Sleepless In Seattle ……… Who Knew ……..

After a long and distinguished career in the NFL. Mike Holmgren retired from coaching and handed over the reins to his understudy, Jim Mora Jr , as coach of the Seattle Seahawks .

Mike Holmgren (right) on the sidelines with his then assistant coach Jim Mora Jr . Mora now takes the helm as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. picture appears courtesy of Icon SMI / Matt A. Brown .........................

Holmgren’s predigree alone assures him that he’ll be a first ballot Hall of Famer when he’s due for enshrinement in Canton, Ohio. One only has to look down the list coaches that’ve learned under the auspices of the man. And who can doubt his prowess as a coach ? The success he had with the Green Bay Packers alone, assures us of this. And the fact that he brought about as to the change of environment with regard to the Seahawks and the fan-dom there. It brings about some semblance for the franchise that for much of its existence has been mired in mediocrity. That being said, even with the ownership of Microsoft co-founder and multi-billionaire magnate Paul Allen , in tow. The one thing that’s still missing from the team’s trophy cabinet, is that of the Vince Lombardi trophy to signify the franchise’s wining of the Superbowl.

Seattle Seahawks' owner Paul Allen (left) seen here alongside team CEO Tod Leiweke on the sidlines at the end of a game against the Baltimore Ravens in December 2007 . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ John Froschauer ....................

The one thing that can be said of the Seattle Seahawks’ franchise. It is that they can be either be consistently consistent as to their regular season travails. Or they can at times perform very much like the most inept franchise in all of the NFL. Now , not wanting to question Holmgren’s decision as to his successor. I was as surprised as any , when it was announced that Jim Mora Jr would be taking over the reins of this team. Albeit , what little success he’d achieved as a coach was with the now discredited and disgraced Michael Vick . When both were taking the Atlanta Falcons to their most recent of successes. But as we all know, when it all began to spiral out of control. Mora was nowhere to be seen , as he and the then disgraced star were basically like rats on a sinking ship. Mora was fired and as we all have seen , Vick chose to eschew his talents elsewhere.

For the Seahawks and the wilderness of the NFC West , which they play in. It has to be said that the division is one of the less endearing divisions in all of the NFL. From the hapless San Francisco 49ers , to the even more absurd St Louis Rams and a now resurgent Arizona Cardinals . It has to be said that whatever interest is taken in the division is merely from the standpoint of their fans and their own perceived interest. And that of the interest shown by the broadcast networks.

Coming off an immensely disappointing 4-12 season in 2008. The Seahawks hope to rebound and acquit themselves well in the ‘09 season. And if nothing else , the return of Matt Haselbeck along with the acquisition of T. J. Houshmandzadeh and recently acquired free agent Edgerrin James ought to stand them in good stead. That being said , the team’s fortunes just won’t lie in how they acquit themselves on the field of play. But primarily with the astuteness shown by Mora as a coach. I for one sincerely doubt that he is indeed the right man for the job. But the Seahawks have made their decision. And they will have to live and die by it .

Seahawks' quarterback Matt Hasselbeck makes a pass to tight end John Carlson during the second half of the team's preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Missouri, . The Seahawks would defeat the Chiefs 14-10 in the game. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Reed Hoffmann .....................

On first appearance when one looks at this Seattle Seahawks’ roster. You can clearly see that this team ought to have fared a great better than it has done over the years. They’ve a bevy of players that’d be the desire of a number of teams around the league. But seemingly they’ve never been able to put together a consistent string of results and then play themselves into contention when it really mattered the most.Either that came from Holmgren’s own failings as a coach. Or one could attribute it to the fact that was no real leadership on the field of play. Even if a team is beset by injuries , one would still expect for them to play with a great deal of zeal. Being straightforward in that regard it may well have been a mixture of both. It may well be a poor excuse as to what ails the franchise. But make of it , what you will.

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and AP :

Seattle releases 4 players

RENTON,Wash-(AP) The Seattle Seahawks have let go of four players ahead of the deadline to cut the roster to 75.

Seattle waived defensive tackle Kevin Brown, fullback Dan Curran, linebacker Shane Simmons and tight end John Tereshinski. The Seahawks made the moves Sunday , one day after their 14-10 preseason win at Kansas City.

Teams have until Tuesday to trim rosters to 75 players. The final cutdown to 53 players has to be done by Sept. 5.

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If there’s one thing that we’ve come to learn about Holmgren coached teams. It was that they were always proficient on both sides of the ball. That being said their failings of late were in particular on the offensive side of the ball. The loss of Pro Bowler , Matt Hasselbeck for much of last season , basically left the cupboard bare in terms of a reliable backup. And given the fact that watching Seneca Wallace on the field of play, was in essence very much akin to watching a doe being hunted by a pride of lions. He was very much caught in the proverbial set of headlights as usual . And he acquitted himself , thus.

If the Seahawks are to get back, whereby they’re to be a dominant force to be reckoned with in the NFC West as wll as the NFC as a whole. Then this season, they’ll have to step up their game and prove to the rest of the league as well as their fans . That they’re rightfully back in their customary place, as one of the top teams in the NFC and a force to be reckoned with. If anything , they’ve been very much the title of this piece . ….. Sleepless In Seattle ….Who Knew ?

Can Someone Tell Me Why ?

Can Someone Tell Me Why ?

