It's Halloween, not exactly my favorite holiday, but here are my memories and thoughts anyway..
- There's a grass roots campaign going to move Halloween from October 31st. The idea is to celebrate Halloween every last Saturday in October. That way, kids don't have to worry about school the next day, and older people can attend parties and not worry about work. The traditionalists want to keep it on the 31st.
To me, it doesn't really matter, since Halloween is sort of meaningless in my life. Other holidays are similar- Easter, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day, to name a few, in that they can be moved. I think it will stay on October 31st.
- 10 years ago today- on Halloween- the Phillies had their world championship parade. I remember it being a beautiful day. It seems so long ago now.
- As a kid, my favorite Halloween costumes were a hobo, a scarecrow and john Kennedy. Halloween was special for trick-or-treating at night, and Halloween parties at school.
Halloween always meant a break on the school year, a halfway mark between Labor Day and Thanksgiving break. Still too far til Christmas, but Christmas commercials and holiday music start to appear. The weather gets chilly and cold, it's usually windy, leaves are down after fall foliage is over. The nights seem darker, unless there is a full moon, which often hovers eerily over the landscape. Daylight Saving Time is about to end, which means even more gloomy nights ahead. Everything is shutting down from a long winter's nap.
- Like any kid, I had my favorite Halloween candy. Sometimes the candy didn't matter as long a sit was candy and not fruit, pennies or trinkets that were given out while trick-or-treating.
Reeses Peanut Butter Cups remain my favorite, along with M&Ms, Three Musketeers bars and Nestle Crunch. Other chocolates like Snickers or Milky Way was OK, along with Kit Kats and Hershey bars. Candy such as licorice, Mary Janes or candy corn were immediately sorted and tossed aside after returning home, without hesitation.
Little bags of popcorn or Fritos were acceptable, and a nice diversion from chocolate, but, if for only one night, chocolate ruled, leading often to bellyaches, cavities and pimples.
- Every year we had a Halloween parade thru Phoenixville, which was fun, seeing kids trudging the route, dragging their bags behind them, or families all dressed up together.
The day before, October 30, was Mischief Night, which never made sense to me. It was just a night that gave rowdy kids and adults an excuse to go out and damage property. Stupid.
Now, Halloween doesn't seem the same. Now shopping malls are offering trick-or-treating in the mall, a way to keep children off the streets - and in their stores. The rule of thumb for trick-or-treating was , if you don't see a porch light on, or house lights, don't knock. Plus now each town has a specific time-frame for when you can and can't go visiting the neighborhood.
More Halloween stores around. Seems like adults are getting into the holiday more, with costumes.and parties.
- Nothing better than to celebrate Halloween watching a scary movie- in the dark, late at night. The Exorcist was just about the scariest movie I've ever seen, but I'm old school when it comes to horror movies. It takes a lot to frighten me. I'm not into the blood and gore, like the old Halloween movies or Nightmare on Elm Street flicks.
To me, a really scary movie was the old Dracula, starring the creepy Bela Lugosi. I loved to watch the soap opera Dark Shadows while growing up. Newer movies like Alien scared the shit out of me.
I always enjoyed the Halloween specials on TV too, especially the Halloween episodes on weekly shows, like The Brady Bunch when I was growing up.
Other than "Monster Mash" I've never had any favorite Halloween songs. 'The Hollies' "Long Cool Woman" and Cliff Richard's "Devil Woman" were OK but not really specifically meant for Halloween. . I suppose one could make a decent play list of scary or Halloween-themed tunes.
All in all, Halloween is more of a landmark event every year on the calendar than a holiday. October 31st always reminds me that the year is almost done, the weather is changing and the holidays ( my favorite time of the year) are just around the corner.
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS, FLYERS, PHILLIES
- The Eagles once again showed what separates them from the other losers in Philly. GM Howie Rossman traded for WR Golden Tate before the trade deadline, sending a 3rd round draft pick to the Lions.
The Phillies failed to get Manny Machado last summer. The Sixers failed to sign Leonard or LeBron last summer in free agency. The Eagles are going for it. It was a win-win situation. Tate will help for the remainder of the season. He's a speedy, reliable wide receiver, a guy who can also return punts. He becomes a free agent after the season. If Philly doesn't sign him, they should get a compensatory draft pick in 2020.
The Birds are off this week as Dallas hosts Tennessee and Washington plays Atlanta. Next weekend on Sunday Night Football the Cowboys come to town for a huge NFC East division game.
- The Sixers lost in Toronto last night, thanks in large part to Kawhi Leonard. The 76ers are now 4-4, 4-0 at home and 0-4 on the road. They have crumbled against better competition. Simmons and Fultz continue to flounder with their shots. Coach Brown seems perplexed and is offering up more excuses. Management is a big part of the problems. They failed to make the team better during the off-season. Trying to "fix" Fultz' jump shot was a crazy idea. Looks like Simmons was spending more time with the Kardasiansthen in the gym.
I'm glad I bet on the Sixers to not win over 53 games this season.
- The Flyers pulled out a game in Anaheim. They are on a 4-game road trip to the west coast, playing the Kings tonight in LA. With a good road trip they may be able to temporarily save coach Hakstol's job, but only for the short term. The real answer is getting a true no. 1 goalie and a more experienced head coach.
- The time is getting closer for the Phillies to put up or shut up. Over the weekend teams will be able to start making offers to free agents on the market. Will the Phils land Machado, Harper, Corbin or someone else? They have been hoarding money for years. They told fans this off-season would be targeted for spending cash on making the team better. The rebuild is over. Time to start winning.
Big chance for GM Matt Klentak to prove his worth to the organization and fans. So far he has done nothing, just sit back and sign one-year contracts for the most part, with not-so-significant trades.
It's time for ownership to step up too. John Middleton was in London with the Eagles instead of attending the World Series. His claim that he will "do whatever it takes to win a championship" will be tested soon. Is he a man of his word or all talk?
The Phillies failed to get Manny Machado last summer. The Sixers failed to sign Leonard or LeBron last summer in free agency. The Eagles are going for it. It was a win-win situation. Tate will help for the remainder of the season. He's a speedy, reliable wide receiver, a guy who can also return punts. He becomes a free agent after the season. If Philly doesn't sign him, they should get a compensatory draft pick in 2020.
The Birds are off this week as Dallas hosts Tennessee and Washington plays Atlanta. Next weekend on Sunday Night Football the Cowboys come to town for a huge NFC East division game.
- The Sixers lost in Toronto last night, thanks in large part to Kawhi Leonard. The 76ers are now 4-4, 4-0 at home and 0-4 on the road. They have crumbled against better competition. Simmons and Fultz continue to flounder with their shots. Coach Brown seems perplexed and is offering up more excuses. Management is a big part of the problems. They failed to make the team better during the off-season. Trying to "fix" Fultz' jump shot was a crazy idea. Looks like Simmons was spending more time with the Kardasiansthen in the gym.
I'm glad I bet on the Sixers to not win over 53 games this season.
- The Flyers pulled out a game in Anaheim. They are on a 4-game road trip to the west coast, playing the Kings tonight in LA. With a good road trip they may be able to temporarily save coach Hakstol's job, but only for the short term. The real answer is getting a true no. 1 goalie and a more experienced head coach.
- The time is getting closer for the Phillies to put up or shut up. Over the weekend teams will be able to start making offers to free agents on the market. Will the Phils land Machado, Harper, Corbin or someone else? They have been hoarding money for years. They told fans this off-season would be targeted for spending cash on making the team better. The rebuild is over. Time to start winning.
Big chance for GM Matt Klentak to prove his worth to the organization and fans. So far he has done nothing, just sit back and sign one-year contracts for the most part, with not-so-significant trades.
It's time for ownership to step up too. John Middleton was in London with the Eagles instead of attending the World Series. His claim that he will "do whatever it takes to win a championship" will be tested soon. Is he a man of his word or all talk?
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
MASCOT MATCHUP II
Match the name linked with the university mascot:
A. Mike 1. Ohio State
B. Otto 2. Purdue
C. Traveler 3. Miami
D. Ralphie 4. Texas
E. Pete 5. Tennessee
F. Brutus 6. Wisconsin
G. Sebastian 7. Colorado
H. Smokey 8. LSU
I. Bucky 9. USC
J. Bevo 10. Syracuse
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, SIXERS, WING BOWL
- The Eagles are back from their British Invasion. The NFL trade deadline is 4pm today. Will the Birds make a move?
They need to fill some holes at running back, wide receiver, the secondary and offensive line. Makes no sense to deal away high draft picks for temporary help. Makes sense, if you make a trade, to get help not only for now, but for years to come.
If GM Howie Rossman gets former Eagle wide-out DeSean Jackson I'll be happy. Jackson wants out of Tampa Bay. He is still fast, even at 32 years old. The Birds need a home run hitter, someone who will stretch the field.
The organization has 11 draft picks next spring, including two second rounders. Realistically, if Philly wins the NFC East they will not only get into the playoffs but also a home playoff game. They are not going to have a better record than the undefeated Rams, or maybe even New Orleans. They already lose a tie-breaker with Minnesota and Carolina.
If another team needs a quarterback (Denver, Jacksonville or Buffalo?) would Howie trade Nick Foles? Foles only has eight games left as an Eagle. At the end of the season Foles will walk as a free agent. Today is the last chance to get something for Foles. Sudfeld would be the back-up quarterback this season. What would Philly get for Foles? Interestiing to consider..
- The Sixers blew out a bad Atlanta Hawks team last night in South Philadelphia. The 78ers are undefeated at home but are winless on the road. The team flies to Toronto tonight to play the tough Raptors and Kawhi Lenard.
- WIP Sports Radio host Angelo Cataldi made the announcement this morning that Wing Bowl, after 26 years, is over. He sounded tearful, and I'm thinking it was more of a corporate decision to pull the plug. With the Eagles good now, and the possibility of reaching the Super Bowl, I'm sure radio management would want the Morning Team at the Super Bowl and not stuck doing a Wing Bowl.
It was a fun event, meant to take the place of the Eagles in the Super Bowl. I never attended a Wing bowl but did listen to it on the radio. It made fat nobodys a somebody. It gave fans a chance to get drunk and take off from work every first Friday in February. It was mindless fun and would be a great topic for a future movie or documentary.
Obviously, things are changing at WIP. Last year the Morning Show went to Los Angeles for the Rams game. This year they stay home. Now it's R.I.P. Wing Bowl. Is Angelo's retirement far behind?
They need to fill some holes at running back, wide receiver, the secondary and offensive line. Makes no sense to deal away high draft picks for temporary help. Makes sense, if you make a trade, to get help not only for now, but for years to come.
If GM Howie Rossman gets former Eagle wide-out DeSean Jackson I'll be happy. Jackson wants out of Tampa Bay. He is still fast, even at 32 years old. The Birds need a home run hitter, someone who will stretch the field.
The organization has 11 draft picks next spring, including two second rounders. Realistically, if Philly wins the NFC East they will not only get into the playoffs but also a home playoff game. They are not going to have a better record than the undefeated Rams, or maybe even New Orleans. They already lose a tie-breaker with Minnesota and Carolina.
If another team needs a quarterback (Denver, Jacksonville or Buffalo?) would Howie trade Nick Foles? Foles only has eight games left as an Eagle. At the end of the season Foles will walk as a free agent. Today is the last chance to get something for Foles. Sudfeld would be the back-up quarterback this season. What would Philly get for Foles? Interestiing to consider..
- The Sixers blew out a bad Atlanta Hawks team last night in South Philadelphia. The 78ers are undefeated at home but are winless on the road. The team flies to Toronto tonight to play the tough Raptors and Kawhi Lenard.
- WIP Sports Radio host Angelo Cataldi made the announcement this morning that Wing Bowl, after 26 years, is over. He sounded tearful, and I'm thinking it was more of a corporate decision to pull the plug. With the Eagles good now, and the possibility of reaching the Super Bowl, I'm sure radio management would want the Morning Team at the Super Bowl and not stuck doing a Wing Bowl.
It was a fun event, meant to take the place of the Eagles in the Super Bowl. I never attended a Wing bowl but did listen to it on the radio. It made fat nobodys a somebody. It gave fans a chance to get drunk and take off from work every first Friday in February. It was mindless fun and would be a great topic for a future movie or documentary.
Obviously, things are changing at WIP. Last year the Morning Show went to Los Angeles for the Rams game. This year they stay home. Now it's R.I.P. Wing Bowl. Is Angelo's retirement far behind?
Monday, October 29, 2018
NFL WRAP-UP- WEEK 8
With the Patriots at the Bills tonight, here is a wrap-up of week 8 in the NFL..
Texans over Dolphins-
Houston won their 5th game in a row over inconsistent Miami, which, after a fast start, is slipping in AFC East. Houston travels to Denver next weekend while the Dolphins host the Jets.
Chiefs over Broncos-
Kansas City goes to 7-1 with a victory at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver gave it another gutsy effort, coming up short. KC goes to Cleveland next week while the Broncos play host to the red-hot Texans
Steelers over Browns-
Pittsburgh seems like it finally has it's act together, even though they would still love to trade running back Levan Bell by the deadline. Cleveland, much improved, still isn't good enough to win the really big games. The Steelers go to Baltimore to take on their fierce division rival in a huge AFC North game, while the Browns entertain 7-1 Kansas City.
Redskins over Giants-
Washington stays on top of NFC East, escaping new York. The Giants, now 1-7, started off 1-8 last season. another high draft pick awaits the G-men. The Skins play the Falcons in Washington next week while New York has a bye.
Seahawks over Lions-
Suddenly Seattle is winning and hoping for a wild card spot, while inconsistent Detroit loses another home game. The Seahawks hope to keep it going next weekend against the Chargers in Seattle while the Lions start a critical two-game road trip to Minnesota.
Bengals over Buccaneers-
Cincy escapes at home and stays in warmAFC North race while the struggling Bucs have a full-blown QB crisis while the players revolt ( DeSean Jackson has demanded a trade). Cincinnati has a bye while Tampa stays on the road at Carolina.
Bears over Jets-
The bears continue to play well. They may not win the NFC North or make the playoffs this season but Chicago is building a respectable team. The Jets remain up and down with the road loss. The Bears go to Buffalo before going back to Soldier Field for two straight. New York stays on the road and in AFC East with a key contest in Miami.
Panthers over Ravens-
Carolina proved their upset, epic comeback against the Eagles last week in Philadelphia was not a fluke as they beat Baltimore at home. 5-2 Carolina will be in a battle with New Orleans for the NFC South crown. Baltimore, with a chance to seize control of AFC North when Pittsburgh was struggling, lose again. They host the Steelers next week in a do-or-die clash. Carolina hosts Tampa Bay next weekend.
Colts over Raiders-
The Colts and QB Andrew Luck beat on the hapless Raiders in Oakland. Indy has a bye next week before starting a three game home stand. Oakland goes to San Francisco Thursday night for a battle of the Bay area.
Cardinals over 49ers-
Meaningless game between two losers. Arizona has a bye before heading to Kansas City, while San Francisco hosts rival Oakland this Thursday night.
Rams over Packers-
Great game between two contenders. The Rams scored a huge safety in the 2nd quarter which broke the logjam and led to an exciting 29-27 win in LA. The Rams stay undefeated at 8-0, the 1st time the Rams are 8-0 since 1969. Who is going to beat them? They go to tough New Orleans next week and also have home game down the road with the Chiefs and Eagles. Green Bay suffers a tough loss and now must travel to New England in a brutal road stretch.
Saints over Vikings-
New Orleans gets their revenge after their fluky playoff loss last year to Minnesota. It's the year of revenge, as both the Vikings and Panthers got their revenge against Philly earlier this season. The Saints host the undefeated Rams in the Super Dome next week. The Vikes has another home game on tap, this once at home vs Detroit.
I hot on my two selections yesterday, going to 11-5 against the NFL spread so far this season. The Panthers were actually getting points at home while Washington also covered in New York against the woeful Gaints.
Texans over Dolphins-
Houston won their 5th game in a row over inconsistent Miami, which, after a fast start, is slipping in AFC East. Houston travels to Denver next weekend while the Dolphins host the Jets.
Chiefs over Broncos-
Kansas City goes to 7-1 with a victory at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver gave it another gutsy effort, coming up short. KC goes to Cleveland next week while the Broncos play host to the red-hot Texans
Steelers over Browns-
Pittsburgh seems like it finally has it's act together, even though they would still love to trade running back Levan Bell by the deadline. Cleveland, much improved, still isn't good enough to win the really big games. The Steelers go to Baltimore to take on their fierce division rival in a huge AFC North game, while the Browns entertain 7-1 Kansas City.
Redskins over Giants-
Washington stays on top of NFC East, escaping new York. The Giants, now 1-7, started off 1-8 last season. another high draft pick awaits the G-men. The Skins play the Falcons in Washington next week while New York has a bye.
Seahawks over Lions-
Suddenly Seattle is winning and hoping for a wild card spot, while inconsistent Detroit loses another home game. The Seahawks hope to keep it going next weekend against the Chargers in Seattle while the Lions start a critical two-game road trip to Minnesota.
Bengals over Buccaneers-
Cincy escapes at home and stays in warmAFC North race while the struggling Bucs have a full-blown QB crisis while the players revolt ( DeSean Jackson has demanded a trade). Cincinnati has a bye while Tampa stays on the road at Carolina.
Bears over Jets-
The bears continue to play well. They may not win the NFC North or make the playoffs this season but Chicago is building a respectable team. The Jets remain up and down with the road loss. The Bears go to Buffalo before going back to Soldier Field for two straight. New York stays on the road and in AFC East with a key contest in Miami.
Panthers over Ravens-
Carolina proved their upset, epic comeback against the Eagles last week in Philadelphia was not a fluke as they beat Baltimore at home. 5-2 Carolina will be in a battle with New Orleans for the NFC South crown. Baltimore, with a chance to seize control of AFC North when Pittsburgh was struggling, lose again. They host the Steelers next week in a do-or-die clash. Carolina hosts Tampa Bay next weekend.
Colts over Raiders-
The Colts and QB Andrew Luck beat on the hapless Raiders in Oakland. Indy has a bye next week before starting a three game home stand. Oakland goes to San Francisco Thursday night for a battle of the Bay area.
Cardinals over 49ers-
Meaningless game between two losers. Arizona has a bye before heading to Kansas City, while San Francisco hosts rival Oakland this Thursday night.
