Kevin Prince played well against Texas, but has missed practice this week due to injury.Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesFolks in Westwood had plenty of reason to be excited after the UCLA Bruins trounced the Texas Longhorns in Austin, 34-12.However, even triumphs of such magnitude come with some trepidation.In UCLA's case, it comes in the person of Kevin Prince.The redshirt sophomore has missed the last few days of practice with a sore knee, an injury that he suffered while hooking the 'Horns and that has led him to have his knee drained twice this week, Miami Dolphins jersey
Needless to say, this comes as a rather disappointing, if predictable, piece of bad news for Rick Neuheisel's Bruins.With momentum on UCLA's side after a huge victory, Neuheisel and offensive coordinator Norm Chow had hoped to take advantage of a home date with the hapless Cougars of Washington State.However, with Prince potentially out for Saturday's game at the Rose Bowl, the Bruins may have to put their plans to open up the playbook on hold for the sake of winning.Prince's absence in practice has left the bulk of the snaps to true sophomore Richard Brehaut, Minnesota Vikings
who hasn't exactly looked sharp this week. After duking it out with Prince for the starting gig before the season and splitting time with the first unit in the summer, Brehaut has seen his opportunities dwindle in the last couple weeks, leaving him rusty and ill-prepared to lead the offense.Given more time under center, Brehaut should be able to get himself back up to speed, particularly since the Bruins won't need him to be a world-beater against Wazzu.However, win or lose, the UCLA football team may look back at this week as a monumental moment missed, a shot to show off the offense squandered.Even if Prince is able to play on Saturday, he may still be limited by his injury, which would once again force the coaching staff to scale back the attack and have the team play conservatively rather than take risks against the Cougs.Which brings up a more important issue underlying UCLA's chances of success this year and going forwardthe health of Kevin Prince.Prince has shown a propensity for injury ever since his high school playing days at Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino.And though the Bruins' O-line hasn't done Prince many favors in his two years in Westwood, Bruins fans still can't help but cringe at the thought of their quarterback going down with another sprain, bruise, or tear every time he takes New England Patriots jersey
off from the pocket.If Rick Neuheisel has any hope of getting his guys to play as well the rest of the season as they did against Houston and Texas, he'll need Prince on the field and playing well.Whether Prince can delivery is still very much up in the air.
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Big 12 Football: Monday Morning One-Liners
Aaron M. Sprecher/Getty ImagesBaylor was blasted by Texas Christian on Saturday, handing the Horned Frogs their 16th straight home win. Colorado loves their bye week before an October 2nd match up with Georgia. Iowa State played a tough game against Kansas State and their star running back Daniel Thomas. Southern Mississippi kicked Kansas off their pedestal and handed the Jayhawks their second embarrassing loss on the season. Kansas State did something for the first time in 10 years, and running back Daniel Thomas set one career high; check it out HERE. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Missouri escaped defeat by San Diego State with significant help from TJ Moe. Nebraska overwhelmed Washington and Heisman hopeful Jake Locker. Their home win streak now stands at 33 after the Oklahoma Sooners barely defeated Air Force on Saturday. Oklahoma State has found itself ranked No. 25 in the USA Today coaches poll. Texas defeated Texas Tech in Lubbock on Saturday, but it was a very rocky game for the Longhorns. Either Texas AM was caught in a trap game, or Florida International is for real (lost 19-14 to Rutgers a week ago). Texas Tech failed to beat Texas in Lubbock for the second straight game.
Missouri escaped defeat by San Diego State with significant help from TJ Moe. Nebraska overwhelmed Washington and Heisman hopeful Jake Locker. Their home win streak now stands at 33 after the Oklahoma Sooners barely defeated Air Force on Saturday. Oklahoma State has found itself ranked No. 25 in the USA Today coaches poll. Texas defeated Texas Tech in Lubbock on Saturday, but it was a very rocky game for the Longhorns. Either Texas AM was caught in a trap game, or Florida International is for real (lost 19-14 to Rutgers a week ago). Texas Tech failed to beat Texas in Lubbock for the second straight game.
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Michigan Football: The Wolverines Have a New Hero
AP/OhioCollegeFootball.com Dan PoelThink back to all of the Michigan greats over the years. All of the men who have made you proud to be a Wolverine. Desmond Howard, Bo Schembechler, Charles Woodson, Chris Perry, Tom Brady, and most recently, Denard Robinson. Well, make Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
room for one more, and this one may surprise you. The newest Michigan hero has absolutely no affiliation with the University of Michigan, but yet shares a common bond: a hatred of The Ohio State Buckeyes. His name is Brandon Hanning, aka Rufus, the former mascot for THE Ohio University. I say former because his recent actions at the Ohio State/Ohio football game on September 18th, 2010, caused him to not only lose his job as mascot, but also got him banned from attending another Ohio University athletic event, ever. What could a mascot do that could be so reprehensible? Only what every Michigan fan across the country has thought of doing at one point or anotherassaulting Brutus the Buckeye in front of his home crowd. Words cannot possibly do it justice, so you have to enjoy the video here to truly see what a great moment it was. But I think it's important to get the back story of the gentleman that once called himself Rufus. You see, this was no impromptu act. This was a premeditated attack that took over a year of planning and a dedication to seeing a dream through that most of us have never been able to muster. While a student at Ohio University, Brandon Hanning was watching a previous OSU/Ohio football game, and while watching the mascots, thought it would be funny if someone were to tackle Ohio State's mascot, Brutus. The mere thought of seeing Brutus being slammed to the ground by another mascot was enough motivation for Brandon to put his master plan in motion. He set out to become the next Rufus mascot for Ohio San Diego Chargers jersey
University, for no other reason than to humiliate Ohio State, and more importantly, their mascot. What that entailed was actually BEING Rufus for all of the other Ohio University sporting events. Hundreds of hours spent acting out a role simply to go unnoticed when the time to strike came. On Saturday, September 18th, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio, the moment had arrived. Hanning's plan was to attack at mid field, just as the Buckeye's were coming onto the field at the beginning of the game. And sure enough, just as Brutus and the Ohio State football team ran onto the field, Rufus made his move. He sprinted to midfield and met his nemesis with a tackle. But the blow failed to bring down the mighty Brutus. In fact, it knocked the head off of Rufus himself. Collecting himself, Rufus got his head together and went in for a second, far more devastating attack.Following Brutus into theend zone, Rufus struck again. This time jumping onto the OSU mascot's back from behind and wrestling him to the ground, all the while striking blows to the nut's head. As the two mascots separate, without words you can clearly see that the only thing Brutus asks is, "What the [EXPLETIVE]?" And as quickly as the attack had begun, it ended. Rufus was pulled aside by security and told to stay away from Brutus. His dream had San Francisco 49ers jersey
come to fruition in dramatic style, and in an instant he was admired as a hero to many, and an enemy to the Ohio State faithful. Since the incident occurred last week, Hanning has received a wide range of responses. Some people have gone as far as to threaten his life while others have said he deserves a statue honoring the moment. Whatever abuse or reward he may receive, the memories will last a lifetime. Thank you Rufus, you are now officially Michigan's adopted mascot!
