So, between work and the whole summer thing, I have absolutely failed and not posted in almost two months...epic post vol. 2 is coming soon. Until then...
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
Epic Post Because It's Been Too Long
It has been a busy few weeks for the sports world. The World Cup has begun. Michigan announced its self-imposed sanctions. The NCAA has accused both UConn and Kansas of major infractions. Nebraska and Colorado left the Big 12. And of course...there was that baseball game the other night. So...I'm going to do my best to sum up everything and say a few things....
The World Cup
The World Cup
The World Cup has no begun and the world is turning it's sight to South Africa. Some of the favorites include Spain, defending World Cup Champion Italy, England, and France. The US is in the same group as England, along with Algeria and Slovenia. I think the US will make it out of it's group, but I don't see them going much farther than that. England is highly favored considering the tournament is being played in South Africa, which is going through Late-Fall/Winter currently. Cold, wet, and dark...just the way England likes it. Personally, I see Brazil and England making it to the final. It is a toss-up who will win, but I will go with England. They are due.
Michigan's Sanctions
On May 25 Athletic Director Dave Brandon, along with coach Rich Rodriguez, announced the self-imposed sanctions for their violations that mostly involved miscommunication within the athletic department. The majority of these violations involved over practicing. The athletic department announced a series of sanctions including less practice time allowed and being on probation for two years.
On May 25 Athletic Director Dave Brandon, along with coach Rich Rodriguez, announced the self-imposed sanctions for their violations that mostly involved miscommunication within the athletic department. The majority of these violations involved over practicing. The athletic department announced a series of sanctions including less practice time allowed and being on probation for two years.
Personally, I believe these self-imposed penalties are enough. The NCAA will meet Aug 13-14 to discuss whether or not these penalties are enough. Like I said, I think they are. But, if Rich Rodriguez fails to have an impressive season, I do believe this incident is enough to put the Rich-Rod experiment to an end. There have been many hints and suggestions that Coach Rodriguez needs to win nine games this year or his job is over. And, I'm ok with that. He has had his chance, he needs to produce. This is a storied program with consistent winning, and he is turning us in the wrong direction. Obviously, we would have to keep the spread/option/run and gun style we play and not go back to the pro-style of Coach Carr. That would just result in another 2-3 years of rebuilding. Hopefully nothing else comes of this, the NCAA approves our sanctions, and we move on to a successful season. UConn won't know what's coming to them Sept. 4.
Other BCS Programs in Trouble
Other BCS Programs in Trouble
UConn, USC, and Kansas have been in the news as of late for allegedly and actually breaking NCAA rules and regulations. If you ask me, it is about time teams are getting caught. I think USC not being allowed to play in bowl games for two years is fair. I think UConn and Kansas should both be handled with accordingly. I guess altogether I am sick and tired of watching schools get off on technicalities, or not enough evidence. Clearly shady stuff is going on...go find it.
Welcome Nebraska
Welcome Nebraska
Nebraska officially announced that it will be leaving the Big 12 and joining the Big 10 (I personally find it hilarious that the Big 12 now has 10 teams and the Big 10 has 12 teams). Nebraska will begin play in the 2011-2012 season. Colorado also announced that it will be leaving the Big 12 to join the Pac-10. This is just the beginning of what should be an interesting time of conference changes and realignments. I do believe that the Big 10 needs a few more teams. Obviously Texas or Notre Dame would be ideal, but I'll take what we can get.
Galarraga
Galarraga
The Detroit Tigers' Armando Galarraga had a perfect-game (no hits, no walks, no errors) going into the last out of the 9th inning. After a controversial call by umpire Jim Joyce, he lost his bid for perfection. As a fan, I was extremely disappointed, angry, and just did not understand why it had to happen to Armando. Why not Roy Halladay a few days earlier? But, as a general baseball watcher, clearly it is time for replay to enter the game. Bud Selig needs to step up and do something. Joyce, shortly after the game, saw the replay and instantly apologize. I applaud him and the way he handled the situation. I was thoroughly disappointed, but accepted the outcome. The Tigers still won. Galarraga was still accepted by many as to have thrown an amazing game. And, Jim Joyce accepted his mistake.