Rams over Packers-
Great game between two contenders. The Rams scored a huge safety in the 2nd quarter which broke the logjam and led to an exciting 29-27 win in LA. The Rams stay undefeated at 8-0, the 1st time the Rams are 8-0 since 1969. Who is going to beat them? They go to tough New Orleans next week and also have home game down the road with the Chiefs and Eagles. Green Bay suffers a tough loss and now must travel to New England in a brutal road stretch.
Saints over Vikings-
New Orleans gets their revenge after their fluky playoff loss last year to Minnesota. It's the year of revenge, as both the Vikings and Panthers got their revenge against Philly earlier this season. The Saints host the undefeated Rams in the Super Dome next week. The Vikes has another home game on tap, this once at home vs Detroit.
I hot on my two selections yesterday, going to 11-5 against the NFL spread so far this season. The Panthers were actually getting points at home while Washington also covered in New York against the woeful Gaints.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, WORLD SERIES, FLYERS, SIXERS
- More after thoughts of Eagles' victory in London..
Running back Josh Adams, a rookie from notre Dame, looked impressive yesterday against Jacksonville. He nearly had a desasterous fumble in hte 4th quarter but was ruled down. Looks like the Birds are going to go with running back by committee for the reason of the year, rotating Adams, Clenet and Smallwood. Doubtful they will pick up another back via trade this week. Too many other needs.
DeSean Jackson made it known even louder atfer Tampa Bay's loss in cincinnati, that he wants out of Tampa. The Eagles need to call the Buccaneers. D-Jax would give the birds the home run hitter wide receiver they have lacked since, well, D-Jax was cut by clueless Chip Kelly.
- As predicted, the Red Sox are word champs, winning the World Series over the Dodgers in five games. Give Bosotn credit. They were clearly the best team in baseball all season, winning a franchise-record 108 games. They cruised by the rival Yankees, Astros and then Los Angeles. They crushed the ball and weren't so dependent on analytics. They continue to be a lodal organization. Their farm system is full of prospects. They have a timeless stadium and passionate fans.
The Sox come back to Citizens Bank Park next September for a pair of games.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers lose their second straight World Series. What will it take for owner Magic Johnson to get them over the hump? They went all-in by obtaining Manny Machado. Will they try to re-sign him? LA also has a deep farm system to fill in gaps and use as trade chips.
With young and upcoming teams like the braves, Cubs, Brewers and even the Phillies, it won't be easy for the Dodgers to return to the Fall Classic for a third year in a row.
With the World Series over, teams can begin talking to free agents. On Friday, five days after the end of the season, signings can be made. Let's see what the Phillies do soon.
- The inconsistent Flyers were embarrassed again a thome, losing on Saturday afternoon to the Islanders, 6-1. How much longer until GM Hexstall makes a coaching change? Hopefully before this young season slips away. As stated, this Flyers squad won't go anywhere until they get a true no. 1 goalie and a new head coach.
- The Sixers won by a mere two points on Saturday night, beating visiting Charlotte. The 3-3 76ers next play the Hawks. I still don't like the make-up of this team as we are not sure if No. 1 overall draft pick markelle Fultz can play or not.
Running back Josh Adams, a rookie from notre Dame, looked impressive yesterday against Jacksonville. He nearly had a desasterous fumble in hte 4th quarter but was ruled down. Looks like the Birds are going to go with running back by committee for the reason of the year, rotating Adams, Clenet and Smallwood. Doubtful they will pick up another back via trade this week. Too many other needs.
DeSean Jackson made it known even louder atfer Tampa Bay's loss in cincinnati, that he wants out of Tampa. The Eagles need to call the Buccaneers. D-Jax would give the birds the home run hitter wide receiver they have lacked since, well, D-Jax was cut by clueless Chip Kelly.
- As predicted, the Red Sox are word champs, winning the World Series over the Dodgers in five games. Give Bosotn credit. They were clearly the best team in baseball all season, winning a franchise-record 108 games. They cruised by the rival Yankees, Astros and then Los Angeles. They crushed the ball and weren't so dependent on analytics. They continue to be a lodal organization. Their farm system is full of prospects. They have a timeless stadium and passionate fans.
The Sox come back to Citizens Bank Park next September for a pair of games.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers lose their second straight World Series. What will it take for owner Magic Johnson to get them over the hump? They went all-in by obtaining Manny Machado. Will they try to re-sign him? LA also has a deep farm system to fill in gaps and use as trade chips.
With young and upcoming teams like the braves, Cubs, Brewers and even the Phillies, it won't be easy for the Dodgers to return to the Fall Classic for a third year in a row.
With the World Series over, teams can begin talking to free agents. On Friday, five days after the end of the season, signings can be made. Let's see what the Phillies do soon.
- The inconsistent Flyers were embarrassed again a thome, losing on Saturday afternoon to the Islanders, 6-1. How much longer until GM Hexstall makes a coaching change? Hopefully before this young season slips away. As stated, this Flyers squad won't go anywhere until they get a true no. 1 goalie and a new head coach.
- The Sixers won by a mere two points on Saturday night, beating visiting Charlotte. The 3-3 76ers next play the Hawks. I still don't like the make-up of this team as we are not sure if No. 1 overall draft pick markelle Fultz can play or not.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 29
"There are several differences between a football game and a revolution. For one thing, a football game usually lasts longer and the participants wear uniforms. Also, there are usually more casualties in a football game.
The object of the game is to move a ball past the other team's goal line. This counts as six points. No points are given for lacerations, contusions, or abrasions, but then no points are deducted, either.
Kicking is very important in football. In fact, some of the more enthusiastic players even kick the ball, occasionally."
- Alfred Hitchcock
The object of the game is to move a ball past the other team's goal line. This counts as six points. No points are given for lacerations, contusions, or abrasions, but then no points are deducted, either.
Kicking is very important in football. In fact, some of the more enthusiastic players even kick the ball, occasionally."
- Alfred Hitchcock
Sunday, October 28, 2018
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES- JAGUARS REVUEW
My comments on the Eagles' victory over Jacksonville this morning in London...
-Much-needed win, levels the birds at 4-4 with a bye next week. Still made plenty of mistakes and the Jags could've easily won the 24-18 game if they weren't so bad. Still, the win keeps the season alive with five NFC East division games still ahead.
Dallas awaits at the Linc in two weeks, on Sunday Night Football. Key contest, as Dallas may be 4-4 as well. Plus always a big game when the cowboys come to town. I'm sure the Linc will be rocking in two weeks- and I'll be there.
- Probably the worst news to come out of London was the Lane Johnson injury. Looks like the right tackle sprained his MCL, which means at least a month on the sidelines. This offensive line was shaky enough. More than ever, Coach Pederson needs to depend on the run.
--Will GM Howie Rossman be more inclined to make a deal or two before Wednesday's trade deadline? Holes are there, in the secondary (Jalan Mills was injured too, a foot injury, but he was walking after the game), O-line and receiver. Bringing DeSean Jackson back would be a good start for the offense.
- Jordan Matthews stepped up and played a great game at wide receiver, made several big catches. I can see Matthews assuming an even bigger role down the stretch, as QB Carson Wentz seems very comfortable with his old buddy. Matthews would do well as the slot receiver, if Nelson Agholor would move to outside receiver- unless the Birds do get a speed wide-out.
- The kicker and punter did their jobs today. Too many turnovers, especially by Wentz, almost killed the Eagles early. Too many times this season Philly has shot itself in the foot with turnovers and penalties. Not today.
- For Jacksonville, they drop to 3-5, two games behind Houston in AFC South. They just don't have the team they had last season when they went to the AFC Championship Game. No faith in the shaky QB Bortles. The Jags may be one team in the hunt for a new quarterback next spring.
- As a fan, London week was different. Fun seeing all the reports from England during the week, but I'm sure it would've been much more fun to actually be there. Can imagine hundreds, if not thousands of Eagles fans are winging their way home as I write, if not tomorrow.
Having a Birds game in the morning was odd too. Seeing the post-game show around lunchtime was screwed up. Can only wonder what a long two weeks it would have been if the Eagles lost.
I know having a London game is a pain, and football purists, like my friend Ray Didinger, hates the overseas games. But in a way, it is good PR for the league and each team. I seriously doubt there will ever be a foreign club in the NFL ( how would the travel and schedule work out?). But having three games in London a season isn't a killer ( as long as they never take a Philadelphia home game away). More than three games- even a game every single week in London, would be too much and dilute the special event that it is.
They got over 85,000 people into Wembley Stadium today. Why ruin it?
- So I was wrong. Rarely do I pick against the Eagles. I did this week, thinking last week's devastating loss to Carolina may be too much to overcome, concerns about the travel and time-difference too. Again, if the Birds were playing a better team than the Jaguars, it may have been a different story. Still, give the Eagles credit for starting on the comeback road, with an eye at the rival Cowboys ahead.
-Much-needed win, levels the birds at 4-4 with a bye next week. Still made plenty of mistakes and the Jags could've easily won the 24-18 game if they weren't so bad. Still, the win keeps the season alive with five NFC East division games still ahead.
Dallas awaits at the Linc in two weeks, on Sunday Night Football. Key contest, as Dallas may be 4-4 as well. Plus always a big game when the cowboys come to town. I'm sure the Linc will be rocking in two weeks- and I'll be there.
- Probably the worst news to come out of London was the Lane Johnson injury. Looks like the right tackle sprained his MCL, which means at least a month on the sidelines. This offensive line was shaky enough. More than ever, Coach Pederson needs to depend on the run.
--Will GM Howie Rossman be more inclined to make a deal or two before Wednesday's trade deadline? Holes are there, in the secondary (Jalan Mills was injured too, a foot injury, but he was walking after the game), O-line and receiver. Bringing DeSean Jackson back would be a good start for the offense.
- Jordan Matthews stepped up and played a great game at wide receiver, made several big catches. I can see Matthews assuming an even bigger role down the stretch, as QB Carson Wentz seems very comfortable with his old buddy. Matthews would do well as the slot receiver, if Nelson Agholor would move to outside receiver- unless the Birds do get a speed wide-out.
- The kicker and punter did their jobs today. Too many turnovers, especially by Wentz, almost killed the Eagles early. Too many times this season Philly has shot itself in the foot with turnovers and penalties. Not today.
- For Jacksonville, they drop to 3-5, two games behind Houston in AFC South. They just don't have the team they had last season when they went to the AFC Championship Game. No faith in the shaky QB Bortles. The Jags may be one team in the hunt for a new quarterback next spring.
- As a fan, London week was different. Fun seeing all the reports from England during the week, but I'm sure it would've been much more fun to actually be there. Can imagine hundreds, if not thousands of Eagles fans are winging their way home as I write, if not tomorrow.
Having a Birds game in the morning was odd too. Seeing the post-game show around lunchtime was screwed up. Can only wonder what a long two weeks it would have been if the Eagles lost.
I know having a London game is a pain, and football purists, like my friend Ray Didinger, hates the overseas games. But in a way, it is good PR for the league and each team. I seriously doubt there will ever be a foreign club in the NFL ( how would the travel and schedule work out?). But having three games in London a season isn't a killer ( as long as they never take a Philadelphia home game away). More than three games- even a game every single week in London, would be too much and dilute the special event that it is.
They got over 85,000 people into Wembley Stadium today. Why ruin it?
- So I was wrong. Rarely do I pick against the Eagles. I did this week, thinking last week's devastating loss to Carolina may be too much to overcome, concerns about the travel and time-difference too. Again, if the Birds were playing a better team than the Jaguars, it may have been a different story. Still, give the Eagles credit for starting on the comeback road, with an eye at the rival Cowboys ahead.
Saturday, October 27, 2018
MUSIC REVIEW- CHRISTMAS PARTY BY THE MONKEES
*** ( out of four stars)
The surviving Monkees- Mickey Dolenz, Peter Tork and Michael Neismith- just released their first-ever Christmas album, titled "Christmas Party." Most of it is fun and light-hearted, a nice mix of new, original holiday songs and two Christmas tunes previously recorded by the late Davy Jones.
"Unwrap You At Christmas" and "What Would Santa Do?" get the album off to a jolly start, with mickey singing lead vocal.He still has a strong voice and the music sounds current and fresh. The producer and songwriters from The Monkees' previous LP, "Good Times!", which proved to be a success.
The first Davy Jones' song appears with the Hawaiian-themed " Mele Kalikimaka", nicely done.
As usual, I didn't care much for the pair of Nesmith leads, "The Christmas Song" and "Snowfall." Both are country-flavored and both kind of drag. Tork is featured on "Angeles We Have Heard On High", and gives a valiant effort, but there's a reason why Mickey and Davy were always the two main lead vocalists on The Monkees,
The middle of the album is fun with original songs "Christmas Party" and "I Wish it Could be Christmas Everyday." Jones gives another easy, nice rendition of "Silver Bells",while Mickey covers the Paul McCartney-penned "Wonderful Christmastime."
The closer is "Merry Christmas, Baby", the Elvis Christmas, bluesy-rocker.
When The Monkees were at their best was when they didn't take themselves very seriously. They weren't the Beatles, but they were fun, with catchy songs. That's what this yuletide album is: fun with catchy songs. A nice add to your holiday play list!
The surviving Monkees- Mickey Dolenz, Peter Tork and Michael Neismith- just released their first-ever Christmas album, titled "Christmas Party." Most of it is fun and light-hearted, a nice mix of new, original holiday songs and two Christmas tunes previously recorded by the late Davy Jones.
"Unwrap You At Christmas" and "What Would Santa Do?" get the album off to a jolly start, with mickey singing lead vocal.He still has a strong voice and the music sounds current and fresh. The producer and songwriters from The Monkees' previous LP, "Good Times!", which proved to be a success.
The first Davy Jones' song appears with the Hawaiian-themed " Mele Kalikimaka", nicely done.
As usual, I didn't care much for the pair of Nesmith leads, "The Christmas Song" and "Snowfall." Both are country-flavored and both kind of drag. Tork is featured on "Angeles We Have Heard On High", and gives a valiant effort, but there's a reason why Mickey and Davy were always the two main lead vocalists on The Monkees,
The middle of the album is fun with original songs "Christmas Party" and "I Wish it Could be Christmas Everyday." Jones gives another easy, nice rendition of "Silver Bells",while Mickey covers the Paul McCartney-penned "Wonderful Christmastime."
The closer is "Merry Christmas, Baby", the Elvis Christmas, bluesy-rocker.
When The Monkees were at their best was when they didn't take themselves very seriously. They weren't the Beatles, but they were fun, with catchy songs. That's what this yuletide album is: fun with catchy songs. A nice add to your holiday play list!
PHILLIES PHODDER; MACHADO
Manny Machado again dogged-it last night during Game 3 of the World Series. He failed to run hard after crushing a ball off the left field wall. That lack of hustle..while your team is down, 2-0, in the World Series. This even before some team gives him around $300 million in free agency.
My oldest brother lives in Maryland and commented that Machado was a diva while playing with the Orioles. He didn't always hustle and ultimately decided he no longer wanted to play third base ( where he has excelled), instead preferring to play shortstop ( where he has not excelled).
I can't ever justify not hustling 100%. It should be a privledge to play major league baseball, plus look a tthe millions ballplayers make. Not hustling in Baltimore is one thing; not hustling in the World Series is another.
So, should the Phillies, once hot after Machado,persue him soon? I hope not, despite the fact he is a hell of a ballplayer. He is telling you that "I'm not Johnny Hustle- it's not my style."
How would the Philly fans react when Machado tanks it? It could get ugly, especially if Machado isn't playing well.
I would much rather have outfielder Bryce Harper. the left-handded hitting power outfielder. Harper can be a diva as well, but he hustles and would team with Hoskins in the middle of the line-up. He is also young, would force Hoskins back to first base ( a good thing), and will also command approxiately $300 million.
We will talk about the Phillies off-season moves soon, both free agency and trades. For now, I'll pass on Manny Machado.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- WORLD SERIES, EAGLES, SIXERS, FLYERS
- The longest game ever in World Series history was played until 3:30 am EST overnight. The Dodgers beat the Red Sox in 18 innings, winning with a walk-off homer by Max Muncy. LA is now down in the series 2-1.
Regardless of the twists and turns of the game, it's still ridiculous for a World series game to finish that late or early in the morning. Kids- the future fans of baseball- could not have been awake to watch the conclusion. I'm not sure what to do to solve the long games. Sure, an 18-inning contest is rare. Maybe start the game at 6:00 pm EST? I'm sure Baseball won't go back to day World Series games.Either way, Baseball is killing itself.
Despite the fact that Los Angeles saved itself with the late victory, I still think Boston wins one of the next two in LA and eventually wins the championship in six games at Fenway Park.
The Sixers play in south Philly tonight against Charlotte. Center Joel Embiid is questionable with an ankle injury. Philadelphia is trying to snap a two-game losing skid.
- The inconsistent Flyers open the doubleheader this afternoon at the Wells Fargo Center with a game against the Islanders. I'll give Coach Hakstol til December. If the Orange and Black are still floundering by then will it be time for a coaching change?
Regardless of the twists and turns of the game, it's still ridiculous for a World series game to finish that late or early in the morning. Kids- the future fans of baseball- could not have been awake to watch the conclusion. I'm not sure what to do to solve the long games. Sure, an 18-inning contest is rare. Maybe start the game at 6:00 pm EST? I'm sure Baseball won't go back to day World Series games.Either way, Baseball is killing itself.
Despite the fact that Los Angeles saved itself with the late victory, I still think Boston wins one of the next two in LA and eventually wins the championship in six games at Fenway Park.
The Sixers play in south Philly tonight against Charlotte. Center Joel Embiid is questionable with an ankle injury. Philadelphia is trying to snap a two-game losing skid.
- The inconsistent Flyers open the doubleheader this afternoon at the Wells Fargo Center with a game against the Islanders. I'll give Coach Hakstol til December. If the Orange and Black are still floundering by then will it be time for a coaching change?
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 27
Halloween costume Mascot March
Match the name of the mascot to the university:
A. Hairy Dog 1. Florida
B. Scratch 2. Nebraska
C. Testudo 3. Georgia Tech
D. Chip 4. Kansas
E. Big Jay 5. Kentucky
F. Buzz 6. Colorado
G. Herbie 7. UCLA
H. Albert 8. Georgia
I. Joe 9. Washington
J. Harry 10. Maryland
Answers: A8, B5, C10, D6, E4, F3, G2, H1, I7, J9
Match the name of the mascot to the university:
A. Hairy Dog 1. Florida
B. Scratch 2. Nebraska
C. Testudo 3. Georgia Tech
D. Chip 4. Kansas
E. Big Jay 5. Kentucky
F. Buzz 6. Colorado
G. Herbie 7. UCLA
H. Albert 8. Georgia
I. Joe 9. Washington
J. Harry 10. Maryland
Answers: A8, B5, C10, D6, E4, F3, G2, H1, I7, J9
Friday, October 26, 2018
NFL PREVIEW- WEEK 8
Mid-season already. Hard to believe. Seems like the season just started.Here are my comments on this weeks' games..
