Monday, September 15, 2008
What A Weekend
4:39 AM | 
Posted by
Nick Mendola
A riddle: What do a pulled hammy, a Trojan horse, a Catholic prayer, a Hoosier tap dance and a Venezuelan history lesson have in common?
Your answer: My favorite sports weekend in recent memory. Let's walk through it together.
Saturday - Noon - Temple at Buffalo, UB Stadium
If there was a danger in my sports weekend, it was here. The UB Bulls have a pretty nice history against Temple. The Owls have been the victim of Turner Gill's first win (9-3 to open the season in 2006) and the Bulls eye-opening 42-7 throttling of Temple in Philadelphia last year.
The problem here is that the Owls are no longer a doormat, and sandwiched between road games at Pittsburgh and Missouri on the Bulls schedule. They also have a versatile quarterback in Adam DiMichele, and posed a serious threat to the Bulls' MAC title hopes during the teams' conference opener Saturday.
It went according to Temple's plan for the most part, but the Bulls rallied in the fourth quarter to take a 24-21 lead on a 25-yard field goal from A.J. Principe, the normally-reliable kicker who was anything but in the Bulls' 27-16 loss to Pitt last week. Pretty gutsy turn-around for a kid.
Yet on came the Owls, as DiMichele lead a thing of beauty in Amherst, finishing the drive with a punctuating 11-yard touchdown pass to put Temple up, 28-24 and on the road, with 38 seconds to play.
Ballgame? Hardly.
Senior quarterback Drew Willy heaved a final-second Hail Mary into the sky, and local hero Naaman Roosevelt grabbed that prayer like a St. Joe's boy should, tucking it away and falling into the end zone as the Bulls emerged victorious. The crowd went bananas, ESPN paid attention, and the Bulls have some fond memories heading into a Saturday afternoon showdown at Missouri, a team that hasn't scored under 50 points this year and is now ranked in the top five in the country.
To be honest, the Bulls needed almost holy help, and got it. I love my college football team, and you should go see them soon (Oct. 11 - Western Michigan, Oct. 18 - Army, Nov. 4 -Miami (Ohio), Nov. 28 - Kent State).
(Have you seen the game-winning TD yet? You can find it and vote it as the ESPN game-changing play of the week: http://promo.espn.go.com/espn/contests/pontiacgcp/?evar24=ponredirect)
Saturday - 8:05 p.m. - Ohio State at Southern Cal, the Memorial Coliseum
Oh, the plight of one Nick Mendola here. A lifelong Michigan supporter - even if the slimy Rich Rodriguez has me rethinking my allegiance - I hate Ohio State perhaps more than any other athletic team in the world. Unfortunately, I love the Big Ten. What could work out in my favor here?
Well, Jim Tressel could be embarassed on a national stage by a team that looks better than any other in the country save Oklahoma and Florida.
This wasn't about the Buckeyes' ineptitude, it was about complete and robotic destruction by a USC team that had me wondering how they'd fare against the St. Louis Rams. Linebacker Ray Maualuga is the best player in college football, and the Trojans defense keyed a 35-3 win. Get ready to hear his name from me in perpetuity -- he's my new Limas Sweed -- because the idea of Kawika Mitchell, Paul Posluszny and Ray Maualuga makes me want to cry tears of football joy.
That said, perhaps ol' Tressel learned his sweater-vested lesson. Don't keep your star running back in the third-quarter of a pounding against lowly Youngstown State, and try to look like an actual football team against the Ohio Bobcats before you take your "Top-five" program into USC. Yeah, there's some hate here, but the Trojans were machine-like, and I get to pretend that Penn State and Wisconsin would put up a better Big Ten fight for several weeks.
Saturday - 10 a.m. - CS Italia at Buffalo City Football Club, Ellicott Creek Park
Hey, it's my weekend, and I don't feel like talking about my Newcastle United FC circus over in England, so how about the first ever win for the Trumpets of Buffalo City FC. Ryan Edwards (Niagara Falls) headed in a Scott Lombardo (Sweet Home) corner kick, and we took down CS Italia, 1-0, in a super hard-fought home game in a mess of grass and mud. I left the game with one of the most painful injuries I've had in my life, and now totally understand why Howard Simon doesn't risk his hamstring. If any Bills player ever missed a game with a hamstring pull, I get it. You can still walk, but any quick movement whatsoever feels like your upper leg could disconnect from your knee.
It would take a whole lot of ice, heat, Icy Hot and compression shorts for me to play Sunday, and my wife said I wouldn't.
Sunday - 1 p.m. - Buffalo at Jacksonville, All-Tel Stadium
My "Immediate Reactions" piece for this week deals with this game in depth, but how fun will this week be knowing the Bills could be 3-0 for the first time in 16 years if they can manage to shut down Darren McFadden and Michael Bush (a taller task than you think). I feel like the Bills are in danger of doing what I'm doing -- salivating at the thought of the Bills defense against the Arizona Cardinals offense in a battle of 3-0 teams -- but who cares? This was a big win.
A quick thought for those who thought Marcus Stroud didn't have a good game because he didn't register a tackle: You're not watching football correctly. Three-point-one yards-per-carry for the Jags' running backs, and more disruption in the middle than you believe. Go ahead and rewatch this one on DVR, TiVo or whatever, the line had penetration, it just couldn't haul down David Garrard. All-in-all, a good part of a great weekend.
Sunday - 8:30 p.m. - Chicago Cubs vs. Houston Astros, Miller Park, Milwaukee
After "The Final Whistle" show that I host after Mike Schopp and The Bulldog's post-game rendezvous on our airwaves, I was stuck at the station for an extra 25 minutes because my car wouldn't start, a feat the ol' ZX2 would repeat at 4:45 this morning, thank you very much.
It was a blessing in disguise, because I was about to "hit the hay" before checking the Cubs' score one last time. It was the top of the eighth in Milwaukee, and my favorite pitcher, Carlos Zambrano, had a no-hitter in tact against the Astros, with only one walk to show for it.
I called the wife out. I texted many friends that "Big Z was having a very very good game" and that ESPN was about to switch over to the ninth inning on Sunday Night Baseball. Lacey had never seen a no-no, so we sat watching our beloved Cubs chase history. They did. We yelled... and went to bed. She's well-versed in the curse and told me it would be the best moment of the year for the Cubbies.
I didn't speak to her for several minutes.
And oh yeah, don't bring it up to her, but...
Sunday - 10 a.m. - Delaware Spallers at Buffalo City Football Club, Ellicott Creek Park
Yeah, after she waited on my bum hamstring and ankle day-and-night Saturday, I took a couple pain relievers, bathed in Icy Hot and stretched just enough to play in our Sunday game... and we won again. It was sweet to put two together, but two side notes made the day more memorable.
A) During the game, the entire net blew over their goalkeeper's head, and landed around him. This was only funny because he didn't die. The rest of the game was played with metal garbage cans holding the net up.
2) After the game, I met up with the keeper, who is listener/caller to my show (so he's the one). Jim had emailed me years back when I was talking about Mike Foligno being my favorite player of all-time, and he delivered big time. He had a game-used Foligno stick he had no use for, and gave it to me, signed by Uwe Krupp, Mike Ramsey and Darren Puppa, arguably the three greatest Sabres of all-time. Suffice it to say, I'm trading him a sweet piece of memorabilia that will remain nameless until he receives it after our next game... that is if we win, Jim.
For the record, Scott Lombardo again scored in our 1-0 win, pounding in a Scott Frauenhofer (Kenmore East. Go Bulldogs) rebound, and BCFC takes on Lake Shore FC at 10 a.m. next Saturday at Ellicott Creek Park. Go unofficially-nicknamed Trumpets!
Miscellaneous- Sunday night
I also received an email and subsequent phone call from a great guy I used to wait tables with at Big John's during college, and he's moved on to really solid things. He and his wonderful wife have a 2-year old son (Nicholas, absolutely no connection unless Jay's an idiot. I mean, really, I once dented the ceiling at the restaurant by playing catch with a 20-pound ham), and he's working with kids full-time. Not to get emotional, but when you find out good dudes are living the right way, that's the perfect cap to a good day.
What a weekend! God, I'll take another!
Email: nick@wgr550.com
P.S. Oh yeah... hockey starts soon.
Labels:
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Immediate Reactions: Buffalo 20, Jacksonville 16
I mean this in all honesty -- I've waited until after the game to type up my thoughts because a listener, Meredith, emailed me after last week and said the new "write as the game goes" philosophy wasn't working for her. She said it was because she was still learning the game, and my columns helped her last year.
See, one person can make a difference. Now go register to vote for someone you care about, and email: nick@wgr550.com after you read this.
Now, about the win...
-- I want to start with Fred Jackson. Credit Turk Schonert for calling his number on several short passes, or credit Trent Edwards for checking down to him, but the Bills don't win this football game without Jackson.
He was shifty, followed his blockers well, and really brought a tougher-running Roscoe Parrish ability to the open field. I love, love, love Marshawn Lynch, but even his style in the open field is more manageable than Jackson. With Lynch, you have to hang on for the ride and look out for the stiff arm. With Jackson, man, that guy is slick.
