NHL Is Back!

For the record...

I'm glad the NHL is back. I think the rule changes are going to help the game. The shootout is going to attract new fans.

A big reason I got DirecTV is because my local cable company doesn't carry OLN and I would not even get to see one game on opening night...FSN isn't carrying the Wild season opener, which is at home against Calgary...which would be a good game...

Instead I'll be watching Rangers@Flyers...

(Screw baseball - Roid monkeys)

Chargers Throttle Pats, 41-17

So where do I start?

Well, with the obvious... it was a HUGE win for the Chargers. Beating the reigning world champions, in their house, breaking their 21 home win streak. Of course all the nay-sayers are going to point out that the Patriot defense has been weakened. But I doubt anyone is really counting the Patriots out of the playoffs...they are still a good team.

How'd the Chargers do it? As I said their chance to win this game had to be done... execute 'Marty Ball' to perfection, and that's what was done. The Chargers in the second half kept the ball out of the Tom Brady and the Patriot's offense. Brees did not turn the ball over. Tomlinson was effective all day. Big plays to Gates and Caldwell. A perfect blend of attack that kept the Patriot defense on their heels the entire second half.

Big Monday night game against the Steelers, who are coming off a bye... then the Chargers play the Raiders...who will be coming off a bye, then they play Philadelphia who (guess?) are coming off their bye... man what did San Diego ever do to piss off the NFL schedulers? (Have I mentioned how brutal the Charger schedule is yet?)

Party's Still Going

Another underage drinker in Moorhead was taken to the hospital early Sunday, the third in three days in Fargo-Moorhead and the fourth since a Minnesota State University Moorhead student apparently drowned in the Red River after drinking at a party Sept. 22.

Moorhead Police Sgt. Brad Penas said Jessica Vandeusen, 19, a Concordia College student, was taken to the hospital at her own request after police found her conscious but intoxicated in a house at 603 9th St. S.

Moorhead Police Sgt. Joel Scharf said officers were called at 2:42 a.m. to break up a loud party at the house, where revelers were setting off fireworks.

While they were clearing the house, officers discovered Vandeusen on the second floor, Scharf said.

The woman, who was conscious, was brought down to the first floor. Scharf said she was given a breath test and registered .233, nearly three times the legal limit for intoxication in Minnesota.

“I think she made the choice herself that it would be in her best interests to go to the hospital,” Penas said.

An ambulance crew was called and she was transported to MeritCare Hospital, Scharf said. A MeritCare nursing supervisor said she was not listed as a patient there Sunday night.

Reached by telephone late Sunday night at her dorm room, Vandeusen declined comment. She said only that she was not aware her blood alcohol registered that high.

Several citations were issued to the home’s tenants, but neither Scharf nor Penas knew exactly what they were issued for.

Sunday’s was the latest in a sudden spate of alcohol-related hospitalizations of young people in Fargo-Moorhead over the weekend.

On Saturday, Jenna xxxxxx*, 19, 137 Prairiewood Drive, was taken from her home by paramedics after she passed out while drinking vodka, Fargo police said. On Saturday afternoon, she was not listed as a patient at either Fargo hospital.

On Friday, 19-year-old Concordia College student Jesse Ringdahl, was taken to Innovis Hospital after a passerby found him semiconscious in the front yard of a home at 919 5th St. S. in Moorhead. He was released from the hospital later that same day.

Moorhead police said Ringdahl had been drinking from a vodka bong, which funnels a large amount of alcohol directly into the drinker’s mouth.

Concern over drinking by young people was spurred last week after the body of Minnesota State University sophomore Patrick Kycia, 19, was pulled from the Red River on Tuesday.

Initial autopsy reports said Kycia drowned, but police believe he drank heavily Sept. 22 at the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity, 611 10th St. S. in Moorhead.

The day after Kycia’s body was found, former fraternity member Alex Daniel Olson, was arrested in connection with the discovery of 152 grams of hallucinogenic mushrooms in the Phi Sigma Kappa house. The drugs were found in a search of the house connected with Kycia’s death.

That case remains under investigation and toxicology results from Kycia’s autopsy have not yet come back.

* Updated 10/15/2010 - Last name removed as per request.

Great Game!

Great game - more to follow!

PS:

Glad I was wrong! ;)

Party Town USA

Man these kids are partying it up around here lately:

For the second day in a row and the third time in a week and a half, local police dealt with a dangerous drinking incident involving underage people.

Fargo Police Sgt. Kevin Volrath released a statement to media saying that officers were called just before 5:30 a.m. Saturday to 137 Prairiewood Drive to help an ambulance crew with an unresponsive female.

When police arrived, they found Jenna xxxxxxxx*, 19, unconscious. xxxxxxxx shares the apartment with Jared Miller, 19, and Tyler Finck, 18, both of whom also were there.

xxxxxxxxxx came to just before paramedics took her out, Volrath said. Officers determined that the trio was drinking vodka and the woman passed out.

xxxxxxxx was taken to Innovis Hospital, Volrath said. She was not listed as a patient either there or at MeritCare Hospital on Saturday afternoon.

All three residents of the apartment were cited for minor in possession, minor consuming and minor under the influence, Volrath said.

Neither xxxxxxxx nor her roommates have a listed telephone number. An attempt to reach her by e-mail was unsuccessful.

The incident happened about 24 hours after a 19-year-old Concordia College student, Jesse Ringdahl, was taken to Innovis Hospital after a passerby found him semiconscious in the front yard of a home at 919 5th St. S. in Moorhead. He was released from the hospital later that same day.

Moorhead police said Ringdahl had been drinking from a vodka bong, a container that funnels a large amount of alcohol directly into the drinker’s mouth.

On Tuesday, police pulled the body of Minnesota State University Moorhead sophomore Patrick Kycia, 19, from the Red River.

Initial autopsy reports said Kycia drowned.

Police believe he drank heavily the night of Sept. 22 at the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity in Moorhead.

Kycia left the party at 611 10th St. S. sometime after midnight, heading for his home several blocks away, but disappeared.

The day after Kycia’s body was found, a former fraternity member, Alex Daniel Olson, was arrested in connection with the discovery of 152 grams of hallucinogenic mushrooms in the Phi Sigma Kappa house. The drugs were found in a search of the house connected with Kycia’s death.

That case remains under investigation.

Fargo Police Sgt. Shannon Ruziska said while it’s unusual to have three such similar, high-profile cases in such a short time, it’s difficult to say whether that means anything.

“Throughout the years that I’ve been here, if we had any individual who (drank) so much they’ve been hospitalized, and they’re a minor, it’s been picked up by the media pretty well. It’s an unusual spike in the amount we have. I wouldn’t be able to say if it indicates anything yet.”

Chargers - Patriots Preview

Alright, here's my thoughts on this weekend's San Diego Chargers at the New England Patriots...

First, a personal protest. The Charger - Patriot game was slated to be seen on my local CBS affiliate, but because Brooks Bollinger - Grand Forks, ND product - is starting tomorrow they switched the game to be seen to the NY Jets and the Baltimore Ravens...man, only in North Dakota. That just means I'm going to the bar, but I could have saved some dough by getting some offsale and watching the game at a friend's place...but I'll manage somehow...

Ok, now on to the game...

The big story has been that the Patriots defense has been weakened, is battered and bruised. But that's all great and stuff, but the Charger defense has been less than stellar...in fact, down right awful. Tom Brady and the Patriot offense could easily have a field day and their defense take a breather...

So if the Chargers are going to have a shot at winning this game, they are going to have to keep the ball out of Brady's hands. The offense needs to execute 'Marty Ball' to perfection. No turnovers, and nice methodical drives that use a lot of clock and move the ball. The Charger defense shouldn't be put into the position to win the game, because they have yet to prove they can. So special teams is could also play a big part of this game and I think the Chargers are pretty solid on special teams, hopefully they can execute and be a factor in this game.