Houston beat Miami last night to stay atop of AFC South. Miami, once off to a fast start, sinks lower in AFC East behind New England.
Eagles vs Jaguars (in London)-
Must-win for both struggling teams. Jacksonville has played in London six times already, winning their last three games in England. They are used to the travel, the time difference and the routine. It remains to be seen how the Eagles handle things like jet-lag and the hype. One team will move to 4-4 and still remain alive in the season. The other will drop to 3-5 and face a long second half of the year.
Broncos at Chiefs-
Big AFC West clash. KC at home in Arrowhead Stadium should keep it rolling.
Browns at Steelers-
Cleveland is respectable this season. They played to a tie earlier this year. Pittsburgh can seize control of AFC North, with Cincinnati and Baltimore losing lately.I look for a big Steeler win.
Redskins at Giants-
Washington tries to hang onto the lead in weak NFC East while New York just tries to win a game. Eagle fans will be rooting for the G-men.
Seahawks at Lions-
Detroit remains inconsistent while Seattle remains in nowhere land. They aren't going to catch the Rams in NFC Wets, yet aren't good enough to consider a wild card berth.
Buccaneers at Bengals-
Cincy needs to right the ship after two bad losses the last few weeks. Tampa looks to be trading some assets soon, looking to another rebuild.
Jets at Bears-
Chicago still has life in NFC North, despite losing a big game at home to the Patriots. New York can hang with New England with a win at Soldier Field.
Ravens at Panthers-
Carolina can either feed off momentum of big comeback at Philadelphia last week, or they can have a big let-down after upsetting the Super Bowl champs. Remember, for the first three quarters the Panthers were inept. Meanwhile Baltimore lost a heart breaker at home to the Saints and now must regroup.
Colts at Raiders-
Meaningless game between two teams going nowhere, especially Oakland, who are trading away their best players for draft picks.
49ers at Cardinals-
Another awful game between losers in NFC West. Loser will have inside track on high draft pick next spring.
Packers at Rams-
interesting match-up between Aaron Rodgers and Jared Goff. The undefeated Rams would like to take care of business at home. Winning the NFC West and making the playoffs is a foregone conclusion for Los Angeles. Now it's seeding in the playoffs that matters. The Pack are trying to stay with suddenly-hot Minnesota.
Saints at Vikings-
Sunday Night game which could be a preview of NFC Championship? Saints eeked out road win in Baltimore last week. Big game for seeding in NFC.
Patriots at Bills-
Monday Night contest. Pats are used to playing in chilly weather. All or nothing game for bills.
My NFL picks this week ( record is 9-5 for season, 1-2 last week)
Packers +9.5
Panthers + 2.5
Houston beat Miami last night to stay atop of AFC South. Miami, once off to a fast start, sinks lower in AFC East behind New England.
Eagles vs Jaguars (in London)-
Must-win for both struggling teams. Jacksonville has played in London six times already, winning their last three games in England. They are used to the travel, the time difference and the routine. It remains to be seen how the Eagles handle things like jet-lag and the hype. One team will move to 4-4 and still remain alive in the season. The other will drop to 3-5 and face a long second half of the year.
Broncos at Chiefs-
Big AFC West clash. KC at home in Arrowhead Stadium should keep it rolling.
Browns at Steelers-
Cleveland is respectable this season. They played to a tie earlier this year. Pittsburgh can seize control of AFC North, with Cincinnati and Baltimore losing lately.I look for a big Steeler win.
Redskins at Giants-
Washington tries to hang onto the lead in weak NFC East while New York just tries to win a game. Eagle fans will be rooting for the G-men.
Seahawks at Lions-
Detroit remains inconsistent while Seattle remains in nowhere land. They aren't going to catch the Rams in NFC Wets, yet aren't good enough to consider a wild card berth.
Buccaneers at Bengals-
Cincy needs to right the ship after two bad losses the last few weeks. Tampa looks to be trading some assets soon, looking to another rebuild.
Jets at Bears-
Chicago still has life in NFC North, despite losing a big game at home to the Patriots. New York can hang with New England with a win at Soldier Field.
Ravens at Panthers-
Carolina can either feed off momentum of big comeback at Philadelphia last week, or they can have a big let-down after upsetting the Super Bowl champs. Remember, for the first three quarters the Panthers were inept. Meanwhile Baltimore lost a heart breaker at home to the Saints and now must regroup.
Colts at Raiders-
Meaningless game between two teams going nowhere, especially Oakland, who are trading away their best players for draft picks.
49ers at Cardinals-
Another awful game between losers in NFC West. Loser will have inside track on high draft pick next spring.
Packers at Rams-
interesting match-up between Aaron Rodgers and Jared Goff. The undefeated Rams would like to take care of business at home. Winning the NFC West and making the playoffs is a foregone conclusion for Los Angeles. Now it's seeding in the playoffs that matters. The Pack are trying to stay with suddenly-hot Minnesota.
Saints at Vikings-
Sunday Night game which could be a preview of NFC Championship? Saints eeked out road win in Baltimore last week. Big game for seeding in NFC.
Patriots at Bills-
Monday Night contest. Pats are used to playing in chilly weather. All or nothing game for bills.
My NFL picks this week ( record is 9-5 for season, 1-2 last week)
Packers +9.5
Panthers + 2.5
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 26
For the Glory
On October 27, 1973, Penn State running back John Cappelletti delivered four touchdowns as a birthday gift for his brother Joey, who was battling leukemia. Penn State crushed Bobby Bowden and West Virginia 62-14 at Happy Valley. Coach Paterno personally made sure ##22 delivered when he got word of the request by the ten-year-old younger brother of his gifted running back.
The effort by Cappelletti catapulted him into Heisman Trophy contention.
On October 27, 1973, Penn State running back John Cappelletti delivered four touchdowns as a birthday gift for his brother Joey, who was battling leukemia. Penn State crushed Bobby Bowden and West Virginia 62-14 at Happy Valley. Coach Paterno personally made sure ##22 delivered when he got word of the request by the ten-year-old younger brother of his gifted running back.
The effort by Cappelletti catapulted him into Heisman Trophy contention.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
IN THE NEWS- TV SHOWS FEATURING MORE CHARACTERS WITH DISABILITIES
From Disability Scoop..
The number of characters with disabilities on prime-time television this year is set to hit a record high.
There will be 18 regularly-appearing characters with disabilities on prime-time network shows during the 2018-2019 season, accounting for 2.1 percent of portrayals.
The count comes from a report released recently by GLAAD, a media advocacy organization for the gay and lesbian community. The group annually assess representation of minority groups- including people with disabilities- on television.
GLAAD looked at 857 characters expected to appear on scripted prime-time shows broadcast on ABC, CBS, The CW, FOX and NBC.
NBC will feature the greatest number of characters with disabilities at six, the report found., followed by The CW at four. ABC and CBS at three each and FOX at two. Characters include a physician with autism on "The Good Doctor," a teen with cerebral palsy on 'Speechless" and multiple shows featuring wheelchair users.
By comparison, last year's report found 16 characters with disabilities on prime-time television or 1.8 percent of those portrayed.
This year's number is the highest since GLAAD started tracking the prevalence of disabilities on television in 2010. Nonetheless, the report notes that disability representation on television remains far short of the true percentage of Americans with disabilities.
The number of characters with disabilities on prime-time television this year is set to hit a record high.
There will be 18 regularly-appearing characters with disabilities on prime-time network shows during the 2018-2019 season, accounting for 2.1 percent of portrayals.
The count comes from a report released recently by GLAAD, a media advocacy organization for the gay and lesbian community. The group annually assess representation of minority groups- including people with disabilities- on television.
GLAAD looked at 857 characters expected to appear on scripted prime-time shows broadcast on ABC, CBS, The CW, FOX and NBC.
NBC will feature the greatest number of characters with disabilities at six, the report found., followed by The CW at four. ABC and CBS at three each and FOX at two. Characters include a physician with autism on "The Good Doctor," a teen with cerebral palsy on 'Speechless" and multiple shows featuring wheelchair users.
By comparison, last year's report found 16 characters with disabilities on prime-time television or 1.8 percent of those portrayed.
This year's number is the highest since GLAAD started tracking the prevalence of disabilities on television in 2010. Nonetheless, the report notes that disability representation on television remains far short of the true percentage of Americans with disabilities.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES- JAGUARS- THE PICK
The Eagles are leaving for London, England today as they prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. The game starts at 9:30 am our time, 2:30 pm London time.
There should be a huge amount of Eagle fans across the pond, even if Jacksonville has become London's team. Since Jacksonville has problems selling out its home games, The Jags have gotten an England game every season. Advantage Jaguars for being used to the jet-lag, the time -change and routine. For Philadelphia it's a new experience, so it will be interesting to see how the players react.
Jags QB Blake Bortles was benched last week but is supposed to start against the Birds. Bortles is 3-0 in London games.Let's see if he is extra-motivated this week.
Both teams are 3-4 and it's not a stretch to say that the loser, dropping to 3-5, would be in big trouble. The Eagles would still have all of their division games to play. Winning the NFC East is probably the only way they will get into the playoffs this year. So an Eagle loss would not be totally devastating but wouldn't be good either. A defeat would mean Philly would need to go 6-2 in the second half of the season just to end up with a winning record.
A win would stabilize the birds at 4-4, with a bye week ahead, then Dallas invades the Linc on Sunday night Football on November 11th. With road games in New Orleans and Los Angeles ( vs the undefeated Rams)still ahead, the Eagles can ill-afford to lose to an equally sub-par club like Jacksonville.
Of course, penalties and turnovers will be key. How much do the Eagles want this game? Recent articles have indicated that the Birds don't seem as motivated. Why so many hamstring injuries/ Did they take the time and effort to work-out determinedly during the off-season? What about all the mental mistakes? Are players watching film and studying their playbooks?
The Eagles are Super bowl champs and are the better team. But don't forget that Jacksonville made it to the AFC Championship Game last season, losing in New England, in a game the Jags should've won. So their current season is just as disappointing.
I don't have a good feeling about this game. Philly is in turmoil. Who would've ever thought they would lose two straight home games to NFC rivals, especially blowing a 17-point lead in the 4th quarter to Carolina?Jacksonville is spiraling downward as well, with a shaky quarterback situation. I give an advantage to the Jags for London experience. They won't get caught up in all the hype and ceremonies.
If the Eagles lose this week will GM Howie Rossman finally pull the trigger on a deal/ Or will he hold onto all those precious draft picks, knowing a trade or two probably wouldn't fix the Eagles anyway.If they win they are still only an average squad at 4-4. Either way, I can't see Rossman sitting still. ( Bringing back WR DeSean Jackson from Tampa would be a good start).
As much as I hate to say it..I'm making it Jaguars 20 Eagles 17
There should be a huge amount of Eagle fans across the pond, even if Jacksonville has become London's team. Since Jacksonville has problems selling out its home games, The Jags have gotten an England game every season. Advantage Jaguars for being used to the jet-lag, the time -change and routine. For Philadelphia it's a new experience, so it will be interesting to see how the players react.
Jags QB Blake Bortles was benched last week but is supposed to start against the Birds. Bortles is 3-0 in London games.Let's see if he is extra-motivated this week.
Both teams are 3-4 and it's not a stretch to say that the loser, dropping to 3-5, would be in big trouble. The Eagles would still have all of their division games to play. Winning the NFC East is probably the only way they will get into the playoffs this year. So an Eagle loss would not be totally devastating but wouldn't be good either. A defeat would mean Philly would need to go 6-2 in the second half of the season just to end up with a winning record.
A win would stabilize the birds at 4-4, with a bye week ahead, then Dallas invades the Linc on Sunday night Football on November 11th. With road games in New Orleans and Los Angeles ( vs the undefeated Rams)still ahead, the Eagles can ill-afford to lose to an equally sub-par club like Jacksonville.
Of course, penalties and turnovers will be key. How much do the Eagles want this game? Recent articles have indicated that the Birds don't seem as motivated. Why so many hamstring injuries/ Did they take the time and effort to work-out determinedly during the off-season? What about all the mental mistakes? Are players watching film and studying their playbooks?
The Eagles are Super bowl champs and are the better team. But don't forget that Jacksonville made it to the AFC Championship Game last season, losing in New England, in a game the Jags should've won. So their current season is just as disappointing.
I don't have a good feeling about this game. Philly is in turmoil. Who would've ever thought they would lose two straight home games to NFC rivals, especially blowing a 17-point lead in the 4th quarter to Carolina?Jacksonville is spiraling downward as well, with a shaky quarterback situation. I give an advantage to the Jags for London experience. They won't get caught up in all the hype and ceremonies.
If the Eagles lose this week will GM Howie Rossman finally pull the trigger on a deal/ Or will he hold onto all those precious draft picks, knowing a trade or two probably wouldn't fix the Eagles anyway.If they win they are still only an average squad at 4-4. Either way, I can't see Rossman sitting still. ( Bringing back WR DeSean Jackson from Tampa would be a good start).
As much as I hate to say it..I'm making it Jaguars 20 Eagles 17
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- WORLD SERIES, SIXERS, EAGLES
- Boston won Game 2 of the World Series last night, taking a 2-0 lead over the Dodgers. I can't see LA coming back now. Even if the Dodgers sweep the three games in Los Angeles ( unlikely), they still need to take one in Boston. It ain't happening.
I expect the Red Sox to at least take one game in LA, then go back to Fenway Park and wrap-up the world championship. Wouldn't surprise me to see the Sox win it in California.
- The Sixers dropped to 2-3 last night with their loss to Milwaukee on the road. Back-to-back losses to Detroit and the Bucks. And I was thinking the only teams in the East to worry about were Boston and Toronto.
Markelle Fultz had another poor game, with a quiet five points. Looks like a bust to me.
- Marcus Hayes writes in this mornings' paper what I've been saying all along- the Eagles are not motivated this season. They are not hungry anymore. The desire is lacking. Fat and sassy. No wonder we haven't had a repeat Super Bowl champion in years.
Not only are the Birds the targets for every team on their schedule, without saying so, they are too satisfied with themselves. It shows in the many mental mistakes. They obviously didn't prepare well during the off=season, and now are not having good practices, which carries over to Sunday.
Yes, there are injuries, concerns with the defense, with play-calling, even with QB Carson Wentz himself. But the real issue is, and has been, do the Eagles want it bad enough again?
So far the answer is no.
I expect the Red Sox to at least take one game in LA, then go back to Fenway Park and wrap-up the world championship. Wouldn't surprise me to see the Sox win it in California.
- The Sixers dropped to 2-3 last night with their loss to Milwaukee on the road. Back-to-back losses to Detroit and the Bucks. And I was thinking the only teams in the East to worry about were Boston and Toronto.
Markelle Fultz had another poor game, with a quiet five points. Looks like a bust to me.
- Marcus Hayes writes in this mornings' paper what I've been saying all along- the Eagles are not motivated this season. They are not hungry anymore. The desire is lacking. Fat and sassy. No wonder we haven't had a repeat Super Bowl champion in years.
Not only are the Birds the targets for every team on their schedule, without saying so, they are too satisfied with themselves. It shows in the many mental mistakes. They obviously didn't prepare well during the off=season, and now are not having good practices, which carries over to Sunday.
Yes, there are injuries, concerns with the defense, with play-calling, even with QB Carson Wentz himself. But the real issue is, and has been, do the Eagles want it bad enough again?
So far the answer is no.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 25
Saddest Night in Sports
"What's the use of crying? The better man won. I guess everything happens for the best."
- Joe Louis
On this date in 1951, 28-year-old Rocky Marciano knocked out 37-year-old Joe Louis through the ropes in the 8th round, ending the sport's saddest night. When Louis came to Marciano's dressing room to congratulate him, Marciano wept.
"What's the use of crying? The better man won. I guess everything happens for the best."
- Joe Louis
On this date in 1951, 28-year-old Rocky Marciano knocked out 37-year-old Joe Louis through the ropes in the 8th round, ending the sport's saddest night. When Louis came to Marciano's dressing room to congratulate him, Marciano wept.
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- WORLD SERIES, SIXERS, EAGLES
- The Red Sox slugged their way to a 8-4 victory last night in Game 1 of the World Series. I can't see Dodger pitching shutitng down the powerful Boston bats. The red Sox are going to bludgeon their way to a world championship.
Give the Sox credit. They won a franchise-high 108 games this season. They beat the rival Yankees all summer , then defeated them in the playoffs. They beat the defending champs, the Astros. Now they take on the Dodgers and lead the series 1-0.
Los Angeles needs to win tonight at Fenway Park to split the series and give themselves a shot. If they lose and go down 0-2, even sweeping all three games in LA won't do it. They would still need to win one of two games in Boston. Stealing the game tonight eases some of the pressure and puts the pressure on the Red Sox.
The Dodgers have experience and flexibility in their line-up. But after Kershaw, I can't see another Dodger hurler holding Boston at bay for long.
- The Sixers lost a heartbreaker last night in Detroit, bowing to the Pistons in overtime, 133-132. Blake Griffin scored a career-high 50 points for Detroit, including a three-point game-winner.
Sixer defense must be a concern. So are injuries, a reason why I took the Sixers winning under 53 1/2 games this season. They aren't as deep, plus they have fragile players.
The team is starting No.1 overall pick Markelle Fultz but not plaiyng him in crunch time due to defensive liabilities. Makes no sense. I question having J. J. Reddick come off the bench.
Philly plays in Milwaukee tonight.
- More bad news for the Eagles: DE Derek Barnett , a big part of the defensive line, is out for the year with shoulder surgery. The Birds overcame injuries last season to win a Super Bowl, but there seems to be a different vibe in 2018.
3-4 Eagles vs 3-4 Jacksonville on Sunday morning from London.
Give the Sox credit. They won a franchise-high 108 games this season. They beat the rival Yankees all summer , then defeated them in the playoffs. They beat the defending champs, the Astros. Now they take on the Dodgers and lead the series 1-0.
Los Angeles needs to win tonight at Fenway Park to split the series and give themselves a shot. If they lose and go down 0-2, even sweeping all three games in LA won't do it. They would still need to win one of two games in Boston. Stealing the game tonight eases some of the pressure and puts the pressure on the Red Sox.