I deeply apologize to my readers (as few as they are) for how long it has been since my last post. This post itself has been in the works for over a week and I just did not get around to it. I will do my best to stay up to pace a little more, especially since it is summer and have time. Hopefully I'll have the opportunity to write a "goodbye" to Tom Izzo or possibly a "O.M.G. WE JUST WON" piece for the US team. Also, I'd like to congratulate Chicago sports fans on their Blackhawks' Stanley Cup Win. But, as always, I hope everyone is doing well and enjoy yourself these next few days. Its summer. Live a little.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Michigan Football and Non-Conference Play
Today the Michigan Athletic Department announced that Michigan will host San Diego St at the Big House in 2011. This rounds out the non-conference opponents for Michigan and guarentees eight home games in 2011. The Aztecs are coached by former Michigan assistant Brady Hoke and have only played against Michigan once before. The Wolverines will host Eastern Michigan, Western Michigan, and Notre Dame as well next season. This season, Michigan hosts UConn, UMass, and Bowling Green, as well as traveling to Notre Dame.
Now, everyone has heard the complaints before. Michigan never plays anyone different. Michigan never plays anyone big. Ohio State goes out and schedules a home and home versus Texas, and USC. We play two of the directional Michigan schools every year. Sometimes we change it up with a different MAC school. And almost year in and year out, there's the Golden Domers. There was a lot of speculation as to who Michigan would play in the first game after all of the renovations, and it was announced that it would be a BCS team...unfortunately that team is UConn. Sure, we aren't MSU, who now has a deal to play directional Michigan schools every year for the next 100 years (not exactly true...but might as well be). I am just sick and tired of watching Michigan take the apparent easy way out.
Many people suggest that without Michigan playing the "lower" schools, many of these schools athletic programs would be financially screwed. This may be partially true, but they can find other teams. Western Michigan played Florida State a few years ago. Believe it or not, you are allowed to leave the state. Play USF. Play Eastern Carolina. Play UTEP. Heck...play a home and home with them. I remember as recent as 15 years ago, home and homes with Colorado (apologies for the video...it still hurts me too), Syracuse, and traveling to Hawaii. We hosted Colorado, Baylor, AND Notre Dame all during the undefeated season of 1997. We had home and homes with Washington and Oregon. All of these games would be great.
Michigan needs to stop scheduling weak teams. We are 1-1 against FCS teams, including one of the most embarassing losses at Michigan Stadium, let alone in all of collegiate sport. In that same season, we lost to Toledo. Yes...Toledo. I didn't even know Toledo had anything other than the Mud Hens and Tony Pacos. If the University of Michigan Football Team wants to earn back some respect in the sports world, they need to beat some good teams. Heck, they need to play some good teams. Go play Ole Miss. Go play Texas A&M. Play somebody interesting.
In the end, I'm a fan of playing San Diego State. Like I said, it is always nice to play somebody different. I do think Michigan should go out an play some new teams, preferably from a BCS conference. No matter who they play though, they need to start winning games. I think all of us fans can agree on that.
Now, everyone has heard the complaints before. Michigan never plays anyone different. Michigan never plays anyone big. Ohio State goes out and schedules a home and home versus Texas, and USC. We play two of the directional Michigan schools every year. Sometimes we change it up with a different MAC school. And almost year in and year out, there's the Golden Domers. There was a lot of speculation as to who Michigan would play in the first game after all of the renovations, and it was announced that it would be a BCS team...unfortunately that team is UConn. Sure, we aren't MSU, who now has a deal to play directional Michigan schools every year for the next 100 years (not exactly true...but might as well be). I am just sick and tired of watching Michigan take the apparent easy way out.
