Tim Tebow Is Not My Role Model ……….. But Who Cares ………..?

Tim Tebow Is Not My Role Model ……….. But Who Cares ………..?

In all honesty the hype being poured over Gators’ quarterback Tim Tebow, though not entirely unwarranted. It is now placing an insurmountable pressure on the young player’s shoulders. The NFL draft geeks are already gauging the player’s attributes. And given his lackluster display in the Seniors’ Game, I wouldn’t at present put a great deal of store it. Asides from that, the game on appearance was about as competitive tiddly-winks . There was no real determination there from the seniors , other than to impress the convened NFL scouts and general managers who were in attendance. If anything , what warrants being looked at , is the players have handled themselves under pressure during their game time decision making on the field of play. That if anything ought to be the overall determining factor. Rather than assessing a player by his 40 yard dash time and his vertical leap. Oh by the way , less we forget there’s all too important ‘Wonderlic Test’ ? Where would the NFL scouts , GM’s and coaches be without that ?

Gators' player Tim Tebow (15) and his coach Urban Meyer discuss their options during a game. photo appears courtesy of Getty Images/ Chris Dickson ...................

Now far be it for me to suggest that the amateur draft geeks out there aren’t entitled to their opinions. But trying to pick a player that’ll resonate with an NFL franchise and make them a contender . Well , in essence, it’s like picking a ‘penny stock’ and thinking that overnight it’ll become the next Berkshire Hathaway or Google stock that will go through the roof, in terms of its value. It’s a shot in the dark , that even the experts themselves aren’t completely sure of. But they too, try to convince us that they’re good at what they do. Here’s a caveat, when you have Mel Kiper Jr telling you that the likes of Ryan Leaf and Akili Smith will become future stars in the NFL. Then by all means look to see if Kiper has a shovel in his hands while he’s digging himself up from the knee high dung heap that surrounds him. Another reminder, at your risk don’t take or put much store in the advice being given to you by CNBC’s Jim Cramer. When a person of his alleged experience and success tells you that he failed to use due diligence while telling viewers to plow their life savings into AIG . Then you know his ass, also, has been sailing far too close to the wind for comfort !

While there has been a certain amount of justification concerning Tim Tebow as a player and the fact that he’s a profound risk taker. What one can’t argue against is that he’s a proven winner. His body of work over the entirety of his college career has proven that. A two time national championship winner, Heisman Trophy winner and twice placing in the top 5. Tebow’s career has been amongst the most illustrious in all of collegiate football. And he’s by far the most renowned and revered player in the Gators’ history. But those facts alone won’t be what he’ll be judged upon , come NFL Draft Day in early April. It will be upon his abilities as a player and whether or not he has the physical and mental attributes to take the next step at the professional level . Players with lesser talent than Tebow have succeeded in the NFL. While others with what can be best described as being prodigiously talented , failed to live up the perceived hype and failed miserably within the professional ranks of the NFL. Many are already beginning to cast Tebow in the latter category . And others believe that he has the genuine ability to make as a professional in the NFL. Some of his detractors believe that because he’s not your proto-typical NFL quarterback. Then he’s doomed to failure and it would be in his best interest to become a converted tight-end or or fullback . Tiim Tebow believes that he can make it in the league as a quarterback and it is, his intent, to prove the naysayers wrong.

One of the gripes against Tebow’s coach at Florida, Urban Meyer. It was the very fact that the coach and his ‘coaching staff’ have never developed and produced a college quarterback who’s proven to be a success in the NFL . It certainly hasn’t happened with former Utah Utes’ player Alex Smith . And the former Utes’ player’s struggles have been well chronicled since he was taken number one overall in the NFL Draft by the San Francisco49ers in 2005 (click on link to view in full). And for the team’s front office and coaching staff , it has to proven to be a financial and competitive disaster ! As to what this would suggest about Meyer as a coach and that of his staff in being unable to produce a quarterback of moderate talent ? It would suggest that his main priorities are with winning and not completely with the genuine development of the players’ talents that have been made available to him.