I do think the Chargers COULD win this game...but I really can't see it happening. I don't know of Tomlinson can reel of 192 against this defense, even as 'battered' as the media makes it out to be. It be nice to not see Brees throw a pick, but I think he is going to be good for at least one...

I think Patriots are going to win - although I hope I'm wrong - 31-20.

As Promised...

A picture of my 3-year old son, Matthew in his first ever football jersey...he likes it, and so do I!

New Jersey's

Thanks to my friend, Lowell, in San Diego I just received my second Chargers jersery. I do have a powder blue Tomlinson, which is the only jersey you would find around here, if they even carry a Charger jersey.

This one is for me:















And Lowell was kind enough to purchase this one for my 3-year old son Matthew:


I'll take a picture of him in it this Sunday and post it...

Heineken? F*ck Heineken! PBR.

Florida Vacation

Women....

I try not to complain about women too much...because that would be a full time task if one really wanted to pursue that... and then I try not to complain about my wife, especially publicly... but here's an instance I think is valid...

So yesterday, which was Wednesday, my wife informs me that she will need to go to work after hours to do some extra work. I say fine. We then try and discuss what time(s) she can go in so that I can manage the kids...and low-and-behold, the only times she can possibly go in are times that I have made plans to either: a) go to my weekly poker game Friday night b) when I am working on Saturday or c) Sunday during the football games. You see, Friday night she doesn't want to stay at work, on Saturday her work's server is going down at noon (of course going in before noon is crazy talk) and then of course Sunday all day is just plain great for her...of course she doesn't want to go late though...

What this is, clearly to me, is her attempt at trying to 'disrupt' my weekend enjoyment. She was even able to go in last night for 3 hours to get a jump on all this work she has to do and tonight she could do the same...but she could work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and apparently still have to go into work sometime this weekend to do more... you see, this just plain sucks... she is just making up any reason to get mad at me for going out and having a good time. I'm sorry I won't feel guilty or sorry for not accomodating her 'schedule' when she is doing nothing but trying to disrupt mine...

And now today, just to pile another complaint on me, she asks if I can pick up the kids from daycare...which is no big deal for me, but for some reason always seems to be for her... so that she can take in our stockpile of aluminum cans and redeem them for the $10. Of course she could take in the aluminum cans and pick up the kids and be home before I even get off work (but that makes no difference), but because I merely inquire as to why she can't just pick them up after her little chore, I get the "Forget it, I'll take care of it." Snotty retort.

I tell you what, I just don't understand why women have to make THEIR life and others so complicated but I can see how they do it...

Tomlinson: AFC Offensive Player Of The Week

San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson rushed for 192 yards and three touchdowns, caught six passes for 28 yards, and threw a 26-yard touchdown pass for good measure in a 45-23 victory against the New York Giants. Tomlinson's touchdowns marked the 15th consecutive game in which he scored one. The 5-10, 221-pound rusher's streak of consecutive games with a touchdown is the second-longest in NFL history, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famer Lenny Moore (19 games). Tomlinson's 220 total scrimmage yards stand as the league's single-game high thus far in 2005.

For the fifth-year veteran from TCU, this is his fourth career Player of the Week distinction.

Link to story from NFL.com here.

Pics From Sunday's Game

Chargers.com has some great pictures from Sunday's game against the Giants... here's a taste...

Mille Lacs

Never been to Mille Lacs, MN. It is a really big lake. To the left is a photo taken with my phone as I was driving by it... Not really anything to spectacular about this pic, I just wanted to post it, to have it...

It was about 9:30 AM, windy and cold. When I was leaving, around 6:30 PM that same day, it was raining pretty good...

Chargers Win Big

Well the Chargers are on the board... winning big, 45 to 23 against Eli Manning and the NY Giants. Eli Manning had the best game of his career, but the Chargers offense exploited a Giants defense that is probably worse than the Chargers.

The Chargers took a 21-3 lead, but the Giants came back with 17 unanswered points to only trail by 1 at the half. Tomlinson would finish the day with 192 yards rushing, 3 rushing touchdowns, 1 passing touchdown, and 6 receptions for 28 yards... the fumble marred an otherwise spectacular performance by arguably the league's best runningback.

Gates and McCardell both had good games as well, which was fun to see...the entire Charger offense clicking, and for the first time this year.

Many of the 'hardcore' Charger fans are greatly concerned with the Charger defense...specifically the secondary. The upcoming games (@NE and Pittsburgh) seem to overshadow the first win of the season for the Chargers. But I contend that the Chargers need to approach every game with an 'attacking offense' mentality. That is, let the Charger offense dictate the game...like the Chargers of the 80's. The Chargers need to put up 50 points every game and make the other team match it. If the Charger team can limit turnovers and move the ball effectively, the pressure won't be as great for the defense...

I listened to the first half on the radio and made it back in town to watch the entire second half...was a good time!

Quick First Analysis Of Tonight's Game

If you are not a Charger fan and watched tonight's game on ESPN you learned 3 things...

1. The Chargers schedule is brutal.

2. LaDanian Tomlinson is AWESOME.

3. Joe Thiesmann wants to have gay sex with Eli Manning.

More in depth game thoughts will follow...

Charger - Giants Preview

This game has been a game many a rabid Charger fan has been waiting for. Eli Manning - the number 1 overall draft pick from the 2004 draft, drafted by the Chargers, not-wanting to play for the Chargers, traded from the Chargers - makes his first appearance against the Chargers in San Diego. The Charger fans will no-doubtedly bringing signs, custom t-shirts and their voices to express their dislike for the younger Manning...and in my opinion, he deserves every ounce of it. Of course, he will quickly quiet and send the Charger faithful out of the stands with a solid performance and a Giants victory...if one can be had.

So, let's talk about the game itself...

Chargers, once a team that looked like it was promising, had potential to move into the upper echelon of AFC Teams and most importantly trying to prove that they weren't a one-year hit, has had done nothing but dissappoint so far. 2 games, 2 fourth quarter leads and 2 losses are all the Chargers are touting right now. Their offensive line has played horrible, the offensive play calling, has been awful and the defensive plays good until it matters most...then teams are able to move the ball at will. All those areas need to be addressed if the Chargers are to finally get into the win column. The secret to beating the Chargers is also out of the bottle...just blitz. The Cowboys and Broncos blitzed often in the second half of the first two games and the Chargers were unable to do anything offensively. The Chargers haven't shown any deep-ball or big-play ability. Tomlinson has rushed for a total of 124 yards...yes, 124 yards total...that number should be a single game stat and not the total of two. To add to that pathetic rushing total, Tomlinson has yet to catch a ball. The best blitz counter-measure the Chargers have, I would think, would be LT... and you can see that he isn't even being utilized effectively at all.

I no longer see Charger domination. I see a talented squad being poorly coached. There is no panic or concern for Schottenheimer or the Charger staff...heck it's only game 2 they say. But I think they may be taking things a little too light, before the Chargers' week 10 bye and after the Giants game their schedule looks to be brutal: @New England, Pittsburgh, @Oakland, @Philadelphia, Kansas City and @NY Jets. If they lose this week, they may easily go into the bye week at 1 and 8 or worse. The Chargers need this game to boost their confidence and get things on the right track...and my once confident predictions and faith in the Chargers has all been washed away. I think Nate Kaeding will out-kick Jay Feely in a snorefest... Chargers win 12-6 ... incompetence exhibited by both teams on both sides of the ball. Chargers will prove that they were indeed a one-year fluke and more importantly that the coaching staff are mindless, incompetent boobs.

Observations

Have you ever noticed that really good looking women/girls always have long hair? And then a really good looking woman/girl that cuts their long hair off, does so as sort of an admission that they are no longer going to try and be 'hot'.

Also, I noticed Kirstie Alley is back on the tube showing off her new, thinner bod. I of course was on record saying that it sure was curious that she was all over the tv in February and seemed to be MIA since then...Well, I will give credit where credit is due...good job Kirstie, it took you 8 months to lose 50 pounds...definately proves that you can't get thin quick as many diet plans claim...

