Disability Scoop offers the following..
Target is expanding its clothing options for people with disabilities beyond children with a new collection of jeans and tops in adult sizes.
The retailer said it will roll out sensory-friendly and adaptive clothing for women as part of a new line called Universal Thread that's meant to fit individuals of all shapes and sizes.
"Universal Thread is all about making great style available to everyone, while offering unprecedented value and never compromising on quality," said Mark Tritton, target's executive vice president and chief merchandising officer.
Sensory-friendly options within Universal Thread will be free of tags, have flat seams and feature extra-soft material. Adaptive denim in the collection will offer a high-rise back and longer inseams, wider leg openings to make dressing easier, no back pockets and faux front pockets. Items will be priced from $5 to $39.99.
The new products for woman with disabilities come just months after Target unveiled a collection of sensory-friendly and adaptive clothing for children as part of its Cat & Jack brand. Target declined to say if they will make sensory-friendly and adaptive options available for men.
While Universal Thread will be featured in stores, Target said the sensory-friendly and adaptive items will only be available on the retailer's website when the collection goes on sale Feb. 4.
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES VS PATRIOTS-SUPER BOWL PREDICTION
Well, I went an incredible 18-0 picking Eagle games this season. Yes, I predicted all three losses- Kansas City, Seattle and Dallas- as well as all 18 wins.
One more game. The ultimate prize. Will the Eagles win their first-ever Super Bowl title this Sunday night against the evil empire, the New England Patriots?
There are compelling reasons to pick each team. New England has the experience and the mystic. To be the champs you gotta beat the champs, and defeating the Patriots and derailing their dynasty would be sweet revenge for the Birds, who lost to Brady and Belichek in 2005 in the Super Bowl.
New England has Brady and Belichek, maybe the greatest quarterback and coach of all time. Plus the Pats know how to win big games. Don't give the ball to Brady with two minutes remaining and the Patriots needing a score to win.
The Eagles had a terrific season, also going 13-3, like New England. They were underdogs after Carson Wentz tore up his knee in early December against the Rams. Yet the Birds haven't lost a meaningful game since November, when they lost at Seattle on Sunday Night Football.
The Birds need to keep playing as they are, with aggressiveness and play smart football- no turnovers and limit the stupid penalties. They need to control the ball, which keeps the ball out of Brady's hands. They can be conservative, as Jacksonville was with the lead in the AFC Championship Game.
They need to put constant pressure on Brady, hit him hard, and force mistakes. They need to cover the fleet. speedy receiver Brandon Cooks and not fall for the double-move that burned Eagle corner backs during the year. Eagle linebackers need to cover Patriot running backs out of the flat and shifty, crafty wide-out Danny Amandola. The defense needs to continue to top the run and make Brady throw the ball.Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz needs to blitz to keep Brady honest and stay aggressive. Don't turtle-up, Eagle coaches, as both the Jags and Falcons did vs. New England.
New England cruised thru the playoffs, again earning home field advantage, beating Tennessee and Jacksonville to get to Super bowl LII. The Eagles, also a No. 1 seed, had home field advantage, but were underdogs at home to both Atlanta and Minnesota. Yet the Birds crushed the vaunted Vikes while the Patriots had trouble in New England with the up-start Jags.
Common sense says take New England. It's Brady and they've been there before, and they are still hungry for a record-tying sixth title. With the Pats aging, who knows when they will get back to the Super Bowl, although their path in the weaker AFC is more assured.
Lose and the Eagles should return to the Super Bowl sooner than later, this time with Wentz leading the way. But nothing is certain, as we saw, with bad luck, bad calls and injuries in the way. Strike while the iron is hot, this may be the best chance the Eagles have to win a world championship, especially a sweet one, beating the defending champs.
Every Super Bowl New England has played in, winning five of eight, has been close. So why should this one be different? The Eagles are 4-4 1/2 point dogs. Take the Eagles and the points, if not bet the birds to win striagth up as one bettor did this week in Vegas, laying down a $1 million wager.
As Ray Didinger said this morning on WIP, stats say take the Patriots. But analytics and numbers have been wrong all year about Philly. Most predictions had the Eagles going 8-8 for the 2017 season, not even making the playoffs, let alone reaching the Super Bowl.
Sometimes fate and emotion trump logic and cold-hard facts. Destiny vs. Dynasty. Dynasties eventually end. Destinies are meant to be.
If the Eagles are ahead late in the game, it would be nice if they were leading by a touchdown or more, to save all Eagle fans angina in the final minutes, for fear of yet another Brady comeback.
Other than Brady, and granted, that's a really big "other than", the Eagles are simply a better football team. The war in the trenches- the offensive and defensive lines- usually wins football games, and the Birds are better.They have better running backs, a better secondary and overall defense. And with the way Doug Pederson and Nick Foles have been coaching and playing during the playoffs, are they even better at this point, for one game, than even Brady and Belichek?
Play ten times and the Patriots may win seven games. Who says Sunday night won't be one of the three out of ten Eagle victories?
I'm an Eagle homer, and I like to go with the hot hand. True, when I envisioned this run, I thought the Eagles would win the NFC playoffs and lose in the Super bowl, be it to New England or Pittsburgh. I couldn't see Nick Foles taking them any father, the team happy to get there, telling itself they will return someday soon with Wentz and a real shot to win.
But I just can't see this team of destiny, this special team we will remember and talk about forever, losing. They have come too far and have overcame too much to lose now. The fairy tale ending to this surprising, magical season shouldn't end with a sad, depressing loss.
Karma and good wishes stay with the Birds on Sunday. New England may cheat but Philly is destined to win. The area will celebrate for one of it's sports teams like never before. The victory parade will be massive. And who knows/ Maybe the positive vibes and good, winning feelings will trickle down to the Sixers, Flyers and Phillies as well, and Philadelphia will be known as the City of Champions, not Boston.
I can dream, can't I? The Cubs won it all, why not the Eagles?
Al Michaels is calling the game on NBC Sunday night. He was the guy who famously said at 1980 Winter Olympics when hockey Team USA upset the mighty Russians "Do you believe in miracles? Yes!!!!"What will he say when the Eagles finally are world champions on Sunday night, and their long-suffering fans are vindicated, and those who are dearly departed, like my dad, an Eagle fan, look down and smile.?
Eagles 23 Patriots 17.
One more game. The ultimate prize. Will the Eagles win their first-ever Super Bowl title this Sunday night against the evil empire, the New England Patriots?
There are compelling reasons to pick each team. New England has the experience and the mystic. To be the champs you gotta beat the champs, and defeating the Patriots and derailing their dynasty would be sweet revenge for the Birds, who lost to Brady and Belichek in 2005 in the Super Bowl.
New England has Brady and Belichek, maybe the greatest quarterback and coach of all time. Plus the Pats know how to win big games. Don't give the ball to Brady with two minutes remaining and the Patriots needing a score to win.
The Eagles had a terrific season, also going 13-3, like New England. They were underdogs after Carson Wentz tore up his knee in early December against the Rams. Yet the Birds haven't lost a meaningful game since November, when they lost at Seattle on Sunday Night Football.
The Birds need to keep playing as they are, with aggressiveness and play smart football- no turnovers and limit the stupid penalties. They need to control the ball, which keeps the ball out of Brady's hands. They can be conservative, as Jacksonville was with the lead in the AFC Championship Game.
They need to put constant pressure on Brady, hit him hard, and force mistakes. They need to cover the fleet. speedy receiver Brandon Cooks and not fall for the double-move that burned Eagle corner backs during the year. Eagle linebackers need to cover Patriot running backs out of the flat and shifty, crafty wide-out Danny Amandola. The defense needs to continue to top the run and make Brady throw the ball.Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz needs to blitz to keep Brady honest and stay aggressive. Don't turtle-up, Eagle coaches, as both the Jags and Falcons did vs. New England.
New England cruised thru the playoffs, again earning home field advantage, beating Tennessee and Jacksonville to get to Super bowl LII. The Eagles, also a No. 1 seed, had home field advantage, but were underdogs at home to both Atlanta and Minnesota. Yet the Birds crushed the vaunted Vikes while the Patriots had trouble in New England with the up-start Jags.
Common sense says take New England. It's Brady and they've been there before, and they are still hungry for a record-tying sixth title. With the Pats aging, who knows when they will get back to the Super Bowl, although their path in the weaker AFC is more assured.
Lose and the Eagles should return to the Super Bowl sooner than later, this time with Wentz leading the way. But nothing is certain, as we saw, with bad luck, bad calls and injuries in the way. Strike while the iron is hot, this may be the best chance the Eagles have to win a world championship, especially a sweet one, beating the defending champs.
Every Super Bowl New England has played in, winning five of eight, has been close. So why should this one be different? The Eagles are 4-4 1/2 point dogs. Take the Eagles and the points, if not bet the birds to win striagth up as one bettor did this week in Vegas, laying down a $1 million wager.
As Ray Didinger said this morning on WIP, stats say take the Patriots. But analytics and numbers have been wrong all year about Philly. Most predictions had the Eagles going 8-8 for the 2017 season, not even making the playoffs, let alone reaching the Super Bowl.
Sometimes fate and emotion trump logic and cold-hard facts. Destiny vs. Dynasty. Dynasties eventually end. Destinies are meant to be.
If the Eagles are ahead late in the game, it would be nice if they were leading by a touchdown or more, to save all Eagle fans angina in the final minutes, for fear of yet another Brady comeback.
Other than Brady, and granted, that's a really big "other than", the Eagles are simply a better football team. The war in the trenches- the offensive and defensive lines- usually wins football games, and the Birds are better.They have better running backs, a better secondary and overall defense. And with the way Doug Pederson and Nick Foles have been coaching and playing during the playoffs, are they even better at this point, for one game, than even Brady and Belichek?
Play ten times and the Patriots may win seven games. Who says Sunday night won't be one of the three out of ten Eagle victories?
I'm an Eagle homer, and I like to go with the hot hand. True, when I envisioned this run, I thought the Eagles would win the NFC playoffs and lose in the Super bowl, be it to New England or Pittsburgh. I couldn't see Nick Foles taking them any father, the team happy to get there, telling itself they will return someday soon with Wentz and a real shot to win.
But I just can't see this team of destiny, this special team we will remember and talk about forever, losing. They have come too far and have overcame too much to lose now. The fairy tale ending to this surprising, magical season shouldn't end with a sad, depressing loss.
Karma and good wishes stay with the Birds on Sunday. New England may cheat but Philly is destined to win. The area will celebrate for one of it's sports teams like never before. The victory parade will be massive. And who knows/ Maybe the positive vibes and good, winning feelings will trickle down to the Sixers, Flyers and Phillies as well, and Philadelphia will be known as the City of Champions, not Boston.
I can dream, can't I? The Cubs won it all, why not the Eagles?
Al Michaels is calling the game on NBC Sunday night. He was the guy who famously said at 1980 Winter Olympics when hockey Team USA upset the mighty Russians "Do you believe in miracles? Yes!!!!"What will he say when the Eagles finally are world champions on Sunday night, and their long-suffering fans are vindicated, and those who are dearly departed, like my dad, an Eagle fan, look down and smile.?
Eagles 23 Patriots 17.
CHIRPING BIRDS- MORE SUPER BOWL NOTES, ALEX SMITH TRADE
* More Eagle notes..
* Happy 50th Birthday, Doug Pederson!!!!!!!!!!!!! A perfect birthday present will be an Eagle victory in the Super bowl this Sunday!
- The Delaware Valley continues to be in the midst of Eaglemania as Super Bowl Sunday inches closer. Only four days and counting. The week between the championship games and the Super bowl is excruciating for the fans, but it does allow one to enjoy the NFC Championship a bit before focusing on New England.
More Eagles headline news: Church choirs are singing the Eagles' praise-literally- during services. As the week ends, more parties in workplaces, schools and nursing home facilities will occur. Friday will be Eagles Gear Day instead of Dress-Down Day. The supermarkets will be packed with fans shopping for parties. Already local delis are being swamped with party tray orders for Sunday afternoon. The sporting goods stores report that Eagles' merchandise is flying off shelves. Joy abounds as we wait for the weekend.
As anxious as most fans may get about the game, this entire ride has been fun, a time never to be forgotten,w in or lose. You wish every January could be as fun, and who knows, it may be with Carson Wentz as quarterback for the next 10-15 years?
- Patriots QB Tom Brady scoffed at the idea that the birds are underdogs. I agree, the Eagles were 13-3 this season, as were the Pats. Just to get this far is a tremendous accomplishment. But the Eagles didn't make themselves underdogs- Vegas did, the so-called football experts did, and Philadelphia overcame numerous injuries along the way.
The Eagles are just running with the underdog ball now. It has worked so far, why not? Brady doesn't want to be seen as the big, bad, spoiled tyrant, going to Minneapolis to crush the poor, weak underdog darling of fans.
Philly should continue to play the underdog card- until the game starts. Then, the Eagles need to be confident, aggressive and show New England who is boss.
- The NFC Championship Game is history, yet Minnesota Vikings supporters continue to whine, the sore losers they are. Now the Minneapolis mayor has made a welcoming video for fans coming to his city for the big game on Sunday, and the mayor made several sarcastic remarks about the Bird sand their fans. The moron couldn't just welcome both the Patriots and Eagles and leave it at that. He felt the need to make stupid comments about "greasing poles in Minnesota. "
Again, for the 100th time, Viking fans should vent their anger and bitterness to their team, not the victorious Eagles. The Viking players didn't show up during the NFC Championship Game. Their vaunted defense got lit up for 38 points. Their esteemed coach looked confused and befuddled. Mike Zimmer obviously did a poor job getting his team ready to play.
Bad luck for the Eagles that the last two times they appear in a Super bowl, the game has been held in crappy locations. First it was dismal Jacksonville, certainly not a sunny, welcome destination,; now it's cold and frozen Minneapolis, where the highlight of their city and the center of their welcoming universe is a shopping mall. Not a historical building or an important cultural area of their city, but a frigign' mall.
Minnesota fans should shut up and wait 'til next year.
* Reports are that the Kansas City Chiefs will trade QB Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins for a third-round draft pick this spring and a corner back. This deal has ramifications around the league as well.
First, Eagle fans should be happy. Smith is an average guy, nothing special. He couldn't take the Chiefs far, even with home field advantage the last few years. So, between Prescott in Dallas, Smith in Washington and whomever in New York ( Eli Manning?), Carson Wentz in Philadelphia remains the best quarterback in the NFC East.
KC will turn the page with young. big-armed QB Patrick Mahomes. And soon-to-be former Redskin QB Kirk Cousins will become a free agent as of March 14 and will lead another club next fall.
I fear Cousins more than Smith. He will get plenty of offers, from QB-needy teams like the Jets, Browns and Bills. I think he will go to Denver. John Elway isn't used to running the Broncos without a true No. 1 quarterback. With the Bronco defense, they aren't that far away from again challenging in the AFC West division.
For redskin fans, it means even more transition and instability. Washington fans will feel better in knowing that Smith will be around for four years or more, but is Alex Smith really the answer?
* Happy 50th Birthday, Doug Pederson!!!!!!!!!!!!! A perfect birthday present will be an Eagle victory in the Super bowl this Sunday!
- The Delaware Valley continues to be in the midst of Eaglemania as Super Bowl Sunday inches closer. Only four days and counting. The week between the championship games and the Super bowl is excruciating for the fans, but it does allow one to enjoy the NFC Championship a bit before focusing on New England.
More Eagles headline news: Church choirs are singing the Eagles' praise-literally- during services. As the week ends, more parties in workplaces, schools and nursing home facilities will occur. Friday will be Eagles Gear Day instead of Dress-Down Day. The supermarkets will be packed with fans shopping for parties. Already local delis are being swamped with party tray orders for Sunday afternoon. The sporting goods stores report that Eagles' merchandise is flying off shelves. Joy abounds as we wait for the weekend.
As anxious as most fans may get about the game, this entire ride has been fun, a time never to be forgotten,w in or lose. You wish every January could be as fun, and who knows, it may be with Carson Wentz as quarterback for the next 10-15 years?
- Patriots QB Tom Brady scoffed at the idea that the birds are underdogs. I agree, the Eagles were 13-3 this season, as were the Pats. Just to get this far is a tremendous accomplishment. But the Eagles didn't make themselves underdogs- Vegas did, the so-called football experts did, and Philadelphia overcame numerous injuries along the way.
The Eagles are just running with the underdog ball now. It has worked so far, why not? Brady doesn't want to be seen as the big, bad, spoiled tyrant, going to Minneapolis to crush the poor, weak underdog darling of fans.
Philly should continue to play the underdog card- until the game starts. Then, the Eagles need to be confident, aggressive and show New England who is boss.
- The NFC Championship Game is history, yet Minnesota Vikings supporters continue to whine, the sore losers they are. Now the Minneapolis mayor has made a welcoming video for fans coming to his city for the big game on Sunday, and the mayor made several sarcastic remarks about the Bird sand their fans. The moron couldn't just welcome both the Patriots and Eagles and leave it at that. He felt the need to make stupid comments about "greasing poles in Minnesota. "
Again, for the 100th time, Viking fans should vent their anger and bitterness to their team, not the victorious Eagles. The Viking players didn't show up during the NFC Championship Game. Their vaunted defense got lit up for 38 points. Their esteemed coach looked confused and befuddled. Mike Zimmer obviously did a poor job getting his team ready to play.
Bad luck for the Eagles that the last two times they appear in a Super bowl, the game has been held in crappy locations. First it was dismal Jacksonville, certainly not a sunny, welcome destination,; now it's cold and frozen Minneapolis, where the highlight of their city and the center of their welcoming universe is a shopping mall. Not a historical building or an important cultural area of their city, but a frigign' mall.
Minnesota fans should shut up and wait 'til next year.
* Reports are that the Kansas City Chiefs will trade QB Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins for a third-round draft pick this spring and a corner back. This deal has ramifications around the league as well.
First, Eagle fans should be happy. Smith is an average guy, nothing special. He couldn't take the Chiefs far, even with home field advantage the last few years. So, between Prescott in Dallas, Smith in Washington and whomever in New York ( Eli Manning?), Carson Wentz in Philadelphia remains the best quarterback in the NFC East.
KC will turn the page with young. big-armed QB Patrick Mahomes. And soon-to-be former Redskin QB Kirk Cousins will become a free agent as of March 14 and will lead another club next fall.
I fear Cousins more than Smith. He will get plenty of offers, from QB-needy teams like the Jets, Browns and Bills. I think he will go to Denver. John Elway isn't used to running the Broncos without a true No. 1 quarterback. With the Bronco defense, they aren't that far away from again challenging in the AFC West division.
