I write this post as I sit in bed ready to pass out... and it is 9:45pm. The 19 year old me laughs at the 23 year old me and just challenged him to a power hour, on a Monday night. Of course I would never ever consume alcohol prior to the age of 21. BUT, anyway, the adult life is killing me. Between having a full-time job, taking an online class, driving 90 miles per day, and just trying to have a social life here and there, it gets hard out there for a Kevin. Oh, and trying to get a workout in occasionally? Yeah, certainly makes for an absolutely fantastic lifestyle for yours truly. And don't get me even started about bills. Anyway, I'm not complaining. I've got a job. I've got a roof over my head. I have food at every meal. And at the very least, I have a family that loves me (I think). All of this being said, I just want to say, that it really is hard transitioning into adulthood. Bought a new video game a month ago... can count on one hand how many times I have played it. Had tickets to the Michigan Football game this past weekend... made it into my seats well before the Marching Band came out. Found an extra $20 in a pants pocket... going to the gas station. Finally have free time on a weekday night... do my laundry or clean my room (although my parents will probably disagree with that... it is the thought that counts, right?) ... In college, it was a lost night if I wasn't out being social. Now, it is a lost night if I don't get 8 hours of sleep. I try to keep this blog for mostly sports writing or something a little bit more of a commentary on pop culture, but this seems like a fair post. I'm honestly having a tough time adjusting to being an "adult." I don't know how some people do it. Pat Stansik made a funny rap video about turning 24, and I really do agree with just about everything in it. I feel like I'm really getting out there on my own, but I still rely on my family for a lot. To think that my Dad was more or less on his own at my age is just absolutely terrifying. I'm sure I'd survive, but I can only imagine what my life would be like. What do you all think? Is it harder now for people from our generation to transition into adulthood? Is it our fault? Is it our parents' fault? All I know is that time management has become a necessity, a healthy diet has become a necessity, and energy drinks have become a necessity. Mmmmm... caffeine.
- Kevin
Monday, September 10, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Coming Soon...
After a major hiatus this summer (got a job... sort of kept me busy...), I will be returning this weekend with a mega-post. It was brought to my attention that I hadn't written on this thing in a while. Could use some sprucing up. But obviously, if you're dying to know what I have to say on a regular basis, feel free to check out my Twitter Feed http://www.twitter.com/kkielczewski/ ! Looking forward to getting back into this!
- Kevin
- Kevin
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
The ABC's of Sports... Round 1...
Being the obnoxious sports fan that I am, I love sports lists. This being the case, after my long "Athletes by the Number" series, I'm still a bit stuck on this "lists" thing (you'd swear I write for Grantland or something). I decided that I would try going A-Z in my sports world. Here we go...
A - Ann Arbor: Home to me for 23 years and the University of Michigan for 175 years.
B - Brandon Inge: Has played for my favorite baseball team since 2001. He has caught, played third, and now is at second. Oh, and by the way, he's my Tiger.
C - College Football: I have lived for this sport throughout my life. Growing up down the street from Michigan Stadium will do that to you.
D - Detroit: Where my favorite professional sports teams play (or at least say they're from). From the Joe to CoPa, The D is where it's at.
E - East Lansing: Where Sparty is. Enough said.
F - ****: All I could say after this game...
G - Goalie Fight: Vernon vs Roy and Osgood vs Roy are forever engrained in my blood crazed hockey fanatic portion of my brain.
H - Hockeytown: Another name for The D. The Wings have won 4 Stanley Cups while I've been alive. Not bad eh?
I - Ice Cream Baseball Helmets: Raise your hand if you ever got one...
J - The Joe: Where the Red Wings play. Joe Louis Arena is certainly an older hockey venue. But, there is certainly a feeling of nostalgia when you walk up those stairs.
K - Vladimir Konstantinov: A great defenseman on the 96-97 Detroit Red Wings, the enforcer was in a car accident and became a rallying point for the next season's Stanley Cup winning team.
L - Lloyd Carr: Coach of the Michigan Football team from 1995 - 2007, Lloyd left some pretty big shoes to fill for Rich Rodriguez, who couldn't exactly fill them.
M - Block "M": An obvious symbol of the University of Michigan, Dave Brandon has pushed it even greater since taking over the Athletic Department. The Block M is as synonymous with the University as is the term "Wolverines."
N - Night Games: How cool was it Under the Lights last year?
O - Chris Osgood: Minded the net for the Detroit Red Wings for a large portion of my sports watching career. Many chants of "Ozzie! Ozzie! Ozzie! Ozzie!" were heard at The Joe.
P - Pioneer High School: Not only is it a high school with a ton of cool alumni from hockey player Jack Johnson, to Olympic swimmer Kara Lynn Joyce. From Iggy Pop to Bob Seger. And of course me! But it also is kitty-corner to a college football mecca and serves as parking and tailgating for many a fan.
Q - Quinnipiac: I don't really have anything for Q. Mike Silverman went there... hosted a sports radio show. I was on it once. Next...
R - Rose Bowl: The Grand Daddy of them All... Michigan hasn't been in it in a while. It has still produced some absolutely phenomenal games. As America's attention is drawn to Pasadena on New Year's Day (or close to), we all recover from staying up late (or that whole hangover thing) and watch some football.
S - Sugar Bowl: One of the BCS Bowls. Michigan won it this year. It was awesome. Brunette girls...
T - The Tigers: I have been a fan since birth. I have a game ball from 1989 signed by the team. Meeting Sparky Anderson was one of my favorite moments in life. I love going to games. I love watching games. Although I love it when they're good, I don't really care. I support them 100%.
U - Ugueth Urbina: If you don't know this former baseball player's story, I suggest reading it.
V - The Victors: Enjoy...
W - Wolverines: What the University of Michigan athletic teams call themselves. I think it is worth saying that I think that they should use it more frequently and predominantly as opposed to the Block M.
X - X-Games: One of the few times a year that I'm not watching ESPN. Absolutely 0 interest from this guy.
Y - Steve Yzerman: The Captain. Enough said.
Z - Zebras: They're just the worst. Unless they are Ed Hochuli.
Well, I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did. Feel free to tell me what you think. I love comments, both positive and negative. The game plan is to have a real writing piece here in the near future. We'll see how that goes. Until then, just remember...
"You miss 100 % of the shots you don't take."
- Wayne Gretzky
A - Ann Arbor: Home to me for 23 years and the University of Michigan for 175 years.
B - Brandon Inge: Has played for my favorite baseball team since 2001. He has caught, played third, and now is at second. Oh, and by the way, he's my Tiger.
C - College Football: I have lived for this sport throughout my life. Growing up down the street from Michigan Stadium will do that to you.
D - Detroit: Where my favorite professional sports teams play (or at least say they're from). From the Joe to CoPa, The D is where it's at.
E - East Lansing: Where Sparty is. Enough said.
F - ****: All I could say after this game...
G - Goalie Fight: Vernon vs Roy and Osgood vs Roy are forever engrained in my blood crazed hockey fanatic portion of my brain.
H - Hockeytown: Another name for The D. The Wings have won 4 Stanley Cups while I've been alive. Not bad eh?
I - Ice Cream Baseball Helmets: Raise your hand if you ever got one...
J - The Joe: Where the Red Wings play. Joe Louis Arena is certainly an older hockey venue. But, there is certainly a feeling of nostalgia when you walk up those stairs.
K - Vladimir Konstantinov: A great defenseman on the 96-97 Detroit Red Wings, the enforcer was in a car accident and became a rallying point for the next season's Stanley Cup winning team.
L - Lloyd Carr: Coach of the Michigan Football team from 1995 - 2007, Lloyd left some pretty big shoes to fill for Rich Rodriguez, who couldn't exactly fill them.
M - Block "M": An obvious symbol of the University of Michigan, Dave Brandon has pushed it even greater since taking over the Athletic Department. The Block M is as synonymous with the University as is the term "Wolverines."
N - Night Games: How cool was it Under the Lights last year?
O - Chris Osgood: Minded the net for the Detroit Red Wings for a large portion of my sports watching career. Many chants of "Ozzie! Ozzie! Ozzie! Ozzie!" were heard at The Joe.
P - Pioneer High School: Not only is it a high school with a ton of cool alumni from hockey player Jack Johnson, to Olympic swimmer Kara Lynn Joyce. From Iggy Pop to Bob Seger. And of course me! But it also is kitty-corner to a college football mecca and serves as parking and tailgating for many a fan.
Q - Quinnipiac: I don't really have anything for Q. Mike Silverman went there... hosted a sports radio show. I was on it once. Next...
R - Rose Bowl: The Grand Daddy of them All... Michigan hasn't been in it in a while. It has still produced some absolutely phenomenal games. As America's attention is drawn to Pasadena on New Year's Day (or close to), we all recover from staying up late (or that whole hangover thing) and watch some football.
S - Sugar Bowl: One of the BCS Bowls. Michigan won it this year. It was awesome. Brunette girls...
T - The Tigers: I have been a fan since birth. I have a game ball from 1989 signed by the team. Meeting Sparky Anderson was one of my favorite moments in life. I love going to games. I love watching games. Although I love it when they're good, I don't really care. I support them 100%.
U - Ugueth Urbina: If you don't know this former baseball player's story, I suggest reading it.
V - The Victors: Enjoy...
W - Wolverines: What the University of Michigan athletic teams call themselves. I think it is worth saying that I think that they should use it more frequently and predominantly as opposed to the Block M.
X - X-Games: One of the few times a year that I'm not watching ESPN. Absolutely 0 interest from this guy.
Y - Steve Yzerman: The Captain. Enough said.
Z - Zebras: They're just the worst. Unless they are Ed Hochuli.
Well, I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did. Feel free to tell me what you think. I love comments, both positive and negative. The game plan is to have a real writing piece here in the near future. We'll see how that goes. Until then, just remember...
"You miss 100 % of the shots you don't take."
- Wayne Gretzky
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 90 - 99
This is my FINAL installment of "Athletes by the Number". I am excited to be done and start writing other stuff. I know I could have been writing other stuff the entire time... but... I just wanted to finish. Anywho... 90 - 99!
90 - Mike Modano: During his brief stint with the Red Wings, the Michigan native wore number 90. He wore the number 9 for his entire career with the North Stars/Stars organization. But, becasue Mr. Hockey's number is retired in Detroit, Modano added a 0 to the 9 and got 90. An honorable mention goes to Ndamukong Suh. If it wasn't for Mike Modano's star power, I probably would have said him.
91 - Sergei Federov: Much like Steve Yzerman, Cecil Fielder, Barry Sanders, Grant Hill, and Bobby Higginson, Federov was one of the sports-favorites of young Metro-Detroit fans in the 1990s. Many a young Red Wings fans had his poster in their room or dreamed of flying up and down the ice like Federov. On top of dating Anna Kournikova for a while, another fun fact about Federove is that he got out of the USSR by coming over to the United States to represent the USSR in the Goodwill Games and then never returned.
92 - Reggie White: "The Minister of Defense" was posthumously enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers (and the Carolina Panthers for one year). It has been said by many that he was the first "big-name" pro football free agent. He was in 13 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1986 - 1998 and had 198 career NFL sacks.
93 - Johan Franzen: The Mule. He has become a clear leader of the Wings. Franzen's red beard and grind it out mentality has helped him become a fan-favorite.
94 - Pat Massey: Played football at Michigan. His younger brother Mike played football at Michigan. He is honestly the only guy I can think of who wore 94. If I had some fun fact about him I would. But I don't. He was on the New York Giants roster in 2006 but never played.
