live in concert, but I wish I had. I can imagine they were incredibly fun, intense and rocking.
Queen has toured in recent years with other lead singers, notably Raul Rodgers and Adam Lambert. Good, competent singers, but no Freddie Mercury.
I like most of Queen's music, but really didn't have a desire to see an aging Brian May and another lead singer do classics like "We Will Rock You" or "Another One Bites The Dust" ( although Lambert's reviews were good).
It just wouldn't be the same. It would be like The Beatles reuniting without John. Good but not the same.
There's a biopic planned for next year about Mercury. it will be interesting to see how they pull off the singing. Who else has a voice like Mercury?
And maybe that's the point- there wasn't anyone like Freddie Mercury and probably will never be again.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, EAGLES
* The Flyers are currently pathetic. e Stepford fans who claim the Flyers are young...have played tough Western Conference teams...etc...They suck right now, losers of 7 games in a row.
They are losing a lot at home. And even if they do get it together and make their typical run at the playoffs ( why do they always seem to be digging themselves out of a hole?), they will regret losing these key games at home.
Obviously, they need a coaching change. It's not good enough to claim, "Well, we got a point" after blowing a two-goal lead a t home to a division rival ( who already beat you two days earlier).. As stated before, the Flyers won't win a thing until they get a true No. 1 goaltender.
They are stuck for this year, playing a combo of Nirwurth and Elliot in goal, waiting until a young stud goailie emerges from the minors. They could trade Giroux and get even younger. They really are in purgatory, if not hell.
I really thought, with their youth movement, the Flyers would be a lot farther along then they are. When you lose 7 games in a row in any sport, your team is not going in the right direction. Start with the coach.
***************************************************************************
The line on the Eagles-Bears game tomorrow is approaching an amazing 15 points. I predict a 17 point spread, Eagles 24 Bears 7. This could be a so-called "trap" game, with a three-game road trip awaiting, especially a key contest with Seattle next week. But I don't think the coaches and players will allow a letdown. It's good that Minnesota and New Orleans are pushing them for best overall record, playoff bye and home-field advantage.
I don't know who will beat the Eagles in the end. Some fans are wishing the Birds lose before the playoffs, to get them "hungry" again and all the other cliches. Why? Why can't the Eagles end up 15-1 and cruise into the playoffs? Why must they lose a game to have a chance at the Super Bowl?
Philly is a team of destiny this season. Everything is breaking right for them, plus add into the mix their depth and the fact all of their division rivals- Cowboys, Giants and Redskins- suck.
It's a special season. Enjoy the ride, wherever the ride takes us.
They are losing a lot at home. And even if they do get it together and make their typical run at the playoffs ( why do they always seem to be digging themselves out of a hole?), they will regret losing these key games at home.
Obviously, they need a coaching change. It's not good enough to claim, "Well, we got a point" after blowing a two-goal lead a t home to a division rival ( who already beat you two days earlier).. As stated before, the Flyers won't win a thing until they get a true No. 1 goaltender.
They are stuck for this year, playing a combo of Nirwurth and Elliot in goal, waiting until a young stud goailie emerges from the minors. They could trade Giroux and get even younger. They really are in purgatory, if not hell.
I really thought, with their youth movement, the Flyers would be a lot farther along then they are. When you lose 7 games in a row in any sport, your team is not going in the right direction. Start with the coach.
***************************************************************************
The line on the Eagles-Bears game tomorrow is approaching an amazing 15 points. I predict a 17 point spread, Eagles 24 Bears 7. This could be a so-called "trap" game, with a three-game road trip awaiting, especially a key contest with Seattle next week. But I don't think the coaches and players will allow a letdown. It's good that Minnesota and New Orleans are pushing them for best overall record, playoff bye and home-field advantage.
I don't know who will beat the Eagles in the end. Some fans are wishing the Birds lose before the playoffs, to get them "hungry" again and all the other cliches. Why? Why can't the Eagles end up 15-1 and cruise into the playoffs? Why must they lose a game to have a chance at the Super Bowl?
Philly is a team of destiny this season. Everything is breaking right for them, plus add into the mix their depth and the fact all of their division rivals- Cowboys, Giants and Redskins- suck.
It's a special season. Enjoy the ride, wherever the ride takes us.
Friday, November 24, 2017
IN THE NEWS- NEW DETAILS ON AGED BRAIN, ALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA REVEALED
This important news from Disability world...
Details discovered that will help researchers better understand the biological bases for Alzheimer's disease and dementia in older populations.
In a comprehensive analysis of samples from 107 aged human brains, researchers at the Allen Institute for brain Science, have discovered details that will help researchers better understand the biological bases for Alzheimer's disease and dementia in older populations. The analysis also highlights surprising variability in the aged brain, including examples of donors with resilience to pathology. The research is published this month in the journal eLife, and the data underlying the research are publicly available as part of the suite of open data resources at the Allen Brain Atlas portal.
"Since the population of individuals over 90 years of age is rapidly increasing, understanding both healthy aging and age-related disease is essential," says Ed Lein, Investigator at the Allen Institute. "This means we must discover how cognitive decline correlates with the brain pathologies we typically attribute to diseases like Alzheimer's in aged brains, as well as the biology underlying individual vulnerability and resilience to disease."
In this analysis, researchers sought to understand whether associations previously identified between cognitive status, gene expression and brain pathologies- such as the plaques and tangles typically found in Alzheimer's disease- held true in a well characterized, aged population. To achieve this goal, researchers developed a state of the art approach combining traditional and quantitative measures to probe the relationships between gene expression and age-related neurodegeneration.
"Several studies exist that compare expression in donor brains aged 60-85 years, but few in the more aged cohort we were able to study here,' says Jeremy Miller, Ph.D., Senior Scientist at Allen Institute.and lead author on the publication. 'We found that the more aged brains still showed a correlation between cognitive decline and the Alzheimer's-associated plaques and tangles, although the relationship was not as strong as in younger cohorts."
In addition, the research revealed a surprising relationship between dementia and decreased quality of RNA- a key player in gene expression- in the more aged brain.
"One factor that is not always taken into account when studying gene expression in the sged brain is the quality of the genetic material itself,' says Miller. "This variable is not necessarily related to any specific pathology or disease, but these results highlight the importance of properly controlling for RNA quality when studying the aged brain and indicate that degradation of genetic material may be an underappreciated feature of neurodegeneration or dementia."
All of the data underlying the research is part of the Aging, Dementia and TBI resource, freely available through the Allen Brain Atlas data portal. 'We want to promote a model of systematic, collaborative, multidimensional study of the diseased brain and open access to data and tools to facilitate discovery across the entire basic and biomedical research community," says Lein.
"We anticipate that this dataset and research model will inform and help shape future brain aging research to propel a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving neurological disease for improved diagnostic approaches and affective therapeutic strategies."
"We are grateful to the thousands of volunteer subjects who worked with us and those who donated their brains to science. The results are transformative in improving our understanding of the aging brain, a theme of the ACT study, which aims to learn ways to reduce the burden of dementia for individuals and society overall."
Details discovered that will help researchers better understand the biological bases for Alzheimer's disease and dementia in older populations.
In a comprehensive analysis of samples from 107 aged human brains, researchers at the Allen Institute for brain Science, have discovered details that will help researchers better understand the biological bases for Alzheimer's disease and dementia in older populations. The analysis also highlights surprising variability in the aged brain, including examples of donors with resilience to pathology. The research is published this month in the journal eLife, and the data underlying the research are publicly available as part of the suite of open data resources at the Allen Brain Atlas portal.
"Since the population of individuals over 90 years of age is rapidly increasing, understanding both healthy aging and age-related disease is essential," says Ed Lein, Investigator at the Allen Institute. "This means we must discover how cognitive decline correlates with the brain pathologies we typically attribute to diseases like Alzheimer's in aged brains, as well as the biology underlying individual vulnerability and resilience to disease."
In this analysis, researchers sought to understand whether associations previously identified between cognitive status, gene expression and brain pathologies- such as the plaques and tangles typically found in Alzheimer's disease- held true in a well characterized, aged population. To achieve this goal, researchers developed a state of the art approach combining traditional and quantitative measures to probe the relationships between gene expression and age-related neurodegeneration.
"Several studies exist that compare expression in donor brains aged 60-85 years, but few in the more aged cohort we were able to study here,' says Jeremy Miller, Ph.D., Senior Scientist at Allen Institute.and lead author on the publication. 'We found that the more aged brains still showed a correlation between cognitive decline and the Alzheimer's-associated plaques and tangles, although the relationship was not as strong as in younger cohorts."
In addition, the research revealed a surprising relationship between dementia and decreased quality of RNA- a key player in gene expression- in the more aged brain.
"One factor that is not always taken into account when studying gene expression in the sged brain is the quality of the genetic material itself,' says Miller. "This variable is not necessarily related to any specific pathology or disease, but these results highlight the importance of properly controlling for RNA quality when studying the aged brain and indicate that degradation of genetic material may be an underappreciated feature of neurodegeneration or dementia."