The biggest mistake an athlete can make is to carry on long after the height of their athletic abilities . Far too often we’ve seen athletes such as Muhammad Ali, Brett Favre and now mixed martial artist Randy Couture . Seemingly,carry on as if , they’re still at the height of their athletic prowess.

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (left) and Randy Couture (right) mix it up at UFC 102 . Nogueira would go on to defeat Couture with a unanimous decision in the title elimination bout. The winner has a lucrative title matchup against the UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar. A date has yet to be scheduled for the highly anticipated bout. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mark Jasper ......................

We’ve seen Favre come back for the umpteenth time , well at least it appears that way ! Ali, as we know came back for that one or shall we say that four or five fights too many ? Unfortunately for the man, himself , he’s no longer the athlete that so many of came to love and grew up watching.. He’s seemingly a broken and irreparably damaged individual, not only physically but also mentally. Now a sufferer of Parkinson’s disease , Ali lives within a shell , and a silent world where he can neither speak or communicate with anyone with any semblance of normalcy.

Nogueira lands a left hook to the side of the head of Couture in their title elimination bout at UFC 102 held at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland Oregon this past Saturday night. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jon Kopaloff .....................

Favre , for all of his misgivings and the belief that he can come back and lead the Minnesota Vikings to a title. It has to be said that his failings as a player were all too prominent last season in his tenure, with the New York Jets . Not only as a player but as a leader by example. If there’s one thing that has been abundantly clear as to Favre’s demeanor as a player in his latter years in the NFL, as a teammate. It has been the fact that it has to be about him and being center stage, as the turmoil unfolds. If you doubt my view then here’s an actual quote from the player, himself. ” I don’t have to be a teammate or teach anyone anything !” If you can guess that Favre was actually stating this about his then teammate , Aaron Rodgers.As the then rookie, had been drafted by the Green Bay Packers. Then you can understand the reservations that may now well be , being felt within the Vikings’ camp at present. On the outside everything may well seem rosy. But then again what’s a schism amongst friends ?

On Saturday night at UFC 102 , Randy Couture , the grand-daddy of the UFC veterans now still competing in the octagon. ‘The Natural’ ,as he’s come to be known showed for all sense and purpose that his best years are indeed most definitely behind him. Much like Muhammad Ali , who’d returned to the ring to have those five fights too many. Therein ,he became the punch bag for fighters who in his prime he’d have destroyed within the blink of an eye. But that was then and this about the here and now. It’s not about what you did then but what have you done lately ? And for Couture his last few fights have been absolutely nothing to write home about. He’s suffered the ignominy of having been beaten by fighters who in many respects aren’t as experienced . But their main advantage was the presence of youth and in many respects Couture as a practitioner is now said to be on the downside of an illustrious career. Where in reality, it’s no longer a young man’s game.

His opponent on Saturday night, in the none title eliminator was Brazilian ju-jitsu expert Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira . Thirteen years younger than the veteran Couture , 46. Nogueira totally dominated the bout from start to finish. It was an emphatic and decisive win for the Brazilian. And it was understandable that all three judges decided in Nogueira’s favor. Not at anytime, in this headlined event, was Couture able to anything worthwhile inside the octagon. And if anything , it was quite embarrassing having to watch Couture try and even take down his much younger opponent. As I’d alluded to earlier, this is in every way a young man’s sport. And for all of the expertize that Couture is said to have. It was a totally lacking and embarrassing effort on his part. It’s hard to see where he can now go from here.

UFC , for all of the hype behind it . It’s now at a crossroads in terms of real visibility and credibility. Its heavyweight champion, in Brock Lesnar , while being a dominant physical specimen. He is by no means the best practitioner within the heavyweight division, given the various faceted organizations within MMA genre. But until we actually see Lesnar face off against Russia’s Fedor Emelianenko . We’ll continue to see a great deal of hype placed around Lesnar , as to the alleged belief that he’s the best of the best within the heavyweight division.As to an anticipated defense of his title against Noguiera. UFC Chairman , Dana White , has started the ball rolling in that endeavor. However ,if anything , it is hoped that particular event will be a great deal more entertaining than the main bout that took place at UFC 102 between Nogueira and Couture.

Randy Couture has parlayed his success into several entrepreneurial endeavors. From a clothing line , bearing his name. To several small roles on tv and on film within Hollywood. And with a burgeoning gym establishment where he’s taking on young aspiring talent within his stable and training them in the art of the genre of MMA. It is hoped that he’ll finally walk away from the sport with his head held high ,that he once graced so successfully. If nothing else , that’s how a lot of his more erstwhile fans would like to see him bow out. Rather than under the impediment of having to be either dragged out kicking and screaming.
Or quite possibly not under his own steam but on a gurney, physically unable to perform and actually not knowing where or who he actually is.

Ali (left) seen here facing onetime sparring partner Larry Holmes in their much lauded bout. It would prove to be the penultimate fight of Ali's career. He lost in a unanimous decision to Larry Holmes. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ archives/ Lou Parrello .....................

Having seen that sort of situation befall Muhammad Ali. I’d like to think Couture and others of that ilk would know when it is indeed “….. time to call it quits. “ But then again, there are those among us who’d rather see our heroes go out battling with that do or die attitude. That tends to work for those who actually have some semblance of knowing what it is that they’re doing. Not so , I think now, in the case of Couture of Favre and for that matter, Ali. Great as they once were, there came a time when in reality they had in-fact made that one unnecessary journey too many. And in the end it came back to haunt them in one way or another. Certainly that was the case for Couture on Saturday night. And it was most definitely the case for Ali , in the several bouts that he took after having regained the heavyweight title for then an unprecedented third time.