Many people suggest that without Michigan playing the "lower" schools, many of these schools athletic programs would be financially screwed. This may be partially true, but they can find other teams. Western Michigan played Florida State a few years ago. Believe it or not, you are allowed to leave the state. Play USF. Play Eastern Carolina. Play UTEP. Heck...play a home and home with them. I remember as recent as 15 years ago, home and homes with Colorado (apologies for the video...it still hurts me too), Syracuse, and traveling to Hawaii. We hosted Colorado, Baylor, AND Notre Dame all during the undefeated season of 1997. We had home and homes with Washington and Oregon. All of these games would be great.
Michigan needs to stop scheduling weak teams. We are 1-1 against FCS teams, including one of the most embarassing losses at Michigan Stadium, let alone in all of collegiate sport. In that same season, we lost to Toledo. Yes...Toledo. I didn't even know Toledo had anything other than the Mud Hens and Tony Pacos. If the University of Michigan Football Team wants to earn back some respect in the sports world, they need to beat some good teams. Heck, they need to play some good teams. Go play Ole Miss. Go play Texas A&M. Play somebody interesting.
In the end, I'm a fan of playing San Diego State. Like I said, it is always nice to play somebody different. I do think Michigan should go out an play some new teams, preferably from a BCS conference. No matter who they play though, they need to start winning games. I think all of us fans can agree on that.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Its Been a While...
So, between finals, a trip to Chicago, being lazy, and work, I have failed to write an entry in a while. I have officially moved onto summer though...and I think everyone else should as well. This being the case, I have decided to come up with my Top 10 Favorite Things About Summer...
10. Playoff Hockey: Although hockey is clearly a Winter sport, the Red Wings have been in the playoffs as far back as I can remember. The playoffs are great no matter what sport they are. But, to me, there is just something special about the NHL Playoffs. Why don't you take this a look see and tell me if you agree?
9. Summer Storms: Who doesn't love a good summer storm? The rain...lightning...thunder...phenomenal stuff. As long as you aren't driving through it, a good summer storm is an amazing experience.
8. $1 Pops at McDonalds: Although most gas stations and a lot of places have cheap drinks during the summer, there is nothing quite like a pop from the fountain, especially from McDonald's if you ask me.
7. Summer Concerts: Although I didn't go to my first outdoor concert until just two summers ago, they are by far one of my new favorite events. Nothing quite like jamming to good tunes and watching the sun set.
6. Hanging Out on the Beach: This is pretty self-explanatory. Swimsuits, jetskis, sun, water. Then, there's that whole sand thing. Beaches are a blast. I'm especially a big fan of the lake setting, preferably "Up North". But, you also can't hate on the oceans. Overall, beach play is a blast.
5. Playing Catch: Of course the obvious "catch" being played would be baseball. But, throwing the frisbee around, or even a little pigskin tossing can be a blast. If you choose the pigskin, I'm a big fan of diving into the pool and trying to catch it. Always a fun activity...
4. Going Running/Walking Outside: Coming from someone like me, President and CEO of Out of Shape Inc., this probably sounds stupid. But honestly, when you wake up, and its 72, sunny, and not a cloud in the sky. Why wouldn't you get outside and walk around if you can?
3. Fireworks: For me, it doesn't have to be the 4th of July to enjoy fireworks. But, when you can sit on grass, with family, friends, or both, and just watch the colors explode in the sky. It is amazing.
2. BBQ Picnics: Anyone who doesn't enjoy a good barebeque picnic is lying to themselves. Shishkabobs, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, bratwursts...all amazing. Throw in some watermelon and maybe some coleslaw and we're talking nap time as soon as you're done. Embrace the '-itis'.
1. Baseball: As Roger Hornsby once said, "People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring." I love baseball. I like watching it at all levels. I like playing it. I like talking about it. Obviously baseball starts in the Spring. But, in my mind, there is nothing better than going to a ballgame on a warm summer evening.
10. Playoff Hockey: Although hockey is clearly a Winter sport, the Red Wings have been in the playoffs as far back as I can remember. The playoffs are great no matter what sport they are. But, to me, there is just something special about the NHL Playoffs. Why don't you take this a look see and tell me if you agree?