All of the data underlying the research is part of the Aging, Dementia and TBI resource, freely available through the Allen Brain Atlas data portal. 'We want to promote a model of systematic, collaborative, multidimensional study of the diseased brain and open access to data and tools to facilitate discovery across the entire basic and biomedical research community," says Lein.
"We anticipate that this dataset and research model will inform and help shape future brain aging research to propel a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving neurological disease for improved diagnostic approaches and affective therapeutic strategies."
"We are grateful to the thousands of volunteer subjects who worked with us and those who donated their brains to science. The results are transformative in improving our understanding of the aging brain, a theme of the ACT study, which aims to learn ways to reduce the burden of dementia for individuals and society overall."
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, PHILLIES, FLYERS
* Hopefully the Eagles had a nice Thanksgiving Day with their families, as they prepare to face the Chicago Bears. They had played the last two Thanksgivings.This year they could sit back, enjoy the holiday, knowing they are the best team in pro football.
It was so great to see the Cowboys continue to crumble. If the Chagrers didn't have an injured kicker and went fort two-point conversions like the Eagles did last Sunday vs Dallas, the score would've been even worse. 28-6 was the final score. Until the Cowboys scored a 4th quarter touchdown, they went a total of ten quarters without a TD,a team record.
Dallas falls to 5-6, in real danger of not making the playoffs, coming off a 13-3 season. Analyst/ex-Cowboy Tony Romo tried to rational things at the end, thinking Dallas still had a shot. They don't, especially when chaos reigns both on the field and off in Big D.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles (Romo got annoying yesterday when he kept referring to the Chargers as "San Diego") is also 5-6 but are going the other way. In the AFC West, with Kansas City sliding, anything is possible. LA has two home games coming up and can make their case for at least a wild card spot in the playoffs.
Minnesota defeated the Lions in the traditional Turkey Day game in Detroit, 30-23. The Vikings have a three-game lead in the NFC North now, with only five games to play. The Lions are about done for the division, but can still make noise for a wild card berth, holding a 6-5 record.
Washington beat the hapless Giants, 20-10, in the night game The Redskins are 5-6, technically still alive for a wild card, but realistically not. New York continues to play out the string, counting the days until their head coach is fired.
So, with Minnesota now 9-2, and New Orleans 8-2 (playing the 7-3 Rams in LA on Sunday), I think it's good for the Eagles to have other teams breathing down their neck going into the playoffs. It will keep the Birds motivated not to take a team like the Bears for granted. Every win counts towards the goal of securing a bye and home field advantage in the playoffs.
I would fear the Saints more, if only because of their great QB, Drew Brees. Playing in Philly against the Saints, in the January cold, would be big for the Eagles, as the Saints are tough in the Superdome. Minnesota has a better defense but no where near the weapons the Birds have. The inexperienced Rams, a warm-weather team, would probably be the easiest team to play in the NFC playoffs.Right now, the Falcons and Panthers would be the wild card clubs, both experienced and dangerous.
I still like the Eagles on Sunday, 24-7.
************************************************************************
* There's a report out that, if Chase Utley retires, he may come back to the Phillies organization as a bench coach to new manager Gabe Kapler. It would be a popular move, both with the players and the fans. I'm not sure if Utley is ready to officially retire. He's a free agent, and after coming off of a sub-par season. he may be ready to call it quits.
Still, his family is from Southern California. Why would he come back to Philly, just to stay in baseball? It's an interesting idea, however, as Utley is well-known for his work ethic and game-preparation, and could easily rub-off on the young Phillies players.
While we are a tit, why not bring back two other former Phillies?
Carlos Ruiz is a popular guy who would do well, not only with the Spanish-speaking players, but with the catchers and pitchers (I"m especially thinking of catcher Jorge Alfaro). Chooch hasn't retired yet either, but if he's leaning that way, the Phils organization should make a deal with him quickly.
Cole Hamels is a free agent after this season, if the Texas Rangers don't pick up his option ( doubtful). He still loves Philadelphia, he will be 35 but could be the left-handed veteran presence on a young staff. The Phillies need to at least consider it.
Hamels was in town recently, and coincidentally, it was the same day pitcher Roy Halliday tragically died in a plane crash. Hamels spoke later that night about Doc If the money is right, and the Phillies express interest, I don't see why Cole couldn't finish his career in Philly?
*************************************************************************
The Flyers play their annual and traditional Black Friday game this afternoon, this time taking on the New York Islnaders.
The Orange and Black have lost six in a row, and 11 of 15 games. A coaching change is on the horizon, which I agree with. But the Flyers will never win a Stanley Cup without a true No. 1 goalie.
I know they have a ton of young net minders on the way from juniors. Hopefully one of them will step up and be the guy. Until then, they keep patch working their situation in front of the net. Brian Elliot is another average goalie, like Steve Mason was. And Michael Nirwurth is nothing special.
The GM, Ron Hextall, is an ex-goaltender, so he should know how important it is to have a true No. 1 guy in net every night. Granted, they aren't easy to find, but how many years has it been since the team had a reliable goalie? Mistakes continue to be made (such as bad free agent signings and trades - think Bobroski in Columbus)..
Until the Flyers organization finally gets a No. 1 goalie, they are not going to hold a parade down Broad Street anytime soon.
It was so great to see the Cowboys continue to crumble. If the Chagrers didn't have an injured kicker and went fort two-point conversions like the Eagles did last Sunday vs Dallas, the score would've been even worse. 28-6 was the final score. Until the Cowboys scored a 4th quarter touchdown, they went a total of ten quarters without a TD,a team record.
Dallas falls to 5-6, in real danger of not making the playoffs, coming off a 13-3 season. Analyst/ex-Cowboy Tony Romo tried to rational things at the end, thinking Dallas still had a shot. They don't, especially when chaos reigns both on the field and off in Big D.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles (Romo got annoying yesterday when he kept referring to the Chargers as "San Diego") is also 5-6 but are going the other way. In the AFC West, with Kansas City sliding, anything is possible. LA has two home games coming up and can make their case for at least a wild card spot in the playoffs.
Minnesota defeated the Lions in the traditional Turkey Day game in Detroit, 30-23. The Vikings have a three-game lead in the NFC North now, with only five games to play. The Lions are about done for the division, but can still make noise for a wild card berth, holding a 6-5 record.
Washington beat the hapless Giants, 20-10, in the night game The Redskins are 5-6, technically still alive for a wild card, but realistically not. New York continues to play out the string, counting the days until their head coach is fired.
So, with Minnesota now 9-2, and New Orleans 8-2 (playing the 7-3 Rams in LA on Sunday), I think it's good for the Eagles to have other teams breathing down their neck going into the playoffs. It will keep the Birds motivated not to take a team like the Bears for granted. Every win counts towards the goal of securing a bye and home field advantage in the playoffs.
I would fear the Saints more, if only because of their great QB, Drew Brees. Playing in Philly against the Saints, in the January cold, would be big for the Eagles, as the Saints are tough in the Superdome. Minnesota has a better defense but no where near the weapons the Birds have. The inexperienced Rams, a warm-weather team, would probably be the easiest team to play in the NFC playoffs.Right now, the Falcons and Panthers would be the wild card clubs, both experienced and dangerous.
I still like the Eagles on Sunday, 24-7.
************************************************************************
* There's a report out that, if Chase Utley retires, he may come back to the Phillies organization as a bench coach to new manager Gabe Kapler. It would be a popular move, both with the players and the fans. I'm not sure if Utley is ready to officially retire. He's a free agent, and after coming off of a sub-par season. he may be ready to call it quits.
Still, his family is from Southern California. Why would he come back to Philly, just to stay in baseball? It's an interesting idea, however, as Utley is well-known for his work ethic and game-preparation, and could easily rub-off on the young Phillies players.
While we are a tit, why not bring back two other former Phillies?
Carlos Ruiz is a popular guy who would do well, not only with the Spanish-speaking players, but with the catchers and pitchers (I"m especially thinking of catcher Jorge Alfaro). Chooch hasn't retired yet either, but if he's leaning that way, the Phils organization should make a deal with him quickly.
Cole Hamels is a free agent after this season, if the Texas Rangers don't pick up his option ( doubtful). He still loves Philadelphia, he will be 35 but could be the left-handed veteran presence on a young staff. The Phillies need to at least consider it.
Hamels was in town recently, and coincidentally, it was the same day pitcher Roy Halliday tragically died in a plane crash. Hamels spoke later that night about Doc If the money is right, and the Phillies express interest, I don't see why Cole couldn't finish his career in Philly?
*************************************************************************
The Flyers play their annual and traditional Black Friday game this afternoon, this time taking on the New York Islnaders.