Random Thoughts

Here's some random thoughts:

- The Comedy Central show, The Mind Of Mencia is the network's attempt to replace Dave Chappelle's hit show...well, it's not going to do it. It is dumb and not funny. And for whatever reason, I've just never 'understood' mexican/latin humor. George Lopez never seemed funny to me either. Cheech and Chong, seemed funny but these new guys...not funny. The staged jokes on this show are just lame, and (is it Carlos?) Mencia just YELLS out dumb obvious observations that aren't really funny...just obvious observations that he is yelling.... yawn. Adam Corrolla's show and David Spade's show seem alright... I'll watch them to see if they keep my interest.

- How much does every person in America need to give to the hurricane Katrina relief fund before we get to stop hearing about it and/or having fund-raisers?

- What a great change it was to go a week without having to hear Mike Patrick, Paul Maguire and Joe Theismann doing the Sunday night football game. Sunday night football was a rare treat when ESPN had Mike Tirico and Sterling Sharpe doing the game... I'll likely be driving from a poker shoot this weekend while my Chargers are playing, so I'll just be listening to the radio call...which I would be doing if I was watching it at home as well.

- Speaking of football, and living in the heart of Viking country, it sure is great hearing all these Viking fans doing a one-eighty. 6 months ago when they traded Randy Moss you couldn't find a Viking fan who thought that was a bad move. Viking fans had celebration parties and planned for the Super Bowl... getting rid of Randy Moss was the greatest move EVER. It's looking a lot like Herschal Walker II to me... Dante sure isn't looking that good. The defense - which was to be greatly improved because the money saved by trading Moss was devoted solely to improving the defense - looks as bad as ever. All the Vikes have going for them is that they play in one of the weakest divisions in the NFL...they should split with the Lions and Packers...maybe the Bears too... eek out a couple other wins and go at least 6-10.

- Vacation, vacation, vacation... I have a ton of vacation and no time to take it. I need to use it by January 1st or I will lose it. I should have opportunities to take it from November thru the end of the year...but what am I to do? I am actually thinking of flying out to San Diego to see the Chargers play on Dec. 31st. That sure would be fun to get out of the cold that will surely be upon us at that time and be in the sun for a week. Of course the only buzz-kill would probably be the Chargers...at least in their current state. But what else? And if I decide not to partake on that trip (I'm trying to save up for a new vehicle) then what? I got to do something!


- Currently in pain... I was involved in an accident when I was a teenager (I think it was when I was 14 or 15). Since that time, I have had a bloated spinal disc (lumbar 4) that is pinching my sciatic nerve that runs down my left leg. Most days, I have no problems and feel fine. I play tennis, go biking, shoot baskets, mow the lawn, etc. But occasionally, I will do something that will aggravate it and to various degrees. Sometimes I am barely able to stand and walk, while other times it is just uncomfortable...currently I'm in the extremely uncomfortable state. If I didn't have meetings and other things to tend to at work, I'd be staying home right now...maybe tomorrow if I don't feel much better.


- As mentioned above, I am doing another poker shoot. This next one is at the Grand Casino in Mille Lacs, MN. I am planning on driving up and back on the same day. It's only a 3 hour drive, so won't be too bad....except that it is on a Sunday and I'll be missing most, if not all, football games played during the day and then, again as mentioned above, only able to listen to the Charger-Giants game on radio as I drive home. Maybe with some luck, I could get back into town to catch the 2nd half or something, but probably not likely. I very rarely miss watching football and I can not even recall the last time I didn't get to watch the Charger game...but I desperately need a new vehicle and the money I'm making will help greatly towards that...not to mention the money I save by not drinking/eating/partying all day on Sunday won't hurt the cause either...

Offensive Line - No Protection and No Blocking

The Chargers at halftime were up 14-3 and looked like they were in total control of this game. Then the second half started.... on the first play from scrimmage Brees throws an interception to Champ Bailley who runs it in for a touchdown, bam the Broncos are right back into the game.

The playcalling in the second half was absolutely horrible. There was no blocking for Tomlinson, he couldn't even get going...but the only play the Chargers even ran was a handoff up the gut...what's wrong with a swing pass or a screen? Even a pitch out....anything.... but no. If Tomlinson got the ball, run up the middle. Then the Broncos must have tuned into last week's game against the Cowboys...how do you beat the Chargers? Just blitz. The Chargers did nothing to counter the blitz and Brees had a tough time the entire second half.

This game really crystalizes how poor Marty Schottenheimer and his staff is. Clearly not making adjustments. Not having plays that would be utilizing the weapons the Chargers have under blitz circumstances. And for the 2nd week in a row, the opponent did as much as they could to try and lose the game and the Chargers still couldn't win. The Broncos missed 2 field goals, had 2 touchdowns called back and turned the ball over twice while in Charger territory. Defense played better, but I think that is mainly due to the fact that the Broncos aren't that good. If the Charger defense could of stopped a 4th and 2 attempt the game would have went to overtime....so the defense played good until they had too....just like last week.

There will be no Charger domination. Is the season over for the Chargers? Well no... but there is no darker day than losing to the most hated team in the NFL...the Denver Broncos. What makes this loss even more tough to handle is that EVERY sports commentator will be going off on how the Chargers were a one year fluke last year...but at this point, they may be right... I was hoping the Chargers would prove them wrong...but have yet to.

Chargers - Broncos Preview

Week 2 is almost here and the Chargers are looking to get their first win...to do so, they will have to win in Denver.

I was pretty disgruntled after last weeks loss, because even with several key players either sidelined or seeing limited action, I felt they should have played better. And sure, it's week 1, but if you start making excuses as to why you lost a game, soon you will be losing more than winning and this franchise can ill-afford that. There are several national sports-writers who deemed the Chargers success last year as a 'fluke' and that they were a one-year wonder. I tend to think the opposite and that the Chargers have the building blocks for a solid squad for years to come, but they will have to prove it on the field before more folks will believe that.

A key injury could be offensive lineman Fonoti, who broke his right hand. Fonoti, and the rest of the offensive line, got beat often last week against a blitz-happy cowboys defense...but Fonoti is a solid run-blocker and is often paving the path for Tomlinson. The team says Fonoti will start and is good to go, but playing with a broken hand has to be less than comfortable.

Denver's defense looked worse than the Chargers last week. With Antonio Gates returning, McCardell emerging as true #1 wide out, this all should mean Tomlinson should find room to run. I look for the Chargers offense to really control the tempo of the game. I also think Denver's offense is less than stellar. It could be a good confidence builder if the secondary and defensive line can perform, setting the tone for the rest of the season. I really think this is a good opportunity for the Chargers to play a solid game and come out with a victory. If the Chargers lose a close game, pending circumstances, may not be the end of their season. But if the Chargers get their asses handed to them and get a beat down, I will seriously question any chance of them being competitive this season.

Chargers 34 Denver 24

Blogger For Word Plugin

I said it once and I’ll say it again, Blogger.com continues to impress me with their new features. They now have a Microsoft Word plugin that allows a person to compose and publish their blog entries using Word. Now is that handy or what? It doesn't support images, yet, but looks to be pretty handy...

Homosexuality

Wow, what a title huh? Homosexuality.... and what could I possibly have to say about it? Well, I will preface my remarks with this: First and foremost, I don't care if you like to have sex with bunnies, as long as your sexuality isn't pushed on me, I think you should have equal rights and equal treatment. Of course, I do take great exception with pedaphiles and rapists, but that is an entirely different subject. But if you are a gay or lesbian, I typically don't have a problem with you. But here's some of my observations regarding the gay and lesbian community.

Without getting into a debate of whether being gay/lesbian is genetic or not...because I really don't care... it is my observation that most gay/lesbian people are 'young adults', with of course exceptions...but again, my observation is that most are young adults. Take note next time you see and/or hear something about a gay/lesbian group...odds are is that it is being headed up by someone in their late 20's/early 30's but the crowd of supporters is typically made up of college aged (or thereabouts) folks. And because of this I have developed this 'theory' about being gay/lesbian, that is: I think many gay and lesbian people are gay and lesbian because 1) they think it is cool and 2) they are seeking acceptance from someone/anyone and this 'group' is willing to empower any and every person that seeks their acceptance.

