Clutch - Fargo - September 29, 2010

Clutch Playing At The Venue in Fargo, 9-29-2010

Clutch played at The Venue this week in Fargo, ND on one of their one-offs from the BLS show that Clutch is currently on.  I was so happy to hear that Clutch would be playing without BLS and then even more excited to hear that one of these dates was scheduled to happen in Fargo!  I was quite surprised as well because the last time Clutch came to Fargo the crowd was fairly scant.  I was curious to see how large of a crowd would be there for this show and considering it was on a Wednesday night (a school night) I didn't think it bode well for attendance, but the crowd was considerably larger than their last show here...but this show was also a 21 and up show, whereas before it was an all ages show and no alcohol.  I definitely liked that it was 21 and over and alcohol was permitted...

This show has quickly raced up the list of one of the best Clutch shows I have ever been too.  Two of my all-time favorite songs, Regulator and Spacegrass, were both played that night ... very rarely have I heard Spacegrass, so that in itself was a treat, but Regulator is such an awesome tune that I could hear Clutch play that song on repeat for many, many hours...

I took a lot of pictures and you can see them all here.  Phone cameras and concerts never seem to work well together...but the pics seem better than some and I tried.  I also got some pretty good videos that I am trying to get off my phone and encode ... I will post those if I am ever successful.

Clutch took the stage about 10:30ish and played until after midnight ... the crowd, I felt, gave a good 'true encore' type cheer after the band finished their set and walked off the stage...the crowd continued to cheer, loudly, and even a chant of "Clutch" broke out....many times, these days, when the band walks off the stage people just turn around and walk out the door....not that night, though.

The sound was awesome and the band sounded great.  It almost seems like such a surreal experience for me now because it seemed to go by all so fast...but it seems like everything that is a good time seems like it only lasted for moments while the rest of life continues to drag on....

Again, might be one of the greatest Clutch shows I have ever been too...

Chargers Bumble, Stumble, Fumble And Lose

The San Diego Chargers are starting the 2010 season like they have started most of their more recent seasons...very poorly.  The Chargers fall to 1-2 after losing to the Seattle Seahawks yesterday and the Chargers most certainly lost more than the Seahawks won.

The Chargers fumbled the ball 3 times and didn't recover one, the Chargers have been fumbling a lot already this year.  And the Charger special teams are a complete joke.  The Chargers gave up 2 kickoff td returns to Leon Washington who, in this game alone, became Seattle's all-time return kickoff return leader.  In week 1 the Chargers gave up a 92 yard punt return for a touchdown to the Chiefs, setting a new Chiefs record...one doesn't need to look too hard to see that the special teams play by the Chargers is a glaring weakness.

The Charger defense did play well, but the Seahawks didn't have to do much to win this game with the special teams scores...the Chargers, after having to rally to tie the game, the Seahawk offense didn't even have to take the field as the Seahawks run the kickoff back for a touchdown to take the lead and eventually win the game.

The Charger offense has shown some bad traits that plagued the team last season as well...delay of game penalties and false start penalties...always, seemingly, at the worst times.  I would have thought that the team could have worked on something to remedy that problem in the offseason, but that doesn't seem to be the case.

And one final note regarding special teams...not only is the Charger special team coverage horrible, but Darren Sproles and the Charger return team certainly hasn't been all that impressive either...it is both sides of the special teams ball that the Chargers are getting beat on.

Phillip Rivers had a career day, 455 yards passing, but primarily out of necessity...and overall the offense - if you exclude the turnovers - was able to be effective.  The Chargers just need to limit their mistakes and they would have routed the Seahawks.

I'm With AJ

So the Vincent Jackson drama heated up and reached a boiling point yesterday when holdout receiver Vincent Jackson was not traded to another team and the reason was because no team was willing to give Charger GM AJ Smith what he wanted for Jackson, namely a second and another pick (4th round or higher).

AJ Smith has had the label of 'hardass' for many years and a tough negotiator...and I think what people don't realize is that AJ is actually upfront with what he really wants and doesn't budge...AJ, for the sake of actually going through the process of "negotiations" should have high-balled everyone, ask for first rounders or whatever and then negotiate down to what he really wants.  AJ's tactic, though, is golden...a team doesn't even need to consider calling AJ and nor will Smith even have to lift the phone up if the team isn't willing to accept the primary intentions of smith when working a trade.

So after Jackson wasn't traded media and fans are quick to lash out at AJ and exclaim at what a fool he was for not accepting less and moving Jackson to another team, but I am not one of those people.  I think Vincent Jackson made all the wrong moves this offseason and could likely pay dearly for his decisions.  Instead of playing out his contract and getting paid over $3 million, it sounds as if Jackson may sit the entire season and with the lockout looming for next year, would essentially not playing or paid next season and it would be 2012 when he would be looking for a new team and contract...and what team is going to line up to sign you then with 2 years removed from your breakout season and still the 2 DUI baggage.

But people think that AJ should have bent and traded Jackson to whatever team was offering the Chargers the best deal and not what AJ thinks is the best deal.  Again, not me.  Jackson was under contract to play for the Chargers and he decided that he would rather not play for the Chargers (or anyone else) unless he got paid a lot more money.  The Chargers hold his contract and all the cards in this dispute.  Why should the Chargers get penalized by accepting whatever they could get for Jackson when the team has done nothing wrong and the player is just demanding more money?  If that was the case in the NFL then players would be holding their team's ransom as much as they could.

I have not agreed with some of AJ's moves in the past, but with both Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeil's holdouts, I have supported his actions 100%.  With Shawne Merriman, I wish he would have done the same but let Merriman sign his original tender and join the team, when he was the least of the 3 holdouts I thought the Chargers needed...

Chargers Destroy Jags

The San Diego Chargers and the Jacksonville Jagaurs had a wild first half with each team turning the ball over multiple times. The Chargers cured their turnover problems but the Jaguars continued with their ball control issues and ended up with six total turnovers (4 interceptions and 2 lost fumbles). The result would be as one would expect...the Chargers easily beat the Jaguars this past Sunday 38-13. The game was out of hand early and the Jaguars scored their only touchdown in the fourth quarters when it didn't matter.

The Charger defense had its way on this day...pressuring Jaguar QB David Garrard all day and picking him off early and often. Antoine Cason had two interceptions with his first one being a dandy.

Charger rookie runningback Ryan Matthews left the game with an ankle injury...early word is that it isn't too severe. His backup, Mike Tolbert, had a banner day. Tolbert is a "power back" that plowed his way up and down the field. When Tolbert was gaining nice chunks of yardage, Philip Rivers was passing the ball around. Antonio Gates had another great day and I don't know how anyone could place any other tight end in the NFL higher than him...which I think has been the case for several years now. The guy is always consistently good.

The realization of this win is that sure, it is a good win but the Jaguars are a team the Chargers should beat if they are going to be mentioned as a top-caliber team...unfortunately they will never be considered a real contender until they can do something in the post season.

Chargers travel to Seattle to play the Seahawks this week...Jaguars beat the Broncos in week 1, Broncos beat the Seahawks in week 2 while the Chargers beat the Jaguars...Doing the math by correlation would suggest the Chargers should beat the Seahawks this weekend...

Chargers Sloppy Play Matches Sloppy Conditions

Week 1 in the NFL concluded with the San Diego Chargers playing in a newly renovated Arrowhead Stadium against the Kansas City Chiefs and it was a wet one.

The Chiefs took advantage of the Chargers mistakes and poor play in the first half to score all the points they needed, leading 21-7. The Chargers, who led time of possession and total yards bumbled about the field to only add another score and come up short - literally, game concludes with the Chargers inside the 10 and unable to convert on a fourth down - and lose 21-14.

The new Charger rookie runningback that has many abuzz helped the Chiefs out more than play against them. After a big run Ryan Matthews fumbled the ball and set up a Chiefs score. On another play while trying to get into position to provide pass protection for Rivers he knocked the ball out of Rivers' hands, almost leading to a turnover. But it wasn't all Matthews fault...

The special teams, for the Chargers, which has usually looked good was awful and even gave up the longest punt return for a touchdown for both franchises respectively. The Chargers still exhibit many of the bad traits I had seen from last year...calling a time out on a crucial long yard play then come back and 2 plays later get a delay of game.