The Orange and Black have lost six in a row, and 11 of 15 games. A coaching change is on the horizon, which I agree with. But the Flyers will never win a Stanley Cup without a true No. 1 goalie.
I know they have a ton of young net minders on the way from juniors. Hopefully one of them will step up and be the guy. Until then, they keep patch working their situation in front of the net. Brian Elliot is another average goalie, like Steve Mason was. And Michael Nirwurth is nothing special.
The GM, Ron Hextall, is an ex-goaltender, so he should know how important it is to have a true No. 1 guy in net every night. Granted, they aren't easy to find, but how many years has it been since the team had a reliable goalie? Mistakes continue to be made (such as bad free agent signings and trades - think Bobroski in Columbus)..
Until the Flyers organization finally gets a No. 1 goalie, they are not going to hold a parade down Broad Street anytime soon.
Thursday, November 23, 2017
IN THE NEWS- NEW SPORTS AND DISCIPLINES FOR PARIS 2024 PARALYMPICS
This news is from Disability World..
International Paralympic Committee confirms 8 new sports and 3 sport disciplines have expressed an interest in applying for inclusion in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
The 2024 Summer Paralympics also known as the 17th Summer Paralympic Games, are an upcoming major international multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities governed by the International Paralympic Committee ( IOC), to be held in Paris, France from 4th to 15th September 2024. The 2024 Paralympics will mark the first time Paris has hosted the Paralympics in the games history. The final venue decision was made by the IOC on 13th September 2017, at their annual conference in Lima, Peru.
The International Paralympic Committee has confirmed that eight new sports and three sport disciplines have expressed an interest in applying for inclusion in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program.
As part of a 14-month exercise by the IPC to determine the final sports program for Paris 2024, recognized international federations of summer sports not yet on the Paralympic program had until 21 November to notify the IPC whether they wanted to be considered for inclusion.
Eight international federations- CP Football, Powerchair Football, Golf, Surfing, Armwrestling, Karate, Para Dance and sailing- all expressed an interest to be included.
By 21 November, existing international federations with sports and disciplines on the program were also free to suggest additional sports and disciplines for inclusion in the 2024 Games.
Wheelchair Basketball has put forward the 3 x 3 discipline of the sport. Taekwondo has expressed an interest and Para Shooting Sport has proposed the inclusion of Para trap shooting. Andrew Parsons, IPC President, said:
"We truly believe that the application process to be included in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program will be the most competitive yet and this is reflected with the number of sports and disciplines expressing an interest for inclusion."
"No sport is guaranteed a place at Paris 2024 and the IPC will now analyze these applications to determine which sports and disciplines go forward to the next phase. In the second phase of this exercise the level of competition will increase dramatically as sports already on the Paralympic program will enter the race."
On 27 January 2018, the IPC Governing Board will meet in Bonn,Germany, to decide which sports and disciplines from those who have ex[pressed an interest are eligible to enter Phase 2 of the application process.
From February 2018, the 22 established Paralympic sports, plus those additional sports and disciplines approved by the Governing Board, will be invited to complete a comprehensive application pack by July 2018. The pack features a series of questions that aims to give the IPC detailed information regarding each sport's governance, rules and regulations, associated costs, anti-doping program compliance and activ
Following a thorough review of all applications, including full agreement from the IOC and Paris 2024, the iPC Governing board will announce its final decision on the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program in early 2019.
The first Paralympic Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 and featured 400 athletes from 23 countries who competed in eight sports- archery, athletics,dartchery, snooker, swimming, table tennis, wheelchair fencing and wheelchair basketball.
International Paralympic Committee confirms 8 new sports and 3 sport disciplines have expressed an interest in applying for inclusion in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
The 2024 Summer Paralympics also known as the 17th Summer Paralympic Games, are an upcoming major international multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities governed by the International Paralympic Committee ( IOC), to be held in Paris, France from 4th to 15th September 2024. The 2024 Paralympics will mark the first time Paris has hosted the Paralympics in the games history. The final venue decision was made by the IOC on 13th September 2017, at their annual conference in Lima, Peru.
The International Paralympic Committee has confirmed that eight new sports and three sport disciplines have expressed an interest in applying for inclusion in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program.
As part of a 14-month exercise by the IPC to determine the final sports program for Paris 2024, recognized international federations of summer sports not yet on the Paralympic program had until 21 November to notify the IPC whether they wanted to be considered for inclusion.
Eight international federations- CP Football, Powerchair Football, Golf, Surfing, Armwrestling, Karate, Para Dance and sailing- all expressed an interest to be included.
By 21 November, existing international federations with sports and disciplines on the program were also free to suggest additional sports and disciplines for inclusion in the 2024 Games.
Wheelchair Basketball has put forward the 3 x 3 discipline of the sport. Taekwondo has expressed an interest and Para Shooting Sport has proposed the inclusion of Para trap shooting. Andrew Parsons, IPC President, said:
"We truly believe that the application process to be included in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program will be the most competitive yet and this is reflected with the number of sports and disciplines expressing an interest for inclusion."
"No sport is guaranteed a place at Paris 2024 and the IPC will now analyze these applications to determine which sports and disciplines go forward to the next phase. In the second phase of this exercise the level of competition will increase dramatically as sports already on the Paralympic program will enter the race."
On 27 January 2018, the IPC Governing Board will meet in Bonn,Germany, to decide which sports and disciplines from those who have ex[pressed an interest are eligible to enter Phase 2 of the application process.
From February 2018, the 22 established Paralympic sports, plus those additional sports and disciplines approved by the Governing Board, will be invited to complete a comprehensive application pack by July 2018. The pack features a series of questions that aims to give the IPC detailed information regarding each sport's governance, rules and regulations, associated costs, anti-doping program compliance and activ
Following a thorough review of all applications, including full agreement from the IOC and Paris 2024, the iPC Governing board will announce its final decision on the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games sport program in early 2019.
The first Paralympic Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 and featured 400 athletes from 23 countries who competed in eight sports- archery, athletics,dartchery, snooker, swimming, table tennis, wheelchair fencing and wheelchair basketball.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
EAGLES-BEARS-THE PICK
I hate to keep writing it, but I remain perfect picking Eagles games so far this season. After practically locking up the NFC East division last Sunday night against Dallas, the Birds stand alone at 9-1. They face a Chicago Bears team that is 3-7 Any faint hopes the Bears had of surprisingly winning the NFC North or even sneaking into the playoffs were shattered by two home losses the last two weeks.
The Bears did upset the Steelers earlier in the year. It will be revenge time for wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, who must have this game circled on his calendar.
The Eagles need to keep winning. This is their last home game before embarking on a three-game road trip, with the first two on the west coast. They won't be back to the Linc until Christmas night against the Oakland Raiders.
Even though the Redskins blowing a 15 point lead with three minutes to go last week against a red-hot Saints team in New Orleans did the Eagles no favors, it may be a good thing in the long run. Knowing both the Saints and Vikings ar e8-2 and right behind the Birds, it may keep Philly motivated to not take these games against losing teams-like the bears- for granted.
Every victory counts, and for the Eagles tor each the Super bowl it is important to get a first round bye and home field advantage in the playoffs. Right now, without New Orleans or Minnesota on their schedule, all the Eagles have to do to assure themselves home field is win-out. go 15-1- no problem, right?
Actually, that's not so crazy of an idea. When the Eagles were 4-1 I wrote on the blog that the Birds may be a team of destiny. Why not the Eagles? if the Cubs could win a World Series, why couldn't the Eagles win a Super Bowl?
After Chicago comes the road trip. But Seattle at home isn't the same as before ( they lost last week at home to Atlanta). The Seahawks defense isn't as dominating as in previous seasons.
Taking on the surprising Rams in Los Angeles is a winnable game. So is the game agains the awful Giants in new York.
Christmas night against Oakland may not mean anything to the Raiders.And if/when the eagles officially wrap-up the NFC East, the final game at home against the Cowboys may be meaningless too, unless Philadelphia decides tor est their starters for the upcoming playoffs.
But let's get back to the Bears game at 1:00 this Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field. Mitch Tribisky looks like promising rookie quarterback, a good starting block for Chicago to build on, but he ain't no Carson Wentz. Expect the Bears to play hard- what do they have to lose? But the eagles are the better team, playing at home, and will eventually wear them down.
Turnovers will again be key, and when people talk about why the Eagles have succeeded so much this year, they forget to mention that the Birds don't turn the ball over much. They don't give opposing teams a short field to score on, they don't throw interceptions or fumble the ball in the red zone to squander scoring chances.
On a cold, windy day expected this Sunday, here is my prediction: The eagles continue to play fun but business-like football, going to an astounding 10-1 record.
Eagles 24 Bears 7
The Bears did upset the Steelers earlier in the year. It will be revenge time for wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, who must have this game circled on his calendar.
The Eagles need to keep winning. This is their last home game before embarking on a three-game road trip, with the first two on the west coast. They won't be back to the Linc until Christmas night against the Oakland Raiders.