room for one more, and this one may surprise you. The newest Michigan hero has absolutely no affiliation with the University of Michigan, but yet shares a common bond: a hatred of The Ohio State Buckeyes. His name is Brandon Hanning, aka Rufus, the former mascot for THE Ohio University. I say former because his recent actions at the Ohio State/Ohio football game on September 18th, 2010, caused him to not only lose his job as mascot, but also got him banned from attending another Ohio University athletic event, ever. What could a mascot do that could be so reprehensible? Only what every Michigan fan across the country has thought of doing at one point or anotherassaulting Brutus the Buckeye in front of his home crowd. Words cannot possibly do it justice, so you have to enjoy the video here to truly see what a great moment it was. But I think it's important to get the back story of the gentleman that once called himself Rufus. You see, this was no impromptu act. This was a premeditated attack that took over a year of planning and a dedication to seeing a dream through that most of us have never been able to muster. While a student at Ohio University, Brandon Hanning was watching a previous OSU/Ohio football game, and while watching the mascots, thought it would be funny if someone were to tackle Ohio State's mascot, Brutus. The mere thought of seeing Brutus being slammed to the ground by another mascot was enough motivation for Brandon to put his master plan in motion. He set out to become the next Rufus mascot for Ohio San Diego Chargers jersey
University, for no other reason than to humiliate Ohio State, and more importantly, their mascot. What that entailed was actually BEING Rufus for all of the other Ohio University sporting events. Hundreds of hours spent acting out a role simply to go unnoticed when the time to strike came. On Saturday, September 18th, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio, the moment had arrived. Hanning's plan was to attack at mid field, just as the Buckeye's were coming onto the field at the beginning of the game. And sure enough, just as Brutus and the Ohio State football team ran onto the field, Rufus made his move. He sprinted to midfield and met his nemesis with a tackle. But the blow failed to bring down the mighty Brutus. In fact, it knocked the head off of Rufus himself. Collecting himself, Rufus got his head together and went in for a second, far more devastating attack.Following Brutus into theend zone, Rufus struck again. This time jumping onto the OSU mascot's back from behind and wrestling him to the ground, all the while striking blows to the nut's head. As the two mascots separate, without words you can clearly see that the only thing Brutus asks is, "What the [EXPLETIVE]?" And as quickly as the attack had begun, it ended. Rufus was pulled aside by security and told to stay away from Brutus. His dream had San Francisco 49ers jersey
come to fruition in dramatic style, and in an instant he was admired as a hero to many, and an enemy to the Ohio State faithful. Since the incident occurred last week, Hanning has received a wide range of responses. Some people have gone as far as to threaten his life while others have said he deserves a statue honoring the moment. Whatever abuse or reward he may receive, the memories will last a lifetime. Thank you Rufus, you are now officially Michigan's adopted mascot!
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams "Rams trying to rest, regroup and refocus"
The bye last week probably couldn;t have come at a better time for the St. Louis Rams. Coming off its fourth straight lopsided loss, the team had just fired its head coach -- who previously benched $65 million quarterback Marc Bulger.In a season packed with bad news for the 0-4 Rams, the latest is that their next opponent -- the Washington Redskins -- is among the hottest teams in the NFL. The Redskins started the season 0-1, but they've bounced back to win four straight and emerge as a contender in the NFC.After the Washington game, the Rams have the unenviable Dallas Cowboys jersey
task of hosting the Cowboys (4-1) and playing at New England (3-1). For a team that's winless and hapless, facing three teams with a combined record of 11-3 probably isn;t a recipe for success.Commentary: It remains to be seen whether interim coach Jim Haslett will be able to create a pulse in St. Louis. It was obvious that team morale was down with former coach Scott Linehan, especially after he benched Bulger before the 31-14 loss to Buffalo.The first move Haslett made after replacing Linehan was to reinstate Bulger for the rest of the season. That erased any chance of there being a quarterback controversy with the Rams between Bulger and Trent Green. Bulger wasn;t the reason the Rams started 0-3 with him under center. Despite taking 11 sacks in three games, Bulger completed almost 60 percent of his passes for 500-plus yards during that span.One main problem (besides the porous offensive line) for the Rams is the fact that running back Steven Jackson is the team;s leading receiver (20 catches). The Rams have to get Pro Bowl wideout Torry Holt more involved in the offense if the losing is going to end. Haslett also must get Jackson more carries. Through the first four games, Jackson is averaging just a shade over 18 carries a game and only has one touchdown.Fan Pulse: Rams fans are still frustrated, but they're willing to give Haslett a chance. No one likes to see their favorite team lose, but to do so seemingly without much of an effort was too much for St. Louis loyalists to handle. Anyone who saw Julius Jones bounce off the Rams; defenders like a pinball and run for a touchdown earlier this season had to be wondering if the 'D' actually knew how to tackle.Fantasy Football Impact: At the start of the season, Bulger, Jackson and Holt were three prized fantasy targets. Now you can find them at the Denver Broncos jersey
bottom of a team;s roster, buried there until they start to show some life. Jackson is the best bet to have a fantasy impact in the near future.Injury Watch: Tight end Randy McMichael is out for at least two months and maybe more after his injury in the Buffalo game. Wide receivers Drew Bennett and Keenan Burton are expected back from injuries by the Dallas game on Oct. 19. (2)