Now is my theory 100% dead on regarding the entire community? Absolutely not. My theory is just applicaple to many of the young adults out there that think they are gay/lesbian. I live in a community that has 3 large colleges (relatively speaking) and several smaller tech/trade schools and the gay/lesbian groups are fairly well organized and outspoken in the community and on the college campuses. You travel 300 miles to the west to my hometown with about 25% less people, but more importantly, only 1 junior college and a smaller university (relatively speaking) and you see and hear nothing about gay/lesbian group(s) or activities.

What am I trying to say? Well, first and again, I really don't care if you are gay and/or lesbian, let me make that clear. But I think that many of the young adults that claim to be gay/lesbian are doing it at a time when they just want to 'give it a try'...just like doing drugs in college for the first time so to speak...but as they get older, may find out that it really is just a 'fad' or phase that they are going through...and not that there is anything wrong with that...

Season Kickoff Hangover

So the Charger game outcome wasn't the one I expected, nor wanted, but that did not deter me and some buddies from having a good time watching football all day and drinking way too much. Here's two pictures I managed to take on my phone...the first one is during a 'layover' as we traveled from one bar to the next before the late game started and stopped by a friends house to pick him up and of course have a couple of drinks. The second is at our final destination...It was 2 hours after that photo that I had to go home because I couldn't stand anymore....didn't eat anything all day and drank way too much... but was a good time and I was in bed by 11, so I made it to work with little problems...but I'm definately not moving very fast and I'm not so sure if I'll make it through the Monday night game tonight...but we'll see... I noticed I still had plenty of beer in the fridge! :)

Happy season kickoff everyone!

Disgusting

All the hope and optimism I had for the Chargers was washed away in week 1. Like last year, the Chargers proved me wrong, but unlike last year, this time it is not in a positive way.

The Charger defense was absolutely horrible. The Cowboys were able to run the ball at will and the secondary was equally bad. Yet, the Cowboys made several mistakes and the Chargers had opportunities to win this game and failed to do so.

A horrible punt late in the game gives the Cowboys great field position, then a face masking penalty gives the Cowboys a first and goal rather than a 4th down on the 12 and the Cowboys get the go ahead score. Then with under a minute to go, the Chargers had hope... a first and 10 on the Cowboys 12 after a 33 yard completion from Brees to Eric Parker on 4th and 12. The Chargers had 4 chances to win the game and not one time was the ball given to LaDanian Tomlinson...who the Cowboys held in check most of the day, but regardless, either a designed run or pass play to Tomlinson should have been attempted with the game on the line. Instead 3 incomplete passes and the fourth was tipped and intercepted to end the game.

This was a game a good team would have found a way to win, and sure it's still only week 1 and a lot of football is yet to be played, but losing games like this is never good. Having Antonio Gates in the game may have been the difference, but again, good teams will find a way to win regardless of their personnel.

This is hopefully the wake up call and the Chargers can answer the bell next week against the Broncos because the schedule isn't going to get any easier and most had the Chargers winning this game. But if no improvement or changes are made on the defensive side of the ball, high powered teams like the Colts and Patriots will easily prey on the Charger secondary.

Football Season Begining

I am a sports junkie...most anyone that knows me at all knows this... I watch almost any and all 'real' sports, and primarily the big four - NBA, MLB, NFL and NHL. But there is NO doubt that my favorite sport, like most other red-blooded American males, is the NFL. And tonight's kickoff of the 2005-06 NFL season is close to being a holiday for us NFL fans. This season is also a rare one for myself and many a San Diego Charger fan in that I am optimistic about the Chargers. I have been a Charger fan for 25 years now, and for about 20 of those years the season began with little hope and I would rarely have any anticipation in seeing them.

But not this year my friends. This is a whole new Charger era. I think the Chargers can and should do well this year for two reasons...first, they are a young team with great leaders. LaDanian Tomlinson is one of those 'Barry Sanders type' guys. He leads by example and wants to be a Charger. He doesn't hold out for more money, ask for his contract to be renegotiated, doesn't get arrested or do any of the other stuff other 'superstar' athletes might do. The only thing LaDanian has said prior to this season is that he is aiming to break Marshall Faulk's record for most yards from scrimmage and would like to break 2,000 yards rushing...man, I am going to love watching him try!

Besides Tomlinson the Chargers got Drew Brees who is out to prove that last year was not a fluke. Brees went into last season with the attitude that he was the starting quarterback and it was his job to lose...well, the situation is still the same. With Phillip Rivers still waiting in the wings, Brees will have to prove that he has developed into a NFL caliber quarterback and by doing so, will be the quarterback of the Chargers for several years.

Antonio Gates is in the same boat as Brees. Last year was his coming out party and he is also out to prove that he is not a 'one season wonder'. He certainly has the skills that should keep him among the top tight ends in the league.

The defense is always an issue with the Chargers...specifically the pass defense. The Chargers' draft focused on getting players that can help with a non-existent pass rush. If the Chargers can get any sort of pressure on the quarterback, it will greatly help the secondary - and the secondary, which is often the focus of many critics of the Charger defense, I think is respectable. And the secondary is only as good as their pass rush. Quentin Jammer - those that watch a Charger game may only see or hear Jammer's name when he gets his one or two pass interferences that he gets per game...but the player Jammer is defending will rarely have any completions and more importantly no scores. He has developed into a nice shutdown corner.

Now on to the second reason I think the Chargers should do well this year...because the Chiefs and Broncos both stink...or at least I think they will. I think the Chargers should win the AFC West almost by default. Of course they need to play the games to prove me right, but I really can't see why or how the Broncos and/or the Chiefs pose much threat to any legitimate team...and that's really where it's at. To be a good team you need to beat the teams you should beat and if the Chargers want to be a legitimate NFL contender, they need to dispose of these two weaker teams.

But enough talk...let's play some ball!

Weak One: Chargers vs Dallas, my prediction: Chargers 38 Dallas 17

Go Chargers!

X Fire

Yes, I like playing games. You will now be able to see how much time I waste playing games courtesy of Xfire. They track a wide variety of games and how much you play them...and then make that neat little graphic you can post on your website or use as a signature on your favorite forum like you see on the left hand side, last image of my blog...

And for the record, it is my daughter who is playing Sims 2....

Close To Normal

With the Labor Day Weekend gone by, my routine returns to as close to 'normal' as it can be, but football season does mean I'm working more weekends and generally a bit more work to be done each week to prepare for those games... as well as the occassional concert, theatre and trade show that take place in between games... I usually remain consistently busy from now until April/May...but it keeps me out of trouble!

Labor Day has traditionally meant that we go to the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion (WMSTR) in Rollag, MN with my parents. When I was young, we would travel from Bismarck to Rollag almost every Labor Day to go to the WMSTR...we started going in 1973.

It is the second largest exposition of old-time equipment in the nation. There are steam tractors, trains, steam powered saw-mills, minature land, a steam press, horse farm (everything is done by horse power), flour mill and more. It had rained early in the morning on Saturday so we waited until after lunch so the grounds could dry up a bit...and as a result might have been one of the best trips ever. Crowds were light, short lines for food and rides, although the managers of the event probably would have wanted more people, for us that did attend on Saturday, it was great. The past few times I have gone the weather was extraordinarily good and the crowd was large, meaning long waits for everything...so this was a pleasant change. This event was close to being like Christmas for my 3-year old son...he has yet to stop talking about the steamers...

Sunday was my fantasy football league darft, my starters are Tom Brady, Clinton Portis, Stephen Davis, Steve Smith, Derrick Mason, Antonio Gates, Nate Kaeding and Baltimore Defense. A 14 team league means it gets pretty thin at RB in a hurry... I also have Tatum Bell. After the draft the drinkfest continued, with my wife even coming out to join us. Monday then was devoted to hanging with the kids and a nice nap in the afternoon with an early bed time so I feel well rested today at work...