Even though the Redskins blowing a 15 point lead with three minutes to go last week against a red-hot Saints team in New Orleans did the Eagles no favors, it may be a good thing in the long run. Knowing both the Saints and Vikings ar e8-2 and right behind the Birds, it may keep Philly motivated to not take these games against losing teams-like the bears- for granted.
Every victory counts, and for the Eagles tor each the Super bowl it is important to get a first round bye and home field advantage in the playoffs. Right now, without New Orleans or Minnesota on their schedule, all the Eagles have to do to assure themselves home field is win-out. go 15-1- no problem, right?
Actually, that's not so crazy of an idea. When the Eagles were 4-1 I wrote on the blog that the Birds may be a team of destiny. Why not the Eagles? if the Cubs could win a World Series, why couldn't the Eagles win a Super Bowl?
After Chicago comes the road trip. But Seattle at home isn't the same as before ( they lost last week at home to Atlanta). The Seahawks defense isn't as dominating as in previous seasons.
Taking on the surprising Rams in Los Angeles is a winnable game. So is the game agains the awful Giants in new York.
Christmas night against Oakland may not mean anything to the Raiders.And if/when the eagles officially wrap-up the NFC East, the final game at home against the Cowboys may be meaningless too, unless Philadelphia decides tor est their starters for the upcoming playoffs.
But let's get back to the Bears game at 1:00 this Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field. Mitch Tribisky looks like promising rookie quarterback, a good starting block for Chicago to build on, but he ain't no Carson Wentz. Expect the Bears to play hard- what do they have to lose? But the eagles are the better team, playing at home, and will eventually wear them down.
Turnovers will again be key, and when people talk about why the Eagles have succeeded so much this year, they forget to mention that the Birds don't turn the ball over much. They don't give opposing teams a short field to score on, they don't throw interceptions or fumble the ball in the red zone to squander scoring chances.
On a cold, windy day expected this Sunday, here is my prediction: The eagles continue to play fun but business-like football, going to an astounding 10-1 record.
Eagles 24 Bears 7
THANKSGIVING MEMORIES
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays of the year. No gift expectations. Family-oriented. Turkey and football. The beginning of the holidays. Parades. The cool, crisp weather.
Here are some Thanksgiving memories...
* The aroma of the turkey simmering overnight.
* High school football Thanksgiving morning. Phoenixville vs Great Valley, then later, vs Spring -Ford.
* Thanksgiving Day parades- It used to be known as the Gimbels parade in Philadelphia. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade always featured the huge floats, plus the first appearance of Santa Claus in the new holiday season.
* Pro football- The traditional games- the early noon game at Detroit, then the later game at Dallas. Now, they've added night game on Thanksgiving. A full day of football after a full day of turkey.
* Family- Maybe you don't like some of the family who come out of the woodwork on Thanksgiving, but still it's a special time when everyone is together. How often do families all sit down and eat together at the same table at the same time?
You think of family members who are no longer around. You celebrate new babies, new married couples. There are no pressures of giving gifts. It's simply enjoying family, catching up, and giving thanks for all you have and share.
* Church- My Mom, although not required, always attended mass early on Thanksgiving morning. Isn't that the purpose? Giving thanks to God for all your blessings.
*Thanksgiving Dinner- It all starts with the turkey. I like the dark meat the most, especially the drumstick. Turkey is great for leftovers too. Nothing like a few pieces of turkey in a sandwich, with a piece of lettuce.
Turkey is good for you too But, even though the leftovers are great, you kind of get tired of turkey after a week or so. By Christmas roast beef looks pretty good.
But the best part of Thanksgiving dinner are the sides. Stuffing is fantastic, as long as it's not too dry or mushy. I can take or leave veggies (green beans seem popular around the holidays). Cranberry sauce is cooling and nice. A salad is optional, but olives are a must. Fruit is always around, especially apples and tangerines and grapes.
What about dessert? other than the traditional pumpkin pie, apple pie makes a great Thanksgiving dessert. Cherry or blueberry pies are great too. Not so much Christmas cookies yet.
*Thanksgiving movies- There aren't many out there, but the most popular has to be the Steve Martin- John Candy classic "Trains, Planes and Automobiles." Check it out if you haven't already. Some TV station should play that movie centered around Thanksgiving all day long, like they do "A Christmas Story."
* Black Friday- not only because of the sales- you can usually get great sales closer to Christmas- but Black Friday is crazy and fun. There's always one must-have item or toy every year, which people line up for early in the morning or even for days.
Most of all, after Thanksgiving Day, it's OK to start playing Christmas music , putting up decorations and getting into the holiday spirit. Parties abound, holiday concerts, TV shows and Christmas movies. It's a special time of the year, and it breaks you out of the doldrums of the routine, everyday regimen. Plus, kids are off school, vacations are planned and there's always shopping. And this year we have the Eagles to watch and celebrate.
So, Thanksgiving is always one of my favorite holidays. It marks the start of more good times ahead. New Tear's signals a fresh start, a new beginning, but it also means the end of the holidays and a winter yet ahead of cold, snow and early darkness. Thanksgiving brings travel, hope and sharing good times with those you love.
Here are some Thanksgiving memories...
* The aroma of the turkey simmering overnight.
* High school football Thanksgiving morning. Phoenixville vs Great Valley, then later, vs Spring -Ford.
* Thanksgiving Day parades- It used to be known as the Gimbels parade in Philadelphia. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade always featured the huge floats, plus the first appearance of Santa Claus in the new holiday season.
* Pro football- The traditional games- the early noon game at Detroit, then the later game at Dallas. Now, they've added night game on Thanksgiving. A full day of football after a full day of turkey.
* Family- Maybe you don't like some of the family who come out of the woodwork on Thanksgiving, but still it's a special time when everyone is together. How often do families all sit down and eat together at the same table at the same time?
You think of family members who are no longer around. You celebrate new babies, new married couples. There are no pressures of giving gifts. It's simply enjoying family, catching up, and giving thanks for all you have and share.
* Church- My Mom, although not required, always attended mass early on Thanksgiving morning. Isn't that the purpose? Giving thanks to God for all your blessings.
*Thanksgiving Dinner- It all starts with the turkey. I like the dark meat the most, especially the drumstick. Turkey is great for leftovers too. Nothing like a few pieces of turkey in a sandwich, with a piece of lettuce.
Turkey is good for you too But, even though the leftovers are great, you kind of get tired of turkey after a week or so. By Christmas roast beef looks pretty good.
But the best part of Thanksgiving dinner are the sides. Stuffing is fantastic, as long as it's not too dry or mushy. I can take or leave veggies (green beans seem popular around the holidays). Cranberry sauce is cooling and nice. A salad is optional, but olives are a must. Fruit is always around, especially apples and tangerines and grapes.
What about dessert? other than the traditional pumpkin pie, apple pie makes a great Thanksgiving dessert. Cherry or blueberry pies are great too. Not so much Christmas cookies yet.
*Thanksgiving movies- There aren't many out there, but the most popular has to be the Steve Martin- John Candy classic "Trains, Planes and Automobiles." Check it out if you haven't already. Some TV station should play that movie centered around Thanksgiving all day long, like they do "A Christmas Story."
* Black Friday- not only because of the sales- you can usually get great sales closer to Christmas- but Black Friday is crazy and fun. There's always one must-have item or toy every year, which people line up for early in the morning or even for days.
Most of all, after Thanksgiving Day, it's OK to start playing Christmas music , putting up decorations and getting into the holiday spirit. Parties abound, holiday concerts, TV shows and Christmas movies. It's a special time of the year, and it breaks you out of the doldrums of the routine, everyday regimen. Plus, kids are off school, vacations are planned and there's always shopping. And this year we have the Eagles to watch and celebrate.
So, Thanksgiving is always one of my favorite holidays. It marks the start of more good times ahead. New Tear's signals a fresh start, a new beginning, but it also means the end of the holidays and a winter yet ahead of cold, snow and early darkness. Thanksgiving brings travel, hope and sharing good times with those you love.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, EAGLES
* The Flyers lose again- their 5th game in a row- and have lost the last 6 out of 7 home games.
The Orange and Black will never win a Stanley Cup until they:
1- Get another coach. Dave Hakstol is done. He is dull and this team, which has loads of young talent, has taken on the persona of it's boring coach.
2- Get a true No. 1 goalie- Signing Brian Elliot was not a really big upgrade from Steve Mason. Let's face it- Michael Nurwirth isn't a real No. 1 either. Both are holding down the spot until one of the Flyers' young goalies in the minors is promoted.
The defense is young and inexperienced. The team is faster yet still has trouble scoring at times.
Too bad Ed Snider isn't around. He wouldn't put up with this lackluster play. The Flyers are lucky that the Eagles and Sixers are playing well, Otherwise the Flyers would be the top story in the city- and not in a good way.