9. Summer Storms: Who doesn't love a good summer storm? The rain...lightning...thunder...phenomenal stuff. As long as you aren't driving through it, a good summer storm is an amazing experience.
8. $1 Pops at McDonalds: Although most gas stations and a lot of places have cheap drinks during the summer, there is nothing quite like a pop from the fountain, especially from McDonald's if you ask me.
7. Summer Concerts: Although I didn't go to my first outdoor concert until just two summers ago, they are by far one of my new favorite events. Nothing quite like jamming to good tunes and watching the sun set.
6. Hanging Out on the Beach: This is pretty self-explanatory. Swimsuits, jetskis, sun, water. Then, there's that whole sand thing. Beaches are a blast. I'm especially a big fan of the lake setting, preferably "Up North". But, you also can't hate on the oceans. Overall, beach play is a blast.
5. Playing Catch: Of course the obvious "catch" being played would be baseball. But, throwing the frisbee around, or even a little pigskin tossing can be a blast. If you choose the pigskin, I'm a big fan of diving into the pool and trying to catch it. Always a fun activity...
4. Going Running/Walking Outside: Coming from someone like me, President and CEO of Out of Shape Inc., this probably sounds stupid. But honestly, when you wake up, and its 72, sunny, and not a cloud in the sky. Why wouldn't you get outside and walk around if you can?
3. Fireworks: For me, it doesn't have to be the 4th of July to enjoy fireworks. But, when you can sit on grass, with family, friends, or both, and just watch the colors explode in the sky. It is amazing.
2. BBQ Picnics: Anyone who doesn't enjoy a good barebeque picnic is lying to themselves. Shishkabobs, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, bratwursts...all amazing. Throw in some watermelon and maybe some coleslaw and we're talking nap time as soon as you're done. Embrace the '-itis'.
1. Baseball: As Roger Hornsby once said, "People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring." I love baseball. I like watching it at all levels. I like playing it. I like talking about it. Obviously baseball starts in the Spring. But, in my mind, there is nothing better than going to a ballgame on a warm summer evening.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Madonna vs Gaga: Which is Worse?
After watching the newest episode of Fox's hit show Glee today, which featured Madonna's hits throughout it, I decided to peer around YouTube. I watched a few Madonna music videos, and came across one of the most controversial music videos that I could ever think of...as can be seen here.
This is Madonna's "Like a Prayer." Great song...very uplifting. But, this music video is extremely controversial. In the music video, Madonna witnesses a murder, kisses a black saint (St. Martin de Porres), displays the stigmata after cutting her palms on a blade, and dances in a field of burning crosses. Obviously this music video created a buzz and resulted in Pepsi dropping an ad campaign featuring Madonna and their sponsorship of her tour. (Pepsi had run commercials featuring the song and had cans with a picture of Madonna from the music video on the cans) Obviously at the time that this was released, 1989, this music video was one of the most controversial music videos ever.
After watching this though, all I could think of was some of the ridiculous music videos that have come out lately, including this one...
I guess what is going through my head is more like this: Obviously Madonna set the stage for many female acts. But, in its own time, which is worse? Some of the music videos today? Or Madonna's music videos back then?
In my opinion, I think Madonna's were worse, for her time. Many music videos today are darn near obscene. But, if you want to find a music video today, you have to really search for it. Music videos, although on cable, were more likely to be seen. Obviously you hear these songs today. But, honestly, had you heard about Lady Gaga's Telephone music video prior to me pointing this out? Or having someone tell you that you needed to check it out?
Just thought I'd share these thoughts. The Tigers have been disappointing on their trip out west so far. Michigan Softball is not real (I plan on writing about them soon). The Wings are tied 2-2 going into tomorrow night in Glendale. The NFL Draft starts tomorrow night (SUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUH). And I will be a Senior as of Monday night. Weird huh? Hope everyone is enjoying the weather and be safe if you're celebrating the end of the semester.