Brett Favre (background) alongside teammate Tavaris Jackson (foreground) seen here at the Vikings' training camp in Eden Priarie , Minnesota. Favre hopes to lead the Vikings to the Superbowl in the 2009-10 season. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Star Ledger/ Elizabeth Flores ...................

In the case of Favre , he’ll be contending with his own ego and pride. And if anything we’ll see how he’ll fare this upcoming season with the Minnesota Vikings. One thing for is for sure however. There can be no excuses made on his behalf should everything implode. Declining skills and the mere fact that as a team the Vikings are merely considering the hear and now as to their immediacy of their ambitions. It can only lead but to one scenario , should things not meet the fans’ expectations.

So can someone tell me why it is that we have to witness this all , as to the ego driven athlete who doesn’t know when to call time ?

C-R-E-A-M ….. Cash Rules Everything Around Me ……………..

I’ll say this for the Denver Broncos , their off-season and preseason incidents. It’s been thoroughly entertaining and given the fans there in Denver far more excitement. Than they’ve witnessed on the field , as to their competitiveness over the last two years. The NFL and its franchises has a venerable way of keeping its fans interested in the sport year round. Be it the fact , that it now has its own network (NFL Network), which gives it even greater visibility. And also from the mere fact that its very own coverage is far superior to that of the broadcast networks and cable outlets that are pitted against it , in terms of the coverage.

Broncos' wide receiver Brandon Marshall seen here at the team's training facility in Englewood , Co,. The player was today suspended by the team for an as yet to be determined period. This may well lead to player being traded as has been his want for much of the off and preseason. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ David Zabulowiski .............

That being said the episodes that’ve unfolded as to the off-season and preseason concerning the Broncos have made for great soap opera. The departure of Jay Cutler to the Chicago Bears and the fact that Broncos’ coach, Josh McDaniels made his presence felt, with his actions. The fact that those actions were very much in the vein of a tornado sweeping through a rural community laying waste everywhere. The destruction and its aftermath are now easily explainable. He got his wish , as he now has all that he wants. Never-mind the fact that by appearance alone, the team may well now be worse off than it was before the departure of Cutler. I can hardly envision that the addition of Kyle Orton and with Chris Simms as his backup , that this Broncos’ team will send quakes and shivers down the spines of the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers or indeed the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West . But such are the vagaries of the NFL , that when there’s no drama or intrigue within its midst. The fans’ attention is drawn elsewhere as they may well feel that it is becoming somewhat tedious and monotonous.

Broncos' starting quarterback Kyle Orton seen here playing against the Seattle Seahawks in a preseason game played at Qwest Field Seattle , Washington. The Seahawks would go on to defeat the Broncos 27-13 . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Otto Greule Jr. ...............................

McDaniels is now faced with the task of trying to bring back the glory days of John Elway and Terrell Davis . When the franchise reigned supreme over the NFL with its back to back Superbowl triumphs. The fans long for it and yearn for it with a zeal that borders on being ravenous. They’ve been starved of that sort of success for over a decade. Whether or not McDaniels is the man to lead the franchise out of their rut remains to be seen. The fact of the matter is , he’s off to a very tenuous start. And to top it all , he’s had the unique distinction of running a Pro bowl class quarterback out of town. Albeit, that the lines of communication between the two bordered on being like watching two young kindergarten boys having a fight in a sandbox. Neither was able to land a meaningful punch on one another. However, it led to the team owner, Pat Bowlem , having to intervene and making somewhat of a rash decision.

Chris Simms backup quarterback of the Broncos hands the ball off to running back Darrius Walker in the game against the Seahawks . picture appears courtesty of ap/photo/ Elaine Thompson ..........................

And if you thought the craziness had been abated. Then look no further than what’s said to be happening within the Broncos’ preseason . Wide receiver , Brandon Marshall , now appears to be in McDaniels’ doghouse . The player’s own off-season turmoil we thought was over. Considering that he’s been in trouble with law enforcement on numerous occasions as to his behavior. Several assault complaints have been filed against the player over the last 18 months . And seemingly, the hierarchy of the NFL was nowhere to be seen . But that asides , it has been the player’s constant whining as to the fact that he feels disrespected and the franchise’s failure to acquiesce to his demands for a trade. It makes the situation within the organization unpalatable for its fans. But then again what’s new ? It’s not as if this wasn’t the norm for any player within the NFL who feels that they’re due in one form or another when it comes to their own perceived self importance . There’s no I in team but when it comes to playing as part of a team. Then ” it’s all about me ” as the saying goes. And so , we’re led to believe that this is merely about Marshall wanting some respect as he sees it. Pardon me , for not understanding his position. But what have you done for the Broncos lately ?

Jim Mora Jr (left) of the Seattle Seahawks greets his opposite number Josh McDaniels of the Denver Broncos after the game. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13 in the game played at Qwest Field in Seattle, Wa,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Elaine Thompson ..........................

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and AP:

Denver Broncos suspend receiver Brandon Marshall

Englewood , Colo, (AP) Pro bowl receiver Brandon Marshall openly unhappy with the Denver Broncos , was suspended by the team Friday for unspecified “detrimental” conduct. The club did not say in its 15 word statement how long the suspension would last.