task of hosting the Cowboys (4-1) and playing at New England (3-1). For a team that's winless and hapless, facing three teams with a combined record of 11-3 probably isn;t a recipe for success.Commentary: It remains to be seen whether interim coach Jim Haslett will be able to create a pulse in St. Louis. It was obvious that team morale was down with former coach Scott Linehan, especially after he benched Bulger before the 31-14 loss to Buffalo.The first move Haslett made after replacing Linehan was to reinstate Bulger for the rest of the season. That erased any chance of there being a quarterback controversy with the Rams between Bulger and Trent Green. Bulger wasn;t the reason the Rams started 0-3 with him under center. Despite taking 11 sacks in three games, Bulger completed almost 60 percent of his passes for 500-plus yards during that span.One main problem (besides the porous offensive line) for the Rams is the fact that running back Steven Jackson is the team;s leading receiver (20 catches). The Rams have to get Pro Bowl wideout Torry Holt more involved in the offense if the losing is going to end. Haslett also must get Jackson more carries. Through the first four games, Jackson is averaging just a shade over 18 carries a game and only has one touchdown.Fan Pulse: Rams fans are still frustrated, but they're willing to give Haslett a chance. No one likes to see their favorite team lose, but to do so seemingly without much of an effort was too much for St. Louis loyalists to handle. Anyone who saw Julius Jones bounce off the Rams; defenders like a pinball and run for a touchdown earlier this season had to be wondering if the 'D' actually knew how to tackle.Fantasy Football Impact: At the start of the season, Bulger, Jackson and Holt were three prized fantasy targets. Now you can find them at the Denver Broncos jersey
bottom of a team;s roster, buried there until they start to show some life. Jackson is the best bet to have a fantasy impact in the near future.Injury Watch: Tight end Randy McMichael is out for at least two months and maybe more after his injury in the Buffalo game. Wide receivers Drew Bennett and Keenan Burton are expected back from injuries by the Dallas game on Oct. 19. (2)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Carolina Panthers players subpoenaed in steroid probe March 14 2005
Investigators probing an alternative medicine doctor want to speak to at least 9 current or former members of the Carolina Panthers about possible illegal steroid prescriptions, according to The State - a Columbia, SC newspaper. Dr. James Shortt, a West Columbia physician, is under investigation for allegedly prescribing steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs, said the local paper Sunday's published editions. The newspaper based its story on court records and sources speaking on condition of anonymity. Federal agents subpoenaed the Panthers forDenver Broncos jersey
the addresses and contact information of several players as part of the probe. Sources familiar with the investigation told the newspaper that some of the players were on the Panthers team that competed in the 2004 Super Bowl. Neither the paper nor Hurney revealed the identities of the players. The newspaper said a sworn statement from Dave Lawrence, a State Law Enforcement Division agent, said Shortt has been under investigation since May 2004 when a Columbia bodybuilder told the Drug Enforcement Administration that Shortt had a reputation for readily prescribing steroids for patients in exchange for $1,000.
the addresses and contact information of several players as part of the probe. Sources familiar with the investigation told the newspaper that some of the players were on the Panthers team that competed in the 2004 Super Bowl. Neither the paper nor Hurney revealed the identities of the players. The newspaper said a sworn statement from Dave Lawrence, a State Law Enforcement Division agent, said Shortt has been under investigation since May 2004 when a Columbia bodybuilder told the Drug Enforcement Administration that Shortt had a reputation for readily prescribing steroids for patients in exchange for $1,000.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Derrick Rose, an All Star?
Has Derrick Rose turned a corner after his rough start to the year? During the first month of the season, Rose was averaging roughly 16 ppg, 5 apg and 3 rpg on 46% shooting. But how has he done lately? In Rose's last 12 games, he has put up some staggering numbers. Over that span, Rose has averaged 22.8 ppg, 7.0 apg, 4.3 rpg on 49.8% shooting from the field. In addition, his true shooting percentage over that span is 53.9%. So after that rough start, he's been able to pull his averages up to 18.5 ppg, 5.9 apg, 3.5 rpg on 45.7% shooting. That's a major leap from Philadelphia Eagles jersey
his earlier averages. His jump shot looks much improved and his speed is seemingly back. So this begs the question, with his current popularity and his improvement in play, does Derrick Rose have a chance at making his first all-star appearance this season? It'll be difficult for him because of his rough start, that's for sure. But assuming that Dwyane Wade and Allen Iverson get voted in as starters and Iverson is injured come the all-star game, that would mean that Vince Carter would get the other starting nod by the fans. After that Rose's competition boils down to Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, Gilbert Arenas, Joe Johnson and Mo Williams. Arenas is most likely out of the running due to his recent incident involving guns. And while Joe Johnson is probably a lock for one of the reserve spots, the rest is a bit of a crap shoot. Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Rajon Rondo probably deserves the nod over his teammate, Ray Allen. But because both players are playing for a contender, an argument can be made that the presence of the other holds back each player's individual statistics. Even so, Allen seemingly has lost a step the past couple of seasons. And as for Mo Williams, he might San Diego Chargers jersey
get the nod only because he's playing for a good team. But his numbers really don't support another all-star nod. So is it possible that Rose gets picked by the coaches and players? Sure. Is it likely? It's hard to say at this point. But if he keeps up his current level of play, he definitely has a legitimate shot. However, Rose's teammate, Joakim Noah, also might have a shot if he is picked by the coaches. And if Noah makes it in, Rose's chances are diminished quite a bit.