Courtesy of Jaguars.com

Jags need what the draft has

Pass-rushers abound

By Vic Ketchman , jaguars.com Senior Editor

General Manager Gene Smith shouldn’t have to leave the value line of his draft board to address the Jaguars’ needs in this year’s draft. That’s the early forecast as the team heads to Indianapolis for this week’s annual scouting combine.

“The strength is on the defensive side of the ball. The strength is the defensive line. It matches,” Smith said of the talent in this draft and the Jaguars’ needs, which appear to be greatest on the defensive side of the ball.

Specifically, the Jaguars need to improve their pass-rush, which produced a league-low and franchise-low 14 sacks last season. The good news is that this year’s draft class is loaded with pass-rush prospects.

“I think it’s a good group. You’ve got some 4-3 ends and some 3-4 outside linebackers, plus, you have some interior defensive linemen,” Smith said.

Defensive ends selected in the first round of this year’s draft might approach double figures. It’s a group that’s headed by edge pass-rushers Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech and Jason Pierre-Paul of South Florida.

The Jaguars will have either the 10th or 11th overall pick, depending on a coin flip at the combine with the Denver Broncos. Morgan and Pierre-Paul would figure to be early candidates for the Jaguars but Smith confirmed to jaguars.com that he’d like to trade down and acquire an extra pick or picks, and the depth of the pass-rush crop would suggest that Smith could trade down and still get his man.

Florida’s Carlos Dunlap, USC’s Everson Griffen, Northwestern’s Corey Wootton and Mississippi’s Greg Hardy are top prospects, and South Florida’s George Selvie, Virginia Tech’s Jason Worilds, Arkansas State’s Alex Carrington and Murray State’s Austen Lane are intriguing down-the-line prospects, and the list doesn’t end there.

The list, in fact, is so deep and the Jaguars’ need is so great that Smith could find a pass-rusher at the top of his board on multiple occasions. Smith said he will remain firm in his commitment to drafting the best available player.

Will you stick to it, he was asked?

=====================================
In order to read this article in its entirety
just click on the link provided
=====================================

And for Tebow , he now has to prove to his detractors that he’s more than capable of playing in the NFL and worthy of being a ‘first round’ daft pick. Most have him as a ‘mid to late second round’ pick. And that’s when measured against the other quarterbacks in the upcoming draft. Amongst his peers at the position are Sam Bradford , Colt McCoy , Tony Pike and Jimmy Clausen . For the pundits who feel that Clausen may well be the ‘pick of the litter’ in what has been suggested is a very talented bunch of quarterbacks. Think again ? He’s ‘good’ but he’s not that good ! The only thing that has made Clausen look impressive was the mere fact that he had Golden Tate , as a receiver. Beyond that his temperament is questionable, as are his leadership skills and the qualities he brings in terms of his demeanor. And less we forget that under former coach, Charlie Weis – Notre Dame was hardly thought of as a competitive footballing bastion , throughout his tenure with the program. Weis’ record bears this out, as does Clausen’s.

Hometown favorites, the Jacksonville Jaguars are thought to have Tebow on their radar as their number on pick in the first round. Commercially , it would make a great deal of sense but the team as a whole , is dire need of so much more than beyond that , of having the former Gators’ player, play in his home state. Jaguars’ owner Wayne Weaver is said to be greatly enamored with the player and his abilities. But when measured against his team’s greatest needs , it would prove to be more productive in using the pick more judiciously. Team GM , Gene Smith along with coach , Jack Del Rio and the coaching staff have a great deal of assessing to do , as to the team’s overall and most acute needs. And with the organization due to have the tenth pick in the first round , it will be interesting to see whether or not they follow the common thought process , that Tebow will indeed be their first choice in the upcoming 2010 NFL Draft.

I’m neither a Gators’ fan or for that matter a Jaguars’ fans. However, it’d be nice to see some sort of competitive edge brought to the three professional NFL franchises within the state of Florida. Tim Tebow may well be the answer to the Jaguars’ prayers and then again it may not. He’s neither my role model but he’s damn well better than the likes of the so called can’t miss chances that we’d been bombarded with over the past few years at the quarterback position. In the end it will come down to the player’s desire to prove his detractors wrong and the environment where he’s placed in order that he might succeed. So lets see how things will actually unfold on the day for the player and the team who chooses to make him their first overall pick.