For redskin fans, it means even more transition and instability. Washington fans will feel better in knowing that Smith will be around for four years or more, but is Alex Smith really the answer?
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Eagles Fact: Brian Westbrook-
Brian Westbrook was denigrated as a small back because he was just 5'8", but he was very solidly built at 200 pounds and held up well as the main offensive threat for Andy Reid's Eagles.
With Wilbert Montgomery and LeSean McCoy, Brian was one of three Eagles to gain over 2,000 yards from scrimmage (rushing and receiving) in a single season. He was named to two Pro Bowls and once was first team All-Pro.
Brian Westbrook trivia-
1. Who is the only Eagle runner to appear in more games than Westbrook?
2. Who are the top three Eagle running backs in receptions?
3. How many TD passes did Westbrook throw in his NFL career?
4. Westbrook's brother Byron played where in the NFL?
5. Where did Brian end his career?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Brian Westbrook was denigrated as a small back because he was just 5'8", but he was very solidly built at 200 pounds and held up well as the main offensive threat for Andy Reid's Eagles.
With Wilbert Montgomery and LeSean McCoy, Brian was one of three Eagles to gain over 2,000 yards from scrimmage (rushing and receiving) in a single season. He was named to two Pro Bowls and once was first team All-Pro.
Brian Westbrook trivia-
1. Who is the only Eagle runner to appear in more games than Westbrook?
2. Who are the top three Eagle running backs in receptions?
3. How many TD passes did Westbrook throw in his NFL career?
4. Westbrook's brother Byron played where in the NFL?
5. Where did Brian end his career?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 31
Gridiron Legends
March the uniform number to the pro football legend from the past:
Uniform Number Legend
A. 3 1. Don Hutson
B. 16 2 Dick Butkus
C. 51 3. Lance Alworth
D. 33 4. Red Grange
E. 5 5. Sammy Baugh
F. 13 6. Frank Gifford
G 14 7. Paul Hornung
H 19 8. Don Maynard
I 66 9. Bronco Nagurski
J. 77 10. Ray Nitschke
Answers-
A-9
B-6
C-2
D-5
E-7
F-8
g-1
H-3
I-10
J-4
March the uniform number to the pro football legend from the past:
Uniform Number Legend
A. 3 1. Don Hutson
B. 16 2 Dick Butkus
C. 51 3. Lance Alworth
D. 33 4. Red Grange
E. 5 5. Sammy Baugh
F. 13 6. Frank Gifford
G 14 7. Paul Hornung
H 19 8. Don Maynard
I 66 9. Bronco Nagurski
J. 77 10. Ray Nitschke
Answers-
A-9
B-6
C-2
D-5
E-7
F-8
g-1
H-3
I-10
J-4
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
IN THE NEWS- FDA GRANTS 'BREAKTHROUGH THERAPY' STATUS TO POTENTIAL AUTISM DRUG
This important news is from Disability Scoop..
A major pharmaceutical company says it has received a designation from the Food and Drug Administration to help expedite what could be the first drug to treat the core symptoms of autism.
Swiss drug maker Roche said this week that the FDA has granted its breakthrough therapy designation for the development of balovaptan, a medication with the potential to improve "core social interaction and communication" in those with autism.
The FDA uses the breakthrough therapy designation to speed the development of promising medications for serious conditions. It offers drugmakers added assistance and priority from the federal agency as they work to get a new treatment to market.
There are only two drugs- risperidone and aripripazole- with FDA approval to treat irritability related to autism. No drugs are currently approved to address core symptoms of the condition.
Results from a clinical trial in adults with autism released earlier this year indicate that balovaptan was successful in helping mediate challenging social behaviors and was safe and well tolerated. Another trial looking at children and adolescents on the spectrum is underway and additional studies are in the works, Roche said.
"We are very pleased that the FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designation for balovaptan in recognition of its early promise for individuals with ASD," said Sandra Hoening, chief medical officer and head of global product development at Roche. "We look forward to working closely with the FDA in the hope that we can bring this medicine to these individuals as quickly as possible."
A major pharmaceutical company says it has received a designation from the Food and Drug Administration to help expedite what could be the first drug to treat the core symptoms of autism.
Swiss drug maker Roche said this week that the FDA has granted its breakthrough therapy designation for the development of balovaptan, a medication with the potential to improve "core social interaction and communication" in those with autism.
The FDA uses the breakthrough therapy designation to speed the development of promising medications for serious conditions. It offers drugmakers added assistance and priority from the federal agency as they work to get a new treatment to market.
There are only two drugs- risperidone and aripripazole- with FDA approval to treat irritability related to autism. No drugs are currently approved to address core symptoms of the condition.
Results from a clinical trial in adults with autism released earlier this year indicate that balovaptan was successful in helping mediate challenging social behaviors and was safe and well tolerated. Another trial looking at children and adolescents on the spectrum is underway and additional studies are in the works, Roche said.
"We are very pleased that the FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designation for balovaptan in recognition of its early promise for individuals with ASD," said Sandra Hoening, chief medical officer and head of global product development at Roche. "We look forward to working closely with the FDA in the hope that we can bring this medicine to these individuals as quickly as possible."
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS
* More Eagle notes...
- The mighty Patriots arrived in Minneapolis yesterday afternoon on their personal jet, with a large Patriots logo on the plane. They came into town like rock stars, coming off as big and bad, while the Eagles arrived via chartered flight, humble and toting their own bags.
Just another visual of the David vs. Goliath scenario. Destiny vs. Dynasty.
- The local stories continue. Like the local church that is ringing the Eagles fight songs from their steeple twice a day. The bus driver of 40 years , a gigantic Eagles fan, who was surprised by families on his daily route by an all-expense paid trip and tickets to the Super Bowl. The moms and kids funded the trip with a Go Fund Me account.
- Looking back on it, should we be surprised that QB Nick Foles is playing so great? Both his head coach and offensive coordinator were also back-up quarterbacks in their day. Foles gaining confidence, Foles' increased playing time with the first team, and great coaching have all contributed to his postseason brilliance.
- Reports are that bitter Minnesota Viking fans lustily booed Foles at media night on Monday. Maybe those dopey fans should boo their own team, who didn't show up in the NFC Championship Game, especially their QB, Case Keenum, who choked. Viking fans are sore losers who can't stomach the fact that they missed out on being the first team to host a Super Bowl.
It's true that a few Philly fans were stupid around the NFC Championship Game by harassing Viking players at their Philadelphia hotel. Other than Eagle fans chanting "Skoal!" at Minnesota supporters, I didn't see our fans hassle their fans that much at the game. In fact, Minnesota fans had the gall to drape a purple towel over the Rocky statue, a true desecration.
We have never won a Super bowl. Stop being jealous, Minnesota jerks, and other media idiots. Be happy for the die-hard, long-suffering loyal Eagle fans. We deserve it.
* The Sixers lost at Milwaukee last night to the Bucks. Speculation was that Joel Embiid was going to play back-to-back games for the first time. Instead, Embiid sat and the 76'ers lost. They are now 2-8 this season when Embiid doesn't play.
- The mighty Patriots arrived in Minneapolis yesterday afternoon on their personal jet, with a large Patriots logo on the plane. They came into town like rock stars, coming off as big and bad, while the Eagles arrived via chartered flight, humble and toting their own bags.
Just another visual of the David vs. Goliath scenario. Destiny vs. Dynasty.
- The local stories continue. Like the local church that is ringing the Eagles fight songs from their steeple twice a day. The bus driver of 40 years , a gigantic Eagles fan, who was surprised by families on his daily route by an all-expense paid trip and tickets to the Super Bowl. The moms and kids funded the trip with a Go Fund Me account.
- Looking back on it, should we be surprised that QB Nick Foles is playing so great? Both his head coach and offensive coordinator were also back-up quarterbacks in their day. Foles gaining confidence, Foles' increased playing time with the first team, and great coaching have all contributed to his postseason brilliance.
- Reports are that bitter Minnesota Viking fans lustily booed Foles at media night on Monday. Maybe those dopey fans should boo their own team, who didn't show up in the NFC Championship Game, especially their QB, Case Keenum, who choked. Viking fans are sore losers who can't stomach the fact that they missed out on being the first team to host a Super Bowl.
It's true that a few Philly fans were stupid around the NFC Championship Game by harassing Viking players at their Philadelphia hotel. Other than Eagle fans chanting "Skoal!" at Minnesota supporters, I didn't see our fans hassle their fans that much at the game. In fact, Minnesota fans had the gall to drape a purple towel over the Rocky statue, a true desecration.
We have never won a Super bowl. Stop being jealous, Minnesota jerks, and other media idiots. Be happy for the die-hard, long-suffering loyal Eagle fans. We deserve it.
* The Sixers lost at Milwaukee last night to the Bucks. Speculation was that Joel Embiid was going to play back-to-back games for the first time. Instead, Embiid sat and the 76'ers lost. They are now 2-8 this season when Embiid doesn't play.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
2004 Season: Super Bowl XXXIX
It only took another 24 years to get back to the Super Bowl. In 2004, the Eagles had endured three straight losses in conference championship games, the last two at ho,e, but were a confident dominating bunch all year. Besides a great defense, the team had finally gotten a number one receiver in Terrell Owens. In fact, they had gotten the best number one receiver in the league and seemed almost unbeatable before he went down with a broken bone in his leg in the 14th game of the year. The Eagles swept through the playoffs without him, but were happy to have him return for the Super Bowl.
It only took another 24 years to get back to the Super Bowl. In 2004, the Eagles had endured three straight losses in conference championship games, the last two at ho,e, but were a confident dominating bunch all year. Besides a great defense, the team had finally gotten a number one receiver in Terrell Owens. In fact, they had gotten the best number one receiver in the league and seemed almost unbeatable before he went down with a broken bone in his leg in the 14th game of the year. The Eagles swept through the playoffs without him, but were happy to have him return for the Super Bowl.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 30
Speaking of Sports
"The importance that our society attaches to sport is incredible. After all, is football a game or a religion? The people of this country have allowed sports to get completely out of hand."
- Howard Cosell
"The importance that our society attaches to sport is incredible. After all, is football a game or a religion? The people of this country have allowed sports to get completely out of hand."
- Howard Cosell
Monday, January 29, 2018
IN THE NEWS- EEOC RECORDS DROP IN JOB-BASED DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS
From Disability Scoop..
After two record-setting years, federal officials are reporting that complaints of disability-based job discrimination are down.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said charges of job bias related to disability dropped to 26,838 in 2017 from an all-time high of 28,073 the year prior.
The decline mirrors an overall decrease in complaints to the agency last year.
The EEOC is tasked with monitoring disability-related workplace discrimination as well as employment discrimination complaints related to race, color, sex, age, religion, retaliation, pay equity, genetic information and national origin.
For 2017, 31.9 percent of the 84,254 charges received by the agency cited disability discrimination, the EEOC said.
Of the disability-related cases. 5,540 were resolved in favor of the person who brought the complaint and the agency secured $135.2 million in monetary benefits for them.
After two record-setting years, federal officials are reporting that complaints of disability-based job discrimination are down.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said charges of job bias related to disability dropped to 26,838 in 2017 from an all-time high of 28,073 the year prior.
The decline mirrors an overall decrease in complaints to the agency last year.
The EEOC is tasked with monitoring disability-related workplace discrimination as well as employment discrimination complaints related to race, color, sex, age, religion, retaliation, pay equity, genetic information and national origin.
For 2017, 31.9 percent of the 84,254 charges received by the agency cited disability discrimination, the EEOC said.
Of the disability-related cases. 5,540 were resolved in favor of the person who brought the complaint and the agency secured $135.2 million in monetary benefits for them.
CHIRPING BIRDS- MORE SUPER BOWL NOTES
More items to ponder as we move to six days away from Super bowl LII between our Eagles and the evil empire, the New England Patriots....
* The game is being billed by NBC Sports, which will cover the Super Bowl on Sunday, as Destiny vs Dynasty. It's true: The Eagles are a team of destiny, the ultimate underdogs, getting to the Super bowl despite losing MVP- caliber quarterback Carson Wentz, overcoming numerous injuries all year, defying the odds in the playoffs, and going against perhaps the greatest quarterback and coach of all-time.
New England is a dynasty, winners of five of eight Super Bowls which Brady and Belichek were involved. The Patriots do have a certain aura about them, a feeling of invincibility, a feeling of "even if we get behind, we will comeback, no matter what."
The Pats have been there before. They know how to win They annually cruise through the AFC East, grab home field advantage, and force opposing teams to beat New England in the cold, snowy weather.
Dynasties eventually have to end. Destiny can't be stopped, that's why it's called destiny. It's meant to be. And that's why Destiny will beat Dynasty on Sunday and the Birds will be world champions.
* It's all-Eagles news coverage this week. Already the headlines are extensive coverage of the Birds boarding their jet yesterday morning to Minneapolis, then even more extensive coverage when they landed. Reporters are hanging around their hotel, breaking news such as several players were seen at the Mall of America buying a new X-Box set.
By the time Sunday at 6:30 p.m. finally arrives, it will be refreshing just to play the damn game. But, despite all of the annoying news coverage, I would still rather deal with the stupid questions and feature stories then not.
For the players, being a part of the Super bowl is finally sinking in. For me, it will sink in when the players are introduced and Eagle green is on the Minnesota field with Patriot white.
* It will be a true battle of tight ends on Sunday when All-Pros Rob Gronkowski and Zach Ertz face-off. The New England tight end is coming off a concussion form a blow to the head he took in the AFC Championship Game vs. Jacksonville. He is expected to play against the Eagles. Ertz finally had his break-out season this year, and especially proved valuable in the red zone, scoring nine touchdowns in the regular season.
The game will be decided in the trenches, and the Brady/Foles match-up will be big as well. But keep your end on the tight end battle, as it could be a deciding factor on Sunday.
* Philadelphia mayor Jim Kenney made a stupid bet with the Boston mayor. Usually it's about food, like if we win you send us a bunch of lobsters, and if you win, we will give you guys a load of cheese steaks, something harmless like that. Instead, Kenney made a wager hopefully he won't regret.
If New England wins, a Patriots jersey will adorn the iconic, beloved Rocky statue near the Art Museum.
It's great that Kinney is so confident in the Birds, he would risk such embarrassment. But it isn't like a cheese steak that will go away. Even if the damn jersey is on the statue for only a brief moment, someone will get a photo of that moment and it will go viral, especially in Boston.
The fans got all sensitive about Viking fans draping the statue in purple and gold during the NFC Championship week, so why would goofy mayor Kinney risk offending so many Philly fans in the area?He's an ass anyway, as he proclaimed after the victory over Minnesota , when there were some rowdy fans harassing Viking players and fans, that it wasn't Philadelphians, that it were Eagle fans form the suburbs and Jersey who were the real troublemakers.
* An article in a local paper over the weekend speculated if the Eagles should trade QB Nick Foles in the off-season. Win or lose, so many quarterback-hungry teams in the NFL will be calling the team and inquiring about his availability. This is putting the horse before the cart, as we haven't even played the Super Bowl yet, but let's consider.
If a team offers the Birds, let's say,a high second round draft pick, would that be enough for GM Howie Rossman to flip Foles? That would be great value for a guy you signed as a back-up and who will go back to holding a clipboard on the sidelines once Wentz returns after his injury. Foles would likely welcome a deal which would make him a starter elsewhere.
Wentz is scheduled to be ready come opening day in September, but what if he isn't? Do you sacrifice the first month of the season until Wentz returns? In Foles, you know the Birds will competitive. Games lost in September hurt just as much as games lost later in the year. Foles would be a great insurance policy, win or lose this Sunday.
But, a high draft pick this April , with a chance to add yet another young starter, is tough to turn down. What would you do?
* The game is being billed by NBC Sports, which will cover the Super Bowl on Sunday, as Destiny vs Dynasty. It's true: The Eagles are a team of destiny, the ultimate underdogs, getting to the Super bowl despite losing MVP- caliber quarterback Carson Wentz, overcoming numerous injuries all year, defying the odds in the playoffs, and going against perhaps the greatest quarterback and coach of all-time.
New England is a dynasty, winners of five of eight Super Bowls which Brady and Belichek were involved. The Patriots do have a certain aura about them, a feeling of invincibility, a feeling of "even if we get behind, we will comeback, no matter what."
The Pats have been there before. They know how to win They annually cruise through the AFC East, grab home field advantage, and force opposing teams to beat New England in the cold, snowy weather.
Dynasties eventually have to end. Destiny can't be stopped, that's why it's called destiny. It's meant to be. And that's why Destiny will beat Dynasty on Sunday and the Birds will be world champions.
* It's all-Eagles news coverage this week. Already the headlines are extensive coverage of the Birds boarding their jet yesterday morning to Minneapolis, then even more extensive coverage when they landed. Reporters are hanging around their hotel, breaking news such as several players were seen at the Mall of America buying a new X-Box set.
By the time Sunday at 6:30 p.m. finally arrives, it will be refreshing just to play the damn game. But, despite all of the annoying news coverage, I would still rather deal with the stupid questions and feature stories then not.
For the players, being a part of the Super bowl is finally sinking in. For me, it will sink in when the players are introduced and Eagle green is on the Minnesota field with Patriot white.
* It will be a true battle of tight ends on Sunday when All-Pros Rob Gronkowski and Zach Ertz face-off. The New England tight end is coming off a concussion form a blow to the head he took in the AFC Championship Game vs. Jacksonville. He is expected to play against the Eagles. Ertz finally had his break-out season this year, and especially proved valuable in the red zone, scoring nine touchdowns in the regular season.
The game will be decided in the trenches, and the Brady/Foles match-up will be big as well. But keep your end on the tight end battle, as it could be a deciding factor on Sunday.
* Philadelphia mayor Jim Kenney made a stupid bet with the Boston mayor. Usually it's about food, like if we win you send us a bunch of lobsters, and if you win, we will give you guys a load of cheese steaks, something harmless like that. Instead, Kenney made a wager hopefully he won't regret.
If New England wins, a Patriots jersey will adorn the iconic, beloved Rocky statue near the Art Museum.
It's great that Kinney is so confident in the Birds, he would risk such embarrassment. But it isn't like a cheese steak that will go away. Even if the damn jersey is on the statue for only a brief moment, someone will get a photo of that moment and it will go viral, especially in Boston.
The fans got all sensitive about Viking fans draping the statue in purple and gold during the NFC Championship week, so why would goofy mayor Kinney risk offending so many Philly fans in the area?He's an ass anyway, as he proclaimed after the victory over Minnesota , when there were some rowdy fans harassing Viking players and fans, that it wasn't Philadelphians, that it were Eagle fans form the suburbs and Jersey who were the real troublemakers.