95 - Richard Dent: Dent spent the majority of his career with the Chicago Bears. He also played for the 49ers, Colts, and Eagles. His claim-to-fame is that he was an 8th round draft pick who ended up being one of the greatest players at his position (d-end). He played in four Pro Bowls and was the MVP of Super Bowl XX.
96 - Tomas Holmstrom: Probably the greatest goalie-screener to ever play hockey, Homer has won four Stanley Cups with the Red Wings and will certainly go down as one of the greats.
97 - Jeremy Roenick: You either love him or you hate him. Those who had him on their team loved him. If he wasn't on your team, you hated him. Roenick played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. Roenick was the third American hockey player to score 500 goals. He retired in 2009 with 513 goals.
98 - Tony Siragusa: I'm going with him because I can. I guess he was good. I just think he's hilarious.
99 - Wayne Gretzky: Um... duh...
Well that is it folks. It is done. I did it. 0-99. All numbers have been covered. It was brutal, but it is done. Thanks for checking it out and I'll get back to some normal writing soon here. There is a lot to cover. I didn't talk about March Madness. I haven't talked about baseball being back. There is a certain baseball team doing pretty well. Anywho, I'll be back soon. Peace!
90 - Mike Modano: During his brief stint with the Red Wings, the Michigan native wore number 90. He wore the number 9 for his entire career with the North Stars/Stars organization. But, becasue Mr. Hockey's number is retired in Detroit, Modano added a 0 to the 9 and got 90. An honorable mention goes to Ndamukong Suh. If it wasn't for Mike Modano's star power, I probably would have said him.
91 - Sergei Federov: Much like Steve Yzerman, Cecil Fielder, Barry Sanders, Grant Hill, and Bobby Higginson, Federov was one of the sports-favorites of young Metro-Detroit fans in the 1990s. Many a young Red Wings fans had his poster in their room or dreamed of flying up and down the ice like Federov. On top of dating Anna Kournikova for a while, another fun fact about Federove is that he got out of the USSR by coming over to the United States to represent the USSR in the Goodwill Games and then never returned.
92 - Reggie White: "The Minister of Defense" was posthumously enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers (and the Carolina Panthers for one year). It has been said by many that he was the first "big-name" pro football free agent. He was in 13 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1986 - 1998 and had 198 career NFL sacks.
93 - Johan Franzen: The Mule. He has become a clear leader of the Wings. Franzen's red beard and grind it out mentality has helped him become a fan-favorite.
94 - Pat Massey: Played football at Michigan. His younger brother Mike played football at Michigan. He is honestly the only guy I can think of who wore 94. If I had some fun fact about him I would. But I don't. He was on the New York Giants roster in 2006 but never played.
95 - Richard Dent: Dent spent the majority of his career with the Chicago Bears. He also played for the 49ers, Colts, and Eagles. His claim-to-fame is that he was an 8th round draft pick who ended up being one of the greatest players at his position (d-end). He played in four Pro Bowls and was the MVP of Super Bowl XX.
96 - Tomas Holmstrom: Probably the greatest goalie-screener to ever play hockey, Homer has won four Stanley Cups with the Red Wings and will certainly go down as one of the greats.
97 - Jeremy Roenick: You either love him or you hate him. Those who had him on their team loved him. If he wasn't on your team, you hated him. Roenick played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. Roenick was the third American hockey player to score 500 goals. He retired in 2009 with 513 goals.
98 - Tony Siragusa: I'm going with him because I can. I guess he was good. I just think he's hilarious.
99 - Wayne Gretzky: Um... duh...
Well that is it folks. It is done. I did it. 0-99. All numbers have been covered. It was brutal, but it is done. Thanks for checking it out and I'll get back to some normal writing soon here. There is a lot to cover. I didn't talk about March Madness. I haven't talked about baseball being back. There is a certain baseball team doing pretty well. Anywho, I'll be back soon. Peace!
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 80 - 89
Well, it has been over three weeks since I last posted. I suppose I can finally try and finish this darn thing...
80 - Cris Carter: One of the greatest wide receivers ever, the former Buckeye (vom) caught touchdown after touchdown after touchdown for the Minnesota Vikings from 1990 - 2001. He began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles and finished with the Miami Dolphins.
81 - Tim Brown: Another of the great wide receivers. Brown spent the majority of his career playing for the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders. He defined the black and silver throughout the 90s.
82 - Ozzie Newsome: Played tight end for the Cleveland Browns from 1978 - 1990. He was Pro Football Hall Inductee in 1999. He had 47 TD's over his career. Not too bad for a tight end who played in Cleveland.
83 - Andre Reed: I'm just on a roll with these receivers. Jim Kelly's main go-to receiver played in four Super Bowls and is only beat by Jerry Rice for most receptions in the Super Bowl. Reed set nine school records while playing for Kutztown University.
84 - Randy Moss: This video sums it al up. Honorable mentions go out to Chris Webber and his cup of coffee with the Pistons and Herman Moore.
85 - Marcus Knight: Played football at Michigan. I was a big fan. I really don't have much to say about him.
86 - Hines Ward: Recently retired, Ward was Pittsburgh for fourteen years. He was drafted in the third round out of Georgia and helped lead the Steelers to two Super Bowl Championships. Honorable mention goes out to Tai Streets.
87 - Johnnie Morton: A football player turned MMA fighter, Morton was drafted by the Lions out of USC and played well. Certainly was not a big name, but for a kid growing up in Southeast Michigan, he, along with Herman Moore, tore up the Silverdome.
88 - Eric Lindros: Taking a break from the football theme, Lindros was a member of the "Legion of Doom" for the Philadelphia Flyers. While certainly a goal scorer, Lindros played hard-nosed hockey. Unfortunately, his style of play also lead to multiple concussions, which also lead to the thend of his playing time.
89 - Alexander Mogilny: Mogilny scored 76 goals in the 1992-1993 season and was the original "Alexander the Great". During the 1988 Olympics, he played on a line with Sergei Federov and Pavel Bure. Some called it the most productive line ever.
Until next time... when I FINALLY FINISH THIS PROJECT OF MINE...
80 - Cris Carter: One of the greatest wide receivers ever, the former Buckeye (vom) caught touchdown after touchdown after touchdown for the Minnesota Vikings from 1990 - 2001. He began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles and finished with the Miami Dolphins.
81 - Tim Brown: Another of the great wide receivers. Brown spent the majority of his career playing for the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders. He defined the black and silver throughout the 90s.
82 - Ozzie Newsome: Played tight end for the Cleveland Browns from 1978 - 1990. He was Pro Football Hall Inductee in 1999. He had 47 TD's over his career. Not too bad for a tight end who played in Cleveland.
83 - Andre Reed: I'm just on a roll with these receivers. Jim Kelly's main go-to receiver played in four Super Bowls and is only beat by Jerry Rice for most receptions in the Super Bowl. Reed set nine school records while playing for Kutztown University.
84 - Randy Moss: This video sums it al up. Honorable mentions go out to Chris Webber and his cup of coffee with the Pistons and Herman Moore.
85 - Marcus Knight: Played football at Michigan. I was a big fan. I really don't have much to say about him.
86 - Hines Ward: Recently retired, Ward was Pittsburgh for fourteen years. He was drafted in the third round out of Georgia and helped lead the Steelers to two Super Bowl Championships. Honorable mention goes out to Tai Streets.
87 - Johnnie Morton: A football player turned MMA fighter, Morton was drafted by the Lions out of USC and played well. Certainly was not a big name, but for a kid growing up in Southeast Michigan, he, along with Herman Moore, tore up the Silverdome.
88 - Eric Lindros: Taking a break from the football theme, Lindros was a member of the "Legion of Doom" for the Philadelphia Flyers. While certainly a goal scorer, Lindros played hard-nosed hockey. Unfortunately, his style of play also lead to multiple concussions, which also lead to the thend of his playing time.
89 - Alexander Mogilny: Mogilny scored 76 goals in the 1992-1993 season and was the original "Alexander the Great". During the 1988 Olympics, he played on a line with Sergei Federov and Pavel Bure. Some called it the most productive line ever.
Until next time... when I FINALLY FINISH THIS PROJECT OF MINE...
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 70 - 79
Only three more posts to go... so close, yet so far... here we go...
70 - Rayfield Wright: Wore 70 for the Dallas Cowboys. Played mostly at offensive tackel. Is in the Hall of Fame. Sounds good enough for me. (I will admit, I had to look up this one... Struggled to come up with a 70.)
71 - Evgeni Malkin: A bit of a shadow behind Sidney Crosby in Pittsburgh, Malkin is the Jagr in Pittsburgh's current tag-team. He assisted in leading the Penguins to the 2009 Stanley Cup.
72 - Dan Dierdorf: A "Michigan Man", Dierdorf starred for the Miami Dolphins and St. Louis Cardinals. He is an NFL Hall of Famer. He even spent some time in the booth of Monday Night Football. I'd give it to him.
73 - Dennis Rodman: I know Rodman wore a bunch of numbers throughout his career, but a buddy of mine had his 7-3 Lakers jersey, and I certainly remember that one.
74 - Bruce Matthews: Recent NFL Hall of Famer. Played over three different decades for the Oiler/Titans Franchise and now coaching with them. Respect...
75 - Howie Long: A Raider among Raiders. Long, a Hall of Fame defensive end, now assists in hosting the Fox Sunday NFL Pre-Game show. Oh, and his son is pretty good too... Honorable mentions to David Baas while at Michigan and "Mean" Joe Green.
76 - Steve Hutchinson: An All-Pro offensive lineman and a "Michigan Man" as well, Hutchinson has played outstandingly well for both the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings, paving the way for running backs Shaun Alexander and Adrian Peterson. An honorable mention goes to his former teammate and longtime Detroit Lion Jeff Backus.
77 - Jon Jansen: Jansen was a force while at Michigan. He was a captain of the 1998 National Championship squad. He was a big man with a bigger heart. I had the chance to meet him when I was younger and he was nothing but kind. I have nothing but respect for the man. Extremely honorable mentions go out to another 77 from Michigan, 2008 NFL Draft 1st Pick Jake Long, and NHL great Ray Bourque.
78 - Bruce Smith: One of the few former Buffalo Bills that I can actually remember.
79 - Alexei Yashin: Much like a few of my previous choices, Yashin's connection to 79 has a lot to do with my previous play of EA Sports' NHL series. Although I would also say he is one of the greatest to ever wear the number. Mainly because so few have worn it.
2 MORE POSTS TO GO! Oh! Em! Gee! See you soon!
70 - Rayfield Wright: Wore 70 for the Dallas Cowboys. Played mostly at offensive tackel. Is in the Hall of Fame. Sounds good enough for me. (I will admit, I had to look up this one... Struggled to come up with a 70.)
71 - Evgeni Malkin: A bit of a shadow behind Sidney Crosby in Pittsburgh, Malkin is the Jagr in Pittsburgh's current tag-team. He assisted in leading the Penguins to the 2009 Stanley Cup.
72 - Dan Dierdorf: A "Michigan Man", Dierdorf starred for the Miami Dolphins and St. Louis Cardinals. He is an NFL Hall of Famer. He even spent some time in the booth of Monday Night Football. I'd give it to him.
73 - Dennis Rodman: I know Rodman wore a bunch of numbers throughout his career, but a buddy of mine had his 7-3 Lakers jersey, and I certainly remember that one.
74 - Bruce Matthews: Recent NFL Hall of Famer. Played over three different decades for the Oiler/Titans Franchise and now coaching with them. Respect...
75 - Howie Long: A Raider among Raiders. Long, a Hall of Fame defensive end, now assists in hosting the Fox Sunday NFL Pre-Game show. Oh, and his son is pretty good too... Honorable mentions to David Baas while at Michigan and "Mean" Joe Green.