The Charger defense is what the Charger defense has been in the past...able to stop teams for most of the game but there will be one, two...maybe 3 plays where the other team will totally catch the defense off guard...and completely. Jamaal Charles for the Chiefs reeled of a 50 plus yard td run, untouched with Charger players looking laughable in pursuit.

The Charger wide receivers...slipped and fell most of the night. Naanee caught the Chiefs napping and Rivers hit him for a wide open touchdown with 2:23 in the third quarter and that was the end of the scoring. Gates was by far the most impressive Charger offensive weapon last night and I was pleased to see him in good form already.

Rivers, too, looked good. Faced a fair amount of pressure all night, was sacked and besides the Matthews incident, Rivers also misplayed a shotgun snap that almost resulted in a Charger turnover, but overall Rivers did a solid job considering, again, the playing conditions.

There is no doubt that the playing conditions were horrible last night in Arrowhead. Even thought the stadium was literally brand new many Chief fans left at halftime...The Chargers had a great opportunity to win the game last night but just couldn't play consistently good when needed.

First Smartphone - Droid X

I have finally taken the plunge...I got my first "smartphone" this past week, a Droid X. Why is this such a big deal for me?

Well, for starters, I have been very "frugile" with my cell phone needs ... I have paid only for the cheapest package and have never once even exceeded the call limits. I also had held off on getting a smartphone because there really didn't seem like a phone that used the internet well and the internet, also, didn't seem like it was very "mobile friendly". But with the new Droid phones out like the Droid X that has all changed...

What makes the Droid X (and other Droid phones) appealing is all the apps a person can get for the phone and in turn, when you want to run said app, you simply touch it and it is running. With it being ran on Google's OS, which is open source, there are a ton of free apps and more appearing daily...

I already love having Pandora on my phone...I use to have an MP3 player hooked up to my car's stereo, now I use my phone and listen to "satellite radio" from Pandora as I drive. Another cool feature is that it has Google Maps and Navigation built into the phone for free...so you essentially have a car GPS system at no extra charge...unfortunately, I live in a place where I don't need GPS...but I can hardly wait to plan a trip to a large metro area just to see how lost that can get me...

I really haven't left the house with the phone but that will change this weekend when I go out with my friends to watch football...it will be great to track my fantasy teams and get scores...but, as with all phones that seem to do a lot, it will likely drain the battery of the phone and the more a person wants to use their phone's features, the shorter the time that the phone can stay powered up and the next thing you know you won't even be able to receive or make phone calls because of a dead battery. I've heard people buying pocket rapid chargers or keeping their phone plugged in as much as possible... I'm thinking of just getting a second battery and keeping that in my car to swap as needed...but I'll see how long the phone will last with my usage and decide from there.

I also think I can finally "use" Twitter the way it was meant to be...that is as a portable medium. I never had a device that I could quickly fire off a "Tweet". I would have to go to my computer, goto twitter, login and then post my Tweet...the process was just to cumbersome to be used effectively by me. So for starters, I pared down who I was following (just so I don't get a new Tweet every 2 seconds) but can foresee that list growing as I discover people that I do indeed want to "follow". But the end result is that I likely will be "Tweeting" more often...not sure who cares or not, but I figured I'd swim a little deeper in that pool...or at least that is what I am intending to do...I often intend to do a lot of things and never do.

And many people have had bad experiences with their cell phone provider, I have had just the opposite with Verizon Wireless. I have been with Verizon for about 6 years now and have not had 1 lick of trouble. I, at one time, thought that the Verizon store was the best place to get my phone and accessories...now I do it all online. The phone was cheaper online and shipped to me, free, overnight. The Droid X was out of stock and I was originally told that I would get it by September 15th...I got it Sep. 7...over a week early. I have never not had service, I have never had a dropped call and anytime I have had to alter some detail with my plan, it has always been handled very well. Sometimes people regrettably pay for some service and know they are signing up for headaches...I have never been disappointed in handing my money to Verizon for their service.

Charger Thoughts - Week 1

The NFL season is about to start and each year I have posted my prediction(s) for the Chargers...some times more vague than others.

But I have become a Charger cynic...the Chargers, in the 30 years I have been a fan, have never lived up to expectations and have only disappointed. Last year's season was the final straw for me. I refuse to get my hopes up and make bold predictions...so my prediction for the 2010 Charger Team will be the same for every Charger team until further notice: I predict they will disappoint me...again. Now whether or not they disappoint me in the playoffs or not has yet to be seen, but looking at their schedule and their team..the Chargers look like they should win the AFC West again.

Chargers open their season against the Kansas City Chiefs, who just remodeled Arrowhead Stadium, on Monday night. The Chargers have started slow the last few years and almost lost to Oakland in last years' season opener. The Chiefs will be fired up and it should be no surprise if they win the game. If anything the last few seasons have proven is that the first 4-5 games aren't really that important so I won't put a lot of stock in game 1.

Last Meaningless Game Tonight, Season Soon To Kick Off

The Chargers play their final preseason game tonight against the 49'ers. It's probably doubtful that any of the starters, with maybe the exception for rookies, will see much if any playing time. I'm not so sure on taking 2 preseason games away to add 2 regular season games, but in my opinion, the last preseason game, as it is now, is a complete waste of time.

So what, if anything, have I learned from this preseason that might better assist me in gauging their success is there? Really, just a few broad observations...

Runningback: Ryan Matthews looks good...but there has been more than 1 preseason wonder that flames out in a hurry. What I do like is the fact that the Chargers had him signed and in camp early enough so that he has had ample time to learn plays and the offense. He looks like he has quick feet and determination. Against the Saints he was hit by two defenders and as they fell to the ground, he continued to churn forward. I think with Darren Sproles complementing him in the backfield, it could be a dangerous combination for the Chargers.

Rivers: I really feel as if I should make a comment on Rivers but there really is no need to do so...he is everything that he has been in the past and continues to demonstrate that he is a winner. If he goes down the Chargers season is likely a short one.

Holdouts: Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeil both continue their hold out...by all appearances they will be sitting until week 7, then on a 3 game team-imposed suspension and could begin playing for the Chargers on week 10...but with incredibly reduced salaries, so I can't believe that they would be playing all that hard for the Chargers. Two players who appear to be pissing away their careers, imo.

Defense: The defense looks like last years...bad. Merriman is doubtful for the season opener, after his holdout he is promptly injured...just like last year and the year before. I've stated it more than once and will do so again...since he got busted for steroids he hasn't been the same player...in fact has only been injured.

By all appearances the Chargers should win the AFC West again...Broncos will likely be swapping QB's at least once next year if they hit any rough patch. The Chiefs still seem to be in some disarray but have gotten some young offensive talent that should see them improve. And many in the media are proclaiming that now that JaMarcus has left Oakland the Raiders will become a threat again...there was no question that last year the Raiders played the Chargers tough, twice, and were able to string together some pretty good wins.

It's the NFL and anything can happen...any team can be one injury away from a disappointing season or a lucky bounce in week 17 that sends a team to the playoffs.

Rivers Continues To Prove To Be A "Winner"

When the Chargers gave QB Philip Rivers a contract extension last season I was delighted with the move because I labeled Rivers a winner at that time. He is a guy that doesn't like to lose...ever. So this last preseason game against the Cowboys, Philip tackled a safety returning a fumble to save a touchdown. Many people would question why Rivers would even try to tackle this guy, let alone run the field to do so...but, again, he is a winner and in the post game interview, Rivers tells you why..."I don't know how you are going to let a guy score. They are still keeping score. I know it's a preseason game, but still."

And to add to my theory, the safety Rivers tackled, Barry Church verified that Rivers is indeed a winner, stating "It showed a lot of heart and a lot of fire. He wants to win. He's a great quarterback and he will win in this game."

Merriman Already Hurt, McNeil Meets With AJ

Shawne Merriman showed up to Charger training camp on Friday and made it through a couple of practices and almost on cue, is hurt. A reoccurring theme of Merriman's since he was caught doping. Those that frequent my blog already know that I am no longer a fan of Merriman and have all but declared his career over. If any of the Charger players that were holding out, I felt that Merriman was the least needed and yet he is the one, hurt, and at Charger camp.