-KK
This is Madonna's "Like a Prayer." Great song...very uplifting. But, this music video is extremely controversial. In the music video, Madonna witnesses a murder, kisses a black saint (St. Martin de Porres), displays the stigmata after cutting her palms on a blade, and dances in a field of burning crosses. Obviously this music video created a buzz and resulted in Pepsi dropping an ad campaign featuring Madonna and their sponsorship of her tour. (Pepsi had run commercials featuring the song and had cans with a picture of Madonna from the music video on the cans) Obviously at the time that this was released, 1989, this music video was one of the most controversial music videos ever.
After watching this though, all I could think of was some of the ridiculous music videos that have come out lately, including this one...
I guess what is going through my head is more like this: Obviously Madonna set the stage for many female acts. But, in its own time, which is worse? Some of the music videos today? Or Madonna's music videos back then?
In my opinion, I think Madonna's were worse, for her time. Many music videos today are darn near obscene. But, if you want to find a music video today, you have to really search for it. Music videos, although on cable, were more likely to be seen. Obviously you hear these songs today. But, honestly, had you heard about Lady Gaga's Telephone music video prior to me pointing this out? Or having someone tell you that you needed to check it out?
Just thought I'd share these thoughts. The Tigers have been disappointing on their trip out west so far. Michigan Softball is not real (I plan on writing about them soon). The Wings are tied 2-2 going into tomorrow night in Glendale. The NFL Draft starts tomorrow night (SUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUH). And I will be a Senior as of Monday night. Weird huh? Hope everyone is enjoying the weather and be safe if you're celebrating the end of the semester.
-KK
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Playoff Time in Hockey Town
There are a few certainties here in southeast Michigan. First, it will always snow on Opening Day for the Tigers. Secondly, the Lions will not make the playoffs. And third, the Red Wings will. Thankfully, the third on that list begins tonight in Glendale, AZ as the Wings take on the Phoenix Coyotes in the 1st Round of the 2010 NHL Playoffs. The Wings are on a bit of a tear as of late and are heading into the playoffs. Only a few short weeks ago they were worried about grabbing the 8th spot, now they are a 5th seed in the West. Detroit has been backstopped by rookie Jimmy Howard (a likely Rookie of the Year winner and possible Vezina Trophy Winner). Howard is in the Top 10 in all of the important categories and in the Top 5 for many. They are also lead by veteran forwards Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk and veteran defensemen Nick Lidstrom and Brain Rafalski. The Wings and Coyotes begin their best-of-seven series tonight in Arizona at 10pm. I highly suggest tuning in and cheering on one of the few positive constants around here.
PS: I'm making a bold statement right now. Jimmy Howard will win the Conn Smythe.
PS: I'm making a bold statement right now. Jimmy Howard will win the Conn Smythe.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Opening Day
Opening Day brings every baseball fan new hope. It lets a Royals Fan think they'll win the Division. It lets a Tigers fan hope that the ghosts of Robert Fick and Bobby Higginson will go away. Heck, it even lets Cubs Fans think they'll actually do something with their season. Opening Day also brings some fun statistics. For example, in 2005, Dmitri Young was on pace to hit 486 home runs that season after Opening Day. Anyway, I am quite excited to get a fresh start on the season and get the bad taste of that 163rd game out of my mouth. Today my Tigers go up against the Kansas City Royals in KC. Today's match-up will feature two of the best pitchers in the game, Justin Verlander and Zach Grienke. After what I would deam as an absolutely horrible year of Michigan sports, Detroit Tigers Baseball is the sign of a new year. It is a sign of new beginnings. There is still hope, happiness, something to look forward to (not that I'm not hype that the Red Wings clinched a playoff spot yesterday). There is nothing like a summer when the Tigers are playing good ball. Although we didn't make the playoffs last year, I still had a blast watching them each and every game. The City of Detroit needs the Tigers...and now they have them. Ladies and Gentlemen, the boys are back in town.
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