his earlier averages. His jump shot looks much improved and his speed is seemingly back. So this begs the question, with his current popularity and his improvement in play, does Derrick Rose have a chance at making his first all-star appearance this season? It'll be difficult for him because of his rough start, that's for sure. But assuming that Dwyane Wade and Allen Iverson get voted in as starters and Iverson is injured come the all-star game, that would mean that Vince Carter would get the other starting nod by the fans. After that Rose's competition boils down to Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, Gilbert Arenas, Joe Johnson and Mo Williams. Arenas is most likely out of the running due to his recent incident involving guns. And while Joe Johnson is probably a lock for one of the reserve spots, the rest is a bit of a crap shoot. Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Rajon Rondo probably deserves the nod over his teammate, Ray Allen. But because both players are playing for a contender, an argument can be made that the presence of the other holds back each player's individual statistics. Even so, Allen seemingly has lost a step the past couple of seasons. And as for Mo Williams, he might San Diego Chargers jersey
get the nod only because he's playing for a good team. But his numbers really don't support another all-star nod. So is it possible that Rose gets picked by the coaches and players? Sure. Is it likely? It's hard to say at this point. But if he keeps up his current level of play, he definitely has a legitimate shot. However, Rose's teammate, Joakim Noah, also might have a shot if he is picked by the coaches. And if Noah makes it in, Rose's chances are diminished quite a bit.
12 Jan 11 NBA All-Star Game Reserves Announced
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesMoments ago, the NBA announced the reserve selections for the 2010 NBA All-Star Game. They are as followed:*notes as first All-Star Game appearance .Eastern ConferenceG-Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls*G-Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics*G-Joe Johnson, Atlanta HawksF-Paul Pierce, Boston CelticsF-Gerald Wallace, Charlotte Bobcats*F/C-Chris Bosh, Toronto RaptorsF/C-Al Horford, Atlanta Hawks*They will be joined by the already announced starting lineup of Allen Iverson, Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, and Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
Dwight Howard.Western ConferenceG-Chris Paul, New Orleans HornetsG-Deron Williams, Utah Jazz*G-Brandon Roy, Portland TrailblazersF-Pau Gasol, Los Angeles LakersF-Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas MavericksF-Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder*F-Zach Randolph, Memphis Grizzlies*Alongside them is the perennial lineup of Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Tim Duncan, and Amar'e Stoudemire.The game will be held on February 14 at Dallas Cowboys Stadium. It is reported that the event has sold over 85,000 tickets already, which would be the largest crowd ever at a basketball event.
Dwight Howard.Western ConferenceG-Chris Paul, New Orleans HornetsG-Deron Williams, Utah Jazz*G-Brandon Roy, Portland TrailblazersF-Pau Gasol, Los Angeles LakersF-Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas MavericksF-Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder*F-Zach Randolph, Memphis Grizzlies*Alongside them is the perennial lineup of Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Tim Duncan, and Amar'e Stoudemire.The game will be held on February 14 at Dallas Cowboys Stadium. It is reported that the event has sold over 85,000 tickets already, which would be the largest crowd ever at a basketball event.
12 Jan 11 Atlanta Hawks Look To Sweep Boston Celtics Tonight
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesAtlanta, GA.At the start of the season there were only three elite eastern teams; nobody would think these teams would get swept. But, a new team has risen to take on the elites and become one of them. The Hawks are now widely considered an elite team.If I were to tell you the Hawks Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
would sweep the Celtics in the regular season before this season started you would call me a liar and have no sense of basketball. While that has not happened yet it just may happen tonight. Atlanta is coming off a tough loss to the Spurs from Wednesday and the Celtics are coming off an even tougher loss last night to the Magic.At the start of the series Boston hosted the Hawks where Atlanta had never won in a long time. The Hawks beat and embarrassed the Celtics at home 97-86. One month later Boston came to Phillips Arena and got kicked out of the Arena 93-85. Just 17 days ago Atlanta went back to the Garden and again stuck it to Boston 102-96.Boston is getting closer to topping the Hawks for the first time this season but still can't find a way to win. This game now has to be considered a big game and a rivalry. In 2007 the Hawks took the Celtics to seven games in the first round of the playoffs, the Celtics would go on to win the NBA title.Last year the Hawks got better, making it into the second round of the playoffs but they still could not beat Boston at Boston.Now they know they can and they know they can play ball with the best teams in the league. Atlanta has their sights set on their first division title since '93, and the first East title since ever. The last time the Hawks played in the NBA Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
championship game was 1961 and that was in the western conference at that time.But before they try to get all of that, Atlanta will look to take down an NBA giant. This sweep would certainly give the Hawks confidence going into later games knowing that they swept an elite team.
would sweep the Celtics in the regular season before this season started you would call me a liar and have no sense of basketball. While that has not happened yet it just may happen tonight. Atlanta is coming off a tough loss to the Spurs from Wednesday and the Celtics are coming off an even tougher loss last night to the Magic.At the start of the series Boston hosted the Hawks where Atlanta had never won in a long time. The Hawks beat and embarrassed the Celtics at home 97-86. One month later Boston came to Phillips Arena and got kicked out of the Arena 93-85. Just 17 days ago Atlanta went back to the Garden and again stuck it to Boston 102-96.Boston is getting closer to topping the Hawks for the first time this season but still can't find a way to win. This game now has to be considered a big game and a rivalry. In 2007 the Hawks took the Celtics to seven games in the first round of the playoffs, the Celtics would go on to win the NBA title.Last year the Hawks got better, making it into the second round of the playoffs but they still could not beat Boston at Boston.Now they know they can and they know they can play ball with the best teams in the league. Atlanta has their sights set on their first division title since '93, and the first East title since ever. The last time the Hawks played in the NBA Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
championship game was 1961 and that was in the western conference at that time.But before they try to get all of that, Atlanta will look to take down an NBA giant. This sweep would certainly give the Hawks confidence going into later games knowing that they swept an elite team.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Shaq vs. Dwight Howard: Who is the Real Superman?