And speaking of Charger holdouts, left tackle, Marcus McNeil met with Charger GM AJ Smith yesterday, alone - no agent. No word if anything substantial came from that meeting...but I have to think it is an indication from McNeil that he does want to play this year. I won't be surprised if we hear that McNeil joins the team before the season started...but of course if AJ refused to bend at all, that may not be the case...but I have to think that the mere gesture, on McNeil's part to meet with AJ in person without an agent, shows that he wants to join the team.

Breaking News (Not): Favre Will Play

Right when I think I know Brett Favre and have him pegged he throws me a curveball...Last year I had guessed that Favre would be in Vikings camp by the 2nd preseason game and he fooled me by showing up a couple weeks early. So this year, thinking I would outfox him, I had guessed he would have roughly that same timetable and report a week or so before the first preseason game...well, unless you live under a rock, we all have heard the glorious news that Favre has graced the Vikings with his presence which would be just before the 2nd preseason game, as I had guessed last year. Well there's always next year to try my luck again. But of course this year's offseason Favre added a new wrinkle to his prima dona attitude. Favre didn't return to Minnesota without a posse, apparently he wanted some Viking bag handlers to carry his luggage and 3 of his Viking 'buds' had to fly down to pick him up.

So in the end, everyone on the planet guessed it right...Favre didn't retire after all and will play again...same as last year and the year before and the year before and the year before, etc...

Merriman To Join Team This Weekend

Reports out of San Diego are that Shawne Merriman is going to join the team this weekend, ending his holdout. I have grown increasingly tired of Shawne Merriman and his antics. Since his positive steroid test Shawne Merriman hasn't been an effective player for the Chargers.

I am unsure as to why Charger GM, AJ Smith, didn't lower Merriman's tender like he did with Vincent Jackson's and Marcus McNeil's. Not to mention Merriman does his best to get his name in the paper by yapping about something or getting into some high profile situations (ie: Tila Tequilla).

Merriman has said how he wants to get on the field to prove himself, that he is working out, literally, non-stop. But now, by all appearances, by him coming into Charger camp after the two-a-days end, shows to me that he is probably just lazy. Playing the game and being athletic superior to others so easily accomplished when you are on the juice. Now that Merriman isn't on the roids he has been injured more than healthy. With no contract after this season I can realistically see this as being the last season we see Shawne Merriman in a Charger uniform, but I wouldn't be surprised if he is out of the NFL by the 2012 season...

On the bright side of things, we will no longer be subjected to one of the lamest 'sack dances' of all time be performed much, if at all, this season or in the future.

Preseason Football - I Care Less Than Usual

It's tough to gauge how little I really care about preseason football from year-to-year but I have to think this year it could be at an all-time low of not caring. There is usually plenty of other reasons to not care about he preseason but this season a couple of new factors help lower any enthusiasm I might have. It has a lot to do with the way the season ended for the Chargers and now that I am completely cynical towards the Chargers hopes, add a few holdouts and that is why I really have a tough time getting 'amped' up for the season.

Anyways, the Chargers play Chicago on Saturday night in their first preseason game...I'll probably DVR it and zip through it just for fun...

Rivers, Gates - Relief Since Tomlinson Left

An interesting article came out this past Monday in the San Diego Union Tribune that had comments from Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates in regards to former star runningback LaDainian Tomlinson. Both Rivers and Gates were respectful towards Tomlinson but both made comments that alluded to the fact that Tomlinson was unhappy with his role with the team, players felt he viewed himself as bigger than the team and that it is almost a relief now that he is gone and players won't have to deal with impressing or pleasing Tomlinson.

My opinion: The comments towards Tomlinson almost match the way he acted once signing with the Jets. I don't want to believe nor do I think that L.T. was always somewhat of a prima-dona, but I think after the 2006 season it may have been the pushing point. He was the league MVP, rushing champ, single-season scoring record holder and on top of the world. People were literally kissing his ass from the time he got out of bed until the time he got back into bed...and then even during his sleep if he so desired. It would be easy for L.T. to go 'soft' and begin to desire some of the diva traits some NFL players are quick to don. I'm just saddened that he did let fame go to his head, that he began to feel as if he deserved more touches. He was a team leader and I can imagine if any leader begins to put themself ahead of the group there can not be much success for either.

Favre: Retiring For 3rd Time...Soon To Unretire

Someone woke Brett Favre up and told him he forgot to officially retire this offseason so he made sure to at least start the rumor that he is going to retire again. So it will only be a matter of time before he has his retirement press conference, thanks all his supporters, cry a bit and then in a couple of weeks announce that he will be playing this season.

Here's my guess as to what is really happening...and mind you, this is just my guess based on Favre's past...

Brad Childress, coach of the Vikings, went to visit with Brett last week...as was well reported. Childress must have tried to coax Brett into showing up to Viking camp sooner rather than later...well, we all have learned that no one will tell Brett Favre when he will grace the Vikings with his presence so he then told Chilly to f-off and if he doesn't like it then he won't play at all. So now Brett will announce his retirement, the Vikes will come groveling back and Favre will be playing for the Vikes in a short time...seems to me like this is just a standard Favre move...

2010 NFL Season: First Impressions

The 2010 NFL season is fast approaching and with it, so does the 'buzz' of the sports media world. Being a Charger fan, I have regretfully accepted the fact that I will be disappointed by the Chargers, yet again, but that doesn't mean I'm going to enjoy the NFL any less than I ever have. There have been a couple of things this offseason that I wanted to address...

First, the impending lockout next season...what I don't get about this is that the owners and the players are both pretty content on not playing football next season...at least that is the 'buzz' that the major sports media continue to tout. By appearances, it seems to be an accurate assessment and by appearances I mean the players that are holding out and wanting long term deals...essentially to guarantee a paycheck after 2011...whereas teams, and I would say like the Chargers, that knew the 2010 season was a pivotal season and had many of the younger players locked up through the 2010 season ... is it wrong not to feel sorry for these guys who signed a contract and now want a new, longer deal rather than fulfilling their current contract? Not to mention all three of the Charger holdouts (Merriman, Jackson and McNeil) had a $3+ million dollar tender to play this year. Tough to feel sad for these guys who think they deserve more when what they were offered, originally, was plenty...

But I digress...my true point here is that this is just idiotic that the NFL and the NFLPA can't hammer out a deal before a lockout happens. By not playing a season is that really proving a point and if so, what is the point it is proving and who wins? I really don't want to take sides in this debate, but like the most recent NHL labor dispute and stoppage, I sided with the owners who wanted a salary cap whereas the players had originally stated they would never accept a cap of any sort...they eventually caved and the NHL resumed playing. From what I have heard, NFLPA has stated that they wanted a bigger share of profits...under the current agreement the NFLPA gets 51% of the profits already and they want more. The players' reps will come out and state how much money the league and the owners make all on the backs of their athletes and thus they deserve the lion's share of the profit...of course, without the wealth of the owners and the league the players wouldn't be making peanuts ... so at first glance I am leaning towards favoring the owners position...but make no mistake...if a lockout happens, I will blame both sides because both sides allowed the lockout to happen.

Now on to my early thoughts...

Dallas Cowboys hype...I guess I don't know what I missed but for some reason the Dallas Cowboys have become the media's favorite team. I can't turn the sports talk radio station knob fast enough to avoid all the love that is being showered upon the Cowboys. I'm not so sold on the Cowboys and I have two words as to why: Tony Romo. For some reason the media has thrust greatness and composure onto Tony Romo as if has done something to earn such accolades, but he hasn't done jack-squat and I would say, is just the opposite. I compare Tony Romo to Kevin Garnett. A good player at their position...heck, even All-Star caliber, but when the game is on the line these guys want nothing to do with the rock and the bigger the game the more they fold. Sure the Cowboys could be good but they need a different player to step up to lead this team...Tony Romo is not a leader and the media has tried to make him one.