-- Trent Edwards had a solid, NFL quarterback day, another step in the right direction for the young quarterback. Just five incompletions go into his 20-25 for 239 yards and a score performance. The biggest thing to take away from his performance isn't even the completion to James Hardy for the game-winning score (For the record, most of the work was on Mr. Hardy's side). No, Edwards best moment was the 37-yard completion to Lee Evans, the only connection on the day over 16-yards that wasn't to Jackson.
Edwards showed incredible poise and presence in the pocket (alliteration, suckers), and threw a perfect ball to Evans, who crossed the entire field during his route. It was a moment where you know you're watching a good quarterback, something we've seen very little in the past few years.
-- What can I say about "All-World" tackle Jason Peters, who was flat-out embarassed by Quentin Groves on a sack that turned the ball over to Reggie Hayward and the Jaguars. I'm not going to fool around with terms like "game shape," but the Peters we know is quick enough to get off the block on that play, and take care of his man. I'd bet more practice would help.
-- We've gone all offense so far, which is a little bit of a shame, because there's a lot good and bad to talk about with the defense. For one, David Garrard is apparently covered in butter, or something slippery that isn't delicious, because the hungry big men on the line for the Bills had some issues tackling the Jacksonville quarterback.
Outside of that, the Bills did everything they were supposed to against a beat-up Jaguars offensive line. It didn't always look so hot in the game, but Jacksonville's ho-hum 3.6 yards-per-carry was much lower on actual running plays. Garrard averaged 5.3 per play, so credit the Bills defense to holding running backs Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor to 66 yards on 21 carries, or Pi-per-carry (that.s 3.14, friends).
-- With all due respect to Devin Hester, when does Roscoe Parrish get his love in the media? I'm thinking a commercial with a bunch of dogs chasing him around a town park or something.
-- At some point this week, I'll have an article on Ashton Youboty, who's been a massive surprise at corner. Youboty got a terribly slow start with the Bills after his mother passed away, and he had to head home to take care of his family, but he seems to be back on track after an exemplary preseason, and a solid couple of games to start the regular season. Sure, he appears to weigh 11 pounds soaking wet, but 9 tackles and a sack through two games is solid for someone I thought was as sure as cut.
-- I don't even blink when Rian Lindell lines up to kick a field goal. What a change from a couple years ago.
-- Hardy's game-winning touchdown catch was the stuff of perfection. Now, there are some folks who will tell you it was "no question" a touchdown, but what they should say is that there's no way they could've reversed it. He lands with what appears to be both feet in-bounds, but the white tape on the front of his shoes makes it nearly impossible to flip the call. What an athletic grab, and good to see that Edwards has the guts to chuck that ball up for grabs.
-- I can't say enough about the coaching, even if it can be just classified as "well-above average." It's nice to see a team not throw up on itself.
Stat line I enjoyed:
--Edwards, 20-25, 239 yards, 1 TD, 3 sacks
This was almost exactly his 17-14 win over the Jets last year, but better, because he didn't throw the crucial interception. Look at that game (22-28, 234 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, two sacks). Plus, 6-of-11 on third down is a vast improvement on last week.
Stat line I didn't enjoy:
--Four penalties for 40 yards.
Might not seem like a lot, but they came at some inopportune times (As if penalties come at opportune times. Nice, Nick. Pure genius).
Game ball:
-- Jackson, 7 catches, 83 yards; 6 carries, 17 yards.
He was the x-factor in my book, the variable that the Jaguars didn't look prepared for. Bonus points for Lynch continued to run behind a line that has some issues pushing the defense (which is a huge concern if you're already thinking playoffs. Lynch is a good enough runner. Not sure about his line).
Lastly...
I'll take it, even if the tackling was a little infuriating, and most of the game was underwhelming. Let's face it, Edwards style is a little bit of the station-to-station baseball of American football. I'll take it, but I feel like you'll know the Bills played their game when you're smiling with a win, and without angina.
Next week:
Oakland's defense, as well as Darren McFadden, will be a much bigger test than many think, but look for Buffalo to take care of business at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Let's call it... Buffalo 23, Oakland 14. Two big runs for McFadden, and a bunch of field goals for Lindell.
There you go, Meredith. Hope that was better!
Think I'm wrong? I'm used to it. Let's type about it: nick@wgr550.com
See, one person can make a difference. Now go register to vote for someone you care about, and email: nick@wgr550.com after you read this.
Now, about the win...
-- I want to start with Fred Jackson. Credit Turk Schonert for calling his number on several short passes, or credit Trent Edwards for checking down to him, but the Bills don't win this football game without Jackson.
He was shifty, followed his blockers well, and really brought a tougher-running Roscoe Parrish ability to the open field. I love, love, love Marshawn Lynch, but even his style in the open field is more manageable than Jackson. With Lynch, you have to hang on for the ride and look out for the stiff arm. With Jackson, man, that guy is slick.
-- Trent Edwards had a solid, NFL quarterback day, another step in the right direction for the young quarterback. Just five incompletions go into his 20-25 for 239 yards and a score performance. The biggest thing to take away from his performance isn't even the completion to James Hardy for the game-winning score (For the record, most of the work was on Mr. Hardy's side). No, Edwards best moment was the 37-yard completion to Lee Evans, the only connection on the day over 16-yards that wasn't to Jackson.
Edwards showed incredible poise and presence in the pocket (alliteration, suckers), and threw a perfect ball to Evans, who crossed the entire field during his route. It was a moment where you know you're watching a good quarterback, something we've seen very little in the past few years.
-- What can I say about "All-World" tackle Jason Peters, who was flat-out embarassed by Quentin Groves on a sack that turned the ball over to Reggie Hayward and the Jaguars. I'm not going to fool around with terms like "game shape," but the Peters we know is quick enough to get off the block on that play, and take care of his man. I'd bet more practice would help.
-- We've gone all offense so far, which is a little bit of a shame, because there's a lot good and bad to talk about with the defense. For one, David Garrard is apparently covered in butter, or something slippery that isn't delicious, because the hungry big men on the line for the Bills had some issues tackling the Jacksonville quarterback.
Outside of that, the Bills did everything they were supposed to against a beat-up Jaguars offensive line. It didn't always look so hot in the game, but Jacksonville's ho-hum 3.6 yards-per-carry was much lower on actual running plays. Garrard averaged 5.3 per play, so credit the Bills defense to holding running backs Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor to 66 yards on 21 carries, or Pi-per-carry (that.s 3.14, friends).
-- With all due respect to Devin Hester, when does Roscoe Parrish get his love in the media? I'm thinking a commercial with a bunch of dogs chasing him around a town park or something.
-- At some point this week, I'll have an article on Ashton Youboty, who's been a massive surprise at corner. Youboty got a terribly slow start with the Bills after his mother passed away, and he had to head home to take care of his family, but he seems to be back on track after an exemplary preseason, and a solid couple of games to start the regular season. Sure, he appears to weigh 11 pounds soaking wet, but 9 tackles and a sack through two games is solid for someone I thought was as sure as cut.
-- I don't even blink when Rian Lindell lines up to kick a field goal. What a change from a couple years ago.
-- Hardy's game-winning touchdown catch was the stuff of perfection. Now, there are some folks who will tell you it was "no question" a touchdown, but what they should say is that there's no way they could've reversed it. He lands with what appears to be both feet in-bounds, but the white tape on the front of his shoes makes it nearly impossible to flip the call. What an athletic grab, and good to see that Edwards has the guts to chuck that ball up for grabs.
-- I can't say enough about the coaching, even if it can be just classified as "well-above average." It's nice to see a team not throw up on itself.
Stat line I enjoyed:
--Edwards, 20-25, 239 yards, 1 TD, 3 sacks
This was almost exactly his 17-14 win over the Jets last year, but better, because he didn't throw the crucial interception. Look at that game (22-28, 234 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, two sacks). Plus, 6-of-11 on third down is a vast improvement on last week.
Stat line I didn't enjoy:
--Four penalties for 40 yards.
Might not seem like a lot, but they came at some inopportune times (As if penalties come at opportune times. Nice, Nick. Pure genius).
Game ball:
-- Jackson, 7 catches, 83 yards; 6 carries, 17 yards.
He was the x-factor in my book, the variable that the Jaguars didn't look prepared for. Bonus points for Lynch continued to run behind a line that has some issues pushing the defense (which is a huge concern if you're already thinking playoffs. Lynch is a good enough runner. Not sure about his line).
Lastly...
I'll take it, even if the tackling was a little infuriating, and most of the game was underwhelming. Let's face it, Edwards style is a little bit of the station-to-station baseball of American football. I'll take it, but I feel like you'll know the Bills played their game when you're smiling with a win, and without angina.
Next week:
Oakland's defense, as well as Darren McFadden, will be a much bigger test than many think, but look for Buffalo to take care of business at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Let's call it... Buffalo 23, Oakland 14. Two big runs for McFadden, and a bunch of field goals for Lindell.
There you go, Meredith. Hope that was better!
Think I'm wrong? I'm used to it. Let's type about it: nick@wgr550.com
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Brady's injury and its repercussions
"It'll be a great Monday and a fun week to be a Bills fan, especially if Brady's knee exploded,"
--Me, two hours ago
That statement, uttered in my "Immediate Reactions" column mere hours ago, was tongue-in-cheek, but now I've bit my tongue clear off (which will make it very difficult to host a talk show, so stay tuned).
