Early NFC Preview

This weekend is the very first weekend of the NFL season as Art Monk, and Darrell Green get inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, along with four others, and the first preseason game of the year will be held on Sunday. The Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins will face off in Canton, Ohio at 8 PM ET. I think it's time to take a look at how the NFC will shape up this year.

NFC North

Winner of Division: Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings have the best RB duo in the game, and a very tough offensive line to go along with it. This Division is very weak compared to last year with the questions surrounding the quarterbacks in Green Bay, and Chicago. As of right now, the Packers will be finishing third behind the offense-less Bears, and run-happy Vikings.

BOLD Predictions:

*Tarvaris Jackson throws for more yards than all three of Chicago’s quarterbacks combined.

*Brett Favre is not in a Packer uniform come September 4th.

Questions to be answered:

Once again, I bring up the Favre saga, but a few others include Jon Kitna’s Lions, and Chicago’s entire roster. I already established that the Vikings will win the North, but can Kitna follow through on his offseason ramblings (told the press he hopes to lead Detroit to a 10-win season). Chicago lost their top two wide receivers in Muhsin Muhammad, and Bernard Berrian, and cut running back Cedric Benson, as well. Grossman doesn’t quite have the leadership skills to lead this team to the playoffs on his own, so who will step up???

Bottom Line: This is the second-weakest NFC Division behind the NFC West. Minnesota, despite lack of a solid quarterback, may run away with this division if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t live up to Packer Nation’s expectations. Buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!

NFC East

Winner of Division: Dallas Cowboys

I am like every other Football whiz out there who doesn’t believe the Giants can repeat. Yes, I have gained confidence in Eli Manning’s abilities, and leadership, but he lost several key players on both sides of the ball, and Tony Romo’s ‘Boys are looking mighty hungry. Romo led Dallas to a 13-3 regular season record in 2007, look for him to match that performance this season. Owner Jerry Jones dealt running back Julius Jones, but drafted the young Felix Jones to fill in for Marion Barber every once in a while. You obviously can’t count out Donovan McNabb’s Eagles, who are looking pretty healthy at this point, and the Washington Redskins. Washington added Pro Bowl DE Jason Taylor, and added depth on offense in this year’s draft.

BOLD Predictions:

*Donovan McNabb stays healthy and leads the Eagles to a Wild Card berth, knocking off the defending Champions in the process.

*All four teams finish over .500.

Questions to be answered:

I believe McNabb will manage to finally stay healthy for all 16 games, but that is never a given. He has been battling injuries for the last several years, and anything can happen. The Eagles fate rides on the throwing arm of McNabb, and Philadelphia’s results will vary according to how he does this season. In D.C. the big question still involves Jason Campbell. Can he take his game to the next level and lead the ‘Skins to the playoffs?? That question has yet to be answered.

Bottom Line: Unlike the NFC North, this Division is very strong, and may be considered the toughest in the entire NFL. Therefore, it may be tough to decide a winner in August, and this may be the last Division clinched this season. We’ll just have to wait, and find out.

NFC South

Winner of Division: Carolina Panthers

It is Carolina’s year…to win the Division. Every year, it seems, there’s a new Division winner in the South, and the tradition will continue this season. Jake Delhomme seems to have made a remarkable comeback from Tommy John surgery, and the return of Muhsin Muhammad may mean a big year for Carolina’s passing offense. The running game has made a fresh start too, it seems. The departure of Deshaun Foster brought in Jonathan Stewart, the rookie out of Oregon. Stewart will be a nice complement to DeAngelo Williams, who is expected to have a solid season. The loss of Dan Morgan will be a big blow, but I don’t expect the defense to miss a beat with Julius Peppers hunting down quarterbacks.

BOLD Predictions:

*New Orleans’ Reggie Bush continues to be a draft bust, failing to reach 1,000 total yards for the Saints. But, newcomer Jeremy Shockey is named to the NFC Pro Bowl roster.

*Jake Delhomme accompanies Shockey on the NFC Pro Bowl roster, as Jeff Garcia proves he is past his prime for the Bucs.

Questions to be answered:

Obviously Delhomme isn’t guaranteed to make a strong comeback. So although I believe he will be back as strong as ever, anything can happen, and he still needs to prove himself to everyone. And, the questions surrounding Jeff Garcia, and whether Favre will be a Buc or not, still loom as training camp gets underway. Even more questions loom around New Orleans. Will Brees continue his Pro Bowl career, and can Deuce McAllister return to his normal form. And there’s always questions surrounding New Orleans’ defense. I have failed to even mention the Atlanta Falcons. Will Matt Ryan, rookie out of Boston College, be the starter come week 1? Who knows, I guess we’ll have to wait this one out.

Bottom Line: Carolina, in my book, is the team to beat. Not the defending Division Champion Tampa Bay Bucs, the Panthers from Carolina. I feel the Bucs have too many questions surrounding their offense. There is no need for 4-5 different quarterbacks, and “Cadillac” Williams has been battling injuries that last year or so. He may not be able to carry the load of 16 games this year. Earnest Graham is going to have to be on top of his game this season, just like last year.

NFC West

Winner of Division: Seattle Seahawks

I jumped on Arizona’s bandwagon last year, thinking they would run away with the Division with Matt Leinart under center. I was off by a long-shot, and don’t feel the need to go off on a limb this season, as well. Leinart, just like his USC teammate Reggie Bush, has yet to prove himself to NFL teams that he is the guy in Arizona. So, I’m gonna stick with the more popular pick in Matt Hasselbeck’s ‘Hawks. With the Shaun Alexander era over, and the Mike Holmgren era nearly wrapped up, looks like the Seahawks are looking for a fresh start. They added former Cowboy Julius Jones to their backfield, and of course their defense is always stellar. Looks like Seattle is still the team to beat in the West.

BOLD Predictions:

*Matt Leinart, not surprisingly, struggles at the helm for Arizona, and fails to capture even a Wild Card spot.

*Julius Jones puts Hasselbeck, and the entire ‘Hawks defense on his back, and leads them to the Division title.

Questions to be answered:

I am still really puzzled, and confused as to why Alex Smith is still the guy in San Fran. If he doesn’t throw more TD’s than INT’s this year, his job security is really going to be on the line. Can Frank Gore break 1,500 for the Niners? Well, whether he does or not, he really NEEDS to. I am really not sure how the Rams will fare this year. Their line is beat up still, and it seems a majority of their receivers are past their prime. The success of the offense all comes down to Steven Jackson, and how well the O-line protects Pro Bowl quarterback Marc Bulger.
Bottom Line: This Division, as usual, is weak. Once again it will probably be decided at around week 14 or 15. Seattle will win a solid 11 games, and run away with this division. Sorry for all you bandwagoners out there, but the Cardinals are going to disappoint once again this year. Neither of the two Wild Card spots will be coming from the Division. As a matter of fact, they may both come from the East.

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Wie to Participate in 8th PGA Tour Event

Michelle Wie, the 18-year old professional golfer and a member of the LPGA Tour, doesn’t deserve all the criticism she has received. Wie, who turned pro at age 16 in 2005, has yet to win an LPGA event, and has missed the cut in two majors.

Yes, it’s true that Wie hasn’t won a tournament in her professional career, and yes, she has accepted an invitation to play in her 8th PGA tour event. Wie failed to make the cut in all seven of her previous attempts in the PGA tour, and has been criticized by all for her poor performance. Her decision to play with the ‘boys’ has been questioned, as well.