New York Jets hype...with every move the Jets made this offseason - taking 2 Chargers nonetheless, it seemed as if the media had an orgasm. Add to it that the Jets made it to the AFC Championship game (beating an over-rated Charger squad) the Jets, the media and their fans expect nothing less than a Super Bowl trip. I hate to rain on their parade but the Chargers weren't too upset to let Tomlinson or Cromartie go to the Jets. Tomlinson coming off his worst season as a pro in a steady decline from his career high in 2006 and Cromartie, who is seen as 'soft' and will often avoid contact and easily confused with fast moving offenses are both moves that really shouldn't add any stock to the Jets but yet does...for some reason.

Indianapolis Colts hype...I guess it really shouldn't be 'hype' because a person could pick the Colts for the Super Bowl every year for the past 8 or so years and be right almost half the time. What it really proves is how good Peyton Manning is and how much he can carry that team. The Colts just need to get their defense into shape for a playoff run and they always could be a factor if Manning is taking the snaps.

Favrewatch 2010 - more subdued this year...probably because everyone knows that Favre will be coming back. If he would come out to say he is going to retire and not play...HOLY SHIT! ESPN and the rest of the world would truly be shocked...but with the lockout likely next season, he might as well wrap up his career with one more season...hopefully he ends it with an interception like he has ended more than one of his recent seasons...

Chargers Sign Matthews: 5 years, $25 Million

A rarity for the Chargers...their first round pick in this past draft, runningback Ryan Matthews, has signed a 5 year, $25 million contract. I can not recall the last time the Chargers had their first round pick signed before the preseason...but with Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeil holding out, the Chargers probably need to sign someone to prove that they aren't totally cheap and willing to spend some dough...reasonably...

Remembering Don Coryell

Don Coryell, former head coach of the Chargers, passed away July 1st ... and due to circumstances that have kept me fairly busy, I haven't had a chance to get a proper entry posted to my blog so am doing so now...better late than never...

I posted a video below that will reveal what kind of innovative coach Coryell was and a lot of things many people didn't know about him. The biggest travesty, as said by many colleagues and former players, is the fact that Coryell was not inducted in the NFL Hall Of Fame yet. With his passing, it may not be long now and he should surely be inducted.

Now here's my personal tact on Don Coryell...the San Diego Chargers of the early 80's are the reason I am a Charger fan today. Don Coryell's offense was high-flying and exciting...the Chargers would put up 40, 50 points in some games...sure their defense wasn't much good and the other teams would as well, but a spectator to Charger games was always treated to a high-flying, exciting game...win or lose. What also was great about the early 80's was that the AFC West was a beast of a conference. The Raiders were stout, Chiefs were tough and the Broncos formidable. Compared to the AFC West right now, some consider the weakest conference in the AFC, if not the NFL. Those division games were always hard fought and rarely would a team sweep the conference, or even a single opponent in a season...regardless of records.

Sid Gillman, a former Charger coach from the AFL days, is credited as the creator of the west coast offense. To spread the defense and go vertical. It was Coryell that further expanded the west coast offense and brought it into the modern era.

I was just a young boy in the 80's, just beginning to fall in love with the NFL... I wasn't certainly evolved enough to memorize the entire Charger roster from that time but there are a few names from the Chargers in the 80's that I will never forget...Dan Fouts, Kellen Winslow, John Jefferson, Wes Chandler, Charlie Joiner, Chuck Muncie, Rolph Benirschke and most certainly head coach Don Coryell. The "Air Coryell" era for the Chargers will always be a fond memory for me and a reminder of my youth.

Thanks Don for all the great memories. Rest in peace.

Cav Fans To Disappear

I really don't care about the NBA that much but of course how can any sports fan ignore the constant barrage of LeBron talk that transpired over the past few days...all that I have gained from this entire episode is more proof as to why I really don't like the NBA anymore...

So LeBron chooses to go to Miami with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh...two other highly touted NBA free agents...and by ESPN's account, means that the Heat should win the NBA Championship for the next ...oh, 20-30 years...consecutively. But for some reason, all this hype...all this artificial drama, I think, is really going to amount to nothing...and if it does really mean a dynasty is that what that league has sunk too? Essentially 3 players get together and decide they are going to join a team and thus dominate the league? Really? That's the NBA? 3 players decide who is going to win the NBA Championship for the next several years...

I don't plan on following the NBA that much but I will certainly follow this HUGE decision ... if it is going to by hyped as the greatest moment in NBA free agency history, I am going to take note and if LeBron doesn't have 6 Championship rings by 2020 I will recall this day and say it was a complete failure ... because I was sold on no less then this being the assembling of the greatest NBA team of all time...but then again, that's just what ESPN said and as soon as they lose the NBA tv contract they won't care anymore....

Tool: Xcel Energy Center - July 1, 2010

The Fourth Of July holiday for me has concluded... As a prior post stated, it all started with going to St. Paul to see one of my all-time favorite bands, TOOL.

Before I give my review, here are the two write-ups from the Pioneer Press (where the photos are from) and the Star Tribune.

Now on to my thoughts about the show...

First, this was the first time (out of 10) I had seen seating on the floor for a Tool show. I had seats on the club level so I really didn't care, but I certainly wouldn't want a seat on the floor unless it was in the first few rows.

I have also seen Tool at the Xcel many times and this was the first time I had seen where everyone, from top to bottom, was sitting in their seats...probably, again, because of the floor seating, whereas when there was general admission on the floor, many fans would buy a ticket for the seats and sneak to the floor anyways...no can-do with seating on the floor.

The show itself was super. I know the last couple of times I had seen Tool, Maynard's vocals seemed to be drowned but not at this show...his vocals were loud and crystal clear. Tool always has fantastic visuals ...lasers and video screens ... there were two screens that would rotate and maneuver about the stage - usually accenting Adam and Justin (guitarist) and even were placed directly behind each of them for a song or two. Danny Carey, the drummer, is the best drummer out there right now. The guy is a beast. He has a huge kit and his arms are often a blur during portions of many of their songs.

Tool is a no nonsense band. Little interaction with the crowd...Maynard only had a few comments, "FYI: Everything is going to be alright." Something like "The word for tonight is time machine. Time machine." And near the conclusion, "See, I told you everything would be alright." Many of Tool's "newer" fans don't 'get' Tool's stage persona ... never are they a band that jumps around and panders to the crowd for cheers (or jeers). They simply come out and rock out...which is exactly what I want... I hate going to concerts where the act will hold the microphone out to the crowd to have them sing along...no, I didn't pay to hear the audience sing this song, I paid to see you sing this song!

Although this show was awesome and great, I was also using this show as a barometer to how far the concert going fan has been pussified. And what I mean by that is that it seems that every show I go to, fans are becoming more and more complacent. There is little to no nefarious activities going on...and not that I'm encouraging any.

The prominent issue would be smoking...now, I don't smoke cigarettes (I quit many years ago) but 10, maybe even 5, years ago, it didn't matter who was playing, as soon as the lights went out everyone would light up a cigarette... the last few shows, including this Tool show, I not only didn't see anyone smoking I didn't even smell any cigarette smoke. Sure, at this Tool show I did smell some pot, but not nearly the amount that was at the last show at the Xcel Center...and I haven't smelt any weed at most other shows.

The fans on the floor...remain at their seats for the entire show...sure, for most shows this would be the case...but I had thought that a Tool crowd would muster enough fortitude to abandon their seats and rush the stage...but not even an attempt was made. And not to point the finger at one group of people, but let's be honest, girls are not going to throw their chair and start a mosh pit...and by having plenty of girls in chairs on the floor you will likely never get a mosh pit started.

Now don't get me wrong...I'm an old dude ... there's no way I'm moshing or starting any trouble...hell, I'll be broken for a week or more...and even when I was younger, I was fairly tame for the most part. But part of the fun of going to a concert was seeing the spectacle of unruly fans and how security would try and deal with them. Now most of the concerts I go to are very orderly affairs...makes me feel even older...

Tool Time: 2010 Edition

It was just a couple of months ago while I was out with some friends, I reminisced at how awesome the 4th of July was last year for a few of us. It all started with no real plans but things just all fell into place and it turned into an extremely fun time. It all started with a buddy coming from out of town to see Les Claypool, so I and a few others decided to get tickets and go as well. The show was awesome and after the show, while enjoying beers in the bar, we decided we would drive to Bismarck and go hang on the Missouri river on the 4th of July. That too was just an extraordinarily great time...the weather was fantastic, the beer was cold...we ended up watching fireworks and partying until dawn.