* An article in a local paper over the weekend speculated if the Eagles should trade QB Nick Foles in the off-season. Win or lose, so many quarterback-hungry teams in the NFL will be calling the team and inquiring about his availability. This is putting the horse before the cart, as we haven't even played the Super Bowl yet, but let's consider.
If a team offers the Birds, let's say,a high second round draft pick, would that be enough for GM Howie Rossman to flip Foles? That would be great value for a guy you signed as a back-up and who will go back to holding a clipboard on the sidelines once Wentz returns after his injury. Foles would likely welcome a deal which would make him a starter elsewhere.
Wentz is scheduled to be ready come opening day in September, but what if he isn't? Do you sacrifice the first month of the season until Wentz returns? In Foles, you know the Birds will competitive. Games lost in September hurt just as much as games lost later in the year. Foles would be a great insurance policy, win or lose this Sunday.
But, a high draft pick this April , with a chance to add yet another young starter, is tough to turn down. What would you do?
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- ALL-STAR GAMES, SIXERS, PHILLIES
* The NFL Pro Bowl was played on Sunday. It was strange not having an NFL game on TV since September. The Pro Bowl went back to an AFC vs. NFC format, with the AFC winning, 24-23.
Even though I missed football yesterday I didn't miss it enough to watch the putrid Pro Bowl game, which may be the worst pro sports all-star game. First, there were no Eagles in the game, obviously, because the Birds are in the Super Bowl. Second, it's a meaningless game where players play at half-speed, no blitzing is allowed, and the rules are changed.
On the other hand, I did watch most of the NHL All-Star game, and it was entertaining as hell. The 3-on-3 format, like a regular season overtime period, makes for wide-open, fast-paced action.
The Pacific Division eventually won the million dollar prize, but it really didn't matter. More than the football Pro Bowl, the hockey all-star game featured the skills of the NHL's best players. It's action-packed with goals galore.
The Flyers' Claude Giroux scored a goal for the Metropolitan Division in their match-up against the winning Atlantic Division. Giroux was the only Flyer in the game.The Orange and Black begin play again om Wednesday at Washington to face the Capitols.
* The Sixers lost a competitive game at Oklahoma City vs. the Thunder last night. OKC's Russell Westbrook scored 39 points, while Joel Embiid tallied 27 points, continuing their bitter rivalry.
The 76'ers continue their four-game road trip tonight at Milwaukee. The game is significant in that Embiid may play tonight for the first time in back-to-back games.
* The Baltimore Orioles recently announced they are moving third baseman Manny Machado to shortstop for the 2018 season. Machado was originally a shortstop before shifting to the hot corner for Baltimore.
Machado is 25-years-old. He is slated to become a free agent after this season, unless he resigns with the Orioles ( doubtful) or he is traded. If Machado walks away form Baltimore after the summer he will likely be moved back to third again, especially if the Phillies pursue him,a s expected.
Even though I missed football yesterday I didn't miss it enough to watch the putrid Pro Bowl game, which may be the worst pro sports all-star game. First, there were no Eagles in the game, obviously, because the Birds are in the Super Bowl. Second, it's a meaningless game where players play at half-speed, no blitzing is allowed, and the rules are changed.
On the other hand, I did watch most of the NHL All-Star game, and it was entertaining as hell. The 3-on-3 format, like a regular season overtime period, makes for wide-open, fast-paced action.
The Pacific Division eventually won the million dollar prize, but it really didn't matter. More than the football Pro Bowl, the hockey all-star game featured the skills of the NHL's best players. It's action-packed with goals galore.
The Flyers' Claude Giroux scored a goal for the Metropolitan Division in their match-up against the winning Atlantic Division. Giroux was the only Flyer in the game.The Orange and Black begin play again om Wednesday at Washington to face the Capitols.
* The Sixers lost a competitive game at Oklahoma City vs. the Thunder last night. OKC's Russell Westbrook scored 39 points, while Joel Embiid tallied 27 points, continuing their bitter rivalry.
The 76'ers continue their four-game road trip tonight at Milwaukee. The game is significant in that Embiid may play tonight for the first time in back-to-back games.
* The Baltimore Orioles recently announced they are moving third baseman Manny Machado to shortstop for the 2018 season. Machado was originally a shortstop before shifting to the hot corner for Baltimore.
Machado is 25-years-old. He is slated to become a free agent after this season, unless he resigns with the Orioles ( doubtful) or he is traded. If Machado walks away form Baltimore after the summer he will likely be moved back to third again, especially if the Phillies pursue him,a s expected.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
2004 Season: Super Bowl XV
Twenty years after the 1960 championship, the Eagles returned to the title game, although it was now a much bigger "ultimate game" experience. Once again, the Eagles were a team of overachievers led by a fiery quarterback obtained from the Rams and a vocal, hard-hitting veteran linebacker.
As good as he was, though, Jaworski was not Van Brocklin, and the battered Bill Bergey was not Bednarik. The Birds lost 27-10.
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Jersey Numbers in the 90s
1. Defensive tackle Corey Simon.
2. There were two. Smiley Creswell, for three games in 1985, and Reggie White.
3. Brandon Whiting wore number 98 and was traded with a draft pick for Terrell Owens in 2004. Whiting had 16.5 sacks from 1998 to 2003 in Philadelphia.
Twenty years after the 1960 championship, the Eagles returned to the title game, although it was now a much bigger "ultimate game" experience. Once again, the Eagles were a team of overachievers led by a fiery quarterback obtained from the Rams and a vocal, hard-hitting veteran linebacker.
As good as he was, though, Jaworski was not Van Brocklin, and the battered Bill Bergey was not Bednarik. The Birds lost 27-10.
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Jersey Numbers in the 90s
1. Defensive tackle Corey Simon.
2. There were two. Smiley Creswell, for three games in 1985, and Reggie White.
3. Brandon Whiting wore number 98 and was traded with a draft pick for Terrell Owens in 2004. Whiting had 16.5 sacks from 1998 to 2003 in Philadelphia.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 29
This Day in Sports History- January 29
Campy
"I never want to quit playing ball. They'll have to cut this uniform off of me to get me out of it."
- Roy Campanella
Sixty years ago tonight, popular Brooklyn Dodger catcher Roy Campanella was involved in an early-morning auto accident on Long Island while returning home from the liquor store that he operated during baseball's off-season. The accident left "Campy" paralyzed from his neck down and brought to an end the three-time NL MVP's career.
Campy
"I never want to quit playing ball. They'll have to cut this uniform off of me to get me out of it."
- Roy Campanella
Sixty years ago tonight, popular Brooklyn Dodger catcher Roy Campanella was involved in an early-morning auto accident on Long Island while returning home from the liquor store that he operated during baseball's off-season. The accident left "Campy" paralyzed from his neck down and brought to an end the three-time NL MVP's career.
Sunday, January 28, 2018
CHIRPING BIRDS- SUPER BOWL THOUGHTS
Some random thoughts as we are exactly one week until Super Bowl LII... Eagles vs. Patriots:
* To beat the Pats next week the Eagles will need to overcome New England's mystic. The Patriots have won five Super Bowls, and are looking for six rings to tie the Steelers for the number of all-time Super Bowl victories. The Pats are so used to being in the big game, almost every February, that the hype shouldn't bother them.
As much as the Birds appear calm and down to business they are only human. Understandably, early nerves may be evident. It would help for Philly to get out to an early lead. The Eagles have gotten off to fast starts all season, so if the butterflies in the stomachs don't take over, they do have a good shot at jumping out in the first quarter. With the Birds' ground game and defense it would be nice to let New England and Tom Brady play catch-up. Only problem is, the Patriots thrive on coming back and erasing huge deficits to win.
There is a certain amount of invincibility to New England. You can get them down, but defeating them is another matter. There are a few keys, other than the obvious issues of not turning the ball over and limiting drive-killing penalties. Here are some thoughts:
- Stay aggressive.
As Jacksonville found out last week in the AFC Championship Game, you can't take your foot off the gas when playing the Patriots. Brady came back in the fourth quarter last week, as well as last February against Atlanta in the Super Bowl. Beta the champ, get revenge for 2005 and you are the new champs. Don't let up on offense. Don't simply sit on the ball if ahead. Doug Pederson, don't turtle-up. Stay as aggressive as you have been thru-out this season and during these playoffs.
- Get a consistent pass rush on Brady.
Knock if down if you can't sack Brady.When the Giants beat him twice in Super Bowls, their defensive line hassled Brady all game, Force him into mistakes. Make him hurry throws. Make him think and take that extra second before throwing the ball.
- Forget analytics.
All thru the playoffs the statistics and numbers have been against the Eagles. The media, so-called football experts and even Las Vegas have made the Eagles underdogs, mostly because of QB Nick Foles and stats which reflected that the Birds couldn't possibly win. Minnesota's defense was better...Atlanta's offense , with Matt Ryan and Julio Jones, would shred the Eagle defense...But all season, especially after Carson Wentz got hurt, the team did it on emotion. They defied the odds, a team of destiny, and along with their fans, willed themselves to win.
-Win the war in the trenches.
Philadelphia is better on both sides of the ball, in their offensive and defensive lines. Most games come down to the war in the trenches. This game shouldn't be any different. Control both lines and the eagles will have a real shot at winning. Protect Foles, open up gashing holes for Ajayi, Blount and clement to run thru, give Foles time to throw on offense. On defense, get after Brady with the front four pass rush. Make interceptions when given the chance. Pick-six touchdowns and field position can lead to victory. Blitz at times to keep Brady honest. Don't allow him to stand in the pocket and pick the secondary apart. Stop the Patriots' run game, as the Eagles have done all year. Force Brady to convert third-and-long yardage all night.
- Execute on special teams.
I'm not asking for TDs on kick-off or punt returns. That threat hasn't been there since Darren Sproles got hurt early in the season. Cleanly catch punts. Don't allow long returns by New England. Win the battle for field position. Give your offense a short field to work with, whereas you make Brady drive long distances. Kicker Jake Elliot needs to make all of his kicks- extra-points as well as field goals- as the game should be close down to the wire. Don't do anything stupid on special teams that will cost the Eagles the Super Bowl.
- Believe.
The Eagles earned the right to be in the Super Bowl with the almighty Patriots. Don't be intimidated by them, or by the hype or the game itself. Just play Eagle football. Believe you can win, Wentz or no Wentz .If you have any doubts, look back at the magical season. It's destiny that the Eagles win their fist-ever Super Bowl this year. Who says you can't "play with house money and not win?" Who know if Wentz will ever lead the Birds back to the Super Bowl/ Take advantage of an aging Patriot team that is good, but maybe not as good as in the past. Once on the same playing field, it's 0-0 The past is the past, and that includes all of the previous five Super Bowls that New England has won. The Cubs won- why not the Eagles?
* To beat the Pats next week the Eagles will need to overcome New England's mystic. The Patriots have won five Super Bowls, and are looking for six rings to tie the Steelers for the number of all-time Super Bowl victories. The Pats are so used to being in the big game, almost every February, that the hype shouldn't bother them.
As much as the Birds appear calm and down to business they are only human. Understandably, early nerves may be evident. It would help for Philly to get out to an early lead. The Eagles have gotten off to fast starts all season, so if the butterflies in the stomachs don't take over, they do have a good shot at jumping out in the first quarter. With the Birds' ground game and defense it would be nice to let New England and Tom Brady play catch-up. Only problem is, the Patriots thrive on coming back and erasing huge deficits to win.
There is a certain amount of invincibility to New England. You can get them down, but defeating them is another matter. There are a few keys, other than the obvious issues of not turning the ball over and limiting drive-killing penalties. Here are some thoughts:
- Stay aggressive.
As Jacksonville found out last week in the AFC Championship Game, you can't take your foot off the gas when playing the Patriots. Brady came back in the fourth quarter last week, as well as last February against Atlanta in the Super Bowl. Beta the champ, get revenge for 2005 and you are the new champs. Don't let up on offense. Don't simply sit on the ball if ahead. Doug Pederson, don't turtle-up. Stay as aggressive as you have been thru-out this season and during these playoffs.
- Get a consistent pass rush on Brady.
Knock if down if you can't sack Brady.When the Giants beat him twice in Super Bowls, their defensive line hassled Brady all game, Force him into mistakes. Make him hurry throws. Make him think and take that extra second before throwing the ball.
- Forget analytics.
All thru the playoffs the statistics and numbers have been against the Eagles. The media, so-called football experts and even Las Vegas have made the Eagles underdogs, mostly because of QB Nick Foles and stats which reflected that the Birds couldn't possibly win. Minnesota's defense was better...Atlanta's offense , with Matt Ryan and Julio Jones, would shred the Eagle defense...But all season, especially after Carson Wentz got hurt, the team did it on emotion. They defied the odds, a team of destiny, and along with their fans, willed themselves to win.
-Win the war in the trenches.
Philadelphia is better on both sides of the ball, in their offensive and defensive lines. Most games come down to the war in the trenches. This game shouldn't be any different. Control both lines and the eagles will have a real shot at winning. Protect Foles, open up gashing holes for Ajayi, Blount and clement to run thru, give Foles time to throw on offense. On defense, get after Brady with the front four pass rush. Make interceptions when given the chance. Pick-six touchdowns and field position can lead to victory. Blitz at times to keep Brady honest. Don't allow him to stand in the pocket and pick the secondary apart. Stop the Patriots' run game, as the Eagles have done all year. Force Brady to convert third-and-long yardage all night.
- Execute on special teams.
I'm not asking for TDs on kick-off or punt returns. That threat hasn't been there since Darren Sproles got hurt early in the season. Cleanly catch punts. Don't allow long returns by New England. Win the battle for field position. Give your offense a short field to work with, whereas you make Brady drive long distances. Kicker Jake Elliot needs to make all of his kicks- extra-points as well as field goals- as the game should be close down to the wire. Don't do anything stupid on special teams that will cost the Eagles the Super Bowl.
- Believe.
The Eagles earned the right to be in the Super Bowl with the almighty Patriots. Don't be intimidated by them, or by the hype or the game itself. Just play Eagle football. Believe you can win, Wentz or no Wentz .If you have any doubts, look back at the magical season. It's destiny that the Eagles win their fist-ever Super Bowl this year. Who says you can't "play with house money and not win?" Who know if Wentz will ever lead the Birds back to the Super Bowl/ Take advantage of an aging Patriot team that is good, but maybe not as good as in the past. Once on the same playing field, it's 0-0 The past is the past, and that includes all of the previous five Super Bowls that New England has won. The Cubs won- why not the Eagles?
PHILLIES PHODDER-K-ROD, PHILS-ORIOLES
* The Phillies signed 35-year-old reliever Francisco Rodriguez, aka K-Rod, to a minor league contract. He will go to spring training and try to make the 40-man roster.
K-Rod is fourth all-time on the saves list. He has lost something off his once blazing fastball, but reinvented himself the last few years, having a solid season with the Tigers before being released by Detroit last summer.
For the Phils it seems like a no-lose deal. If K-Rod makes the team, so much the better. He can be a closer, while Hector Neris shifts back to 8th-inning set-up guy, and Pat Neshek has the 7th inning, where he has been so effective.
With spring training just around the corner, the team has work to do. The outfield is crowded with four everyday outfielders vying for playing time in Altherr, Herrera, Hoskins and Williams. First baseman Tommy Joseph remains on the team, despite having no position to play, with the signing of Carlos Santana. Catching is also a position that needs to be addressed, as three back stoppers- Rupp, Knapp and Alfaro- compete for spots on the roster.
Most of all, aside from Aaron Nola, the starting pitching staff is up for grabs. One or two veteran hurlers would stabilize the young staff. Reports are that Yu Darvish and Alex Cobb could still be Phillies before the season starts.
Rightfully so, the local sports scene has been all-Eagles with their Super Bowl run. But after February 4, eyes will turn to Florida and spring training. Summer is on the horizon and Philly's baseball team, led by young stars like Hoskins, will try to take center stage, I say try because after the Eagles win the Super Bowl next Sunday, there will be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration and parade and all the joy that goes with a championship. Both the Flyers and Sixers are playing well and should have playoff runs. So the Phils will have to fight for attention and must do something special to grab the local headlines this spring.
* My girlfriend, Holly, surprised me on our 3rd anniversary by giving me tickets to the Phillies- Orioles game in Baltimore on Wednesday, May 16. It's a 12:35 afternoon game and we are meeting my oldest brother jIm, who lives in Maryland.
I have never been to Oriole Park at Camden Yards before. Camden Yards was the very first "new" ballpark built in the early 90s which left the cookie-cutter, multi-purpose stadium behind,, and started the more unique baseball park feel. Future ballparks like Citizens Bank Park were built with Camden yards in mind. It is the stadium which started it all.
I'm looking forward to seeing the park, but also the famous B&O Warehouse over the right field fence, which sits in an area like Ashburn Alley, which sells concessions and souvenirs. Boog's Bar-B-Que is the original rib/steak place like Bull's-Bar-B-Que in Philadelphia.
It's also the first time I will ever be in an enemy ballpark. So often, especially in the last several years, we see Mets fans or Cardinal fans, or Red Sox Nation invade CBP. Jerseys other than red are splashed thru-out the crowd. Cub fans tried to take over the stadium last August when they came in. Dodger fans always are vocal. Yankee fans will come down the turnpike this June when the Yanks visit for the first time in years.
As a loyal Phillies fan, you feel like telling these bums to go back home, this is our place. Now the shoe is on the other foot, as i'm sure I'll be decked out in Phils' gear in a Baltimore park. But I was there several years ago when vocal Oriole supporters made the trek up I-95 to Philly, so it's to be expected that I won't be alone in Camden Yards, rooting for the Fightin' Phils.
Otherwise, it will be nice to take in the Inner Harbor and all the food and sights around Baltimore. Hopefully it's a warm spring afternoon and the Phillies are playing well. it will be a good chance to check out what may be future Phille Manny Machado at third base.
For the record, the Orioles do return the favor and visit Citizens Bank Park for a two-game series on July 3-4.
K-Rod is fourth all-time on the saves list. He has lost something off his once blazing fastball, but reinvented himself the last few years, having a solid season with the Tigers before being released by Detroit last summer.
For the Phils it seems like a no-lose deal. If K-Rod makes the team, so much the better. He can be a closer, while Hector Neris shifts back to 8th-inning set-up guy, and Pat Neshek has the 7th inning, where he has been so effective.
With spring training just around the corner, the team has work to do. The outfield is crowded with four everyday outfielders vying for playing time in Altherr, Herrera, Hoskins and Williams. First baseman Tommy Joseph remains on the team, despite having no position to play, with the signing of Carlos Santana. Catching is also a position that needs to be addressed, as three back stoppers- Rupp, Knapp and Alfaro- compete for spots on the roster.