Sam Greenwood/Getty ImagesEver since the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Orlando Magic in the last game before the All-Star Break, media coverage has been centered, among many things, on the nickname battle between Shaq and Dwight Howard.Everyone has their opinions. Either Shaq is being too rash Cleveland Browns jersey
and is being petty, or that he is the original NBA Superman. However, nobody has analyzed, as far as I know, the two players against the Superman persona.So without further ado, I would like to make a final ruling over the nickname battle between the two dominating big men. Superhuman StrengthBoth of these men are ridiculously strong. Howard seems to look stronger because his is more fit and toned, while Shaq, it seems, is just fat. However, when you watch the two play, it is evident that Shaq is the stronger man.When Shaq plays he imposes his will upon other the players trying to defend him, and, as he said, doesn't double-team anybody.Howard, while still one of the strongest players in the league, does not live up to Shaq's level. He can use his body, but doesn't always throw it around like a big man of his stature should.Superman Score: Shaq 1, Howard 0 Super SpeedThis one is a no-brainer. Shaq is old and slow, Howard is young and fast (for a big man that is).Superman Score: Shaq 1, Howard 1 Superstrong SkinSuperman's skin can stop bullets. Dwight Howard's skin can't even take it when Shaq is angry at him.After Shaq's outburst following the Cavalier-Magic game last week, Howard's response was less than inspiring. When he could have, and maybe should have, stood up and proclaimed the Dallas Cowboys jersey
name for himself, he backed down. Howard downplayed the whole thing, and to me came off as upset that one of his childhood heroes was angry at him.Howard had the opportunity to stand up to Shaq's bullying, yet he recoiled and relinquished the nickname that he is obviously fond of.Superman Score: Shaq 2, Howard 1 FlyingWe all saw Dwight Howard's explosive performance at the dunk contest in the past few years. Anyone is crazy to think that Shaq, at any point in his career, could jump as far as Howard did in his second dunk at the 2008 dunk contest (one that I have dubbed "The Thrunk" )Superman Score: Shaq 2, Howard 2 Interplanetary TravelAs far as I know, there is only one player in the history of the NBA that was ever capable of traveling to other planets (whether it be real or fake) and that is Darryl Dawkins. Denver Broncos jersey
No points awarded for this round.So, as you can see, this is even more convoluted as before. So as a tiebreaker, we will have to look at head-to-head match-ups. Since Howard entered the league in 2004, Shaq has won eight games where both centers played, Howard has won six.So, ladies and gentlemen, without further ado I pronounce Shaq your NBA Superman, at least for now.
and is being petty, or that he is the original NBA Superman. However, nobody has analyzed, as far as I know, the two players against the Superman persona.So without further ado, I would like to make a final ruling over the nickname battle between the two dominating big men. Superhuman StrengthBoth of these men are ridiculously strong. Howard seems to look stronger because his is more fit and toned, while Shaq, it seems, is just fat. However, when you watch the two play, it is evident that Shaq is the stronger man.When Shaq plays he imposes his will upon other the players trying to defend him, and, as he said, doesn't double-team anybody.Howard, while still one of the strongest players in the league, does not live up to Shaq's level. He can use his body, but doesn't always throw it around like a big man of his stature should.Superman Score: Shaq 1, Howard 0 Super SpeedThis one is a no-brainer. Shaq is old and slow, Howard is young and fast (for a big man that is).Superman Score: Shaq 1, Howard 1 Superstrong SkinSuperman's skin can stop bullets. Dwight Howard's skin can't even take it when Shaq is angry at him.After Shaq's outburst following the Cavalier-Magic game last week, Howard's response was less than inspiring. When he could have, and maybe should have, stood up and proclaimed the Dallas Cowboys jersey
name for himself, he backed down. Howard downplayed the whole thing, and to me came off as upset that one of his childhood heroes was angry at him.Howard had the opportunity to stand up to Shaq's bullying, yet he recoiled and relinquished the nickname that he is obviously fond of.Superman Score: Shaq 2, Howard 1 FlyingWe all saw Dwight Howard's explosive performance at the dunk contest in the past few years. Anyone is crazy to think that Shaq, at any point in his career, could jump as far as Howard did in his second dunk at the 2008 dunk contest (one that I have dubbed "The Thrunk" )Superman Score: Shaq 2, Howard 2 Interplanetary TravelAs far as I know, there is only one player in the history of the NBA that was ever capable of traveling to other planets (whether it be real or fake) and that is Darryl Dawkins. Denver Broncos jersey
No points awarded for this round.So, as you can see, this is even more convoluted as before. So as a tiebreaker, we will have to look at head-to-head match-ups. Since Howard entered the league in 2004, Shaq has won eight games where both centers played, Howard has won six.So, ladies and gentlemen, without further ado I pronounce Shaq your NBA Superman, at least for now.