The Dodgers have experience and flexibility in their line-up. But after Kershaw, I can't see another Dodger hurler holding Boston at bay for long.
- The Sixers lost a heartbreaker last night in Detroit, bowing to the Pistons in overtime, 133-132. Blake Griffin scored a career-high 50 points for Detroit, including a three-point game-winner.
Sixer defense must be a concern. So are injuries, a reason why I took the Sixers winning under 53 1/2 games this season. They aren't as deep, plus they have fragile players.
The team is starting No.1 overall pick Markelle Fultz but not plaiyng him in crunch time due to defensive liabilities. Makes no sense. I question having J. J. Reddick come off the bench.
Philly plays in Milwaukee tonight.
- More bad news for the Eagles: DE Derek Barnett , a big part of the defensive line, is out for the year with shoulder surgery. The Birds overcame injuries last season to win a Super Bowl, but there seems to be a different vibe in 2018.
3-4 Eagles vs 3-4 Jacksonville on Sunday morning from London.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 24
Sitting Presidents
Who was the first President to attend a World Series game?
Answer: Woodrow Wilson became the first president to attend a World Series game when he attended Game 2 of the 1915 World Series.
Red Sox hurler Rube Foster held the Phillies to just three hits en route to a 2-1 victory and even the series 1-1.
Final score: Red Sox 2, Phillies 1 (Baker Bowl, Philadelphia, PA.).
Who was the first President to attend a World Series game?
Answer: Woodrow Wilson became the first president to attend a World Series game when he attended Game 2 of the 1915 World Series.
Red Sox hurler Rube Foster held the Phillies to just three hits en route to a 2-1 victory and even the series 1-1.
Final score: Red Sox 2, Phillies 1 (Baker Bowl, Philadelphia, PA.).
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL NEWS, FLYERS WORLD SERIES PICK
- Coach Doug Pederson acted very defensively at his Monday press conference, after the Eagles' stunning choke to Carolina Sunday afternoon at the Linc. Rightfully so, the media questioned his play-calling and the woeful 4th quarter defense. Pederson took on an attitude of, "You're not the coach..we know better..you don't know what it's like unless you are in our shoes..We won a Super Bowl, so we know better..Just shut-up."
I like my coaches/managers to be honest, not smart-ass. Stop with the excuses of "We're only talking about a couple of plays and we would be 5-2 instead.."
You are what your record says you are. Should've, could've, would've...The fact is that the Birds are 3-4 and deserve to be 3-4. The fact is that the defense did suck in the 4th quarter for whatever reason. The fact is that Pederson's play-calling was awful at the end of the game. The fact is that Carson Wentz choked in the final minutes. The fact is that the team seems not as motivated and hungry after winning the world championship.
- Now that Dallas got WR Cooper from Oakland for a 1st round draft pick to bolster their offense, the birds need tos seriously think about obtaining corner back Patrick Peterson from Arizona. Peterson wants out of Arizona and I anticipate the brutal Cardinals starting a fire-sale soon, ala the Raiders, and trading assets for draft picks. Peterson is an A-Pro and would be the shut-down corner Philly needs so bad, especially now that an explosive weapon like Cooper is in the NFC East.
It is reported that the Eagles offered a 2nd-rounder for Cooper last week. Cooper is still young ( only 24) and in his first two seasons has earned 1,000-yard seasons each year. He will make the cowboys better, and the Birds certainly could've used him.
They still need a speedy wide receiver. GM Howie Rossman needs to make a move to improve the club, and may be even more motivated to do so after watching his team implode against the Panthers.
- The Eagles are off to London on Friday morning. It won't be as pleasant of a trip, with the defending Super bowl champs having a losing record. Luckily they have a bye next week to rest. A loss against Jacksonville in England would be a tough pill to swallow before they return home on Sunday night, November 11th vs. Dallas.
- The inconsistent Flyers lost at home again last night, falling to Colorado. Again, this squad isn't going anywhere without a No. 1 true goalie and a different coach. Can't GM Hexstall and Flyers' management see that?
- The Dodgers and Red Sox play Game 1 of the World Series tonight in chilly Boston. Both teams are filled with stars. LA has the experience while the Sox won 108 games and recently defeated the defending world champion Astros to reach the Fall Classic. The only time these two franchises have ever met in a World Series was back in 1916 when the Brooklyn franchise wasn't even known as the Dodgers yet.
I like Boston in six games. I expect a split at Fenway park, with the Red Sox winning two of three at Dodger Stadium this weekend.
Having the Dodgers back in the World Series is magical and reminds me of being a baseball fan as a kid. Back then it seemed like LA was always National League champs, with Koufax and Drysdale pitching. Despite the fact that the St. Louis Cardinals have actually won more titles than the Dodgers, the Dodgers still have a certain mystique about them, going form their Brooklyn days with Newcombe and Jackie Robinson, to Koufax, Garvey, Hershiser and now Kershaw. Dodger Dogs, Dodger blue, Tommy LaSorta and Vin Scully. All the celebrities in the stands at Dodger Stadium every night. The pitcher's mound in Dodger Stadium being so high, too high but rarely questioned.
Having the Red Sox in the World Series reminds me of the 60s with Carl Yaztremski, Tony Coligiaro and Jim Rice. It reminds me of the ball going between Bill Buckner's legs against the Mets in the 80s, of Pedro Martinez and their very first world championship after so many years, even before my time, of Carlton Fisk and his famous home run vs the Big Red Machine, Pete Rose and Cincinnati in the 70s, to the great Ted Williams.
I haven't watched much of the playoffs but I think I will check out the series between two great teams and historic organizations.
Lastly, it will be interesting to see if Chase Utley is available and active to play. It wouldn't be a bad thing to see Utley get another ring before he retires.
I like my coaches/managers to be honest, not smart-ass. Stop with the excuses of "We're only talking about a couple of plays and we would be 5-2 instead.."
You are what your record says you are. Should've, could've, would've...The fact is that the Birds are 3-4 and deserve to be 3-4. The fact is that the defense did suck in the 4th quarter for whatever reason. The fact is that Pederson's play-calling was awful at the end of the game. The fact is that Carson Wentz choked in the final minutes. The fact is that the team seems not as motivated and hungry after winning the world championship.
- Now that Dallas got WR Cooper from Oakland for a 1st round draft pick to bolster their offense, the birds need tos seriously think about obtaining corner back Patrick Peterson from Arizona. Peterson wants out of Arizona and I anticipate the brutal Cardinals starting a fire-sale soon, ala the Raiders, and trading assets for draft picks. Peterson is an A-Pro and would be the shut-down corner Philly needs so bad, especially now that an explosive weapon like Cooper is in the NFC East.
It is reported that the Eagles offered a 2nd-rounder for Cooper last week. Cooper is still young ( only 24) and in his first two seasons has earned 1,000-yard seasons each year. He will make the cowboys better, and the Birds certainly could've used him.
They still need a speedy wide receiver. GM Howie Rossman needs to make a move to improve the club, and may be even more motivated to do so after watching his team implode against the Panthers.
- The Eagles are off to London on Friday morning. It won't be as pleasant of a trip, with the defending Super bowl champs having a losing record. Luckily they have a bye next week to rest. A loss against Jacksonville in England would be a tough pill to swallow before they return home on Sunday night, November 11th vs. Dallas.
- The inconsistent Flyers lost at home again last night, falling to Colorado. Again, this squad isn't going anywhere without a No. 1 true goalie and a different coach. Can't GM Hexstall and Flyers' management see that?
- The Dodgers and Red Sox play Game 1 of the World Series tonight in chilly Boston. Both teams are filled with stars. LA has the experience while the Sox won 108 games and recently defeated the defending world champion Astros to reach the Fall Classic. The only time these two franchises have ever met in a World Series was back in 1916 when the Brooklyn franchise wasn't even known as the Dodgers yet.
I like Boston in six games. I expect a split at Fenway park, with the Red Sox winning two of three at Dodger Stadium this weekend.
Having the Dodgers back in the World Series is magical and reminds me of being a baseball fan as a kid. Back then it seemed like LA was always National League champs, with Koufax and Drysdale pitching. Despite the fact that the St. Louis Cardinals have actually won more titles than the Dodgers, the Dodgers still have a certain mystique about them, going form their Brooklyn days with Newcombe and Jackie Robinson, to Koufax, Garvey, Hershiser and now Kershaw. Dodger Dogs, Dodger blue, Tommy LaSorta and Vin Scully. All the celebrities in the stands at Dodger Stadium every night. The pitcher's mound in Dodger Stadium being so high, too high but rarely questioned.
Having the Red Sox in the World Series reminds me of the 60s with Carl Yaztremski, Tony Coligiaro and Jim Rice. It reminds me of the ball going between Bill Buckner's legs against the Mets in the 80s, of Pedro Martinez and their very first world championship after so many years, even before my time, of Carlton Fisk and his famous home run vs the Big Red Machine, Pete Rose and Cincinnati in the 70s, to the great Ted Williams.
I haven't watched much of the playoffs but I think I will check out the series between two great teams and historic organizations.
Lastly, it will be interesting to see if Chase Utley is available and active to play. It wouldn't be a bad thing to see Utley get another ring before he retires.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 23
Touch 'em all Trivia
Today is the 25-year anniversary of Joe Carter's historic 3-run home run that lifted the Toronto Blue Jays over the Phillies, ending the 1993 World Series. Who were the two future Hall of Famers who were on base?
Answer: Rickey Henderson and Paul Molitor
Today is the 25-year anniversary of Joe Carter's historic 3-run home run that lifted the Toronto Blue Jays over the Phillies, ending the 1993 World Series. Who were the two future Hall of Famers who were on base?
Answer: Rickey Henderson and Paul Molitor
Monday, October 22, 2018
NFL REVIEW- WEEK 7
The Falcons host the Giants tonight on Monday Night Football. Here's a review of Week 7..
Broncos over Cardinals-
Arizona has packed it in while Denver tries to cling to life in AFC West.The Broncos travel to red-hot Kansas City this weekend while the Cardinals host the 49ers.
Panthers over Eagles-
Carolina moves to 4-2 with the stunning upset while the Birds drop to 3-4. Philly heads to London to face Jacksonville, while the Panthers go home to take on Baltimore.
Chargers over Titans-
In London, LA won again, staying right behind the Chiefs. The Tennessee coach went brain-dead by attempting a 2-point conversion at the end instead of going into overtime.LA has a bye this week while the Titans also have a bye.
Patriots over Bears-
Chicago blew it at home against New England and proved they are not yet ready for prime time. The Pats escape and take over the lead in AFC East. The Bears host the Jets this week while New England heads to chilly Buffalo
Colts over Bills-
In a meaningless game, Indy destroyed the Bills. Both teams are going nowhere fast. Indianapolis goes to Oakland while Buffalo hosts the Patriots this week.
Lions over Dolphins-
Detroit is wildly inconsistent, beating the Dolphins in Miami, while the Fish slip out of first place in AFC East. The Lions host Seattle while Miami hits the road to suddenly hot Houston.
Vikings over Jets-
Minnesota pounded New York as the Vikings take control of NFC North. The inconsistent Jets travels to Chicago.
Buccaneers over Browns-
Tampa wins in overtime but in reality, they are going nowhere. Neither is the Browns, but they are improved.
Texans over Jaguars-
Houston is now in 1st place in AFC South, while the Jags crumble. Key division game. Jacksonville flies to London to face the Eagles while Houston hosts the Dolphins.
Saints over Ravens-
Baltimore kicker misses first extra point at end allowing Drew Brees and New Orleans to escape with a win. The Ravens go to Carolina this weekend while the Saints go to Minnesota for a playoff rematch.
Rams over 49ers-
The Rams roll, crushing San Francisco and going to 7-0. SF is starting to feel the loss of their starting QB. LA tries to remain perfect as they host Green Bay next week while the Niners travel to the desert to play equally-lowly Arizona
Redskins over Cowboys-
Washington survives at home and remains on top[ of NFC East, The Skins play the Giants in New York while Dallas, now 3-4, takes their bye.
Chiefs over Bengals-
KC returns to the win column and look to be on a playoff collision course with New England. Cincinnati loses two in a row and allows Pittsburgh to jump back into the AFC North race.
Broncos over Cardinals-
Arizona has packed it in while Denver tries to cling to life in AFC West.The Broncos travel to red-hot Kansas City this weekend while the Cardinals host the 49ers.
Panthers over Eagles-
Carolina moves to 4-2 with the stunning upset while the Birds drop to 3-4. Philly heads to London to face Jacksonville, while the Panthers go home to take on Baltimore.
Chargers over Titans-
In London, LA won again, staying right behind the Chiefs. The Tennessee coach went brain-dead by attempting a 2-point conversion at the end instead of going into overtime.LA has a bye this week while the Titans also have a bye.
Patriots over Bears-
Chicago blew it at home against New England and proved they are not yet ready for prime time. The Pats escape and take over the lead in AFC East. The Bears host the Jets this week while New England heads to chilly Buffalo
Colts over Bills-
In a meaningless game, Indy destroyed the Bills. Both teams are going nowhere fast. Indianapolis goes to Oakland while Buffalo hosts the Patriots this week.
Lions over Dolphins-
Detroit is wildly inconsistent, beating the Dolphins in Miami, while the Fish slip out of first place in AFC East. The Lions host Seattle while Miami hits the road to suddenly hot Houston.
Vikings over Jets-
Minnesota pounded New York as the Vikings take control of NFC North. The inconsistent Jets travels to Chicago.
Buccaneers over Browns-
Tampa wins in overtime but in reality, they are going nowhere. Neither is the Browns, but they are improved.
Texans over Jaguars-
Houston is now in 1st place in AFC South, while the Jags crumble. Key division game. Jacksonville flies to London to face the Eagles while Houston hosts the Dolphins.
Saints over Ravens-
Baltimore kicker misses first extra point at end allowing Drew Brees and New Orleans to escape with a win. The Ravens go to Carolina this weekend while the Saints go to Minnesota for a playoff rematch.
Rams over 49ers-
The Rams roll, crushing San Francisco and going to 7-0. SF is starting to feel the loss of their starting QB. LA tries to remain perfect as they host Green Bay next week while the Niners travel to the desert to play equally-lowly Arizona
Redskins over Cowboys-
Washington survives at home and remains on top[ of NFC East, The Skins play the Giants in New York while Dallas, now 3-4, takes their bye.
Chiefs over Bengals-
KC returns to the win column and look to be on a playoff collision course with New England. Cincinnati loses two in a row and allows Pittsburgh to jump back into the AFC North race.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 22
Monday Night Flashback
Colts 38, Buccaneers 35 (OT)
In the greatest comeback on Monday Night Football and maybe NFL history, Peyton manning rallies the Indianapolis Colts to a wild 38-35 overtime victory over defending Super Bowl Champion Tampa Bay on Tony Dungy's birthday and return to Tampa Bay. With 3:43 remaining, Indianapolis was down and out, trailing 35-14.
Colts 38, Buccaneers 35 (OT)
In the greatest comeback on Monday Night Football and maybe NFL history, Peyton manning rallies the Indianapolis Colts to a wild 38-35 overtime victory over defending Super Bowl Champion Tampa Bay on Tony Dungy's birthday and return to Tampa Bay. With 3:43 remaining, Indianapolis was down and out, trailing 35-14.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES; PANTHERS RECAP
My comments on the devastating Eagles' loss to Carolina. Blowing a 17-point lead at home in the 4th quarter to an NFC rival is unacceptable. No excuses. The Eagles drop to 3-4 with a trip to London this week to face the equally-struggling Jacksonville Jaguars.
-I've said it before here, in my blog. There is a reason why teams don't repeat as Super Bowl champs, let alone win back-to-back NFC East titles. Are the Eagles fat and sassy? Too many books written, too many celebrations? Even with a 17-point lead entering the final quarter special teams guys were yakking it up in the end zone. As a few Panthers commented after the game, the Eagles thought they had us and eased up...
The Eagles are full of themselves. Yes, there were many problems on Sunday afternoon, as we will discuss, from play-calling to the defense. But the team doesn't look hungry anymore. The desire and motivation isn't there, not like last season.
It's only natural. Players are human. Maybe they didn't train or study as hard during the off-season ( is that why there are so many hamstring problems now?). Is that why veterans like Chris Long ( who has disappeared) warned about forgetting the Super Bowl and last season and totally focus on this year?
- In 155 games with the Eagles up 17 or more points heading into the 4th quarter, the Birds had only lost twice. Make it three times after choking against Carolina yesterday.
-Psychologically, how does a team come back form such a devastating defeat? It's true- the Eagles can still win the NFC East and make the playoffs. But will they go far in the playoffs without home field advantage? Is it time to stick a fork in 'em?
Losing gives you a better draft pick as this aging team gets older. Philly has a boatload of draft picks next spring, including two second-rounders.
- There was no competition for kicker Jake Elliot during training camp. Despite making a crucial 61-yarder against the Giants last season, Elliot had been prone to miss easier field goals and extra points. That tendency reared its ugly head again Sunday as Elliot missed a very make able 36-yard field goal.
True, the wind was tricky going that way. Still, a professional kicker can't miss a 36-yarder.
- Is it fair to ask: were the Eagles a flash in the pan in 2018? Is this the real Eagles? Were the Birds just lucky to win the Super bowl? No, I don't think so. They were a really good team last season, despite the injuries ( that's why you can't make injuries the excuse this year).
This team is not the same team which won the world championship. Certain players left via free agency. Key coaches, especially Frank Reich, left for better opportunities ( I think Coach Pederson misses the common sense approach of Reich). Other players are hurt and all have aged, some more rapidly than others.
Simply put, its not the same team.
- A horrible sequence was during the final drive. After an 8-yard gain by running back Smallwood, with only two yards to go for a new set of downs, with the ball near the Carolina 10, instead of picking up the huge first down and getting four more tries with approxiately 30 seconds remaining and two time-outs, the Eagles threw the ball. Two incompletions and the game was over.
Why not call two running plays, get the first down, then take four shots into the end zone to win the game?
- Despite the poor defense in the 4th quarter, the offense needs to score more than 17 points at home.
- The 2-point conversion by the Panthers late i the game was critical. It forced the Eagles to score a touchdown during the final drive.
- Defensively, the Eagles sucked in the 4th quarter. As always, they played too soft in the secondary. Not enough pass rush, QB Cam Newton stood in the pocket and picked apart the defense. No blitzing, as is Defense Coordinator Jim Schwartz' M.O.