But let's really think about this, supposing of course that Michael Silver's Yahoo! Sports report is true. The Pats will be looking at Matt Cassel, Matt Guttierez and who? Vinny Testaverde? Daunte Culpepper? Will they trade for a Billy Volek, Sage Rosenfels or Rex Grossman?
The fun part is they'll probably sign Testaverde, and we can watch as Bill Belichick plays the role of stubborn genius, fumbling his way through a 9-or-10-win season with an aggressive defense and Cassel under center (Tell me he doesn't consider it a challenge to win with inexperienced would-be third-stringers).
Of course, this development is beautiful for Buffalo, and people will say it's the opposite of classy to be happy about this, like the division championship wouldn't count if the Bills were edging out a broken down Pats team to go along with the Jets and Dolphins. The truth is, and take a deep breath here, the Bills will be in focus on all the NFL shows nationwide as the country comes to term with Brady's knee and Buffalo's 34-10 win over Seattle.
Now, there's a pretty good chance Brady will reconstruct his own knee with the help of Tedy Bruschi, overcoming the injury to throw even more touchdowns in a 16-0 season, but could things have worked out more in the Bills favor in Week One:
--Big win over a playoff team in Seattle (albeit an injured one)
--Dallas opens up seemingly every hole in Cleveland's game
--The Chargers fall to Carolina (even if everyone has San Diego taking that division anyway)
--Jacksonville falls to Tennessee
If Denver falls to Oakland, oh, happy day.
Now, the Jags falling to the Titans could be bad for a couple reasons. One, it may wake up Jacksonville, whose pre-season hype may have gone to their heads, and two, Tennessee may be way better than most have thought. Let's face it, Jeff Fisher is in the Mike Shanahan and Mike Holmgren class of making something out of nothing.
In reality, the Pats will still be good, and it's only one game, but isn't it fun to get a little carried away? (Especially considering that it may end up not qualifying as getting carried away).
Forgive me for smiling, but it's been a good Sunday.
Email: nick@wgr550.com
--Me, two hours ago
That statement, uttered in my "Immediate Reactions" column mere hours ago, was tongue-in-cheek, but now I've bit my tongue clear off (which will make it very difficult to host a talk show, so stay tuned).
But let's really think about this, supposing of course that Michael Silver's Yahoo! Sports report is true. The Pats will be looking at Matt Cassel, Matt Guttierez and who? Vinny Testaverde? Daunte Culpepper? Will they trade for a Billy Volek, Sage Rosenfels or Rex Grossman?
The fun part is they'll probably sign Testaverde, and we can watch as Bill Belichick plays the role of stubborn genius, fumbling his way through a 9-or-10-win season with an aggressive defense and Cassel under center (Tell me he doesn't consider it a challenge to win with inexperienced would-be third-stringers).
Of course, this development is beautiful for Buffalo, and people will say it's the opposite of classy to be happy about this, like the division championship wouldn't count if the Bills were edging out a broken down Pats team to go along with the Jets and Dolphins. The truth is, and take a deep breath here, the Bills will be in focus on all the NFL shows nationwide as the country comes to term with Brady's knee and Buffalo's 34-10 win over Seattle.
Now, there's a pretty good chance Brady will reconstruct his own knee with the help of Tedy Bruschi, overcoming the injury to throw even more touchdowns in a 16-0 season, but could things have worked out more in the Bills favor in Week One:
--Big win over a playoff team in Seattle (albeit an injured one)
--Dallas opens up seemingly every hole in Cleveland's game
--The Chargers fall to Carolina (even if everyone has San Diego taking that division anyway)
--Jacksonville falls to Tennessee
If Denver falls to Oakland, oh, happy day.
Now, the Jags falling to the Titans could be bad for a couple reasons. One, it may wake up Jacksonville, whose pre-season hype may have gone to their heads, and two, Tennessee may be way better than most have thought. Let's face it, Jeff Fisher is in the Mike Shanahan and Mike Holmgren class of making something out of nothing.
In reality, the Pats will still be good, and it's only one game, but isn't it fun to get a little carried away? (Especially considering that it may end up not qualifying as getting carried away).
Forgive me for smiling, but it's been a good Sunday.
Email: nick@wgr550.com
Immediate Reactions: Buffalo 34, Seattle 10
This year, or at least this week, for my "Immediate Reactions," I'm going to make it more of a running blog that I publish at the end of the game, which means I'm done faster, and then you're reading it faster. Should work better for all of us, except for the fact that I won't be contemplating my feelings more, leading to more negative emails. Fun! Also, make sure to tune in for The Final Whistle with me at 6:30 p.m. tonight in WGR Sports Radio 550.
— A resounding win with a standing ovation on opening day? Don't post-pone your annual January vacation yet or anything, but your favorite team just shut down a well-coached team that's been to the playoffs five-consecutive years. Yes, they were missing some folks, but missing some folks doesn't add up to a blow-out. Nice work, defense, special teams and yes, even you offense. Let's go to Florida.
—Marshawn Lynch 21-yard touchdown run. To the left side, to boot. My brother's out with the Bills Backers of Rhode Island during his first weekend of college, and his text message was, "BEAST MODE." Apparently, they go to a Patriots bar, and the waitress leaves their food at the top of the stairs because she isn't interested in serving Bills' fans. Can't wait for our road trip to Gillette Stadium.
— Good to see Melvin Fowler up to his old antics on the first 3rd-and-1 of the year. Nice blocking as he gets blown up by a defensive tackle the league's barely heard of in Brandon Mebane. Hey, forget it, he's a 2007 third round pick who racked up 29 whole tackles last year. All-Pro, Mel! I smell a Funtime Billsland.
— John McCargo, inactive? Are Tim Graham's trade rumblings true? If so, how many disgruntled linebackers are out there? I personally hope not, because I'm a pretty big McCargo supporter.
— Don't tell anybody, but this first half is kind of boring.
— For those who of you who tuned into the font of football knowledge that was Sportstalk Saturday, you heard me say that both Baltimore and Atlanta won't be as bad as you think. Well, what's happening now? Joe Flacco, 4-for-7, 33 yards first quarter and 21-0 Michael Turner and company over everybody's darling, Detroit. I love over-emphasing the first quarter of the first game of a long season.
— Back in the preseason I did a show about how it felt a little different rooting for Lynch after his traffic infraction. No issue now. None whatsoever. He's still my favorite Bills player in years, just running so hard all the time, and it seems like defenders have to work extra hard to tackle him, which must wear them down faster.
— By the way, just seven minutes into the first quarter and we had our first satellite breakdown at the Bills party. We missed a three and-out. Shocking.
— Tom Brady was just injured by a helmet-to-knee hit, a la J.P. Losman versus Vince Wolfork's. Payback's no fun for you, huh?
— End of first half recap: Get out of bounds, Robert Royal. An eight-year old knows that. It looks like he had to think about it a second time, too. (Edit note: Edwards really utilized the tight end well today, and Bobby scored as well).
— The Bills defensive line looks very good against an above average Seattle offensive line that features Walter Jones and Mike Wahle. This is a very, very good sign for this season, and here's hoping Marcus Stroud is reading the "Jags will be better without him" articles.
— Quick, pick up Ryan Denney, wide receiver in your fantasy league. A+ for Bobby April. Can't wait to hear the critics call that play a waste. Ah, football season!
— Marcus Stroud is a large, large man.
— Funny how the NFL works: Roscoe Parrish's punt return touchdown made me totally forget about his DUI. Legitimately one of the most exciting players in Bills' history, and it was a lot of fun hearing the announcers reference the a block from Jon Corto, a hometown boy.
— Doesn't it seem like New Orleans' Devery Henderson always has a good first week or two?
— If I was a pessimist, and I was watching the first quarter of this game, I'd be asking if Trent Edwards is loving good weather at the Ralph, you know, like he did last year? Turns out his rust lasted approximately ten minutes. Luckily, I'm not a pessimist, but it's going to be fun listening to the Whiner Line tomorrow morning. And by fun, I mean like the Hong Kong Flu.
— Who else is totally down with Turk Schonert going for the throat? Coming into this year, you might've had a bunch of players wondering what Dick Jauron was up to in terms of being aggressive. They probably aren't now. Pretty good sign.
Stat line I enjoyed:
Lee Evans, four catches, 120 yards
-Just think: If he liked Trent Edwards, he could've had eight catches for 240 yards. Horrible teammate, that Evans.
Stat line I didn't enjoy:
Bills offense, 4-for-16 on third down.
-It's nitpicky, but third down efficiency was an issue for most of last year, and it will need to be better than 25 percent to win most weeks.
Game ball:
Marcus Stroud, 1/2 sack, five tackles, pass defended
-It was either him or Paul Posluszny, and Poz was around for at least some of last year. Big Marcus was a difference maker today. Who knew you needed a big defensive tackle in this league? Oh yeah. Everyone did.
Lastly...
That was a lot of fun. Parrish setting a Bills record for punt return yards with 120. Denney with a sack and a receiving touchdown. Some huge hits, including one from former poor tackler Ko Simpson. John Wendling making like Steve Tasker for a moment late in the game. We'll take it all except the blocked field goal. It'll be a great Monday and a fun week to be a Bills fan, especially if Brady's knee exploded.