Why can’t you blame Wie for all this? Well, first of all, she’s still very young. She hasn’t fully matured at the professional level yet. She obviously has talent. Back in the 2003 Nabisco Championship, Wie became the youngest player to make the cut in a LPGA major at age 13. That was not the only time Wie was the youngest in her sport. She became the youngest to qualify for a PGA Tour event in the 2004 Sony Open (age 14), the youngest to qualify for the Curtis Open in 2004, the youngest female to make a cut on the PGA Tour (2006, age 16), and even the youngest to make the cut on the Asian Tour (2006, age 16). The list goes on…

Clearly, Wie knows the game of golf, and has a passion for it. But not every golfer goes on to be the next Tiger Woods, who may be the richest, and most-known sports figure in today’s world. Give her some time to fully develop, and I think she’ll do just fine, maybe even win a few majors.

Why all the beef about the PGA Tour events? If you get an invitation to play the game you love at a higher level, and with more money at stake, wouldn’t you accept it? She is just attempting to elevate the women golfers to a new level, and prove that women can compete with men. I’m sure she doesn’t mind failing a few times in order to gain respect from the golf community. Just like what Danica Patrick, one of few women in the Stock Car world, did not long ago, Wie is attempting a feat that has yet to be accomplished. Reaching this goal of hers would, like I said, elevate the world of golf.

Her attempt, as expected, has been a failure so far, and has caused a lot of criticism. But in the end, this could pay high dividends to Michelle. I, for one, will be cheering her on when she tees off with the men, again. Is the eighth time the charm?

Brett Gets $20 Million to Stay at Home

Okay so the Brett Favre thing has been going on since the begging of time. However, the Packers and their team president Mark Murphy may have put the most interesting offer yet to the ageing gunslinger. Murphy traveled to Mississippi yesterday and offered Brett $20 million not to play next season or hold a clipboard. $20 million to sit at home and never play again. That's right $20 million over 10 years to sit at home. Damn that's a sweet deal.

I'm not going to lie, while this idea is boarder line crazy. I have to say it's a good idea and more importantly it may be the best way out. Obviously the Packers don't want Brett on their roster, and they only want to trade him to a place where they won't have to see him. This has become the most annoying contract showdown in history. Plus they are offering him $20 million to just hang out. I say take the money and run, he won't make that money under contract anywhere next season.

Deadline Day "Linkin' Logs" (7/31/08)

Well, today's doomsday for a big chunk of MLB teams...Practically half the league as I estimate at least 14 teams are within a reasonable striking distance of a playoff spot.

In my opinion, the Yankees pulled of the stunner, trading maligned reliever Kyle Farnsworth(less) for Ivan Rodriguez, who, while past his prime, is still better than Jose Molina, and knows what it takes to win.

Well the rest of the day should be filled with tons of fun...Links!

• Stay up to date on Trade Rumors with my favorite site; MLBtraderumors.com
• So Jeff Garcia got injured...Guess its time to order those Tampa Favre Jerseys
• Junior is a Sock...of the White variety
• Fun Fact...there's a Bill Belichick sex tape...
• Shawn Kemp's still getting work
• Sometimes when Mike Wilbon does PTI, he doesn't wear pants...really
• and finally..Brett Favre was offered $20 million to NOT play...seriously...
  

Those Daily "Linkin Logs" (7/30/08)

I had the pleasure of intermittently enjoying the Red Sox game last night (being a Bean town resident and all, though not a Sox fan) and laughing at all the poor fans watching their team get shut down...again.

John Lackey, part time Angels starter - part time fantasy starter (pour moi) was unbelievable until the 9th and then positively human, after allowing a tough single past the shortstop. Kevin Youkilis (known Manny Hater) homered to bring Lackey from ultimate high to "eff it, CG is good enough." Regardless, it was well done.

• J.P. Ricciardi through the gauntlet down when Greg Zaun asked for a trade. To quote (thanks to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com): "We're aware that Zaunie is unhappy. We wish he wouldn't go through the media with it. We wish he would come to us, especially knowing we have a good relationship. Unfortunately, right now, there are no takers for him. If there are, we'll definitely oblige him."
• Ricky Williams is back...mostly because he can't afford munchies right now
• Say what you want about Eagles Hanger on Jamal Jones, but he gives all he's got...and that's 100%, not 110%, because we all know that's bullshit
• Also from Philly, the Eagles will be spending 3 days with NFL officials discussing the new defensive radio options. In theory it seems simple and helpful, but based on this article, in practice it might become difficult if not downright confusing.
• Hey Barry Switzer got a job!
• ESPN - We've run out of ideas
• And finally, thanks to deadspin; Oh Morgantown, why am I not surprised
  

Missin' some "Linkin' Logs" (7/29/08)

The bug'll get ya every once and a while. In this case, some extreme work issues followed up by a busy evening resulted in the missing links.

Regardless, today I'll do my best to give you some Favre free links (shit...)

• Tim Donaghy is fuuuuucked
• Apparently the Yankees and Mariners are caught in a baseball version of chicken. The Yankees want Jarrod Washburn, but are unwilling to part with more than a middling prospect, however, they are willing to pay all of his remaining salary. The Mariners want a higher level prospect. Both want to deal (Yankees to get a pitcher, Mariners to continue the dump/retooling), but neither is willing to give/take more. My guess is this deal gets done by Thursday.
• Also, apparently Mark Teixeira is all but traded, but to who and for what is practically unknown. Some are suggesting the deal is all but in place, while others don't even know where Tex is going
• Brought to you by Thefightins.com, Will Ohman's Saturday lineup. I have to admit, Ohman certainly is elevated in my book...
• Thanks to Deadspin.com, 2 UVA football players were recently arrested for stealing beer at a gay bar (Deadspin notes that UVA has the gayest mascot ever) Admittedly, I've already said everything interesting in this story, but the reason to click the link is for the one player's faux hawk...seriously, totally worth it!
• We here at BNB are huge fans of PFT (ProFootballtalk for the layman) and this will be just one of many PFT gems. Apparently Pacman Jones just can't shed Pacman. PFT speculates this is because everyone calls him Pacman and it won't stop.
• Posada Done. Hudson Done. Isringhausen...not so much.
• 4% of the Salary Cap for a Kick returner/??? Brilliant!
• And (while this has little to do with Sports). This recent Mr. T/Snickers spot has been pulled for being Anti-Gay. Feel free to e-mail links@badnewsbloggers.com to tell me why...seriously
  

On The Brink: An NFC West Preview

The NFC West last year was perhaps one of the least exciting divisions to follow in the entire NFL. The only remotely successful team, Seattle, had their ups and downs during the season but generally had the division on lock by the end of Week 4.

There were many reasons for such non-parity.

The Rams were racked by injuries and were tasked with playing with a 'Replacement-esque' offensive line. Marc Bulger was sacked fifty times per game and Stephen Jackson missed much of the season due to injury.

The 49ers, such a trendy sleeper pick these past couple years regressed once again and Alex Smith flirted with having his name thrown in with Ryan Leaf’s. Having the worst offense in the league, combined with a mediocre (at best) defense eventually summed up to a not-so-great year for San Francisco.

Arizona, who showed a bit of promise last year, was still playing with Kurt Warner as their starter thanks to a disappointing and injured Matt Leinart. Although he guided them to an 8-8 record, Warner showed his age and the offense lacked the explosiveness it could have potentially had with Leinart under center.

Going into this year, the hopes are high for each team. The 49ers have brought in Mike Martz to improve their anemic offense. The Rams are going into the season with a healthy Stephen Jackson, Marc Bulger and offensive line – all three things that make their offense scary. Seattle signed Julius Jones in the hopes he could be a big part of a potential committee at RB, although their WR situation at the moment is iffy. Finally, Arizona still has Larry Fitzgerald and Anquin Boldin on their offense and that’s essentially all that matters. Although they are hoping that this is the year that Matt Leinart finally realizes he is in fact a professional quarterback.