Speaking of Schwartz, I have never been a fan. He's no Jim Johnson, plus he's arrogant ( he refuses to talk to the media, as well as his own players, right after a game). His defense gave up over 600 yards in the Super Bowl. I hate his "bent but don't break philosophy. He's not aggressive enough. Soon his players take on a passive mentality. The Eagles could do so much better with another coordinator ( Seth Joiner?).
Jalan Mills needs to go. The coaches claimed they "owed" it to mills, a 7th round draft pick, to play him, despite weekly beatings. What about the fans? Don't the coaches owe it to the loyal fans not to play Mills?
We are seeing why the Bills traded Ronald Darby. How can players consistently bite on the double-move? Either they are learning form their mistakes or aren't being coached to learn. I don't see any improvement in the secondary.
- Does the collapse spur GM Howie Rossman to make a move before the trade deadline? This club has holes, enough to fill by season's end? You want to build for the future and collect those golden draft picks, yet you've gone all-in and that window to repeat as champs may be quickly closing.
So Rossman walks a fine line. He's got to get some help for his struggling squad yet he must also keep an eye on the future. He needs another running back, a speedy wide receiver, help in the secondary and on both lines. Special teams isn't so special anymore, aside from the punter.
Will Rossman make a move?
- Pederson needs to be criticized for calling 14 plays in the 4th quarter- 12 of them pass plays. Don't you throw to get a lead, then run the ball to take time off the clock at the end? With coaches Reich and DeFillipo gone, Pederson has no one to keep him balanced regarding play-calling and running the ball.
Seemed like Pederson reverted back to his days with time-management challenged Andy Reid in Kansas City.
- Pederson says the "pressure is off" now. What a stupid comment! If anything the pressure is higher. Maybe pressure is a good thing. If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen. Instead of pampering or coddling the fat and sassy players, maybe they need a kick in the ass?
- Wentz failed at the end. But it's not the first time Wentz has choked when it was time to win a game. He's no Brett Favre. He's a great, young player, certainly the least of problems, but let's be honest- even with the defense breaking down the Birds still had a chance to win in the final seconds and couldn't seal the deal, primarily because Wentz turtled-up with the game on the line.
- So, what does it all mean? the Eagles are 3-4, embarrassing for a Super Bowl champion, behind 4-2 Washington and tied with Dallas. Off to jolly ol' England the Birds fly on a not-so-merry trip, to face Jacksonville. Another loss and the season really is doomed ( even though the birds still have all of their division games remaining). Win and you are back to being an average team, with a bye, coming back to play the cowboys at the Linc on Sunday Night football.
I want to believe, just like last year, yet I find it hard to believe this team can overcome such a bad loss. Remember, they still have trips to New Orleans and Los Angeles left. They must steal a game somewhere along the road.
The coach has all but dismissed the possibility of gaining the first or even second bye and seed in any playoff scenario. Heck, this team is going to struggle to make the playoffs, period. At least he is keeping it real in that aspect. The best this current nest of Birds can do is win the NFC east, get a home playoff game and go from there.
After winning the ultimate prize and making it to the Super bowl, anything less seems... disappointing and frustrating. Sadly, that's what we have to look forward to for the next several months....
-I've said it before here, in my blog. There is a reason why teams don't repeat as Super Bowl champs, let alone win back-to-back NFC East titles. Are the Eagles fat and sassy? Too many books written, too many celebrations? Even with a 17-point lead entering the final quarter special teams guys were yakking it up in the end zone. As a few Panthers commented after the game, the Eagles thought they had us and eased up...
The Eagles are full of themselves. Yes, there were many problems on Sunday afternoon, as we will discuss, from play-calling to the defense. But the team doesn't look hungry anymore. The desire and motivation isn't there, not like last season.
It's only natural. Players are human. Maybe they didn't train or study as hard during the off-season ( is that why there are so many hamstring problems now?). Is that why veterans like Chris Long ( who has disappeared) warned about forgetting the Super Bowl and last season and totally focus on this year?
- In 155 games with the Eagles up 17 or more points heading into the 4th quarter, the Birds had only lost twice. Make it three times after choking against Carolina yesterday.
-Psychologically, how does a team come back form such a devastating defeat? It's true- the Eagles can still win the NFC East and make the playoffs. But will they go far in the playoffs without home field advantage? Is it time to stick a fork in 'em?
Losing gives you a better draft pick as this aging team gets older. Philly has a boatload of draft picks next spring, including two second-rounders.
- There was no competition for kicker Jake Elliot during training camp. Despite making a crucial 61-yarder against the Giants last season, Elliot had been prone to miss easier field goals and extra points. That tendency reared its ugly head again Sunday as Elliot missed a very make able 36-yard field goal.
True, the wind was tricky going that way. Still, a professional kicker can't miss a 36-yarder.
- Is it fair to ask: were the Eagles a flash in the pan in 2018? Is this the real Eagles? Were the Birds just lucky to win the Super bowl? No, I don't think so. They were a really good team last season, despite the injuries ( that's why you can't make injuries the excuse this year).
This team is not the same team which won the world championship. Certain players left via free agency. Key coaches, especially Frank Reich, left for better opportunities ( I think Coach Pederson misses the common sense approach of Reich). Other players are hurt and all have aged, some more rapidly than others.
Simply put, its not the same team.
- A horrible sequence was during the final drive. After an 8-yard gain by running back Smallwood, with only two yards to go for a new set of downs, with the ball near the Carolina 10, instead of picking up the huge first down and getting four more tries with approxiately 30 seconds remaining and two time-outs, the Eagles threw the ball. Two incompletions and the game was over.
Why not call two running plays, get the first down, then take four shots into the end zone to win the game?
- Despite the poor defense in the 4th quarter, the offense needs to score more than 17 points at home.
- The 2-point conversion by the Panthers late i the game was critical. It forced the Eagles to score a touchdown during the final drive.
- Defensively, the Eagles sucked in the 4th quarter. As always, they played too soft in the secondary. Not enough pass rush, QB Cam Newton stood in the pocket and picked apart the defense. No blitzing, as is Defense Coordinator Jim Schwartz' M.O.
Speaking of Schwartz, I have never been a fan. He's no Jim Johnson, plus he's arrogant ( he refuses to talk to the media, as well as his own players, right after a game). His defense gave up over 600 yards in the Super Bowl. I hate his "bent but don't break philosophy. He's not aggressive enough. Soon his players take on a passive mentality. The Eagles could do so much better with another coordinator ( Seth Joiner?).
Jalan Mills needs to go. The coaches claimed they "owed" it to mills, a 7th round draft pick, to play him, despite weekly beatings. What about the fans? Don't the coaches owe it to the loyal fans not to play Mills?
We are seeing why the Bills traded Ronald Darby. How can players consistently bite on the double-move? Either they are learning form their mistakes or aren't being coached to learn. I don't see any improvement in the secondary.
- Does the collapse spur GM Howie Rossman to make a move before the trade deadline? This club has holes, enough to fill by season's end? You want to build for the future and collect those golden draft picks, yet you've gone all-in and that window to repeat as champs may be quickly closing.
So Rossman walks a fine line. He's got to get some help for his struggling squad yet he must also keep an eye on the future. He needs another running back, a speedy wide receiver, help in the secondary and on both lines. Special teams isn't so special anymore, aside from the punter.
Will Rossman make a move?
- Pederson needs to be criticized for calling 14 plays in the 4th quarter- 12 of them pass plays. Don't you throw to get a lead, then run the ball to take time off the clock at the end? With coaches Reich and DeFillipo gone, Pederson has no one to keep him balanced regarding play-calling and running the ball.
Seemed like Pederson reverted back to his days with time-management challenged Andy Reid in Kansas City.
- Pederson says the "pressure is off" now. What a stupid comment! If anything the pressure is higher. Maybe pressure is a good thing. If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen. Instead of pampering or coddling the fat and sassy players, maybe they need a kick in the ass?
- Wentz failed at the end. But it's not the first time Wentz has choked when it was time to win a game. He's no Brett Favre. He's a great, young player, certainly the least of problems, but let's be honest- even with the defense breaking down the Birds still had a chance to win in the final seconds and couldn't seal the deal, primarily because Wentz turtled-up with the game on the line.
- So, what does it all mean? the Eagles are 3-4, embarrassing for a Super Bowl champion, behind 4-2 Washington and tied with Dallas. Off to jolly ol' England the Birds fly on a not-so-merry trip, to face Jacksonville. Another loss and the season really is doomed ( even though the birds still have all of their division games remaining). Win and you are back to being an average team, with a bye, coming back to play the cowboys at the Linc on Sunday Night football.
I want to believe, just like last year, yet I find it hard to believe this team can overcome such a bad loss. Remember, they still have trips to New Orleans and Los Angeles left. They must steal a game somewhere along the road.
The coach has all but dismissed the possibility of gaining the first or even second bye and seed in any playoff scenario. Heck, this team is going to struggle to make the playoffs, period. At least he is keeping it real in that aspect. The best this current nest of Birds can do is win the NFC east, get a home playoff game and go from there.
After winning the ultimate prize and making it to the Super bowl, anything less seems... disappointing and frustrating. Sadly, that's what we have to look forward to for the next several months....
Sunday, October 21, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, FLYERS, SIXERS, EAGLES, PHILLIES
- The Dodgers won Game 7 of the national League Championship Series and repeated as NL champs, moving onto the World series, which starts Tuesday in Boston.
LA had an interesting season, after their monster season in 2017. Early on, they were 10 games behind Arizona in NL West, climbing back and overtaking the Diamondbacks and Rockies, beating the young Braves in the first round of the playoffs.
Who to root for? Bosotn already has too many sports titles, even though the Red Sox won 108 games this summer and dominated their division from start to finish. On the other hand, Los Angeles is the glitzy, slick franchise. Both organizations are rich in World Series history but oddly have never played each other in the post season.
I'll probably be rooting for Dodger Blue and Chase Utley to get another ring, but the Red Sox should win another world championship in six games with home field advantage.
- The Flyers beat rival New Jersey, 5-2 at the Wells Fargo Center. Winning the next game and putting together a streak is key, as so far this year, inconsistency has been the nemesis of this team.
- The Sixers blew a 15-point lead and hung on to defeat the Magic 116-115 at the Center. Ben Simmons left early with back spasms and didn't return.
- The Eagles play Carolina at the Linc in a few hours. my pick is Birds 23 Panthers 14. It's a windy, chilly morning. The Birds need this NFC game to go to 4-3 on the year. It's a home game, one not to lose, especially keeping in mind Philly still needs to travel to New Orleans and Los Angeles for tough games with the Saints and Rams.
- The more I think about it, and listen to Manny Machado, the more I don't want the Phillies to sign him. Apparently he has always been somewhat of a diva, even while playing in Baltimore. Recently he has stated that he isn't "Johnny Hustle" even before someone gives Machado $300 million or more. He is already warning teams that he may not hustle all the time. He's a hell of a ballplayer but wants things on his terms.
Take for instance the fact that Machado is a superb third baseman, yet insists on playing shortstop. He is a below-average shortstop. The Orioles have bowed to his preference. Sp has the Dodgers. The Phillies need upgrades at both positions but Machado could be the tremendous third baseman they haven't had for a long time, with Kingery or someone else playing short. But would Machado suddenly agree to play only third?
To me, it's a no-brainer. You already have one diva on the team- Odubel Herrera, who will hopefully be traded this off=season. What message does it send to the other young players to bring in Machado and have him dictate to management and the coaches?
Get Bruce Harper instead. He would look good hitting beside Rhys Hoskins in the line-up. Harper can be a diva too but it doesn't seem he is as bad as Machado is, or has been, even before he hits the jackpot in free agency.
LA had an interesting season, after their monster season in 2017. Early on, they were 10 games behind Arizona in NL West, climbing back and overtaking the Diamondbacks and Rockies, beating the young Braves in the first round of the playoffs.
Who to root for? Bosotn already has too many sports titles, even though the Red Sox won 108 games this summer and dominated their division from start to finish. On the other hand, Los Angeles is the glitzy, slick franchise. Both organizations are rich in World Series history but oddly have never played each other in the post season.
I'll probably be rooting for Dodger Blue and Chase Utley to get another ring, but the Red Sox should win another world championship in six games with home field advantage.
- The Flyers beat rival New Jersey, 5-2 at the Wells Fargo Center. Winning the next game and putting together a streak is key, as so far this year, inconsistency has been the nemesis of this team.
- The Sixers blew a 15-point lead and hung on to defeat the Magic 116-115 at the Center. Ben Simmons left early with back spasms and didn't return.
- The Eagles play Carolina at the Linc in a few hours. my pick is Birds 23 Panthers 14. It's a windy, chilly morning. The Birds need this NFC game to go to 4-3 on the year. It's a home game, one not to lose, especially keeping in mind Philly still needs to travel to New Orleans and Los Angeles for tough games with the Saints and Rams.
- The more I think about it, and listen to Manny Machado, the more I don't want the Phillies to sign him. Apparently he has always been somewhat of a diva, even while playing in Baltimore. Recently he has stated that he isn't "Johnny Hustle" even before someone gives Machado $300 million or more. He is already warning teams that he may not hustle all the time. He's a hell of a ballplayer but wants things on his terms.
Take for instance the fact that Machado is a superb third baseman, yet insists on playing shortstop. He is a below-average shortstop. The Orioles have bowed to his preference. Sp has the Dodgers. The Phillies need upgrades at both positions but Machado could be the tremendous third baseman they haven't had for a long time, with Kingery or someone else playing short. But would Machado suddenly agree to play only third?
To me, it's a no-brainer. You already have one diva on the team- Odubel Herrera, who will hopefully be traded this off=season. What message does it send to the other young players to bring in Machado and have him dictate to management and the coaches?
Get Bruce Harper instead. He would look good hitting beside Rhys Hoskins in the line-up. Harper can be a diva too but it doesn't seem he is as bad as Machado is, or has been, even before he hits the jackpot in free agency.
MOVIE REVIEW- OLD MAN AND A GUN
Old Man and a Gun *** ( out of four stars)
At 82, movie icon Robert Redford has decided to retire from acting and focus on directing. His final film is out now, called Old Man and a Gun, based on a true story. I saw the movie Saturday night at the beautiful, historic Colonial Theater in Phoenixville.
Redford plays a career criminal who is a gentleman bandit older adult, a guy who robs banks in broad daylight with only the hint of a gun inside his jacket and a smile. Everything is tongue-in-cheek and good, swiftly-paced fun.
There are stories within the main story of a 74-year-old gentleman who robs banks. They are family dynamics , both with Redford's character, and the lead detective who tries to crack the case and finally catch the old guy, after years of robbing and being on the lam. The cop is played is his typical laid-back approached by Casey Affleck.
Redford meets a widow named Jewel, played by Sissy Spacek, who changes his life but not his thieving ways. There are twists and turns along the way. You cheer for Redford's Robin Hood-like character, fascinated about why and how he does each robbery and escape. He's a nice guy and likeable, not a creepy lowlife criminal. We know he deserves to get caught and pay his debt to society, yet I found myself rooting for the guy.
Interesting watching Redford act. He's smooth, a real pro, and laughs at himself. Old photos and even film of Redford in his younger days are weaved into the story and makes it more personal and believable. Redford, despite the various wrinkles in his weather-worn face, still has a leathery, handsome, rugged persona.Sometimes it's hard to watch him, remembering how truly handsome he once was knowing the aging process is bound to wear us all down at some point. Kudos to Redord for growing old gracefully and not selling out on creepy surgery Even an older, aging Redford is still preferable compared to a surgical, tight-skinned star who can't accept growing old gracefully
The film had me guessing right to the end. There was still some unanswered questions left to debate. You will think about the story later .
I'll miss Redford. I especially loved him in The Natural and The Sting. Gone will be yet another actor I grew up with. Redford is perfect for this final role. I can't imagine anyone playing it now. Watching Old man and a Gun may encourage you to go on a Robert Redford marathon and check out some of his great older flicks.
I'm glad he is going out on top and hope the movie does well, and just maybe, Redford will earn a nomination from the Academy for Best Actor. Hard to believe he has only one Oscar in his career, that for Directing ( Ordinary People in the early 80s). This performance may not be good to win, but Redford deserves the recognition one last time.
At 82, movie icon Robert Redford has decided to retire from acting and focus on directing. His final film is out now, called Old Man and a Gun, based on a true story. I saw the movie Saturday night at the beautiful, historic Colonial Theater in Phoenixville.
Redford plays a career criminal who is a gentleman bandit older adult, a guy who robs banks in broad daylight with only the hint of a gun inside his jacket and a smile. Everything is tongue-in-cheek and good, swiftly-paced fun.
There are stories within the main story of a 74-year-old gentleman who robs banks. They are family dynamics , both with Redford's character, and the lead detective who tries to crack the case and finally catch the old guy, after years of robbing and being on the lam. The cop is played is his typical laid-back approached by Casey Affleck.
Redford meets a widow named Jewel, played by Sissy Spacek, who changes his life but not his thieving ways. There are twists and turns along the way. You cheer for Redford's Robin Hood-like character, fascinated about why and how he does each robbery and escape. He's a nice guy and likeable, not a creepy lowlife criminal. We know he deserves to get caught and pay his debt to society, yet I found myself rooting for the guy.
Interesting watching Redford act. He's smooth, a real pro, and laughs at himself. Old photos and even film of Redford in his younger days are weaved into the story and makes it more personal and believable. Redford, despite the various wrinkles in his weather-worn face, still has a leathery, handsome, rugged persona.Sometimes it's hard to watch him, remembering how truly handsome he once was knowing the aging process is bound to wear us all down at some point. Kudos to Redord for growing old gracefully and not selling out on creepy surgery Even an older, aging Redford is still preferable compared to a surgical, tight-skinned star who can't accept growing old gracefully
The film had me guessing right to the end. There was still some unanswered questions left to debate. You will think about the story later .
I'll miss Redford. I especially loved him in The Natural and The Sting. Gone will be yet another actor I grew up with. Redford is perfect for this final role. I can't imagine anyone playing it now. Watching Old man and a Gun may encourage you to go on a Robert Redford marathon and check out some of his great older flicks.
I'm glad he is going out on top and hope the movie does well, and just maybe, Redford will earn a nomination from the Academy for Best Actor. Hard to believe he has only one Oscar in his career, that for Directing ( Ordinary People in the early 80s). This performance may not be good to win, but Redford deserves the recognition one last time.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 20
The World's Largest Drum?