Next week:
Stroud's homecoming, and a Jaguars team who won't be too happy after a season-opening loss against the Titans. Call me naive, but even with Edwards on the road facing a much better defense and the Bills defense facing a much better running game, I'll pick Buffalo 16, Jacksonville 13. Yep, it'll be that exciting, too.
Email: nick@wgr550.com
— A resounding win with a standing ovation on opening day? Don't post-pone your annual January vacation yet or anything, but your favorite team just shut down a well-coached team that's been to the playoffs five-consecutive years. Yes, they were missing some folks, but missing some folks doesn't add up to a blow-out. Nice work, defense, special teams and yes, even you offense. Let's go to Florida.
—Marshawn Lynch 21-yard touchdown run. To the left side, to boot. My brother's out with the Bills Backers of Rhode Island during his first weekend of college, and his text message was, "BEAST MODE." Apparently, they go to a Patriots bar, and the waitress leaves their food at the top of the stairs because she isn't interested in serving Bills' fans. Can't wait for our road trip to Gillette Stadium.
— Good to see Melvin Fowler up to his old antics on the first 3rd-and-1 of the year. Nice blocking as he gets blown up by a defensive tackle the league's barely heard of in Brandon Mebane. Hey, forget it, he's a 2007 third round pick who racked up 29 whole tackles last year. All-Pro, Mel! I smell a Funtime Billsland.
— John McCargo, inactive? Are Tim Graham's trade rumblings true? If so, how many disgruntled linebackers are out there? I personally hope not, because I'm a pretty big McCargo supporter.
— Don't tell anybody, but this first half is kind of boring.
— For those who of you who tuned into the font of football knowledge that was Sportstalk Saturday, you heard me say that both Baltimore and Atlanta won't be as bad as you think. Well, what's happening now? Joe Flacco, 4-for-7, 33 yards first quarter and 21-0 Michael Turner and company over everybody's darling, Detroit. I love over-emphasing the first quarter of the first game of a long season.
— Back in the preseason I did a show about how it felt a little different rooting for Lynch after his traffic infraction. No issue now. None whatsoever. He's still my favorite Bills player in years, just running so hard all the time, and it seems like defenders have to work extra hard to tackle him, which must wear them down faster.
— By the way, just seven minutes into the first quarter and we had our first satellite breakdown at the Bills party. We missed a three and-out. Shocking.
— Tom Brady was just injured by a helmet-to-knee hit, a la J.P. Losman versus Vince Wolfork's. Payback's no fun for you, huh?
— End of first half recap: Get out of bounds, Robert Royal. An eight-year old knows that. It looks like he had to think about it a second time, too. (Edit note: Edwards really utilized the tight end well today, and Bobby scored as well).
— The Bills defensive line looks very good against an above average Seattle offensive line that features Walter Jones and Mike Wahle. This is a very, very good sign for this season, and here's hoping Marcus Stroud is reading the "Jags will be better without him" articles.
— Quick, pick up Ryan Denney, wide receiver in your fantasy league. A+ for Bobby April. Can't wait to hear the critics call that play a waste. Ah, football season!
— Marcus Stroud is a large, large man.
— Funny how the NFL works: Roscoe Parrish's punt return touchdown made me totally forget about his DUI. Legitimately one of the most exciting players in Bills' history, and it was a lot of fun hearing the announcers reference the a block from Jon Corto, a hometown boy.
— Doesn't it seem like New Orleans' Devery Henderson always has a good first week or two?
— If I was a pessimist, and I was watching the first quarter of this game, I'd be asking if Trent Edwards is loving good weather at the Ralph, you know, like he did last year? Turns out his rust lasted approximately ten minutes. Luckily, I'm not a pessimist, but it's going to be fun listening to the Whiner Line tomorrow morning. And by fun, I mean like the Hong Kong Flu.
— Who else is totally down with Turk Schonert going for the throat? Coming into this year, you might've had a bunch of players wondering what Dick Jauron was up to in terms of being aggressive. They probably aren't now. Pretty good sign.
Stat line I enjoyed:
Lee Evans, four catches, 120 yards
-Just think: If he liked Trent Edwards, he could've had eight catches for 240 yards. Horrible teammate, that Evans.
Stat line I didn't enjoy:
Bills offense, 4-for-16 on third down.
-It's nitpicky, but third down efficiency was an issue for most of last year, and it will need to be better than 25 percent to win most weeks.
Game ball:
Marcus Stroud, 1/2 sack, five tackles, pass defended
-It was either him or Paul Posluszny, and Poz was around for at least some of last year. Big Marcus was a difference maker today. Who knew you needed a big defensive tackle in this league? Oh yeah. Everyone did.
Lastly...
That was a lot of fun. Parrish setting a Bills record for punt return yards with 120. Denney with a sack and a receiving touchdown. Some huge hits, including one from former poor tackler Ko Simpson. John Wendling making like Steve Tasker for a moment late in the game. We'll take it all except the blocked field goal. It'll be a great Monday and a fun week to be a Bills fan, especially if Brady's knee exploded.
Next week:
Stroud's homecoming, and a Jaguars team who won't be too happy after a season-opening loss against the Titans. Call me naive, but even with Edwards on the road facing a much better defense and the Bills defense facing a much better running game, I'll pick Buffalo 16, Jacksonville 13. Yep, it'll be that exciting, too.
Email: nick@wgr550.com
Monday, September 1, 2008
Sportstalk Saturday's NFL Playoff Picks
If you missed this week's Sportstalk Saturday, you missed Nick Mendola and Pat Malacaro's playoff picks. Prompted by a caller to the show, the two delivered the names, and now they back up their picks:
NFC East
Nick- Washington- Call it absurd, but I'm playing a hunch here. I really like Jason Campbell's chances of blossoming with Chris Cooley, Santana Moss, Devin Thomas and Antwaan Randle-El. I'll have to bet that Clinton Portis will have a resurgence, and that their defensive tackle injuries don't hurt them, but I like the 'Skins to have a tremendous year in a very difficult division.
Pat- Dallas- The ‘Boys may have the best offense in the NFL with Tony Romo under center, Marion Barber carrying the ball out of the backfield, and wide outs T.O. and Patrick Crayton running smooth routes. Head coach Wade Phillips is a defensive minded coach, so don’t expect Dallas to do much worse than the 9th place finish in YPG given up last season.
NFC North
Pat- Minnesota– Two letters: A.P. Add WR Bernard Berrian into the receiver mix, and the only question mark on offense is QB Tarvaris Jackson. The Vikings do have Gus Frerotte is a older in sports standards, but still can step in if Jackson does not get the job done. On defense Pat Williams sits in the middle of the d-line that gave up the fewest rushing yards per game last season.
Nick- Green Bay- I like Aaron Rodgers to be good enough to get the Packers of the North, and Ryan Grant and A.J. Hawk really impressed me last year. Look for the Packers corners to have a big year.
NFC West
Nick- Seattle- I consider Matt Hasselbeck to be the NFL's barometer for quarterbacks. You need a guy at least as good as Hasselbeck to make a Super Bowl run, and this year he's got a nice stable of running backs, including Julius Jones, a back that I was surprised to see fall out of favor in Dallas, though Marion Barber III is pretty good.
Pat- Seattle – Much like Nick, I too feel that Matt Hasselbeck is just good enough to be a top level QB in the NFL, but not quite athletic enough to be on the elite level of some of the greats that have played. The addition of Julius Jones to the running game is an improvement over the Shaun Alexander we saw the last few seasons. The NFC West is not as awful as most think, but the Seahawks did dominate their division opponents 5-1 last year.
NFC South
Pat- Tampa Bay– The emergence of RB Ernest Graham was a pleasant surprise when Cadillac Williams went down for the season last year. QB Jeff Garcia is certainly a better option than Luke McCown and the recently released Chris Simms. The Bucks have an aging defense, but still has gotten the job done consistently year after year. They had the best pass defense, and second best total defense last season.
Nick- Tampa Bay- The Bucs still have a good defense, and Jeff Garcia is still solid. I wish I had more to say about Tampa. No, actually, I don't. Enjoy the malaise.
NFC Wild Cards
Nick- Philadelphia and Dallas- Are the Eagles and Cowboys good enough to overcome playing six games in division? Absolutely. It's terrible that folks continue to underrate Donovan McNabb, who is one of the best signal callers of his era, and even Jessica Simpson won't derail Dallas (For the record, Tony Romo, I can't see how Carrie Underwood wasn't good enough. I wouldn't say you upgraded. What a world we live in where this analysis happens).
Pat- Carolina and Washington – My sleeper of the year is Carolina RB Jonathan Stewart. John Fox is still one of the top game day coaches in the NFL, their defense was middle of the road last year when the offense could not stay on the field. For the 'Skins, Expect bigger things out of QB Jason Campbell this season. In 13 starts last year Campbell threw 12 TDs, but had 11 INTs. The Redskins rush defense was in the top 5 last year, expect it to stay near the top.
AFC East
Nick- New England- The Pats will lose a handful of games in 2008, a year which will definitely be a drop-off from their record-shattering 2007 campaign, but Jerrod Mayo was the right pick at the right position, and should help re-energize their linebackers. Their d-line is still solid, and will help minimize the loss of Asante Samuel. Look for Randy Moss' numbers to drop, and Laurence Maroney's to rise.