Marshall has asked for a new contract or trade and has acknowledged that he hasn’t learned new coach Josh McDaniels’ playbook. He was held out of last Sunday’s preseason game at Seattle.

During Wednesday’s warmups, Marshall walked while the rest of the team ran. He punted the ball away instead of handing it to a ball boy and swatted a pass thrown to him. His actions were caught on video and broadcast by KMGH-TV.

Marshall told ESPN on Thursday that he wasn’t trying to force a trade through insubordination but frustration got the best of him.

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It’s strange to hear the opinions of former NFL players who state what a joy is to play the game and be around teammates that are equally like minded when it comes to achieving the same goal. Funnily enough, you’ll never hear one actually come out and assert that there’s never any turmoil within the locker room. They’d have you believe that within their world there’s always a camaraderie there. I’ve always maintained that if you want to see true camarderie then you won’t see it in its purest form on the field of competitive play. The only time one will ever see it is through the eyes of a combat soldier. There and only then would you actually see and know what true camaraderie is all about ! And having served in the military and been in a combat arena . I know of what I speak. When your life is on the line you can only count on that of those who are at your very side at the moment when everything is heightened and danger is within your midst. Not so , for a bunch of prissy , hissy-fit throwing bunch of overpaid primadonna athletes !

One can opine as to what may well lie ahead for the Broncos this season. But with there now being far more action happening off the field than anything productive having been yet produced on it. You can only but wonder whether or not McDaniels can live up to the hype of offensive genius and enfant-terrible , who cut his teeth with the New England Patriots , under the auspices of their coach, Bill Belichick.

It’s been one thing to reek havoc just as you start your first managerial tenure. But it’s certainly another when you’ve now got to quieten down the quells of mutiny and in-order within an organization that in part you created to begin with. That being said, the apparent relationship between McDaniels and Marhsall though not yet dead. It may well have been irretrievably broken at this juncture. With the player now having been suspended for a yet to be determined period. It’ll be interesting to see the lines of communication being made and how it is all being demarcated.

McDaniels can ill afford to go through another tumultuous situation at this juncture. And at the same time, Brandon Marshall for all of his apparent abilities. He’s now making himself something of a pariah within the NFL. His perceived talent is one thing , but it has been his off the field baggage and tendency to be just about himself that may well scare some teams off when it comes to acquiring the player. Marshall would have you believe that from the outset it has never been about the money. But in actuality he’s done very little to persuade us otherwise.

It’s always been about the C-R-E-A-M …… ” Cash Rules Everything Around Me .” As if anything else ever really mattered !

Sometimes It’s Best To Be Seen And Not Heard ……

As if the sports’ fans out there haven’t had their belly full as to the insipid and idiotic behavior of athletes and now it appears even team coaches. We’ve now got to even put up with their asinine statements that they’re either being railroaded or the mere fact that , everything that has either been said or printed has been in-fact a complete lie. My message to these individuals is , if you’ve got nothing at all pertinent or sensible to say ” …. then just shut the hell up ” ! It doesn’t serve you well to ignore the advice of either your lawyer or indeed your alleged PR guru.

Case in point , it’s the latest rant from Louisville Cardinals’ basketball coach , Rick Pitino . If it’s not been enough already, that he has indeed lied to his family as to his sexual misgivings. He’s even failed to be less than forthright with the faculty at the University of Louisville to begin with. That being said , there isn’t much that University President Dr James R. Ramsey, or their Athletic Director Tom Jurrich can do. They’ve backed Pitino’s play, even though it has brought a great deal of embarrassment to the esteemed Roman Catholic university.

And though we can opine that on the face of it Pitino’s actions aren’t at all serious. Would we be at all saying that if his actions had involved female student or even a married female faculty member ? Pitino states that he and his alleged victim, Karen Cunagin-Sypher , did indeed have consensual sex. She states the opposite , in stating that she’d been sexually assaulted on two separate occasions in mid 2003 . Something that Pitino, himself, wholeheartedly denies.
Cunagin-Sypher is now set to go on trial for extortion and the case itself could very well be one ,where a great deal of salaciousness could come to the fore. As to the behavior of Pitino and certain members of his coaching staff. Especially if the allegations being made by Cunagin-Sypher has any veracity to it , at all.

In order to get a better perspective on this incident. Then please click on the text link provided.

You Don’t Sh_t Where You Eat !

Hopefully from reading the piece fully you’ll glean enough insight to make your own assessment as to the situation ?

I know that there’s the case to be made as to being ” presumed innocent until found guilty.” But the situation surrounding the coach and his conduct does leave a great deal to be desired. As to his continued berating of the press and the fact that the allegations being made are all lies. Had he not conducted himself in such an inappropriate manner. Then perhaps he wouldn’t have to be in the public eye now trying to defend himself as to his behavior.

It’s all lies , it’s all lies . Thanks Rick but you’re also to blame for this incident as well ! So stop with the whining !

Unfortunately for the university the longer this story remains in the public eye and with the ensuing upcoming case. The smear upon it and that of the coach will just continue to linger . And even if Cunagin-Sypher is found innocent or guilty. The indelible mark left on Pitino’s reputation will be one of a human being who cannot be trusted to tell the truth. Much less conduct himself with the comportment expected of a person, in a position of trust.

ESPN The MAG…Has Lost All Credibility (Part 1)

Today, I came home to ESPN The MAG and I saw the most disturbing story in Magazine, Blog, and Newspaper history.