76 - Steve Hutchinson: An All-Pro offensive lineman and a "Michigan Man" as well, Hutchinson has played outstandingly well for both the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings, paving the way for running backs Shaun Alexander and Adrian Peterson. An honorable mention goes to his former teammate and longtime Detroit Lion Jeff Backus.
77 - Jon Jansen: Jansen was a force while at Michigan. He was a captain of the 1998 National Championship squad. He was a big man with a bigger heart. I had the chance to meet him when I was younger and he was nothing but kind. I have nothing but respect for the man. Extremely honorable mentions go out to another 77 from Michigan, 2008 NFL Draft 1st Pick Jake Long, and NHL great Ray Bourque.
78 - Bruce Smith: One of the few former Buffalo Bills that I can actually remember.
79 - Alexei Yashin: Much like a few of my previous choices, Yashin's connection to 79 has a lot to do with my previous play of EA Sports' NHL series. Although I would also say he is one of the greatest to ever wear the number. Mainly because so few have worn it.
2 MORE POSTS TO GO! Oh! Em! Gee! See you soon!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 60 - 69
Well, I figure I need to finish this list, don't I? That being the case, here's 60 - 69...
60 - Otto Graham: The man... the myth... the legend... and one of the few Cleveland Brown "greats."
61 - Rick Nash: He hasn't won a Stanley Cup yet, but man, he is one heck of a player. It is unfortunate that he has had to watch his career go down the pooper in Columbus.
62 - Joba Chamberlain: Pretty good pitcher with the Yankees. To be honest, I can't really think of any other players that have worn 62. I'm sure there are others... but... what can I do?
63 - Gene Upshaw: I would certainly put him under the list as "one of the greats" for the Raiders. He may not have played while I was alive, but I watch enough NFL Films to know.
64 - Randall McDaniel: Only reason I really remember him as 64 would be one of my first football cards. Other than that, let's be honest... unless you are a diehard Vikings fan, you wouldn't remember him...
65 - Phil Hughes: Again, much like the Joba Chamberlain situation, I just can't particularly think of any other 65's. I suppose these two Yankees come to mind mostly because of them being... well... Yankees.
66 - Mario Lemieux: Arguably the third greatest hockey player ever? Super Mario will always define Pittsburgh hockey. I don't care how good Sidney Crosby is, Mario Lemieux was, is, and forever will be Penguins Hockey.
67 - Michael Frolik: Can't think of too many other's wearing the 67. But, from playing EA Sports' wonderful "NHL" series, I do know of Michael Frolik.
68 - Jaromir Jagr: He was the jelly to Mario Lemieux's peanut butter in making the Pittsburgh Penguins into the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions that they were. Although he has been around the league a bit at this point, he will forever be a Pittsburgh Penguin to me. An honorable mention goes out to Michigan's own Mike Martin. Even through the rough "Rich Rod" years, Mike played as tough as he could.
69 - Mark Schlereth: Although he is loved by many in Denver, the former NFL lineman and now ESPN NFL analyst has become a bit of a Detroit sports figure with his son pitching for the Tigers. I'll never forget watching him stand up and sing "The Victors" when his son was pitching for the Arizona Wildcats against Michigan. It would be easy to say that he got a bit caught up in the moment.
I will do my best to be a bit more current with these posts... I certainly want to finish this soon. Hey, if you're lucky, maybe I'll even do another one before the end of the day...
60 - Otto Graham: The man... the myth... the legend... and one of the few Cleveland Brown "greats."
61 - Rick Nash: He hasn't won a Stanley Cup yet, but man, he is one heck of a player. It is unfortunate that he has had to watch his career go down the pooper in Columbus.
62 - Joba Chamberlain: Pretty good pitcher with the Yankees. To be honest, I can't really think of any other players that have worn 62. I'm sure there are others... but... what can I do?
63 - Gene Upshaw: I would certainly put him under the list as "one of the greats" for the Raiders. He may not have played while I was alive, but I watch enough NFL Films to know.
64 - Randall McDaniel: Only reason I really remember him as 64 would be one of my first football cards. Other than that, let's be honest... unless you are a diehard Vikings fan, you wouldn't remember him...
65 - Phil Hughes: Again, much like the Joba Chamberlain situation, I just can't particularly think of any other 65's. I suppose these two Yankees come to mind mostly because of them being... well... Yankees.
66 - Mario Lemieux: Arguably the third greatest hockey player ever? Super Mario will always define Pittsburgh hockey. I don't care how good Sidney Crosby is, Mario Lemieux was, is, and forever will be Penguins Hockey.
67 - Michael Frolik: Can't think of too many other's wearing the 67. But, from playing EA Sports' wonderful "NHL" series, I do know of Michael Frolik.
68 - Jaromir Jagr: He was the jelly to Mario Lemieux's peanut butter in making the Pittsburgh Penguins into the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions that they were. Although he has been around the league a bit at this point, he will forever be a Pittsburgh Penguin to me. An honorable mention goes out to Michigan's own Mike Martin. Even through the rough "Rich Rod" years, Mike played as tough as he could.
69 - Mark Schlereth: Although he is loved by many in Denver, the former NFL lineman and now ESPN NFL analyst has become a bit of a Detroit sports figure with his son pitching for the Tigers. I'll never forget watching him stand up and sing "The Victors" when his son was pitching for the Arizona Wildcats against Michigan. It would be easy to say that he got a bit caught up in the moment.
I will do my best to be a bit more current with these posts... I certainly want to finish this soon. Hey, if you're lucky, maybe I'll even do another one before the end of the day...
Monday, March 5, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 50 - 59
I took a bit of a break, but now I'm back. Time to attack the numbers 50 - 59...
50 - David Robinson: "The Admiral" came out of the Naval Academy and brought the San Antonio Spurs back to being a relevant NBA team (although Tim Duncan helped a bit).
51 - Dick Butkus: While not the GREATEST name for a hard tackling linebacker in the NFL, he helped define the position for future players.
52 - Ray Lewis: He may have been a criminal... but the man plays some damn good football.
53 - Don Drysdale: Sure... he was a bit before my time. A lot bit. But Drysdale is clearly the best to ever wear the number.
54 - Brian Urlacher: Urlacher, as much as it kills me as a fan of another NFC North squad, has been an absolute force in the league for over a decade.
55 - Dikembe Mutombo: Finger-waving and all, Mutombo was the defensive specialist everyone was afraid of. Domination at it's finest. Honorable mentions go out to Orel Hershiser, Junior Seau, and Dhani Jones.
56 - Lamarr Woodley: Just remember kids... Guns don't kill people. Lamarr Woodley kills people.
57 - Johan Santana: When not riddled by injuries, Santana is a premier pitcher in the Big League.
58 - Jack Lambert: While his teeth scared me as a child, his old highlight reels impressed me as an adult.
59 - Todd Jones: While scaring the hell out of me as a closer, Jones set many a record for the Tigers. I give credit when credit as do. He was one heck of a closer.
That is it for 50 - 59... next comes 60 - 69... soon and very soon.
50 - David Robinson: "The Admiral" came out of the Naval Academy and brought the San Antonio Spurs back to being a relevant NBA team (although Tim Duncan helped a bit).
51 - Dick Butkus: While not the GREATEST name for a hard tackling linebacker in the NFL, he helped define the position for future players.
52 - Ray Lewis: He may have been a criminal... but the man plays some damn good football.
53 - Don Drysdale: Sure... he was a bit before my time. A lot bit. But Drysdale is clearly the best to ever wear the number.
54 - Brian Urlacher: Urlacher, as much as it kills me as a fan of another NFC North squad, has been an absolute force in the league for over a decade.
55 - Dikembe Mutombo: Finger-waving and all, Mutombo was the defensive specialist everyone was afraid of. Domination at it's finest. Honorable mentions go out to Orel Hershiser, Junior Seau, and Dhani Jones.
56 - Lamarr Woodley: Just remember kids... Guns don't kill people. Lamarr Woodley kills people.
57 - Johan Santana: When not riddled by injuries, Santana is a premier pitcher in the Big League.
58 - Jack Lambert: While his teeth scared me as a child, his old highlight reels impressed me as an adult.
59 - Todd Jones: While scaring the hell out of me as a closer, Jones set many a record for the Tigers. I give credit when credit as do. He was one heck of a closer.
That is it for 50 - 59... next comes 60 - 69... soon and very soon.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 40 - 49
And now comes the post that so many people were waiting to see... the 40s...
40 - Henrik Zetterberg: Like many of my numbers, a Detroit Red Wing comes in with the 4-0. Hank has become a true leader on the Red Wings team and game-in and game-out he plays his heart out for the City of Detroit. While an absolute goofball (that is his wedding picture), he would be my best guess to wear the captain's patch once Lidstrom retires. Honorable mentions go to Gale Sayers and Pat Tillman.
41 - Dirk Nowitzki: Dirk has been a star in the NBA for years now. But, last summer, he officially flourished and lead his team to an NBA Championship. He is 41. Heck, his Twitter handle is @swish41 .
42 - Jerry Stackhouse: This will be a highly debated one. Forty-two is a bit of an honored number in my household. I wore it in basketball. My brothers have worn it. We are big fans of the 4-2. And, for me, it goes back to Stackhouse. I chose to wear 42 because of Stack and that is who I think of. Honorable mentions go out to Jackie Robinson, Mariano Rivera (who has an absolutely phenomenal entrance song), Michael Kielczewski, and now Aaron Schoenfeldt.
43 - Richard Petty: While this may bring up the whole debate of whether or not car racing is a "sport" or if a driver is an "athlete", but "The King" is who I think of when I think of 43. Petty made NASCAR what it is today. An honorable mention goes out to Darren Helm.
44 - Todd Bertuzzi: While the man probably isn't the NICEST guy out there, he is a a great athlete and is certainly the first one I think of in regards to 44. Honorable mentions go out to Hank Aaron, George "The Iceman" Gervin, and Jerry West.
45 - Michael Jordan's Comeback: This may not be an exactly normal one. But, when people talk about "wearing the 4-5", they reference Jordan's Comeback. The Bulls had retired 23 for Jordan, and so when he came out of retirement, he had to wear 45 until they took his number down from the rafters. An honorable mention goes out to Rudy Tomjanovich.
46 - Andy Pettite: Heck of a pitcher while with the Yankees. He dominated the AL East year after year. Lost of bit of his lore after it was revealed he had used steroids.
47 - Tom Glavine: Heck of a pitcher while with the Braves. He dominated the NL East year after year. Lost a bit of his lore after joining the Mets. (Some absolute quality information given for both Glavine and Pettite no?)
48 - Torii Hunter: Hunter played lights out defense while manning center field for the Minnesota Twins. He has still played quite well for the Angels, but he truly had his all-star years in Minneapolis.
49 - Ron Guidry: Four-time all star, two time World Series Champion, 1978 AL Cy Young Winner, and number retired by the Yankees... I'd say he best represents 49.
And that concludes 40-49... and... oh my... WE'VE REACHED THE HALF WAY POINT!
40 - Henrik Zetterberg: Like many of my numbers, a Detroit Red Wing comes in with the 4-0. Hank has become a true leader on the Red Wings team and game-in and game-out he plays his heart out for the City of Detroit. While an absolute goofball (that is his wedding picture), he would be my best guess to wear the captain's patch once Lidstrom retires. Honorable mentions go to Gale Sayers and Pat Tillman.
41 - Dirk Nowitzki: Dirk has been a star in the NBA for years now. But, last summer, he officially flourished and lead his team to an NBA Championship. He is 41. Heck, his Twitter handle is @swish41 .