However, every team goes into the year with a positive attitude. If they didn’t than it would be scary, unprofessional and a bit pathetic. Thankfully, we the fans can be the realists and sort out who has a shot, who doesn’t and who probably should be the reason the NFL creates a minor league system.

The good thing is that every team in the NFC West is on a relatively equal playing field, save for San Francisco unless they make an extreme turnaround. It really could go a multitude of different ways and the season’s outcome, like every year, will depend upon a variety of factors.


Division prediction:
St. Louis (10-6)
Arizona (8-8)
Seattle (8-8)
San Francisco (6-10)

A healthy St. Louis offense is a potent offense and even though they lost Isaac Bruce to the 49ers, the offense still has the ability to put up huge numbers especially if Stephen Jackson can remain healthy. With little to no pass rush last year, Marc Bulger did everything he could to will the team to a win but to no avail. Still, he looked impressive for a QB who was basically playing in the face of a constant pass rush and the threat of broken ribs.

The secondary should improve with the off-season signing of David Macklin and the defensive line will get an instant upgrade with the arrival of Chris Long. While the Rams defense wasn’t the worst in the league last year, it can use the help and if it can be at least average, the offense will take care of the rest.

The Cardinals proved last year that they are finally to be taken seriously… or at least somewhat seriously. Having gone .500 last year, the only way they can go up is to make the playoffs and breaking even again or anything less would generally be regarded as a disappointment. It all rests on the well-moisturized, hot-tub-loving arm of Matt Leinart (what, is that joke dead yet?).

The defense, like the Rams was mediocre last year but has been improved upon with free agency and the draft. The key to the Cardinals season is going to be whether or not Matt Leinart can step it up and if Edgerrin James can continue to at least be mildly productive. If Leinart gets injured or cannot step into the starting role well, Kurt Warner can only take them so far. He’s performed valiantly up until now but it’s time for Leinart to show what he’s got, if anything.

It came as no surprise when the Seahawks offense declined slightly when Shaun Alexander fell off the map. On a side-note, what exactly happened to Shaun Alexander? One minute he’s breaking the rushing touchdown record and the next minute he’s a free agent and no one wants to sign him. It’s all very weird if you ask me.

The Seahawks fortunately still have Matt Hasselbeck in his prime. Unfortunately, his receiving corps is awfully banged up and mediocre when otherwise. The running back situation is still up in the air with T.J. Duckett, Maurice Morris and Julius Jones all competing for playing time. The defense was a tad above average last year and should see rookie Lawrence Jackson from USC make a significant impact.

Lastly, we have the San Francisco 49ers who after the Dolphins were easily the worst team in the NFL last year. The offense was horrible. It was horrendous. It was every possible bad term you could come up with all rolled into one nasty word.

Mike Nolan has brought in offensive guru Mike Martz to try and help turn things around and more importantly, try and kick Alex Smith’s ass into gear. Martz, who is known for his quarterback mentoring looks to turn the 49ers offense around with his extremely complicated yet amazingly effective offensive system.

It may not be the strongest division in football, but the 2008 season should be an interesting one in the NFC West. The Seahawks, who are going for their fifth consecutive division title in 2008 look awfully vulnerable and both the Rams and Cardinals have realistic shots at ending that streak this year. The 49ers are the wild card in the whole thing and while they realistically don’t have much of a chance of taking the division, I wouldn’t put it past them to finally be the sleeper team the year that everyone’s given up on them as a sleeper team. It’s just how the NFL works.

Daily Erin Andrews:When Did the LPGA Get So Hot?

Okay so I have to give a shout out and a thank you to Golf Girl on this one, but the ladies of the LPGA are just flat out beautiful. Don't believe me? Take a look at who is competing in the upcoming British Open.

On The Brink: AFC South Preview

With all of us thankfully on the brink of the pre-season, I've decided it's time to finally bang out my division previews. I wanted to do them back in late April but felt it was a tad too early. But with the pre-season now a little over a week away -- well, I don't think I need to explain the title anymore. As always, enjoy and feel free to agree with my genius in the comments. Or make fun of me... whichever you'd prefer.

An argument could be made that the AFC South is the best division in football. Granted, such an argument would get completely destroyed by anyone who was aware of the NFC East’s existence, but it’s in the conversation none-the-less. It can be said, though, that it is the best division in the AFC. So there’s that.

The Colts have had the division on lock for what seems like the last century, but it’s becoming clear that the other teams in the division have realistic expectations of one day obtaining the divisional crown. For the first time in a long time, the Colts have a realistic shot of not winning the AFC South. The team with the best shot of toppling the Colts is the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have consistently moved closer and closer towards being on the same level as Indianapolis and have now found a capable QB who makes limited mistakes and makes plays when the team needs him to. He’s no Peyton Manning, sure -- well at least not yet.

The Texans showed promise at the start of last year but couldn’t close it out due to injuries to key players on offense and a young (albeit blossoming) defensive unit. Should Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson stay healthy this year, they have enough firepower to go blow for blow with the Colts if they can stay on their A game.

Then there’s the Titans who everyone seems to write off but are consistently in it when all‘s said and done these past couple years. The offense is absolutely loaded with young talent at each skill position and the unit has the potentially to really evolve this year. Would it have killed the organization to get a legit wide receiver for Vince Young to throw to that isn’t young and still unproven? Muhsin Muhammad? Bernard Berrian? Donte Stallworth? Maybe it’s all overreaction; the Titans front office does do this for a living after all. But then again, that does not guarantee eventual success (see: The New York Knicks).

Although either Houston or Tennessee could surprise everyone and become one of the few teams that has a Cinderella season, the likely battle for the division title will come down to Indianapolis and Jacksonville. Although the Jaguars lost defensive lineman Marcus Stroud to free agency, they focused on the defensive line early on in the draft and should be just fine in that department. Also, don’t be surprised if Quentin Groves turns out to be the best defensive rookie selection by any team in the divisi-- nay, the league.

With Fred Taylor showing no signs of slowing down, his play will eventually start declining as he continues to get up there in age. Luckily for the Jaguars, Maurice Jones-Drew is poised to accept the starting role and could become one of the best running backs in the league should he see even more playing time. Should Garrard be able to prove that last year was not a fluke and continue to play like a top tier QB, the Jaguars have what it takes to finally topple the mighty Colts this year.

The Jaguars have all of the pieces in place to be challenging the Colts for the AFC South crown for many years to come. Not just that, if they continue to plug their weaknesses through smart free agency signings and strong drafting, they’re set up to be a Super Bowl contender for the next couple years as well.

To reluctantly sample a Mercury Morris’ quote, Indianapolis, meet Jacksonville. They got in your neighborhood two years ago, pulled up to your house last year and are now threatening to beat down the door.

Nine days left boys and girls. Stay tuned for the rest of the league.

Division projection:

Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)
Indianapolis Colts (11-5)
Houston Texans (8-8)
Tennessee Titans (8-8)

Hand Off to the "Linkin' Logs" (7/25/08)

Some interesting news out of California today. Piedmont, CA head football coach Kurt Bryan and their director of Football Operations Steve (don't call me Stan) Humphries have come up with perhaps the most stunning football development not seen since the creation of the Shotgun.

Well, last season Piedmont High's football minds developed a method in which to make all players on the field eligible receivers. The system is based on the idea of having two quarterbacks, and a base offense that consisted of a center, two tight ends book ending him, six receivers (split three on each side) and two Quarterbacks, one playing deep in the backfield (seven plus yards). This offense was nicknamed the "Pluto offense" but later became the "A-11 Offense" as in all 11 players can become receivers. The offense even has an official website: www.a11offense.com, which describes itself as "an innovative offense blending aspects of the spread option, West Coast and run and shoot."