Alan Parkins aka tophatal ………………

================================

SWV brings you ‘Rain’

====================================

I need someone to tickle my fancy ?

The rather delectable Bianca Gascoigne. Have fun while perusing the picture gallery. And remember, in order to appreciate the content in all of its glory. Just click unto each picture to view, up close and personal.

====================================

Bianca Gascoigne , lingerie model and tv reality star in the UK.

===============================

The Rooney Rule

The Rooney Rule

Commendable as it appears to be, I now have to wonder whether or not the intentions behind this all, is well worth it. Named after famed Pittsburgh Steelers’ owner Dan Rooney. The so called ‘Rooney Rule’s‘ intent was set to see that minorities are given the chance to interview for vacant head coach’s positions within the NFL. And considering that the very first minority to be a coach in the NFL was Frederick Douglas ‘Fritz’ Pollard in the 1920’s. One has to wonder why it was necessary to have this rule installed as mandate for all teams within the NFL. But it was apparent that with the racial tone of the league, minorities weren’t being afforded the chance of advancement from beyond the playing field and unto the sidelines as coaches, much less the chance of becoming an owner at the league’s inception.

Frederick Douglas 'Fritz' Pollard , the first minority coach of an NFL team. Pollard is an inductee in the NFL Football Hall of Fame.

Minorities now make up 72% of the player personnel within the NFL and it appears to be generally acceptable within the league and to the fans. But how is it that the NFL while mandating for such a role, has essentially done little if anything to try and bring in a minority owner within its ranks ? By all accounts the lone occasion this attempted maneuver was made , due diligence was not taken by the league’s panel in their investigations. An an attempt was made by what we were informed was a prominent African American businessman , Reggie Fowler who was financially solvent. His attempt to purchase the Minnesota Vikings was met with a great deal of derision and skepticism. And it certainly didn’t help that this individual had the financial means but it was said could not provide the league with enough financial details for them to ensure that his ownership bid could be granted to become the league’s first and only prominent minority owner of an NFL franchise. In the end Fowler would become part of a consortium led by German businessman, Zygi Wilf, as the owner of the franchise. Wilf would become the principal partner in the ownership group of the Minnesota Vikings with a 60% stake in the organization. Fowler has a 20 % stake in the franchise, with the remaining 20 % split amongst the remaining partners of this limited partnership group. An owner in part but not a majority stake owner that would clarify the term “prominent ethnic owner” of an NFL franchise. While some facts are disputed as to Fowler’s supposed wealth , it appears from the outset that certain maneuvers were in place to deny him the success in an attempt to purchase the team, originally. As to who was behind this all , we will in fact never know. Suffice to say , that the image of the NFL was somewhat tarnished by the episode.

Washington Redskins’ General Manager Bruce Allen leaves after holding a press conference on the dismissal of Jim Zorn as Head Coach of the team. The press conference was held at Redskins’ Park the team’s headquarters and practice facility in Ashburn , Va, on 4th January 2010. picture appears courtesy of Getty Images/ Win McNamee ….

It wasn’t as if this investor was Robert L. ‘Bob’ Johnson, founder of BET and the prominent African American billionaire media mogul or famed NBA legend Magic Johnson. The latter of whom has branched out to become a commercial real estate mogul and business entrepreneur, with a believed estimated net worth approaching $750million. It appears that the NFL despite its image of being a charismatic and an all welcoming league.But as of yet the one vestige in showing the fans that minorities have finally arrived in terms of a majority ownership of a franchise, has yet to materialize or be realized.

San Diego, Ca,. January 3rd 2010. Kris Dielman (#68), Dennis Norman (#64), and Nick Hardwick (#61) of the San Diego Chargers enter the field against the Washington Redskins during the Washington Redskins v San Diego Chargers NFL Game on January 3, 2010 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 23-20. picture appears courtesy of Getty Images/ Doug Miraelle .......