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Breakdown of a Bad Break: Cavaliers Adjust to the Loss of Shaquille O'Neal
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThe news reverberated not only in Northeast Ohio Sunday, but throughout the NBA.Shaquille ONeal right thumb injury isn just significant, as TNT David Aldridge so accurately reported just minutes after it happened Thursday night in Boston. It seriousas in requiring surgery, and a lengthy recuperation period of six to nine weeks.With seven weeks remaining in the regular season, it means the Cleveland Cavaliers will finish the year without their starting center. Hell likely make it back in time for the playoffs, but an exact timetable won be known Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
until after the surgery.Combined with the Cavs' recent trade that leaves them, at least for now, without Zydrunas Ilgauskas, the impact is even more significant.Anderson Varejao, most comfortable as a supersub power forward, slides into the pivot to assume ONeal role in the middle.How the loss of ONeal will affect the Cavaliers, pro and con, won immediately be known. Here are some of the potential positives and negatives that could result from Shaq pending absence from the lineup.Con: The Cavaliers suddenly have a void in the middle that will be difficult to offset.In just two weeks, Cleveland has gone from one of the biggest teams in the league to one of the smallest. For a time, it leaves them vulnerable against more powerful centersbut really, how many of those are there?They play Boston twice more, but have shown they can handle the Celtics without Shaq (or Ilgauskas). Andrew Bogut of the Bucks is a skilled big man. Brook Lopez of New Jersey continues to improve, but is a rookie.Dwight Howard and the Magic don reappear on the Cavs schedule until the next-to-last game of the season. By then, Shaq and Ilgauskas may be back.Pro: Varejao will gain valuable experience as a starting center.There no question he is most comfortable coming off the bench as the supersub at power forward. Varejao often catches teams napping with his constant hustle at both ends of the floor.It the only way he knows how to play, so that will continue. But hell also have to adjust to the nuances of the center position and learn to bang bodies with the best the league has to offer.Not only will this help the Cavaliers this year and in the playoffs, it will prove valuable in future seasons when the era of Shaq and Z is over in Cleveland.Con: Shaq injury may disrupt the team established chemistry.As the season has progressed, so has ONeal. Early returns on his presence in the Cavs lineup weren favorable, but Shaq gradually proved doubters wrong.He contributed solid numbers and an even more solid defensive presence in the middle, typically playing about half of each game.Of equal importance, however, was the way his teammates had adjusted to his style of play.Similar adjustments wererequired after Ilgauskas departure. The team lost three in a row before winning their last three.It will take a few games to see how the Cavaliers handle not having a pure center on the floor. If Ilgauskas chooses to return in March, the Cavs still have 11 games to play before he is available.Critics of the Ilgauskas trade pointed to the Cavaliers remarkable team chemistry as a reason to Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
have left well enough alone. With Shaq now sidelined as well, the team resiliency will be put to the test.Pro: The Cavs will test-drive a smaller, faster lineup.The Shaq doubters will have their day in courtor at least, on itas Cleveland will be forced to play small.ONeal was obtained primarily to offset the bigger, more physical teams who might give the Cavs trouble in the playoffs. Size isn always the issue, however. Still, when you have experienced big men like Shaq and Ilgauskas in your lineup, you play to their strengths.Now, with neither of them there for the time being, there nothing to prevent Mike Brown from running an up-tempo offense.Charles Barkley has called Brown out many times on TNT, questioning why the Cavaliers don run more. He claims it the best approach when you have a player like LeBron James on your team.Now, well see. If the smaller, faster Cavs perform well, Brown will have discovered yet another weapon to throw at opponents in the postseason.Con: Conditioning could be a problem for the Cavaliers come playoff time.With ONeal out for an extended period, will he remain in shape? Much was made of his playing condition at the start of the season, andShaq himself said he had worked during the offseason to be ready for the rigors of 82 games and the playoffs.Brown had been careful all season with ONeal minutes, and the system seemed to be working. However, six weeks or more of recuperation time will require an ongoing conditioning program if ONeal is to be game-ready come April.The same is true for Ilgauskas. Should he choose to return to the Cavs, hell have been idle for a month. Conditioning while they wait will be of utmost importance to both players effectiveness once they return to action.Pro: Dividing playing time just got easier for Mike Brown.One of the real concerns for the Cavs coach has been finding enough minutes to go around, particularly at the power forward position.J.J. Hickson had been the starter most of the season, with Varejao coming off the bench. The presence of Jamison has sent Hickson to the bench. With the recent activation of Leon Powe from the injured list, the Cavs had a glut of power forwards.However, with Varejao at center, Brown will use a rotation of his big men to fill both positions. He views them as interchangeable in Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
the Cavaliers offense. This will be a good test of that theory.Seldom-used Darnell Jackson may find his status changing as Brown looks to fill the void left by ONeal and Ilgauskas.Injuries are a fact of life in professional sports. Theyre also the variable that can completely alter a season.The Cavaliers proved earlier this year that they could make the necessary adjustments when Mo Williams, Delonte West and Jamario Moon missed significant amounts of playing time.Now theyand the rest of the NBAwill see if theyre able to do the same while ONeal is on the mend.