Pat- New England- Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Laurence Maroney. Need I say more? The defense will take a hit with the loss of Asante Samuel, but they still have one a top three offense in the NFL. I am going to go out on a limb and say the Pats will go at least 4-2 against the rest of the AFC East, meaning they will only need to go 8-2 or 7-3 to finish atop the AFC.
AFC North
Pat- Pittsburgh- The home playoff loss to the Jaguars in the Wild Card round last year left a lot to be desired by the Steelers. On the offensive side of the ball, Big Ben will have another solid year throwing the ball to Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward. Add in first rounder Rashard Mendenhall and you have a solid 1-2 running back punch with Willie Parker. The Steelers’ had the best overall defense last season, giving up the fewest total yards per game on average, and were tied for second in touchdowns given up (31).
Nick- Pittsburgh- I have some questions about the defense, but I love Lamarr Woodley in the linebacking corps. I love Roethlisberger, and see Holmes having a big year, and don't think this is the year Ward drops off. Parker's injuries aren't as much of a concern with Mendenhall as a safety valve. Pittsburgh's my favorite to dethrone the Pats in the AFC.
AFC West
Nick- San Diego- As much as I think Shawne Merriman is one of the dumbest men on Earth for falling into the giant machismo trap that is "NFL toughness," the Chargers will be better than ever in 2008, which isn't saying all that much. With all due respect to Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates remains a one-of-a-kind threat until Vernon Davis really shows the league something.
Pat- San Diego– The Chargers’ defense will most certainly take a hit with a less than 100% Shawne Merriman. However, with Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie on the corners and a solid return game, the defense will still be near the top in the AFC. Expect QB Philip Rivers to have a solid year with WRs Chris Chambers and Vincent Jackson, TE Antonio Gates, and, oh yeah, Ladanian Tomlinson coming out of the backfield.
AFC South
Pat- Indianapolis- The Colts are a very balanced squad on offense and defense. Wide outs Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison and Anthony Gonzalez show a great potential for Manning to 35 TDs this season. Add in a potent running game with Joseph Addai and there is no reason to expect the Colts’ offense to fall out of the top 5 from last season. The two anchors on the defensive side of the ball look in peak for. Defensive End Dwight Freeney should have a big year in the trenches, and SS Bob Sanders should continue to lead by example in the secondary.
Nick- Indianapolis- Even if Marvin Harrison falls further away from his legendary statistics this year, the Colts have more than enough fire power to get them through what is a very favorable schedule. If Peyton Manning's bursa sac issues are more than we know, than Jacksonville will thrive, but the Colts should only lose a handful of games.
AFC Wild Cards
Nick- Jacksonville and Denver- I hate doing this, Bills fans -- and my goodness, do I hope I'm wrong -- but the Jags have a very good schedule, and Denver scares me. Mike Shanahan knows how to coach, and the Champ Bailey/Dre Bly combo should prove more stout than last year. I'm not as big a fan of their wide-outs as Pat (see below), but Jay Cutler has finally won me over. Turns out it wasn't just "Kiperhype."
Pat- Denver and Jacksonville- I expect QB Jay Cutler to have a solid year with Brandon Marshall and Keary Colbert to throw to. Head coach Mike Shanahan is a magic man when it comes to his offensive line and the running game, expect RB Selvin Young to continue the trend. The Jags have maybe the best 1-2 running back punch with Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor (assuming Taylor isn't headed to jail). Jacksonville had the 12th best overall defense last year, allowing 313.8 ypg last season. There should not be much of a drop off, despite the loss of Marcus Stroud on the d-line in the off-season.
Pat's conference championship and Super Bowl picks
AFC- Pats over Colts
NFC- Cowboys over Panthers
Super Bowl- Pats over Cowboys
Nick's conference championship and Super Bowl picks
AFC- Steelers over Colts
NFC- Redskins over Cowboys
Super Bowl- Steelers over Redskins
Email: nick@wgr550.com
NFC East
Nick- Washington- Call it absurd, but I'm playing a hunch here. I really like Jason Campbell's chances of blossoming with Chris Cooley, Santana Moss, Devin Thomas and Antwaan Randle-El. I'll have to bet that Clinton Portis will have a resurgence, and that their defensive tackle injuries don't hurt them, but I like the 'Skins to have a tremendous year in a very difficult division.
Pat- Dallas- The ‘Boys may have the best offense in the NFL with Tony Romo under center, Marion Barber carrying the ball out of the backfield, and wide outs T.O. and Patrick Crayton running smooth routes. Head coach Wade Phillips is a defensive minded coach, so don’t expect Dallas to do much worse than the 9th place finish in YPG given up last season.
NFC North
Pat- Minnesota– Two letters: A.P. Add WR Bernard Berrian into the receiver mix, and the only question mark on offense is QB Tarvaris Jackson. The Vikings do have Gus Frerotte is a older in sports standards, but still can step in if Jackson does not get the job done. On defense Pat Williams sits in the middle of the d-line that gave up the fewest rushing yards per game last season.
Nick- Green Bay- I like Aaron Rodgers to be good enough to get the Packers of the North, and Ryan Grant and A.J. Hawk really impressed me last year. Look for the Packers corners to have a big year.
NFC West
Nick- Seattle- I consider Matt Hasselbeck to be the NFL's barometer for quarterbacks. You need a guy at least as good as Hasselbeck to make a Super Bowl run, and this year he's got a nice stable of running backs, including Julius Jones, a back that I was surprised to see fall out of favor in Dallas, though Marion Barber III is pretty good.
Pat- Seattle – Much like Nick, I too feel that Matt Hasselbeck is just good enough to be a top level QB in the NFL, but not quite athletic enough to be on the elite level of some of the greats that have played. The addition of Julius Jones to the running game is an improvement over the Shaun Alexander we saw the last few seasons. The NFC West is not as awful as most think, but the Seahawks did dominate their division opponents 5-1 last year.
NFC South
Pat- Tampa Bay– The emergence of RB Ernest Graham was a pleasant surprise when Cadillac Williams went down for the season last year. QB Jeff Garcia is certainly a better option than Luke McCown and the recently released Chris Simms. The Bucks have an aging defense, but still has gotten the job done consistently year after year. They had the best pass defense, and second best total defense last season.
Nick- Tampa Bay- The Bucs still have a good defense, and Jeff Garcia is still solid. I wish I had more to say about Tampa. No, actually, I don't. Enjoy the malaise.
NFC Wild Cards
Nick- Philadelphia and Dallas- Are the Eagles and Cowboys good enough to overcome playing six games in division? Absolutely. It's terrible that folks continue to underrate Donovan McNabb, who is one of the best signal callers of his era, and even Jessica Simpson won't derail Dallas (For the record, Tony Romo, I can't see how Carrie Underwood wasn't good enough. I wouldn't say you upgraded. What a world we live in where this analysis happens).
Pat- Carolina and Washington – My sleeper of the year is Carolina RB Jonathan Stewart. John Fox is still one of the top game day coaches in the NFL, their defense was middle of the road last year when the offense could not stay on the field. For the 'Skins, Expect bigger things out of QB Jason Campbell this season. In 13 starts last year Campbell threw 12 TDs, but had 11 INTs. The Redskins rush defense was in the top 5 last year, expect it to stay near the top.
AFC East
Nick- New England- The Pats will lose a handful of games in 2008, a year which will definitely be a drop-off from their record-shattering 2007 campaign, but Jerrod Mayo was the right pick at the right position, and should help re-energize their linebackers. Their d-line is still solid, and will help minimize the loss of Asante Samuel. Look for Randy Moss' numbers to drop, and Laurence Maroney's to rise.
Pat- New England- Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Laurence Maroney. Need I say more? The defense will take a hit with the loss of Asante Samuel, but they still have one a top three offense in the NFL. I am going to go out on a limb and say the Pats will go at least 4-2 against the rest of the AFC East, meaning they will only need to go 8-2 or 7-3 to finish atop the AFC.
AFC North
Pat- Pittsburgh- The home playoff loss to the Jaguars in the Wild Card round last year left a lot to be desired by the Steelers. On the offensive side of the ball, Big Ben will have another solid year throwing the ball to Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward. Add in first rounder Rashard Mendenhall and you have a solid 1-2 running back punch with Willie Parker. The Steelers’ had the best overall defense last season, giving up the fewest total yards per game on average, and were tied for second in touchdowns given up (31).
Nick- Pittsburgh- I have some questions about the defense, but I love Lamarr Woodley in the linebacking corps. I love Roethlisberger, and see Holmes having a big year, and don't think this is the year Ward drops off. Parker's injuries aren't as much of a concern with Mendenhall as a safety valve. Pittsburgh's my favorite to dethrone the Pats in the AFC.
AFC West
Nick- San Diego- As much as I think Shawne Merriman is one of the dumbest men on Earth for falling into the giant machismo trap that is "NFL toughness," the Chargers will be better than ever in 2008, which isn't saying all that much. With all due respect to Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates remains a one-of-a-kind threat until Vernon Davis really shows the league something.
Pat- San Diego– The Chargers’ defense will most certainly take a hit with a less than 100% Shawne Merriman. However, with Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie on the corners and a solid return game, the defense will still be near the top in the AFC. Expect QB Philip Rivers to have a solid year with WRs Chris Chambers and Vincent Jackson, TE Antonio Gates, and, oh yeah, Ladanian Tomlinson coming out of the backfield.