GM Ron Hextall is so damn deliberate with his players, would he pull the trigger,, fire Hakstol, and bring in a more experienced coach?
The Flyers play the Islanders tonight in New York, then again in their traditional Black Friday game Friday afternoon. Hopefully the Flyers turn it around sooner than later.
*************************************************************************
Speaking of our hockey team, the Flyers will play their inter-state rivals, the Pittsburgh Penguins at Lincoln Financial Field in a Winter Classic game on February 2019. It will be cool to see 60,000 fans cram a jam-packed Linc to watch hockey- especially if it's snowing.
***********************************************************************
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and we should all give thanks to the Lord for all of our blessings, including the Eagles. They are a joy to so many people- real football fans and casual fans. People scheduled their lives around the games with parties. The holidays will be even more joyful knowing the beloved Birds will be heading to the playoffs soon.
I also think of the sick and bend-ridden,people who maybe aren't having the best Thanksgiving ever. The eagles give them hope and something to look forward to and to keep going for.
I worked in nursing homes for 30 years and I know how important the Eagles are for a lot of those residents who may not much to smile about.
So it's cool the Eagles are 9-1. They are bringing everyone together- football fan or not- just when we need it most.
Questions: Would the Eagles go to the White House to meet President Trump if they win the Super Bowl? Would the NFL allow Eagles fans gather at the Linc to watch the Super Bowl together? Who would we rather play in the Super Bowl- Pittsburgh ( imagine the inter-state hype- Wentz vs Rotehburger), New England ( revenge against Belicheck and Brady). or Kansas City ( Andy Reid vs Doug Pederson- the coach and the pupil).
*****************************************************************************
So, here are my predictions for the Thanksgiving football games...
Vikings at Lions-
Traditional early football in Detroit. The Lions need a win to move to within a game of Minnesota in NFC North. The Viking defense is playing great and can just about wrap-up the division and a playoff spot with a win
Lions 24 Vikings 21
Chargers at Cowboys-
Dallas is coming off an embarrassing loss to the Eagles on Sunday night. Plus they are still banged-up. The Chargers are better, and always dangerous with Philip Rivers at quarterback, LA needs a win to stay in reach of a wild card berth, while Dallas is in the same boat. Something's gotta give.I think it will be a shoot-out.
Cowboys 34 Chargers 27
Giants at Redskins-
More or less a meaningless division game on Thanksgiving night. Washington my have an outside shot at a wild card; the Giants have no reason to play hard.
Redskins 24 Giants 7
The Orange and Black will never win a Stanley Cup until they:
1- Get another coach. Dave Hakstol is done. He is dull and this team, which has loads of young talent, has taken on the persona of it's boring coach.
2- Get a true No. 1 goalie- Signing Brian Elliot was not a really big upgrade from Steve Mason. Let's face it- Michael Nurwirth isn't a real No. 1 either. Both are holding down the spot until one of the Flyers' young goalies in the minors is promoted.
The defense is young and inexperienced. The team is faster yet still has trouble scoring at times.
Too bad Ed Snider isn't around. He wouldn't put up with this lackluster play. The Flyers are lucky that the Eagles and Sixers are playing well, Otherwise the Flyers would be the top story in the city- and not in a good way.
GM Ron Hextall is so damn deliberate with his players, would he pull the trigger,, fire Hakstol, and bring in a more experienced coach?
The Flyers play the Islanders tonight in New York, then again in their traditional Black Friday game Friday afternoon. Hopefully the Flyers turn it around sooner than later.
*************************************************************************
Speaking of our hockey team, the Flyers will play their inter-state rivals, the Pittsburgh Penguins at Lincoln Financial Field in a Winter Classic game on February 2019. It will be cool to see 60,000 fans cram a jam-packed Linc to watch hockey- especially if it's snowing.
***********************************************************************
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and we should all give thanks to the Lord for all of our blessings, including the Eagles. They are a joy to so many people- real football fans and casual fans. People scheduled their lives around the games with parties. The holidays will be even more joyful knowing the beloved Birds will be heading to the playoffs soon.
I also think of the sick and bend-ridden,people who maybe aren't having the best Thanksgiving ever. The eagles give them hope and something to look forward to and to keep going for.
I worked in nursing homes for 30 years and I know how important the Eagles are for a lot of those residents who may not much to smile about.
So it's cool the Eagles are 9-1. They are bringing everyone together- football fan or not- just when we need it most.
Questions: Would the Eagles go to the White House to meet President Trump if they win the Super Bowl? Would the NFL allow Eagles fans gather at the Linc to watch the Super Bowl together? Who would we rather play in the Super Bowl- Pittsburgh ( imagine the inter-state hype- Wentz vs Rotehburger), New England ( revenge against Belicheck and Brady). or Kansas City ( Andy Reid vs Doug Pederson- the coach and the pupil).
*****************************************************************************
So, here are my predictions for the Thanksgiving football games...
Vikings at Lions-
Traditional early football in Detroit. The Lions need a win to move to within a game of Minnesota in NFC North. The Viking defense is playing great and can just about wrap-up the division and a playoff spot with a win
Lions 24 Vikings 21
Chargers at Cowboys-
Dallas is coming off an embarrassing loss to the Eagles on Sunday night. Plus they are still banged-up. The Chargers are better, and always dangerous with Philip Rivers at quarterback, LA needs a win to stay in reach of a wild card berth, while Dallas is in the same boat. Something's gotta give.I think it will be a shoot-out.
Cowboys 34 Chargers 27
Giants at Redskins-
More or less a meaningless division game on Thanksgiving night. Washington my have an outside shot at a wild card; the Giants have no reason to play hard.
Redskins 24 Giants 7
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
IN MY LIFE- DAVID CASSIDY, CHARLIE ROSE CARSON WENYZ
Some current topics to ponder..
* Sad news that pop star/ex-teen idol David Cassidy is near death in a Florida hospital. He is suffering from liver and kidney failure, and TMZ now reports he is on a breathing tube, with close family at his bedside.
I'ma guy and straight, yet I liked David Cassidy. He may have thought of himself as "too cool" on The Partridge Family, but he was cool to teenage guys who wished they had his looks, especially his winning smile. In fact, when I got my braces, I hoped in the end to look like David Cassidy ( it didn't happen)
Even though most of The Partridge Family songs were pretty lame, the early ones weren't bad, and they used good songwriters and studio musicians to play on the records., The songs were mostly lame because they were targeting teenage girls to buy the records, and not because of the quality of the songs, but because Cassidy sang on them.
The Partridge Family was more than just a TV show that came on every Friday night after The Brady Bunch. It was a money-making machine, led by David Cassidy.
He was everywhere for a while- lunchboxes, teen magazines, the cover of TV Guide, you name it.
I thought he had a great, powerful voice, even though on the first two Partridge albums the producers played with his voice a little to make him sound younger.He really couldn't do the kind of music he wanted to do-rock and blues. In fact, Elton John once said that David Cassidy was on\e of the best guitar players he ever heard.
My favorite Partridge songs -"Only A Moment Ago", "I'll Leave Myself A Little Time" tended to be album cuts.Cassidy had a solo career as well, with solo albums that didn't sell as much. After his TV show was cancelled, he stayed in music. And he had a best-selling album in Britain, where he was really big, and two underrated albums here in the states in the early 90's ("David Cassidy" and "Didn't You Used To Be...?")
He's had issues over the years with drugs and especially alcohol. Then he announced earlier in the year he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.
I'm sure David had a great life- money, girls, lots of fun, travel, the perks of being a young, famous guy.But I'm also sure, like most celebrities too, he had his demons and there had to be tough times too.
I saw him live at Hershey Park of all places in the 90s. He had regressed to playing concerts at amusement parks, trying to sing over the sound of a nearby roller coaster.
But he made a lot of people happy, made many lonely people smile. So, no matter what you may think of David Cassidy the person or the singer or musician, you have to give him credit for being a likable guy who will always be remembered for once having a fan club bigger than Elvis' and the Beatles combined.
He was a sign of more innocent times, part of my youth, and always seemed to be there. Now, he is yet another celebrity I grew up with who may be gone too soon. He is only 67.
Get better, David.
*******************************************************************
I see where CBS fired Charlie Rose, the long-time correspondent/news guy/host because of recent sexual harassment allegations.
Ever since Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein was disgraced for similar allegations, more and more politicians and show biz celebrities are begin accused of the same thing. Some incidents allegedly happened 40 or more years ago. Strange they weren't reported then, but they are now, and guys are needing to face the consequences of abusing their power.
Most of these guys are pretty ugly, and maybe that's why they needed to resort to power and cohesion to get beautiful women. Who knows why a guy why may be old and overweight thinks he is God's gift to women?
Bill Cosby was one of the first most recent famous people put under scrutiny for sexual charges. Charlie Rose, Kevin Spacey, Bill Cosby..nice guys..who would ever think it/ But that's the point.They got away with it for so long because no one would ever think a nice guy like that would ever do something so stupid and disgusting.