Week 'O Hell Has Ended

Well I survived the week from hell... but barely.

I'm leaving work at noon today (maybe earlier), going to get some yard work done and maybe catch a nap before the wife and kids get home. Folks coming down to visit for the weekend, fantasy football draft on Sunday.

In less than 10 hours from this post, you can rest assured I will be consuming alcohol and will stop sometime Monday evening.

Hope everyone has a safe Labor Day weekend...

When I Said Busy... I Mean Busy!

So today will probably be the last chance I get to post anything here until next week and with my schedule filling to capacity with every passing minute, postings might be thin for the next week or so... here's some highlights of my upcoming events:

Tonight: Chargers-Vikes... I will watch at least the first half, if not the entire game. Friday is also poker night with some of my buddies, so will play some cards.

Saturday Morning/Afternoon: My last chance, and only opportunity to hang with the family...specifically the kids for the weekend because...

Saturday Evening: I've been doing some freelance technical directing for a regional poker show. Have done 2 shows so far and this next one is in Wisconsin...a 5 1/2 hour drive one way...ugh. I will be only driving a few hundred miles and then jumping in with some other crew members. Arrive around midnight.

Sunday: Set up and direct poker shoot until about 7:30 PM...then hop in a car and bee-line it back home, hopefully get home around 2 AM.

Then all of next week is preparing for the first football game on September 1st...plus get trained on the new switcher I had installed earlier this year. And in the meantime...been invited to attend our local minor league baseball team game on Tuesday and my company picnic (at the exact same ballpark with a game to follow) is on Wednesday... so with the exception of Monday (which I plan on sleeping in a bit), from 8 AM until (at least) 11 PM Tuesday-Thursday almost every second of my time is allocated to doing something.... I just know that I will be doing some drinking Labor Day weekend... I've ran a fantasy football league since 1996 (hey, 10th anniversary is this year...didn't even realize that until now...) and the draft will be held Sunday. My league has always been an 'auction' style draft (way ahead of the curve, I know!) and takes about 4-5 hours...which means 4-5 hours of drinking and then after the draft all participants typically go to a bar to continue with the football talk...it is the only time all members of my league are ever all together for 3 members are from out of town and make the yearly quest to the draft.

So lots of shit going on for me, then lots of drinking... it's a busy time for me, but at the same time it can be a fun time for me... but as I mentioned before, being this busy just takes time from me that I could be doing things (like blogging) that I frequently do in my free time...

Busy!!!

As many may know (or maybe not), I work at a venue that's primary tenant is the local Division 1-AA football team (NDSU)...

With the college football season quickly approaching...my workload is greatly increased over the next few months, which prevents me from doing a lot of things I like to do with the free time I am graced with during the offseason...

So I am basically apologizing for lack of content...but I will continue to post as time permits...

Hope everyone had a great summer, but for some of us, it's time to get back to work and unfortunately I have too...

In conclusion... Go Chargers!

Gates Signs 6 Year Deal

From Chargers.com:

The San Diego Chargers signed Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates to a new six-year contract, just one day after returning to the team. No other terms of the contract were disclosed.

“This was our goal from the beginning ... to sign him to a long-term contract,” said General Manager A.J. Smith. “Antonio has been a model representative for the team and we believe he has a tremendous future in this league.”

“I said yesterday that I was pretty sure something would get done, but I didn’t know it would get done this quickly,” said Gates. “I’m grateful to the Chargers for seeing potential in me two years ago and now for having faith in me and wanting me to be a part of this team for a long time.”

In just his second NFL season and second season on the football field since high school, Gates led the team with 81 receptions, 964 yards and 13 touchdowns, an NFL record for tight ends. He was also voted to the AFC Pro Bowl squad.

###

Well it looks like everything turned out as good I as hoped it could. Gates will miss the first regular season game, which sucks, but what can ya do... should mean he will be really fresh for that week 2 game at Denver. I think Gates, himself, had some words with his agent - especially after yesterday's contradicting statements from himself and his agent - that had his agent accepting a 6 year deal with the Chargers, against his previous statements that they were seeking just a 3 year deal.

I'm just glad that this final piece to the Chargers offense from last year is in place. The Chargers, on a whole, are fairly young and talented team that have laid the groundwork for many successful seasons to come...let's hope it materializes!

Go Chargers!

A Gates Of Confusion

It seems as if everytime I post something regarding Antonio Gates (ie: that he will report to camp on Sunday) something changes to contradict the initial reports...

Well, here we go again...

In this AP story, Gates contradicts what his agent, Andre Colona, has said regarding their contract negotiation's deadline of September 11th (the first regular season game). Gates claims that negotiations can continue past that date:

``Absolutely,'' Gates said when asked if he'd negotiate through the season. ``The door is definitely open to negotiation. We're still talking. Things are going perfectly fine right now.''

Whereas both Charger GM and Gates' agent agree that "talks are dead in the water."

Add to the story this bizarre twist... Gates is claiming that he couldn't get a plane to get to San Diego by the Saturday deadline, but he was trying. This is probably an attempt to get reinstated for the first regular season game, something his agent also said was possible but appearing very unlikely.

To me, it appears as if Gates and his agent are either a) not talking or b) not agreeing to how things are progressing. And with today's technology and the dollars at stake, I have to think that them not talking to each other is highly unlikely. I think Gates is frustrated with his agent. I think Antonio wants to be dressed and playing football for the San Diego Chargers today and in the future. Maybe his agent is looking out for the best interestes of his client and trying to secure the dollars Antonio rightfully deserves, but some times I think you need to take a step back and realize that if Antonio is as good as all of us Charger fans hope he can be, he will not have to worry about money... and I think the Charger organization want to give Antonio a fair deal, but don't want to get a raw deal. Is it so bad for a player to sign a deal that is fair to both the club and for the player? Does one side have to get the better end of a deal?

Gates Signs

AP article here details the Antonio Gates signing/story. Although Gates' agent may have originally thought that Gates' inactive status could be changed prior to the first game, allowing him to play, from everything detailed in this latest article seems to contradict that and it appears as if Gates will miss the first regular season game against Dallas.

Also, Gates' agent said that he/Gates is willing to negotiate a new contract up to that first game against Dallas, after that they will not. So there is still some hope that Gates could be secured for future seasons with the Chargers.

Chargers-Rams Preseason Game II

Watched most all of the second preseason game (DirecTV - NFL Channel already paying off!) - Rams vs Chargers yesterday. Again, I preface my comments with that I really don't care about preseason...

Tomlinson carried the ball one time, but it was for a 55 yard touchdown...hopefully that will be the last preseason carry for him. It was good to see Kaeding off the schnide and make 2 field goals and hopefully his confidence will be restored. The offensive line has looked really good these 2 first preseason games...the 'other' Charger runningbacks had good runs themselves...Micheal Turner has looked pretty good as probably the backup to Tomlinson. Defense looked solid for the first half and wasn't until scrubs were put before the Rams were able to really put together any significant offense.

Antonio Gates reported and signed a contract today (Monday) one day after what was previously reported. And from what I've heard from Gates' agent is that Antonio will sign and play with the Chargers this year but probably won't be happy and won't be a Charger next season... which really sucks if this is true. Hopefully both sides can come to some agreement before this season ends, Gates' gets a nice contract and remains a Charger...but isn't sounding all that likely right now...

iToilet

And with the recent unveiling of the new iMac, Steve Jobs
had an idea.
"I have an idea!" he said. "Since most folks seem to think our new iMac is just a really really expensive desk lamp, maybe we should start manufacturing household appliances!"

Steve then danced around a bit, before adding "Hey! Since we're in the business of making crap, why not start with a toilet?!"

And so the iToilet was born. Apple fanatics the world over applauded the idea. Everyone else paid no attention.

Visit the IToilet Web Site here for the complete writeup on the iToilet.