Most of all, aside from Aaron Nola, the starting pitching staff is up for grabs. One or two veteran hurlers would stabilize the young staff. Reports are that Yu Darvish and Alex Cobb could still be Phillies before the season starts.
Rightfully so, the local sports scene has been all-Eagles with their Super Bowl run. But after February 4, eyes will turn to Florida and spring training. Summer is on the horizon and Philly's baseball team, led by young stars like Hoskins, will try to take center stage, I say try because after the Eagles win the Super Bowl next Sunday, there will be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration and parade and all the joy that goes with a championship. Both the Flyers and Sixers are playing well and should have playoff runs. So the Phils will have to fight for attention and must do something special to grab the local headlines this spring.
* My girlfriend, Holly, surprised me on our 3rd anniversary by giving me tickets to the Phillies- Orioles game in Baltimore on Wednesday, May 16. It's a 12:35 afternoon game and we are meeting my oldest brother jIm, who lives in Maryland.
I have never been to Oriole Park at Camden Yards before. Camden Yards was the very first "new" ballpark built in the early 90s which left the cookie-cutter, multi-purpose stadium behind,, and started the more unique baseball park feel. Future ballparks like Citizens Bank Park were built with Camden yards in mind. It is the stadium which started it all.
I'm looking forward to seeing the park, but also the famous B&O Warehouse over the right field fence, which sits in an area like Ashburn Alley, which sells concessions and souvenirs. Boog's Bar-B-Que is the original rib/steak place like Bull's-Bar-B-Que in Philadelphia.
It's also the first time I will ever be in an enemy ballpark. So often, especially in the last several years, we see Mets fans or Cardinal fans, or Red Sox Nation invade CBP. Jerseys other than red are splashed thru-out the crowd. Cub fans tried to take over the stadium last August when they came in. Dodger fans always are vocal. Yankee fans will come down the turnpike this June when the Yanks visit for the first time in years.
As a loyal Phillies fan, you feel like telling these bums to go back home, this is our place. Now the shoe is on the other foot, as i'm sure I'll be decked out in Phils' gear in a Baltimore park. But I was there several years ago when vocal Oriole supporters made the trek up I-95 to Philly, so it's to be expected that I won't be alone in Camden Yards, rooting for the Fightin' Phils.
Otherwise, it will be nice to take in the Inner Harbor and all the food and sights around Baltimore. Hopefully it's a warm spring afternoon and the Phillies are playing well. it will be a good chance to check out what may be future Phille Manny Machado at third base.
For the record, the Orioles do return the favor and visit Citizens Bank Park for a two-game series on July 3-4.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's quiz- Jersey Numbers in the 90s
1. What sixth overall draft pick from Florida State who wore number 90 recorded all 32 of his NFL sacks in Philadelphia?
2. Number 92 has been worn by how many Eagles?
3. What defensive end who wore number 98 was traded for Terrell Owens?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Injuries, Bad Luck and What Might Have Been-
1. Mike Quick
2. Andy Harmon
3. Randall Cunningham
1. What sixth overall draft pick from Florida State who wore number 90 recorded all 32 of his NFL sacks in Philadelphia?
2. Number 92 has been worn by how many Eagles?
3. What defensive end who wore number 98 was traded for Terrell Owens?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Injuries, Bad Luck and What Might Have Been-
1. Mike Quick
2. Andy Harmon
3. Randall Cunningham
Saturday, January 27, 2018
MOVIE REVIEW- HOSTILES
Hostiles- ** stars ( out of four)
One doesn't find a good, old-fashioned Western out in the movies anymore. So I was excited to see the new film, Hostiles, last night at King of Prussia.
Hostiles stars Christian Beal as Capt. Blocker, a lifelong soldier based in circa 1890 fort in New Mexico. Blocker has been thru hell during his military service, mostly fighting Indians He hates them, and has become a bitter, angry guy. He is given one of his final duties before he retires. He is assigned to escort a dying Indian chief named Yellow Hawk and his family back to his homeland in Montana to die.
While this is going on, a rancher and almost all of his family are massacred on the frontier by a renegade band of Comanche braves. Children and the infant are murdered while the mother hides in the nearby woods and escapes. Along the way to Montana, Blockner comes upon the burned settlement and rescues the grieving woman, who is still holding her wrapped-up dead baby.
It is graphic, violent stuff, right form the start. The entire movie is somber and grim, with no let-up. It's realistic in many ways- dialogue, costumes, etc...The scenery and photography are gorgeous.
Bale is really good as Blocker. So is the rest of the cast, including the beautiful, British,Meryle Streep -lookalike Rosamund Pike.
It's too long- 135 minutes to be exact. The movie drags in the middle. It seems all the action there is during one segment is riding and camping, riding and camping. But it does hold one's interest, as I was waiting to see what would happen to this traveling band of soldiers, convicts and Native Americans.
Speaking of which, the parts of the Native Americans is underwritten, but I got it, all about the discrimination and their plight.It's a good character study on all accounts, especially the conflicting emotions of Beal's character.
Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie a 72% rating. I liked the film more than my girlfriend did. I agreed with her that all the death and killing that goes on thru-out the movie is a turn-off. By the end, you begged for some laughter, a smile. This movie is compelling but not much fun.
The ending is a surprise and has a twist. Even though I liked the gritty film, how can I recommend it? To whom? Not for kids. Not for a good time at the movies. Only if your'e looking for a gripping drama would I advise you to see Hostiles.
The performances are fine. The movie won't win any major awards and will move swiftly to cable and DVD status. I don't think Hostiles will do well at the Box Office, as word of mouth won't take this film very far.
The theater I saw Hostiles at in King of Prussia was not half-full, with few young people and more mature, older faces in the spare crowd. That's my assessment of Hostiles. There will be some interest in a long Western, ala The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. But generally, Hostiles will play out and fade away but will be hard to forget.
One doesn't find a good, old-fashioned Western out in the movies anymore. So I was excited to see the new film, Hostiles, last night at King of Prussia.
Hostiles stars Christian Beal as Capt. Blocker, a lifelong soldier based in circa 1890 fort in New Mexico. Blocker has been thru hell during his military service, mostly fighting Indians He hates them, and has become a bitter, angry guy. He is given one of his final duties before he retires. He is assigned to escort a dying Indian chief named Yellow Hawk and his family back to his homeland in Montana to die.
While this is going on, a rancher and almost all of his family are massacred on the frontier by a renegade band of Comanche braves. Children and the infant are murdered while the mother hides in the nearby woods and escapes. Along the way to Montana, Blockner comes upon the burned settlement and rescues the grieving woman, who is still holding her wrapped-up dead baby.
It is graphic, violent stuff, right form the start. The entire movie is somber and grim, with no let-up. It's realistic in many ways- dialogue, costumes, etc...The scenery and photography are gorgeous.
Bale is really good as Blocker. So is the rest of the cast, including the beautiful, British,Meryle Streep -lookalike Rosamund Pike.
It's too long- 135 minutes to be exact. The movie drags in the middle. It seems all the action there is during one segment is riding and camping, riding and camping. But it does hold one's interest, as I was waiting to see what would happen to this traveling band of soldiers, convicts and Native Americans.
Speaking of which, the parts of the Native Americans is underwritten, but I got it, all about the discrimination and their plight.It's a good character study on all accounts, especially the conflicting emotions of Beal's character.
Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie a 72% rating. I liked the film more than my girlfriend did. I agreed with her that all the death and killing that goes on thru-out the movie is a turn-off. By the end, you begged for some laughter, a smile. This movie is compelling but not much fun.
The ending is a surprise and has a twist. Even though I liked the gritty film, how can I recommend it? To whom? Not for kids. Not for a good time at the movies. Only if your'e looking for a gripping drama would I advise you to see Hostiles.
The performances are fine. The movie won't win any major awards and will move swiftly to cable and DVD status. I don't think Hostiles will do well at the Box Office, as word of mouth won't take this film very far.
The theater I saw Hostiles at in King of Prussia was not half-full, with few young people and more mature, older faces in the spare crowd. That's my assessment of Hostiles. There will be some interest in a long Western, ala The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. But generally, Hostiles will play out and fade away but will be hard to forget.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS, BASEBALL HOT STOVE
* Eagle Notes:
* The defensive has not allowed a single point in the second half of it's two playoff games.
* Nick Foles has played great. Playing time has helped him to excel. Plus he's not turning the ball over. His passes have mostly been short and accurate, but last week against the vikings, Foles went down the field, most notably throwing touchdown passes to Alshon Jeffrey and Torry Smith.He has done more then mere manage games- he has won them.
Going up against Tom Brady in the Super bowl next week may seem like a mismatch, but if the Eagle defensive line gets after Brady, sacking him, hurrying him and forcing him into mistakes, the gap between Greatest Quarterback of All-Time and back-up QB may not be so wide.
That's where the Birds can win this game- in the trenches, where most football games are won. Philly has the better offensive and defensive lines. Without Brady, the Eagles would clearly be the better team. Brady makes that much of a difference. Contain Brady and suddenly the Patriots don't seem so formidable.
Win or lose, all of New England's previous Super Bowl appearances have been close games. I'll make my prediction later this week, but if the Eagles are getting 5 or so points, why not take them? If not to win, then to keep it close? The Patriots' history in Super Bowls is tight games- why should this one be different?
* Penalties, like turnovers, will be key. The Eagles committed fat too many penalties during the season, ranking 21st on the penalty list. Thru the first three quarters of the Minnesota game, there were virtually no penalties on either side. The Birds won the turnover battle and crushed the Vikings on the scoreboard.
New England did not have a single penalty called against them in their AFC Championship game vs. Jacksonville, plus they benefited by a few advantageous calls against the Jaguars which helped the Pats comeback win.
So, will the refs let them play in the Super Bowl, or will they call the game tightly? Will the Pats use their reputation to get th calls? Can the Birds play mistake-free football as they did in the NFC Championship game?
***************************************************************************
The Sixers destroyed the Spurs in San Antonio last night by 19 points, thus sweeping the season series with the Spurs. With the victory, the 76'ers move into the sixth slot in the Eastern Conference playoff standings. Philly travels to Oklahoma City Sunday night for the second game of their four-game road trip.
***************************************************************************
The Miami Marlins continue to purge their roster as they recently traded away outfielder Christian Yelich ( a player the Phillies love) to the Milwaukee Brewers for four prospects. The Brewers are going for it this year in National League Central. After leading a good deal of the summer last year, Milwaukee finally faded and the Cubs took control of the division.
In addition to Yelich, the Brew Crew also signed free agent Lorenzo Cain. Cain and Yelich give Milwaukee two more young, talented players top add their their young core.
Meanwhile, Miami is tanking after Derek Jeter and his gang purchased the Miami franchise. They have traded away stars Stanton, Ozuna and Gordon. Now Yelich. After Alex Fernandez was killed in a tragic accident two years ago, the Marlin organization has taken a nose-dive.
They, along with the Pittsburgh Pirates, will suck in 2018 and beyond.
With pitching help, the Phillies may be able to contend with Washington for the NL East division, or at least challenge for one of the wild card spots.Atlanta is in flux, between aging veterans and their core of young , promising prospects. The Mets' fortunes hinge on their fragile pitching staff. The Phils should not finish in the basement of the East this summer, thanks to the Marlins.
* The defensive has not allowed a single point in the second half of it's two playoff games.
* Nick Foles has played great. Playing time has helped him to excel. Plus he's not turning the ball over. His passes have mostly been short and accurate, but last week against the vikings, Foles went down the field, most notably throwing touchdown passes to Alshon Jeffrey and Torry Smith.He has done more then mere manage games- he has won them.
Going up against Tom Brady in the Super bowl next week may seem like a mismatch, but if the Eagle defensive line gets after Brady, sacking him, hurrying him and forcing him into mistakes, the gap between Greatest Quarterback of All-Time and back-up QB may not be so wide.
That's where the Birds can win this game- in the trenches, where most football games are won. Philly has the better offensive and defensive lines. Without Brady, the Eagles would clearly be the better team. Brady makes that much of a difference. Contain Brady and suddenly the Patriots don't seem so formidable.
Win or lose, all of New England's previous Super Bowl appearances have been close games. I'll make my prediction later this week, but if the Eagles are getting 5 or so points, why not take them? If not to win, then to keep it close? The Patriots' history in Super Bowls is tight games- why should this one be different?
* Penalties, like turnovers, will be key. The Eagles committed fat too many penalties during the season, ranking 21st on the penalty list. Thru the first three quarters of the Minnesota game, there were virtually no penalties on either side. The Birds won the turnover battle and crushed the Vikings on the scoreboard.
New England did not have a single penalty called against them in their AFC Championship game vs. Jacksonville, plus they benefited by a few advantageous calls against the Jaguars which helped the Pats comeback win.
So, will the refs let them play in the Super Bowl, or will they call the game tightly? Will the Pats use their reputation to get th calls? Can the Birds play mistake-free football as they did in the NFC Championship game?
***************************************************************************
The Sixers destroyed the Spurs in San Antonio last night by 19 points, thus sweeping the season series with the Spurs. With the victory, the 76'ers move into the sixth slot in the Eastern Conference playoff standings. Philly travels to Oklahoma City Sunday night for the second game of their four-game road trip.
***************************************************************************
The Miami Marlins continue to purge their roster as they recently traded away outfielder Christian Yelich ( a player the Phillies love) to the Milwaukee Brewers for four prospects. The Brewers are going for it this year in National League Central. After leading a good deal of the summer last year, Milwaukee finally faded and the Cubs took control of the division.
In addition to Yelich, the Brew Crew also signed free agent Lorenzo Cain. Cain and Yelich give Milwaukee two more young, talented players top add their their young core.
Meanwhile, Miami is tanking after Derek Jeter and his gang purchased the Miami franchise. They have traded away stars Stanton, Ozuna and Gordon. Now Yelich. After Alex Fernandez was killed in a tragic accident two years ago, the Marlin organization has taken a nose-dive.
They, along with the Pittsburgh Pirates, will suck in 2018 and beyond.
With pitching help, the Phillies may be able to contend with Washington for the NL East division, or at least challenge for one of the wild card spots.Atlanta is in flux, between aging veterans and their core of young , promising prospects. The Mets' fortunes hinge on their fragile pitching staff. The Phils should not finish in the basement of the East this summer, thanks to the Marlins.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's quiz- Injuries, Bad Luck and What Might Have Been-
1. What All-Pro receiver broke his ankle one year, had knee problems the next and leg problems the year after that to end his career?
2. What defensive tackle signed a $ 7.5 million contract extension before tearing up his knee in the preseason and was forced to retire the following season after several unsuccessful tries to return?
3. Who was the quarterback who injured his knee on opening day and then broke his leg in the fourth game two years later?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz-
1. Invincible, the story of number 83, Vince Papale.
2. Hank Baskett
3. John Spagnola
1. What All-Pro receiver broke his ankle one year, had knee problems the next and leg problems the year after that to end his career?
2. What defensive tackle signed a $ 7.5 million contract extension before tearing up his knee in the preseason and was forced to retire the following season after several unsuccessful tries to return?
3. Who was the quarterback who injured his knee on opening day and then broke his leg in the fourth game two years later?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz-
1. Invincible, the story of number 83, Vince Papale.
2. Hank Baskett
3. John Spagnola
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 27-28
Super Bowl Trivia
Which Super Bowl was the first to be played indoors?
Answer:
Forty years ago, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Denver "Orange Crush" Broncos 27-10 in Super Bowl XII held at the Louisiana Superdome.
The first football championship game to be held indoors occurred in 1932, when a snowstorm forced the one-game playoff for the 1932 NFL championship scheduled to be played at Wrigley Field into the 80-yard dirt field confines of Chicago Stadium. A controversial halfback pass from Bronco Nagurski to Red Grange helped Chicago beat the Portsmouth Spartans, 9-0.
Which Super Bowl was the first to be played indoors?
Answer:
Forty years ago, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Denver "Orange Crush" Broncos 27-10 in Super Bowl XII held at the Louisiana Superdome.
The first football championship game to be held indoors occurred in 1932, when a snowstorm forced the one-game playoff for the 1932 NFL championship scheduled to be played at Wrigley Field into the 80-yard dirt field confines of Chicago Stadium. A controversial halfback pass from Bronco Nagurski to Red Grange helped Chicago beat the Portsmouth Spartans, 9-0.
Friday, January 26, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, EAGLES
* The Flyers lost to the best team in hockey last night at the Wells Fargo Center, losing to Tampa Bay 5-1. The Lightning avenged an earlier loss to the Orange and Black. Eagles coach Doug Pederson was honored before the game, dropping the ceremonial first puck. The Flyers are off until next Wednesday, when they again travel to Washington to take on the Caps.
**************************************************************************
* Several Eagle fans recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa and did an Eagle cheer at the top of the mountain. They videoed the chant at the summit, which went viral.
Things are crazy now, but should be even crazier next week, as the games inches closer. Imagine the parties next weekend. The bars will be jam-packed. The restaurants will be full. Super Bowl Sunday is always a big celebration day, but with the Eagles in the big game, the area will be nuts. I'm sure the supermarkets will be crowded, as people stock up on food for the game
The weather forecast is bitterly cold, as an arctic blast invades the country next weekend. Fans will hunker down, eat and enjoy the game. Alcohol will flow. Bets will be made. And after the Eagles win, Sunday night will be one to remember.
Fans will be flooding onto Broad Street and through-out the Delaware Valley . Babies will be conceived. Work will be missed on Monday. Kids at school will be singing the Eagle fight song next week. Residents at nursing homes will have much to look forward to, hanging on the Birds on TV. Prayers will be sent to heaven .
It's the first story on the nightly news. It's the topic of conversation at water coolers in offices all around the area, the talk between strangers who make eye-contact and simply proclaim "Go Birds!"
It's a fun time in our world, whether your'e a sports fan or not. The Sixers and Flyers are on the back-burner until February 5. The Phillies don't start spring training until Valentine's Day. It's all-Eagles, all the time on sports radio. Green adorns the building in Center City Philadelphia. Ex-players and Philly celebrities are weighing in on the game, rooting for the Birds. It's exciting and breaks up our post- holiday blues, our winter doldrums and the boredom of our everyday life.
I think of die-hard Eagle fans who have passed away, including my dad. I think of how he would've loved to be around during this special time. I think of all the losing seasons he endured as a Philly fan, and the redemption he would feel if the Birds actually won a Super Bowl.
And we still have nine days to go until kick-off.
* Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones must be getting senile. When asked for a comment on the Eagles' Super Bowl run, he stumbled, calling Nick Foles "Kolb" ( former Eagle QB Kevin Kolb?), then calling him "Fulk."
I'm really glad Jones is running the Cowboys, not only as owner but as general manager. As long as Jones is calling the shots in Dallas we won't have to worry about the hated Cowboys being anywhere near the Super Bowl for a long time to come.
Meanwhile the Giants named former Eagle coach and offensive coordinator of the Vikings Pat Schurmer their new head coach. Good luck there. New York hires yet another loser. What the G-men do with the overall No. 2 pick in the spring draft iwll be interesting.
**************************************************************************
* Several Eagle fans recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa and did an Eagle cheer at the top of the mountain. They videoed the chant at the summit, which went viral.
Things are crazy now, but should be even crazier next week, as the games inches closer. Imagine the parties next weekend. The bars will be jam-packed. The restaurants will be full. Super Bowl Sunday is always a big celebration day, but with the Eagles in the big game, the area will be nuts. I'm sure the supermarkets will be crowded, as people stock up on food for the game
The weather forecast is bitterly cold, as an arctic blast invades the country next weekend. Fans will hunker down, eat and enjoy the game. Alcohol will flow. Bets will be made. And after the Eagles win, Sunday night will be one to remember.
Fans will be flooding onto Broad Street and through-out the Delaware Valley . Babies will be conceived. Work will be missed on Monday. Kids at school will be singing the Eagle fight song next week. Residents at nursing homes will have much to look forward to, hanging on the Birds on TV. Prayers will be sent to heaven .
It's the first story on the nightly news. It's the topic of conversation at water coolers in offices all around the area, the talk between strangers who make eye-contact and simply proclaim "Go Birds!"
It's a fun time in our world, whether your'e a sports fan or not. The Sixers and Flyers are on the back-burner until February 5. The Phillies don't start spring training until Valentine's Day. It's all-Eagles, all the time on sports radio. Green adorns the building in Center City Philadelphia. Ex-players and Philly celebrities are weighing in on the game, rooting for the Birds. It's exciting and breaks up our post- holiday blues, our winter doldrums and the boredom of our everyday life.
I think of die-hard Eagle fans who have passed away, including my dad. I think of how he would've loved to be around during this special time. I think of all the losing seasons he endured as a Philly fan, and the redemption he would feel if the Birds actually won a Super Bowl.
And we still have nine days to go until kick-off.
* Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones must be getting senile. When asked for a comment on the Eagles' Super Bowl run, he stumbled, calling Nick Foles "Kolb" ( former Eagle QB Kevin Kolb?), then calling him "Fulk."
I'm really glad Jones is running the Cowboys, not only as owner but as general manager. As long as Jones is calling the shots in Dallas we won't have to worry about the hated Cowboys being anywhere near the Super Bowl for a long time to come.
Meanwhile the Giants named former Eagle coach and offensive coordinator of the Vikings Pat Schurmer their new head coach. Good luck there. New York hires yet another loser. What the G-men do with the overall No. 2 pick in the spring draft iwll be interesting.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's topic: Eagle Jersey Numbers in the 80s-
1. What movie was inspired by an Eagle who wore number 83?
2. He wore number 84, but was more famous as a reality TV star married to a Playboy model. Who was this receiver who is best remembered in the NFL for failing to recover an onside kick in the Super Bowl?
3. What Yale tight end wore number 88 in Philadelphia?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagle Undrafted Free Agents
1. Bucko Kilroy , 13 years, from 1943 to 1955.
2. Greg Lewis
3. Vince Papale
1. What movie was inspired by an Eagle who wore number 83?
2. He wore number 84, but was more famous as a reality TV star married to a Playboy model. Who was this receiver who is best remembered in the NFL for failing to recover an onside kick in the Super Bowl?
3. What Yale tight end wore number 88 in Philadelphia?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagle Undrafted Free Agents
1. Bucko Kilroy , 13 years, from 1943 to 1955.
2. Greg Lewis
3. Vince Papale
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 26
"There are no office hours for champions."
- Paul W. "Bear" Bryant
Thirty-five years ago today, Paul "Bear" Bryant died less than a month after he coached his final game defeating Illinois in the Liberty bowl, 21-15, for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He ended his career as the most successful coach in history at that time, compiling a career record of 323-85-17 and winning six national championship.
- Paul W. "Bear" Bryant
Thirty-five years ago today, Paul "Bear" Bryant died less than a month after he coached his final game defeating Illinois in the Liberty bowl, 21-15, for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He ended his career as the most successful coach in history at that time, compiling a career record of 323-85-17 and winning six national championship.
Thursday, January 25, 2018
THE SUPER BOWL PREDICTION POOL
For amusement purposes only. Enlarge and distribute at your Super Bowl party.
1. National Anthem total/time ( 1:37) Over_____ Under ____
2. Coin toss result Heads____ Tails_____
3. First team to score___________________________________________
4. A safety will occur Yes________ No______
5. TD in last two minutes of first half Yes______ No_______
6. Points scored in last two minutes of game Yes_____ No_____
7. Longest field goal over/under 40 yards Over_____ Under_____
8. Punt/KO return for TD Yes_____ No_____
9. Interception return for TD Yes_____ No_____
10. Successful two-point conversion Yes______ No______
11. MVP is a quarterback Yes_____ No______
Receive two points for each correct prediction.
Tiebreaker- Total points scored______
Name:____________________________________________
Final points- ______________________________
1. National Anthem total/time ( 1:37) Over_____ Under ____
2. Coin toss result Heads____ Tails_____
3. First team to score___________________________________________
4. A safety will occur Yes________ No______
5. TD in last two minutes of first half Yes______ No_______
6. Points scored in last two minutes of game Yes_____ No_____
7. Longest field goal over/under 40 yards Over_____ Under_____
8. Punt/KO return for TD Yes_____ No_____
9. Interception return for TD Yes_____ No_____
10. Successful two-point conversion Yes______ No______
11. MVP is a quarterback Yes_____ No______
Receive two points for each correct prediction.
Tiebreaker- Total points scored______
Name:____________________________________________
Final points- ______________________________
IN THE NEWS- TRUMP SIGNS FAMILY CAREGIVERS ACT
Another timely article from disability Scoop..
A new law will require the federal government to develop a national strategy to address the needs of family caregivers, including those supporting people with developmental disabilities.
President Donald Trump signed legislation this week known as the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage, or RAISE Family Caregivers Act.
The law calls for the secretary of health and human services to establish a national plan to "recognize and support family caregivers ' within 18 months. The plan is supposed to include recommendations for federal, state and local governments as well as health care and long-term services and supports providers. The strategy is to be updated every other year.
Additionally, the legislation also creates a family care giving advisory council comprised of federal officials and stakeholders in the community to guide the strategy's development and advise the secretary and other members of government on how to support the more than 40 million family caregivers across the country.
The bipartisan legislation received broad support from disability advocacy groups including the The Arc, the Autism Society, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Easterseals and United Cerebral Palsy, among others.
"Most people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our nation live with family caregivers, and nearly 900,000 of these family caregivers are over the age of 60. For many individuals with I/DD, their caregivers mean a life in the community with their family and friends," said Peter Berns, CEO of The Arc. "Each vote for this bill was a vote to support caregivers so that they can continue in their critical roles in supporting their loved ones."
A new law will require the federal government to develop a national strategy to address the needs of family caregivers, including those supporting people with developmental disabilities.
President Donald Trump signed legislation this week known as the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage, or RAISE Family Caregivers Act.
The law calls for the secretary of health and human services to establish a national plan to "recognize and support family caregivers ' within 18 months. The plan is supposed to include recommendations for federal, state and local governments as well as health care and long-term services and supports providers. The strategy is to be updated every other year.
Additionally, the legislation also creates a family care giving advisory council comprised of federal officials and stakeholders in the community to guide the strategy's development and advise the secretary and other members of government on how to support the more than 40 million family caregivers across the country.
The bipartisan legislation received broad support from disability advocacy groups including the The Arc, the Autism Society, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Easterseals and United Cerebral Palsy, among others.
"Most people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our nation live with family caregivers, and nearly 900,000 of these family caregivers are over the age of 60. For many individuals with I/DD, their caregivers mean a life in the community with their family and friends," said Peter Berns, CEO of The Arc. "Each vote for this bill was a vote to support caregivers so that they can continue in their critical roles in supporting their loved ones."
EALES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's quiz topic- Eagle Undrafted Free Agents
1. What undrafted free agent lasted the longest with the team?
2. What undrafted free agent caught a touchdown pass in the Super Bowl?
3. What undrafted free agent has been portrayed by Mark Wahlberg in a biopic?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- The Redskins-
1. Redskins. Kuharich went 26-32-2 from 1954-1958 with Washington, while Joe went 28-41-1 from 1964-1968 with the Eagles.
2. Defensive end N.D. Kalu returned an interception of a Patrick Ramsey pass 15 yards for the winning touchdown in the third game the Eagles played at brand-new Lincoln Financial Field in 2003.
3. Washington leads the overall series, 76 wins for the Eagles, 86 wins for the Redskins, with 6 ties.
1. What undrafted free agent lasted the longest with the team?
2. What undrafted free agent caught a touchdown pass in the Super Bowl?
3. What undrafted free agent has been portrayed by Mark Wahlberg in a biopic?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- The Redskins-
1. Redskins. Kuharich went 26-32-2 from 1954-1958 with Washington, while Joe went 28-41-1 from 1964-1968 with the Eagles.
2. Defensive end N.D. Kalu returned an interception of a Patrick Ramsey pass 15 yards for the winning touchdown in the third game the Eagles played at brand-new Lincoln Financial Field in 2003.
3. Washington leads the overall series, 76 wins for the Eagles, 86 wins for the Redskins, with 6 ties.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS, PHILLIES
I have an Eco Alexia and love it. I got it over two years ago when Amazon first introduced it. I use it to play music, set timers and alarms, for facts and trivia, games and knowledge. Who knew that a personal assistant would be such a part of life now?
Well, ask Alexia who will iwn the Super Bowl and she will tell you: the Eagles. She likes their underdog status, their relentless defense and momentum. She will even do the Eagle chant for you.
I trust Alexia over Vegas. The Birds are going to win!
Speaking of which, someone walked into the MGM casino in Las Vegas yesterday and put down a $10 million bet on the Eagles to win. I would think someone with that kind of money to wager must know something. That large of a bet immediately dropped the line form 5 1/2 to 4 1/2 for New England.
Super Bowls are normally tight affairs, three points or less. so for the Birds to be such underdogs is unusual. But Vegas has been wrong on the Eagles through-out the playoffs, so why be different now?
******************************************************************************
The Sixers beat the Chicago Bulls last night, as Ben Simmons scored a triple-double. If they hadn't blown so many big leads against really good teams this season, the team would be higher in the Eastern Conference. Still, there's hope. You have to get those big leads. Now the 76'ers need to learn how to finish games.They start a four-game road trip this Friday at San Antonio.
**************************************************************************
Former Phillie and overall good guy Jim Thome was elected into baseball's Hall of Fame yesterday on the first ballot. He deserves it. He didn't play long for the Phils, but he was the big free signing when the Phillies moved from the Vet to Citizens Bank Park. He may have held back Ryan Howard an extra year in the minors, but Thome brought professionalism and a winning attitude to the Philly clubhouse. I'm glad he made it to the Hall this summer.
Well, ask Alexia who will iwn the Super Bowl and she will tell you: the Eagles. She likes their underdog status, their relentless defense and momentum. She will even do the Eagle chant for you.
I trust Alexia over Vegas. The Birds are going to win!
Speaking of which, someone walked into the MGM casino in Las Vegas yesterday and put down a $10 million bet on the Eagles to win. I would think someone with that kind of money to wager must know something. That large of a bet immediately dropped the line form 5 1/2 to 4 1/2 for New England.
Super Bowls are normally tight affairs, three points or less. so for the Birds to be such underdogs is unusual. But Vegas has been wrong on the Eagles through-out the playoffs, so why be different now?
******************************************************************************
The Sixers beat the Chicago Bulls last night, as Ben Simmons scored a triple-double. If they hadn't blown so many big leads against really good teams this season, the team would be higher in the Eastern Conference. Still, there's hope. You have to get those big leads. Now the 76'ers need to learn how to finish games.They start a four-game road trip this Friday at San Antonio.
**************************************************************************
Former Phillie and overall good guy Jim Thome was elected into baseball's Hall of Fame yesterday on the first ballot. He deserves it. He didn't play long for the Phils, but he was the big free signing when the Phillies moved from the Vet to Citizens Bank Park. He may have held back Ryan Howard an extra year in the minors, but Thome brought professionalism and a winning attitude to the Philly clubhouse. I'm glad he made it to the Hall this summer.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 25
Super Bowl XXXII
"This one is for John."
- Pat Bowlen
On this date in 1998, John Elway and the Denver Broncos finally won the big one. Terrell Davis rushed for 157 yards and a Super Bowl- record three touchdowns that led the Broncos to their first NFL championship and broke the NFC's streak of Super Bowl victories at 13. Broncos 31, Packers 24.
(San Diego, California)
"I've experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows. I think to really appreciate anything you have to be at both ends of the spectrum."
- John Elway
"This one is for John."
- Pat Bowlen
On this date in 1998, John Elway and the Denver Broncos finally won the big one. Terrell Davis rushed for 157 yards and a Super Bowl- record three touchdowns that led the Broncos to their first NFL championship and broke the NFC's streak of Super Bowl victories at 13. Broncos 31, Packers 24.
(San Diego, California)
"I've experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows. I think to really appreciate anything you have to be at both ends of the spectrum."
- John Elway
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
IN THE NEWS- DELTA CRACKING DOWN ON SERVICE, SUPPORT ANIMALS
The following timely topic is from Disability Scoop..
It may soon be a little harder to fly with a service or support animal as one of the nation's largest airlines looks to weed out incidents of biting, urination and other misbehavior on its planes.
Delta Air Lines said this month that it will implement a new policy for travelers flying with service or support animals starting March 1.
The move comes in response to a growing number of untrained animals wreaking havoc on the carrier's planes, the airline said.
"Delta has seen an 84 percent increase in reported animal incidents since 2016, including urination/defecation, biting and even a widely reported attack by a 70-pound dog," Delta said in announcing the change. "In 2017, Delta employees reported increased acts of aggression (barking, growling, lunging and biting) from service and support animals, behavior not typically seen on these animals when properly trained and working."
Under the new policy, travelers with a service or support animal must provide proof of health or vaccination at least 48 hours before their flight. In addition, those with an emotional support or psychiatric service animal will need to supply a doctor's note and sign a document attesting that their animal can behave.
Delta said travelers bring some 700 service or support animals on its planes each day, or roughly 250,000 each year. In addition to dogs, customers have sought to bring comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and other animals aboard, the airline said.
"The rise in serious incidents involving animals in flight leads us to believe that the lack of regulation in both health and training screening for these animals is creating unsafe conditions across U.S. air travel, " said John Laughter, senior vice president of corporate safety, security and compliance at Delta.
The new procedures will help ensure the safety of Delta's staff and customers while also protecting trained animals who are assisting those with disabilities, the airline said. They were developed in consultation with Delta's Advisory Board on Disability, which is comprised of advocates and flyers with various disabilities.
The U.S. department of Transportation said it is aware of the changes at Delta ans will monitor the implementation to make sure that the rights of people with disabilities who rely on service animals are upheld.
"Under DOT's current rules implementing the Air Carrier Access Act, airlines are required to accommodate passengers with disabilities who depend on the assistance of service animals within limits," the agency said in a statement, "In enforcing the requirements of federal law, the department is committed to ensuring that our air transportation system is safe and accessible for everyone.'
Ultimately, Delta may not be the only airline to set tougher standards. American Airlines said it is also considering additional requirements for travelers with service or support animals and United Airlines said it is reviewing its existing policy.
It may soon be a little harder to fly with a service or support animal as one of the nation's largest airlines looks to weed out incidents of biting, urination and other misbehavior on its planes.
Delta Air Lines said this month that it will implement a new policy for travelers flying with service or support animals starting March 1.
The move comes in response to a growing number of untrained animals wreaking havoc on the carrier's planes, the airline said.
"Delta has seen an 84 percent increase in reported animal incidents since 2016, including urination/defecation, biting and even a widely reported attack by a 70-pound dog," Delta said in announcing the change. "In 2017, Delta employees reported increased acts of aggression (barking, growling, lunging and biting) from service and support animals, behavior not typically seen on these animals when properly trained and working."
Under the new policy, travelers with a service or support animal must provide proof of health or vaccination at least 48 hours before their flight. In addition, those with an emotional support or psychiatric service animal will need to supply a doctor's note and sign a document attesting that their animal can behave.
Delta said travelers bring some 700 service or support animals on its planes each day, or roughly 250,000 each year. In addition to dogs, customers have sought to bring comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and other animals aboard, the airline said.
"The rise in serious incidents involving animals in flight leads us to believe that the lack of regulation in both health and training screening for these animals is creating unsafe conditions across U.S. air travel, " said John Laughter, senior vice president of corporate safety, security and compliance at Delta.
The new procedures will help ensure the safety of Delta's staff and customers while also protecting trained animals who are assisting those with disabilities, the airline said. They were developed in consultation with Delta's Advisory Board on Disability, which is comprised of advocates and flyers with various disabilities.
The U.S. department of Transportation said it is aware of the changes at Delta ans will monitor the implementation to make sure that the rights of people with disabilities who rely on service animals are upheld.
"Under DOT's current rules implementing the Air Carrier Access Act, airlines are required to accommodate passengers with disabilities who depend on the assistance of service animals within limits," the agency said in a statement, "In enforcing the requirements of federal law, the department is committed to ensuring that our air transportation system is safe and accessible for everyone.'
Ultimately, Delta may not be the only airline to set tougher standards. American Airlines said it is also considering additional requirements for travelers with service or support animals and United Airlines said it is reviewing its existing policy.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's topic: Rivals: The Redskins-
1. Joe Kuharich coached the Redskins and Eagles for five years each. Where did he do better/
2. What Eagle/Redskin/Eagle clinched the Birds' first-ever win at Lincoln Financial Field with a touchdown?
3. The Eagles and Redskins have been playing each other for over 80 years. Who leads the overall series?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagles in the Military-
1. Harold Wells
2. Joe Kuharich, Wayne Millner and Jerry Williams.
3. Buddy Ryan, Marion Campbell, Mike McCormick and Fred Bruney
1. Joe Kuharich coached the Redskins and Eagles for five years each. Where did he do better/
2. What Eagle/Redskin/Eagle clinched the Birds' first-ever win at Lincoln Financial Field with a touchdown?
3. The Eagles and Redskins have been playing each other for over 80 years. Who leads the overall series?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagles in the Military-
1. Harold Wells
2. Joe Kuharich, Wayne Millner and Jerry Williams.
3. Buddy Ryan, Marion Campbell, Mike McCormick and Fred Bruney
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, FLYERS
* A dopey Pittsburgh writer named Ron Cook Sunday night tweeted out that Philadelphia sports fans are "sub-human", "embarrassing" and "the worst." Angelo had him on this morning on WIP Sports Radio and ripped into the guy (Kudos, Angelo!)