At Purdue, the staple of the school's pre-game routine is when the "World's Largest Drum" is wheeled out by a number of honorary pushers while two other band members beat the drum on either side.
In 1921 the drum cost $911 to make by the Leedy Manufacturing Co and was unveiled in August of that year. Although its actual measurements have been a closely guarded secret, the World's Largest Drum is synonymous with Purdue University.
The University of Texas has "Big Bertha," which is 8 feet tall and 44 inches wide, while the University of Missouri brags about "Big Mo," which measures in at 9 feet tall and 4 feet, 6 inches wide
At Purdue, the staple of the school's pre-game routine is when the "World's Largest Drum" is wheeled out by a number of honorary pushers while two other band members beat the drum on either side.
In 1921 the drum cost $911 to make by the Leedy Manufacturing Co and was unveiled in August of that year. Although its actual measurements have been a closely guarded secret, the World's Largest Drum is synonymous with Purdue University.
The University of Texas has "Big Bertha," which is 8 feet tall and 44 inches wide, while the University of Missouri brags about "Big Mo," which measures in at 9 feet tall and 4 feet, 6 inches wide
Friday, October 19, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, FLYERS, NFL, BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, PHILLIES
It was a rare night when all four pro sports were in action. First time since November 1, 2009 when all four sports- plus soccer and college football- were in play on the same night..Some highlights..
- The Sixers won their home opener over the Bulls. No surprise. Philly will beat up on the lesser teams in the Eastern Conference and will be near 50 wins this season. But I still have the feeling the Sixers aren't as good as last season, certainly not as deep, unless the front office makes some moves and adds depth as the season progresses.
It's stupid to be coddling No. 1 overall draft pick Markelle Fultz. I get it that booing him would hurt his confidence, etc... If Fultz plays up to his ability, as the overall top pick in the draft, it will make Jayson Tatum in Boston a little easier to swallow. Right now it looks like a one-sided deal.
Fultz is what he is, and if he turns out to be a bust that's the Sixers fault for poor evaluation. I agree that you have to play Fultz. Sitting him on the bench does no good for his ability and confidence. Find out if he can play. If not, cut your losses and move on.
Fultz is getting paid and is a professional. Maybe he has more, with better shooting technique and growing confidence, or maybe we have seen the best already of Fultz. For better or for worse we will know soon if the Sixers made a mistake selecting Fultz.
- The Flyers lost in Columbus last night. Again they give up six goals. Their defense is bad. The goaltending is bad. They need a kick-start. When is Carter Hart coming up from the minors?
Blue Jacket goalie Bobrovsky, a former Flyer, won again. The Orange and Black made a big mistake in letting him go years ago.
The team plays at home Saturday afternoon against the Devils.
- Denver destroyed Arizona in Thursday night football, 45-10. The great thing about this meaningless game is, with the Cards continuing to lose and the trade deadline coming up, could a few Arizona players interest the Eagles? Corner back Patrick Peterson/ Running back David Johnson? Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald?
- The Red Sox, winners of 108 games this season, reached the World Series last night, winning all three games in Houston and taking the series in 5 games( I had the Sox winning in 6).The Astros, defending world champs, had a great team as well, winning over 100 games, but didn't seem as hungry. To lose all three games at homewas embarrassing. The controversial fan interference no-home run call in Game 4 had to be deflating. Houston has a good, young club and will be back in 2019.
Boston will wait for the Dodgers-Brewers winner, with LA going back to Milwaukee up 3-2. Whoever makes it out of the national league will have a tough task against the Red Sox, who will have home field advantage in the World Series.
- Thinking about Manny Machado's recent comments about not hustling, I'm hoping the Phillies get outfielder Bryce Harper instead. Harper and Hoskins in the middle of the line-up would be lethal for the opposition. Who needs a guy who openly proclaims he doesn't always hustle ? How bright is he to admit that "hustling isn't my cup of tea" before someone gives him $300-400 million? What message would that send to the younger players? The Phils should try to trade the moody Odubel Herrera and his bad attitude. Why bring another malcontent on board?
I think Machado may be a bit of a diva anyway. He is a superb third baseman yet insists on playing shortstop, a position he is no where as good at. The Phillies need both a third baseman ( looks like Franco will be trade bait) and shortstop ( will Kingery return to second base if Hernandez is dealt? But getting Harper, who is an outfielder, would force Hoskins to play first base again ( his natural position).
The Phillies management stresses that their poor defense must improve next season yet there is talk of playing Carlos Santana at third?Santana is another mistake that needs to go.
Anyway, Machado, talent-wise, is a huge step-up over what the Phillies have now, anywhere on the field. And maybe his attitude would change, especially if Phillie fans get on his case every night. Still, I'd rather see Harper in red pinstripes next spring.
- The Sixers won their home opener over the Bulls. No surprise. Philly will beat up on the lesser teams in the Eastern Conference and will be near 50 wins this season. But I still have the feeling the Sixers aren't as good as last season, certainly not as deep, unless the front office makes some moves and adds depth as the season progresses.
It's stupid to be coddling No. 1 overall draft pick Markelle Fultz. I get it that booing him would hurt his confidence, etc... If Fultz plays up to his ability, as the overall top pick in the draft, it will make Jayson Tatum in Boston a little easier to swallow. Right now it looks like a one-sided deal.
Fultz is what he is, and if he turns out to be a bust that's the Sixers fault for poor evaluation. I agree that you have to play Fultz. Sitting him on the bench does no good for his ability and confidence. Find out if he can play. If not, cut your losses and move on.
Fultz is getting paid and is a professional. Maybe he has more, with better shooting technique and growing confidence, or maybe we have seen the best already of Fultz. For better or for worse we will know soon if the Sixers made a mistake selecting Fultz.
- The Flyers lost in Columbus last night. Again they give up six goals. Their defense is bad. The goaltending is bad. They need a kick-start. When is Carter Hart coming up from the minors?
Blue Jacket goalie Bobrovsky, a former Flyer, won again. The Orange and Black made a big mistake in letting him go years ago.
The team plays at home Saturday afternoon against the Devils.
- Denver destroyed Arizona in Thursday night football, 45-10. The great thing about this meaningless game is, with the Cards continuing to lose and the trade deadline coming up, could a few Arizona players interest the Eagles? Corner back Patrick Peterson/ Running back David Johnson? Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald?
- The Red Sox, winners of 108 games this season, reached the World Series last night, winning all three games in Houston and taking the series in 5 games( I had the Sox winning in 6).The Astros, defending world champs, had a great team as well, winning over 100 games, but didn't seem as hungry. To lose all three games at homewas embarrassing. The controversial fan interference no-home run call in Game 4 had to be deflating. Houston has a good, young club and will be back in 2019.
Boston will wait for the Dodgers-Brewers winner, with LA going back to Milwaukee up 3-2. Whoever makes it out of the national league will have a tough task against the Red Sox, who will have home field advantage in the World Series.
- Thinking about Manny Machado's recent comments about not hustling, I'm hoping the Phillies get outfielder Bryce Harper instead. Harper and Hoskins in the middle of the line-up would be lethal for the opposition. Who needs a guy who openly proclaims he doesn't always hustle ? How bright is he to admit that "hustling isn't my cup of tea" before someone gives him $300-400 million? What message would that send to the younger players? The Phils should try to trade the moody Odubel Herrera and his bad attitude. Why bring another malcontent on board?
I think Machado may be a bit of a diva anyway. He is a superb third baseman yet insists on playing shortstop, a position he is no where as good at. The Phillies need both a third baseman ( looks like Franco will be trade bait) and shortstop ( will Kingery return to second base if Hernandez is dealt? But getting Harper, who is an outfielder, would force Hoskins to play first base again ( his natural position).
The Phillies management stresses that their poor defense must improve next season yet there is talk of playing Carlos Santana at third?Santana is another mistake that needs to go.
Anyway, Machado, talent-wise, is a huge step-up over what the Phillies have now, anywhere on the field. And maybe his attitude would change, especially if Phillie fans get on his case every night. Still, I'd rather see Harper in red pinstripes next spring.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 19
Ring Leaders
"The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime."
- Babe Ruth
"The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime."
- Babe Ruth
Thursday, October 18, 2018
NFL PREVIEW- WEEK 7
Looking a tthe pro football games this weekend..
Broncos at Cardinals-
Tonight's Thursday Night game between two teams going no where. Who cares?
Titans at Chargers-
No home field advantage for the Chargers, who can't draw in LA, even in a small, soccer stadium. LA needs a win to hang with Kansas City, while the incomsistent Titans hit the road. I like Philip Rivers and the Chargers.
Patriots at Bears-
Big test for the home Bears in what should be a windy and cold Soldier Field. After losing in Miami, Chicago can make a serious statement by beating Tom Brady and New England at home. The Pats should have their hands full on Sunday.
Bills at Colts-
Another who cares game between two squads that will end up with losing records.
Lions at Dolphins-
Miami is right there with New England and can't afford to slip a thome agains tan up-and-down Lions team.
Vikings at Jets-
One would think minnesota is back on track after their big win in Philly and their home win last week. but the Jets, with rookie QB Sam Darnold, are playing well so this one could be tight.
Giants at Falcons-
New York has quit plus Atlanta can't afford another home loss if they want to stay in contention in NFC South.
Browns at Buccaneers-
Whatever happens, Cleveland has played much better this season, epsecially under rookie QB Baker Mayfield. Tampa, atfer a fast start, is struggling but should win at home this week.
Texans at Jaguars-
Is Jacksonville the bniggest disappointment, after going to the AFC Championship Game last season? The Jags need a win before traveling to London to face the Eagles.
Saints at Ravens-
Baltimore is a different team at home and they need this one to stay with cincinnati and emerging Pittsburgh. Drew Brees is always dangerous, but getting the Saints outdoors ona cold, windy afternoon can't hurt.
Rams at 49ers-
Once a bitter rivalry, now the Rams are undefeated and streaking thur NFC West. For LA soon it won't be about winning the division. Their focus will be on home field advantage in the upcoming playoffs.
Cowboys at Redskins-
Washington at home needs this game to stay on top of NFC East It's always good for Dallas to lsoe.
Bengals at Chiefs-
After choking at home against rival Pittsburgh last week, Cincy has another tough road game at Arrowhead Stadium against a Chiefs team that also lost it's first game of the year.
In my NFL picks against the spread, I went 3-1 last week, which brings the total to 8-3 for the season. Here are my selections this week..
Eagles - 4.5
Chiefs - 6
Falcons - 5.5
Broncos at Cardinals-
Tonight's Thursday Night game between two teams going no where. Who cares?
Titans at Chargers-
No home field advantage for the Chargers, who can't draw in LA, even in a small, soccer stadium. LA needs a win to hang with Kansas City, while the incomsistent Titans hit the road. I like Philip Rivers and the Chargers.
Patriots at Bears-
Big test for the home Bears in what should be a windy and cold Soldier Field. After losing in Miami, Chicago can make a serious statement by beating Tom Brady and New England at home. The Pats should have their hands full on Sunday.
Bills at Colts-
Another who cares game between two squads that will end up with losing records.
Lions at Dolphins-
Miami is right there with New England and can't afford to slip a thome agains tan up-and-down Lions team.
Vikings at Jets-
One would think minnesota is back on track after their big win in Philly and their home win last week. but the Jets, with rookie QB Sam Darnold, are playing well so this one could be tight.
Giants at Falcons-
New York has quit plus Atlanta can't afford another home loss if they want to stay in contention in NFC South.
Browns at Buccaneers-
Whatever happens, Cleveland has played much better this season, epsecially under rookie QB Baker Mayfield. Tampa, atfer a fast start, is struggling but should win at home this week.
Texans at Jaguars-
Is Jacksonville the bniggest disappointment, after going to the AFC Championship Game last season? The Jags need a win before traveling to London to face the Eagles.
Saints at Ravens-
Baltimore is a different team at home and they need this one to stay with cincinnati and emerging Pittsburgh. Drew Brees is always dangerous, but getting the Saints outdoors ona cold, windy afternoon can't hurt.
Rams at 49ers-
Once a bitter rivalry, now the Rams are undefeated and streaking thur NFC West. For LA soon it won't be about winning the division. Their focus will be on home field advantage in the upcoming playoffs.
Cowboys at Redskins-
Washington at home needs this game to stay on top of NFC East It's always good for Dallas to lsoe.
Bengals at Chiefs-
After choking at home against rival Pittsburgh last week, Cincy has another tough road game at Arrowhead Stadium against a Chiefs team that also lost it's first game of the year.
In my NFL picks against the spread, I went 3-1 last week, which brings the total to 8-3 for the season. Here are my selections this week..
Eagles - 4.5
Chiefs - 6
Falcons - 5.5
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, SIXERS
- Houston now has it's back to the wall, losing two straight to the Red Sox at home and going down 3-1 in the American League Championship Series. I picked Bosotn in six and I can see the Astros forcing a Game 6 back in Boston. I just didn't think this Astro team would be as hungry for another World Series, plus the Red Sox won 108 this season, no push-overs.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers leave LA with a 3-2 lead in the National League Championship Series. Milwaukee needs to take two in a row at home to capture the pennant. I picked the Brewers in six- that won't happen. but it wouldn't surprise me to see the Brewers at least force a winner-take-all Game 7.
LA has been there before. They have the experience . A Dodger-Red Sox World Series would be classic.
- The Sixers play their home opener tonight against the Bulls. Hopefully the have let the opening night defeat in Boston fade away. Losing to a bad chicago club in your home opener would signal red flags and question the stability of this 76ers team.
- Both seasons for our local winter teams has just begun but already I'm not seeing a championship on the horizon. Maybe playoff runs at the very least?
The Sixers are no way better than the Celtics. They will win 50 games again and hopefully jell as the year goes on, as they did last season when they went on a 16-game winning streak to close out the year.
The Flyers are way too inconsistent to even think about winning the Stanley Cup. They still have their young core, sprikled in with vets like Geroux, Simmons and Vorachek. but until they either get a true No. 1 goalie- or one of their prospects, like Carter Hart emerges from the minors- thye will struggle just to reach the playoffs.
- I agree. The baseball playoffs are on way too late. how is a kid, on a week-night, supposed to stay up til 2am and watch the end of these games? The west coast really doesn't care anyhow, yet baseball caters to that time zone.
Why not start the playoff games at 6:00 pm EST? That way, even if they do run 3 hours the games ar eover around 9:00 on hte east coast, more logical for kids and adults who need to get up early for school or work. 3:00 PST would mean fans on the west coast get the games clsoe to when work and school are finished for the day.
All sports should think more of east coast fans. Pro football starts too late on Thursday, Sunday and Monday nights, but at least midnight is a bit better end than 2:30 am. The NCAA Basketball Championship game tips-off after 9:00 EST.
Baseball, already slow and too analytical, is shooting itself in the foot by having big playoff games end well-after midnight and beyond. Unless you are a Red Sox or Astros fan, from Boston or Houston, who is up at 2:30 in the morning, watching baseball? A loyal fan spends all spring and summer following their team, only to have it's playoff game- the reason you play 162 games a season- decided in the middle of the night? Makes no sense.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers leave LA with a 3-2 lead in the National League Championship Series. Milwaukee needs to take two in a row at home to capture the pennant. I picked the Brewers in six- that won't happen. but it wouldn't surprise me to see the Brewers at least force a winner-take-all Game 7.
LA has been there before. They have the experience . A Dodger-Red Sox World Series would be classic.
- The Sixers play their home opener tonight against the Bulls. Hopefully the have let the opening night defeat in Boston fade away. Losing to a bad chicago club in your home opener would signal red flags and question the stability of this 76ers team.
- Both seasons for our local winter teams has just begun but already I'm not seeing a championship on the horizon. Maybe playoff runs at the very least?
The Sixers are no way better than the Celtics. They will win 50 games again and hopefully jell as the year goes on, as they did last season when they went on a 16-game winning streak to close out the year.
The Flyers are way too inconsistent to even think about winning the Stanley Cup. They still have their young core, sprikled in with vets like Geroux, Simmons and Vorachek. but until they either get a true No. 1 goalie- or one of their prospects, like Carter Hart emerges from the minors- thye will struggle just to reach the playoffs.
- I agree. The baseball playoffs are on way too late. how is a kid, on a week-night, supposed to stay up til 2am and watch the end of these games? The west coast really doesn't care anyhow, yet baseball caters to that time zone.
Why not start the playoff games at 6:00 pm EST? That way, even if they do run 3 hours the games ar eover around 9:00 on hte east coast, more logical for kids and adults who need to get up early for school or work. 3:00 PST would mean fans on the west coast get the games clsoe to when work and school are finished for the day.
All sports should think more of east coast fans. Pro football starts too late on Thursday, Sunday and Monday nights, but at least midnight is a bit better end than 2:30 am. The NCAA Basketball Championship game tips-off after 9:00 EST.
Baseball, already slow and too analytical, is shooting itself in the foot by having big playoff games end well-after midnight and beyond. Unless you are a Red Sox or Astros fan, from Boston or Houston, who is up at 2:30 in the morning, watching baseball? A loyal fan spends all spring and summer following their team, only to have it's playoff game- the reason you play 162 games a season- decided in the middle of the night? Makes no sense.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES- PANTHERS- THE PICK
The Eagles are 3-3 and beat up on the Giants last Thursday night. They looked more like the super bowl team they are. Or were the Giants that bad?
Minnesota got their revenge recently, beating the Birds at the Linc, where the Eagles are 17-3 during the Doug Pederson era. I can't see them losing two straight at the Linc. Plus the Panthers are 3-0 at home in Carolina but winless on the road.
QB Cam Newton is always tough, especially when he scrambles. Running quarterbacks always seem to give the Eagles' defense problems ( witness Marcus Mariotta earlier this season). With a solid defense and the ability to score I expect Carolina to be in playoff contention at the end.
Injuries are still a key factor for Philly. Will Jason Peters play? Darren Sproles is most likely out. What about RB Corey Clement?
As the NFL trade deadline nears, this week's game will go a long way in telling if GM Howie Rossman makes a move or not. Another running back, a speedy wide receiver and a shut-down corner back are all on the wish-list.
Windy and chilly is the forecast for Sunday. No rain. Great football weather.
The Birds are favored by 4 1/2 points. I see them covering the line. Getting off to a fast start and winning the turnover battle are keys to victory.
With a win, Philadelphia would go 4-3 and heading to London next week to face the Jaguars. Dallas and Washington play each other, so one has to lose. I always hate for the Cowboys to win, but a Washington home loss would be nice.