And while reviewing the rules and working with league officials, Bryan and Humphries became sure the offense could be legal. While only five receivers are actually eligible, the other seven players move and can make different plays in the backfield, nevermind the two QBs who can easily lateral to eachother creating even more options. So twenty years from now, when you see the A-11 in the pros, harkin back to Bryan and Humphries, the innovators.

• I thought Kerry Wood was on the DL last week... What makes it more entertaining is that is retroactive to July 14th, even though he was placed on the DL on the 24th, which means Wood is eligible to return on the 29th, or next Tuesday...
• Apparently MLB is conducting a study of broken bats from last season and the current one. One average one bat is broken per game. Good ole Cholly Manuel has the best solution; "better bats." But really, he's more interested in quality handles, which have gotten much thinner over the years...there's a good place to start.
• We can only hope the Cubbies get into a brawl after calling up this prospect.
• 76ers add the nut-puncher
• Jason Cole of Yahoo is apparently leading rumblings that the Favre talks are reaching a head. The Packers will come up with a list of teams and Favre will allow them to move forward. Two words: Tampa & Bay
• Great Player and Good Guy, Good Bye Rod Smith
• Who the fuck is Adam Jones? And why does that asshole need to be reinstated? Oh? What? Make it Rain!
• Penn State held a one man practice last night, that ended with one student attempting to take home the Alamo Bowl Trophy
• And of course, thanks to AA, Sweet Jesus! Awesome Baseball Brawl!

BNB Exclusive: Justin Sits Down with Venom from American Gladiators

On January 6, 2008, American Gladiators redebuted on NBC. Due to the writers strike, AG became a relative hit and easily complemented NBC’s lineup with such shows as “Deal or No Deal.” "Hosted by Hulk Hogan and Laila Ali, the show matches amateur athletes against each other and the show's own "gladiators" in contests of strength, agility, and endurance. It is a revival of the original American Gladiators which ran from 1989-1996, with elements of the UK version of the 1990s. An average of 12 million people watched the two-hour premier" (Wikipedia).

On May 12, 2008, AG was back and better than ever, debuting 8 new Gladiators over the course of the season but retaining many fan favorites. Among the returning gladiators was the ferocious "Venom" also known as Beth Horn, an a passionate woman who never saw a dream too big to chase or a goal to far to ignore. Justin Yost recently spent time e-mailing Beth:

Your first steps as a gladiator were made in September of 2007, just a week after a fitness competition? Why'd you decide to make the move from competitions such as fitness and figure to something more in line with direct competition, such as Gladiators?

I had not competed in fitness in over four years. I decided to do another show just for fun & it was actually my first figure competition. A week later my coach told me about the auditions. I was hesitant at first because I was out of town, but my coach said you have to come back home for this. Once I was committed, I was extremely psyched about the show. I thought, “This could be big”! I told them from day one, “I want to be a Gladiator”. That was my goal and that was my intention for the next four months!

Anyone who's done anything remotely athletic or follows most major sports knows that a torn ACL is one of the more devastating injuries. You've down it twice and yet we watch you on American Gladiators every week. What's your secret?

You have got to keep your body strong, especially the quads & hamstrings. My workouts are extremely athletic, which is key. It is all about performing athletically. My workouts are full of sprinting, jumping, plyos, etc. I do not do any cardio and very little weights. My trainer, Bob Dixon is a genius at what he does. He constantly changes everything up and keeps it challenging & fun.

Sure, I get it, you snare them in with charm and good looks and then strike them with your bite. But seriously, "Venom", where'd that come from?'

Venom was a collaboration of all the Gladiators and NBC coming up with names and characters. I like it. There is no known antidote for Venom! :)~

Both you and Michael O'Hearn (Titan) are known for a more holistic way of training. Have you ever compared notes?

I have never compared notes with Mike, so I don’t know what his holistic approach is. I feel the mind & body are so connected. I work on myself on every level- physically, mentally, emotionally & spiritually. When you workout, eat healthy, sleep enough, you feel incredible inside and out. Everyone wants to look good, but feeling great is the best. Health is everything. When you have your health you should be happy and grateful. I believe we are spiritual beings having a physical experience, so enjoy what life has to offer!

You've faced some adversity and some disappointment (so many third place finishes!) and yet you have such a positive attitude. Is that the key to your success and what advice would you give to someone to help them remain positive?

In fitness, the top two places turned professional. I placed third, three times in a row at all the Nationals. I was so frustrated! Twelve weeks out before my last chance to qualify that year, I was walking at the beach, stepped down & broke my foot in two places! From that point on, I told myself never again will I let negative thoughts, negative energy and people get to me like that again. I got back to my positive attitude and wrote down on my note card, “I am the Overall National Fitness Champion”. I indeed became champion on November 11, 2000.

My positive attitude has been crucial to my career and my life. Our thoughts are energy. When you are thinking positively, you are creating positive feelings. These thoughts & feelings are creating what you are bringing into your life! Replace a negative thought with a positive one. Enjoy & feel those positive feelings & follow up with your positive actions.

I know this seems a bit unfair but, numerous rogue bloggers have claimed that American Gladiators is nothing more than low budget professional wrestling and is completely staged. Have any thoughts on that matter?

WHAT!? Are you kidding me!? American Gladiators is completely real & it is 100% pure competition!!! We go all out on every competitor. I give 100% every time I am in the Gladiator arena. This is my Olympics! I am going to give that contender everything I have, so look out!!

What do you think of the former contestants-turned-gladiators from last season? Any animosity amongst the gladiators of the old class versus the new class? (Sharks and Jets maybe?)

I think Jet & Rocket did a terrific job this season as Gladiators. I thought they looked great on camera & performed well. They fit right in with all of us. We have an amazing bunch of Gladiators. I love all of them! I think Jet & Rocket found it much harder than they thought it would be, being on our side as Gladiators this time around!

From my sit down with "Wolf" we learned that events were essentially given on a first come first serve basis. You've ended up doing quite a few events, but which one is your favorite and why?

I would say we do the events we are strongest in. I am happy that I am able to do any of the events, but my favorites are the Wall & Hang Tough. These two events are by far the most challenging! On the rings you never know what is going to happen & there really is no ‘game plan’. The Wall is just a difficult course and it is 50 feet high. I like a great challenge. However, the new event, Sideswipe is the ultimate blast, just not quite as challenging.

We can't all be gladiators forever, eventually, when you finish, what's next?

Well, I will always be a Gladiator! I am Venom forever. J I just finished my first movie (Wolf is in it too!) It is called Fancypants & it will be out in 2009. We both played pro-wrestlers and even had a fight scene together. This was choreographed, unlike Gladiators & it was an awesome experience. I plan on doing more T.V. and movies. I will have my own show one day. I would like to play a Super Hero and a James Bond girl in movies. I am working on several projects, including training/workout dvds. I will continue to promote health and fitness through out my life as well as inspire people to follow their dreams and believe in themselves.

As Venom, you're pretty fearsome, but which other gladiator do you fear the most (Personally, If I run into Justice in the street, I'm passing…and you can tell Wolf I said that)?'

I have to say I love all the Gladiators! I know them so well and I know they are really great people with warm hearts, so I really fear none of them! However watching it on T.V. as a spectator, Wolf, Toa & Militia are kinda scary!

And for some fun ones…
favorite pizza topping?
thin crust; pepperoni!
Mini-van or SUV?
Mini-van? no way! SUV- if it’s a hybrid.
Ice Cream Flavor (no chocolate, vanilla or strawberry…I'm talking real flavors here!)?
Believe it or not I do not like ice cream! I like frozen yogurt. Vanilla!
Favorite sports team?
Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs & Sox! (Yes, I am from Chicago!)
Coke or Pepsi?
if I have to pick, Coke
Favorite TV Show?
do you have to ask? “AMERICAN GLADIATORS!” & Top Model
When you were a kid, where did you see yourself at your current age?
No, I never saw myself at this age as a kid!
Okay, last one. You strike me as someone who's got a few moves of her own. Ever teach your Husband a thing or two about being a Gladiator?