These loser Pittsburgh people are the worst. They can't be happy with a fellow Pennsylvania team. it kills them that their beloved Steelers choked at home to Jacksonville. The Penguins are currently behind the flyers in the NHL. The Pirates are selling off their stars and will suck this season. And their basketball team...wait, they don't have a basketball team.
They are jealous, petty people with no life.
Plus his point is stupid. First, a mere six people were arrested Sunday night after the Eagles' win. Six people. Fans were happy but not overly rowdy.
In fact, coming out of the jubilant Linc on Sunday, fans were rightfully celebrating, singing the Eagles' fight song, joyfully yelling, high-fiving and happy. But I didn't see any obscene acts or violence.
The Minnesota fans were much more obnoxious. Eagle fans were pretty respectful to the scared Viking fans sprinkled through-out the stadium. It was Minnesota fans that desecrated the Rocky statue. It was a Minnesota female fan who spit on Eagles fans when she left the Linc in disgrace.
When we left the Linc and were heading to the Citizens Bank Park lot, we attempted to cross Pattison Ave. Blocking the wheelchair ramp were a group of four stupid Viking fans, all clad in purple, who weren't crossing the street but just standing on the curb, looking stunned and shell-shocked.
We politely asked these morons, "Can you please lose Viking fans? You are blocking the ramp."
Instead of moving, they awkwardly gawked at us, mumbling and shuffling their big feet. We went around the dopes and crossed the street.
So, writers like the Pittsburgh guy have no clue. When the Eagles win on February 4, they will be even more pissed off, knowing the birds and their fans are world champs, no longer taking a backseat to anyone.
* The Eagles will be wearing their midnight green jerseys at the Super Bowl, even though they are the visiting team. New England has the choice, and they have elected not to wear their home blue tops. Two of the three Super Bowls they have lost were when they wore the blue jerseys.
*****************************************************************************
The Flyers won again last night, another overtime victory, this time over the Red Wings in Detroit. Amazingly, Travis Konecny again scored the game-winner in OT, again 27 seconds into the overtime. What are the odds?
Philly plays again on Thursday night, at home against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
These loser Pittsburgh people are the worst. They can't be happy with a fellow Pennsylvania team. it kills them that their beloved Steelers choked at home to Jacksonville. The Penguins are currently behind the flyers in the NHL. The Pirates are selling off their stars and will suck this season. And their basketball team...wait, they don't have a basketball team.
They are jealous, petty people with no life.
Plus his point is stupid. First, a mere six people were arrested Sunday night after the Eagles' win. Six people. Fans were happy but not overly rowdy.
In fact, coming out of the jubilant Linc on Sunday, fans were rightfully celebrating, singing the Eagles' fight song, joyfully yelling, high-fiving and happy. But I didn't see any obscene acts or violence.
The Minnesota fans were much more obnoxious. Eagle fans were pretty respectful to the scared Viking fans sprinkled through-out the stadium. It was Minnesota fans that desecrated the Rocky statue. It was a Minnesota female fan who spit on Eagles fans when she left the Linc in disgrace.
When we left the Linc and were heading to the Citizens Bank Park lot, we attempted to cross Pattison Ave. Blocking the wheelchair ramp were a group of four stupid Viking fans, all clad in purple, who weren't crossing the street but just standing on the curb, looking stunned and shell-shocked.
We politely asked these morons, "Can you please lose Viking fans? You are blocking the ramp."
Instead of moving, they awkwardly gawked at us, mumbling and shuffling their big feet. We went around the dopes and crossed the street.
So, writers like the Pittsburgh guy have no clue. When the Eagles win on February 4, they will be even more pissed off, knowing the birds and their fans are world champs, no longer taking a backseat to anyone.
* The Eagles will be wearing their midnight green jerseys at the Super Bowl, even though they are the visiting team. New England has the choice, and they have elected not to wear their home blue tops. Two of the three Super Bowls they have lost were when they wore the blue jerseys.
*****************************************************************************
The Flyers won again last night, another overtime victory, this time over the Red Wings in Detroit. Amazingly, Travis Konecny again scored the game-winner in OT, again 27 seconds into the overtime. What are the odds?
Philly plays again on Thursday night, at home against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 24
Most Super Bowl Wins-
6- Pittsburgh Steelers
5- New England Patriots
5- Dallas Cowboys
5- San Francisco 49'ers
4- New York Giants
4- Green Bay Packers- Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders
3- Washington Redskins
3- Denver Broncos
...and after February 4..
1- Philadelphia Eagles
6- Pittsburgh Steelers
5- New England Patriots
5- Dallas Cowboys
5- San Francisco 49'ers
4- New York Giants
4- Green Bay Packers- Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders
3- Washington Redskins
3- Denver Broncos
...and after February 4..
1- Philadelphia Eagles
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's quiz- Eagles in the Military
1. What 1960s linebacker served in the Army before attending college?
2. What Eagle head coaches served in World War II?
3. What Eagle head coaches served during the Korean War?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagle Playing Fields
1. Seven stadiums.
2. Dallas whipped the Eagles, 42-7, taking advantage of seven interceptions.
3. Veterans Stadium: A,D,F; Franklin Field: B, E: Lincoln Financial Field: C.
1. What 1960s linebacker served in the Army before attending college?
2. What Eagle head coaches served in World War II?
3. What Eagle head coaches served during the Korean War?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagle Playing Fields
1. Seven stadiums.
2. Dallas whipped the Eagles, 42-7, taking advantage of seven interceptions.
3. Veterans Stadium: A,D,F; Franklin Field: B, E: Lincoln Financial Field: C.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 23
Lowest scores in AFC-NFC Championship
Jan. 6, 1979. LA Rams 9, Tampa Bay 0 NFC Champ.
Jan. 23. 1983 Miami 14 , NY Jets 0 AFC Champ.
Jan. 12, 1992 Buffalo 10, Denver 7 AFC Champ.
Jan. 23, 2000 St. Louis 11, Tampa Bay 6 NFC Champ.
Jan. 14, 2001 Baltimore 16, Oakland 3 AFC Champ.
Jan. 18, 2004 Carolina 14, Philadelphia 3 NFC Champ.
On this day in 1983, the Miami Dolphins intercepted Richard Todd five times and the rain-soaked Orange Bowl field limited Jet running back Freeman McNeil's effectiveness as Miami advanced to the Super Bowl with a 14-0 victory. The Dolphins then lost to the Washington Redskins, 27-17, in Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl in California
Jan. 6, 1979. LA Rams 9, Tampa Bay 0 NFC Champ.
Jan. 23. 1983 Miami 14 , NY Jets 0 AFC Champ.
Jan. 12, 1992 Buffalo 10, Denver 7 AFC Champ.
Jan. 23, 2000 St. Louis 11, Tampa Bay 6 NFC Champ.
Jan. 14, 2001 Baltimore 16, Oakland 3 AFC Champ.
Jan. 18, 2004 Carolina 14, Philadelphia 3 NFC Champ.
On this day in 1983, the Miami Dolphins intercepted Richard Todd five times and the rain-soaked Orange Bowl field limited Jet running back Freeman McNeil's effectiveness as Miami advanced to the Super Bowl with a 14-0 victory. The Dolphins then lost to the Washington Redskins, 27-17, in Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl in California
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS
* It will be Philadelphia vs Boston again in Super Bowl LII. We have taken a back seat to Boston for too long, with the Celtics, Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots overshadowing our sports teams. Time for that to change, starting on February 4.
The Pats will be on the downside since Brady is getting older. The Eagles a re going to be good for years with Carson Wentz. The Phillies, with Rhys Hoskins are a young, promising team. The Flyers have young stars. And the Sixers, with Joel Embiid, should be good for years, if Embiid stay healthy.
What a contrast: The Patriots are this cool, machine-like, corporate, business-like, unemotional team that seems to reach the Super bowl every year and often wins it. The Eagles are a hard-working, blue-collar underdog squad that has never won a Super bowl before.
Tom Brady is the rich, pretty boy, greatest quarterback of all-time, with the supermodel wife. he also cheats. Nick Foles is the back-up quarterback who isn't flashy, but gets the job done. He doesn't have a supermodel wife but he has kids and is a good family guy.
Bill Belichek is the grumpy, arrogant coach who has won five Super bowls and thinks he is God's gift to football. Doug Pederson is the second-year coach who is humble, friendly and is civil to reporters.
Speaking of which, a local writer mentioned the differences in Pederson and his predecessor, Chip Kelly. Chip couldn't adjust, either in a game or adjust his scheme and philosophy about football. He was stubborn, arrogant and stupid in his decision-making and personnel evaluation. Pederson is flexible, player-friendly, and has adjusted his thinking in the offense to maximize Foles' strengths.
It's amazing to think about- Kelly nearly ruined the Eagle organization for years to come with poor drafts, trades, free agent signings and his overall scheme. It didn't take long for GM Howie Rossman to clean up his mess. Owner Jeffery Lurie and Rossman hired Pederson, despite negativity surrounding the signing, and the rest is history. Wentz developed faster than anyone expected and now the Birds are in the Super Bowl.
So, one of the fascinating stories leading up to the game is the differences in the Eagles and Pats and what a redemption it would be for the Eagles to finally end the dynasty of the evil empire known as New England and get revenge for 2004.
Lurie has ties to the Patriot organization ( he tried to buy the Patriots before he purchased the Birds). I can only imagine how sweet it would be for him to win his first Super bowl against the organization which has looked down on him for decades.
***********************************************************************
The Sixers blew another double-digit lead last night in Memphis, losing to the Grizzlies. This young team doesn't know how to win. They can't close a game. They had 24 turnovers against, far too much. Coach Brett Brown was furious after the game. Their inconsistency is exactly the reason why they will be a bubble team when it comes to making the playoffs.
The Pats will be on the downside since Brady is getting older. The Eagles a re going to be good for years with Carson Wentz. The Phillies, with Rhys Hoskins are a young, promising team. The Flyers have young stars. And the Sixers, with Joel Embiid, should be good for years, if Embiid stay healthy.
What a contrast: The Patriots are this cool, machine-like, corporate, business-like, unemotional team that seems to reach the Super bowl every year and often wins it. The Eagles are a hard-working, blue-collar underdog squad that has never won a Super bowl before.
Tom Brady is the rich, pretty boy, greatest quarterback of all-time, with the supermodel wife. he also cheats. Nick Foles is the back-up quarterback who isn't flashy, but gets the job done. He doesn't have a supermodel wife but he has kids and is a good family guy.
Bill Belichek is the grumpy, arrogant coach who has won five Super bowls and thinks he is God's gift to football. Doug Pederson is the second-year coach who is humble, friendly and is civil to reporters.
Speaking of which, a local writer mentioned the differences in Pederson and his predecessor, Chip Kelly. Chip couldn't adjust, either in a game or adjust his scheme and philosophy about football. He was stubborn, arrogant and stupid in his decision-making and personnel evaluation. Pederson is flexible, player-friendly, and has adjusted his thinking in the offense to maximize Foles' strengths.
It's amazing to think about- Kelly nearly ruined the Eagle organization for years to come with poor drafts, trades, free agent signings and his overall scheme. It didn't take long for GM Howie Rossman to clean up his mess. Owner Jeffery Lurie and Rossman hired Pederson, despite negativity surrounding the signing, and the rest is history. Wentz developed faster than anyone expected and now the Birds are in the Super Bowl.
So, one of the fascinating stories leading up to the game is the differences in the Eagles and Pats and what a redemption it would be for the Eagles to finally end the dynasty of the evil empire known as New England and get revenge for 2004.
Lurie has ties to the Patriot organization ( he tried to buy the Patriots before he purchased the Birds). I can only imagine how sweet it would be for him to win his first Super bowl against the organization which has looked down on him for decades.
***********************************************************************
The Sixers blew another double-digit lead last night in Memphis, losing to the Grizzlies. This young team doesn't know how to win. They can't close a game. They had 24 turnovers against, far too much. Coach Brett Brown was furious after the game. Their inconsistency is exactly the reason why they will be a bubble team when it comes to making the playoffs.
Monday, January 22, 2018
IN THE NEWS- PRESCHOOLERS WITH DISABILITIES INORDINATELY SUSPENDED, REPORT FINDS
This is from Disability Scoop..
Students with disabilities represent just 13 percent of the nation's preschoolers, but a new report finds they account for three-quarters of all suspensions and expulsions.
The figures come from an analysis out this month from the Center for American Progress. Researchers looked at data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health, a regular government poll of parents across the country about their kid's physical and mental health.
Parents surveyed were asked if their child had a current diagnosis of various medical or behavioral conditions and if their child had been asked to stay home from or no longer attend child care or preschool anytime within the previous year because of behavior issues.
Kids ages 3 to 5 with behavioral problems were 43 times more likely to be suspended or expelled than their typically-developing peers, the report found. the odds were 10 times greater for those with autism and 7.5 times higher for children with developmental delays.
"Children with disabilities and children of color- many of whom come from low-income families- have the most to gain from high quality preschool and k-12 education, and yet the most to lose. Expelling or suspending children who are most in need of high-quality, supportive learning undermines education's role as the great equalizer and will only worsen existing disparities," said Winnie Stacherlberg of the Center for American Progress.
The findings come as the U.S. Department of Education is reportedly considering whether to do away with Obama-era guidance designed to prevent children with disabilities and those from minority groups from being disproportionately suspended or expelled.
The report recommends that states implement laws prohibiting suspensions or expulsions of preschoolers, institute policies to support teachers and families and promote proactive responses to behavior issues, among other steps.
Students with disabilities represent just 13 percent of the nation's preschoolers, but a new report finds they account for three-quarters of all suspensions and expulsions.
The figures come from an analysis out this month from the Center for American Progress. Researchers looked at data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health, a regular government poll of parents across the country about their kid's physical and mental health.
Parents surveyed were asked if their child had a current diagnosis of various medical or behavioral conditions and if their child had been asked to stay home from or no longer attend child care or preschool anytime within the previous year because of behavior issues.
Kids ages 3 to 5 with behavioral problems were 43 times more likely to be suspended or expelled than their typically-developing peers, the report found. the odds were 10 times greater for those with autism and 7.5 times higher for children with developmental delays.
"Children with disabilities and children of color- many of whom come from low-income families- have the most to gain from high quality preschool and k-12 education, and yet the most to lose. Expelling or suspending children who are most in need of high-quality, supportive learning undermines education's role as the great equalizer and will only worsen existing disparities," said Winnie Stacherlberg of the Center for American Progress.
The findings come as the U.S. Department of Education is reportedly considering whether to do away with Obama-era guidance designed to prevent children with disabilities and those from minority groups from being disproportionately suspended or expelled.
The report recommends that states implement laws prohibiting suspensions or expulsions of preschoolers, institute policies to support teachers and families and promote proactive responses to behavior issues, among other steps.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, NFL PLAYOFFS
The city is dominated by our Super bowl-bound Eagles, but let's check out what else is happening..
* The Flyers continue to play well, beating the Capitols in Washington on Sunday afternoon, 2-1 in overtime. That's 7 of 8 for the Orange and Black for a weekend sweep of the Devils and Caps, two teams ahead of the flyers in their division. The Flyers are only 7 points behind Washington for the division lead. They play again tomorrow night at Detroit.
* New England rallied to beat Jacksonville and reach Super bowl LII to face the Eagles. The final was 24-20, Patriots. My pick was Patriots 24-21. I thought the Jags may give the Pats all they could handle, and they did, until Brady got hot in the fourth quarter, and Jacksonville turtle-up and played not to lose.
Hopefully the Birds learned that you have to be aggressive and play physical with New England.Getting pressure on Brady is a big key, knocking him down if not sacking him, and making him hurry his throws. Dominating the line of scrimmage, both on offense and defense, is another factor in beating the Patriots.
The officials also cut New England some breaks, as usual. The Patriots have a certain reputation, and consciously or not, the refs tend to favor the Pats, Belichek and Brady.
But Jacksonville had a 14-3 lead at one point, so the Jags only need to blame themselves for not holding on. The Jags played conservatively in the second half and it ended up costing them.
They gave the Patriots a scare, in New England. The weather was mild- advantage Jacksonville. They just couldn't close the deal.
The Jags have a good, young defense. I'm still not sure if Blake Bortles is the quarterback to take Jacksonville to the promised land but they should be in the playoff hunt again next season.
Meanwhile, the Pats try to get a sixth Super Bowl ring at the Eagles' expense. That would tie New England with the Steelers for most Super Bowl victories.
* The Flyers continue to play well, beating the Capitols in Washington on Sunday afternoon, 2-1 in overtime. That's 7 of 8 for the Orange and Black for a weekend sweep of the Devils and Caps, two teams ahead of the flyers in their division. The Flyers are only 7 points behind Washington for the division lead. They play again tomorrow night at Detroit.
* New England rallied to beat Jacksonville and reach Super bowl LII to face the Eagles. The final was 24-20, Patriots. My pick was Patriots 24-21. I thought the Jags may give the Pats all they could handle, and they did, until Brady got hot in the fourth quarter, and Jacksonville turtle-up and played not to lose.
Hopefully the Birds learned that you have to be aggressive and play physical with New England.Getting pressure on Brady is a big key, knocking him down if not sacking him, and making him hurry his throws. Dominating the line of scrimmage, both on offense and defense, is another factor in beating the Patriots.
The officials also cut New England some breaks, as usual. The Patriots have a certain reputation, and consciously or not, the refs tend to favor the Pats, Belichek and Brady.
But Jacksonville had a 14-3 lead at one point, so the Jags only need to blame themselves for not holding on. The Jags played conservatively in the second half and it ended up costing them.
They gave the Patriots a scare, in New England. The weather was mild- advantage Jacksonville. They just couldn't close the deal.
The Jags have a good, young defense. I'm still not sure if Blake Bortles is the quarterback to take Jacksonville to the promised land but they should be in the playoff hunt again next season.