I'm sure there will be more names to come. Seems like everyday a new name comes up, either in politics or the entertainment world. Who's next, I wonder?
********************************************************************
I was at a sporting goods store the other day- and there is Eagles stuff everywhere. Jerseys, shirts, mugs, key chains, you name it. Anything you can slap an eagle logo on. And can you imagine how many Carson Wentz jerseys will sell this Christmas?
With Thanksgiving this week, and Black Friday approaching, the Birds stand t 9-1, there is Super Bowl talk everywhere and it's the Christmas season. Owner Jeffery Lurie must be doing cart-wheels in his NovaCare office.
Even if one doesn't like football, if the Eagles get into the playoffs and especially the Super Bowl, everyone will suddenly jump on the bandwagon. Eagles scarves, ski caps, sweaters and jackets will fly off the shelves this Christmas, knowing the Super Bowl isn't until February 4th.
I have all my Eagles gear, even from the losing years. The hype leading up to the games will be exciting. A parade down Broad Street will be unforgettable. People can actually die in peace, knowing they stuck around long enough to see the Eagles become world champions for the first time since 1960.
The holidays will be even more fun this season. The eagles are a common link in the community- race, religion, things like that don't matter.Having one of our sports teams do this good is rare, and it makes us all feel good about life, and maybe makes a tough day a little easier to sake, with so much to look forward to in the not-too-distant future.
* Sad news that pop star/ex-teen idol David Cassidy is near death in a Florida hospital. He is suffering from liver and kidney failure, and TMZ now reports he is on a breathing tube, with close family at his bedside.
I'ma guy and straight, yet I liked David Cassidy. He may have thought of himself as "too cool" on The Partridge Family, but he was cool to teenage guys who wished they had his looks, especially his winning smile. In fact, when I got my braces, I hoped in the end to look like David Cassidy ( it didn't happen)
Even though most of The Partridge Family songs were pretty lame, the early ones weren't bad, and they used good songwriters and studio musicians to play on the records., The songs were mostly lame because they were targeting teenage girls to buy the records, and not because of the quality of the songs, but because Cassidy sang on them.
The Partridge Family was more than just a TV show that came on every Friday night after The Brady Bunch. It was a money-making machine, led by David Cassidy.
He was everywhere for a while- lunchboxes, teen magazines, the cover of TV Guide, you name it.
I thought he had a great, powerful voice, even though on the first two Partridge albums the producers played with his voice a little to make him sound younger.He really couldn't do the kind of music he wanted to do-rock and blues. In fact, Elton John once said that David Cassidy was on\e of the best guitar players he ever heard.
My favorite Partridge songs -"Only A Moment Ago", "I'll Leave Myself A Little Time" tended to be album cuts.Cassidy had a solo career as well, with solo albums that didn't sell as much. After his TV show was cancelled, he stayed in music. And he had a best-selling album in Britain, where he was really big, and two underrated albums here in the states in the early 90's ("David Cassidy" and "Didn't You Used To Be...?")
He's had issues over the years with drugs and especially alcohol. Then he announced earlier in the year he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.
I'm sure David had a great life- money, girls, lots of fun, travel, the perks of being a young, famous guy.But I'm also sure, like most celebrities too, he had his demons and there had to be tough times too.
I saw him live at Hershey Park of all places in the 90s. He had regressed to playing concerts at amusement parks, trying to sing over the sound of a nearby roller coaster.
But he made a lot of people happy, made many lonely people smile. So, no matter what you may think of David Cassidy the person or the singer or musician, you have to give him credit for being a likable guy who will always be remembered for once having a fan club bigger than Elvis' and the Beatles combined.
He was a sign of more innocent times, part of my youth, and always seemed to be there. Now, he is yet another celebrity I grew up with who may be gone too soon. He is only 67.
Get better, David.
*******************************************************************
I see where CBS fired Charlie Rose, the long-time correspondent/news guy/host because of recent sexual harassment allegations.
Ever since Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein was disgraced for similar allegations, more and more politicians and show biz celebrities are begin accused of the same thing. Some incidents allegedly happened 40 or more years ago. Strange they weren't reported then, but they are now, and guys are needing to face the consequences of abusing their power.
Most of these guys are pretty ugly, and maybe that's why they needed to resort to power and cohesion to get beautiful women. Who knows why a guy why may be old and overweight thinks he is God's gift to women?
Bill Cosby was one of the first most recent famous people put under scrutiny for sexual charges. Charlie Rose, Kevin Spacey, Bill Cosby..nice guys..who would ever think it/ But that's the point.They got away with it for so long because no one would ever think a nice guy like that would ever do something so stupid and disgusting.
I'm sure there will be more names to come. Seems like everyday a new name comes up, either in politics or the entertainment world. Who's next, I wonder?
********************************************************************
I was at a sporting goods store the other day- and there is Eagles stuff everywhere. Jerseys, shirts, mugs, key chains, you name it. Anything you can slap an eagle logo on. And can you imagine how many Carson Wentz jerseys will sell this Christmas?
With Thanksgiving this week, and Black Friday approaching, the Birds stand t 9-1, there is Super Bowl talk everywhere and it's the Christmas season. Owner Jeffery Lurie must be doing cart-wheels in his NovaCare office.
Even if one doesn't like football, if the Eagles get into the playoffs and especially the Super Bowl, everyone will suddenly jump on the bandwagon. Eagles scarves, ski caps, sweaters and jackets will fly off the shelves this Christmas, knowing the Super Bowl isn't until February 4th.
I have all my Eagles gear, even from the losing years. The hype leading up to the games will be exciting. A parade down Broad Street will be unforgettable. People can actually die in peace, knowing they stuck around long enough to see the Eagles become world champions for the first time since 1960.
The holidays will be even more fun this season. The eagles are a common link in the community- race, religion, things like that don't matter.Having one of our sports teams do this good is rare, and it makes us all feel good about life, and maybe makes a tough day a little easier to sake, with so much to look forward to in the not-too-distant future.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, FLYERS, EAGLES
* The Sixers rebounded from their devastating loss Saturday night to Golden State with a victory last night against Utah at the Center.
Joel Embiid played, sore knee and all, and Ben Simmons continued his strong play with 27 points and 10 rebounds. 4 moire games on this home stand.Good to see blowing a 24-point lead to the champion Warrios didn't carry over to the Jazz game.
* Meanwhile, the Flyers have another home game vs a western conference team, this time the Vancouver Canucks visit Philly. The Flyers need to start stringing victories, especially at home. Later this week the Orange and Black play a home-and-home series with division rival New York Islanders.
* What a disgrace! Chris Christie against in Jerry Jones' box at Sunday Night 's Eagles-Cowboys game. Christie looked like some kind of lapdog for Jones, lurking in the shadowy back of the Dallas owners' private booth.
What a loser. Soon he will be out as Governor of New Jersey. He's been campaigning to get a job on the New York sports talk radio station. He allowed his assistants to go to jail for him regarding the BridgeGate scandal. He slammed all Phillies fans for no reason. He continues to disgrace himself wherever he goes with obnoxiousness.
OK, he does let some rude fans get under his skin when they talk about his weight. Unless Trump gives him a job in his administration, Christie was go back to practicing law , trying to keep his name in the news.
But for him to show up in the Cowboys' box Sunday night, all losers, by the way, was just plain stupid. I guess he doesn't care anymore since he doesn't need anyone's vote from now on.
Joel Embiid played, sore knee and all, and Ben Simmons continued his strong play with 27 points and 10 rebounds. 4 moire games on this home stand.Good to see blowing a 24-point lead to the champion Warrios didn't carry over to the Jazz game.
* Meanwhile, the Flyers have another home game vs a western conference team, this time the Vancouver Canucks visit Philly. The Flyers need to start stringing victories, especially at home. Later this week the Orange and Black play a home-and-home series with division rival New York Islanders.
* What a disgrace! Chris Christie against in Jerry Jones' box at Sunday Night 's Eagles-Cowboys game. Christie looked like some kind of lapdog for Jones, lurking in the shadowy back of the Dallas owners' private booth.
What a loser. Soon he will be out as Governor of New Jersey. He's been campaigning to get a job on the New York sports talk radio station. He allowed his assistants to go to jail for him regarding the BridgeGate scandal. He slammed all Phillies fans for no reason. He continues to disgrace himself wherever he goes with obnoxiousness.
OK, he does let some rude fans get under his skin when they talk about his weight. Unless Trump gives him a job in his administration, Christie was go back to practicing law , trying to keep his name in the news.
But for him to show up in the Cowboys' box Sunday night, all losers, by the way, was just plain stupid. I guess he doesn't care anymore since he doesn't need anyone's vote from now on.
NFL WRAP-UP WEEK 11
Week 11 wrap-up of the NFL season...