Courtesy of Associated Press and Yahoo Sports

Redskins talking to coaches to replace fired Zorn

By Joseph White , AP Sports Writer

Ashburn, Va. (AP)—Jim Zorn was fired by the Washington Redskins early Monday, the first step in yet another team overhaul under owner Dan Snyder.

Zorn was informed of his dismissal shortly after the team returned to Redskins Park following Sunday’s season-ending 23-20 loss at San Diego.

“I just know that last place is not Redskins football,” general manager Bruce Allen said. “Last place two years in a row is not Redskins football.”

Zorn went 12-20 over two seasons, but he lost 18 of his past 24 games after a 6-2 start in 2008. The Redskins struggled early despite a weak schedule this season and finished 4-12, their worst record since 1994.

“No one in the organization is satisfied with our record over the last two years,” Snyder said in a statement released by the team, “and I am sure that Jim would concur with that statement. It has been painful for him, too. I certainly accept responsibility for mistakes that I have made. I am hopeful that our fans will accept my commitment and pledge to deliver a franchise that can compete in the NFC East every season.”

Zorn’s replacement will be Washington’s seventh coach since Snyder bought the team in 1999. Playing a role in the decision will be Allen, who was hired as the GM last month. Allen would not comment on former Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, who is considered the favorite to get the job.

“We’re in the process of talking to people,” Allen said. “We have a good game plan of what we’re going to do.”

Neither Snyder nor Zorn were made available for comment.

Zorn’s dismissal had been expected for months. The front office stripped him of his play-calling duties in late October, and Snyder has interviewed assistant coach Jerry Gray for the job weeks ago, according to the Fritz Pollard Alliance, which monitors minority hiring in the NFL.

The new coach, Snyder and Allen will have a monumental task to rebuild a team with many roster deficiencies and major questions at offensive line, quarterback and running back.

================================================
In order to view this article in its entirety just click on the text
link provided herein
================================================

Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn looks on from the sideline against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on January 3, 2010 in San Diego, California. The Chargers defeated the Redskins 23-20. picture appears courtesy of Getty Images/ Jeff Gross ............

The NBA and MLB seems to have done quite nicely for themselves, with minorities coveting and obtaining a ‘seat up at the big house’ at the dining table. Where the owners can feast upon the billions of dollars that annually finds its way into the NFL coffers. This might on the face of it appear to be racially insensitive and motivated. But I assure you, nothing could be further from the truth as I feel it only proper at this juncture to let you know that for in spite of its facade. The hierarchy of the NFL may well be the best organized , financially sound and ran of the four major sports in North America. And that at the end of the day is in essence what the NFL is all about. Any bye product from it all in terms of entertainment and plaudits from the fans, media and populace in general, is merely further proof of the game’s popularity.

Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn, left, greeting team owner Dan Snyder before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, in Landover, Md. Zorn was fired by the Washington Redskins early Monday, Jan. 4, 2009, the first step in yet another team overhaul / Nick Wass .....

And while we’ve seen the success of Tony Dungy as the coach of the Indianapolis Colts, being the first African American NFL coach to win the Superbowl. And the ongoing success of his of successor, Jim Caldwell augurs well for the current situation. But other than Caldwell and Raheem Morris of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, there are no other African American coaches in the NFL. Furthermore, that situation is even hindered by the fact that assistant head coaches and coordinators aren’t always afforded the luxury of the required cursory interview as demanded by the league’s mandated policy. A team has to only say that they have a minority as a prospective candidate and essentially create the scenario that the process is being adhered to. An initial cursory interview may well be granted.

The Washington Redskins with a new general manager in place, with Bruce Allen now assuming the position formerly held by Vinny Cerrato. The Daniel Snyder owned team might just be the worst ran NFL franchise in the league at present. Their turnovers in coaches is line with consistency of the Oakland Raiders and their ‘revolving door policy’ when it comes to coaches. Success or lack of it thereof, seems to be the norm for both of these franchises. Jim Zorn is the current coach of the Redskins and the impending upheaval appears apparent that Zorn’s two year tenure as the coach seems about to come to an abrupt end.