Meanwhile, the Pats try to get a sixth Super Bowl ring at the Eagles' expense. That would tie New England with the Steelers for most Super Bowl victories.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's quiz- Eagles' Playing Fields
1. The Eagles have called how many football stadiums home?
2. Who won the first regular season football game at the Vet?
3. Match the strangeness to the venue:
a, Peepholes into the cheerleaders' dressing room from the visitors' locker room.
b. Eagle fans throw snowballs at Santa.
c. A fan runs onto the field to spread his mother's ashes.
d. Eagle fans throw snowballs at Jimmy Johnson.
e. Airplanes pass overhead trailing "Joe Must Go!" banners.
f. Eagles cancel a preseason game due to turf problems.
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Bill Bergey
1. Four times.
2. Cincinnati Bengals
3.
Tom Ehlers, Frank LeMaster, John Bunting, Kevin Reilly, Jim Opperman, Dean Halverson and Bergey himself.
1. The Eagles have called how many football stadiums home?
2. Who won the first regular season football game at the Vet?
3. Match the strangeness to the venue:
a, Peepholes into the cheerleaders' dressing room from the visitors' locker room.
b. Eagle fans throw snowballs at Santa.
c. A fan runs onto the field to spread his mother's ashes.
d. Eagle fans throw snowballs at Jimmy Johnson.
e. Airplanes pass overhead trailing "Joe Must Go!" banners.
f. Eagles cancel a preseason game due to turf problems.
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Bill Bergey
1. Four times.
2. Cincinnati Bengals
3.
Tom Ehlers, Frank LeMaster, John Bunting, Kevin Reilly, Jim Opperman, Dean Halverson and Bergey himself.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- JANUARY 22
The Sunshine Showdown
"Down goes Frazier, down goes Frazier, down goes Frazier!"
- Howard Cosell
Forty-five years ago today, George Foreman knocked out Joe Frazier in the second round to win the heavyweight championship in Kingston, Jamaica. The match was the first heavyweight boxing championship aired by HBO sports.
"Down goes Frazier, down goes Frazier, down goes Frazier!"
- Howard Cosell
Forty-five years ago today, George Foreman knocked out Joe Frazier in the second round to win the heavyweight championship in Kingston, Jamaica. The match was the first heavyweight boxing championship aired by HBO sports.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES-VIKINGS- NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME WRAP-UP
My random thoughts on the victorious NFC Championship Game , won by the Eagles . 38-7. The Eagles are going to Super Bowl LII in two weeks, facing the evil empire, the new England Patriots.
* I was at the game, One of the most amazing, unforgettable experiences of my sports life. The noise was deafening. Even after the Vikings took the opening kickoff down for a touchdown, the fans didn't give up. We were disappointed, but we remained loud. Most fans hardly ever sat down the entire game. .
We got to the sports complex after 2:00. No traffic on the expressway. The Citizens Bank Park parking lot was open and full of tail-gaters. Everyone was having fun, The weather was a mild 50 degrees for January. The last two times the Eagles went to the Super Bowl it was freezing in Philly, bitterly cold. Yesterday was almost perfect, a lot like this magical Eagles' season.
Everyone was happy and smiling as we entered the Linc. No one seemed nervous, like we were going to lose. Fans seemed confident but not cocky. All were looking forward to a special night ahead.
* Coach Doug Pederson once again called a brilliant game. His game-plan was brilliant, shredding the league's top defense. What I especially loved about Doug was at the end of the first half. The Eagles had the ball at their own 25-yard line with two time-outs and 39 seconds remaining in the half. The Birds were up, 21-7. Many fans expected QB Nick Foles to take a knee or hand-off and run the clock out, going into the locker room with the lead.
Instead, Foles threw the ball, including a long gain to TE Zach Ertz ( who had a great game), and got the team into field goal range. Jake Elliot booted a bonus three points to extend the lead to 24-7 and give the Birds momentum into the locker room. The Eagles got the ball first to open the second half, scored a touchdown, and the game was never in doubt after that. The Vikings spirit was broken and most of the second half was just a party and love fest between Eagle players and the joyful fans.
Pederson didn't turtle-up. He stayed aggressive and stepped on the Vikings' necks Hopefully the coach stays aggressive against the Pats.
* I once again met the classy Ray Didinger, and he was just as friendly and nice as ever. What a great writer and tremendous guy! Someone will write the definitive story of this storybook Eagles season. Hopefully Ray is the guy to do it.
* The fans were great last night. We were loud and didn't let up all game, right until the game ended and the celebration began. The Birds finished 9-1 at home this year, the only loss a meaningless defeat to Dallas in the last game of the year.
So much for stupid writer Mike Sielski who recently wrote that the Eagles don't have a home field advantage at the Linc .The fans wouldn't let the Birds quit all year, even after Carson Wentz hurt his knee. The fans traveled with the team and took over enemy stadiums. They were wild at home. And they truly made a difference, as the players fed off the cheers and the fans fed off the players' pleas to get crazy.
Thank God the game was in Philadelphia last night. The Birds may have still won in Minnesota, but the Vikes really didn't have a chance at the Linc. The win at Carolina earlier in the season turned out to be crucial. Both the Eagles and Vikings finished 13-3, 10-2 in the NFC. What made the difference was common opponents, as Philly beat the Panthers and Minnesota did not, hence the Eagles got home field advantage last night.
* Kudos to QB Nick Foles,w ho played the game of his life against the vikings. His stats would've been even more amazing if not for a dropped pass by Torrey Smith and Trey Burton not being able to keep his feet in bounds during the Eagles' first drive, Foles was sharp again, like night and day compared to the shaky Minnesota quarterback Case Keenum.
Who could have imagined back in the summer that Foles would pick up where Wentz left off and lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl. Foles had a sore elbow in training camp. In fact, he was held out of numerous practice sessions. But now, after getting reps with the first squad, and wearing the rust off with play, Foles is playing even better than in 2013, when he had 27 TDs and only 2 interceptions.
* The defense again played amazing, as Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz dialed-up a great game-plan to hold Minnesota to a mere seven points. The Viking defense was No. 1 in the NFL before the game, but you gotta throw out all the numbers and statistics when it comes to an emotional, big-time championship game like last night.
I think the key play of the game was Patrick Robinson's pick-six touchdown interception in the first quarter to tie the game at 7-7. The fans were loud, but admittedly, the Vikings' opening drive for a score took some of the wind out of the crowd. Robinson's play not only knotted the score but made the fans crazy again, as they were prior to kickoff.
We said that turnovers would be key. Last week the Birds were 0-2 in the takeaway department yet still won, a rare occurrence. Last night Philly had a 2-0 advantage in turnovers and that was a huge difference to the outcome of the game.
* Minnesota fans deserved what they got. They were sprinkled in the crowd, purple jerseys standing out among all the green. They seemed quiet, respectful and in fear of Eagle fans. By the third quarter they were leaving the stadium in disappointment and shame, heads lowered, Eagle fans chanting 'Skoal!" in mocking fashion.
What really pissed me off most of all was a bunch of dopey Viking fans went to the Rocky statue at the Art Museum and draped the iconic statue in purple and gold towels and linen, putting the desecration on Twitter. Minnesota fans seem too nice- or scared- to duke it out with Eagle followers. Instead they are back-stabbers.
Cowboy fans are the most obnoxious . Viking fans may be the dumbest. Why would you let all the Philly fans know what you did to the beloved Rocky statue and not expect karma to come back and bite you in the butt?
Plus, as we exited the stadium last night, we were ready to cross Pattison Ave, looking for the ramp. Wouldn't you know it? A group of 4 or 5 Viking fans, all dressed in purple, were gathered in front of the ramp, either talking or crying, as floods of Eagle fans passed them by on either side. We asked them to please move so the wheelchair could use the ramp to cross the street. The dopey Minnesota guys just looked, not saying a word, yet not moving, so we squeezed around them to use the ramp.
What a bunch of idiots. As Merrill Reese said after the game, the Vikings can spend the rest of their winter ice-fishing while the Eagles play in the Super Bowl in two weeks.
* Howie Rossman is a genius. I never thought I would say that. Think of all the free agents he signed during the off-season: Jeffrey, Blount, Long, etc. They have all contributed to this Super Bowl team. Plus, his trade to get RB Jay Ajayi form Miami during the season may have been the best of all. He deserved to win Executive of the Year. Joe Douglas needs to be honored as well, for his draft last spring. Give the front office credit for undoing the total mess that Chip Kelly left the franchise in. (I wonder if Kelly was watching last night? I'm sure his arrogant self would try to take some sort of credit if someone asked him about the eagles' Super bowl run).
Plus, credit owner Jeffery Lurie for firing Kelly, reinstating Rossman and hiring Pederson as coach. It was nice seeing him accept the Halas trophy last night for the NFC Championship, and to see him dance again with the players on the sidelines.
* I didn't see the Fox broadcast team.They were holed up under a team on the Minnesota sidelines. it's too bad that Terry Bradshaw presented the NFC trophy instead of Howie Long. It would've been fun to see him interview his son, who came up big again in the game.
I was at the stadium, so I didn't hear their predictions for the game, but I heard that, predictably, Strahan and Jimmie Johnson picked Minnesota tow in. Losers again.An ex-Cowboy and an ex-Giant. It had to tick them off to see the Eagles win and hear the joy of the fans, hated as they were ( and still are) in Philadelphia.
* So, I went 18-0 picking Eagle games this season. It may have been an "easy" year to predict the games, as Howard Eskin claimed on his radio show last Saturday, but he didn't have a perfect season.I'll make my Super Bowl pick as the big game grows closer.
* The Eagles relished in their role as underdogs. They are 5 1/2 point 'dogs to New England in the Super Bowl. That's good. Already the wretched ESPN writers and commentators are going with the Patriots. I'm so glad the Birds won and those so-called pundits, Las Vegas and other Philly haters got it stuck right up their....
Speaking of underdogs, there were dog masks at the Linc, but not as many as I expected. I guess fans realized they couldn't wear them into the game ( for security reasons), and you couldn't see through them, and any noise you tried to make was muffled.
Instead, the Eagles came up with a cool idea. They showed fans on the scoreboard and simply super-imposed dog faces over the heads of the fans. They did play "Who Let The Dogs Out."
* There were quite a few celebrity sightings at the Linc. Charles Barkley, Stephen A. Smith and Bradley Cooper were there. Eagle alumni Donovan McNabb, Wilbert Montgomery and Brian Dawkins were in attendance.Brian Westbrook gave the fans a pep talk on the scoreboard. It's the "in" thing to be seen at an Eagles game now, and it should be that way for the foreseeable future.
I was half-expecting Sylvester Stallone to make a surprise appearance, but he was a no-show. Maybe the Eagles thought he would be a distraction, maybe a jinx ( Stallone opened the Linc against Tampa Bay, which turned into an ugly Buccaneer shut-out).
The Roots,, a Philly R&B group that serves as the house band on the Jimmy Fallon Tonight Show, played an extended rap song at halftime, blending into a Fly Eagles Fly melody. Apparently The Roots weren't shown on Fox.
The post-game celebration was cool;. The second half was a party for the fans, relaxed that the outcome of the game was really not in doubt. It was unreal in a way, like "Is this really happening?" kind of a feel. The green confetti, the trophy presentation, the 70,000 fans sticking around to cheer, the fireworks. the players circling the field and thanking fans....all surreal.
Leaving the Linc, the fans were happy, singing the "Fly Eagles Fly" fight song and chanting the E-A-G-L-E-S chant, but I was surprised they weren't as rowdy as expected. They celebrated but weren't reckless, at least not around the stadium.
The news showed floods of fans on Broad Street in Center City. The city greased light poles so people wouldn't climb them. The craziest thing i saw was some young really stupid guy, decked out in green Eagle gear, hanging out a back window of a speeding car under the 30th Street Station tunnel. He could've been killed and hopefully made it to his destination safely, but obviously didn't care if he did or not.
I'm sure the celebration in two weeks, after the birds beat New England, and the parade a few days later, will be nuts, the biggest celebration in Philly sports history.
* I was in the men's room just before the half, and about twenty Eagle fans were doing the Eagles' chant. A viking fan wandered in, and the Philly fans jeered him with yells of "Skoal!" a favorite Minnesota chant. Even at halftime the fans were going nuts, even in the john.
* Even though the home season ended perfectly, and the Birds are on their way to the Super Bowl in Minneapolis on February 4th, it was still bittersweet to know another meaningful home game wouldn't occur until September. Hopefully that home opener will be a pre-game ceremony to raise the Super Bowl championship banner.That will be a hot ticket, no matter who they play.
* So, what does it all mean? For Minnesota it means another devastating loss in a big game, big it the Super Bowl or the NFC Championship Game. Their vaunted defense failed them when it counted the most. They have quarterback issues too. Will they keep Keenum? What about Sam Bradford? Is Teddy Bridgewater healthy enough to return to his old self?
Let's face it- their win over the Saints was a fluky miracle. They had a good year, going 13-3, but they were out-matched in the playoffs. For the Viking players to say they didn't show enough life or emotion in the biggest game of their lives, don't you have to look at the coaching?
For the Eagles, they face New England on February 4th. Isn't it appropriate, the perfect ending to a season of destiny/ Beating the defending champs? Getting revenge on the team that beat you in the Super bowl in 2005?
Beating Tom Brady and the mighty Pats, who are prohibitive favorites going into the game, would be satisfying as hell. Maybe playing Jacksonville would've been easier. New England went 13-3, a duel of No. 1 seeds, but they did avoid a rematch with Pittsburgh in the playoffs. They struggled with the Jaguars, even at home. Maybe they aren't all that anymore, as Brady gets older?
They are cheaters, and not a very popular squad. Hopefully most of the country rallies around the underdog, scrappy Eagles, appreciating hard-work and a blue-collar mentality, the opposite of the Patriot's elite, cool, machine-like demeanor.
The Dynasty vs. the Underdogs.It's Rocky all over again in two weeks.
* I was at the game, One of the most amazing, unforgettable experiences of my sports life. The noise was deafening. Even after the Vikings took the opening kickoff down for a touchdown, the fans didn't give up. We were disappointed, but we remained loud. Most fans hardly ever sat down the entire game. .
We got to the sports complex after 2:00. No traffic on the expressway. The Citizens Bank Park parking lot was open and full of tail-gaters. Everyone was having fun, The weather was a mild 50 degrees for January. The last two times the Eagles went to the Super Bowl it was freezing in Philly, bitterly cold. Yesterday was almost perfect, a lot like this magical Eagles' season.
Everyone was happy and smiling as we entered the Linc. No one seemed nervous, like we were going to lose. Fans seemed confident but not cocky. All were looking forward to a special night ahead.
* Coach Doug Pederson once again called a brilliant game. His game-plan was brilliant, shredding the league's top defense. What I especially loved about Doug was at the end of the first half. The Eagles had the ball at their own 25-yard line with two time-outs and 39 seconds remaining in the half. The Birds were up, 21-7. Many fans expected QB Nick Foles to take a knee or hand-off and run the clock out, going into the locker room with the lead.
Instead, Foles threw the ball, including a long gain to TE Zach Ertz ( who had a great game), and got the team into field goal range. Jake Elliot booted a bonus three points to extend the lead to 24-7 and give the Birds momentum into the locker room. The Eagles got the ball first to open the second half, scored a touchdown, and the game was never in doubt after that. The Vikings spirit was broken and most of the second half was just a party and love fest between Eagle players and the joyful fans.
Pederson didn't turtle-up. He stayed aggressive and stepped on the Vikings' necks Hopefully the coach stays aggressive against the Pats.
* I once again met the classy Ray Didinger, and he was just as friendly and nice as ever. What a great writer and tremendous guy! Someone will write the definitive story of this storybook Eagles season. Hopefully Ray is the guy to do it.
* The fans were great last night. We were loud and didn't let up all game, right until the game ended and the celebration began. The Birds finished 9-1 at home this year, the only loss a meaningless defeat to Dallas in the last game of the year.
So much for stupid writer Mike Sielski who recently wrote that the Eagles don't have a home field advantage at the Linc .The fans wouldn't let the Birds quit all year, even after Carson Wentz hurt his knee. The fans traveled with the team and took over enemy stadiums. They were wild at home. And they truly made a difference, as the players fed off the cheers and the fans fed off the players' pleas to get crazy.
Thank God the game was in Philadelphia last night. The Birds may have still won in Minnesota, but the Vikes really didn't have a chance at the Linc. The win at Carolina earlier in the season turned out to be crucial. Both the Eagles and Vikings finished 13-3, 10-2 in the NFC. What made the difference was common opponents, as Philly beat the Panthers and Minnesota did not, hence the Eagles got home field advantage last night.
* Kudos to QB Nick Foles,w ho played the game of his life against the vikings. His stats would've been even more amazing if not for a dropped pass by Torrey Smith and Trey Burton not being able to keep his feet in bounds during the Eagles' first drive, Foles was sharp again, like night and day compared to the shaky Minnesota quarterback Case Keenum.
Who could have imagined back in the summer that Foles would pick up where Wentz left off and lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl. Foles had a sore elbow in training camp. In fact, he was held out of numerous practice sessions. But now, after getting reps with the first squad, and wearing the rust off with play, Foles is playing even better than in 2013, when he had 27 TDs and only 2 interceptions.
* The defense again played amazing, as Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz dialed-up a great game-plan to hold Minnesota to a mere seven points. The Viking defense was No. 1 in the NFL before the game, but you gotta throw out all the numbers and statistics when it comes to an emotional, big-time championship game like last night.
I think the key play of the game was Patrick Robinson's pick-six touchdown interception in the first quarter to tie the game at 7-7. The fans were loud, but admittedly, the Vikings' opening drive for a score took some of the wind out of the crowd. Robinson's play not only knotted the score but made the fans crazy again, as they were prior to kickoff.
We said that turnovers would be key. Last week the Birds were 0-2 in the takeaway department yet still won, a rare occurrence. Last night Philly had a 2-0 advantage in turnovers and that was a huge difference to the outcome of the game.
* Minnesota fans deserved what they got. They were sprinkled in the crowd, purple jerseys standing out among all the green. They seemed quiet, respectful and in fear of Eagle fans. By the third quarter they were leaving the stadium in disappointment and shame, heads lowered, Eagle fans chanting 'Skoal!" in mocking fashion.
What really pissed me off most of all was a bunch of dopey Viking fans went to the Rocky statue at the Art Museum and draped the iconic statue in purple and gold towels and linen, putting the desecration on Twitter. Minnesota fans seem too nice- or scared- to duke it out with Eagle followers. Instead they are back-stabbers.
Cowboy fans are the most obnoxious . Viking fans may be the dumbest. Why would you let all the Philly fans know what you did to the beloved Rocky statue and not expect karma to come back and bite you in the butt?