42 - Jerry Stackhouse: This will be a highly debated one. Forty-two is a bit of an honored number in my household. I wore it in basketball. My brothers have worn it. We are big fans of the 4-2. And, for me, it goes back to Stackhouse. I chose to wear 42 because of Stack and that is who I think of. Honorable mentions go out to Jackie Robinson, Mariano Rivera (who has an absolutely phenomenal entrance song), Michael Kielczewski, and now Aaron Schoenfeldt.
43 - Richard Petty: While this may bring up the whole debate of whether or not car racing is a "sport" or if a driver is an "athlete", but "The King" is who I think of when I think of 43. Petty made NASCAR what it is today. An honorable mention goes out to Darren Helm.
44 - Todd Bertuzzi: While the man probably isn't the NICEST guy out there, he is a a great athlete and is certainly the first one I think of in regards to 44. Honorable mentions go out to Hank Aaron, George "The Iceman" Gervin, and Jerry West.
45 - Michael Jordan's Comeback: This may not be an exactly normal one. But, when people talk about "wearing the 4-5", they reference Jordan's Comeback. The Bulls had retired 23 for Jordan, and so when he came out of retirement, he had to wear 45 until they took his number down from the rafters. An honorable mention goes out to Rudy Tomjanovich.
46 - Andy Pettite: Heck of a pitcher while with the Yankees. He dominated the AL East year after year. Lost of bit of his lore after it was revealed he had used steroids.
47 - Tom Glavine: Heck of a pitcher while with the Braves. He dominated the NL East year after year. Lost a bit of his lore after joining the Mets. (Some absolute quality information given for both Glavine and Pettite no?)
48 - Torii Hunter: Hunter played lights out defense while manning center field for the Minnesota Twins. He has still played quite well for the Angels, but he truly had his all-star years in Minneapolis.
49 - Ron Guidry: Four-time all star, two time World Series Champion, 1978 AL Cy Young Winner, and number retired by the Yankees... I'd say he best represents 49.
And that concludes 40-49... and... oh my... WE'VE REACHED THE HALF WAY POINT!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 30-39
As we hit the fourth installment of this wonderful list, I just wanted to remind everyone that this is the list of people I think of when I think of the number... and I do plan on doing a G.O.A.T. List for 00-99... and it will be awesome...
Moving on...
30 - Chris Osgood: A major contributor to the Detroit Red Wings for over ten years, he backed up Mike Vernon for the '97 Stanley Cup, won the '98 Stanley Cup, and split time with Dominik Hasek during the Stanley Cup Season of 2007-2008. Terrell Davis is an honorable mention.
31 - Grant Fuhr: Hall of Fame Goalie. Defined goaltending for almost 20 years. Wayne Gretzky has time in and time out said that Fuhr is the best goaltender he ever played with.
32 - Jim Brown: Considered to be one of the greatest athletes ever produced by the United States, Jim Brown set rushing record after rushing record with the Cleveland Browns. Brown retired after only his eighth season so that he could pursue his acting career. Honorable mentions go out to Richard Hamilton, Anthony Thomas, and most importantly, Magic Johnson.
33 - Kris Draper: While Draper is certainly a bit of a regional choice, he was a staple of the Detroit Red Wings for over 15 years. He was a member of all four Stanley Cup Championships that I was alive for. He defined 33 to me. Honorable mentions would include Patrick Roy, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar.
34 - Walter Payton: Sweetness. He carried the Chicago Bears to Super Bowl XX and was one of the G.O.A.T. I feel like I keeping saying that. But, when it is that obvious, I suppose it is what it is.
35 - Justin Verlander: The man has turned into a rock star. He even has his own cereal. If he leads the Tigers to a World Series along with the help of Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder this season, he will be considered to be one of the G.O.A.T. Honorable mentions go out to Jimmy Howard and Frank Thomas.
36 - Rasheed Wallace: This has a lot to do with the whole "being a Detroit sports fan thing" but Rasheed made the Pistons into not just a great team, but a championship team.
37 - Shaun Alexander: To be completely honest, I just can't really think of anyone else who wore the 3-7. Perhaps Olaf Kolzig?
38 - Curt Schilling: The 2004 ALCS. Game 6. The bloody sock. Enough Said.
39 - Dominik Hasek: "The Dominator" stood on his head over and over again protecting the pipes for the Blackhawks, Sabres, and Red Wings. A picture of him jumping up and down after winning the gold medal in the 1998 Winter Olympics still sits in my mind as one of the great Olympic Moments... strangely...
Ready... set... discuss...
Moving on...
30 - Chris Osgood: A major contributor to the Detroit Red Wings for over ten years, he backed up Mike Vernon for the '97 Stanley Cup, won the '98 Stanley Cup, and split time with Dominik Hasek during the Stanley Cup Season of 2007-2008. Terrell Davis is an honorable mention.
31 - Grant Fuhr: Hall of Fame Goalie. Defined goaltending for almost 20 years. Wayne Gretzky has time in and time out said that Fuhr is the best goaltender he ever played with.
32 - Jim Brown: Considered to be one of the greatest athletes ever produced by the United States, Jim Brown set rushing record after rushing record with the Cleveland Browns. Brown retired after only his eighth season so that he could pursue his acting career. Honorable mentions go out to Richard Hamilton, Anthony Thomas, and most importantly, Magic Johnson.
33 - Kris Draper: While Draper is certainly a bit of a regional choice, he was a staple of the Detroit Red Wings for over 15 years. He was a member of all four Stanley Cup Championships that I was alive for. He defined 33 to me. Honorable mentions would include Patrick Roy, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar.
34 - Walter Payton: Sweetness. He carried the Chicago Bears to Super Bowl XX and was one of the G.O.A.T. I feel like I keeping saying that. But, when it is that obvious, I suppose it is what it is.
35 - Justin Verlander: The man has turned into a rock star. He even has his own cereal. If he leads the Tigers to a World Series along with the help of Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder this season, he will be considered to be one of the G.O.A.T. Honorable mentions go out to Jimmy Howard and Frank Thomas.
36 - Rasheed Wallace: This has a lot to do with the whole "being a Detroit sports fan thing" but Rasheed made the Pistons into not just a great team, but a championship team.
37 - Shaun Alexander: To be completely honest, I just can't really think of anyone else who wore the 3-7. Perhaps Olaf Kolzig?
38 - Curt Schilling: The 2004 ALCS. Game 6. The bloody sock. Enough Said.
39 - Dominik Hasek: "The Dominator" stood on his head over and over again protecting the pipes for the Blackhawks, Sabres, and Red Wings. A picture of him jumping up and down after winning the gold medal in the 1998 Winter Olympics still sits in my mind as one of the great Olympic Moments... strangely...
Ready... set... discuss...
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 20-29
Next installmentt in 3...2...1...
20 - Barry Sanders: While he was truly a hero to my sports region, Barry Sanders was one of the greatest of all time. He kept the Detroit Lions relevant... sort of... Honorable mentions go out to Mickey Redmond and Mike Hart.
21 - Desmond Howard: Again, this is a bit of a region thing, but seriously... who else do you think of when you think of the Heisman? An honorable mention goes out to "Neon" Deion Sanders.
22 - Emmitt Smith: Another one of the G.O.A.T. Smith, along with Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin defined the Cowboys of the 90s.
23 - Michael Jordan: Too easy... even some of the greats have worn 23 in honor of him (LeBron James and David Beckham have both worn 23 in honor).
24 - Ken Griffey Jr.: If you grew up in the 90s, and had any interest in sports, especially baseball, or I suppose watched any sports highlights, ever, you saw Junior on your television screen. He is 24 to me. Honorable mentions to Chris Chelios, Willie Mays, and Kobe Bryant.
25* - Barry Bonds: While the man is more or less scum to us baseball loving folk, he is certainly who I think of when I think of 25. A/an (dis)honorable mention goes to Mark McGwire. I feel obligated to put an asterisk at this number.
26 - Jiri Hudler: While he is one of my favorite current members of the Wings, he is the only one I can really think of. I suppose an honorable mention could go to Rod Woodson?
27 - Juan Marichal: I only remember Juan because of an old highlight tape I used to watch. But, the "Dominican Dandy" was a premier pitcher of the 1960s and pops into my head as far as anyone wearing the 2-7.
28 - Marshall Faulk: The workhorse member of the "Greatest Show on Turf", Faulk lead the resurgance of the St. Louis Rams along with Kurt Warner all the way to Super Bowl XXIV.
29 - Eric Dickerson: While playing in the NFL for 10 years and rushing for over 13,000 yards, Dickerson made rec-specs look good. Dickerson, an All-American at Southern Methodist, in my mind, is as synonymous with 29 as he is with his rec-specs.
Now let the debating begin...
Look for 30-39 sometime tomorrow!
20 - Barry Sanders: While he was truly a hero to my sports region, Barry Sanders was one of the greatest of all time. He kept the Detroit Lions relevant... sort of... Honorable mentions go out to Mickey Redmond and Mike Hart.
21 - Desmond Howard: Again, this is a bit of a region thing, but seriously... who else do you think of when you think of the Heisman? An honorable mention goes out to "Neon" Deion Sanders.
22 - Emmitt Smith: Another one of the G.O.A.T. Smith, along with Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin defined the Cowboys of the 90s.
23 - Michael Jordan: Too easy... even some of the greats have worn 23 in honor of him (LeBron James and David Beckham have both worn 23 in honor).
24 - Ken Griffey Jr.: If you grew up in the 90s, and had any interest in sports, especially baseball, or I suppose watched any sports highlights, ever, you saw Junior on your television screen. He is 24 to me. Honorable mentions to Chris Chelios, Willie Mays, and Kobe Bryant.
25* - Barry Bonds: While the man is more or less scum to us baseball loving folk, he is certainly who I think of when I think of 25. A/an (dis)honorable mention goes to Mark McGwire. I feel obligated to put an asterisk at this number.
26 - Jiri Hudler: While he is one of my favorite current members of the Wings, he is the only one I can really think of. I suppose an honorable mention could go to Rod Woodson?
27 - Juan Marichal: I only remember Juan because of an old highlight tape I used to watch. But, the "Dominican Dandy" was a premier pitcher of the 1960s and pops into my head as far as anyone wearing the 2-7.
28 - Marshall Faulk: The workhorse member of the "Greatest Show on Turf", Faulk lead the resurgance of the St. Louis Rams along with Kurt Warner all the way to Super Bowl XXIV.
29 - Eric Dickerson: While playing in the NFL for 10 years and rushing for over 13,000 yards, Dickerson made rec-specs look good. Dickerson, an All-American at Southern Methodist, in my mind, is as synonymous with 29 as he is with his rec-specs.
Now let the debating begin...
Look for 30-39 sometime tomorrow!
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 10-19
The second installment of my Athletes by the Number segment... time to deal with the teens...
10 - Tom Brady: Much like Drew Henson being my number 7, I automatically tie the number 10 to Tom Brady due to his playing time at Michigan. It is not a Tom Brady Lovefest due to his play in the NFL or his marriage to Gisele. This is from his days in Ann Arbor and his Orange Bowl victory. An honorable mention goes out to Charlie Batch.
11 - Louis Bullock: I'm going to stop explaining my love for Michigan Wolverines while growing up and just say this... Louis Bullock was my favorite player. The rest of my family cheered on Robbie Reid and I was all in for Louis Bullock. Roy Williams while playing for the Lions would certainly be an honorable mention.
12 - Scott Dreisbach: He is the first quarterback at Michigan that I can honestly remember watching and cheering on specifically. His win over Virginia in the Pigskin Classic to open the 1995 season will live on in college football infamy.
13 - Alex Rodriguez: While I would love to name off an athlete that I like, or one that has never cheated in his life, at this point, it is A-Rod as far as number 13. I picture those pinstripes and his 1-3 on his back.