Steelers over Titans-
Pittsburgh keeps rolling. They will easily win the AFC North. Now it's a matter of securing a bye in the playoffs and, most importantly, home field advantage over new England. They ply in Pittsburgh soon. At 8-2 the Steelers are rolling (They were my pick to make the Super Bowl in the AFC). Tennessee dropped to a game behind surprising Jacksonville in AFC South, but I still like Tennessee's chances to either win the division or squeeze into the playoffs as a wild card.
Lions over Bears-
Detroit hangs in there in NFC North, two games behind Minnesota. They play a must-win game on their traditional Thanksgiving Day game vs the Vikings. The Bears come to Philly to take on the Eagles. for the 3-7 Bears, it's another rebuilding year.
Ravens over Packers-
Baltimore invaded Lambeau Field and beat the Pack, who aren't the same without the injured Aaron Rodgers. Even if Rodgers comes back for the finally two games of the season, green Bay will be out of the division race, and probably too late for the playoffs. The ravens are a disappointing 5-5 but very much in contention for a wild card berth. Baltimore has two home games upcoming with struggling Houston and Detroit. Green Bay continues on a rough road by playing at Pittsburgh.
Jaguars over Browns-
Jacksonville leads their division at 7-3. They are playing well, but also benefiting from an easy schedule.Beating the woeful 0-10 Browns is no big deal. The Jags may get into the playoffs, but will they go far in the playoffs? Jacksonville goes out west to play Arizona this weekend while clueless Cleveland plays interstate rival Cincinnati on the road. In fact, 4 out of the last 6 games for the browns is on the road. 0-16 is realistic.
Cardinals over Texans-
Arizona stays in a wild card chase with a weak 4-6 record. They won't make it, as the Cards are too inconsistent. Houston is cashing in their chips for the year, losing star QB Desean Watson. The Cardinals start a big three game home stand which will make-or-break their playoff chances. They begin with a good Jaguar team this week. Houston goes to Baltimore then Tennessee, both playoff contenders.
Bengals over Broncos-
Denver, after a 3-1 start, continues to struggle. They won't win without a quarterback, even in the weak AFC West. Cincinnati stays alive, but at 4-6, they are in the playoff hunt. They are too inconsistent, with a weak coach to get in, but they have a shot. The Bengals' destiny is in their own hands, with three home games in a row against Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Chicago.Denver goes to Oakland this week, the loser buried for the season.
Patriots over Raiders-
The Pats are doing what they always do around this time of the year- separating themselves from the pretenders in AFC East. Even at 8-1, New England may not be the team they once were, but don't be surprised if they earn a playoff bye and home field in the playoffs yet again. Oakland is just trying to survive in AFC West, fortunate to only be two games behind front-runner Kansas City. New England has a home game against Miami this weekend before heading back on the road fro three. The Raiders stay home with Denver and then an equally-bad Giants team. At 6-6 they would have as hot at the playoffs, making the Christmas night contest with the Eagles in Philadelphia a bug game,
Vikings over Rams-
This was a big NFC game in Minnesota. The Vikes go to 8-2 and take control of their division. The Rams are still in 1st place since Seattle lost last night I still don't believe in LA but that game with the Birds in 3 weeks can be huge .Minnesota's season boils down to the three roads games in a row starting on Thanksgiving at the Lions. Los Angeles plays the sizzling-hot Saints and drew Brews at home this week.
Saints over Redskins-
New Orleans overcame a late 15 point deficit to beat Washington in overtime, winning their 8th game in a row. They seem like a team of destiny, along with our Eagles. Facing the Rams in LA this week will be a challenge. Meanwhile,, the "Skins lost a must-win game they had control of, and have to be kicking themselves. They play at home Thanksgiving night with the Giants, but will Washington do enough to sneak into the playoffs? I doubt it.
Giants over Chiefs-
Surprise! New York won only their second game of the entire season, upsetting Kansas City at the Meadowlands. They are still buried at 2-8. KC is struggling atfer a sensational start. Coach Andy Reid has gone too conservative and it's cost them. Luckily, in a weak AFC West, they remain two games ahead of the pack. The Giants get torched in Washington on Thanksgiving night while the Chiefs need to get back in gear with a home game against Buffalo. With Pittsburgh and New England playing so well, KC will lose it's home field advantage at Arrowhead Stadium unless they come on strong.
Buccaneers over Dolphins-
Tampa Bay, the trendy pick before the season started, can't make the playoffs, especially with QB Winston out. Losing the interstate Florida rivalry, the Dolphins continue to slide.Miami goes to New England for a key AFC East game, while Tampa travels to Atlanta.
Chargers over Bills-
The Chargers are playing better, and are actually in the mix for a wild card berth. With any luck they can also challenge Kansas City for the AFC West crown, but it's unlikely. Buffalo, after a surprising start, are turning back into Buffalo. New coach Sean McDermott's curious decision to change quarterbacks last week was a head-scratcher. Buffalo won't be going anywhere soon until they resolve their shaky QB situation. LA plays in Dallas on Turkey Day, and with the Cowboys in chaos, I give the chargers a shot. Buffalo goes to Kansas City, who needs a victory badly.
Eagles over Cowboys-
We talked about the Birds total domination of Dallas. It leaves the Eagles at 9-1, playing the 3-7 bears at the Linc this Sunday. Dallas plays their traditional Thanksgiving Day game, this time against Philip Rivers and the Chargers.
Falcons over Seahawks-
Seattle isn't so invincible at home anymore, good news for the eagles in a few weeks. Defensively, they are no where near as good, as they battle the Rams for the lead in NFC West. Atlanta has righted their season the last few weeks, but still find themselves in a dogfight with Carolina and New Orleans for their division. Right now, the Falcons would sneak into the playoffs as a wild card team. Now the Falcons have three consecutive home games, including key games with Minnesota and the Saints. Seattle goes to San Francisco this week.
Indianapolis, San Francisco, Carolina and the Jets had byes.
Steelers over Titans-
Pittsburgh keeps rolling. They will easily win the AFC North. Now it's a matter of securing a bye in the playoffs and, most importantly, home field advantage over new England. They ply in Pittsburgh soon. At 8-2 the Steelers are rolling (They were my pick to make the Super Bowl in the AFC). Tennessee dropped to a game behind surprising Jacksonville in AFC South, but I still like Tennessee's chances to either win the division or squeeze into the playoffs as a wild card.
Lions over Bears-
Detroit hangs in there in NFC North, two games behind Minnesota. They play a must-win game on their traditional Thanksgiving Day game vs the Vikings. The Bears come to Philly to take on the Eagles. for the 3-7 Bears, it's another rebuilding year.
Ravens over Packers-
Baltimore invaded Lambeau Field and beat the Pack, who aren't the same without the injured Aaron Rodgers. Even if Rodgers comes back for the finally two games of the season, green Bay will be out of the division race, and probably too late for the playoffs. The ravens are a disappointing 5-5 but very much in contention for a wild card berth. Baltimore has two home games upcoming with struggling Houston and Detroit. Green Bay continues on a rough road by playing at Pittsburgh.
Jaguars over Browns-
Jacksonville leads their division at 7-3. They are playing well, but also benefiting from an easy schedule.Beating the woeful 0-10 Browns is no big deal. The Jags may get into the playoffs, but will they go far in the playoffs? Jacksonville goes out west to play Arizona this weekend while clueless Cleveland plays interstate rival Cincinnati on the road. In fact, 4 out of the last 6 games for the browns is on the road. 0-16 is realistic.
Cardinals over Texans-
Arizona stays in a wild card chase with a weak 4-6 record. They won't make it, as the Cards are too inconsistent. Houston is cashing in their chips for the year, losing star QB Desean Watson. The Cardinals start a big three game home stand which will make-or-break their playoff chances. They begin with a good Jaguar team this week. Houston goes to Baltimore then Tennessee, both playoff contenders.
Bengals over Broncos-
Denver, after a 3-1 start, continues to struggle. They won't win without a quarterback, even in the weak AFC West. Cincinnati stays alive, but at 4-6, they are in the playoff hunt. They are too inconsistent, with a weak coach to get in, but they have a shot. The Bengals' destiny is in their own hands, with three home games in a row against Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Chicago.Denver goes to Oakland this week, the loser buried for the season.
Patriots over Raiders-
The Pats are doing what they always do around this time of the year- separating themselves from the pretenders in AFC East. Even at 8-1, New England may not be the team they once were, but don't be surprised if they earn a playoff bye and home field in the playoffs yet again. Oakland is just trying to survive in AFC West, fortunate to only be two games behind front-runner Kansas City. New England has a home game against Miami this weekend before heading back on the road fro three. The Raiders stay home with Denver and then an equally-bad Giants team. At 6-6 they would have as hot at the playoffs, making the Christmas night contest with the Eagles in Philadelphia a bug game,
Vikings over Rams-
This was a big NFC game in Minnesota. The Vikes go to 8-2 and take control of their division. The Rams are still in 1st place since Seattle lost last night I still don't believe in LA but that game with the Birds in 3 weeks can be huge .Minnesota's season boils down to the three roads games in a row starting on Thanksgiving at the Lions. Los Angeles plays the sizzling-hot Saints and drew Brews at home this week.