It was an NFL story… a NFL Prediction story. Boy,was it a piece of work. I’ll start off with the playoff outlook. (For the record, this was made after the Eagles and Vikings got new QB’s.)

AFC:

• North: Steelers
• South: Colts
• East: Pats
• West: Chargers
• Wild Card: Jags
• Wild Card: Ravens

NFC

• North: Bears
• South: Panthers
• East: Giants
• West: Seahawks
• Wild Card: Eagles
• Wild Card: Vikings

 Superbowl:

• Game: Chargers vs Giants
• Winner: Chargers

Chargers…a little unexpected to say the least. The outlook lacks teams like the Titans and the ‘Cards. They also have the Seahawks as a Divisional Champ. I don’t see where they are getting the numbers to back those decisions. Still, this is no where near the crazyest calls we’ll see.

NFC East

• Giants: 11-5
• Eagles: 9-7
• Cowboys: 8-8
• Redskins: 8-8

They have the division as Second toughest. This is the first time in years that I’ve seen Cowboys not be overrated – dare I say it…they may be UNDERRATED. They have the “NFL’s best roster” at 9-7…Giants, however short the may be at Wideout, are picked as Champs with a 11-5 record.

NFC North

• Bears: 11-5
• Vikings: 9-7
• Packers: 7-9
• Lions: 5-11

Wow, 5 wins for the team with new “Fiercer” logo. I have to say this is one of the lowest projects I’ve seen for the Packers. Obiously, The MAGdoesn’t see Favre making any difference at all. The division’s ranking is 4th best……WOW…..

NFC  South

•  Panthers: 9-7
• Saints: 8-8
• Falcons: 7-9
• Bucs: 7-9

Hey, ESPN, you do realize the Falcons have Matt Ryan(Offensive Rookie of the Year), RoddyWhite(Pro-Bowler and Franchise record holder), Michael Turner(2008’s 2ndleading rusher behind AP), and Tony Gonzalez(The best Tight End ever and an easy HOFer). Here’s another INSANE pick…the NFC South is picked LAST by The Magin divisional strength -Absoulutly outragous.

NFC West

• Seahawks: 10-6
• Rams: 8-8
• ‘Cards: 6-10
• 49ers: 6-10

Rams over ‘Cards……WHY? The Seahawks….last year I would completly agree with this but this ‘09 and I’m not buyin’ it. But still….Rams over Cardinals…….

Be sure to catch Part 2!

Dear Ol’ Blighty I Can Still Hear You Callin’ And I Yearn For My Football And Then Some !

I’m not afraid to say it, but as an expat Brit now living in the United States . I still long for a game of football , that’s soccer for the uninitiated amongst you. As you, Yanks, like to call it. Well I know you’ve all suddenly started to either praise or vacillate over the success of the US men’s soccer team. But until they’ve really proven themselves at the international level. Then whatever interest that’s said to be shown as to the MLS will be only marginal at best.

Michael Owens shows his delight after scoring his first goal for United in the team's 5-0 triumph over Wigan Athletic. The striker was bought by the team from Newcastle United to provide the goal scoring offense alongside teammate Wayne Rooney. picture appears courtesy of premierleague.com copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ..................

We’ve seen what the David Beckham foray into the soccer market here has done. It’s been about as welcoming as being told by the wife that she’d like for you to accompany her shopping on a Sunday afternoon to buy a present for your mother-in-law . The initial interest bordered on being theatrical as to its very presence. But given the lack of success by the L A Galaxy and the heightened expectations that’ve failed to surface. It’s all died down, the game for all sense has settled down and found its only little niche amongst a loyal band of followers.

Wayne Rooney makes it on point. The player scored his 100th goal for the team infront of a raucous crowd on Utd's way to an emphatic 5-0 defeat of Wigan Athletic. picture appears courtesy of reuters.uk/photo/ Phillip Allison .........................

In stark contrast south of the border and across the Atlantic Ocean. The support for the game, borders on being almost a religious bent, as to the loyalty shown by the fans. And nowhere is this more evident than within the English Premier League (EPL). In terms of the brand and the notoriety of the teams involved. It may well be the most successful and competitive soccer league in the world. And with ESPN now carrying their games. It has to be said that the game will now reach a much larger audience than already anticipated. Not that the league didn’t reach a large enough audience internationally to begin with. Games are televised on each of the continents and many teams have a large cadre of international supporters.

Dimitar Berbatov scores United's second goal of the game. picture appears courtesy of reuters.uk/photo/Phillip Allison .......................

And perhaps the most famous team of them all, in Manchester United , can basically underscore the wealth and presence known. United or ‘The Red Devils’ as they’ve come to be known , are essentially the New York Yankees of the Premier League. Albeit that the ownership, the Glazer family , has laden the team with a great deal of debt. At last count that figure was said to upwards of $1.15 billion .

Aaron Hughes (left) of Fulham and Ashley Cole(right) of Chelsea battle for the ball as Bobby Zamora of Fulham and Cole's teammate John Terry looks on. Chelsea would triumph over their south London neighbors 2-0 in the Premiership League match. picture appears courtesy of reuters.uk/photo/ Bill Watson ...................

The team continues to have unprecedented success with their chief architect of it all , being none other than their manager , Sir Alex Ferguson. He has now become the most successful manager in the Premiership and he’s sought after around the world as a guest speaker in terms of undoubted coaching talent and soccer knowledge. The Red Devils’ vociferous and loyal fans support them to the nth degree . So much so , that when they travel , be it domestically or abroad. They travel in throngs ,by the thousands.