As I was saying to my friends, I am not sure why last year's Fourth of July seemed so awesome but I do know going to a concert seemed like a perfect way to kick the holiday weekend off, but at the time there was no concert worth seeing anywhere near where I am at...that was until May. In May it was announced that TOOL would be playing at the Xcel Center in St. Paul this Thursday, July 1st. This couldn't be any better! Tool, one of my all-time favorite bands...one I have seen live 9 other times, is coming to the Xcel just prior to the Fourth of July weekend? To say I am excited to go to this show is an understatement. Tickets and hotel rooms have already been obtained ... now all that is left is to make the pilgrimage to St. Paul and see one of the greatest live bands put on another awesome show, which should then hopefully kick off another awesome 4th of July weekend!

Reason Number 1,324 Why Americans Don't Like Soccer

Every 4 years ESPN and ABC relentlessly promote the World Cup Soccer tournament. Every 4 years American sports fans are "coddled" and coaxed to tune into the World Cup...the most watched sporting event in the WORLD. Every 4 years Americans are told Team USA likely won't win the entire tournament but should do well and be competitive. Then every 4 years Team USA disappoints...but not this year... No, this year the American sports fans that are tuning into the World Cup got treated to something every sport is plagued with ... poor officiating.

Soccer is no different than the NBA ... when a player goes in for a layup and there is contact the ref just blows his whistle and calls a foul... no matter what. The same goes with soccer...players flop and make exaggerated gyrations and whether or not there was an actual infraction or not, a whistle is blown and a foul called. Of course Team USA got screwed on an offside call..which is kind of funny, there are so many angles of the play with images of at least 2 American players being held...which apparently isn't a foul?...and then the Americans, of course, no offsides at all.

So in four years when ESPN/ABC are trying to sell the World Cup to American viewers again, they can say "Remember Oh-Ten when America got screwed? They are back for revenge this time!" The end result, though, is the same... soccer is boring. Trying to sell Americans a boring sport and then throw in some shady officiating...yeah, that will catch on like wild-fire....NOT!

VJ and McNeill: Holdouts

Yesterday was the deadline day given to Charger players Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeil to sign their 1 year contract tenders or else have them reduced. Both Jackson and McNeil had stated they were prepared to hold out the entire season, if needed, until they got a new contract deal with the Chargers so neither signed their tenders.

Vincent Jackson is coming off a career year, but also is likely to be suspended for four games for his most recent DUI conviction. Jackson was also cited for driving under suspension the morning of the AFC Playoff game against the Jets...in which the Chargers lost.

McNeil, like Jackson, has spent his entire career with the Chargers. McNeil had been fairly impressive in his first few years with the Chargrs but like much of the offensive line last year, didn't seem impressive last season.

I think both these players have more to lose by having an extended holdout with the Chargers ... I do think that both will get signed by the first game of the season...hopefully the talks don't get to contentious so that the players will want to be committed to the team.

LT's New Tattoo

LaDainian Tomlinson got a Jets tattoo on his calf...he does have a lightning bolt on the other one...but you haven't even played a down for the Jets and you are getting a tattoo already?

LT, continues to do his best to peeve Charger fans...he should realize it wasn't the Charger fans that cut him and by continuing to do these type of things just goes to show that he may be appropriately labeled as a whiner...something I never wanted to previously admit...

Charger OTA's Underway, Ellison Busted

The draft, to many, signals the beginning of a new NFL season...for me, it's when the summer organized team activities begin. Now is when you get to see how some players are prioritizing their offseason. If a player is not at the OTA's I don't instantly hold that against them...players like Antonio Gates that have missed so far, was due to getting his foot checked out and is expected to be back with the team shortly, I have no problem with that. On the other side of that coin is Kevin Ellison, who has been told to stay away from team activities after getting busted with 100 Vicodin pills, that doesn't sit as well with me, nor does it appear to sit well with the Charger brass. Ellison may soon be out of a job.

Favre: Right On Schedule For Return

I officially fired up Favre Watch: 2010 in February and had already determined Favre was returning to play football and it looks as if all indications are that my (not so) bold prediction is likely. First Favre makes a wager with his old college, Southern Miss, if they make the college World Series he'll come back and play football this year. And then we hear he had surgery on his ankle, which would be needed if he was to play this year. And of course the timing of the ankle surgery is the most convenient for Favre as it will prevent him from participating in any sort of 'mini-camp' activity.

I think it may be tougher for Favre to deny that he hasn't made up his mind this year to play or not while training camp fires up, but I am willing to bet that Favre will not show up to training camp for the first few weeks...in fact, he will probably arrive about 2 weeks prior to their first preseason game...which is when he showed up last year and a little earlier than what I had guessed, but I did have him pegged as not being retired...no duh!

I am going to have to find a new annual off season activity once Favre actually does hang it up...but I figure I have at least 5 more years before I really need to worry about that...

Landis Admits Doping

Well, well, well... Floyd Landis came out and admitted to using steroids now...

I had followed the whole Landis steroid case (You can type Landis in the search box or just click the 'Steroids in Sports' tag to the left to follow my reaction at the time) and when his case was tried, twice, and Landis lost in both cases I had already been swayed to know he was juicing.

So why is Landis coming out now and admitting he was cheating? Well, I'm guessing Landis is looking for some dough...a book deal or interview fees...why do I think this? Well of course Landis isn't going to go down alone...he is taking everyone down with him and of course America's biggest name in cycling, Lance Armstrong. Landis details his team's, which included Armstrong, blood doping routine for the 2003 Tour de France...he also details his extensive use of many steroids including HGH.

I have given Armstrong the benefit of the doubt...and continue to do so, for the most part, but when every other member on his US Postal team has been busted for cheating at some point in their career...I have begun to let doubt creep in and would not be surprised if Armstrong, at some point, eventually does admit or some actual tangible evidence is produced to prove his usage. But as I have said in the past, cycling was probably as bad, if not worse, for cheating than MLB during a period of time...we find out now that most of baseball's biggest stars were all cheating during the period of juicing in baseball, including the best pitcher (Clemens) and the best homerun hitters (Bonds, McGwire, Sosa). Anyone juicing during the roid era in baseball was untouchable...Lance Armstrong won every Tour de France during the roid era of cycling...I don't know how anyone could legitimately win against a field of cheaters...unless, of course, you were cheating as well...

You Know Who's Lame? Uber-Gamers In RL

Video games in America have successfully integrated themselves as a component to the American society. Now, more than ever, do kids have access to video games...in almost every form...consoles, handheld, pc, plug-and-play type, etc. and as a result a person can begin to get a glimpse at the video game culture that it is breeding.

Let me begin my analysis with what I like to do when I begin to cast judgment upon something and that is display my credentials because the first thing I think whenever reading something, especially a blog post, is how can this guy be saying this? I am first, a video gamer myself. I present exhibit A (Click the Entire game History for fun). This only details some of the activity that was on my one computer for the past 5 years, does not include the same time on the Playstation or Wii machines. In addition to that small sample, I have been a 'gamer' since I was young....I had about 20 of the handheld single player games, original Pong, an Atari 2600, a Commodore 64, SNES and more ... I have been a 'gamer' for over 30 years now and I still play games to this day... I love them. Ok, enough with that now back to the story...

I was out a while ago with some buddies that happen to be bartenders so throughout the evening people would stop by our group to say hi to one of my friends because they are recognized...some of those people would linger around and have a drink with us, others would just move along. So this young married couple happens to swing by and knows one of my buddies, they say hi and are going to hang around for a bit...so they introduce themselves to me... the guy's name is unimportant but the girl says "Hi, I'm Crispy. That's my gamer-tag so all my friends just call me that." Right there I wanted to put the entire conversation to a screeching halt and just unload on the idiocy that this young, dumb girl just said to me. You see, by being a gamer, myself, I had quickly dissected that sentence and understood the idiocy of it. So, you're a gamer...obviously because you have a gamer-tag. Ok, fair enough so far and then you say all your friends call you by your gamer-tag ... um are all your friends gamers and you call them their gamer-tag too because you are gaming all the time? Of course... and then finally, who gave you your gamer-tag in the first place? Ah...that's right, you had to enter it...so in reality, you just want everyone to call you by your gamer-tag because that's what all your gamer friends do...call you by the name you chose for yourself.