Make it Eagles 23 Panthers 14
Minnesota got their revenge recently, beating the Birds at the Linc, where the Eagles are 17-3 during the Doug Pederson era. I can't see them losing two straight at the Linc. Plus the Panthers are 3-0 at home in Carolina but winless on the road.
QB Cam Newton is always tough, especially when he scrambles. Running quarterbacks always seem to give the Eagles' defense problems ( witness Marcus Mariotta earlier this season). With a solid defense and the ability to score I expect Carolina to be in playoff contention at the end.
Injuries are still a key factor for Philly. Will Jason Peters play? Darren Sproles is most likely out. What about RB Corey Clement?
As the NFL trade deadline nears, this week's game will go a long way in telling if GM Howie Rossman makes a move or not. Another running back, a speedy wide receiver and a shut-down corner back are all on the wish-list.
Windy and chilly is the forecast for Sunday. No rain. Great football weather.
The Birds are favored by 4 1/2 points. I see them covering the line. Getting off to a fast start and winning the turnover battle are keys to victory.
With a win, Philadelphia would go 4-3 and heading to London next week to face the Jaguars. Dallas and Washington play each other, so one has to lose. I always hate for the Cowboys to win, but a Washington home loss would be nice.
Make it Eagles 23 Panthers 14
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 18
Walkin' Off
At Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Mark McGwire goes deep off LA's Jay Howell with one out in the bottom of the ninth inning, giving the A;s a 2-1 victory for its only win in the 1988 World Series.
With Kirk Gibson's heroics in Game 1, "Big Mac's" walk-off home run marks the first time that two game-winning round-trippers are hit in the same Fall Classic.
At Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Mark McGwire goes deep off LA's Jay Howell with one out in the bottom of the ninth inning, giving the A;s a 2-1 victory for its only win in the 1988 World Series.
With Kirk Gibson's heroics in Game 1, "Big Mac's" walk-off home run marks the first time that two game-winning round-trippers are hit in the same Fall Classic.
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 17
In 1908 Jack Norworth's classic, "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," was published by the York Music Company, and before the year was over, it was a hit on the pop charts.
Take me out to the ball game,
Take me out with the crowd.
Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,
I don't care if I never get back.
Let me root, root root for the home team,
If they don't win it's a shame,
For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,
At the old ball game.
Take me out to the ball game,
Take me out with the crowd.
Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,
I don't care if I never get back.
Let me root, root root for the home team,
If they don't win it's a shame,
For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,
At the old ball game.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, FLYERS, BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, PHILLIES
- As expected, the Sixers lost their opener last night in Boston, getting crushed by 18 points. The Celtics have now won 16 of the last 19 games vs the 76ers. It will only get worse with young star Jason Tatum shining for Boston, and Markelle Fultz slumping for the Sixers.
That move- the Sixers trading up to the #1 pick and selecting Fultz, while the Celts fell to #3, picked up an additional #1 draft pick, and took Tatum- will haunt Philly for years. It may turn out to be the worst move ever in Philadelphia sports history.
Teams will collapse on center Joel Embiid if Fultz and Ben Simmons cannot or refuse to shoot. Did the pair really work on their shooting during the off-season? Without Bellini and Illyasova as long-range shooters, only J.J. Reddick is reliable as a three-point threat.
OK, it's only one game, but warning signs are all over. Coach Brett Brown is still clueless, a loser with a loser's mentality. The Sixers will win over 50 games this season, beating up on lesser Eastern Conference clubs. but will they ever get by Boston?
************************************************************************
The Flyers blew a three-goal lead last night but beat winless Florida in a shoot-out, 6-5. Inconsistent, especially at home so far this young season. I still don't trust their goalies and feel they won't go anywhere until they either get a true No. 1 goaltender or a youngster like Carter Hart comes up from the minors and takes over between the pipes.
The new flyers' mascot, Gritty, is everywhere and has become a sensation. The organization made a brilliant marketing move by employing a mascot, and gettingDave Raymond, the creator and original Philly Phanatic, to create Gritty as well.
For the stuffy, uptight flyers' die-hard fans who dislike Gritty- lighten-up! Sports is supposed to be fun. Gritty brings some life to the franchise, and not only for the kids who happen to be hockey fans, but for all ages.
***********************************************************************
Game 5 of a playoff series often decides the entire series. No difference in the Dodger-Brewer National League Championship Series, with things knotted at 2-2. One more game in Los Angeles, and it has to be another must-win for the Dodgers. They don't want to return to Milwaukee down 3-2 and needing to sweep in Milwaukee.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox have taken a 2-1 lead in the American League Championship Series against the Astros. We all knew this would be a tight series between an 108 win team and the defending world champs. I still say Boston in six.
*************************************************************************
Manny Machado will soon become a free agent after the Dodger season ends, good or bad. In a recent interview, Machado is making news by claiming he doesn't always hustle. Not another Odubel Herrera?
The difference is that Machado is a star. He can probably get away for not always hustling on the baseball diamond because he hits home runs and plays outstanding defense. But there really is no good reason not to hustle all rhe time. Machado will probably make a good $300-400 million as a free agent soon . Should the Phillies still try to sign a player who admits to not hustling all the time?
The Phils need a shortstop/third baseman, need power and a .300 hitter. Machado is a young superstar. Would his attitude play with the other young guys on the Phillies?
The Phillies need talent. Sign Machado. And Harper.
That move- the Sixers trading up to the #1 pick and selecting Fultz, while the Celts fell to #3, picked up an additional #1 draft pick, and took Tatum- will haunt Philly for years. It may turn out to be the worst move ever in Philadelphia sports history.
Teams will collapse on center Joel Embiid if Fultz and Ben Simmons cannot or refuse to shoot. Did the pair really work on their shooting during the off-season? Without Bellini and Illyasova as long-range shooters, only J.J. Reddick is reliable as a three-point threat.
OK, it's only one game, but warning signs are all over. Coach Brett Brown is still clueless, a loser with a loser's mentality. The Sixers will win over 50 games this season, beating up on lesser Eastern Conference clubs. but will they ever get by Boston?
************************************************************************
The Flyers blew a three-goal lead last night but beat winless Florida in a shoot-out, 6-5. Inconsistent, especially at home so far this young season. I still don't trust their goalies and feel they won't go anywhere until they either get a true No. 1 goaltender or a youngster like Carter Hart comes up from the minors and takes over between the pipes.
The new flyers' mascot, Gritty, is everywhere and has become a sensation. The organization made a brilliant marketing move by employing a mascot, and gettingDave Raymond, the creator and original Philly Phanatic, to create Gritty as well.
For the stuffy, uptight flyers' die-hard fans who dislike Gritty- lighten-up! Sports is supposed to be fun. Gritty brings some life to the franchise, and not only for the kids who happen to be hockey fans, but for all ages.
***********************************************************************
Game 5 of a playoff series often decides the entire series. No difference in the Dodger-Brewer National League Championship Series, with things knotted at 2-2. One more game in Los Angeles, and it has to be another must-win for the Dodgers. They don't want to return to Milwaukee down 3-2 and needing to sweep in Milwaukee.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox have taken a 2-1 lead in the American League Championship Series against the Astros. We all knew this would be a tight series between an 108 win team and the defending world champs. I still say Boston in six.
*************************************************************************
Manny Machado will soon become a free agent after the Dodger season ends, good or bad. In a recent interview, Machado is making news by claiming he doesn't always hustle. Not another Odubel Herrera?
The difference is that Machado is a star. He can probably get away for not always hustling on the baseball diamond because he hits home runs and plays outstanding defense. But there really is no good reason not to hustle all rhe time. Machado will probably make a good $300-400 million as a free agent soon . Should the Phillies still try to sign a player who admits to not hustling all the time?
The Phils need a shortstop/third baseman, need power and a .300 hitter. Machado is a young superstar. Would his attitude play with the other young guys on the Phillies?
The Phillies need talent. Sign Machado. And Harper.
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
IN THE NEWS- NIKE SIGNS RUNNER WITH CEREBRAL PALSY TO PRO CONTRACT
From The Oregonian..
University of Oregon junior Justin Gallegos had just finished running in a recent race when he got the surprise of a lifetime.
Nike wanted to sign Gallegos, who has cerebral palsy, to a pro contract. Gallegos is in the running club at the University of Oregon and now he's Nike's first pro athlete with cerebral palsy.
Earlier, this month was cerebral palsy awareness day, and that's when Gallegos shared in an Instagram post that he had signed a three-year contract with Nike Running.
"This was perhaps the most emotional moment in my seven years of running!" Gallegos wrote. "Growing up with a disability, the thought of becoming a professional athlete is as I have said before like the thought of climbing Mt. Everest! It is definitely possible, but the odds are most definitely not in your favor! hard work pays off!"
Film company Elevation Om documented the surprise, which they shared online.
University of Oregon junior Justin Gallegos had just finished running in a recent race when he got the surprise of a lifetime.
Nike wanted to sign Gallegos, who has cerebral palsy, to a pro contract. Gallegos is in the running club at the University of Oregon and now he's Nike's first pro athlete with cerebral palsy.
Earlier, this month was cerebral palsy awareness day, and that's when Gallegos shared in an Instagram post that he had signed a three-year contract with Nike Running.
"This was perhaps the most emotional moment in my seven years of running!" Gallegos wrote. "Growing up with a disability, the thought of becoming a professional athlete is as I have said before like the thought of climbing Mt. Everest! It is definitely possible, but the odds are most definitely not in your favor! hard work pays off!"
Film company Elevation Om documented the surprise, which they shared online.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, NFL, SIXERS, FLYERS
- Good for the Brewers. They shut-out the Dodgers in LA last night, going up 2-1 in the NLCS. The Dodgers are in must-win mode now. A young, up-and-coming team like Milwaukee is good for baseball. A fun team to watch..
- St. Aaron Rodgers did it again on Sunday night, leading Green Bay to a last second victory over San Francisco. Regardless, the Pack look like an average squad who will finish behind Minnesota in NFC North.
- The Sixers open their regular season tonight where they ended it last spring- in Boston. They take on their rival Celtics in a big revenge game. The 76ers will be good in an average NBA Eastern Conference, but will they win as many games as last season? No. They may win 50 but not 53. Without long-range shooters Illyasova and Bellinelli, they will struggle shooting but the pair of superstars, Embiied and Simmons, will carry them to the East Finals.
- The Flyers have lost their first two home games. They get a chance to break the ice tonight against winless Florida.
- The Phillies remain silent, especially owner John Middleton. I don't have much faith in the bumbling management. Landing a big-name free agent like Machado and/or Harper would be a welcome surprise. I expect more one-year deals with mediocre, cheap players who won't make the team significantly better. not from this passive, clueless leadership group.
- St. Aaron Rodgers did it again on Sunday night, leading Green Bay to a last second victory over San Francisco. Regardless, the Pack look like an average squad who will finish behind Minnesota in NFC North.
- The Sixers open their regular season tonight where they ended it last spring- in Boston. They take on their rival Celtics in a big revenge game. The 76ers will be good in an average NBA Eastern Conference, but will they win as many games as last season? No. They may win 50 but not 53. Without long-range shooters Illyasova and Bellinelli, they will struggle shooting but the pair of superstars, Embiied and Simmons, will carry them to the East Finals.
- The Flyers have lost their first two home games. They get a chance to break the ice tonight against winless Florida.
- The Phillies remain silent, especially owner John Middleton. I don't have much faith in the bumbling management. Landing a big-name free agent like Machado and/or Harper would be a welcome surprise. I expect more one-year deals with mediocre, cheap players who won't make the team significantly better. not from this passive, clueless leadership group.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 16
Black Power Salute
"If I win, I am American, not a black American. But if I did something bad, then they would say I am a Negro. We are black and we are proud of being black. Black America will understand what we did tonight."
- Tommie Smith
Tommie Smith (USA track and field athlete) won the gold medal for the 200-meter sprint at the 1968 Summer Olympics held in Mexico City.
"If I win, I am American, not a black American. But if I did something bad, then they would say I am a Negro. We are black and we are proud of being black. Black America will understand what we did tonight."
- Tommie Smith
Tommie Smith (USA track and field athlete) won the gold medal for the 200-meter sprint at the 1968 Summer Olympics held in Mexico City.
Monday, October 15, 2018
NFL REVIEW- WEEK 6
I went 3-1 in my NFL picks this weekend. I'm 8-3 for the season so far. Here is a rundown of pro football ...
Eagles over Giants-
Philly needed the win in New York, 3-3 on the season and 1-0 in the NFC East. One wonders how the birds could lose to phony teams like Tennessee and Tampa Bay. Those road losses may haunt the Eagles as they still have tough away games at New Orleans and Los Angeles later in the year.For the Giants, they look to the spring draft, where maybe they will finally get their future quarterback.The Birds host Carolina this week while New York should again struggle in Atlanta.
Falcons over Buccaneers-
Atlanta badly needed the home win just to stay afloat in NFC South, while the Bucs show their great colors after a good start. Would Tampa Bay trade D. Jackson back to the Eagles before the trade deadline?The Falcons can get even healthier this week at home against the woeful Giants while Tampa plays host to the Browns.
Steelers over Bengals-
Pittsburgh owns the Bengals in Cincinnati. this is why Cincy won't win the AFC North or go far in the big games. Marvin Lewis is not a coach who will win a big game. Cincy could've put their rival away with a home victory. Instead they choked and gave the Steelers life. Pittsburgh has a bye this week before hosting Cleveland in two weeks. The Bengals head to Kansas City to face a Chiefs team angry about losing their first game to New England last night.
Chargers over Browns-
I thought maybe the chargers, flyers east from warm LA to chilly Cleveland, may be effected by the time and the weather, but Philip Rivers and co. handled the Browns. The Chargers are only a game behind KC, and should push the Chiefs for the top spot in AFC West. Cleveland hits the road to Tampa next week while Los Angeles goes back to California to play Tennessee before their bye.
Seahawks over Raiders-
Meaningless game between two has-been teams. Seattle has no chance against the Rams in NFC West while Oakland is an embarrassment under new coach Jon Gruden. Oakland may be ready for the Raiders to move on to Vegas. Seattle is off this week before heading to Detroit., while Oakland is on a much-needed bye.
Dolphins over Bears-
Everyone seemed to be picking Chicago in Miami. Why? The Bears still need to show me they are real. Miami stays with New England but loses QB Tannehill in the process. Miami stays home to battle the Lions while the Bears host the Patriots. Let's see just how good Trubiski and the Bears are this week against Tom Brady.
Vikings over Cardinals-
Minnesota had some surprising trouble with Arizona before pulling away at home. Arizona is playing out the schedule now while the vikings try to take control of NFC North. Minnesota heads to the Meadowlands to face the Jets while the Cards finally head back to the desert to play Denver.
Jets over Colts-
New York wins at home and stays in the AFC East race while Indy continues to put up points but struggles to win games. The Jets take on the vikings in an interesting weekend contest while Indianapolis hosts Buffalo.
Redskins over Panthers-
Washington goes 3-2 to take over 1st place in NFC East while Carolina continues it's erratic play.. They head to the Linc next Sunday to play Philadelphia while the Skins stay home to face their bitter rival, the Cowboys. Good news for the Eagles- one of them has to lose.
Rams over Broncos-
The Rams stay undefeated with a victory in snowy Denver, while the broncos tread water in AFC West. LA plays the third game of a three-game road trip at San Francisco next week. Never easy to win a trio of road games in a row. Denver travels to lowly Arizona next week.
Cowboys over Jaguars-
How did the awful Dallas offense score 40 points on the vaunted Jacksonville defense? They did, improving to 3-3 on the year. The Jags remain a mystery under QB Bortles. Jacksonville goes home to play Houston before going to London to play the Eagles. The Cowboys take on the Redskins in Washington in a key NFC East battle.
Patriots over Chiefs-
In a highly anticipated Sunday Night game, the Pats hit a last-second field goal and snapped Kansas City's winning streak. New England goes to Chicago next weekend while KC hosts Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium.
Ravens over Titans-
Again, how could the Eagles lose in Tennessee? They aren't that good. Baltimore is so inconsistent. With the Bengals losing to the Steelers it's time for the Ravens to step up before Pittsburgh takes control in AFC North. Baltimore has three key games upcoming: home against the Saints this weekend, on the road at Carolina, and home vs Pittsburgh. The Titans, now 3-3 in AFC South, hit the road to face the Chargers in LA, have a bye, then go to Dallas in the next three weeks.
Texans over Bills-
Buffalo continues to struggle while Houston is somewhat back in the mediocre AFC South. Houston goes to Jacksonville in a key division game this week while Buffalo stays on the road, visiting the Colts.
The 49ers play in Green Bay tonight.
Eagles over Giants-
Philly needed the win in New York, 3-3 on the season and 1-0 in the NFC East. One wonders how the birds could lose to phony teams like Tennessee and Tampa Bay. Those road losses may haunt the Eagles as they still have tough away games at New Orleans and Los Angeles later in the year.For the Giants, they look to the spring draft, where maybe they will finally get their future quarterback.The Birds host Carolina this week while New York should again struggle in Atlanta.
Falcons over Buccaneers-
Atlanta badly needed the home win just to stay afloat in NFC South, while the Bucs show their great colors after a good start. Would Tampa Bay trade D. Jackson back to the Eagles before the trade deadline?The Falcons can get even healthier this week at home against the woeful Giants while Tampa plays host to the Browns.
Steelers over Bengals-
Pittsburgh owns the Bengals in Cincinnati. this is why Cincy won't win the AFC North or go far in the big games. Marvin Lewis is not a coach who will win a big game. Cincy could've put their rival away with a home victory. Instead they choked and gave the Steelers life. Pittsburgh has a bye this week before hosting Cleveland in two weeks. The Bengals head to Kansas City to face a Chiefs team angry about losing their first game to New England last night.
Chargers over Browns-
I thought maybe the chargers, flyers east from warm LA to chilly Cleveland, may be effected by the time and the weather, but Philip Rivers and co. handled the Browns. The Chargers are only a game behind KC, and should push the Chiefs for the top spot in AFC West. Cleveland hits the road to Tampa next week while Los Angeles goes back to California to play Tennessee before their bye.
Seahawks over Raiders-
Meaningless game between two has-been teams. Seattle has no chance against the Rams in NFC West while Oakland is an embarrassment under new coach Jon Gruden. Oakland may be ready for the Raiders to move on to Vegas. Seattle is off this week before heading to Detroit., while Oakland is on a much-needed bye.