14 - Brian Griese: Again, this is more or less a Michigan Quarterback lovefest for this section so far. But Griese, as sad as this might be, defined my childhood. Him, Charles Woodson, Tai Streets, Jon Jansen, and the rest of the 1997 Michigan Football Team brought back the National Championship to Ann Arbor and I was an impressionable 8 year old kid at the time.
15 - Pat Verbeek: Now I admit, this one is weird. And I don't exactly know why, but when I see the number 15, I instantly think Pat Verbeek. Steve Breaston is a quick number two, but Verbeek, an NHL Journeyman, who had his cup of coffee with the Red Wings, wore the 1-5 and he is the first one that pops to mind. Brandon Inge is also an honorable mention.
16 - Denard Robinson: There have been many a number 16 over the years. But, right now, the only number 16 that matters is Robinson. I really feel weird in admitting this, but I've even told someone before that when I see the number 16 I instantly think of Denard. It is a tad bit weird. Honorable mentions include John Navarre and Vladimir Konstantinov.
17 - Doug Brown: I think this again sort of ties to the Pat Verbeek one. The Red Wings were a staple of my childhood and Doug Brown was a key member of some of the great teams I watched.
18 - Kirk Maltby: Having very recently retired, Maltby was too a staple of my sports watching for over 10 years.
19 - Steve Yzerman: Much like Charles Woodson at number 2, this one is too easy and self explanatory. Scott Mitchell doesn't have anything on Stevie Y.
With the next installment we will be taking on 20-29...
10 - Tom Brady: Much like Drew Henson being my number 7, I automatically tie the number 10 to Tom Brady due to his playing time at Michigan. It is not a Tom Brady Lovefest due to his play in the NFL or his marriage to Gisele. This is from his days in Ann Arbor and his Orange Bowl victory. An honorable mention goes out to Charlie Batch.
11 - Louis Bullock: I'm going to stop explaining my love for Michigan Wolverines while growing up and just say this... Louis Bullock was my favorite player. The rest of my family cheered on Robbie Reid and I was all in for Louis Bullock. Roy Williams while playing for the Lions would certainly be an honorable mention.
12 - Scott Dreisbach: He is the first quarterback at Michigan that I can honestly remember watching and cheering on specifically. His win over Virginia in the Pigskin Classic to open the 1995 season will live on in college football infamy.
13 - Alex Rodriguez: While I would love to name off an athlete that I like, or one that has never cheated in his life, at this point, it is A-Rod as far as number 13. I picture those pinstripes and his 1-3 on his back.
14 - Brian Griese: Again, this is more or less a Michigan Quarterback lovefest for this section so far. But Griese, as sad as this might be, defined my childhood. Him, Charles Woodson, Tai Streets, Jon Jansen, and the rest of the 1997 Michigan Football Team brought back the National Championship to Ann Arbor and I was an impressionable 8 year old kid at the time.
15 - Pat Verbeek: Now I admit, this one is weird. And I don't exactly know why, but when I see the number 15, I instantly think Pat Verbeek. Steve Breaston is a quick number two, but Verbeek, an NHL Journeyman, who had his cup of coffee with the Red Wings, wore the 1-5 and he is the first one that pops to mind. Brandon Inge is also an honorable mention.
16 - Denard Robinson: There have been many a number 16 over the years. But, right now, the only number 16 that matters is Robinson. I really feel weird in admitting this, but I've even told someone before that when I see the number 16 I instantly think of Denard. It is a tad bit weird. Honorable mentions include John Navarre and Vladimir Konstantinov.
17 - Doug Brown: I think this again sort of ties to the Pat Verbeek one. The Red Wings were a staple of my childhood and Doug Brown was a key member of some of the great teams I watched.
18 - Kirk Maltby: Having very recently retired, Maltby was too a staple of my sports watching for over 10 years.
19 - Steve Yzerman: Much like Charles Woodson at number 2, this one is too easy and self explanatory. Scott Mitchell doesn't have anything on Stevie Y.
With the next installment we will be taking on 20-29...
Friday, February 24, 2012
Athletes by the Number: 0-9
I've decided it would be fun to list off an athlete for each number 0-99 that first comes to mind for me. Now, these are who come to MY mind first. Just a fun list...
This will be the first of my ten installments...
0 - Zack Novak: Quite possibly the hardest working man in NCAA Basketball and certainly one of the most sore. How many charges has he taken this season? A gazillion?
1 - Braylon Edwards: Certainly a sign of the times. I'm sure some people will be like, "Um... Anthony Carter?" But, for me, it is Braylon. He is the first one that comes to mind when I think of #1.
2 - Charles Woodson: Too easy. Next...
3 - Alan Trammell: Grew up watching him. Enjoyed his time as manager of the Tigers. Hope that one day he'll be back around the program.
4 - Joe Dumars: While I'm sure many of you instantly thought of former Detroit Red Wing Uwe Krupp, Joe D was the man in Detroit. While the end of his career was spent in teal and... maroon I guess, he was a key member of the championship squads of '89 and '90.
5 - Nicklas Lidstrom: While there is The Captain, Nick has done a solid job filling in for Stevie Y stepped down. One of the greatest Red Wings of all-time, he has defined defensive play in hockey for two decades.
6 - LeBron James: It kills me to say it but at this point, he is number 6 in my mind... although there is certainly an honorable mentions to Prescott Burgess and Victor Hobson...
7 - Drew Henson: I had his jersey (although I got it right before he left, so whenever I wore it again I told everyone that it was a Spencer Brinton jersey). He was a local Southeast Michigan boy. He is who comes to mind.
8 - Troy Aikman and Steve Young: The first Super Bowl that I honestly remember being excited for and watching attentively was Super Bowl XXX. Aikman beat the Steelers for the W. Young and Jerry Rice owned the 90s out in San Fran. These two quarterbacks defined the NFL while I was in elementary school.
9 - Brendan Morrison: This has a lot to do again with who I grew up watching and when I started watching sports. His goal to win Michigan an NCAA Championship in OT was craziness. It is a vague memory, but a memory nonetheless. Honorable mentions certainly go to Gordie Howe and Matthew Stafford. Gordie Howe, while important to me growing up as a Red Wings fan, was more pointed out the first time I ever watched "Ferris Bueller's Day Off". Stafford is certainly making a name for himself in these parts and he could become the #9 in my mind some day soon...
This will be the first of my ten installments...
0 - Zack Novak: Quite possibly the hardest working man in NCAA Basketball and certainly one of the most sore. How many charges has he taken this season? A gazillion?
1 - Braylon Edwards: Certainly a sign of the times. I'm sure some people will be like, "Um... Anthony Carter?" But, for me, it is Braylon. He is the first one that comes to mind when I think of #1.
2 - Charles Woodson: Too easy. Next...
3 - Alan Trammell: Grew up watching him. Enjoyed his time as manager of the Tigers. Hope that one day he'll be back around the program.
4 - Joe Dumars: While I'm sure many of you instantly thought of former Detroit Red Wing Uwe Krupp, Joe D was the man in Detroit. While the end of his career was spent in teal and... maroon I guess, he was a key member of the championship squads of '89 and '90.
5 - Nicklas Lidstrom: While there is The Captain, Nick has done a solid job filling in for Stevie Y stepped down. One of the greatest Red Wings of all-time, he has defined defensive play in hockey for two decades.
6 - LeBron James: It kills me to say it but at this point, he is number 6 in my mind... although there is certainly an honorable mentions to Prescott Burgess and Victor Hobson...
7 - Drew Henson: I had his jersey (although I got it right before he left, so whenever I wore it again I told everyone that it was a Spencer Brinton jersey). He was a local Southeast Michigan boy. He is who comes to mind.
8 - Troy Aikman and Steve Young: The first Super Bowl that I honestly remember being excited for and watching attentively was Super Bowl XXX. Aikman beat the Steelers for the W. Young and Jerry Rice owned the 90s out in San Fran. These two quarterbacks defined the NFL while I was in elementary school.
9 - Brendan Morrison: This has a lot to do again with who I grew up watching and when I started watching sports. His goal to win Michigan an NCAA Championship in OT was craziness. It is a vague memory, but a memory nonetheless. Honorable mentions certainly go to Gordie Howe and Matthew Stafford. Gordie Howe, while important to me growing up as a Red Wings fan, was more pointed out the first time I ever watched "Ferris Bueller's Day Off". Stafford is certainly making a name for himself in these parts and he could become the #9 in my mind some day soon...
Monday, February 13, 2012
Top 5 Valentine's Day Related Sports Names
1. Bobby Valentine: I mean, the guy's last name is Valentine. I think he wins.2. Mike Hart: One of Michigan's greatest running backs ever. He played tough every down. No one ever questioned his heart... hahaha, ok. Bad joke.
3. Red Berenson: While his first name isn't actually Red (it is Gordon), many say his name came from his love of Valentine's Day. He would sing love songs, give out candy, and consistently romance the ladies back in the day. There may be little to no proof of this, but we have all the evidence we need with that sparkle in his eye that comes around this time of the year.
4. Pete Rose: Charlie Hustle's family name came from the countless rose garden's they grew across the country side... or something like that.
5a. Coco Crisp: While he sounds more like a delicious cereal, every guy knows that the key to a girl's heart is through this guy's first name.
5b. Babe Ruth: Who doesn't want a hot babe for a date on Valentine's Day?
Honorable Mention. Kevin Love: I would have him on the list except for the fact that I have had a general disdain for that man ever since he played against Michigan in late 2007. I hear he's a very nice guy though.
Honorable Mention. Kevin Love: I would have him on the list except for the fact that I have had a general disdain for that man ever since he played against Michigan in late 2007. I hear he's a very nice guy though.
Anyway, I hope you all have a wonderful SAINT Valentine's Day (yes... it is a saint's feast day, not just a Hallmark created event for men to spend way too much money to impress their significant other) and I leave you with a message from Zach Randolph...
Monday, February 6, 2012
Super Bowl XLVI in Recap
If anyone tries to tell me that Eli Manning is a better quarterback than Tom Brady, or better yet his brother Peyton, they have no idea what they are talking about. To be honest, I still do not believe that Eli Manning is a top-tier quarterback. Trent Dilfer won a Super Bowl. Fran Tarkenton went 0-3. Heck, even Jim Kelly went 0-4. Super Bowls are important, but I would still easily rank Dan Marino ahead of Mr. Elisha Nelson Manning. Anyway, congratulations to the New York Giants and former Michigan players Mario Manningham, David Baas, Jerald Ingram and former assistant coach Jim Herrmann. I was rooting for the Patriots and was disappointed just like I was four years ago... oh well...
Favorite Super Bowl Commercial? This one...
Least Favorite Super Bowl Commercial? This one...
Totally Awesome Commercial That Automatically Is My Favorite Even Though The M&M's One Was Cool? This one...
All in all, it was a pretty great game. You can't complain too much when a game comes down to a final play. And Rob Gronkowski was one healthy ankle away from making that catch at the end! Oh well. I hope the New York Giants fans enjoy this time, but know that next year the Motor City Kitties will be playing in Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans. GO LIONS!
Favorite Super Bowl Commercial? This one...
Least Favorite Super Bowl Commercial? This one...
Totally Awesome Commercial That Automatically Is My Favorite Even Though The M&M's One Was Cool? This one...
All in all, it was a pretty great game. You can't complain too much when a game comes down to a final play. And Rob Gronkowski was one healthy ankle away from making that catch at the end! Oh well. I hope the New York Giants fans enjoy this time, but know that next year the Motor City Kitties will be playing in Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans. GO LIONS!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
2012 Detroit Tigers Prospective Starting Lineup
Going off of what the MLB Network provided as the potential starting lineup, here is what the 2012 Tigers offensive lineup did last season...