Reggie Fowler, left, has agreed to buy the Minnesota Vikings from current owner Red McCombs, right. The deal, worth a reported $625 million. However, the deal fell through when the NFL panel entrusted to review the bid stated that Fowler's financial backing and finances wasn't all in place and met with their tacit test. The deal was torpedoed and Fowler would then become part of the consortium headed by Zygi Wilf that would be successful in their purchase of the team from then owner Red McCombs . picture appears courtesy of afp/reuters/ Paul Marshall .............. ,

Courtesy of NFL.com Wire reports

Zorn out after two seasons as Redskins’ coach; is Shanahan in ?

The Washington Redskins fired coach Jim Zorn early Monday, the first step in yet another team overhaul that appears likely to involve Mike Shanahan.

An unidentified official within the NFL informed The Associated Press that new Redskins general manager Bruce Allen talked to Shanahan by phone Monday, and league sources told NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora to expect an organizational overhaul by Thursday but maybe sooner. Shanahan, who won two Super Bowls in 14 seasons as the Denver Broncos’ coach, would take over as coach/team president and quickly bring in assistant coaches and front-office personnel.

Zorn was dismissed shortly after the team returned to Redskins Park following Sunday’s season-ending 23-20 loss at San Diego.

Zorn went 12-20 over two seasons, but he lost 18 of his last 24 games after a 6-2 start in 2008. The Redskins struggled early despite a weak schedule this season and finished 4-12, their worst record since 1994.

It was the second consecutive season that the Redskins finished in last place in the NFC East under Zorn.

Allen said in a news conference Monday that “last place is not Redskin football.” He also refused to speculate on who the next coach would be, but he repeatedly said that a “passion for football” would be a primary requirement. He added that “head coach in the NFL is the most demanding executive position in sports.”

Zorn’s replacement will be Washington’s seventh coach since Dan Snyder bought the team in 1999.

“This has been an extremely difficult season for our organization and for the fans,” Snyder said in a statement released by the team. “Bruce Allen spent many hours examining the football operations, and we are both determined to do whatever it takes to build a championship team. That process begins today

===================================================
In order to read the NFL.com wire report in its entirety just click
on the text link provided
===================================================

They’ve eagerly pursued Mike Shanahan for the position. And after two initial interviews, it appears that Shanahan is the successor in waiting for the presumed vacancy. What might the most egregious maneuver in all of this has been the apparent move by the Redskins to interview one of their low tiered assistant coaches,Jerry Gray, assistant defensive coordinator, who happens to be an African American. Now if this is being done merely to adhere to the Rooney policy, instead of it being a valid interview for a viable candidate for the position. But it appears that this is nothing more than a ploy on the part of the Redskins. It remains to be seen whether or not the NFL hierarchy under Roger Goodell as the league’s commissioner will have anything at all to say about the situation. It will be very interesting to see whether or not they will watch with a great deal of close scrutiny as to whether or not the Washington Redskins will follow the league mandated policy. On the face of it, it looks as if the Redskins are following the policy. But if anything they are actually circumventing the policy by merely creating the appearance that the interviewee is a candidate for the position. And that if anything smacks of the insidious behavior expected of a franchise wherein the norm of segregation was said to be still in being from a coaching standpoint, albeit that the roster of the franchise is very much a diverse one in nature.

Jerry Gray, secondary's and assistant defensive coordinat of the Washington Redskins. Gray has been the lone minority candiate interviewed for the now vacant head coach's position. Former Broncos' head coach has twice been interviewed for the position , prior to the dismissal of Jim Zorn as head coach of the team. picture appears courtesy of TWP/ John McDonnell .....