Ha! He would tell you “I taught her everything she knows!” He did teach me how to tackle for Powerball!

Any last words Beth?
Be grateful for everything. Have fun in life & enjoy each and everyday. Dream big & go for it. You can do anything you put your mind to!

I'd like to thank Beth Horn for taking the time to talk with me. She was a pleasure and a treat. You can visit Beth's website at http://www.bethhorn.com/

Think you've got what it takes to beat a gladiator? Find out by auditioning here.

''You can see Venom and all the Gladiators on the return of “American Gladiators,” next Monday, July 28 at 8:00PM on NBC.''

Training Camp is in the Air - "Linkin' Logs" (7/24/08)

Of course it would happen that way. The Phillies and the Mets square off today, at high noon (okay, 10 after) to decide who gets to lead the division for another day and really, who has momentum going into the next 60 games. The teams will meet 5 more times, namely in late August and (again) in early September and that will probably be it, baring a meeting in the NLCS. Needless to say, it should be an entertaining 2 and 1/2 months.

But really, the stories of from here on out will mostly involve football, as most teams are beginning to or already have opened training camp, signaling the beginning of the pure entertainment otherwise known as Football.

We'll do our best to keep you aprized of any entertaining developments but for now...Links!

• I wonder if 50 year old WNBA players can fight as well? At least she won't get pregnant...right?
• Our condolences to Pedro Martinez, who's father, Pablo, passed away last night at the age of 79 after a long battle with brain cancer. Martinez left last night's game in the 7th to take a charter flight to the Domincan Republic. We can only hope that Mr. Martinez's death is met with some measure of relief, as he has been suffering for months. For now, most baseball fans understand that Pedro needs to focus on what's really important and we at BNB wish him and his family the best.
• If you thought the Atlanta Braves were already looking to be in trouble, now they're completely effed!
• And then there were Five (bidders for the cubbies)
• Come on Red Sox; Manny Ramirez "mysteriously" has a sore right knee, its almost August and the team is battling for a playoff spot...he obviously just wants to take a little vacation time.
• Only in America would anyone pay Steve Bartman to show up...anywhere
• And now he's texting too? What is this, high school?
• There's a showdown brewing in Chicago between Devin Hester and the Bears...betcha Hester wins...
• Hey look, Donte Stallworth is hurt...personally, I'm shocked...
• One thing this BNB "writer" takes pride in is pointing out the stupidity of Keith Hernandez. Exhibit A, Keith storing this little kitty in his spank bank
• While we're at it, The Fightin's also gave us this little ditty about Chris Wheeler layin' it down on Jose Reyes's antics. Can't say I don't disagree...I'd love to smack the smile right off that guy's face...really...
• They're letting Merrill Hodge out of his cage? Shit....
• And Deadspin has some nice info on the Army porking Detroit Lions TE Caleb Campbell right before he could get into camp. Alright Army, this is not exactly the way to get good PR...

Update: Screw it, i might be willing to Jose Canseco this whole thing just to take a swing at Reyes. Am I going to be a sore loser? Sure, why the hell not. Jose Reyes isthe definition of a classless player; Pissed at the ump for not getting your way? Check Fist pumps at every home run? Check Stomp around the field after being called out on a stolen base? Check Think your wise-ass smile will give you popularity around the league? Check.

Maybe its just the typical fight for first (and losing) thing that makes my blood boil, but does anyone else think this Mets team is just slightly more pansy-assed than anyone else. Barry Sanders always put it best; "Act like you've been there before."

Bottom Line: I'd still slap the smile off his face. Who's with me?!

Johan Gets Fucked...Again!

The Philadelphia Phillies traveled to New York to open up a three-game series with the Mets, yesterday. Both teams, as many of you may know, shared the National League East lead (both teams went into the contest at 53-46). Mets' ace Johan Santana, who hadn't earned a win in several starts, was on the mound facing off with Philly's newly acquired Joe Blanton, who was making his first start with the squad.

As expected, Santana got off to a quick start, and ended up going 8 strong innings, with two earned runs, and 4 K's. An RBI double off David Wright's bat, accompanied by a two-run shot hit by Carlos Delgado--his 19th of the season--gave New York a 3-1 lead through three innings at Shea. Ramon Castro extended the Mets' lead to 5-1 with another two-run homer in the bottom of the sixth inning, scoring Marlon Anderson.

The Phillies' Shane Victorino added one more run in the seventh for Philadelphia, but going into the the ninth inning Philadelphia was down three runs, after New York failed to add a few insurance runs in the 8th inning.

Twenty-five year old second baseman, Argenis Reyes, pinch hit for Santana in the bottom of the eighth inning, since Santana had already thrown 105 pitches. So, Jerry Manuel, needing to make a quick call to the bullpen in the top of the ninth, called on Duaner Sanchez. Sanchez gave up three earned runs on just three hits , and failed to record a single out. Joe Smith, who was eventually given the loss, gave up the go-ahead run. Finally Pedro Feliciano, and Aaron Heilman came in and got the three outs, but Pedro gave up two more runs, and walked a guy while he was at it.

Phillie closer Brad Lidge closed out the bottom of the ninth inning to clinch the comeback-win in New York, of course. The save was awarded to Lidge, which was his 22nd of the season. As you can see, the Mets have really missed Billy Wagner, who will only miss a few games. And..Johan would've REALLY helped my slumping fantasy team had his bullpen been able to close out the game. Damn you New York!!

Drop a Deuce...or a "Linkin' Log" (7/23/08)

I'm still pretty pumped up about the 6 run flurry the Phils suprised everyone with last night. That being said, its always a hollow victory if you can't back it up with more Ws to take a division lead.

All gloating aside, beating Santana in the 9th (aka taking advantage of the bullpen) certainly adds fuel to the fire of this "rivalry" (because its not really all that much of a rivalry). Insufferably Mets fans will have you think that this Philadelphia franchise has always been a fraud, but when a team finally (Finally!) tries to do right by its fanbase (or as close as you're ever gonna get), it's ashame that another team's fanbase (alright, schmuck 1 in 10 fans) needs to find some reason to prove their better, even if the standings aren't it. But for the rest of the sufferable ones (the other 9 of 1o) its really just hoping a few things roll the right way, because otherwise you have no control...

that and come September it won't matter, its Eagles season for me!

Links!

• Jon Rauch is a D-Bag (heh), Randy Wolf is an Astro, while Mike Hampton returns from another DL stint and Brett Myers returns from a bout of suckatude
• Chicago's baseball is apparently sketchy as hell
• Wait...trades are coming? Hank and Hal Steinbrenner are involved...Yessssss!
• Packers talking to Bucaneers...ok, not exactly, but you can't tell me they're not thinking "but the Bucs'll pay soooo much!"
• Poor Brian Urlacher...56 mil just wasn't enough (plus the Vitamin Water!)
• So apparently The Sport News released an online sports "newspaper." Am I the only who's thinking "what the shit? This has existed for years". And besides, just because others aren't in "newspaper" form doesn't mean they're not the same...its just pointless and kind of a waste of time (on both the editors and readers).
• Chicks Fighting! (Caution: not that cool)
• And thanks to Deadspin...Cool!

Quick Pick "Linkin' Logs" (7/22/08)

Busy day for this BadNewsBlogger, but I'd be remiss to not provide at least a few links. But rather than mostly news-esque items (read: legitimate information) I'll just give you some good ole blog items.