To Know Me Is To Love Me What The Hell Is Wrong With The NHL ?

To watch the NHL operate is to inadvertently watch a dying industry unravel in-front of your very eyes. Whatever the hierarchy sets out to do. Only they can screw things up to the very mindset that even their most earnest fans are no longer seemingly interested as to what’s going on. Very much like the US automotive industry is completely devoid of innovation and creativity. The very same can be said when it comes to the National Hockey League. And for God’s sake please don’t try to suggest that the Ford Motor Company is the epitome of good financial health ! They’re but a hair’s breath away from falling into the same abyss as GM and Chrysler LLC were in. If you consider mortgaging your future to the hilt , wherein you’re carrying in excess of $25 billion worth of debt . Then clearly there’s got to be something missing in your rationale. Never-mind the fact that sooner or later , they too, will be coming to the trough for a government handout.

A vocal Wayne Gretzky implores his team to make a play. The Phoenix Coyotes at the time were playing the Carolina Hurricanes. Gretzky as the team's coach and senior managing partner of the Coyotes have fallen hard times financially and are in bankruptcy proceedings. pictures appears courtesy of getty images north america/ Streeter Leckar ....................

How can one explain the extraordinary mess that’s now taking place with regard to the Phoenix Coyotes ? Never-mind the fact that another of the sports franchises is in the midst of an unseemly mess concerning two of its principal partners. Unless I’m mistaken the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Len Barrie and principal partner, Oren Koules , are about as close to reaching a compromise . As the Palestinians and Israeli’s are close to eking out a peace accord. The animosity between the two it has been stated , has reached its zenith. The two barely talk to one another and meetings between the two when it comes to dealing with the business side the franchise, has been less than cordial , to say the very least.

Oren Koules (left ) and Len Barrie (right) part of the current ownership group of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The relationship between the two has been very icy as of late and communication between them has been almost none existent. The two are fighting over the control of the franchise. And NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has mandated that two reach some sort of accord as to the outright ownership of the franchise. Either with each buying the other out or the franchise being put up for sale to an independent third party. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris O'Meara .............................

Courtesy of Canwest New Service in conjunction with Canada.com

Barry still wants Lightning

Len Barrie dismissed a weekend media report that he is about to skate away from his co-ownership of the National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning.

“We’re working on this and it will be decided by Friday” said Barrie.

The NHL has presented Barrie and dueling co-owner Oren Koules a chance to buy each other out.

Barrie’s deadline to pull together a deal is the end of September, after which Koules can make a pitch to the league. The Lightning franchise is valued at approximately US$ 200 million. Barrie wasn’t doing much talking Monday.

“We are bound by Gary’s gag order,” noted Barrie guardedly, referring to commissioner Gary Bettman’s blackout directive. “But I will say we are pressing forward.”

Street and Smith’s Sports Business Daily is reporting that Barrie may be teaming up with St Louis real estate magnate Tony Sansone Jr. in order to put together a bid.

Barrie, however, realizes nothing is guaranteed in this high stakes game of puck control.

“If I got my $40 million back , that wouldn’t be a bad day, either, in this (economic) climate, said the real estate developer from Victoria.

Koules, a Hollywood producer, is thought to have more financial heft than Barrie, but neither man is able to buy out the other ?

“Can we work together ?” said Barrie, rhetorically re-stating a query.

“That’s an excellent question. If neither is able to take out the other, we might have to.”

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The Coyotes having been placed within bankruptcy proceeding by its ownership. It had sought to sell itself off the highest bidder via the Federal Bankruptcy court proceedings. Two bidders entered the fray , but seemingly, the NHL appeared to be all too biased right from the get-go, as to whom they thought would be a desirable option as an owner. On the one hand you had Jim Balsillie , the founder of RIM , makers of the Blackberry. And on the other, you had Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bulls’ owner Jerry Reinsdorf . Balsillie made it abundantly clear that should he win the battle to purchase the franchise then he’d relocate the team to Canada.

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and AP :

Reinsdorf out, NHL and Ice Edge in Coyotes case

By Bob Baum AP Sports Writer

Phoenix-(AP) A group headed by Jerry Reinsdorf has pulled out as a potential buyer of the Phoenix Coyotes just as the NHL and a partnership of Canadian and American investors have filed separate bids in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to purchase the team and keep it in Arizona.

The NHL announced its bid filing a few hours before word came that the investors’ group, known as Ice Edge Holdings ,had met Tuesday’s court-imposed deadline.

Ice Edge chairman Kenneth McCullough said in a news release that the plan was to “revitalize NHL hockey in Arizona and the southwestern United States.”

Reinsdorf’s said it was unable to meet the deadline for submitting a form offer. It also complained of “an unwilling seller” and “an organized publicity effort designed to provide negative and misleading information to interested parties.”

The Reinsdorf group said in a statement those tactics were a factor in the inability to reach an agreement with the city of Glendale on an acceptable lease to play in Jobing.com Arena.