until after the surgery.Combined with the Cavs' recent trade that leaves them, at least for now, without Zydrunas Ilgauskas, the impact is even more significant.Anderson Varejao, most comfortable as a supersub power forward, slides into the pivot to assume ONeal role in the middle.How the loss of ONeal will affect the Cavaliers, pro and con, won immediately be known. Here are some of the potential positives and negatives that could result from Shaq pending absence from the lineup.Con: The Cavaliers suddenly have a void in the middle that will be difficult to offset.In just two weeks, Cleveland has gone from one of the biggest teams in the league to one of the smallest. For a time, it leaves them vulnerable against more powerful centersbut really, how many of those are there?They play Boston twice more, but have shown they can handle the Celtics without Shaq (or Ilgauskas). Andrew Bogut of the Bucks is a skilled big man. Brook Lopez of New Jersey continues to improve, but is a rookie.Dwight Howard and the Magic don reappear on the Cavs schedule until the next-to-last game of the season. By then, Shaq and Ilgauskas may be back.Pro: Varejao will gain valuable experience as a starting center.There no question he is most comfortable coming off the bench as the supersub at power forward. Varejao often catches teams napping with his constant hustle at both ends of the floor.It the only way he knows how to play, so that will continue. But hell also have to adjust to the nuances of the center position and learn to bang bodies with the best the league has to offer.Not only will this help the Cavaliers this year and in the playoffs, it will prove valuable in future seasons when the era of Shaq and Z is over in Cleveland.Con: Shaq injury may disrupt the team established chemistry.As the season has progressed, so has ONeal. Early returns on his presence in the Cavs lineup weren favorable, but Shaq gradually proved doubters wrong.He contributed solid numbers and an even more solid defensive presence in the middle, typically playing about half of each game.Of equal importance, however, was the way his teammates had adjusted to his style of play.Similar adjustments wererequired after Ilgauskas departure. The team lost three in a row before winning their last three.It will take a few games to see how the Cavaliers handle not having a pure center on the floor. If Ilgauskas chooses to return in March, the Cavs still have 11 games to play before he is available.Critics of the Ilgauskas trade pointed to the Cavaliers remarkable team chemistry as a reason to Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
have left well enough alone. With Shaq now sidelined as well, the team resiliency will be put to the test.Pro: The Cavs will test-drive a smaller, faster lineup.The Shaq doubters will have their day in courtor at least, on itas Cleveland will be forced to play small.ONeal was obtained primarily to offset the bigger, more physical teams who might give the Cavs trouble in the playoffs. Size isn always the issue, however. Still, when you have experienced big men like Shaq and Ilgauskas in your lineup, you play to their strengths.Now, with neither of them there for the time being, there nothing to prevent Mike Brown from running an up-tempo offense.Charles Barkley has called Brown out many times on TNT, questioning why the Cavaliers don run more. He claims it the best approach when you have a player like LeBron James on your team.Now, well see. If the smaller, faster Cavs perform well, Brown will have discovered yet another weapon to throw at opponents in the postseason.Con: Conditioning could be a problem for the Cavaliers come playoff time.With ONeal out for an extended period, will he remain in shape? Much was made of his playing condition at the start of the season, andShaq himself said he had worked during the offseason to be ready for the rigors of 82 games and the playoffs.Brown had been careful all season with ONeal minutes, and the system seemed to be working. However, six weeks or more of recuperation time will require an ongoing conditioning program if ONeal is to be game-ready come April.The same is true for Ilgauskas. Should he choose to return to the Cavs, hell have been idle for a month. Conditioning while they wait will be of utmost importance to both players effectiveness once they return to action.Pro: Dividing playing time just got easier for Mike Brown.One of the real concerns for the Cavs coach has been finding enough minutes to go around, particularly at the power forward position.J.J. Hickson had been the starter most of the season, with Varejao coming off the bench. The presence of Jamison has sent Hickson to the bench. With the recent activation of Leon Powe from the injured list, the Cavs had a glut of power forwards.However, with Varejao at center, Brown will use a rotation of his big men to fill both positions. He views them as interchangeable in Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
the Cavaliers offense. This will be a good test of that theory.Seldom-used Darnell Jackson may find his status changing as Brown looks to fill the void left by ONeal and Ilgauskas.Injuries are a fact of life in professional sports. Theyre also the variable that can completely alter a season.The Cavaliers proved earlier this year that they could make the necessary adjustments when Mo Williams, Delonte West and Jamario Moon missed significant amounts of playing time.Now theyand the rest of the NBAwill see if theyre able to do the same while ONeal is on the mend.
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 2010 NBA Playoffs: Can Charlotte Defeat the East's Top Three Teams?
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesI will be the first to admit, the idea of the Charlotte Bobcats qualifying for the 2010 NBA postseason was a foreign one to me, and even though I felt the Bobcats had taken positive steps, the playoffs still seemed like a long shot.Hiring Larry Brown as coach was the first step, and acquiring Stephen Jackson has proved to be the move which has spurred Charlotte from the throes of mediocrity to the cusp of their first NBA playoff berth in team history.The young, athletic Bobcats have bought into Brown's Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
defensive philosophy, and the level of discipline the team displays is also a reflection of their coach and his rigid standards on the court.Brown doesn't mind if a player has baggage in his personal life, because he feels if discipline is learned on the basketball court, then it might seep over into a player's personal life.Brown's approach has had varying degrees of success, but he has always established open lines of communication with his team, and is not afraid to both encourage and admonish a player for his performance.He is the ultimate teacher and the Bobcats have grown into apt pupils, grasping onto Brown's instruction and riding it to the sixth position in the Eastern Conference.With only a few weeks left in the regular season people in Charlotte are now speaking as if the Bobcats' path to the postseason is sealed, and the only question now is, how far can they go once they get there.This may be a presumptuous line of thought, but considering how the teams beneath Charlotte in the standings are actually regressing, it iseasy to see why people in the Queen City are excited about their basketball team.If the season ended today Charlotte's first round opponent would be the Atlanta Hawks, a team with a very similar roster to the Bobcats'.Both teams have superior shooting guards in Jackson and Atlanta's Joe Johnson, while Charlotte's Gerald Wallace and the Hawks' Josh Smith are both players whose impact can be felt in nearly every category in the stat book.Mike Bibby has an experience advantage over Raymond Felton at the point guard position, but Felton is athletically superior, a better defender, and is quicker than Bibby.Both rosters are deep with talented players like Al Horford, Marvin Williams, and Jamal Crawford for Atlanta, and Boris Diaw, Tyrus Thomas, and Tyson Chandler for Charlotte.Crawford is the one player Charlotte cannot match in terms of point production from the bench, and although Crawford may give the Hawks a scoring edge, the Bobcats' discipline could be the determining factor in a playoff series.Atlanta is notorious for their inconsistency on both ends of the floor and their tendency to make bad decisions in pressure-filled moments, which are found in abundance in the postseason.I would be inclined to take the steady leadership of Brown over the playoff Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
experience of Atlanta, because in a close series, the composure and discipline Brown brings to his team will win out.If Charlotte were to defeat Atlanta, Orlando would likely be their next opponent, and the Magic cause the same type of match-up problems for the Bobcats as they did for the Cleveland Cavaliers in last year's postseason.The Orlando scheme is simple, but effective. Place Dwight Howard in the paint, and surround him on the perimeter with jump shooters who have a particular taste for the three-point shot.Having four perimeter players on the court makes it hard to double Howard in the paint, and the fact that all of those players are actually good scorers mean there is little chance to slide down or even offer token assistance against Howard.The only chance Charlotte would have against Orlando would be to offer strong resistance on Howard with one player and tighten up the perimeter on everyone else.This strategy worked in a recent game between the two teams, and while Howard did have a monster game with 27 points and 17 rebounds, Charlotte's defense on the rest of theMagic was effective enough to prevent anyone else from hurting them.I'm not sure this would work over the duration of a seven game series, but it does represent Charlotte's best chance for success against a seasoned Orlando team, seeking consecutive NBA Finals appearances.If the Bobcats could make the Magic disappear, the mighty Cleveland Cavaliers would be next in Charlotte's path, and you could pretty much throw out Charlotte's victory in the regular season series.Like the recent victory over Orlando, Charlotte has a blueprint for how to defeat LeBron and his Cavaliers, but making that strategy hold up over the course of a seven game series is an entirely different task.Cleveland lost last season's 2009 Eastern Conference Finals, and the experience has made them hungry for a chance to return to that stage and redeem themselves.The Cavaliers also have the game's most complete player in James, and he embraces pressure moments on the big stage, while the Bobcats would be new to the whole playoff phenomenon.If Charlotte were able to somehow defeat Orlando and Atlanta, this is the point that their hypothetical journey would likely end, because the Cavaliers' combination of experience and James would be too much to overcome.In all honesty, it is doubtful Charlotte would be able to surpass Orlando, and if they did defeat Atlanta that feat would leave them ill-prepared for the tasks ahead, because they would likely become trappedReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
in the moment.Charlotte hasn't had an NBA playoff game in years, and this Bobcats' team has given the city hope that a future postseason game is in the near future.Under those circumstances one can be forgiven for dreaming a little when it comes to postseason upsets, and who knows, once the playoffs begin anything is possible, right?