Well, as much as I profess to be a gamer, I can't think of how LAME it is to go around and ask people to call you by your gamer-tag....Hey what's up pwner666? Have you seen HarryDick23 lately? I best change my gamer-tag or else people will refer to me as SayOw in public...which, incidentally many people think is a sexual reference and are almost upset when I tell them it is in reference to one of my favorite football players.

For the Uber-Gamer, which I am fairly certain this chick is, me seeing her actually outside of the house and not online gaming is probably something her family only dreams of. If I was a betting man, I would have guessed they were just killing time until the midnight sale for the new C.O.D. (Call Of Duty for you non-gamers) so they could rush home and play non-stop for 5 days...then they would only leave to get some more Mountain Dew.

Merriman Switches Agent .... Hastens Trade?

Shawne Merriman switched agents which has people speculating that it is a move that will better facilitate a trade out of San Diego.

AJ Smith, the GM for the Chargers, is often blasted for being a hard-ass and a stickler when it comes to negotiations ... and in some cases I can see how he gets that reputation and in other cases, such as this one, I think he has played his hand with Merriman fairly well...

This is Merriman's last year under contract with the Chargers, next year, as most 'experts' are predicting an uncapped season and then probably a lockout if no CBA agreement is reached. So you can see where Merriman would love to sign a big contract right now that would have him locked in until at least the 2013 season so he would have a job after a potential lockout. His problem, though, is that he hasn't really been an effective player for the Chargers since his steroid bust. His value with the Chargers, and other teams, is quickly dropping and what Merriman would, I think, ideally like is to be traded before this season starts (or shortly there after) and get a new contract with a new team...otherwise his future could be in some doubt...

If he ends up on the Charger roster for the entire season and under performs as he has the past 2 1/2 seasons, his value will surely be nominal...so it only behooves Merriman to go all out this season with the Chargers...then, after the season, the Chargers could re-evaluate their position with Merriman. But to be brutally honest, I think Merriman's salad days are over. He has a lifestyle that is bigger than his game. If Merriman could back his on field play with his off field drama, he may be worth the baggage but all Shawne has done, since his steroid suspension is party with Tila Tequilla, be hurt and ineffective.

It would be great for the Chargers if someone was willing to pony up and take Merriman because I don't think he is worth the money or the hassle anymore...

Some Man Advice

I've mentioned it many times ... I'm getting old. Most of the time half-jokingly but yet, aware that it is slowly becoming more of a reality than a joke. I don't get carded at bars anymore...unless I go to one of those places that literally card everyone because it is filled with mostly 21-25 year old people and every minor in the county tries to get in. Not getting carded is really the first step towards officially being old.

Now, I'm not bitter about getting old because I also have discovered that I have become fairly wise, relatively speaking. I can not tell you how many times I have been hanging out with some guys and their would be someone who is pre-30 that would tell a tale of some sort and after hearing this tale us old men would chuckle and point out to the youngin' where he went wrong...it is all common sense we say.

So, as a public service to every man in America, I am going to dispense some invaluable advice exclusively for men. I am by no means a professional consultant or am certified to help anyone in any way shape or form. I am merely a man that likes sports, women, rock music and beer (in no particular order). And some of the things I am about to point out you will exclaim, well of course, that's just common sense...of course it is, but you would be surprised at how many times these instances happen. That really is my goal here...is to inform those that don't know yet. And finally, this isn't like any magazine "10 Ways To Get The Girl You Want" type of advice...this, again, should just be common sense type of advice that not all men seem to know. I am not claiming to break any new ground here.

So let's get's this thing rolling:

Never ask a woman if they are pregnant. Right off the bat, seems like common sense, yet I have seen more then one man make this gaffe. Now of course if your intent is to offend and/or ridicule the woman you inquired, you probably can't get much meaner. I do not care if you see a girl that you knew was 125 lbs just last month and now looks like she is trying to hide a blanket under her shirt, wearing sweat pants and almost 200 lbs ... you should never utter that phrase to any woman. EVER.

Always compliment a woman's hair, especially if she changed it. Now this one seems pretty straight forward but it is one a man forgets and I also say it is something that a man should do to any female acquaintance and will instantly gain favor amongst all the women you interact with. For some reason women, throughout their life, feel the need to change things up and will either cut their hair really short or let it grow really long or hilight it or tint it or whatever...no matter who this woman is in your life, your mom, your sister, neighbor, whoever...by simply noticing it and merely say "I like what you've done to your hair," you are set. Even if the woman, herself, does not like what she did to her hair, most women will then proceed to thank you and explain either why or why not they will keep that hairstyle...either way, you don't lose and most likely don't have to say another word. What also makes the woman more endearing towards you is that most men won't say anything to a woman about her hair ... maybe their spouse or girlfriend, but men, in general, don't usually comment on a woman's hairstyle directly to the woman. That's why by doing so, you will seem so more 'in tune' than the other men that the woman deals with. This tip alone is worth it's price in ... uh.... something....trust me. Start complimenting a woman's hairstyle ...only when she changes it mind you...and you will not be disappointed. Treats will be left on your doorstep, help with your house cleaning...all kinds of favors are magically offered for no apparent reason.

Never buy clothes for a woman. Again, should be a no-brainer here, but you wouldn't believe how many men fail at this. First, they think well I won't buy anything like a shirt or a dress or anything like that...I'll get her some gloves...NO! Don't do it. Not a scarf, no gloves, hat or anything apparel related...the only exception might be diamond or gold jewelry, but even then you are taking a gamble. Unless the woman has given you the precise specifications of the item she wants, which would include no less then the following information: the brand, style, color, country manufactured in and the exact spot within the only store it can be found ... you might be able to get away with this...but it is still extremely risky.

Women are always hungry. I theorized about this quite some time ago and have been able to almost confirm this assertion as fact. Ok, you say, we know women are hungry, how does that help a man? Well easy...anytime anything with a woman is awry, food is a very good pacifier...especially if you know what the woman loves to eat...if you don't know for sure, always start out with a cake, usually can't go wrong there. And let's say that if you are with a woman and you ask if she is hungry and she replies no, she is not hungry, continue to try to obtain food anyways...I'm willing to bet that 8 out of 10 times the woman eats after initially declining...they just decline to not appear like a pig. Here's the scenario... "Hey Julie, want something to eat?" you ask. "No thanks, I'm not hungry" Julie replies. "Ok," you say, "I'm kind of hungry so I'm just going to grab something to eat if you don't mind." Julie will pause and then say, "Well, if you wanted to share something, I might have a little something." Bam...it's that easy.

Never be a stalker. Pretty straightforward here...don't be the guy who has stalker like qualities...calling and texting a girl about her where-abouts, what she is doing, who she is with, etc. You want to start creeping a girl out and probably drive her towards the paranoia you have, this is the way to do that. I know men often feel desperate and that the one girl they are actually getting something off of is the only girl in the world what would do so become very protective and possessive, but women will eventually want to break free from your overbearing personality.

Five quick tips that if men adhered too would, at the very least, not give them too many negative points when trying to deal with women and not necessarily in just an intimate relationship, but with all the women you deal with on a daily basis. Friends, co-workers, family and whatever female acquaintances may have you have, many of the above tips will help you out.

Fantasy Owners Beware: Brees On Madden '11

Drew Brees was selected by the fans to be on the cover of the next EA Sports Madden NFL 11 game.

Of course most all football fans know of the Madden curse that has effected almost every player that has graced the cover of the latest Madden NFL game since 2002 and Dante Culpepper.

Last year Madden had 2 players on the cover, Troy Polamalu and Larry Fitzgerald...Fitzgerald made it the entire season without injury and did perform at a respectable level... Polamalu, on the other hand, was injured a few times this past season...so not how the 'curse' selected its victim last year, but this year the curse can focus squarely on Brees...

2010 Charger Schedule Released

The NFL released the schedule for next year and usually I have a complaint about the schedule and how, by appearances, the Chargers seemed to get screwed on a few games, have an early bye or whatever. But it hasn't really mattered like last year, the Chargers have seemed to overcome any schedule handicaps in the past and have had fairly good success in the regular season. So what about this year? At first glance, the schedule seems very 'kind' for the Chargers...