Gates To Report Sunday

Latest news from the San Diego Tribune has Antonio Gates reporting to Charger camp tomorrow (Sunday 8/21). But was placed on the inactive roster today for missing the 'deadline' established by the Chargers to report or be placed on the inactive roster which will have him miss the season opener (Link To Chargers Statement Regarding Antonio Gates Missing Deadline). Of course there is some 'stipulations' that could allow Gates to play.

Towards the end of the article is what I think is what I'm most interesting in hearing about.... that Gates wants a 3 year deal while the Chargers want a 6 year deal... and it sounds like the 6 year deal is what is going to come about and it's just a matter of money now....

So long story short is that Gates will be in camp tomorrow. Hopefully news of a new contract securing Gates for possibly the next 6 years shortly follows. Gates is dressed and starting all regular season games. Hopefully both sides are satisfied and Gates and the Chargers succeed for years to come...

Gates Holding Firm

Word from Antonio Gates' camp regarding the contract talks is not good. The Chargers sent the 'ultimatum letter' this past Saturday and it states that if Gates does not report by Saturday he will be put on the inactive roster for 3 games which would include the first regular season game. The latest SDUT article has Gates' agent (Andre Colona) not offering any encouraging news for Charger fans regarding the ultimatum, stating: "It doesn't change Antonio's and my plans at all," Colona said. "We are going to go forward with our game plan. That letter does not change what Antonio and I had agreed on doing up to that point."

But as the article points out, by all appearances the Chargers have the upper-hand in negotiations. Gates can become a restricted free agent in the offseason, which gives the Chargers the option to match any offer made by any other team, but Gates needs to play in at least 6 regular season games for even that to take place. Also, if you take what the Chargers are saying at face value, that they are willing to give Antonio the league minimum for a player at his position and tenure right now ($380,000) and are willing to renegotiate, but they just want Gates in camp. If Gates and his agent think that by sitting out is going to pressure the Charger management to cave, he is sorely mistaken and in the end both the Chargers and Gates will lose...which sucks primarily for us Charger/Gates fans who would like to see Gates in all 16 games this season...

Update: Yes It Did Suck

Just a follow-up, I am literally 10 minutes out of the chair - screw going back to work...

Yes, for 1 hour and 45 minutes I was worked on, the entire time sucked ass... crown to be installed in 2 weeks...

And my insurance will pay 60%...so that means I'm out at least $450...minimum....

Did I mention that this whole 'deal' really sucks.... not only is someone inflicting the most uncomfortable pain that is legally possible and then as soon as they are done doing that to you, they say thanks and come again as they hand you THE BILL....oh joy, I get to pay for all this fun too... I can hardly wait to come back in 2 weeks to endure some more.... oh, and when's my next cleaning? I hope that's soon too so that I can spend some good quality time at the freakin' dentist office..... ugh

Man Is This Going To Suck...

A week or two ago I began to notice that one of my molars (tooth) was starting to ache when ever I chewed food using that tooth. I have a dental appointment coming up in a couple of weeks and figured if I could 'tough' it out I could have my dentist look at it when I go in for my routine checkup. Well, my tooth couldn't hold out that long... just the other night while eathing a peanut butter and jelly sandwich my tooth fell aprart. It seems as if the filling is still 'inside' of the tooth, but 1 corner of the tooth is now gone...

So in about 20 minutes from this post I should be sitting in a dentist's chair either undergoing or about too undergo some really uncomfortable and more than likely, somewhat painful dental procedures. I'm pretty sure a crown for that tooth is what will be coming my way... and what really sucks is that the dental insurance I have through my work is totally crappy... So not only will the actual procedure suck for me, the paying for it will be equally painful, making this entire experience a really crappy time....

Chargers Issue Gates Ultimatum

So the Charger front office has set a deadline for holdout, All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates. If Gates does not report and sign a contract by 12:30 PM on Saturday the Chargers are prepared to suspend him through at least the first regular season game. They are using the rationale that the staff needs to know who their tight ends will be once the season starts.

I have two comments regarding this matter...first, I know who the Chargers should have as their starting tight end... Antonio Gates. To supsend or not allow him to play is not a smart move. Second, this move is being seen as a method to accellerate contract talks, which hopefully will encourage a conclusion to the talks, but if things don't get agreed upon and turn ugly, the Chargers may have just lost or disgruntled one of their best players...which won't be good for the team...

The Non-Exploitation Of Women

I love those that decry the evils of the exploitation of women for no other reason than to view their stupidity. You see, those that seek to stop the rampant exploitation of women typically tend to be ugly and/or lesbian women, because any woman that is not ugly or a lesbian almost earns to be exploited at some time, and here's my tale to illustrate this...

As I was returning to work from my lunch break a local team of some sort was having a car wash. To advertise this car wash they had a couple of girls in bikini's on the corner of a fairly busy intersection and one that I was using at the time. Now these girls weren't ugly but they definately were not in the eye-popping, accident causing class of hot chicks that you may sometimes encounter. So as luck would have it I hit the red light and end up stopped right besides the girls...so of course they begin to try and coax me into their car wash and even though my excuse was legit in that I needed to return back to work, they refused to believe that I would want to pass up their car wash...they even made a point to tell me that the car wash was all college girls that would be doing the work...

You see, the actual car wash - to them and probably everyone else in the world with a clue - is actually non-essential. Your car may not even be clean after they finished 'washing' it, but that is not the point...they want you to park your vehicle and watch them 'wash' your car and figure that must be worth $5 or whatever the going rate is... They actually think the 'value' of their car wash is not the car wash itself, but who is doing the washing...

And let me make this clear...I'm an avid supporter in the exploitation of women, especially when the women are willing participants in the exploitation... now granted if the girls were all well-endowed and were wearing white t-shirts and had more of a water fight than a car wash, I may have had a few minutes to spare...but I digress...I'm just tired of hearing anyone trying to explain to me how it is demeaning to women, when in fact most women are promoters of the activity themselves even at the most basic, innocent levels.

Preseason Game 1 - Chargers/Packers Thoughts

Preseason wins/losses mean nothing to me...as I've stated many times...but of course fans of their respective teams will watch these games to catch a glimpse of some of the stars of tomorrow...so here are my quick thoughts about last nights game...

Most glaring is the fact that Nate Kaeding missed all three of his field goal attempts. It was raining and the conditions were far from ideal for a kicker. I hope he gets these misses out of his system during the preseason rather than the regular season. The kid has got a great leg and hopefully he will shake this poor outing off.

Phillip Rivers played the 2nd and 3rd quarters and didn't look too bad. The offensive line looked really good, several of the Charger runningbacks had respectable runs. Matt Wilhelm looked real good on defense, seen around the ball on almost every play he was on the field. I thought the Chargers looked good...but mostly scrubs and backups played, so it is really tough for me to get overly excited...

Some observations:

First: ESPN's Suzy Kolber, could she please emphasize more...look at her neck sometime and I think her neck is about to constrict her...but unfortunately it never happened. And can she be any dumber? After all the ESPN 'talent' (and that word is used extremely loosely in this case) rave about how great the Packer fans are and how 'die hard' they are, not an empty seat for a preseason game (until midway through the third quarter and the game was still tied...die hard), Suzy interviews two such fans that have attended every game for 35 years. She asks essentially the same question 4 times to get little to no coherent reply and then asks what was their favorite game they've been to in the 35 years they've came to Lambeau...the interviewee says Green Bav vs San Diego in a playoff game... just proves how 'die hard' these fans are...they barely even know where they are at...

Second: The hat that Marty wore last night was butt-ugly. Hope those find a garbage can before the regular season starts.

Third and finally, I am already tired of that pathetic ESPN announcing crew of Thiesmann, Maguire and Mike Patrick...but that is just a carry over from years past...god are they the most annoying, bickering, blathering idiots doing football? All they need is Randy Cross and Dan Dierdorf and they'd have every moron doing games on one cast...