Segregation in sports at the player personnel level is a thing of the past within the NFL. But from a coaching standpoint it looks likes it’s either at a standstill or about to indeed take a turn for the worse. But this situation just isn’t happening at the NFL level but also at the collegiate level. Of the 120 collegiate football positions at the Division 1 A level, there are less than a dozen coaches that are of African American origin or of any other minority for that matter. But at the collegiate level where the NCAA governs college athletics. There’s nothing that mandates the hiring policy when it comes to the hiring of a football coach. It’s not really so much of a dilemma that can’t be resolved. But for the NCAA it’s not something that is of an urgent priority for the organization or the various conferences. They’re not openly willing to discuss the situation and it appears neither are the NCAA. The Black Coaches Administrators (BCA) are the only ones who are pressing the colleges, the NCAA and NFL , on the issue of their hiring practices, as it concerns minorities at the college coaching level and amongst the professional ranks. And what success if any is almost mute on the part of the NCAA and how they view the situation.

Denver , October '06. Head coach Mike Shanahan of the Denver Broncos looks to call a play against the Baltimore Ravens during a cold rainy first quarter on October 9, 2006 at Invesco Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado. picture appears courtesy of Getty Images/ Brian Bahr .......

The aspirants for these positions more often than not, are qualified for those positions but even if they are not. How are they are going to know what qualities will be needed by them in order to make them better suited candidates ? Especially in the case where they’re being denied the opportunity to even interview for a vacant position. At the collegiate level there is no ‘Rooney Rule’ in place for the candidates seeking a vacant coach’s position. But this is something where questions are needed to be asked and answered concerning this very issue. As to whether or not we’ll never know what will be forthcoming in the terms of an answer remains to be seen. But somehow these question have to be posed and answered unequivocally. If only to allude to the fact that there is clear transparency when it comes to the hiring of minority coaches at the collegiate as well as at the NFL level of football.

The Rooney Rule was put in place for a reason but it appears that now the NFL may well be calling time on this particular mandate.. As to the NCAA, well they’ll just continue to march to the beat of their very own drum completely oblivious of the realities of the real world and how it exists ! With its immense power in terms of its governing of the collegiate athletics’ landscape, it goes unchallenged by the major conferences as well as the Federal Government. And the Federal Government at times, would rather chide the NCCA , rather than demand that the NCAA do what is right and morally acceptable.

NB This piece was originally produced within another forum within my own site. http://tophatal.wordpress.com/ . Click here to read that and any other article that might be of interest to you.

tophatal

Brian Kelly, You’re Up

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have picked Brian Kelly to replace Charlie Weis as the team’s head football coach, according to a report in the South Bend Tribune. Throughout the search, which began roughly two weeks ago, Kelly was always described as A.D. Jack Swarbrick’s top choice. Now, Kelly will get the chance to prove that Swarbrick made the right hire.

All Kelly has done in his previous coaching stints is win. In thirteen years at Division II Grand Valley State, he won two national titles. In three years at Central Michigan, he won a MAC championship. And he won two straight Big East championships in his final two seasons at Cincinnati, which ended with two BCS bowl berths for the Bearcats.

Since the hiring has yet to be made official, there is no word on how much the Irish gave Kelly to pry him away from Cincinnati. Also, there is no indication as to whether Kelly will coach the Bearcats in the Sugar Bowl.

Much more to come on this story tomorrow.

A Bedtime Story And Fairy Tale All Rolled Up Into One …………………..

One upon a time in a place, far, far ,far away. There stood two very famous college football programs. Between them they’d won several national championships. And in-fact , they were so scary that they ran amok within collegiate football. They were very much like demons who ran wild and literally destroyed everything within their path.

Shrek and Donkey ……a kid’s animated movie(“Shrek”) based on a number fairy tale characters that were well worth watching and laughing about.

But in the ensuing years something went awry as these two once esteemed college programs fell upon hard times. So much so, that they’re barely talked about nowadays. And when they are , it’s always in the past-tence. Now if you’re wondering as to which two programs , I’m indeed talking about . Then I’ll give you something of a hint with regard to their logo or mascot.

Florida State Seminoles mascot.

Sebastian the Ibis, the Miami Hurricanes' mascot.

And now that these two esteemed programs have fallen upon hard times. Their effervescent and erst-while fans are of the belief that hope, is just around the corner. And that they’ll indeed rise to prominence once again. For many it can’t come quick enough. While for others they can only live in hope and pray that the impossible can happen.