BA OBP RBI HR
1 - CF Austin Jackson .249 .317 45 10
2 - RF Brennan Boesch .283 .341 54 16
3 - DH Miguel Cabrera .344 .448 105 30
4 - 1B Prince Fielder .299 .415 120 38
5 - LF Delmon Young .268 .302 64 12
6 - SS Jhonny Peralta .299 .345 86 21
7 - C Alex Avila .295 .389 82 19
8 - 3B Brandon Inge .197 .265 23 3
9 - 2B Ramon Santiago .260 .311 30 5
And just for "These guys will also probably play a lot's sake..."
Don Kelly .245 .291 28 7
Ryan Raburn .256 .297 49 14
As a Tiger's Fan... I am so hype after the news of a former Tiger's son joining the team today...
BA OBP RBI HR
1 - CF Austin Jackson .249 .317 45 10
2 - RF Brennan Boesch .283 .341 54 16
3 - DH Miguel Cabrera .344 .448 105 30
4 - 1B Prince Fielder .299 .415 120 38
5 - LF Delmon Young .268 .302 64 12
6 - SS Jhonny Peralta .299 .345 86 21
7 - C Alex Avila .295 .389 82 19
8 - 3B Brandon Inge .197 .265 23 3
9 - 2B Ramon Santiago .260 .311 30 5
And just for "These guys will also probably play a lot's sake..."
Don Kelly .245 .291 28 7
Ryan Raburn .256 .297 49 14
As a Tiger's Fan... I am so hype after the news of a former Tiger's son joining the team today...
Michigan Quarterbacks: Where are they now?
So I was watching old Michigan Football clips. Not really sure how I got on that, but I was. (I think it had something to do with watching old Penn State and Joe Paterno clips... speaking of which, thoughts and prayers with the Paternos and the entire Penn State family). Moving on, I came across a few Elvis Grbac to Desmond Howard plays and it got me thinking as to what Grbac is doing with his life now. I know he played in the NFL for a bit, but he is out of the league now. So, what is he doing? After a bit, I started looking up other former Michigan quarterbacks. We all know where a certain one is right now (I'll give you a hint: his season isn't over and his name isn't Eli Manning). I decided to look up all of the Michigan starting quarterbacks from 1989 (my year of birth) until now. So, without further ado, Michigan Quarterbacks: Where are they now?
Michael Taylor (1986-1989): Michael Taylor played under Bo during his last four years as the head coach at UofM. Taylor was the starting quarterback during the 1988 and 1989 seasons, leading them to Big Ten Championships during both seasons. He left Michigan as the school's all-time leader in passing efficiency and unfortunately lost to USC in the 1990 Rose Bowl in his last game. So where is he now? After leaving UofM on sour terms (Michigan refused to pay for him to have arm surgery unless it was performed by a University doctor), Taylor wanted to have nothing to do with the University until 2000 or so. Apparently his wife talked him into getting involved again and Taylor began to assist in football coverage with Ann Arbor's WTKA.
Elvis Grbac (1989-1992): Grbac took over in 1990 as the starting quarterback after Michael Taylor graduated. Grbac had started a few games in the 1989 season after Taylor had become injured. Grbac lead Michigan to a beat down of Ole Miss in the 1991 Gator Bowl after finishing 8-3 in the regular season. They were co-Big Ten Champions in 1990 and it was just the beginning of a beautiful relationship between two high school buddies. Grbac was the starting quarterback during Desmond Howard's Heisman Trophy season of 1991 and threw this gem to Howard. In the end, he lead Michigan to two Rose Bowls and set Michigan passing records for attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns. They were all broken by John Navarre and later surpassed by Chad Henne. So where is he now? Grbac was drafted in the 8th round of the 1993 NFL Draft, backed up Steve Young before signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1997 to be their starting quarterback. He played there until 2001 when he signed with the Baltimore Ravens to replace Trent Dilfer. He retired with at least another 3-5 good years left you would think. According to the Kansas City Star, as of 2007, he was living in Chagrin Falls, Ohio and just living the dream. It is a small town, and he is not a highly known guy. He just sort of lives. Gets coffee. Reads the newspaper. I suppose you can do that when you made millions of dollars for a few years.
Todd Collins (1990-1994): Collins redshirted the 1990 season and took over in 1993 as the starting quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines. Collins lead Michigan to Hall of Fame and Holiday Bowl victories in the 1993 and 1994 seasons respectively. Collins unfortunately is probably most remembered as the quarterback of the 1994 team who lost to Kordell Stewart on a last second Hail Mary pass. Collins currently holds the career completion record with a 64.3 percentage. He was also the quarterback for Gary Moeller's last season at Michigan. So where is he now? Collins was drafted in the second round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He earned the Bills backup job behind Jim Kelly, played in seven games, and had one start. He took over as the started in 1997 after Kelly retired and played in 14 games, with 13 starts. In 1998 he moved to the Kansas City Chiefs where he backed up fellow former Michigan quarterback Elvis Grbac. He was listed as third string behind second stringers Rich Gannon and Warren Moon. From 2001 to 2005 he played in 12 games. In 2006 Collins signed with the Washington Redskins. In 2007, he replaced Redksins quarterback Jason Campbell, who was injured. He took over a team that was 5-7 and won 4 consecutive games to give the Redskins a winning season and clinched them a playoff birth. They lost the game to the Seattle Seahawks. Collins continued to back up Campbell in 2008 and 2009. Collins signed with the Chicago Bears for the 2010 season and was Jay Cutler's backup. He saw action in one game, which was his last action of his career.
Scott Dreisbach (1994-1998): Dreisbach redshirted his freshman year and took over the reigns as starting quarterback in 1995. In his first game, as well as Lloyd Carr's first game as head coach, Dreisbach lead a comeback victory over Virginia in the Pigskin Classic as America watched on and Michigan won on a last second pass to Mercury Hayes in the corner of the end zone. I will fully admit right now, this is one of my farthest back memories of watching Michigan Football. I was six years old and I vaguely remember jumping around in our house... vaguely... Anywho, Dreisbach was haunted his entire career by tough competition and injuries. Dreisbach was later benched due to injury during the 1995 season and Brian Griese started the rest of the year. Dreisbach started 11 games in the 1996 season by did not start the bowl game thanks to injury. Brian Griese started the bowl game and then took over the starting role for the 1997 season. So where is he now? Dreisbach was signed as an undrafted free-agent after not starting a game in either of his last two seasons at Michigan. From 1999 to 2003 he spent time on the rosters of the Oakland Raiders, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions. He never saw any regular season playing time in the NFL. He also spent some time playing in NFL Europe. From 2003 until 2007 Dreisbach played in the Arena Football League. He is now retired and works in Houston, Texas as the Vice President of Sales for McCoy Floor Covering.
Brian Griese (1993-1997): Griese redshirted his first year at Michigan then was listed as a backup behind Todd Collins for the 1994 season and was Scott Dreisbach's backup throughout the 1995 and 1996 seasons. Griese started both bowl games at the end of the 1995 and 1996 seasons (Alamo and Outback Bowls respectively). He then became the starting quarterback at the beginning of the 1997 season and lead Michigan to a Rose Bowl victory, undefeated season, and a split National Championship with Nebraska. So where is he now? Griese was drafted in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He was a backup to John Elways and Bubby Brister throughout his first season, although he won a Super Bowl that season. He took over as starter of the Broncos in 1999 after Elways retired. He was released by the Broncos after the 2002 season when they picked up Jake Plummer. He then had stints with the Dolphins (backing up Jay Fiedler), Buccaneers (twice), and the Bears (splitting time with Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton). Griese has been a college football analyst since 2009 for ESPN and has also done radio color commentating for KOA (AM)'s coverage of Denver Bronco football.
Tom Brady (1995-1999): Brady redshirted his first season at Michigan and then backed up both Scott Dreisbach and Brian Griese before he took over as the starting quarterback roll in 1998. Brady was consistently ridiculed by fans and football critics alike. Many called for Lloyd Carr to let the freshman phenom, Drew Henson, get behind center. Brady had a rough start in '98, losing his first two games at Notre Dame and at home versus Syracuse. Brady lead Michigan to a win over Arkansas in the Citrus Bowl and set records in pass attempts in a season as well as completions in a season. In the 1999 season, Brady lead the Wolverines to a 10-2 record and an Orange Bowl win over a Shaun Alexander lead Alabama Crimson Tide football team. So where is he now? I don't think I need to explain much other than that he was drafted in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft (Pick 199). He was the fourth string quarterback in his first season behind Drew Bledose, John Friesz, and Michael Bishop. Brady earned the backup spot by the next season and when Drew Bledsoe was knocked out of the game during their home opener on September 23, Brady never gave him back the starting job. Brady is a three-time Super Bowl Champion, seven-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time Super Bowl MVP, and will be the starting quarterback for the New England Patriots in this year's Super Bowl. Oh, and he has a child with Bridget Moynahan and is married to Gisele Bundchen.
Drew Henson (1998-2000): Henson backed up Tom Brady during the 1998 and 1999 seasons. He was a highly recruited high school athlete out of near-by Brighton High School. He was a fan favorite throughout his two years as a backup and certainly saw his time in the field. He saw action in 7 of Michigan's 13 games his freshman year and in nine games his sophomore year. In his junior year, Henson appeared in nine of Michigan's 12 games and lead Michigan to a share of the Big Ten title. Henson is actually the last Michigan quarterback to lead his team to a victory at The Horseshoe in Columbus. Where is he now? Henson had been selected in the third round with the 97th overall selection in the 1998 MLB Draft by the New York Yankees. He left Michigan a year early to begin his professional baseball career. He began his minor league career with the Tampa Yankees. In 2000 he was part of a trade to the Cincinnati Reds for Denny Neagle. In 2001, he was traded back to the Yankees in a trade for Wily Mo Pena. While playing with the Yankees' AAA team, the Columbus Clippers, Henson was often booed because he went to Michigan. He made his major league debut in 2002, playing in only three games. In 2003 he played in five games. After the 2003 season, he announced his retirement from baseball and announced his intent to return to football. The Houston Texans had selected Henson in the 2003 NFL Draft. Henson joined the Dallas Cowboys who had traded their third round pick in the 2005 NFL Draft in exchange for Henson. Henson started the 2004 Thanksgiving Day game versus the Chicago Bears. Henson finished the season going 10 for 18 with 78 yards. In 2005, Henson fell back to third string behind Drew Bledsoe and Tony Romo. Henson spent the 2006 off-season in NFL Europe and was later released prior-to the 2006 season. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings to their practice squad on September 27, 2006, released on October 10, then re-signed on December 6. He then signed a one year deal on March 15, 2007 with the Vikings, but was cut during training camp. He spent the 2008 season being on the practice squad and occasionally being signed to the roster by the Detroit Lions. He appeared in one game that season, going 1-2 passing and fumbling on back-to-back plays. He was released by the Lions on April 28, 2009. He now does a bit of color commentary for ESPN3.com and recently started a financial management company for athletes, which he started five or six years ago.