Pre-Game Notes

San Diego Union Tribune's Kevin Acee put in this preseason - pregame report regarding tonight's Charger-Packer preseason contest. Quick notes from the article are that as previously mentioned, Donnie Edwards and Shawne Merriman didn't make the trip to Lambeau and thus won't be playing. Also that LaDanian Tomlinson won't be playing either...which every Charger fan is more than happy to agree with Marty on that decision. Acee also is reporting that Phillip Rivers will take most of the snaps tonight and that wide receivers Keneen McCardell and Eric Parker will only see limited action...if any.

Goodbye Cable, Hello Direct TV

For several years I've contemplated getting rid of cable tv and switching to DirectTV...my wife was totally opposed to it because she didn't want to lose our local channels...about a year ago (or so) DirectTV started carrying the locals but for whatever reasons...probably just laziness...I still hadn't made the switch. Well, with the NHL tv deal apparently settled and going to Comcast cable - which my cable company is not affiliated with - was the final issue that had me making the switch. I reviewed the channel lineups and the pricing in the past and have no regrets about making this switch. For the same price I am getting approximately 100 more channels...sure I probably won't watch most of them like I don't watch most of my current cable channels now...but at least I know I won't miss out on the NHL and also have the option to subscribe to NHL Center Ice which will enable me to watch more hockey than I ever could before.

I am almost giddy to call my local cable company tomorrow to tell them that I want to discontinue my service with them and hope they ask why...and the reasons are simple... more channels for less money. Plus to have the options of getting NFL Sunday Ticket and NHL Center Ice, something cable isn't offering, are a big bonus as well. Plus, a cheaper route for me to watch even more sports is to subscribe to DTV's sports package which has every Fox Sports region...which almost all carry their regional NBA, MLB and NHL teams. I also am looking forward to getting a digital signal for all the channels, something my local cable company also was doing.

Charger Buzz Has Been Good - My Predictions

Well the buzz around the Chargers from most national sports writers has been pretty good so far... ESPN's John Clayton has this article detailing how Brees and Tomlinson both look more fit than they did last season. Rivers is struggling a bit in camp, but with Brees as the undisputed starter has some time to find his groove. And that Darren Sproles is 'electric' and will add an explosive element to the special teams of the Chargers.

Another Clayton article then goes on to detail the tough schedule that the Chargers have this season...which will either prove that they are truly a much improved team or that the 2004 season was a fluke. And if you haven't had a chance to look at the Charger schedule, take a look for yourself and by all appearances looks to be as tough as you can get for a NFL team.

Speaking of schedule, here's my prediction for the upcoming Charger season: I think winning the first 3 (Dallas, @Denver, Giants) is realistic. Denver, I think, will compete for the doormat of the AFC West. Plummer sucks and their wide receivers are old and fragile and then they sign Jerry Rice. Clarrett is already hurt. When Eli comes to San Diego it should hopefully be a slaughter with Eli being the slaughteree. The next 6 games (@NE, Pit, @Oak, @Phi, KC, @NYJ) before the bye is a tough stretch...4 away games against formidable teams. It would be nice to go 3 and 3 during this time and head into the bye at 6 and 3. I think Pittsburgh (and especially Rothlisberger) was a fluke more than any team last year. Kansas City I don't think has improved that much at all...if they did improve their defense, now their offense looks weak. The Jets have the Chargers number and it would be nice to get some redemption from last years playoff loss, but I won't count on it. Then the final 7 games (Buf, @Was, Oak, Miami, @Indy, @KC, Den) look to be more promising and I would like to see a 5 and 2 finish to end up 11-5. What's the deal with the Chargers having to go to Indianapolis two years in a row? Can't the Colts make a trip to San Diego? Seems a little unfair that the NFL schedules the Chargers to be on the road one of the better teams two years in a row...not to mention that last year the Chargers should have beaten the Colts and was the game that Manning broke the single season TD passing mark in...I've already grown tired of seeing that highlight.

Of course I would like to qualify my prediction with the following: Antonio Gates needs to be signed and playing. I think he is a huge part of the Charger offense and if he is not on the field it will cost the Chargers games. So hopefully he will get signed and into camp before the regular season starts and won't miss any games.

Just to wrap this up... my AFC West predictions:

1. Chargers - Reasons stated above.
2. Raiders - I think Moss is going to help and the Raiders could be in contention for a wild card, but don't have all the pieces to overthrow the reigning champs...at least not right now.
3. Chiefs - As stated above, may have improved their defense, but not enough and now I even question their offensive ability. Their wide receivers don't impress me and Holmes, since getting hurt 2 seasons ago, hasn't been as dominant as he once was.
4. Broncos - As long as Jake Plummer is their quarterback I feel no threat from the Broncos. Add to that the team looks as if it is actually worse than it was last year... I don't see them winning 6 games this year.

Edwards & Merriman Staying Back

Just out, Marty Schottenheimer just announced that veteran linebacker Donnie Edwards and number 1 pick Shawne Merriman will not be making the trip to Green Bay for tomorrow's preseason game. Edwards has an ankle injury and Merriman a hamtring injury.

No qualms here...let's keep our starters healthy.

Others that will be staying behind include tight end Ryan Krause (foot), offensive tackle Courtney VanBuren (knee), wide receiver Malcom Floyd (calf), and linebacker Ben Leber (foot) will remain in San Diego.

Full Story Here.

Chargers First Preseason Game Approaches

Tomorrow the San Diego Chargers will play their first preseason game in Green Bay against the Packers. Although I put no credence in preseason games, I will be watching just to get my first real dose of Charger football for this year. In fact, I am hoping that no key players even take to the field and if so are used very sparingly.

Of course there are things I'd like to see, regardless of who is playing...namely to see how the defense overall performs, especially in the pass rush. The buzz about rookie special teamer Darren Sproles has been really good, so we'll see how he does on kickoffs and punt returns. And of course Vincent Jackson has been very impressive so far, yet with McCardell, Caldwell and Parker will look to get a more prominent role in the starting lineup.

I can hardly wait for this season to start and more importantly, Charger Domination!

New Rules For 2005 Season

NFL Officials were in San Diego late last week reviewing new rule changes for the 2005-06 season... so from the official web site of the San Diego Chargers (chargers.com) here they are:

The following rules were also highly emphasized in the meeting which will be in effect for the 2005 season:

• If a defensive foul is a dead ball personal foul following the end of the second or fourth quarter, the offensive team may choose to extend the period for one untimed down.
• “Peel-back” blocks by offensive linemen are now 15-yard penalties and may be means for a possible fine. If a blocker drifts outside the tackle-to-tackle box and then comes back in on the side of a defender's knee, the player will be penalized.
• Hits on opponents away from the play is cause for unnecessary roughness
• An illegal touching foul committed by a player on the kicking team inside the 15 yard line can result in a touchback if receiving team elects to do so. This rule was proposed by the Chargers following an incident that took place in their Wild Card game against the Jets.
  

(Full story here)

Justifying The Cheaters

On my favorite online fantasy sport game, Jock$tocks, there was a good dialogue about steroid use and whether or not to believe the extremity of the accusations because of the source...namely the media. I had a few drinks late last night and came up with this response and I like it, so I will re-post it here...

Propaganda has run rampant...both for and against the whole steroid issue...

I'm the first to cast stones at the mainstream media... and am willing to see its willingness to exploit a non-story.... I will agree to all this....

But the entire steroid issue is not new... and I would argue that has not been exploited by the media... and if you think it has now...

Just think if all the doubt about Barry Bonds would actually come to fruition.. right now everyone...and I mean EVERYONE suspects his steroid use... but if undeniable evidence came forth that would even squelch the naysayers... the ramifications for the entire league would be astounding... I'm saying right now that the MLB is making a calculated effort to keep as much of the steroid use/abuse in the shadows as are the players.