I'll also quickly gloat about the Phils stunning 6 run 9th to take control of the NL East. Beating Santana is nice (Even if Blanton was...eh?), but its a 3 game set and the mood can change just as fast as 1 (long) inning.

Links!

• The700level.com backs up my shit
• also via the700level, a nice look at the soft side of Sir Charles
• "1girl1cake" - Yes, it exists...and yeah, its pretty weird
• Alright, I've got a good reason to watch the LPGA...
• Ok, this one's kinda cool. Apparently, there's a pretty obvious reason the Packers knew Brett Favre was talking to the Vikings...it might have something to do with the (*Packers Issued*) cell phone Favre was using to talk to Brad Childress....I mean, merely hypothetical they were chatting about football...
• When you're engraving Super Bowl rings you should never use the phrase "Close enough"
• Formerly of Deadspin, Will Leitch previews the Phils-Mets series. But let's play a game...read Leitch's last paragraph and find the mistake (at least I'm fairly confident its a mistake)...its not a typo or some grammar bullshit...its a straight-up brain-fart mistake...fire that editor
• I love donating to charity (even if it is just my old clothes...), but this kinda takes the cake as far as stupid things to care about...and yeah, i love dogs...
  

The Top 10 Fantasy Football Do Not's

Normally I would try and write a riveting introduction to this article -- but I think the title pretty much explains it as much as it needs to be. So, take notes, learn some things and as always -- at least try and enjoy.

This picture has nothing to do with this article, but I thought everyone would probably enjoy it.

10. Taking your team name too seriously

The Beantown Brawlers? Seriously? First off, you’ve never been a brawl. And second off, you don’t even live in Boston. You live in Abington. So either pick a better name, or try and name your team something that doesn’t blatantly reveal that you think your tough and/or take yourself entirely too seriously. On the extreme end of this, don’t name your team something stupid -- like The Windy City Farters. There is lots of opportunity to act like your twelve years old in fantasy football, but naming your team isn’t one of them.

9. Letting your girlfriend/wife in on the action

While I’m all for girlfriend/wife participation to some extent in fantasy sports, you better not be letting it happen if your league is for money. If it is, than you sir, are a dumb ass. If utilized wisely, this “mistake” can actually turn your usual bickering Sundays into easy-riding football marathons. “But honey, we need to watch the Sunday Night Football game because we have Kevin Kolb on our bench and we need to see how he reacts being on an actual bench during a primetime game. It’s one of the keys to our season!”

8. Thinking your “sleepers” will actually turn out to be sleepers

I don’t care how much you know about football, the whole sleeper business is a crock of shit. Most of the sleepers people pick aren’t even sleepers at all, unless you define a sleeper as someone who everyone knew about and wasn‘t all surprised when they began to have a good season. I’m sorry, but Frank Gore is not a sleeper. Idiot.

7. Not having a draft plan

If you just go into a draft with nothing but your “knowledge” to guide you, than I don’t know what to tell you. You need to know your leagues scoring, you need to know how many of each position you need to start and you need to know the inner-workings of those who are drafting with you. This is why I’m a staunch supporter of friend leagues where you can smack-talk face to face, as opposed to the free Yahoo! Leagues in which no one knows each other, but everyone seems to know each others mother. The more you know about your opponents, the better you can add to your draft plan -- and if you don’t have a draft plan at all, then why the hell are you playing fantasy football?

6. Buying too many fantasy football magazines

I can actually attest to committing this mistake. However, one day it hit me. Most of the magazines that are available for fantasy football, or fantasy anything for that matter, have pretty much the same information -- just in a different layout and with slightly different words. It’s sort of like in high school when you tried to turn that one sentence fact into a four paragraph essay. At least, that’s what I did in high school.

5. Buying into hype

Most of the time, hype doesn’t really produce actual results. It just produces enough hype for you to buy into it and eventually lose games, money and points. And as we all know, those three go hand in hand. See: Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart. Hey, they both went to USC. Weird.

4. Buying into upside

Upside is all well and great, but if can often get you into trouble. Most of us aren’t narcissists so we always try and look at the upside of a player but sometimes too much so. Like that time when I called everyone to write down that I was predicting Mewelde Moore as the next great running back. That didn’t turn out so well, as I’m sure you know. It still haunts me to this day.

3. Taking the smack talk just a tad too far

Yes, if your among friends you can push the limits and call a remembrance of the time your friend hooked up with that fat girl that looked like a guy. However, calling a remembrance of the time your recently defeated opponent cried because his cat died -- okay, that’s still okay. Pretty much everything is fair game in regards to smack talk. Just don’t joke about any terminally fatal diseases or anything you asshole.

2. Showing up drunk to the draft

Want to draft three kickers, make four trades and profess your love for your friends brother sister? Then drink up, champ. Nothing kicks off a fantasy football season than showing that your only weakness is a thing called booze -- then having everyone subsequently try and get you drunk and make lopsided trades. It’s fun while your getting free drinks and all, but when you wake up the next morning and discover that you’ve traded Larry Fitzgerald for Mark Clayton and Devery Henderson -- well, that’s not as much fun.

1. As a matter of fact, doing anything drunk in regards to fantasy football

Trades, drafting, smack-talk -- if I had to write a fantasy football guide in regards to ‘Do Not Do These Things’ than alcohol would be prominently involved in each one. Take every reason on this list, add some alcohol and you’ve got yourself a potent mixture that will almost always end badly. If your in a money league, than just don’t get drunk. Just don’t do it. Your either going to drunk dial your ex or trade Stephen Jackson for a bag of jelly beans. Neither will end well.

Taylor, Shockey Sent Packing

Two big-time NFL football stars are now on the move. In the past two days both Jason Taylor of the Miami Dolphins, and Jeremy Shockey of the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants have been traded, and will be in a new uniform this fall.

Defensive end Jason Taylor will be shipped off to Washington D.C. for two draft picks—one in the 2009 draft, the other in the 2010 draft. The Dolphins’ motive to trade Taylor was his partial differences with the Executive Vice President of Football Operations, Bill Parcells. The move was complete just two days after rumors about a possible trade were started. The season-ending injury to current defensive end, Phillip Daniels, on the very first day of practice, was just the icing on the cake. The trade, which will allow Miami to allow more youth to the already young team, was finalized Monday when Taylor passed his physical, and was formally introduced as the newest Redskin team member.

New York Giant tight end, Jeremy Shockey, was also traded for two draft picks, both in the 2009 draft. Shockey will be headed to New Orleans to play for Sean Payton’s Saints. It’s quite obvious Shockey is no longer wanted in New York, especially after the Giants won the Super Bowl with him on the bench. Yes, Shockey was a first-round draft pick in 2002, and has four Pro Bowls to his name, but Shockey has had disagreements with the organization for several years now, and it was time for a change. Jeremy will be the go-to guy in New Orleans, and I’m sure Drew Brees will be glad to have a player of his caliber on the team.

When you break it all down, there really is no “winner” or “loser” in these two trades. Washington was looking for a superstar to replace the 35-year old Daniels at the defensive end position, Miami and New York were just trying to do what’s best for their organization, and New Orleans needed a playmaker to accompany Brees, and Reggie Bush on the offensive side of the ball.

Look for Shockey, and Taylor to make an immediate impact on their new teams, whether it be attracting more fans, or making big plays on the field. Both these guys will be Pro Bowlers come time in February.

Walker-Sports AFC East Preview

As we all eagerly wait on the upcoming football season, let’s continue our look around the NFL, today we will switch conferences and take a look at the AFC East. There’s a lot going on in this division, but it’s pretty straight forward to guess what the outcome of this conference will be.