Dolphins over Bears-
Everyone seemed to be picking Chicago in Miami. Why? The Bears still need to show me they are real. Miami stays with New England but loses QB Tannehill in the process. Miami stays home to battle the Lions while the Bears host the Patriots. Let's see just how good Trubiski and the Bears are this week against Tom Brady.
Vikings over Cardinals-
Minnesota had some surprising trouble with Arizona before pulling away at home. Arizona is playing out the schedule now while the vikings try to take control of NFC North. Minnesota heads to the Meadowlands to face the Jets while the Cards finally head back to the desert to play Denver.
Jets over Colts-
New York wins at home and stays in the AFC East race while Indy continues to put up points but struggles to win games. The Jets take on the vikings in an interesting weekend contest while Indianapolis hosts Buffalo.
Redskins over Panthers-
Washington goes 3-2 to take over 1st place in NFC East while Carolina continues it's erratic play.. They head to the Linc next Sunday to play Philadelphia while the Skins stay home to face their bitter rival, the Cowboys. Good news for the Eagles- one of them has to lose.
Rams over Broncos-
The Rams stay undefeated with a victory in snowy Denver, while the broncos tread water in AFC West. LA plays the third game of a three-game road trip at San Francisco next week. Never easy to win a trio of road games in a row. Denver travels to lowly Arizona next week.
Cowboys over Jaguars-
How did the awful Dallas offense score 40 points on the vaunted Jacksonville defense? They did, improving to 3-3 on the year. The Jags remain a mystery under QB Bortles. Jacksonville goes home to play Houston before going to London to play the Eagles. The Cowboys take on the Redskins in Washington in a key NFC East battle.
Patriots over Chiefs-
In a highly anticipated Sunday Night game, the Pats hit a last-second field goal and snapped Kansas City's winning streak. New England goes to Chicago next weekend while KC hosts Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium.
Ravens over Titans-
Again, how could the Eagles lose in Tennessee? They aren't that good. Baltimore is so inconsistent. With the Bengals losing to the Steelers it's time for the Ravens to step up before Pittsburgh takes control in AFC North. Baltimore has three key games upcoming: home against the Saints this weekend, on the road at Carolina, and home vs Pittsburgh. The Titans, now 3-3 in AFC South, hit the road to face the Chargers in LA, have a bye, then go to Dallas in the next three weeks.
Texans over Bills-
Buffalo continues to struggle while Houston is somewhat back in the mediocre AFC South. Houston goes to Jacksonville in a key division game this week while Buffalo stays on the road, visiting the Colts.
The 49ers play in Green Bay tonight.
IN MY LIFE- AL STEWART IN CONCERT AT THE COLONIAL THEATER- A REVIEW
*** 1/2 ( out of four stars)
Al Stewart loves Phoenixville and the old. historic Colonial Theater. He returns every year and has played the colonial countless times over the years. He triumphantly came back Sunday night to a sold-out, jam-packed venue.
Seeing Al in concert is always fun. He is witty, funny and musically, either acoustic or with a full band, you get your money's worth of entertainment. He makes you feel special, listens to his audience and soon you feel like the great British singer is sitting in your living room, playing just for you alone.
This was the third time we have seen Al in Phoenixville. He keeps getting better and better. He was again supposed to reprise his classic album 'Year of the Cat" in it's entirety. Bot he has done the YOTC album twice before at the Colonial, both acoustically and with a back-up band. So loyal Al Stewart fans alerted the venue of this fact, plus Al himself had made a comment coming off stage that he may do his other iconic album "Past, Present and Future" next time. After his main set, as an encore, fans were calling out songs from the PPF album, such as "Road To Moscow". give Al credit for hearing his fans and giving them what they want.
Past, Present and Future was an album recorded in the 70s, written as a historic piece of events mainly in the 20th century, from Nazi Germany to the psychedelic times in the 60s. It's brilliant in his length and scope but not a commercial success, as Stewart admits. But Al wrote it anyway, saying 'What the hell?"
So, as soon as Al graciously agreed to switch albums, we looked forward to this show because these were songs not heard maybe in forty-plus years. We would still hear the hits and deep cuts, as with any Stewart show, but this time we would also be treated to epic, magnificent storytelling songs.
The crisp, cool Autumn night started with a fine Italian meal at Franco's Restaurant, directly across bridge Street from the legendary Colonial. Arriving at the theater approximately 20 minutes before showtime we found the lobby crowded with an enormous buzz around the mostly middle-aged audience. There was an anticipation and excitement in the air unlike previous Stewart's concerts.
Al's back-up band out of Chicago, The Empty Pockets, did a 5-song, 20-minute warm-up and received a warm response. Great young musicians but we were there to see and hear Al, and The Empty Pockets knew it,
Stewart came out to roaring applause with the very appropriate "One Stage Before," a song about deja vu, a cut from The Year of the Cat lp. Then came "On The Border" and finally "Time Passages,"It was clever and brilliant arrangement and placing of each song, as "Time Passages" is exactly what the Past, Present and Future album is all about.
The 8-song album is short on songs but most are lengthy, and the little chats and mini-historical lessons and reasons why Al wrote each song was priceless. We learned a lot about each song and Al's personal history during his time frame that he wrote about ( including the fact he snuck backstage as a 17-year-old and met John Lennon ( he got to play Lennon's guitar). Later in the 60s Al met and worked with Yoko Ono, so, as he quipped "I actually met John and Yoko even before they met each other...Who knows why?"
"Old Admirals" is the opening song, and it finally sunk in what we were hearing was classic stuff and I hoped someone was taping this concert.
More great tunes followed, such as "Warren Harding", Soho (Needless To Say)" and " The Last Day of June 1934." The best was yet to come, and the hundreds of fans crammed into the theater waited patiently for what they knew was coming.
The final three songs on the PPF album are truly iconic, starting with "Roads To Moscow." Lavish, sad, poetic and epic, it is a masterpiece. It received a nice standing ovation ( I thought it deserved more), but the crowd was saving itself.
"Terminal Eyes" is an "I Am The Walrus" clone, which Stewart turned into an out-and-out rock song.
"Nostradamus" is the finale on the album, an over 8 minute piece of art, highlighted by incessant, driving acoustic guitar work. Breath-taking, as the crowd clapped along.
A long, well-deserved standing ovation and thunderous roar followed, welcoming the departing Stewart and band back to the stage for an encore, the predictable but still highly enjoyable classic, "Year of the Cat."
Stewart concerts always are too short ( 13 songs on this chilly night), but it seemed just right to cap the night. Another lesser song as an extra encore may have spoiled the evening. Everyone got what they wanted- the long-awaited album and the hits, all rolled into a tidy two hours of intense music.
We were left speechless after the show, and folks around us seemed pleased, as they hurried out of the theater on a Sunday night. There was no signing afterwords in the lobby.
I can't wait until next year when Al Stewart comes back to Phoenixville. But how can he top what happened last night? That will be the challenge.
Al Stewart loves Phoenixville and the old. historic Colonial Theater. He returns every year and has played the colonial countless times over the years. He triumphantly came back Sunday night to a sold-out, jam-packed venue.
Seeing Al in concert is always fun. He is witty, funny and musically, either acoustic or with a full band, you get your money's worth of entertainment. He makes you feel special, listens to his audience and soon you feel like the great British singer is sitting in your living room, playing just for you alone.
This was the third time we have seen Al in Phoenixville. He keeps getting better and better. He was again supposed to reprise his classic album 'Year of the Cat" in it's entirety. Bot he has done the YOTC album twice before at the Colonial, both acoustically and with a back-up band. So loyal Al Stewart fans alerted the venue of this fact, plus Al himself had made a comment coming off stage that he may do his other iconic album "Past, Present and Future" next time. After his main set, as an encore, fans were calling out songs from the PPF album, such as "Road To Moscow". give Al credit for hearing his fans and giving them what they want.
Past, Present and Future was an album recorded in the 70s, written as a historic piece of events mainly in the 20th century, from Nazi Germany to the psychedelic times in the 60s. It's brilliant in his length and scope but not a commercial success, as Stewart admits. But Al wrote it anyway, saying 'What the hell?"
So, as soon as Al graciously agreed to switch albums, we looked forward to this show because these were songs not heard maybe in forty-plus years. We would still hear the hits and deep cuts, as with any Stewart show, but this time we would also be treated to epic, magnificent storytelling songs.
The crisp, cool Autumn night started with a fine Italian meal at Franco's Restaurant, directly across bridge Street from the legendary Colonial. Arriving at the theater approximately 20 minutes before showtime we found the lobby crowded with an enormous buzz around the mostly middle-aged audience. There was an anticipation and excitement in the air unlike previous Stewart's concerts.
Al's back-up band out of Chicago, The Empty Pockets, did a 5-song, 20-minute warm-up and received a warm response. Great young musicians but we were there to see and hear Al, and The Empty Pockets knew it,
Stewart came out to roaring applause with the very appropriate "One Stage Before," a song about deja vu, a cut from The Year of the Cat lp. Then came "On The Border" and finally "Time Passages,"It was clever and brilliant arrangement and placing of each song, as "Time Passages" is exactly what the Past, Present and Future album is all about.
The 8-song album is short on songs but most are lengthy, and the little chats and mini-historical lessons and reasons why Al wrote each song was priceless. We learned a lot about each song and Al's personal history during his time frame that he wrote about ( including the fact he snuck backstage as a 17-year-old and met John Lennon ( he got to play Lennon's guitar). Later in the 60s Al met and worked with Yoko Ono, so, as he quipped "I actually met John and Yoko even before they met each other...Who knows why?"
"Old Admirals" is the opening song, and it finally sunk in what we were hearing was classic stuff and I hoped someone was taping this concert.
More great tunes followed, such as "Warren Harding", Soho (Needless To Say)" and " The Last Day of June 1934." The best was yet to come, and the hundreds of fans crammed into the theater waited patiently for what they knew was coming.
The final three songs on the PPF album are truly iconic, starting with "Roads To Moscow." Lavish, sad, poetic and epic, it is a masterpiece. It received a nice standing ovation ( I thought it deserved more), but the crowd was saving itself.
"Terminal Eyes" is an "I Am The Walrus" clone, which Stewart turned into an out-and-out rock song.
"Nostradamus" is the finale on the album, an over 8 minute piece of art, highlighted by incessant, driving acoustic guitar work. Breath-taking, as the crowd clapped along.
A long, well-deserved standing ovation and thunderous roar followed, welcoming the departing Stewart and band back to the stage for an encore, the predictable but still highly enjoyable classic, "Year of the Cat."
Stewart concerts always are too short ( 13 songs on this chilly night), but it seemed just right to cap the night. Another lesser song as an extra encore may have spoiled the evening. Everyone got what they wanted- the long-awaited album and the hits, all rolled into a tidy two hours of intense music.
We were left speechless after the show, and folks around us seemed pleased, as they hurried out of the theater on a Sunday night. There was no signing afterwords in the lobby.
I can't wait until next year when Al Stewart comes back to Phoenixville. But how can he top what happened last night? That will be the challenge.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- OCTOBER 15
"Catholics vs. Convicts"
On this day in 1988, #4 Notre Dame knocked down a 2-point conversion with 45 seconds remaining and held on to beat #1 Miami. Defensive end Frank Stams led a Notre Dame defense that forced seven turnovers. The game, hyped as the "Catholics vs. Convicts," ended the Hurricanes' 36-game regular-season win streak. The Irish would go on to win their only national championship under Lou Holtz.
On this day in 1988, #4 Notre Dame knocked down a 2-point conversion with 45 seconds remaining and held on to beat #1 Miami. Defensive end Frank Stams led a Notre Dame defense that forced seven turnovers. The game, hyped as the "Catholics vs. Convicts," ended the Hurricanes' 36-game regular-season win streak. The Irish would go on to win their only national championship under Lou Holtz.
Sunday, October 14, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, BASEBALL PLAYOFFS
- The Flyers lost another home game Saturday afternoon, losing a 1-0 heartbreaker to Vegas, which earned revenge from an opening night loss to Philadelphia. The Golden Knights scored late in the third period, after a 0-0 struggle all during the game.
Like last year, the Flyers have a tough time scoring goals and remain inconsistent. but at least Brian Elliot in goal was outstanding.
- Give the Dodgers credit for overcoming a 3-1 deficit in Milwaukee late in Game 2, in danger of falling in the NLCS to the Brewers 2-0. Instead, LA got a key two-run homer in the 8th inning to tie the series, 1-1. On to Los Angeles, where the brew Crew need to at least split.
Meanwhile, in Boston, the Astros showed they are a difference reigning champion. They are still hunger, beating the Red Sox 7-2 in Game 1 of their ALCS. The heat is on the Bosox now, needing to win Game 2 at home before heading to Houston.
Boston won 108 games this season and held off the Yankees in the first round of the playoffs. But the Astros are an entirely different animal. There is no weak link on the Houston team. I would be surprised if the Red Sox didn't come back, but for now, the Astros are proving why they are defending world champs and making the point they plan to remain on top for a while.
- When I visited Atlantic City about a month ago and visited the sport book at Resorts for the first time, I laid down three bets. 1. The Indians to win the World Series...loser. 2. The Eagles to win over 10 1/2 games...still too soon tot ell, but with a record of 3-3, winning 9 or 10 games my be enough to win NFC East- but not good enough for me to cash in. 3. The Sixers to win under 53 games this season. The 76ers start play on Tuesday in Boston. They are a good, young team, but not as good as last season. this bet won't play out until next spring.
One bet i was thinking of making and didn't was taking the new York Giants to win less than six games. Sadly, I bought into the idea that the Giants would be significantly better this season, especially with the addition of RB Barkley, who has played well so far. The G-men are a terrible team, in the midst of a brutal early schedule. At this point I would be shocked if new York won as many as six games all season.
Speaking of wagering, here are my NFL picks again today..
Patriots - 3 1/2 over Chiefs
Bengals - 1 1/2 over Steelers
Cowboys plus 3 over Jaguars
Broncos plus 7 over Rams
Like last year, the Flyers have a tough time scoring goals and remain inconsistent. but at least Brian Elliot in goal was outstanding.
- Give the Dodgers credit for overcoming a 3-1 deficit in Milwaukee late in Game 2, in danger of falling in the NLCS to the Brewers 2-0. Instead, LA got a key two-run homer in the 8th inning to tie the series, 1-1. On to Los Angeles, where the brew Crew need to at least split.
Meanwhile, in Boston, the Astros showed they are a difference reigning champion. They are still hunger, beating the Red Sox 7-2 in Game 1 of their ALCS. The heat is on the Bosox now, needing to win Game 2 at home before heading to Houston.
Boston won 108 games this season and held off the Yankees in the first round of the playoffs. But the Astros are an entirely different animal. There is no weak link on the Houston team. I would be surprised if the Red Sox didn't come back, but for now, the Astros are proving why they are defending world champs and making the point they plan to remain on top for a while.
- When I visited Atlantic City about a month ago and visited the sport book at Resorts for the first time, I laid down three bets. 1. The Indians to win the World Series...loser. 2. The Eagles to win over 10 1/2 games...still too soon tot ell, but with a record of 3-3, winning 9 or 10 games my be enough to win NFC East- but not good enough for me to cash in. 3. The Sixers to win under 53 games this season. The 76ers start play on Tuesday in Boston. They are a good, young team, but not as good as last season. this bet won't play out until next spring.
One bet i was thinking of making and didn't was taking the new York Giants to win less than six games. Sadly, I bought into the idea that the Giants would be significantly better this season, especially with the addition of RB Barkley, who has played well so far. The G-men are a terrible team, in the midst of a brutal early schedule. At this point I would be shocked if new York won as many as six games all season.
Speaking of wagering, here are my NFL picks again today..
Patriots - 3 1/2 over Chiefs
Bengals - 1 1/2 over Steelers
Cowboys plus 3 over Jaguars
Broncos plus 7 over Rams
Saturday, October 13, 2018
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, BASEBALL PLAYOFFS, FLYERS
- The Eagles are basking and resting after their victory over the Giants on Thursday night.They can heal and watch the Cowboys lose to Jacksonville and the Redskins lose to Carolina. The Panthers come to the Linc next Sunday afternoon. Will the Birds pick up another running back by then? How many of the injured players- Peters, Jones, Sproles- return for the Carolina game?
It's a home game and an NFC game, which will be more important to win then the London game against the Jaguars.
- Wow! The Brewers have won 12 in a row with their Game 1 defeat of the Dodgers in the NLCS. They are a fun, exciting team to watch, with a great bullpen. Small franchise team, shows what an organization can do without tons of revenue. The Brewers have made wise free agent signings and trades and have a good farm system.
The Dodgers also have a deep farm system but they do have money- plus the glitz and glamour- of LA, with all the stars. But are they as good of a team as Milwaukee?
If the Brewers win again today and go to Los Angeles up 2-0 it ill be an uphill battle for the Dodgers to get back into the series.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox and defending champion Astros play Game 1 of the ALCS in Boston tonight. Interesting series. A deep and talented world champion vs a team that won 108 games this season. I like the Bosox in 6 games, but wouldn't be surprised if Houston won and moved on. Getting at least a split in Boston this weekend will be big.
- The Flyers take on the defending Western conference champs, the Vegas Golden Knights, this afternoon in Philly. The Flyers opened the season in Las Vegas and won. the 2-2 Flyers. losing in embarrassing fashion 8-2 to San Jose in their home opener, can redeem themselves today against the Golden Knights, who will be looking for revenge.
It's a home game and an NFC game, which will be more important to win then the London game against the Jaguars.
- Wow! The Brewers have won 12 in a row with their Game 1 defeat of the Dodgers in the NLCS. They are a fun, exciting team to watch, with a great bullpen. Small franchise team, shows what an organization can do without tons of revenue. The Brewers have made wise free agent signings and trades and have a good farm system.
The Dodgers also have a deep farm system but they do have money- plus the glitz and glamour- of LA, with all the stars. But are they as good of a team as Milwaukee?
If the Brewers win again today and go to Los Angeles up 2-0 it ill be an uphill battle for the Dodgers to get back into the series.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox and defending champion Astros play Game 1 of the ALCS in Boston tonight. Interesting series. A deep and talented world champion vs a team that won 108 games this season. I like the Bosox in 6 games, but wouldn't be surprised if Houston won and moved on. Getting at least a split in Boston this weekend will be big.
- The Flyers take on the defending Western conference champs, the Vegas Golden Knights, this afternoon in Philly. The Flyers opened the season in Las Vegas and won. the 2-2 Flyers. losing in embarrassing fashion 8-2 to San Jose in their home opener, can redeem themselves today against the Golden Knights, who will be looking for revenge.
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