Like or dislike the media, trust or distrust the reports... in the effort to expose or exploit this story, I don't think anyone can or should ignore or be ingorant of the fact what is ocurring...it is just a futile attempt for justification in something you don't want to believe. I find it hard to believe that the doubters of this sport still are grasping at anything they can... Don't believe the media, what's the player have to say... yet no player to date has offered any excuse other than 'not intentionally' or 'unknowingly' taken steroids... how convenient and how many times do we have to hear the same excuse and still accept it yet? I'm sorry.... those that want to pretend and hold out until undeniable guilt are exactly what the league and the CHEATERS themselves want... as long as they can continue to fool you .... they will... they will point their finger at your face and with a stern tone deny ever taking steroids and be offended at the mere mention that they did... but the truth is, they are lying right to your face so that they can pad their stats and be showered with accolades and praise. I'm sorry I won't buy it for one more second... go ahead and praise all the steroid boys you want too and boo and hiss me for not accepting their 'astounding' drug-induced stats...but the roid boys have done nothing to cast any doubt about their steroid use... and that includes Sosa...

Although I wish the league was as presteen (until proven otherwise) as some you hope it to be... I can not... I'm sorry....

I'm sorry... to be a 'fan' of the sport and hide behind the guise of the media is breaking the story and thus can't be trusted because the media can't be trusted...which I'm the first to admit I would adhere too...in this case is not applicable... the story has already been exposed by so many sources to merely say that I won't believe it, is really unfounded...it is merely an attempt to not want to believe it...

It has been tainted....

And I will post-script this message with this...

I do reside in the home town of Roger Maris, the only place his number is retired in his honor... I still, in my honost opinion view him as the single season homerun holder at 61....steroid free...until proven otherwise, that's how I see things.... McGwire, Sosa, Bonds... all deserve a big old asterisk... Maris donnned one for no reason and these guys all have some reason to do so...I freely admit this bias...but even in my own biased opinion, I think it has more validity than the reality today...

MLB is a farce, a charade and all those that want to buy into it.... step right up....make your points but until proven otherwise...there is no other homerun king that is substance free in my eyes and give me any evidence to prove me wrong and I'll be the right on board to join the bandwagon....

NHL - The Madness

Since the resolution of the lockout, fans of the NHL knew that a 'shakeup' was going to occur... and a 'shakeup' is what is happening! I think the new salary cap is already proving it's worth and proving the owners and Bettman to be correct in how, by having a salary cap, will make the league better as a whole. For now, every team has an opportunity to sign some really talented players.

Here's just a rundown of some the bigger deals that have occurred so far:

First, probably the blockbuster deal so far, Peter Forsberg - arguably the best player in the NHL signs a 2 year deal with the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers already released Tony Amonte and John LeClair and word is that they will be moving Jeremy Roenick. Prior to signing Forsberg the Flyers signed defensemen Darian Hatcher, Mike Rathje and Chris Therien.

The Bruins have been active signing Brain Leetch, Glen Murray, Shawn McEachern and Dave Scatchard. The Islanders traded Michael Peca to the Edmonton Oilers for Mike York and then signed Miroslav Satan as well as Alexei Zhitnik and Brent Sopel. The Oilers also traded with St. Louis, giving the Blues Eric Brewer, Doug Lynch and Jeff Woywitka for Chris Pronger.

Jarome Ignila is back the Flames and Calgary also signed Tony Amonte and Darren McCarty.

Other signings: Sergei Gonchar signed with the Penguins, Adam Foote with Columbus and Adrian Aucoin with Chicago.

Mike Modano resigned with the Dallas Stars and Markus Naslund resigned with the Vancouver Canucks...

Again, the movement of all this good talent really is shuffling up the league... it really will be exciting to see the 'new' NHL this year...

Baseball Cheaters Part II

Just hours after I post my disdain for MLB does the story begin to trickle through the media that Bud Selig and the management of MLB may have known about the positive steroid test from Palmeiro since May. If this is the case, then they knowingly let Palmeiro get to 3,000 hits...and I am guessing Palmeiro was also aware of this test result in May as well. This just further sheds light on what a sham MLB is. Not only allowing the 'juiced era' to take place, but continuing to allow the cheating to continue.

Also, the steroid that Palmeiro took was stanozolol, and can not be 'accidentally' or 'unknowingly' injested. Palmeiro has clearly lied about his steroid use and appears to continue to do so. He should be booted out of baseball right now...

Chargers On TV?

Well it looks like the cat is out of the bag and everyone wants to see some "Charger Domination". The Chargers first preseason game will be carried on most ESPN stations. It is next Thursday (8/11) at 8 EST and against Green Bay.

For the record... I couldn't give 2 shits about the preseason. I don't want to see LaDanian Tomlinson on the field. It would be nice if Gates were at least signed by that game. And it will be fun to watch some of the new guys out there. But I will gladly take a preseason lose and a healthy team rather than having the team go out there to 'prove something'.

In conclusion... Go Chargers!

Seen A Movie? Get A Refund

Because Sony Pictures used a fake critic to promote some of it's movies a court case was filed and won by moviegoers. If you seen "Vertical Limit," "A Knight's Tale," "The Animal," "Hollow Man" or "The Patriot" during their original theater runs, you can redeem your ticket stub and get your 5 bucks back.

What a fricken waste of time...or maybe I just envy those with a lot of 'free time' on their hands. And it's probably the latter...

But I'll give a little tip out there to anyone wanting to see any movie today... don't. 90% of all movies from Hollywood suck. I'll let you know when that assement changes.

Story here.

Baseball Cheaters

I will preface my remarks with just a brief history of my background in regards to baseball, specifically the Major League of Baseball. I was like any other red-blooded American boy... I loved baseball. I played baseball, I watched baseball, I had favorite teams and players, I collected and traded baseball cards...I loved baseball. Then the strike of 1994 came, the cancellation of the World Series and the resulting 'settlement' all occurred... since 1994, some 11 years now, I have not had near the passion for the MLB that I once did. The MLB is, in my opinion, a joke now. The Yankees are the World Champions...or whoever beats them - since 1995 the, only the '97 Marlin championship team is the only team that didn't beat the Yankees to win the World Series (or go on to win the World Series). Not that I hate the Yankees, I hate the structure of the league that allows a team to essentially be the best team on the field before a pitch is even thrown each season... it's almost comical to think that some of the small market teams are even in the same league as the big dollar, large market teams.

So my sourness towards the league is established... well to now to add to this sourness is the whole steroid issue. There is little doubt in my mind that many a player used steroids and for the most part, it appears as if owners, players and the league itself did nothing to prevent the widespread use of steroids....and possible in an effort to try and lure many of the fans back. And I'll admit, during McGwire and Sosa's homerun derby in 1998 it perked my interest and I, like the rest of America, began to allow baseball - to some degree - into my life. And now - and really for the past couple of years - steroids is being attached to all these players that seemed to have these outrageous statistics, totally tainting everything that was being used to lure myself and other disgruntled MLB fans of the past.

I think any and all statistics from any steroid user should at the VERY LEAST be asterisked, but I am hardcore... if I was associated at all with the game and had any say in the matter the players entire career would be stricken from the books. MLB shouldn't have this wussy 'random' steroid check right now...it should make every effort to get this sport cleaned up NOW rather than later...all players should take a drug test right now and any indication of steroids should mean a ban from the league forever.

Barry Bonds should be banished from the league forever. His records stricken from the books. In fact, in my eyes, Roger Maris is the only drug-free homerun champ that I know, so the single season homerun record to me stands at 61 and until the MLB at least tries to accommodate my feelings, I am going to go back to not caring about a league that seems to have no regard towards fairness and its fans...

Early Buzz On Merriman

Just visiting the San Diego Tribune's Charger Forum...and those that were at last night's practice, the first with their first selection, Shawne Merriman, had a lot of good things to say about the linebacker. Of course these initial reports are biased, but they are encouraging...one poster said that Merriman is as big as Steve Foley, yet faster...regardless, if Merriman can bring some sort of pass rush to this team, it will only make the Charger team more devastating...

Chargers - Merriman Agree To Terms

The Chargers signed their first pick (12th overall) of the 2005 draft, Shawne Merriman. All they need to do now is get Antonio Gates into camp and all systems are go for a year of Charger Domination.