John Navarre (1999-2003): Navarre redshirted his freshman year of 1999 and was Henson's backup throughout the 2000 season. Henson was injured to begin the 2000 season and Navarre started the first four games. After leading the Wolverines to a 2-1 record to begin, only losing to a ranked UCLA team on the road. Navarre threw for 2,345 yards and 19 touchdowns in his first full season as Michigan's starting quarterback in 2001 but was beat down by Tennessee in the Citrul Bowl at the end of the year. In his junior year, Navarre lead Michigan to a 9-3 record and threw for a career-high 219 yards in a win over Florida in the Outback Bowl. In Navarre's final season, he lead the Wolverines to a 10-3 overall record, Rose Bowl appearance, and wins over Ohio State and Notre Dame. He still currently holds Michigan records for most pass attempts in a season (456 in 2003), most pass completions in a season (270 in 2003), most passing yards in a season (3,331 in 2003), most passing yards in a game (389 in 2003 vs Iowa), most touchdown passes in a game (4, on three occasions, which is a tie), and most total offensive plays in a season (504 in 2003). Where is he now? Navarre was drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He was their third string quarterback during the 2004 and 2005 seasons. He started one game for the Cardinals, in 2004 vs the Detroit Lions. He is now retired from football and currently resides in Waterford, Wisconsin and works for a ALRO Steel Milwaukee Branch. He still comes back for games frequently.
Chad Henne (2004-2007): Henne started his first collegiate game in 2004 after listed first-stringer Matt Gutierrez had injured his shoulder. He ended his first game with a 43-10 win over Miami University, completing 14 of 24 passes for 142 yards. He was the second freshman to start his first game ever in Michigan football history (Rich Leach in 1975 was the other). Michigan finished the season 9-3 and Henne never gave up his starting role. He lead Michigan to a bowl game in each of his four seasons, two Rose Bowls, an Alamo Bowl, and the Capital One Bowl, finishing 1-3 in bowl games. Although his bowl game record was not great, he certainly had a few great endings. Henne spent his senior season hit with the injury bug and turned a horrible start into a phenomenal finish. He split time with freshman-phenom Ryan Mallett and lead Michigan to a victory in the Capital One Bowl over the reigning Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow lead Florida Gators. So where is he now? Chad Henne was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He spent the 2008 season as Chad Pennington's backup. He came in early in the 2009 season after Pennington had been knocked out of the game and has been the starter ever since. Early in the 2011 season Henne seperated his non-throwing arm and required surgery and missed the remainder of the year. He is scheduled to be a free-agent this offseason.
Ryan Mallett (2007*): Mallett came in as a highly touted All-American recruit who would be the next great Michigan quarterback. He was a prime pocket-passer out of Texarkana, Texas. He was named the Gatorade Player of the Year in 2006, his senior year of high school. After Chad Henne was injured in the second game of the year against Oregon. Mallett started three other games for Michigan during the 2007 season. After Lloyd Carr announced he was retiring at the end of the season, Mallet decided to transfer. So where is he now? Ryan Mallett transferred to Arkansas on January 14, 2008 and sat out the 2008 season due to NCAA transfer policies. In his first season under center, he lead Arkansas to an 8-5 record and a win in the 2010 Liberty Bowl victory over East Carolina in OT. In 2010, he lead the Razorbacks to a 10-3 record finishing with a loss to Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl. He declared for the 2011 NFL Draft and was drafted in the third round by the New England Patriots and spent this past season, his rookie year, as the third string quarterback behind Tom Brady and Brian Hoyer.
Nick Sheridan (2006-2009): Sheridan saw little playing time in 2006 and 2007. But, in 2008, after the roster had been severely depleted and new coach Rich Rodriguez was left with little to nothing, Nick Sheridan, a former assistant coach's son, started the first game of the year and Rich Rodriguez's tenure at Michigan. It certainly did not go according to plan. Sheridan split playing time with Steven Threet throughout the rest of the season and even lead Michigan to a heck of a win at Minnesota. It was one of few bright spots in the 3-9 2008 Michigan Football season. So where is he now? Nick was a graduate assistant with the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers and recently was named a higher up graduate assistant.
Steven Threet (2007-2008): Threet was a highly rated prospect out of near-by Adrian, MI who had originally began his career with Georgia Tech. After realizing the system did not fit his play very well, as well as a case of being homesick, Threet transferred back to Michigan and to Ann Arbor during the 2007 season, which he sat out entirely. Threet started the majority of the games in the 2008 season for Michigan. After Rich Rodriguez had made it clear that his next quarterback for the 2009 season would be incoming freshman Tate Forcier. So where is he now? Threet transferred to Arizona State after the 2008 season and sat out the 2009 season due to NCAA eligibility requirements. Threet was the starting quarterback for the majority of the 2010 season for Arizona State. He finished the season with 2,553 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. On February 23, 2011, Threet announced his retirement from football due to repeated concussions.
Tate Forcier (2009-2010): Tate joined the Michigan Football program with a swagger that hadn't been seen in quite a while. He started every game of the 2009 season, finishing with a 5-7 record. He split time with fellow freshman, and current starting quarterback, Denard Robinson. Tate lost his starting position over the off-season after failing to prove his devotion to getting better (watching film, volunteer workouts, etc.) and never gained it back. He got in occasionally throughout the 2010 season, but after being sent home from the Gator Bowl for becoming academically ineligible, he transferred to Miami (or intended to, then transferred to San Jose St.). Where is he now? It was recently reported that Tate had left the San Jose St. football program.
So that is it. This is my report on starting quarterbacks during my lifetime. I can't write about our current one because, well... his story while wearing the winged helmet is not done. If you read all of this, I hope you found it as interesting as I did. I put a lot of effort into it. Did a lot of research. Probably the largest amount of reading that I have done in a few months. Thanks again and GO BLUE!
-Kevin
Michael Taylor (1986-1989): Michael Taylor played under Bo during his last four years as the head coach at UofM. Taylor was the starting quarterback during the 1988 and 1989 seasons, leading them to Big Ten Championships during both seasons. He left Michigan as the school's all-time leader in passing efficiency and unfortunately lost to USC in the 1990 Rose Bowl in his last game. So where is he now? After leaving UofM on sour terms (Michigan refused to pay for him to have arm surgery unless it was performed by a University doctor), Taylor wanted to have nothing to do with the University until 2000 or so. Apparently his wife talked him into getting involved again and Taylor began to assist in football coverage with Ann Arbor's WTKA.
Elvis Grbac (1989-1992): Grbac took over in 1990 as the starting quarterback after Michael Taylor graduated. Grbac had started a few games in the 1989 season after Taylor had become injured. Grbac lead Michigan to a beat down of Ole Miss in the 1991 Gator Bowl after finishing 8-3 in the regular season. They were co-Big Ten Champions in 1990 and it was just the beginning of a beautiful relationship between two high school buddies. Grbac was the starting quarterback during Desmond Howard's Heisman Trophy season of 1991 and threw this gem to Howard. In the end, he lead Michigan to two Rose Bowls and set Michigan passing records for attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns. They were all broken by John Navarre and later surpassed by Chad Henne. So where is he now? Grbac was drafted in the 8th round of the 1993 NFL Draft, backed up Steve Young before signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1997 to be their starting quarterback. He played there until 2001 when he signed with the Baltimore Ravens to replace Trent Dilfer. He retired with at least another 3-5 good years left you would think. According to the Kansas City Star, as of 2007, he was living in Chagrin Falls, Ohio and just living the dream. It is a small town, and he is not a highly known guy. He just sort of lives. Gets coffee. Reads the newspaper. I suppose you can do that when you made millions of dollars for a few years.
Todd Collins (1990-1994): Collins redshirted the 1990 season and took over in 1993 as the starting quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines. Collins lead Michigan to Hall of Fame and Holiday Bowl victories in the 1993 and 1994 seasons respectively. Collins unfortunately is probably most remembered as the quarterback of the 1994 team who lost to Kordell Stewart on a last second Hail Mary pass. Collins currently holds the career completion record with a 64.3 percentage. He was also the quarterback for Gary Moeller's last season at Michigan. So where is he now? Collins was drafted in the second round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He earned the Bills backup job behind Jim Kelly, played in seven games, and had one start. He took over as the started in 1997 after Kelly retired and played in 14 games, with 13 starts. In 1998 he moved to the Kansas City Chiefs where he backed up fellow former Michigan quarterback Elvis Grbac. He was listed as third string behind second stringers Rich Gannon and Warren Moon. From 2001 to 2005 he played in 12 games. In 2006 Collins signed with the Washington Redskins. In 2007, he replaced Redksins quarterback Jason Campbell, who was injured. He took over a team that was 5-7 and won 4 consecutive games to give the Redskins a winning season and clinched them a playoff birth. They lost the game to the Seattle Seahawks. Collins continued to back up Campbell in 2008 and 2009. Collins signed with the Chicago Bears for the 2010 season and was Jay Cutler's backup. He saw action in one game, which was his last action of his career.
Scott Dreisbach (1994-1998): Dreisbach redshirted his freshman year and took over the reigns as starting quarterback in 1995. In his first game, as well as Lloyd Carr's first game as head coach, Dreisbach lead a comeback victory over Virginia in the Pigskin Classic as America watched on and Michigan won on a last second pass to Mercury Hayes in the corner of the end zone. I will fully admit right now, this is one of my farthest back memories of watching Michigan Football. I was six years old and I vaguely remember jumping around in our house... vaguely... Anywho, Dreisbach was haunted his entire career by tough competition and injuries. Dreisbach was later benched due to injury during the 1995 season and Brian Griese started the rest of the year. Dreisbach started 11 games in the 1996 season by did not start the bowl game thanks to injury. Brian Griese started the bowl game and then took over the starting role for the 1997 season. So where is he now? Dreisbach was signed as an undrafted free-agent after not starting a game in either of his last two seasons at Michigan. From 1999 to 2003 he spent time on the rosters of the Oakland Raiders, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions. He never saw any regular season playing time in the NFL. He also spent some time playing in NFL Europe. From 2003 until 2007 Dreisbach played in the Arena Football League. He is now retired and works in Houston, Texas as the Vice President of Sales for McCoy Floor Covering.
Brian Griese (1993-1997): Griese redshirted his first year at Michigan then was listed as a backup behind Todd Collins for the 1994 season and was Scott Dreisbach's backup throughout the 1995 and 1996 seasons. Griese started both bowl games at the end of the 1995 and 1996 seasons (Alamo and Outback Bowls respectively). He then became the starting quarterback at the beginning of the 1997 season and lead Michigan to a Rose Bowl victory, undefeated season, and a split National Championship with Nebraska. So where is he now? Griese was drafted in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He was a backup to John Elways and Bubby Brister throughout his first season, although he won a Super Bowl that season. He took over as starter of the Broncos in 1999 after Elways retired. He was released by the Broncos after the 2002 season when they picked up Jake Plummer. He then had stints with the Dolphins (backing up Jay Fiedler), Buccaneers (twice), and the Bears (splitting time with Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton). Griese has been a college football analyst since 2009 for ESPN and has also done radio color commentating for KOA (AM)'s coverage of Denver Bronco football.
Tom Brady (1995-1999): Brady redshirted his first season at Michigan and then backed up both Scott Dreisbach and Brian Griese before he took over as the starting quarterback roll in 1998. Brady was consistently ridiculed by fans and football critics alike. Many called for Lloyd Carr to let the freshman phenom, Drew Henson, get behind center. Brady had a rough start in '98, losing his first two games at Notre Dame and at home versus Syracuse. Brady lead Michigan to a win over Arkansas in the Citrus Bowl and set records in pass attempts in a season as well as completions in a season. In the 1999 season, Brady lead the Wolverines to a 10-2 record and an Orange Bowl win over a Shaun Alexander lead Alabama Crimson Tide football team. So where is he now? I don't think I need to explain much other than that he was drafted in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft (Pick 199). He was the fourth string quarterback in his first season behind Drew Bledose, John Friesz, and Michael Bishop. Brady earned the backup spot by the next season and when Drew Bledsoe was knocked out of the game during their home opener on September 23, Brady never gave him back the starting job. Brady is a three-time Super Bowl Champion, seven-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time Super Bowl MVP, and will be the starting quarterback for the New England Patriots in this year's Super Bowl. Oh, and he has a child with Bridget Moynahan and is married to Gisele Bundchen.