AFC South
Pat- Indianapolis- The Colts are a very balanced squad on offense and defense. Wide outs Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison and Anthony Gonzalez show a great potential for Manning to 35 TDs this season. Add in a potent running game with Joseph Addai and there is no reason to expect the Colts’ offense to fall out of the top 5 from last season. The two anchors on the defensive side of the ball look in peak for. Defensive End Dwight Freeney should have a big year in the trenches, and SS Bob Sanders should continue to lead by example in the secondary.
Nick- Indianapolis- Even if Marvin Harrison falls further away from his legendary statistics this year, the Colts have more than enough fire power to get them through what is a very favorable schedule. If Peyton Manning's bursa sac issues are more than we know, than Jacksonville will thrive, but the Colts should only lose a handful of games.
AFC Wild Cards
Nick- Jacksonville and Denver- I hate doing this, Bills fans -- and my goodness, do I hope I'm wrong -- but the Jags have a very good schedule, and Denver scares me. Mike Shanahan knows how to coach, and the Champ Bailey/Dre Bly combo should prove more stout than last year. I'm not as big a fan of their wide-outs as Pat (see below), but Jay Cutler has finally won me over. Turns out it wasn't just "Kiperhype."
Pat- Denver and Jacksonville- I expect QB Jay Cutler to have a solid year with Brandon Marshall and Keary Colbert to throw to. Head coach Mike Shanahan is a magic man when it comes to his offensive line and the running game, expect RB Selvin Young to continue the trend. The Jags have maybe the best 1-2 running back punch with Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor (assuming Taylor isn't headed to jail). Jacksonville had the 12th best overall defense last year, allowing 313.8 ypg last season. There should not be much of a drop off, despite the loss of Marcus Stroud on the d-line in the off-season.
Pat's conference championship and Super Bowl picks
AFC- Pats over Colts
NFC- Cowboys over Panthers
Super Bowl- Pats over Cowboys
Nick's conference championship and Super Bowl picks
AFC- Steelers over Colts
NFC- Redskins over Cowboys
Super Bowl- Steelers over Redskins
Email: nick@wgr550.com
Thursday, August 28, 2008
UB football live chat review
Hey folks,
It's one of my favorite times of the year -- College football season. My preview technically started in a Buffalo.com chat room with UB's Jon Fuller and Buffalo.com's Evan Parker Pierce, looking ahead to the UB season. It was a great time, we had 250+ folks in the room, and I'd encourage everyone to log on to Buffalo.com every Wednesday at Noon for their IMportant people chat series (though I hardly qualify as important). Here are some highlights of the chat. Hope you enjoy, and I'll post another college football column later:
12:02 Buffalo.com - After years of struggling, it seems the UB Bulls football team has arrived - Turner Gill has been steering a turnaround for the program, with a shared MAC East title last year.
12:03 Buffalo.com - It seems the college football world is high on the Bulls for the first time. Jon, why do you think the Bulls are poised for a run this year?
12:04 Jon - Thanks for having me. Buffalo returns 18 starters to a team that won a share of the MAC regular season title last year and the players are playing under coach Gill for the third year. I think everyone is comfortable with the offensive and defensive systems and are excited to go.
12:05 Buffalo.com - Nick, what do you think about the Bulls' chances?
12:06 Nick - I just think it's difficult to not see the positives from a team that lost precious little in the area of assets. There are very few true weaknesses on this team, and one, linebacking, is more of an unknown than a weakness. Plus, senior quarterbacks are all the rage.
12:07 Buffalo.com - Speaking of senior QB's - Drew Willy is a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award - what do you think his prospects are for this year, especially with so many talented offensive skill players coming bakc?
12:10 Jon - Drew Willy is beginning his fourth year as the Bulls' starter, so he is very experienced. He is comfortable running coach Gill's offense and coach Gill is more than comfortable will Willy at the helm. With weapons like Naaman Roosevelt, Ernest Jackson and Brett Hamlin, I think he will stand out as one of the elite quarterbacks in the MAC.
12:12 Jon - As always, the MAC will be a tough league. As far as the East Division goes, I think Miami and Bowling Green will be the teams to watch, However, Temple should be much improved and Akron and Ohio have always had solid programs.
12:12 Nick - The topic of Drew is a terriby enticing one. He's grown every year, and I can remember how excited Howard Simon sounded describing his first game. He's grown in order; confidence, getting rid of the ball and finally, something Coach Gill talked about last year, his body language. As Jon said, too, lost in the Buffalo media's understandable longing for Naaman Roosevelt, is Ernest Jackson's big play ability and toughness in traffic.
12:12 Buffalo.com - Whoops, sorry. Naaman's a junior
12:12 [Comment From BK]
Jon, how is the MAC shaping up this year? Tough or no?
12:15 Jon - Look out for Bowling Green and Miami in the East. They will be tough. Temple should be much improved so the MAC opener with the Owls on Sept. 13 will be a big game.
12:16 Nick - The MAC is a pretty tough contest, but I honestly find it hard to see it as any more difficult than last season. I'm not totally buying into the Bowling Green hype (They're pretty good). If UB can close the deal against Miami, I love their chances in the West. Ball State is the class of the conference, mostly because of quarterback Nate Davis who is a Meast... part-man, part-beast.
12:18 [Comment From GZ]
Who will have a better record this year - the Bulls or the Bills?
12:20 Nick - Well, GZ... The Bills obviously play more games than the Bulls, but in terms of true winning percentage it should be close. I like both teams to be a game or two above .500... Look for the Bills at 9-7, and the Bulls at 8-5 or 7-6 depending on their bowl opponent (Yeah, I said it. Handle it).
12:21 [Comment From DJ]
UTEP has a very prolific QB of their own in Vittatoe...how do you expect the UB defense to handle him?
12:22 Jon - Vittatoe is a very good quarterback, but I think one of the strengths of our team is a defensive backfield. So they should give him a good test. Safety Davonte Shannon was a first-team All-MAC selection last year and safety Mike Newton has nine INTs over the last two years. We are also pretty solid at CBs with Domonic Cook and Josh Thomas.
12:22 [Comment From not the islander]
sean taylor was the only meast, RIP. jon, how about fans? how do you fill the stadium this year? and nick, how do you see WGR covering the team now that you guys dont have the live coverage?
12:23 Nick - In terms of WGR coverage, we'll be there for all the home games and one or two of the road... although maybe I shouldn't say "we." Am I allowed to be honest here? I like the idea of going to the Pitt game, but I also like the idea of adult hops and barley. Also...
12:24 Jon - Tickets have been selling very well. We nearly reached our season ticket goal and the season hasn't even started. We have averaged over 100 new season tickets per week over the last 10 weeks. The community is rallying around this team and their support is very important.
12:24 Nick - I'm a season ticket holder, and I know several of the staff members will be headed to UB Stadium as well... some on the Time Warner TV broadcast (Howard Simon and Jeremy White) and some as true fans.
12:25 Nick - Jon, I'm responsible for six of those season tickets. Is it against NCAA rules for you to buy me nachos at the opener?
12:25 Jon - I think it takes seven season tickets for the free nachos.
12:25 Nick - Son of a....
12:30 [Comment From DJ]
Which player has the best shot of playing on Sunday's?
12:30 Nick - Do we have to go with seniors, Jon? Can I take an underclassman?
12:32 Jon - As far as seniors go, I truly think Drew Willy has a shot. He is big and has a strong arm. His accuracy is also a plus. Other seniors that may get a shot are WR Ernest Jackson and guard Jeff Niedermier.
12:33 Nick - Davonte Shannon is one of the most exciting players in the Mid American Conference. I love watching this kid play football, and he was First Team All-MAC as a freshman. That's ridiculous (in a good way). Even his media guide bio is something to root for (Greatest athletic experience: "Championship. Coming soon...) and (Lifetime goal: Go to Heaven). Nice.
12:33 Nick - He'll play on Sundays... almost guaranteed.
12:33 [Comment From Nate]
I'll be at the Bills game tomorrow. Any chance they'll be flashing the UB score on the big board? I'd like to see UB sports have a stronger presence in the local psyche.
12:34 Nick - Nate, even I picked the UB game... come on, man.
12:34 Nick - Plus, the Bills are playing on four days rest, who are the ad wizards who came up with their schedule?
12:35 [Comment From Nate]
Well, that Bills ticket is already paid for. I'm trying to make it down to Pitt next week
12:36 Jon - I think winning cures everything. Buffalo is a town that rallies around winning teams. Unfortunately, the team has struggled in year's past, so they were more of an afterthought. However, if the team can have a strong year, I think the demand from fans will be there and the media will give us as much coverage as the Bills and Sabres.
12:37 Nick - Also, Primanti Brothers in Pittsburgh is legit. Get a sandwich with coleslaw on it. Trust me.
12:37 Nick - and fries on that sandwich. Unbelievably good.
12:37 [Comment From drew willy-nilly]
jon, at what point does UB become the flagship program of new york state? syracuse appears to have serious long-term issues...and cornell hasn't been the same since they went back-to-back in 1921 and 1922.