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White Sox and Bulls' owner Jerry Reinsdorf shows off the trappings of success as sports franchise owner. With 6 NBA world championships and a World Series championship as well. Reinsdorf is one of the more successful owners within professional sports. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mary Rylands

The NHL was dead set against Balsillie’s intentions , stating that it was in the franchise’s best interest to remain the Phoenix area. Well , considering that the Coyotes rarely sold out in their home venue. One can surmise that interest in hockey within the city of Phoenix was about as welcoming as the bubonic plague. And that’s even with hockey great ,Wayne Gretzky , within their midst , as a principal partner in the ownership of the franchise. They’ve performed poorly as a team, from a business standpoint their fan-base has diminished greatly over the years , since their introduction to the area. All this and seemingly the NHL still believes that they can make a go of it, still,within the city of Phoenix. For his part Reinsdorf, was willing let the franchise remain within Phoenix. But he’d have a hands on approach as to the innermost dealings of the franchise , by bringing in his own people. Somewhere along the way however, having to deal with the NHL as well as the legal system and the ownership group of the Coyotes has proven to be far too much for Reinsdorf to bear. He could never get a straight answer from either party and it wasn’t as if the asking price would’ve proven to a problem for someone of Reinsdorf’s enormous wealth. So Reinsdorf has walked away from the table and left it all in the hands of the NHL .

Though I’ve never been an avid fan of the sport of hockey. I have to admit that when it comes to sports my first interest as such is from the business aspect of it all. It’s my belief that in order to have a successful sports franchise. You first have to have sound business principles in place as well as experienced individuals to carry those duties out. It would appear that in the NHL and for that matter in each of the four major high profiled sports. The owners and the respective hierarchies aren’t that much different from the sometimes cumbersome and archaic individuals to tend to think of themselves as captains of industry. That being said the lessons that have been learned recently as to the malaise within the financial sector , the automotive and industry and economy as a whole. And there may well be good reason to believe that the sanest individuals about , may well be those who forsook the chance to delve deeply into fairy tales being told as to the health and wealth of the country and the economy. The same too can be said as to the state of play within the National Hockey League as a whole.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman seen here speaks at a Reuters Media Summit in November 2007. At the time Bettman was discussing whether or not the league would be contracting , expanding or indeed relocating teams to new cities . picture appears courtesy of reuters/photo/ Brendan McDermid ....................

Commissioner Gary Bettman and the hierarchy of the NHL couldn’t find their own sphincters, if they were handed a flashlight in a dark room with an anatomically enhanced diagram to guide them. For all sense and purpose the state of play for hockey and its relevance is no better than it was before their walkout or since their return.

And The Survey Says ……….

If like me you’re an avid sports fan and you just can’t wait for the NFL and College Football season to start. And you have about as much interest in preseason football, as perhaps you might want in seeing the numerous repeat issues , as to how Brett Favre or Michael Vick might fare , as to the upcoming season. Enough of it already ! Then what better way than to get away from that all , than just analyzing some of the sports stories that are now taking place ?

Lou’s belief that Notre Dame will make it to the BCS championship game. Keep on taking those meds Lou. I can feel your saliva all over me at present . Thanks , now does that mean I’ll end up with the swine flu ?

In college football , ESPN analyst and well respected former coach , Lou Holtz has made his own prediction as to whom he believes will be playing for the BCS national championship. No surprises there, mind you , except the fact that one his choices is that of his former college team Notre Dame . Whom, Holtz believes, will be taking on the preseason AP Top 25 number one ranked, Florida Gators in the championship. Believe me , when I say understand Lou’s decision when it comes to remaining loyal to a program , where he served them well , as their coach. But in all honesty is there really anyone out there who really believes that The Fightin’ Irish really stands a cat in hell’s chance of making it to the championship game ? It’s not as if the program has been of any relevance in collegiate football for the last decade to begin with.

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen attends a press conference on campus as he's photographed and takes questions from members of the press as to Notre Dame's hopes for the upcoming college football season. picture appears courtesy of usatoday.com/photo/ John Zich ....................

It’s been the proverbial hype and the fact that at the continual behest of NBC that its games are televized to an ever dwindling audience. Never-mind the fact that the network itself has no real rationale in its continuing loyalty to the program. Other than the fact that its head of sports programming Dick Ebersol is a former alumni. But that would seem to explain it all ! I mean what else is there to watch on NBC at present other than the nightly Jay Leno Show , 30 Rock , The Office or Heroes ? When you’re the fourth placed network on broadcast television and you’re even behind Fox when it comes to prime time coverage . Then things have got to be really bad when you’re pinning your hopes on Notre Dame football games , in order to lure viewers and the patronage of your corporate advertisers.

As to Holtz’s reasons behind this sudden burst of enthusiasm for the Charlie Weis coached team . I can only think that Holtz, himself , hasn’t woken up and smelt the coffee. Or one can surmise that his meds are being prescribed to him by Michael Jackson’s former personal physician, Dr Conrad Murray. Over the tenure of Weis’ rein this program hasn’t improved significantly. And if people were being honest , Weis hasn’t really performed any better than his predecessor Tyrone Willingham as a coach. And that’s despite the fact that last season they won a meaningless Bowl game against the University of Hawaii . That being said , if that’s what Lou Holtz is judging this program by and the mere fact that he believes that the team’s quarterback Jimmy Clausen has finally matured into a college player. Then all bets are off !

Whilst on appearance Clausen seems a good player . His leadership skills and on-field decision making does leave a great deal to be desired. Less we forget , this team in terms of its roster isn’t one that you’d deem to be breath taking, in terms of its depth and experience. Even with the return of a number of seniors on the squad. But then again for The Fightin’ Irish boosters and alumnus out there , they live in hope. Anything short of a major Bowl appearance and one will have to question whether or not Weis’ tenure at Notre Dame has been at all worth it. The continued excuses and the fact that the university extended Weis’ contract. It either proves that university President Rev. John I. Jenkins and Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick were foolhardy or they may well have been worried that he’d bolt back to the NFL. I’ll leave it for you to be the judge of that .