What seems almost like a tradition now, the Chargers will open the season as the 2nd game on Monday Night Football, this time against the Chiefs...and in Kansas City. Not sure if the NFL knows this or not, but KC is in the central time zone, so that game will start at 9:00 PM local time ... not really a 'fan friendly' start time...why wouldn't the NFL have the Chargers or any other California/west coast team host that game so it would start at a respectable time for the locals?

The Chargers have 5 'prime time' games ... along with the above mentioned Monday night game, they play one other Monday night game against the Broncos on November 22nd. They have 2 Sunday night games, November 28th vs the Colts and then against the Bengals on December 26th. The other game against the 49ers, which is a Thursday night game on the NFL Network.

Unlike last year, when the Chargers didn't play a division rival after Thanksgiving, play 4 divisional games in their last 7 games... The Chargers play the NFC West, which many think is as weak as the AFC West...

So I think the Chargers could very likely mimic last season...have a fantastic regular season...but of course I have lost all faith in the Chargers and am fully expecting a playoff disappointment to conclude their season, as usual.

Sometimes You Can't Win

You know there are sometimes there is something a person tries and no matter how simple or quick and easy this task might be, it just seems destined to not go that way for whatever reason...yesterday, I had one such experience...

So my son is in Cub Scouts and one of his projects that he needs to complete for some badge is to make a scrapbook. I, as luck would have it, had taken our digital camera with to all of his previous scout functions and have a fair amount of pictures...so, for the first step of this project, I was going to get prints of several of the photos and to put them into a scrap book. I wasn't in any hurry for these, but at the same time wanted to do something that was convenient...so there is a pharmacy, literally, right across the street from where I work that has a 1-hour photo and to add to my good fortune, has internet ordering available...so I can simply upload my photos, have them processed and after work simply pick up the photos and be on my way...sounds like a great plan to me... well, I only wanted a dozen pictures printed and the order was less than $2...awesome, I think, until I see the final charge(s) where $1.50 was added to my order because it was less than $5...well screw that I think, I'm not going to pay almost double what I should be paying just because I don't want $5 in pictures printed up right now. I also know they have a picture printing station available right inside their door... I will simply go there after work, insert my SD Card and in about 3 minutes have my prints and be on my way...like I've done before. I go to the store, stick my memory card in, select my photos and wait for them to print out for me...after the 2nd print, sure enough an error message comes up "Printer out of paper/ink get store rep to fix." Great...now I got to go find someone to fix the machine...and of course it can't be a quick, easy process...and then...finally, I get my 10 or so pictures.

As I mentioned above, I wasn't in any hurry, so I wasn't getting steamed or mad about anything...but what I had initially thought would be a less then 3 minute stop across the street after work turned into over a half hour adventure...no matter how hard I tried for it not to be!

Roethlisberger Gets Away With Rape

Off-duty cops, acting as Roethlisberger's bodyguards, helped facilitate Roethlisberger raping a girl...

There's obviously a lot more to this story because with the details that was released to the press, how could the DA not press charges? Is it the fact, that first the girl is only 20 years old and 'clubbing' all night with Ben? Or is it the fact that off-duty police officers essentially 'assisted' Ben in the raping by first, leading the girl to a back hallway and then preventing her friends from going to her?

Either way, Ben was drunk, pulling out his dick and then raping some girl he fed shots too all night long... I just don't get it... you could probably find plenty of willing girls to have sex with, yet you got a rise out of the one that told you no...and now are going to essentially get away with it...

I would be willing to bet that Ben wrote a nice check to the girl and/or parents as an apology for his 'poor judgement' and she decided to not testify against him or some other back room deal...

LT Continues Bashing Chargers

Since LaDainian Tomlinson was signed by the New York Jets he has not stopped talking about how horrible the Chargers were to him...bashing the team, the play calling and most anything he can think of.

I have tried to ignore most of it but LT continues his tirade making it almost unignorable now...I have defended LT his entire career, he has always been a 'class act', in my opinion...but now, I am beginning to rethink of what my impression of him is...

Before the playoffs this past season LT said he was happy with his role with the team and felt the team was united to make a playoff push...since then, he has said the team set him up to fail and there was dissension in the locker room. He was happy when the Chargers were winning but the second they were out of the playoffs LT turned bitter and sour...and in a hurry.

Sure, if he had taken a couple of light jabs at the Chargers, fine, so be it...they were the team that cut you and you want to leave them knowing you didn't like that...but then LT continues on and pretty much blames everyone else as to why his production hasn't been what it once was...it almost seems like he is more than willing to bash the Chargers any chance he can get right now...

Ok, LT, we get it, you are bitter...but there are tons of Charger fans that hold you to be one of the greatest Chargers of all-time, which I am one of...but you are also quickly moving into the ranks as to being one of the biggest whiners of all-time.

Fighting Sioux Name To Be Retired

It appears as if the UND Fighting Sioux will be no more. After a few years of legal wrangling the pc crowd and the NCAA will come out victorious and the University of North Dakota will have to get rid of their nickname and mascot, the Fighting Sioux.

A state supreme court decision came down yesterday stating the the nickname can be retired at any time...whereas, supporters of the nickname wanted to have the name remain intact until the absolute last date...November 30th of this year.

In this world of political correctness, the verdict was probably inevitable...the supporters of the UND nickname had plenty of money to delay the change for as long as they could but in the end, they can not stop political correctness in today's America.

The best part of this, is that the late Ralph Engelstad knew that the nickname and logo would be under attack...so he made sure that neither would be forgotten if and when they would be banished...so he made sure that the Sioux logo is literally EVERYWHERE in one of the world's premiere hockey facilities, the Ralph Engelstad arena...stitched onto EVERY leather chair, logo is made of Italian marble etched throughout the concourse, holographic Sioux logos in the railings...it is everywhere and there is no way, without totally destroying the building, that those logos can or will be removed.

I know I have already begun to collect as much Fighting Sioux attire as I can...

McNabb Traded To Redskins

Wow...that's about all I could say after I read that Donovan McNabb was traded to the Washington Redskins...

And Philadelphia fans...I don't think you realized what you just did...oh sure, you got what you wanted, but I'm guessing this move is a move that could very well come back to haunt you...

Here's my opinion...and granted, I am a Charger fan but my two cents anyways...

What had me perplexed about this entire episode, was why Philadelphia (and their fans) had such a desire to get rid of McNabb...like he was a totally worthless quarterback, which he is absolutely not. Next, why Philly (and their fans) have such high praise from Kolb, who most assume will be the starter now that McNabb is gone, when Kolb really hasn't played that much or done anything that I have noticed that has made him better than McNabb...

And then, to top things off, not only do the Eagles trade McNabb but they trade him to a division rival? Are you really kidding me? The Eagles must have some inside knowledge or are just completely clueless, because McNabb, even to the harshest critics, can't be that washed up where you think trading him to a division rival will hurt them more then help them. The only instance that I can recall would be when Drew Bledsoe was traded from the Patriots to the Bills, I at first thought he was insane, Bledsoe was a young and relatively unproven quarterback but showed signs of being good, how could a team trade him and then to a division rival? Of course Bledsoe sucked and the Patriots had a guy named Tom Brady and a person doesn't have to try to hard to decipher the paths that the Bills and Patriots have taken since that trade....and the Patriots looked like they knew exactly what they were trading away...maybe the same here?

I know McNabb can be a bit streaky, but it always seemed to me that McNabb wouldn't be the reason the Eagles lost a big game. What I think, unfortunately, for McNabb is, is that he is going to Washington...a team where the owner knows no limits to signing big checks for players but also seems to meddle with the team on a way too frequent basis, which has the Redskins appear as a team with all the talent in the world but totally dysfunctional together...

Sioux Win WCHA, ESPN and NCAA Both Suck

What a weekend for the UND Fighting Sioux hockey team at the WCHA Final Five...

They had to play last Sunday the 3rd (of a best of 3) game against the Minnesota Gophers to advance to the Final Five...which they won. That meant if UND wanted to win the WCHA Tournament they would have to play (and win) Thursday night, then against the #1 team, Denver, on Friday and then again on Saturday. They beat Duluth Thursday night, played a great game against Denver on Friday night and then fell down 2-0 in the first minute of play against St. Cloud on Saturday but the Sioux ended the first period tied at 2 and went on to win 5-3 to secure the championship.