New England Patriots: 17-1 pretty damn good unless that one lost came in the biggest game of the year. Everyone knows the story of the Patriots, and you can believe they will use the disappointment at the end of the story as fuel to climb back to the top of the mountain in 08. The Patriots will go to battle with the usual cast of characters. Their offense will have the same quick pace and explosive scoring ability as it did last season. I doubt they will break scoring records like last season, but they will not struggle to get into the endzone. Look for the Pats to change it up the attack plan just a bit this season. They will move Moss around and get him into the slot and let Welker play the outside. While this will cut into Welker’s numbers it will open up more opportunities for Moss. It will be hard for a defense to get a corner and a safety on him when he comes out of the slot where a nickel back or a linebacker would typically be the first line of defense.

On the defensive side the Pats lost some talent in the secondary with the departure of Ashanti Samuel. However, they were very active in free agency and have found very good replacements and in typical Patriots fashion it will cost the franchise a lot less cash. The biggest pickup in the off season has to be drafting Jerod Mayo at linebacker. Mayo will make an instant impact which the Patriots need since their ageing linebacking core was actually the wink link on their defense last season.

The Patriots will be ale to tear through this weak division and once again take home the title. Division Title that is.

New York Jets: The Jets barely fall into this second spot, and it does not mean they will have a successful all around season. The Jets have questions at QB and they have a bunch of new faces on the offensive line. They are some very talented faces and a solid mix of veterans and young guys. The upside is if the line can gel together, the Jets can potentially make a stable offense, and that could be enough.

Two seasons ago the Jets began to put together a solid defense and while they backtracked a little last season, they will look to rebound in 08. Their defense is good enough to keep them in a lot of games this season, especially when you look around the rest of the division.

Buffalo Bills: The Bills could easily be a huge surprise in 2008, especially if Trent Edwards can completely grasp the system and the league. Last year Edwards burst onto the scene and he showed lot of promise and there is no doubt he will build and grow this season. If he can progress, the Bills have the weapons on offense to make some noise. Marshawn Lynch was a stud in the back field and he will only improve now that he has a better understanding of the blocking schemes and the tempo of the game. Lee Evans is a deep threat receiver who had a down year last season due to erratic play at the QB position. If Edwards can settle down and deliver the ball then Evans could feast from the improved play and have a breakout year.

Miami Dolphins: They went out and drafted the cheapest number one draft pick available. But Jake Long should be able to anchor the line for a long time to come. Too bad no one has a clue who will be under center. What the Dolphins do have going for them is Ronnie Brown. He is a tough runner who can get solid yardage on every carry. If Miami can keep him healthy during the season he will help to jump start what was a terrible (say it like Charles Barkley) offense last season.

The one thing Miami has going for them entering next season is the Big Tuna. That’s right Bill Parcells has taken over and he is already making his presence felt. Parcells put Jason Taylor on notice and he has the Dolphins on notice from front office to towel boy. If nothing else, Parcells running the show will insure that everyone puts their best foot forward. He will make the Dolphins raise their level of play unfortunately that level just wont be good enough.

Freshly Hungover "Linkin' Logs"

You might have missed me over the weekend (probably not). What I did manage to do was A) See Batman and B) Drink too much. The former was spectacular (I really can't say enough about how well down the film was or Heath Ledger's amazing performance) and the latter resulted in most of my day being spent in bed (oh how amazing a serious hangover is).

While attempting to sleep off this one I did happen to watch Padraig Harrington's pretty stunning performance in "The Open Championship." Needless to say, Greg Norman was the underdog yet hopeful leader and Harrington was the whimsical Irishman who did not relent on the back nine nailing two shots to really seal the deal. I'm not an avid golf watcher, but this event was very entertaining.

I also caught the beginning of the the F1 race on Sunday. Unfortunately the fireworks were on Saturday, when Danica Patrick, unable to pass Milka Duno during a practice round, confronted the fellow female racer. Normally, this would only be slightly entertaining than Nascar (i.e. not at all) but...well, I'll let the video speak for itself (Personally, I like the part where Duno throws a towel...twice!)

Well, enough banter, on to the links:

• Tom Haudricort of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal explains Ray Durham's experience of being traded from one side of the field to the other (seriously).
• And it all comes crashing down on Kerry Wood and the Cubs...again...for the 12th time...
• Good Ole Cholly send a message...
• Harold Baines is getting a Statue?!
• The only way the OKC franchise gets away with picking this lame of a nickname is by either getting Shaq or an incredibly fat woman as a mascot.
• Redskins rent Jason Taylor this year for the steep price of a 2nd rounder and a 6th in 2010.
• and the Eagles got their return man...signed
• If you haven't been keeping up, the situation between the NHL and the new Russian Continental Hockey league is a fascinating experience in international sports not seen in the US (more typical of soccer). The International Ice Hockey Federation is now stepping in as governing body between the NHL and the new Russian League.
• See, I told you those euro-trash soccer fans were pussies...we'll kick your ass, any day, any time
• And from AwfulAnnouncing, why do they keep giving this guy a job?!

Pinstripe Pulse: Yanks sign Sexson; Damon, Matsui experience rehab setbacks

The Yanks yesterday came to terms with the recently released Richie Sexson, formerly of the Seattle Mariners. Sexson, in his twelfth major league season, has seen his offense inexplicably disappear in the last year and a half. A lifetime .261 hitter with 305 homers and 937 RBI, Sexson has had five career thirty homer seasons, yet over his past 175 games has only hit 33, while hitting an anemic .211. So far this season, he has hit .211/11/30, with a woeful .178 average against righthanders. He has posted .344/5/12 numbers in 61 at-bats against lefty pitchers, the Yanks subsequently will platoon Sexson exclusively against southpaws. Sexson is a good fielding first baseman, he likely will see some late inning defensive assignments in place of Jason Giambi on days when he is not in the line-up.

Despite the pick-up, the Yankees are still in the market for a full time outfielder with a power bat, preferably from the right side. With Hideki Matsui likely out for the rest of the season, the Yanks will need to fill holes both offensively and defensively. ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kirkjian, during his weekly appearance with ESPNRadio affiliates, reported Brian Cashman and Pittsburgh Pirates GM Neal Huntington spend considerable time during this past weekend's Futures Game discussing a possible deal for, surprisingly, Jason Bay.

The Yanks had targeted Sexson as the righty first base option since his release last week, thus eliminating the need for Xavier Nady. While Cashman and Hank Steinbrenner are adamant they will not mortgage the future by trading off three or four prospects, Kirkjian reported Huntington to be open to a deal involving one or two prospects, a current member of the 25 man roster, and, in lieu of the extra prospect, cash.

The flux of the Yankees current roster is also up in the air. Johnny Damon is scheduled to be activated from the DL on Sunday, however, he cut short his hitting session on Tuesday due to discomfort in his injured left shoulder.

The situation with Hideki Matsui's injured left knee has taken an unfortunate turn for the worse, it appears he will have surgery and will be lost for the rest of the season. Matsui had been rehabbing the the Yankees Class A franchise in the Florida State League, he too cut short his rehab after a hitting stint on Tuesday resulted in pain and swelling. Matsui returned to New York on Wednesday and is scheduled to see Team Physician Dr. Stuart Hershon today, it is expected Dr. Hershon will recommend surgery.