12:39 Jon - I think UB is ready to become New York's flagship school. I think that coach Gill has this program headed in the right direction and if the team continues it's upward swing. The sky is the limit.
12:39 [Comment From GZ]
I'd like to know - to what extent does winning the MAC, or competing in a bowl, help recruiting?
12:40 Jon - Winning a MAC Championship would do wonders for the program. A MAC title would give the Bulls even more national exposure which in turn helps recruiting.
12:40 [Comment From morning man]
nick, i enjoyed the show this morning when jeremy complained about getting old. i also enjoyed when the old guy called and gave you guys a through scolding. old guys are awesome.
12:41 Nick - Old guys are the best. like Jeremy. He's 29. Might as well buy diapers.
12:41 [Comment From mike]
i like turner gill alot but another great season and he's likely outta here...which I think spells doom and gloom again.
12:43 Jon - If coach Gill would leave, he would leave the program in great shape. In year's past, when a coach left it was because the team was struggling. If coach Gill leads the team to a MAC Championship and decides to take another job, it would be a much easier program to sell to a high profile coach.
12:43 Nick - Again, I'm going to be honest here... I think Turner would only leave for a huge-time job... I mean if he didn't take off for Nebraska, what would it take? I think Turner is legit when he says he signed on for something. I'm not naive enough this think he wouldn't go to a nice program like Oklahoma, UT or Texas Tech, but to just think any job would make him move doesn't seem to fit his demeanor and attitude.
12:44 Buffalo.com - Speaking of doom and gloom:
12:44 [Comment From John K]
What do you think of the article that came out recently saying Buffalo was #3 on most miserable sports cities
12:44 Nick - I hate it and the person who wrote it.
12:45 Buffalo.com - An NFL team on the upswing, a reliably competitive NHL team, and a D-1 football program on the rise? That's miserable? Maybe unlucky is a better word to describe Buffalo's sports history.
12:45 Nick - But there's an aire of legitimacy in it... the truth is... it's the same city who ponied up over $123,000 in our Radiothon for Hunter's Hope, which we were happy to have Turner as a guest on. So if we want to play the tough guy role and be miserable, we're going to have to continue to pretty much be the best people around.
12:45 [Comment From DJ]
who do you guys think will be playing for the national title?
12:45 Nick - A Big 12 team against an SEC team. Does that count?
12:47 Nick - I'll write something more on it later, but if I had to guess... if Auburn's new coordinators work out, they'll come out of the SEC... but I like Florida if Percy Harvin heals well. Also look out for Georgia, as everyone has love for. How bout Oklahoma vs. Florida?
12:47 Nick - Maybe Texas.
12:47 Nick - Or Michigan/UB
12:48 [Comment From Nate]
Also, how effective to recruiting is having players drafted into the NFL?
12:49 Nick - That has to be huge, and not just for recruiting but for the players on the team. I ended up in touch with Trevor Scott after the Raiders picked him up. I think Trevor and Jamey Richard are revered at UB Stadium, and there have been others beforehand (Gemarra Williams, Ed Ellis, Chad Upshaw).
12:49 Nick - What do you think, Jon?
12:50 Jon - Very effective. When a recruit can walk into the coach's office and see a picture of Jamey Richard in a Colts uniform or Trevor Scott in a Raiders uniform, it gives our program a legitimacy in the eyes of recruits.
12:50 [Comment From mike]
i really like florida
12:51 Nick - You have to... I sort of wish the Bills had picked Derrick Harvey, but look what he got paid.
12:51 Nick - My goodness, college football is so much more fun than the pros.
12:52 Buffalo.com - If college football is so much more fun, would you say college football gets enough coverage in this area?
12:52 Nick - No. A resounding no.
12:54 Nick - Places like the Niagara Gazette have really upped their coverage of UB, even though it's not in Niagara County, and The Buffalo News' coverage has creeped up a little bit, but the numbers say that the Sabres and Bills push sales around here. College football fans need to make their voices heard. Trust me, as a member of the media, there are subjects we are dying to cover. You need to tell the people who matter that it matters to you.
12:54 Jon - I think that the media in this town in too focused on the Bills and pro football and in turn that helps the Ralph sell out every week. If UB football had two stories a day in the Buffalo News like the Bills do, I think local interest in the program would take off.
12:54 Nick - It's like those letter writing campaigns to Congress. Everyone says they are going to do it, but they'd rather forward chain mail about some rose that never dies if you send it to 10 people.
12:55 Nick - It doesn't work. No roses at the Mendola house.
12:55 Buffalo.com - We're getting to the end of our lunch hour here, so we'll toss out one final question: UB vs. UTEP - who you got, and by how many?
12:56 Jon - I think it will be an offensive shootout. Both teams have explosive offenses so it should be very exciting. But of course I have to go with UB.
12:56 Nick - Well, UB has some huge question marks at defensive end and linebacker, and I think the latter will be too green to shut UTEP down this early in the year, but I like James Starks to have a monster day, and look out for Ernest Jackson.
12:56 Nick - I say it goes like this...
12:57 Nick - Starks for 135 and a TD, Alex Pierre blocks a punt and the Bulls outlast the Miners, 32-31.
12:57 Buffalo.com - Let's hope for a high scoring affair.
It's one of my favorite times of the year -- College football season. My preview technically started in a Buffalo.com chat room with UB's Jon Fuller and Buffalo.com's Evan Parker Pierce, looking ahead to the UB season. It was a great time, we had 250+ folks in the room, and I'd encourage everyone to log on to Buffalo.com every Wednesday at Noon for their IMportant people chat series (though I hardly qualify as important). Here are some highlights of the chat. Hope you enjoy, and I'll post another college football column later:
12:02 Buffalo.com - After years of struggling, it seems the UB Bulls football team has arrived - Turner Gill has been steering a turnaround for the program, with a shared MAC East title last year.
12:03 Buffalo.com - It seems the college football world is high on the Bulls for the first time. Jon, why do you think the Bulls are poised for a run this year?
12:04 Jon - Thanks for having me. Buffalo returns 18 starters to a team that won a share of the MAC regular season title last year and the players are playing under coach Gill for the third year. I think everyone is comfortable with the offensive and defensive systems and are excited to go.
12:05 Buffalo.com - Nick, what do you think about the Bulls' chances?
12:06 Nick - I just think it's difficult to not see the positives from a team that lost precious little in the area of assets. There are very few true weaknesses on this team, and one, linebacking, is more of an unknown than a weakness. Plus, senior quarterbacks are all the rage.
12:07 Buffalo.com - Speaking of senior QB's - Drew Willy is a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award - what do you think his prospects are for this year, especially with so many talented offensive skill players coming bakc?
12:10 Jon - Drew Willy is beginning his fourth year as the Bulls' starter, so he is very experienced. He is comfortable running coach Gill's offense and coach Gill is more than comfortable will Willy at the helm. With weapons like Naaman Roosevelt, Ernest Jackson and Brett Hamlin, I think he will stand out as one of the elite quarterbacks in the MAC.
12:12 Jon - As always, the MAC will be a tough league. As far as the East Division goes, I think Miami and Bowling Green will be the teams to watch, However, Temple should be much improved and Akron and Ohio have always had solid programs.
12:12 Nick - The topic of Drew is a terriby enticing one. He's grown every year, and I can remember how excited Howard Simon sounded describing his first game. He's grown in order; confidence, getting rid of the ball and finally, something Coach Gill talked about last year, his body language. As Jon said, too, lost in the Buffalo media's understandable longing for Naaman Roosevelt, is Ernest Jackson's big play ability and toughness in traffic.
12:12 Buffalo.com - Whoops, sorry. Naaman's a junior
12:12 [Comment From BK]
Jon, how is the MAC shaping up this year? Tough or no?
12:15 Jon - Look out for Bowling Green and Miami in the East. They will be tough. Temple should be much improved so the MAC opener with the Owls on Sept. 13 will be a big game.
12:16 Nick - The MAC is a pretty tough contest, but I honestly find it hard to see it as any more difficult than last season. I'm not totally buying into the Bowling Green hype (They're pretty good). If UB can close the deal against Miami, I love their chances in the West. Ball State is the class of the conference, mostly because of quarterback Nate Davis who is a Meast... part-man, part-beast.
12:18 [Comment From GZ]
Who will have a better record this year - the Bulls or the Bills?
12:20 Nick - Well, GZ... The Bills obviously play more games than the Bulls, but in terms of true winning percentage it should be close. I like both teams to be a game or two above .500... Look for the Bills at 9-7, and the Bulls at 8-5 or 7-6 depending on their bowl opponent (Yeah, I said it. Handle it).
12:21 [Comment From DJ]
UTEP has a very prolific QB of their own in Vittatoe...how do you expect the UB defense to handle him?
12:22 Jon - Vittatoe is a very good quarterback, but I think one of the strengths of our team is a defensive backfield. So they should give him a good test. Safety Davonte Shannon was a first-team All-MAC selection last year and safety Mike Newton has nine INTs over the last two years. We are also pretty solid at CBs with Domonic Cook and Josh Thomas.
12:22 [Comment From not the islander]
sean taylor was the only meast, RIP. jon, how about fans? how do you fill the stadium this year? and nick, how do you see WGR covering the team now that you guys dont have the live coverage?