Saints over Redskins-
New Orleans overcame a late 15 point deficit to beat Washington in overtime, winning their 8th game in a row. They seem like a team of destiny, along with our Eagles. Facing the Rams in LA this week will be a challenge. Meanwhile,, the "Skins lost a must-win game they had control of, and have to be kicking themselves. They play at home Thanksgiving night with the Giants, but will Washington do enough to sneak into the playoffs? I doubt it.
Giants over Chiefs-
Surprise! New York won only their second game of the entire season, upsetting Kansas City at the Meadowlands. They are still buried at 2-8. KC is struggling atfer a sensational start. Coach Andy Reid has gone too conservative and it's cost them. Luckily, in a weak AFC West, they remain two games ahead of the pack. The Giants get torched in Washington on Thanksgiving night while the Chiefs need to get back in gear with a home game against Buffalo. With Pittsburgh and New England playing so well, KC will lose it's home field advantage at Arrowhead Stadium unless they come on strong.
Buccaneers over Dolphins-
Tampa Bay, the trendy pick before the season started, can't make the playoffs, especially with QB Winston out. Losing the interstate Florida rivalry, the Dolphins continue to slide.Miami goes to New England for a key AFC East game, while Tampa travels to Atlanta.
Chargers over Bills-
The Chargers are playing better, and are actually in the mix for a wild card berth. With any luck they can also challenge Kansas City for the AFC West crown, but it's unlikely. Buffalo, after a surprising start, are turning back into Buffalo. New coach Sean McDermott's curious decision to change quarterbacks last week was a head-scratcher. Buffalo won't be going anywhere soon until they resolve their shaky QB situation. LA plays in Dallas on Turkey Day, and with the Cowboys in chaos, I give the chargers a shot. Buffalo goes to Kansas City, who needs a victory badly.
Eagles over Cowboys-
We talked about the Birds total domination of Dallas. It leaves the Eagles at 9-1, playing the 3-7 bears at the Linc this Sunday. Dallas plays their traditional Thanksgiving Day game, this time against Philip Rivers and the Chargers.
Falcons over Seahawks-
Seattle isn't so invincible at home anymore, good news for the eagles in a few weeks. Defensively, they are no where near as good, as they battle the Rams for the lead in NFC West. Atlanta has righted their season the last few weeks, but still find themselves in a dogfight with Carolina and New Orleans for their division. Right now, the Falcons would sneak into the playoffs as a wild card team. Now the Falcons have three consecutive home games, including key games with Minnesota and the Saints. Seattle goes to San Francisco this week.
Indianapolis, San Francisco, Carolina and the Jets had byes.
Monday, November 20, 2017
IN THE NEWS- SOCIAL MOBILE GAMING BOOSTS REHABILITATION FOR PATIENTS WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
This new article is from Disability World...
*Quote: "...researchers believe this form of rehabilitation through gaming may be beneficial to patients recovering from other illnesses such as musculoskelletal injuries, arthritis, and cerebral palsy."
The researchers from Imperial have designed a video game called Balloon Buddies, which is a tool that enables those recovering from conditions such as a stroke to engage and play together with family volunteers such as therapists and family members as a from of rehabilitation.
Balloon Buddies is designed to level the playing field by allowing healthy participants to support the less abled player. The researchers have shown that this type of collaboration makes it more rewarding for the less-abled partner, more challenging for the better partner, and overall more fun for both, as they have to continuously work together to score points.
The team have trialled balloon Buddies by getting patients to play it on their own in single player mode and then partnered with healthy volunteers during duel player gameplay. They found that the performance of the patient was boosted when they played with a healthy volunteer, compared to if they were playing the game on their own. In addition, they found that the poorer a patient's single player performance was, the greater the improvement seen when they played with another during dual-player mode.
These findings published recently in the Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation (JNER), suggest that by increasing engagement with healthy volunteers, compared to playing alone,patients may be more likely to increase the effort they put into training, which could ultimately lead to greater gains in physical performance.
While the pilot study was limited to 16 patients and 32 healthy participants playing in 16 pairs, the researchers believe this form of rehabilitation through gaming may be beneficial to patients recovering from other illnesses such as musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and cerebral palsy. The researchers are aiming to further develop the game alongside new multiplayer concepts and show that it can be used in different settings including patients training with their therapist or with other patients, in community centers or even remotely at home.
Dr. Michael Mace, lead author from the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London, said:" Video games are a great way of providing repetitive exercise to help patients recover from debilitating illnesses. However, most games are designed for users to play on their own, which can actually discourage and isolate many patients. We developed the Balloon Buddy game to enable patients to train with their friends, family of caregivers in a collaborative and playful manner. The technology is still being developed, but we have shown that playing jointly with another individual may lead to increased engagement and better outcomes for patients."
Balloon Buddies uses animation, sounds, and vibration-feedback, similar to conventional video games. It requires users to balance a ball on a beam, which is lifted at each of its ends by balloons controlled by the players. The main aim of the game is for the players to vary the height of the beam so that the ball collides with moving targets in order to collect points. Players are also required to work together to keep the beam horizontal so that the ball doesn't roll off the platform. It is played with a wireless handgrip called GripAble, enabling people with arm weakness to control video games on any standard tablet device.
In the study, the researchers tested the game on 16 patients who had arm weakness following a stroke with a healthy volunteer over three months at Charing Cross Hospital, which is part of Imperial College Heathcare NHS Trust, in 2016. Previously, the game was also tested on 16 healthy pairs with different baseline abilities.
The team will now carry out a larger study to examine whether the game leads to more efficient learning and to examine if patients are more motivated to train for longer periods. They will also explore social implications of interaction such as the effect of patients playing with a relative versus a stranger.
*Quote: "...researchers believe this form of rehabilitation through gaming may be beneficial to patients recovering from other illnesses such as musculoskelletal injuries, arthritis, and cerebral palsy."
The researchers from Imperial have designed a video game called Balloon Buddies, which is a tool that enables those recovering from conditions such as a stroke to engage and play together with family volunteers such as therapists and family members as a from of rehabilitation.
Balloon Buddies is designed to level the playing field by allowing healthy participants to support the less abled player. The researchers have shown that this type of collaboration makes it more rewarding for the less-abled partner, more challenging for the better partner, and overall more fun for both, as they have to continuously work together to score points.
The team have trialled balloon Buddies by getting patients to play it on their own in single player mode and then partnered with healthy volunteers during duel player gameplay. They found that the performance of the patient was boosted when they played with a healthy volunteer, compared to if they were playing the game on their own. In addition, they found that the poorer a patient's single player performance was, the greater the improvement seen when they played with another during dual-player mode.
These findings published recently in the Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation (JNER), suggest that by increasing engagement with healthy volunteers, compared to playing alone,patients may be more likely to increase the effort they put into training, which could ultimately lead to greater gains in physical performance.
While the pilot study was limited to 16 patients and 32 healthy participants playing in 16 pairs, the researchers believe this form of rehabilitation through gaming may be beneficial to patients recovering from other illnesses such as musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and cerebral palsy. The researchers are aiming to further develop the game alongside new multiplayer concepts and show that it can be used in different settings including patients training with their therapist or with other patients, in community centers or even remotely at home.
Dr. Michael Mace, lead author from the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London, said:" Video games are a great way of providing repetitive exercise to help patients recover from debilitating illnesses. However, most games are designed for users to play on their own, which can actually discourage and isolate many patients. We developed the Balloon Buddy game to enable patients to train with their friends, family of caregivers in a collaborative and playful manner. The technology is still being developed, but we have shown that playing jointly with another individual may lead to increased engagement and better outcomes for patients."
Balloon Buddies uses animation, sounds, and vibration-feedback, similar to conventional video games. It requires users to balance a ball on a beam, which is lifted at each of its ends by balloons controlled by the players. The main aim of the game is for the players to vary the height of the beam so that the ball collides with moving targets in order to collect points. Players are also required to work together to keep the beam horizontal so that the ball doesn't roll off the platform. It is played with a wireless handgrip called GripAble, enabling people with arm weakness to control video games on any standard tablet device.
In the study, the researchers tested the game on 16 patients who had arm weakness following a stroke with a healthy volunteer over three months at Charing Cross Hospital, which is part of Imperial College Heathcare NHS Trust, in 2016. Previously, the game was also tested on 16 healthy pairs with different baseline abilities.
The team will now carry out a larger study to examine whether the game leads to more efficient learning and to examine if patients are more motivated to train for longer periods. They will also explore social implications of interaction such as the effect of patients playing with a relative versus a stranger.
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