Righthander Phil Hughes, on the DL since May with a broken rib on his rightside, threw his second bullpen session on Sunday in Tampa, cutting loose 25 fastballs and a dozen breaking balls, and reported no discomfort in the area. Because of the injury, Hughes was severely limited in his rehab option, not only will he need to regain arm strength, but leg strength and his stamina as well. The Yanks have put no ETA on Hughes' return to the rotation, the same can be said for Chien-Ming Wang. Wang, on the DL since June 17th with a torn tendon in his right foot, won't return until September at the earliest. The Yanks will need to activate Wang by August 31st for him to be eligible for possible postseason action, from that date he can have a maximum ten day rehab assignment, meaning he would have to be placed on the active roster no later than September 10th. The question is will he be strong enough to pitch by that date. The Yanks don't want to risk activating him too early, they also don't want to risk not activating him and losing him for October play if he needed another couple days of rehab.

Ian Kennedy was activated from the DL on June 28th, after missing five weeks with a back strain caused by bursitis in his throwing shoulder. Kennedy has made three rehab starts with Triple A Scranton-Wilkes Barre, going 0-2 with a 5.73 ERA in 11 innings, allowing 13 hits while striking out eleven.

Reliever Brian Bruney, on the shelf since May 4th with a broken foot, took the loss in his first rehab outing this past weekend while pitching in Double A Trenton. The Yankees also signed former top draft pick and Minnesota Twins ace Eric Milton to a minor league contract. Milton, out since June, '07 after Tommy John surgery, threw a 25 pitch bullpen last week and reported no stiffness or swelling.

Back to Baseball: "Linkin' Logs" (7/18/08)

Dear Francisco Cordero,

Try earning your 8 mil this year and close games.

Sincernely,

BNBlogger, JustinY

And that pretty much says it all. The hard charging Mets, winners of 10 straight, have tied the (sorta) idle Phils for first. New Yorkers are more annoying than ever (and not even Yankees fans) and this Phils fan broke a beer mug thanks to Fran's awful performance.

But all is not lost, as the Phillies (who I said were only semi-idle) went out and got workhorse pitcher Joe Blanton, who's been less than stellar this year, but still capable of pitching deep into games (which is the only thing a Phillies offense this potent needs). The Phils shipped three prospects to Oakland; Outfielder Matt Spencer, Pitcher Josh Outman and 2nd baseman Adrian Cardenas. I know little about Spencer, but Outman's been amongst the Phils best pitching prospects and Cardenas was among their best fielding prospects. That being said, the Phils really gave up little in their own plans, because Cardenas's position, as you know, is currently filled by NL MVP-hunter Chase Utley, and with a glove comparable to Utley, there was little reason to see Cardenas in the Phils plans for the future. In fact all, indications are that he was trade bait to from the moment he was drafted.

So how does Blanton help the Phils? Well, check out the700level.com's video from ESPN's baseball tonight...

Yes...he did say that...and Yes, the Phils are currently in first...but I also hope they can catch the Mets! Anyways, on to the links!

• Some more sad news regarding Johnny Mars
• So lost amongst some relatively smart moves was this little tidbit; the Yankees signed Richie Sexson. As one of my really good friends put it; "Sexson's like Giambi...only its when Giambi is slumping."
• Nice Headline
• Does no one want Ron Artest? He's so nice
• Sorry Clippers, but raiding the best team in the west (not to make the playoffs) will not make you a playoff contender...it'll get you 45 wins
• One of the best names in football (literally) will be riding the pine to start this season.
• Fantastic! Two top Eagles have fired their agents and are looking to use Satan...err...Drew Rosenhaus, to get what they want...I guess that's money and not championships
• Hey, Mike Vernon got a job!
• Hmm, the empire strikes back. Look, when the NHL says "Stop being a douche," they mean it
• Courtesy of AwfulAnnouncing, A gem from sports radio personality Chris Baker of Minnesota...
• And of course, thanks to Deadspin...another Vomit-fest from Mets fans...

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Walker-Sports NFC East Preview

Football season is right around the corner. The Washington Redskins report to camp this weekend, so that means we can start talking gridiron and I could not be happier. So as we begin our tour around the league, sorry it won’t be like our BCS tour, the logical place to begin is the NFC East since Walker-Sports does originate in Washington D.C. and the Skins are on their way to camp.

Dallas Cowboys: Yes this team fell short last year, yes their QB spends too much time in the tabloids with his idiot girlfriend, and yes they are everyone’s favorite team to hate. Despite all that, they are the best team in the NFC East 2008 season. The Cowboys bring back the bulk of a squad that went 13-3 last season. Julius Jones is gone which mean teams will see more of Marion Barber III which could be trouble for opposing defenses. Felix Jones was drafted to help take some of the workload off Barber and once he learns the pro game he will look to make an impact with his quick burst.

The buzz around the Cowboys this season will be generated around Adam Jones as he looks to return to Pro-Bowl status after a year suspension. Jones will help to sure up a shaky secondary that also features Roy Williams and Terrence Newman. Jones’s biggest impact will likely be seen on special teams where his skills are often over looked. But as long as he is able to make a solid contribution on defense then it could be the Cowboys defense that leads them to the post season success that has eluded the franchise for the last 12 years. The Cowboys have the best line backing core in the league and they will be able to put a lot of pressure on QB’s which will alleviate a lot of pressure on the secondary as they work to gel together.

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles had a rough season in 07. Once again injuries kept this team from getting on track. However, coming down the stretch they were as good as any team in the league. McNabb is back (somehow) and he has a lot to prove and he should come out with a chip on his shoulder. Lucky for Donavan he does not have to go it alone, he has arguably the best back in the league behind in Brian Westbrook. These two will once again link up to be one of the most dominate duos in the league.

On the defensive side of the ball the Eagles have what can be considered the best secondary in the league, which should give them plenty of liberty to blitz at will. So they will look to be aggressive once again.

I’m going go ahead and say it, it is now or never for the Eagles. This team has been together more or less since 2000 and although they went to one Super Bowl, that is not the results that a team of this caliber should have. If they miss the post season again then this team should be dismantled, anything short of a Super Bowl appearance and this team should make serious changes, and that means you Donovan.

New York Giants: Yes the Giants are the defending Super Bowl Champions and no one is happier than me that they knocked the Patriots off, that being said that was one of the best and biggest surprise runs in football history they went on to get there. And don’t worry they had plenty of luck along the way. The Giants lost some talent on the defensive line, and it was their D-Line that led the team to the championship. Those holes will not easily be replaced. More important than anything the Giants will have a huge target on their backs because they are the Super Bowl Champions and everyone will want a piece of them. Now just because they are third in the NFC East does not mean they won’t make the post season. Just being the defending champs, playing in the NFC East and having that horrible schedule will just be too much to overcome.

Washington Redskins: The Redskins got to keep their name a little while longer and tat was the only thing that went right for this team during the off-season. The Joe Gibbs era has come to an end as he makes his return to NASCAR and after a process that was very similar to selecting a Pope the Skins landed Jim Zorn, probably the must unlikely candidate on the market. So Zorn is in, but the question has to be asked; for how long? The burning question around the beltway is will Zorn e given a chance to coach, or is he just a placeholder till Cowher comes to town. The sooner that question is answered the faster we will be able to judge this Redskins team.

On offense the Skins will run Zorn’s version of the West Coast Offense which we can assume is similar to the Holmgren version but no one is sure since Zorn has never called a play. More importantly the change means QB Jason Campbell has to learn yet another system making it his fifth in about seven years. He has never played in anything close to the West Coast Offense and he will need to pick it up quickly if he wants to guide his team. Luckily for Washington they already have the personnel that are well suited to execute Zorn’s system. Small speed receivers Moss and Randle El will be able to work well with quick slants ins and outs. Chris Cooley is a great TE who will enjoy working in space and he should see plenty of work. Oddly enough the one weak link may be Clinton Portis. Clinton took a lot of strides last season and the West Coast Offense could be a great fit for him since the blocking will be similar to the one he enjoyed while in Denver. The downside is his hands can be sketchy and that’s not good since he could potentially see a lot more passes.