Plus, as we exited the stadium last night, we were ready to cross Pattison Ave, looking for the ramp. Wouldn't you know it? A group of 4 or 5 Viking fans, all dressed in purple, were gathered in front of the ramp, either talking or crying, as floods of Eagle fans passed them by on either side. We asked them to please move so the wheelchair could use the ramp to cross the street. The dopey Minnesota guys just looked, not saying a word, yet not moving, so we squeezed around them to use the ramp.
What a bunch of idiots. As Merrill Reese said after the game, the Vikings can spend the rest of their winter ice-fishing while the Eagles play in the Super Bowl in two weeks.
* Howie Rossman is a genius. I never thought I would say that. Think of all the free agents he signed during the off-season: Jeffrey, Blount, Long, etc. They have all contributed to this Super Bowl team. Plus, his trade to get RB Jay Ajayi form Miami during the season may have been the best of all. He deserved to win Executive of the Year. Joe Douglas needs to be honored as well, for his draft last spring. Give the front office credit for undoing the total mess that Chip Kelly left the franchise in. (I wonder if Kelly was watching last night? I'm sure his arrogant self would try to take some sort of credit if someone asked him about the eagles' Super bowl run).
Plus, credit owner Jeffery Lurie for firing Kelly, reinstating Rossman and hiring Pederson as coach. It was nice seeing him accept the Halas trophy last night for the NFC Championship, and to see him dance again with the players on the sidelines.
* I didn't see the Fox broadcast team.They were holed up under a team on the Minnesota sidelines. it's too bad that Terry Bradshaw presented the NFC trophy instead of Howie Long. It would've been fun to see him interview his son, who came up big again in the game.
I was at the stadium, so I didn't hear their predictions for the game, but I heard that, predictably, Strahan and Jimmie Johnson picked Minnesota tow in. Losers again.An ex-Cowboy and an ex-Giant. It had to tick them off to see the Eagles win and hear the joy of the fans, hated as they were ( and still are) in Philadelphia.
* So, I went 18-0 picking Eagle games this season. It may have been an "easy" year to predict the games, as Howard Eskin claimed on his radio show last Saturday, but he didn't have a perfect season.I'll make my Super Bowl pick as the big game grows closer.
* The Eagles relished in their role as underdogs. They are 5 1/2 point 'dogs to New England in the Super Bowl. That's good. Already the wretched ESPN writers and commentators are going with the Patriots. I'm so glad the Birds won and those so-called pundits, Las Vegas and other Philly haters got it stuck right up their....
Speaking of underdogs, there were dog masks at the Linc, but not as many as I expected. I guess fans realized they couldn't wear them into the game ( for security reasons), and you couldn't see through them, and any noise you tried to make was muffled.
Instead, the Eagles came up with a cool idea. They showed fans on the scoreboard and simply super-imposed dog faces over the heads of the fans. They did play "Who Let The Dogs Out."
* There were quite a few celebrity sightings at the Linc. Charles Barkley, Stephen A. Smith and Bradley Cooper were there. Eagle alumni Donovan McNabb, Wilbert Montgomery and Brian Dawkins were in attendance.Brian Westbrook gave the fans a pep talk on the scoreboard. It's the "in" thing to be seen at an Eagles game now, and it should be that way for the foreseeable future.
I was half-expecting Sylvester Stallone to make a surprise appearance, but he was a no-show. Maybe the Eagles thought he would be a distraction, maybe a jinx ( Stallone opened the Linc against Tampa Bay, which turned into an ugly Buccaneer shut-out).
The Roots,, a Philly R&B group that serves as the house band on the Jimmy Fallon Tonight Show, played an extended rap song at halftime, blending into a Fly Eagles Fly melody. Apparently The Roots weren't shown on Fox.
The post-game celebration was cool;. The second half was a party for the fans, relaxed that the outcome of the game was really not in doubt. It was unreal in a way, like "Is this really happening?" kind of a feel. The green confetti, the trophy presentation, the 70,000 fans sticking around to cheer, the fireworks. the players circling the field and thanking fans....all surreal.
Leaving the Linc, the fans were happy, singing the "Fly Eagles Fly" fight song and chanting the E-A-G-L-E-S chant, but I was surprised they weren't as rowdy as expected. They celebrated but weren't reckless, at least not around the stadium.
The news showed floods of fans on Broad Street in Center City. The city greased light poles so people wouldn't climb them. The craziest thing i saw was some young really stupid guy, decked out in green Eagle gear, hanging out a back window of a speeding car under the 30th Street Station tunnel. He could've been killed and hopefully made it to his destination safely, but obviously didn't care if he did or not.
I'm sure the celebration in two weeks, after the birds beat New England, and the parade a few days later, will be nuts, the biggest celebration in Philly sports history.
* I was in the men's room just before the half, and about twenty Eagle fans were doing the Eagles' chant. A viking fan wandered in, and the Philly fans jeered him with yells of "Skoal!" a favorite Minnesota chant. Even at halftime the fans were going nuts, even in the john.
* Even though the home season ended perfectly, and the Birds are on their way to the Super Bowl in Minneapolis on February 4th, it was still bittersweet to know another meaningful home game wouldn't occur until September. Hopefully that home opener will be a pre-game ceremony to raise the Super Bowl championship banner.That will be a hot ticket, no matter who they play.
* So, what does it all mean? For Minnesota it means another devastating loss in a big game, big it the Super Bowl or the NFC Championship Game. Their vaunted defense failed them when it counted the most. They have quarterback issues too. Will they keep Keenum? What about Sam Bradford? Is Teddy Bridgewater healthy enough to return to his old self?
Let's face it- their win over the Saints was a fluky miracle. They had a good year, going 13-3, but they were out-matched in the playoffs. For the Viking players to say they didn't show enough life or emotion in the biggest game of their lives, don't you have to look at the coaching?
For the Eagles, they face New England on February 4th. Isn't it appropriate, the perfect ending to a season of destiny/ Beating the defending champs? Getting revenge on the team that beat you in the Super bowl in 2005?
Beating Tom Brady and the mighty Pats, who are prohibitive favorites going into the game, would be satisfying as hell. Maybe playing Jacksonville would've been easier. New England went 13-3, a duel of No. 1 seeds, but they did avoid a rematch with Pittsburgh in the playoffs. They struggled with the Jaguars, even at home. Maybe they aren't all that anymore, as Brady gets older?
They are cheaters, and not a very popular squad. Hopefully most of the country rallies around the underdog, scrappy Eagles, appreciating hard-work and a blue-collar mentality, the opposite of the Patriot's elite, cool, machine-like demeanor.
The Dynasty vs. the Underdogs.It's Rocky all over again in two weeks.
Sunday, January 21, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, FLYERS, SIXERS
* Happy Birthday, Nick Foles! Nick celebrated his 29th birthday yesterday. But I'm sure he will really celebrate tonight if/when the Birds win the NFC Championship Game against Minnesota.
* The clueless jackasses on Good Morning America Weekend this morning are rooting for the Vikings. First, bimbo anchor Paula Farris said "You gotta root for Minnesota since they have never won a Super Bowl before."
Duh? What about the Eagles? Like we have won six Super Bowls already? What an idiot.
Next they had some jerk named Phil Realy from ESPN give his prediction. He not only picked the Vikings, because of "the momentum form last week", but he then mocked all Eagle fans by doing a poor imitation of Rocky Balboa saying "Yo, Adrian!" Then he mumbled something stupid about the dog masks and it "not being safe around Philly fans."
Classic ESPN. Lazy journalism. Always drawing on either Santa Claus and snowballs or Rocky or the so-called hooligan fans.
Another reason and motivation for the Birds to win tonight.These national people have no clue about Philadelphia, its fans and its sports traditions. Is it jealousy that they don't have the flavor we do? Or is it the New York-elitism, looking down on Philly as a second class city?
Whatever. I didn't hear them mocking Minnesota. Only Philadelphia.What a joke. Go Eagles!
* So, after waiting all week, championship game-day is finally here. As the sun rose this morning, there was a special feeling that this day would be memorable, a day that would last forever, the day the Eagles go to the Super Bowl, on their way to win their first Super bowl title.
People started tail-gating at 6 a.m. The bar-b-ques will be fired up on such a mild January afternoon, the beer will flow and the excitement will build right up until kickoff.
The stirring National Anthem, as Challenger the Bald Eagle swoops around the stadium. The fireworks. The Rocky-style music. The player introductions. The deafening noise of the crowd as the players take the field at the Linc and the game finally begins.
Finally, after the Eagles win, the celebrations. The trophy presentation on the field. Everyone turns their focus to the Super bowl in Minneapolis in two weeks. As the game ends we will know who the birds will face- Jacksonville or New England.Crowds will be going crazy inside the stadium and on the streets of Philadelphia. The usual warnings about fans partying too much will be issued and ignored. Just a sampling of what a victory Super Bowl parade down Broad Street will be like.
It should be a good day.
*************************************************************************
The Flyers beat the Devils yesterday afternoon, 3-1, at the Wells Fargo Center. The Orange and Black have now won 6 of 7 games, inching closer to the final playoff spot in their conference. The Flyers play at Washington this afternoon at 1:00.
***************************************************************************
Meanwhile, the Sixers completed the local sweep and a long day at the Center by beating the Milwaukee Bucks. The 76'ers also move toward the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. They travel to Memphis on Monday night to take on the Grizzlies.
Hopefully the momentum of Saturday's pair of wins carries over tonight for the Eagles.
* The clueless jackasses on Good Morning America Weekend this morning are rooting for the Vikings. First, bimbo anchor Paula Farris said "You gotta root for Minnesota since they have never won a Super Bowl before."
Duh? What about the Eagles? Like we have won six Super Bowls already? What an idiot.
Next they had some jerk named Phil Realy from ESPN give his prediction. He not only picked the Vikings, because of "the momentum form last week", but he then mocked all Eagle fans by doing a poor imitation of Rocky Balboa saying "Yo, Adrian!" Then he mumbled something stupid about the dog masks and it "not being safe around Philly fans."
Classic ESPN. Lazy journalism. Always drawing on either Santa Claus and snowballs or Rocky or the so-called hooligan fans.
Another reason and motivation for the Birds to win tonight.These national people have no clue about Philadelphia, its fans and its sports traditions. Is it jealousy that they don't have the flavor we do? Or is it the New York-elitism, looking down on Philly as a second class city?
Whatever. I didn't hear them mocking Minnesota. Only Philadelphia.What a joke. Go Eagles!
* So, after waiting all week, championship game-day is finally here. As the sun rose this morning, there was a special feeling that this day would be memorable, a day that would last forever, the day the Eagles go to the Super Bowl, on their way to win their first Super bowl title.
People started tail-gating at 6 a.m. The bar-b-ques will be fired up on such a mild January afternoon, the beer will flow and the excitement will build right up until kickoff.
The stirring National Anthem, as Challenger the Bald Eagle swoops around the stadium. The fireworks. The Rocky-style music. The player introductions. The deafening noise of the crowd as the players take the field at the Linc and the game finally begins.
Finally, after the Eagles win, the celebrations. The trophy presentation on the field. Everyone turns their focus to the Super bowl in Minneapolis in two weeks. As the game ends we will know who the birds will face- Jacksonville or New England.Crowds will be going crazy inside the stadium and on the streets of Philadelphia. The usual warnings about fans partying too much will be issued and ignored. Just a sampling of what a victory Super Bowl parade down Broad Street will be like.
It should be a good day.
*************************************************************************
The Flyers beat the Devils yesterday afternoon, 3-1, at the Wells Fargo Center. The Orange and Black have now won 6 of 7 games, inching closer to the final playoff spot in their conference. The Flyers play at Washington this afternoon at 1:00.
***************************************************************************
Meanwhile, the Sixers completed the local sweep and a long day at the Center by beating the Milwaukee Bucks. The 76'ers also move toward the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. They travel to Memphis on Monday night to take on the Grizzlies.
Hopefully the momentum of Saturday's pair of wins carries over tonight for the Eagles.
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's topic is: Bill Bergey
1. How many times was Bill All-Pro?
2. Where did Bergey begin his career?
3. Early on, the Eagle line backing corps was known as the Bergey Bunch and had a Butch Cassidy-style photo taken in 1975. Who were the members of the Bergey Bunch?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Chuck Bednarik
1. True on all accounts
2. False. Bednarik sold concrete in the off-season, earning him that nickname.
3. False. Bednarik caused another Giant fumble earlier in the fourth quarter which resulted in a touchdown.
1. How many times was Bill All-Pro?
2. Where did Bergey begin his career?
3. Early on, the Eagle line backing corps was known as the Bergey Bunch and had a Butch Cassidy-style photo taken in 1975. Who were the members of the Bergey Bunch?
Check back tomorrow for the answers!
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Chuck Bednarik
1. True on all accounts
2. False. Bednarik sold concrete in the off-season, earning him that nickname.
3. False. Bednarik caused another Giant fumble earlier in the fourth quarter which resulted in a touchdown.
Saturday, January 20, 2018
CHIRPING BIRDS- BEDNARIK, NFC CHAMPIONSHIP
* Steve Trevelise asked last night on his radio show who would the fans like to take to the big NFC Championship Game tomorrow night.I'm lucky enough to be going, and my nephew and a friend are attending with me. But if I had a choice of who to watch the game with, dead or alive, I would say my late father or Eagle great, Chuck Bednarik.
My dad is an obvious choice. He was a great Philly sports fan, especially the Phillies, but he also loved the Eagles. He had never been to a championship game in his 55 years, so going to tomorrow's match-up with the Vikings would've been so special.
Seeing the game with Chuck Bednarik would be fun as well. I envision Sunday night's game as being a tough, gritty, low-scoring, defensive contest, the kind of game Bednarik loved to play in.
Chuck Bednarik is Mr. Eagle, the player who most personifies the team, its fans and city. There was never any doubt about the toughness of Bednarik, the son of Slovak immigrants from Bethlehem, Pa. who served in World War II as a B-24 waist gunner and went to the University of Pennsylvania om the GI Bill.
He was a two-way star at Penn and a perennial All-Pro who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. He is such a local legend, almost folk-lore like in his football career and life, from his devastating hit on Giants' Frank Gifford in their 1960 game to his leadership on the field against the Packers for the Eagles only NFL championship even to this day
I met "Concrete Charlie" as a kid. He was friends with our parish priest and came to Phoenixville one spring morning to speak at our First Communion breakfast. I don't recall much of that morning, but I do remember how awestruck my dad was when we met Bednarik. I remember Bednarik being big, intense and a nice guy.
I mostly remember Bednarik's hands.Shaking his hand, my tiny hand was lost in his gnarled neat hooks. I heard stories about his dislocated, broken fingers, war medals from his football days.
Hopefully the spirit of "Concrete Charlie" is with the Eagles tomorrow night as they defeat Minnesota and move on to the Super Bowl.
* Minnesota remains a three-point favorite tomorrow. I expect late money to go on the Birds, as it did last week before the Atlanta game. I don't think the Vikings win, let alone win by more than three points in Philadelphia.
Getting the lead early, limiting turnovers and penalties, and controlling the ball are all keys to victory. The raucous home fans will make a difference, but the fans can't catch the ball or tackle. It's up to the players to perform. I think they will. As the Eagles buried a favored Vikings team last season with Sam Bradford at quarterback, I think the birds dominate the game, though I do see a close, defensive-minded contest.
I still say Eagles 20 Vikings 17
I'll be at the game tomorrow night and will have a review and notes on Monday morning. When the sun comes up on Monday, will we still be celebrating or will we be depressed as reality sinks in that the season is over?
My dad is an obvious choice. He was a great Philly sports fan, especially the Phillies, but he also loved the Eagles. He had never been to a championship game in his 55 years, so going to tomorrow's match-up with the Vikings would've been so special.
Seeing the game with Chuck Bednarik would be fun as well. I envision Sunday night's game as being a tough, gritty, low-scoring, defensive contest, the kind of game Bednarik loved to play in.
Chuck Bednarik is Mr. Eagle, the player who most personifies the team, its fans and city. There was never any doubt about the toughness of Bednarik, the son of Slovak immigrants from Bethlehem, Pa. who served in World War II as a B-24 waist gunner and went to the University of Pennsylvania om the GI Bill.
He was a two-way star at Penn and a perennial All-Pro who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. He is such a local legend, almost folk-lore like in his football career and life, from his devastating hit on Giants' Frank Gifford in their 1960 game to his leadership on the field against the Packers for the Eagles only NFL championship even to this day
I met "Concrete Charlie" as a kid. He was friends with our parish priest and came to Phoenixville one spring morning to speak at our First Communion breakfast. I don't recall much of that morning, but I do remember how awestruck my dad was when we met Bednarik. I remember Bednarik being big, intense and a nice guy.
I mostly remember Bednarik's hands.Shaking his hand, my tiny hand was lost in his gnarled neat hooks. I heard stories about his dislocated, broken fingers, war medals from his football days.
Hopefully the spirit of "Concrete Charlie" is with the Eagles tomorrow night as they defeat Minnesota and move on to the Super Bowl.
* Minnesota remains a three-point favorite tomorrow. I expect late money to go on the Birds, as it did last week before the Atlanta game. I don't think the Vikings win, let alone win by more than three points in Philadelphia.
Getting the lead early, limiting turnovers and penalties, and controlling the ball are all keys to victory. The raucous home fans will make a difference, but the fans can't catch the ball or tackle. It's up to the players to perform. I think they will. As the Eagles buried a favored Vikings team last season with Sam Bradford at quarterback, I think the birds dominate the game, though I do see a close, defensive-minded contest.
I still say Eagles 20 Vikings 17
I'll be at the game tomorrow night and will have a review and notes on Monday morning. When the sun comes up on Monday, will we still be celebrating or will we be depressed as reality sinks in that the season is over?
EAGLES FACTS AND TRIVIA
Today's topic- Chuck Bednarik
True or False-
1. Chuck was a two-time All-American as a two-way center/linebacker in college. He was the first lineman to win the Maxwell Award as the best college player.
2. Bednarik was known as "Concrete Charlie" because of his devastating hits.
3. Chuck's pulverizing hit on Frank Gifford in the 1960 Giants game was the only fumble Bednarik caused that day.
Answers to yesterday's quiz- Eagle Nicknames-
1. Greg "Trash" Garrity and Andre "Muddy" Waters.
2. David "Buddy" Ryan, Christian "Sonny" Jurgensen. and Duce Staley's real name is Duce.
3. Reggie "Minister of Defense" White, Ron "The Polish Rifle" Jaworski, John "Frito Bandito" Bunting.
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