So many folks thought that UND might garner a #1 seed in the Frozen Four, or, at the very least, be within driving distance of their fans...but like usual, the NCAA hates UND (probably their nickname more than anything) and put UND in the Northeast region, which is in Massachusetts, and of course make sure Boston College is in the same region as well...essentially securing home ice advantage for B.C. In the meantime, not 1 single WCHA team in the Frozen four is even in the west region playing at the Xcel Center. Are you kidding me? Alabama-Huntsville is in the Midwest region but UND isn't, which sure isn't the Xcel Center but it's at least Indiana. Don't have to look to hard as to who the NCAA is favoring and who they are not...it isn't much more blatant than that...

Then let's go to ESPN's fine coverage...instead of showing the UND game live they are going to tape delay it until Sunday...so what's on the ESPN channels while UND will be playing hockey, here's your lineup: ESPN: Sportscenter and then WSOP reruns, ESPN2: 30 for 30 rerun and then drag racing and finally ESPNU: the one station they are airing hockey games...but of course only one region and of course not the Sioux game.

The NCAA and ESPN have done their best to make sure no one can follow or care about this hockey tournament at all...and I am amazed that WSOP reruns would get better ratings then tournament hockey...

Chargers Trade Whitehurst To Seattle

The Chargers traded their third string quarterback, Charlie Whitehurst, to Seattle yesterday. Seattle must see a lot of upside in Whitehurst, swapping 2nd round picks this year with the Chargers and giving them a 3rd round next year. Next year the Chargers have garnered 2 additional 3rd round picks (1 possibly a 2nd rounder pending Cromartie's play with the Jets) which can give the Chargers some leverage if they wish to seek out a player to work a trade for...or, worse case is that the Chargers will use the picks and bolster their squad up.

Whitehurst is a player that has been in the NFL for some time now but just hasn't had the opportunity to play in the regular season because he is behind Rivers and Volek. He has virtually no wear and tear on his body and what NFL teams typically do to young quarterbacks...let them sit on the bench for a few years to get the hang of the NFL and then give them a chance to start.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

I'm not Irish, I won't be going out and getting drunk tonight but since I haven't had an entry in a while I figured I might as well wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day.

ESPN: Total Schills

I'm really not breaking any new ground with my latest rail against ESPN but just want to continue to point out that most of their live, non-sports related content (ie: Sportscenter, First Take, PTI, etc.) are really no more then commercials for ESPN and ABC Sports.

What had set me off this morning is the whole UConn women's basketball team. Yes, good for them that they won 71 games in a row and they do deserve the media attention that they are getting...BUT what gets me is that ESPN has literally gushed over women's basketball, a sport with virtually no television ratings and have breakdowns, analysis and discussion regarding this feat...but then won't even show many, if any, NHL highlights... which will most certainly be placed towards the end of a 3 hour Sportscenter marathon...couple of highlights from one game then run down the scores from the rest of the league. And then, to add to my dislike, I tune into Mike & Mike this morning and Greenberg couldn't stop babbling about how great this UConn team is, how they have people actually watching their games, etc, etc, etc... essentially trying to get people to start watching women's basketball...and why? Of course, it's on ESPN. I don't recall anytime this past year I have heard the Mikes talk NHL at all (of course I don't listen to them for that long or that frequently because the repetition is too overbearing) but here, they spent a good 15 minutes raving up the UConn women, live interviews, the whole ball of wax.

Sure, when ESPN had hockey they would push the NHL to the deuce over virtually any college basketball game ... but at least ESPN put the minimal amount of effort into covering the NHL when they did indeed have it on their station. But what really irks me is that ESPN calls themselves the "Worldwide Leader In Sports" yet piratically ignores hockey altogether. ESPN doesn't even mention one college hockey game all year long until the national tournament and why? Oh that's right, the Frozen Four is on ESPN....they only care when it's on their station(s), just like every other sport.

Oscars: Boring Television

At one time I actually would watch and even cared about the Academy Awards show, but I think it was in the early 90's when I grew increasingly bored and tired of the Oscars. At first I began to sour on the Oscars because it seemed as if none of the movies I felt should win would win...or even get nominated...and then came the show itself, which after only a couple of years worth of watching had extinguished any desire for me to watch it again. It is an award show that seems to get longer and drag on and on until a person finally gets to see what they've waited for 3+ hours to see...some rich director/actor/film folks win a prize given to them by other rich directors/actors/film folks. I was long asleep before the Oscars even concluded last night and I don't think I had seen a single movie that was nominated for any of the awards but reading the write-up this morning details much of my sentiment about the Oscars each year...which is funny, because the write-up for the Academy Awards have all been very similar in the past few years...a stuffy, unfunny, stiff and extremely long (and boring) awards show...not sure how much longer it will continue to garner large audiences, but I would guess that is more dependent on the quality of the films more then this boring award show.

There is probably nothing on television right now that a person rightly needs to host a 'party' to make something on television enjoyable. The Oscars will cleverly place a "worthy" award about every half hour or so during it's ceremony because if the awards were simply handed out at the end of the show no one would watch any of the rest of their program. And that's why one of the new 'popular' things to do on the evening of the Academy Awards is to host or go to a 'party' to enjoy the show with others. I have yet to attend such a party but I would love to be invited just to observe what people are actually doing during the show... I'm willing to bet that for 90% or more of the show people, attending these parties, aren't paying attention to the show...but when the one person that is actually watching the show calls out that the best actor, movie, director or any of the big categories are coming up, everyone scurries from the snacks and drinks area to huddle around the television...as soon as a winner is announced many will stand up and resume whatever else they were doing and the others will quickly join. Several of these parties, to try and add any entertainment value to the program, will have a pick'em game or something that resembles gambling to try and keep people interested but it really doesn't help...most people don't know or don't care about who is nominated for the best make-up assistant for a documentary adapted for screenplay based on a novel shot in black and white. When the party-goers see that they are just randomly selecting answers it quickly loses any value it had.

Another reason I have grown tired of the Academy Awards is all the extra coverage that goes along with it...there are pre-award shows, red carpet shows and of course post-show shows...all of which go over every second of an almost 4 hour evening ... strike that because actually most of these shows dissect everything surrounding the show and very little of what happened at the show...it's more about what expensive clothes is someone wearing and where did they go to party afterwards then anything that happened on the stage...which really does reveal how much of the actual 'pageant' is relevant in the minds of the people that 'cover' Hollywood. Doesn't every "Hollywood Story" regarding the Oscars start out with so and so just won the best actor award and after accepting the award headed to so and so's party on the strip where they partied the night away...

Breaking News: Favre Doesn't Know If He'll Play Or Not

Brett Favre, not picking an ideal time to try and be the media whore that he is, surprised everyone (not) by announcing on last night's Tonight Show that he doesn't know if he will play next season or not.

Ok, so it isn't a surprise to anyone and it will surprise no one when he announces in late August that he will come back and play next season and the Vikes will roll out the red carpet for him...again...

Not sure if Brett has checked out the opponents for next season but they include the AFC and NFC east ... won't be the cakewalk they had last season in the NFC West and the AFC North.

Cro A Jet

The Jets have acquired Antonio Cromartie from the Chargers...the Chargers will get a 3rd round (possibly a 2nd rounder) in 2011.

Not sure if the Jets coaching staff was paying any attention to the playoff game when they beat the Chargers, but it was Cromartie that had a chance to hit Shonn Greene before he got into the hole (behind the line of scrimmage) when he took off on his td that sealed the win for them...instead, Cromartie pulled up and didn't even bother to make a play on Greene...

Really not a surprise to me... Cromartie has been soft for some time now...if he can't make a play on the ball then he won't make a play.

Sproles To Stay, Chargers Release Jamal Williams

The Chargers, who first appeared as if they were going to let Sproles become a free agent have now put a tender on him and instead, cut Jamal Williams. (Story here)

I did post that cutting Jamal might be an option for the Chargers because of his high salary, 1 year left on his contract and being injury prone since '06 has really cut his value with the team.