defensive philosophy, and the level of discipline the team displays is also a reflection of their coach and his rigid standards on the court.Brown doesn't mind if a player has baggage in his personal life, because he feels if discipline is learned on the basketball court, then it might seep over into a player's personal life.Brown's approach has had varying degrees of success, but he has always established open lines of communication with his team, and is not afraid to both encourage and admonish a player for his performance.He is the ultimate teacher and the Bobcats have grown into apt pupils, grasping onto Brown's instruction and riding it to the sixth position in the Eastern Conference.With only a few weeks left in the regular season people in Charlotte are now speaking as if the Bobcats' path to the postseason is sealed, and the only question now is, how far can they go once they get there.This may be a presumptuous line of thought, but considering how the teams beneath Charlotte in the standings are actually regressing, it iseasy to see why people in the Queen City are excited about their basketball team.If the season ended today Charlotte's first round opponent would be the Atlanta Hawks, a team with a very similar roster to the Bobcats'.Both teams have superior shooting guards in Jackson and Atlanta's Joe Johnson, while Charlotte's Gerald Wallace and the Hawks' Josh Smith are both players whose impact can be felt in nearly every category in the stat book.Mike Bibby has an experience advantage over Raymond Felton at the point guard position, but Felton is athletically superior, a better defender, and is quicker than Bibby.Both rosters are deep with talented players like Al Horford, Marvin Williams, and Jamal Crawford for Atlanta, and Boris Diaw, Tyrus Thomas, and Tyson Chandler for Charlotte.Crawford is the one player Charlotte cannot match in terms of point production from the bench, and although Crawford may give the Hawks a scoring edge, the Bobcats' discipline could be the determining factor in a playoff series.Atlanta is notorious for their inconsistency on both ends of the floor and their tendency to make bad decisions in pressure-filled moments, which are found in abundance in the postseason.I would be inclined to take the steady leadership of Brown over the playoff Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
experience of Atlanta, because in a close series, the composure and discipline Brown brings to his team will win out.If Charlotte were to defeat Atlanta, Orlando would likely be their next opponent, and the Magic cause the same type of match-up problems for the Bobcats as they did for the Cleveland Cavaliers in last year's postseason.The Orlando scheme is simple, but effective. Place Dwight Howard in the paint, and surround him on the perimeter with jump shooters who have a particular taste for the three-point shot.Having four perimeter players on the court makes it hard to double Howard in the paint, and the fact that all of those players are actually good scorers mean there is little chance to slide down or even offer token assistance against Howard.The only chance Charlotte would have against Orlando would be to offer strong resistance on Howard with one player and tighten up the perimeter on everyone else.This strategy worked in a recent game between the two teams, and while Howard did have a monster game with 27 points and 17 rebounds, Charlotte's defense on the rest of theMagic was effective enough to prevent anyone else from hurting them.I'm not sure this would work over the duration of a seven game series, but it does represent Charlotte's best chance for success against a seasoned Orlando team, seeking consecutive NBA Finals appearances.If the Bobcats could make the Magic disappear, the mighty Cleveland Cavaliers would be next in Charlotte's path, and you could pretty much throw out Charlotte's victory in the regular season series.Like the recent victory over Orlando, Charlotte has a blueprint for how to defeat LeBron and his Cavaliers, but making that strategy hold up over the course of a seven game series is an entirely different task.Cleveland lost last season's 2009 Eastern Conference Finals, and the experience has made them hungry for a chance to return to that stage and redeem themselves.The Cavaliers also have the game's most complete player in James, and he embraces pressure moments on the big stage, while the Bobcats would be new to the whole playoff phenomenon.If Charlotte were able to somehow defeat Orlando and Atlanta, this is the point that their hypothetical journey would likely end, because the Cavaliers' combination of experience and James would be too much to overcome.In all honesty, it is doubtful Charlotte would be able to surpass Orlando, and if they did defeat Atlanta that feat would leave them ill-prepared for the tasks ahead, because they would likely become trappedReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
in the moment.Charlotte hasn't had an NBA playoff game in years, and this Bobcats' team has given the city hope that a future postseason game is in the near future.Under those circumstances one can be forgiven for dreaming a little when it comes to postseason upsets, and who knows, once the playoffs begin anything is possible, right?
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