Drew Henson (1998-2000): Henson backed up Tom Brady during the 1998 and 1999 seasons. He was a highly recruited high school athlete out of near-by Brighton High School. He was a fan favorite throughout his two years as a backup and certainly saw his time in the field. He saw action in 7 of Michigan's 13 games his freshman year and in nine games his sophomore year. In his junior year, Henson appeared in nine of Michigan's 12 games and lead Michigan to a share of the Big Ten title. Henson is actually the last Michigan quarterback to lead his team to a victory at The Horseshoe in Columbus. Where is he now? Henson had been selected in the third round with the 97th overall selection in the 1998 MLB Draft by the New York Yankees. He left Michigan a year early to begin his professional baseball career. He began his minor league career with the Tampa Yankees. In 2000 he was part of a trade to the Cincinnati Reds for Denny Neagle. In 2001, he was traded back to the Yankees in a trade for Wily Mo Pena. While playing with the Yankees' AAA team, the Columbus Clippers, Henson was often booed because he went to Michigan. He made his major league debut in 2002, playing in only three games. In 2003 he played in five games. After the 2003 season, he announced his retirement from baseball and announced his intent to return to football. The Houston Texans had selected Henson in the 2003 NFL Draft. Henson joined the Dallas Cowboys who had traded their third round pick in the 2005 NFL Draft in exchange for Henson. Henson started the 2004 Thanksgiving Day game versus the Chicago Bears. Henson finished the season going 10 for 18 with 78 yards. In 2005, Henson fell back to third string behind Drew Bledsoe and Tony Romo. Henson spent the 2006 off-season in NFL Europe and was later released prior-to the 2006 season. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings to their practice squad on September 27, 2006, released on October 10, then re-signed on December 6. He then signed a one year deal on March 15, 2007 with the Vikings, but was cut during training camp. He spent the 2008 season being on the practice squad and occasionally being signed to the roster by the Detroit Lions. He appeared in one game that season, going 1-2 passing and fumbling on back-to-back plays. He was released by the Lions on April 28, 2009. He now does a bit of color commentary for ESPN3.com and recently started a financial management company for athletes, which he started five or six years ago.
John Navarre (1999-2003): Navarre redshirted his freshman year of 1999 and was Henson's backup throughout the 2000 season. Henson was injured to begin the 2000 season and Navarre started the first four games. After leading the Wolverines to a 2-1 record to begin, only losing to a ranked UCLA team on the road. Navarre threw for 2,345 yards and 19 touchdowns in his first full season as Michigan's starting quarterback in 2001 but was beat down by Tennessee in the Citrul Bowl at the end of the year. In his junior year, Navarre lead Michigan to a 9-3 record and threw for a career-high 219 yards in a win over Florida in the Outback Bowl. In Navarre's final season, he lead the Wolverines to a 10-3 overall record, Rose Bowl appearance, and wins over Ohio State and Notre Dame. He still currently holds Michigan records for most pass attempts in a season (456 in 2003), most pass completions in a season (270 in 2003), most passing yards in a season (3,331 in 2003), most passing yards in a game (389 in 2003 vs Iowa), most touchdown passes in a game (4, on three occasions, which is a tie), and most total offensive plays in a season (504 in 2003). Where is he now? Navarre was drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He was their third string quarterback during the 2004 and 2005 seasons. He started one game for the Cardinals, in 2004 vs the Detroit Lions. He is now retired from football and currently resides in Waterford, Wisconsin and works for a ALRO Steel Milwaukee Branch. He still comes back for games frequently.
Chad Henne (2004-2007): Henne started his first collegiate game in 2004 after listed first-stringer Matt Gutierrez had injured his shoulder. He ended his first game with a 43-10 win over Miami University, completing 14 of 24 passes for 142 yards. He was the second freshman to start his first game ever in Michigan football history (Rich Leach in 1975 was the other). Michigan finished the season 9-3 and Henne never gave up his starting role. He lead Michigan to a bowl game in each of his four seasons, two Rose Bowls, an Alamo Bowl, and the Capital One Bowl, finishing 1-3 in bowl games. Although his bowl game record was not great, he certainly had a few great endings. Henne spent his senior season hit with the injury bug and turned a horrible start into a phenomenal finish. He split time with freshman-phenom Ryan Mallett and lead Michigan to a victory in the Capital One Bowl over the reigning Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow lead Florida Gators. So where is he now? Chad Henne was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He spent the 2008 season as Chad Pennington's backup. He came in early in the 2009 season after Pennington had been knocked out of the game and has been the starter ever since. Early in the 2011 season Henne seperated his non-throwing arm and required surgery and missed the remainder of the year. He is scheduled to be a free-agent this offseason.
Ryan Mallett (2007*): Mallett came in as a highly touted All-American recruit who would be the next great Michigan quarterback. He was a prime pocket-passer out of Texarkana, Texas. He was named the Gatorade Player of the Year in 2006, his senior year of high school. After Chad Henne was injured in the second game of the year against Oregon. Mallett started three other games for Michigan during the 2007 season. After Lloyd Carr announced he was retiring at the end of the season, Mallet decided to transfer. So where is he now? Ryan Mallett transferred to Arkansas on January 14, 2008 and sat out the 2008 season due to NCAA transfer policies. In his first season under center, he lead Arkansas to an 8-5 record and a win in the 2010 Liberty Bowl victory over East Carolina in OT. In 2010, he lead the Razorbacks to a 10-3 record finishing with a loss to Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl. He declared for the 2011 NFL Draft and was drafted in the third round by the New England Patriots and spent this past season, his rookie year, as the third string quarterback behind Tom Brady and Brian Hoyer.
Nick Sheridan (2006-2009): Sheridan saw little playing time in 2006 and 2007. But, in 2008, after the roster had been severely depleted and new coach Rich Rodriguez was left with little to nothing, Nick Sheridan, a former assistant coach's son, started the first game of the year and Rich Rodriguez's tenure at Michigan. It certainly did not go according to plan. Sheridan split playing time with Steven Threet throughout the rest of the season and even lead Michigan to a heck of a win at Minnesota. It was one of few bright spots in the 3-9 2008 Michigan Football season. So where is he now? Nick was a graduate assistant with the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers and recently was named a higher up graduate assistant.
Steven Threet (2007-2008): Threet was a highly rated prospect out of near-by Adrian, MI who had originally began his career with Georgia Tech. After realizing the system did not fit his play very well, as well as a case of being homesick, Threet transferred back to Michigan and to Ann Arbor during the 2007 season, which he sat out entirely. Threet started the majority of the games in the 2008 season for Michigan. After Rich Rodriguez had made it clear that his next quarterback for the 2009 season would be incoming freshman Tate Forcier. So where is he now? Threet transferred to Arizona State after the 2008 season and sat out the 2009 season due to NCAA eligibility requirements. Threet was the starting quarterback for the majority of the 2010 season for Arizona State. He finished the season with 2,553 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. On February 23, 2011, Threet announced his retirement from football due to repeated concussions.
Tate Forcier (2009-2010): Tate joined the Michigan Football program with a swagger that hadn't been seen in quite a while. He started every game of the 2009 season, finishing with a 5-7 record. He split time with fellow freshman, and current starting quarterback, Denard Robinson. Tate lost his starting position over the off-season after failing to prove his devotion to getting better (watching film, volunteer workouts, etc.) and never gained it back. He got in occasionally throughout the 2010 season, but after being sent home from the Gator Bowl for becoming academically ineligible, he transferred to Miami (or intended to, then transferred to San Jose St.). Where is he now? It was recently reported that Tate had left the San Jose St. football program.
So that is it. This is my report on starting quarterbacks during my lifetime. I can't write about our current one because, well... his story while wearing the winged helmet is not done. If you read all of this, I hope you found it as interesting as I did. I put a lot of effort into it. Did a lot of research. Probably the largest amount of reading that I have done in a few months. Thanks again and GO BLUE!
-Kevin
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
So... Why Don't They Have Hockey?
I was recently talking with my dad about how Marquette University (where my brother goes) doesn't have some big sports that, honestly, I would think that they should. Obviously, funding a lot of different athletic programs costs a lot of money, and very few collegiate athletic departments run profitable programs. As an alum (gosh that is weird to say) of the University of Michigan, I am spoiled and we have one of the greatest athletic departments in the country. Anyway, if money was not a problem, I started thinking of colleges and universities that should definitely have D-1 hockey programs. Here is a bit of a list...
- Marquette: The Bradley Center already has a hockey team play there. What is one more team?
- Indiana: If Alabama-Huntsville can have a team, why can't they? And they would be a solid addition to the new Big Ten Hockey Conference that begins play in the 2013-2014 season.
- Illinois: More or less the same as Indiana. Plus, how cool would their jerseys be? Orange and blue with the Chief Illiniwek logo on the front? It'd be cool...
- Northwestern: See any other Big Ten school, plus the Chicago market? It has to happen...
- Iowa: I've been there when it is cold. I know that there are hockey fans. Ready. Set. Go.
- Syracuse: Carrier Dome could easily fit a hockey rink. They are a fairy large athletic department. Considering the popularity of their lacrosse program, I would think that hockey would be successful. Plus they have a minor league team in Syracuse. Obviously hockey is fairly popular.
- Kentucky: I just wanna see this on a regular basis... perhaps even on tv...
- Eastern Michigan: If Western Michigan and Northern Michigan can put together a team, why can't Eastern? It would automatically create another chapter of the Battle for Washtenaw County. Convocation Center hockey? I think so...
- Central Michigan: Sure. Why not?
- Nebraska: If Nebraska-Omaha can rock their UNO jerseys with pride in D-1, why can't Big Red have a squad?
- Columbia: Other Ivy League schools have teams. They could play at MSG. Perfect.
- Utah: If they can host the Winter Olympics, they can put together a D-1 Hockey team.
- Colorado: Denver has one... Colorado College has one... I want to see the Buffs.
These are just a few off the top of my head... any other suggestions?
-Kevin
- Marquette: The Bradley Center already has a hockey team play there. What is one more team?
- Indiana: If Alabama-Huntsville can have a team, why can't they? And they would be a solid addition to the new Big Ten Hockey Conference that begins play in the 2013-2014 season.
- Illinois: More or less the same as Indiana. Plus, how cool would their jerseys be? Orange and blue with the Chief Illiniwek logo on the front? It'd be cool...
- Northwestern: See any other Big Ten school, plus the Chicago market? It has to happen...
- Iowa: I've been there when it is cold. I know that there are hockey fans. Ready. Set. Go.
- Syracuse: Carrier Dome could easily fit a hockey rink. They are a fairy large athletic department. Considering the popularity of their lacrosse program, I would think that hockey would be successful. Plus they have a minor league team in Syracuse. Obviously hockey is fairly popular.
- Kentucky: I just wanna see this on a regular basis... perhaps even on tv...
- Eastern Michigan: If Western Michigan and Northern Michigan can put together a team, why can't Eastern? It would automatically create another chapter of the Battle for Washtenaw County. Convocation Center hockey? I think so...
- Central Michigan: Sure. Why not?
- Nebraska: If Nebraska-Omaha can rock their UNO jerseys with pride in D-1, why can't Big Red have a squad?
- Columbia: Other Ivy League schools have teams. They could play at MSG. Perfect.
- Utah: If they can host the Winter Olympics, they can put together a D-1 Hockey team.
- Colorado: Denver has one... Colorado College has one... I want to see the Buffs.
These are just a few off the top of my head... any other suggestions?
-Kevin
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