12:23 Nick - In terms of WGR coverage, we'll be there for all the home games and one or two of the road... although maybe I shouldn't say "we." Am I allowed to be honest here? I like the idea of going to the Pitt game, but I also like the idea of adult hops and barley. Also...
12:24 Jon - Tickets have been selling very well. We nearly reached our season ticket goal and the season hasn't even started. We have averaged over 100 new season tickets per week over the last 10 weeks. The community is rallying around this team and their support is very important.
12:24 Nick - I'm a season ticket holder, and I know several of the staff members will be headed to UB Stadium as well... some on the Time Warner TV broadcast (Howard Simon and Jeremy White) and some as true fans.
12:25 Nick - Jon, I'm responsible for six of those season tickets. Is it against NCAA rules for you to buy me nachos at the opener?
12:25 Jon - I think it takes seven season tickets for the free nachos.
12:25 Nick - Son of a....
12:30 [Comment From DJ]
Which player has the best shot of playing on Sunday's?
12:30 Nick - Do we have to go with seniors, Jon? Can I take an underclassman?
12:32 Jon - As far as seniors go, I truly think Drew Willy has a shot. He is big and has a strong arm. His accuracy is also a plus. Other seniors that may get a shot are WR Ernest Jackson and guard Jeff Niedermier.
12:33 Nick - Davonte Shannon is one of the most exciting players in the Mid American Conference. I love watching this kid play football, and he was First Team All-MAC as a freshman. That's ridiculous (in a good way). Even his media guide bio is something to root for (Greatest athletic experience: "Championship. Coming soon...) and (Lifetime goal: Go to Heaven). Nice.
12:33 Nick - He'll play on Sundays... almost guaranteed.
12:33 [Comment From Nate]
I'll be at the Bills game tomorrow. Any chance they'll be flashing the UB score on the big board? I'd like to see UB sports have a stronger presence in the local psyche.
12:34 Nick - Nate, even I picked the UB game... come on, man.
12:34 Nick - Plus, the Bills are playing on four days rest, who are the ad wizards who came up with their schedule?
12:35 [Comment From Nate]
Well, that Bills ticket is already paid for. I'm trying to make it down to Pitt next week
12:36 Jon - I think winning cures everything. Buffalo is a town that rallies around winning teams. Unfortunately, the team has struggled in year's past, so they were more of an afterthought. However, if the team can have a strong year, I think the demand from fans will be there and the media will give us as much coverage as the Bills and Sabres.
12:37 Nick - Also, Primanti Brothers in Pittsburgh is legit. Get a sandwich with coleslaw on it. Trust me.
12:37 Nick - and fries on that sandwich. Unbelievably good.
12:37 [Comment From drew willy-nilly]
jon, at what point does UB become the flagship program of new york state? syracuse appears to have serious long-term issues...and cornell hasn't been the same since they went back-to-back in 1921 and 1922.
12:39 Jon - I think UB is ready to become New York's flagship school. I think that coach Gill has this program headed in the right direction and if the team continues it's upward swing. The sky is the limit.
12:39 [Comment From GZ]
I'd like to know - to what extent does winning the MAC, or competing in a bowl, help recruiting?
12:40 Jon - Winning a MAC Championship would do wonders for the program. A MAC title would give the Bulls even more national exposure which in turn helps recruiting.
12:40 [Comment From morning man]
nick, i enjoyed the show this morning when jeremy complained about getting old. i also enjoyed when the old guy called and gave you guys a through scolding. old guys are awesome.
12:41 Nick - Old guys are the best. like Jeremy. He's 29. Might as well buy diapers.
12:41 [Comment From mike]
i like turner gill alot but another great season and he's likely outta here...which I think spells doom and gloom again.
12:43 Jon - If coach Gill would leave, he would leave the program in great shape. In year's past, when a coach left it was because the team was struggling. If coach Gill leads the team to a MAC Championship and decides to take another job, it would be a much easier program to sell to a high profile coach.
12:43 Nick - Again, I'm going to be honest here... I think Turner would only leave for a huge-time job... I mean if he didn't take off for Nebraska, what would it take? I think Turner is legit when he says he signed on for something. I'm not naive enough this think he wouldn't go to a nice program like Oklahoma, UT or Texas Tech, but to just think any job would make him move doesn't seem to fit his demeanor and attitude.
12:44 Buffalo.com - Speaking of doom and gloom:
12:44 [Comment From John K]
What do you think of the article that came out recently saying Buffalo was #3 on most miserable sports cities
12:44 Nick - I hate it and the person who wrote it.
12:45 Buffalo.com - An NFL team on the upswing, a reliably competitive NHL team, and a D-1 football program on the rise? That's miserable? Maybe unlucky is a better word to describe Buffalo's sports history.
12:45 Nick - But there's an aire of legitimacy in it... the truth is... it's the same city who ponied up over $123,000 in our Radiothon for Hunter's Hope, which we were happy to have Turner as a guest on. So if we want to play the tough guy role and be miserable, we're going to have to continue to pretty much be the best people around.
12:45 [Comment From DJ]
who do you guys think will be playing for the national title?
12:45 Nick - A Big 12 team against an SEC team. Does that count?
12:47 Nick - I'll write something more on it later, but if I had to guess... if Auburn's new coordinators work out, they'll come out of the SEC... but I like Florida if Percy Harvin heals well. Also look out for Georgia, as everyone has love for. How bout Oklahoma vs. Florida?
12:47 Nick - Maybe Texas.
12:47 Nick - Or Michigan/UB
12:48 [Comment From Nate]
Also, how effective to recruiting is having players drafted into the NFL?
12:49 Nick - That has to be huge, and not just for recruiting but for the players on the team. I ended up in touch with Trevor Scott after the Raiders picked him up. I think Trevor and Jamey Richard are revered at UB Stadium, and there have been others beforehand (Gemarra Williams, Ed Ellis, Chad Upshaw).
12:49 Nick - What do you think, Jon?
12:50 Jon - Very effective. When a recruit can walk into the coach's office and see a picture of Jamey Richard in a Colts uniform or Trevor Scott in a Raiders uniform, it gives our program a legitimacy in the eyes of recruits.
12:50 [Comment From mike]
i really like florida
12:51 Nick - You have to... I sort of wish the Bills had picked Derrick Harvey, but look what he got paid.
12:51 Nick - My goodness, college football is so much more fun than the pros.
12:52 Buffalo.com - If college football is so much more fun, would you say college football gets enough coverage in this area?
12:52 Nick - No. A resounding no.
12:54 Nick - Places like the Niagara Gazette have really upped their coverage of UB, even though it's not in Niagara County, and The Buffalo News' coverage has creeped up a little bit, but the numbers say that the Sabres and Bills push sales around here. College football fans need to make their voices heard. Trust me, as a member of the media, there are subjects we are dying to cover. You need to tell the people who matter that it matters to you.
12:54 Jon - I think that the media in this town in too focused on the Bills and pro football and in turn that helps the Ralph sell out every week. If UB football had two stories a day in the Buffalo News like the Bills do, I think local interest in the program would take off.
12:54 Nick - It's like those letter writing campaigns to Congress. Everyone says they are going to do it, but they'd rather forward chain mail about some rose that never dies if you send it to 10 people.
12:55 Nick - It doesn't work. No roses at the Mendola house.
12:55 Buffalo.com - We're getting to the end of our lunch hour here, so we'll toss out one final question: UB vs. UTEP - who you got, and by how many?
12:56 Jon - I think it will be an offensive shootout. Both teams have explosive offenses so it should be very exciting. But of course I have to go with UB.
12:56 Nick - Well, UB has some huge question marks at defensive end and linebacker, and I think the latter will be too green to shut UTEP down this early in the year, but I like James Starks to have a monster day, and look out for Ernest Jackson.
12:56 Nick - I say it goes like this...
12:57 Nick - Starks for 135 and a TD, Alex Pierre blocks a punt and the Bulls outlast the Miners, 32-31.
12:57 Buffalo.com - Let's hope for a high scoring affair.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Judging even worse than figure skating
As I'm sure all of you know, watching gymnastics is my life. I sweat gymnastics. Tiny little men and women jump out of my skin when I'm exercising and do backflips and stuff. It's awesome.Seriously, though, it doesn't matter if you watch gymnastics once every four years or every other hour, a gymnast was hosed this week, and considering the week she had and the manner in which she lost, it's an absolute joke to a wonderful Olympic games.
America's Alicia Sacramone deserved better after a terrible week. Earlier in the games, she made a crucial error that cost the American womens team the gold medal.
Sunday's NBC broadcast showed much worse.
Sacramone finished in fourth place despite landing both of her attempts in the vault (or something like that). Home country hero Fei Cheng landed her first and fell on her second. Her average score still — somehow — was higher than Sacramone, but the punch line came just a few moments later.
Another gymnast landed on her knees, and was given a much lower score than Cheng. It was worse than questionable, it was deplorable, as Sacramone ended up medal-less. It's bad enough the Chinese seem to be using girls just slightly older than infants in these games. This was much worse.
I don't know enough about gymnastics to write more, so forgive me, but I'm as fired up as I've ever been. And to think, my Newcastle United squad pulled off a big road draw at Manchester United. I should be thrilled. Instead, there are little men and women doing floor routines all over my hard wood floors.
Email: nick@wgr550.com
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