Unless I’m mistaken the reason for the New York Mets’ signing of Francisco Rodriguez was to secure a closer that could get the job done. Albeit , that the team over the last couple of years has seemingly fallen apart with the regularity of Janet Jackson or Tara Reid wardrobe malfunction. Staged or not at the time it made you sit up and take note as to what was going on. And for a team that has underperformed overwhelmingly this season. I for one am sick and tired of hearing the continuous excuses from the paeans within Foxsports and ESPN as to what ails the Mets. OK, so one can attribute many of team’s woes to injuries. But isn’t there a reason why an organization has an active roster of 25 players plus its affiliates within AAA and AA ? Whereby they can draw those resources from ? But then again these are the foolhardy Mets . Where they’ve always been of the opinion that they can buy their way out of trouble.

To see the Mets operate when it comes to making many of their personnel decisions. In many respects it’s like viewing a sailor on leave making a deal with a hooker for her services. No matter how steep the price may well be , just as long as he gets laid. Never-mind the fact that the hooker mightn’t be all that experienced to begin with. That’s been the where-with all and mindset of the club’s GM Omar Minaya .

As to their fortunes this year , let’s just say that with a record of (57-68) in the NL East . Their season is effectively over-all that they’re now playing for , is self respect and pride. Not that any of that has been exhibited with by the team to begin with. They’ve bitched and moaned as to their problems and that’s just the players and front office. Never-mind that their fans have been their usual contemptuous selves. Who’d have thought of any New York fan to begin with ? Rarely has a team promised so much each season but continually comes up short with an ever increasing consistency. But then again these are the New York Mets that we’re talking about ! Mediocrity seems to the norm for a franchise that can but look on , as to the success of their crosstown rivals the New York Yankees .

Pitching problems apart this team can’t manufacture runs if their lives depended upon it. And nowhere has this been more indicative than when it comes to their ace Johan Santana . Countless times this season the player has kept his team in games. Only for them to fall apart offensively because of their anemic play . And defensively, this team leaves a hell of a lot to be desired. Little leaguers could teach several members on this team how to play this game while being fundamentally sound at the same time still relish a zeal for playing baseball. Instead it’s like watching a bunch of overpaid primadonnas play at the part of being a professional baseball player.

And if at present , if there’s anything that is indicative as to how out of sorts and the idiocy that’s now taking place within the Mets’ organization. It is that of the case of the team’s former closer Billy Wagner . The player, having resumed his career after having been on the disabled list. He was placed on waivers by the team and an interest was shown in the player by the Boston Red Sox . That notwithstanding , the player is seeking assurances from the his suitors that they’ll guarantee him being a closer on the team. Unless I’m mistaken the Red Sox already have a closer in Johnathan Papelbon . Who if anything , is more than Wagner’s equal and is far more reliable. And whilst I understand that Wagner has a no trade and buyout clause within his contract. He’s hardly in a position to be dictating to either party , as to where he ought to ultimately end up playing . But such is the idiocy of the sport of baseball , where the players seemingly have the real power-management and the game’s hierarchy are held hostage to their demands , much of the time.

Mets' closer Billy Wagner poses for the team's official pictures prior to the start of the '09 season at the team's training facility in Port St Lucie in Florida . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Doug Benc .......................

Now come full circle and if things couldn’t get much worse for the Mets. They’ve now lost Santana for the season, due to a lingering elbow injury. That being said if the player should be in need of having to undergo surgery. It’s best that he’s shut down now and the team tend to the problem.

Courtesy of Yahoo and AP Sports :

Mets trade reliever Billy Wagner

By Jimmy Golen , AP Sports Writer .

Boston-(AP) Billy Wagner is on his way to the Boston Red Sox.

After a few days of back-and-forth talks about Wagners’ future , the New York Mets traded the left-handed reliever to the Red Sox for two players to be named.

The AL wild card leaders had claimed Wagner on waivers. He’ll join a strong bullpen that features All-Star closer Johnathan Papelbon .

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The travails of the Mets are never-ending. But many of their problems have come from the sheer ineptitude shown by their front office staff and the moronic coaching led by Jerry Manuel and his staff. And seemingly the Wilpon family, as owners of the team, have shown faith in not only Manuel but also Minaya. As they’ve stated that the two will be back for next season. In the case Mets you can’t win but for losing and then some !

Mets' ace Johan Santana on the mound against the New York Mets at Citi Field in Flushing , New York. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jim McIsaac ................

Courtesy of AP Sports :

Mets’ Santana to have elbow surgery, out for year

By Ben Walker , AP Baseball Writer .

New York-(AP) Johan Santana needs surgery for bone chips in his left elbow and the star pitcher is out for the season, the latest blow for a New York Mets’ team battered by injuries.

The team said their 30-year-old ace is expected to be ready for spring training next year. The two-time Cy Young winner was examined Tuesday by Mets’ medical director Dr David Altchek in New York.

Mets’ general manager Omar Minaya said Santana was evaluated around the All Star break, adding the injury worsened in recent weeks, especially after his last start. The GM said “nothing was there” during the previous checkup.

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