As you’ve no doubt noted the programs are from the state of Florida. Where college football comes only second to …..well, nothing. As it borders upon being maniacal amongst the fans. It may well be God then family. But college football ranks right up there as to its importance.

Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden on the sidelines. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo ............

For the Miami Hurricanes and the Florida State Seminoles these last few years have proven to be a torrid time and a woeful existence. Nonetheless, football as their fans know it continues to exist. As to what form it takes to those on the outside looking in, is anyone’s guess.

The Florida State Seminoles under their long tenured coach, Bobby Bowden , has seen its fortunes rise and then bite the dust. And while no one doubts the fervor of the coach to be in his position and to continue coaching. In essence, the game has suddenly passed him by. He no longer gets the recruits that in large part , others could only dream of. But now it’s merely scraps that’ve been left on the table, as to the merits of the program’s recruiting. It is now no longer about what you’ve done in the past. It’s more about what have you done lately ? And one can reasonably suggest that Bowden and his staff haven’t exactly been doing anything of great value at all. The program and its play has become languid , lacking imagination , creativity and above all competitiveness. And the feeling is that the only reason , Bowden remains in the position is to actually pad his stats , with regard to his tally of collegiate wins. That tally now stands at 382 wins.

And as commendable as that might seem. When you’re not in the midst of things, as to national championship aspirations. Then it just doesn’t mean anything. The program under Bowden was steeped in that tradition. From major Bowl appearances to national championships. And for the program those came in 1993 and 1999, respectively. Fast forward , to today and you’d be hard pressed to find anything that’s at all desirable with regard to the program.

Miami Hurricanes' coach Randy Shannon on the sidelines of a game. picture appears courtesy of cstv.com/sports/collegefootball/miami hurricanes

For the Miami Hurricanes and their once esteemed program. Their fate as of late , has essentially mirrored the economic downturn of the country. Only in the case of the Canes , theirs has been somewhat longer. Everyone could see it coming but the so called experts merely stuck to their homespun truths, that there wasn’t really anything wrong and the tide would indeed turn. Well that tide has now become a cyclone. And the program and its players have essentially become caught in the midst of dire mediocrity and sheer ineptitude. Not unlike what we’re also witnessing from their counterparts in the guise of the ‘noles.

But then again both programs and many of their more famous alumni would have you believe that ‘…. change is just around the corner’. A far cry from those gaudy days when the Canes’ program , then under the auspices of Howard Schnellenberger , Jimmy Johnson , Dennis Erickson, Butch Davis and Larry Coker were reigning supreme. Each led the program with a certain amount of distinction. And along the way,they’ve won five national championships and produced a litany of players at the collegiate level who then went on the play in the NFL.

In light of that , it has been a long time since one can really attribute anything of merit with regard to the program. Their last national championship came in the 2001-02 season . When they won the Rose Bowl. defeating Nebraska 37-14 in what would prove to be the last of their five national championship wins.

Many have attributed the downward slide of the Hurricanes’ program. When it saw fit to leave the Big East Conference and then make their way to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) . Which could hardly be considered , to be a bastion of powerhouse football at the college level.But it may well have been done primarily to add to the luster of the conference and the financial inducements at the time. The ACC in all essence, is more widely known for its college basketball prowess, than anything achieved at the collegiate football level. And for the Canes and their coach, Randy Shannon, in his third season ,who has been entrusted to bring back to the luster to the program. It can’t be understated, that there are some very difficult times ahead for the program.

As for a former player for his alma-mater and a member of a championship winning team. Randy Shannon , though not viewed as the ideal replacement for his predecessor , Larry Coker. He does know and have the wherewithal to add some discipline and ability to the Canes’ program. But if anything it has been his overall inexperience that many have began to question. And therein lies the conundrum that’s said to be facing this program. Whereas , it was felt that Coker went away from the things that brought success for the program. The vast majority of the recruiting was done locally within the South Florida area. Long considered to be a hot-bed of footballing talent. Coker , saw fit to shy away from that mindset and at the same time made a major upheaval with regard to his coaching staff. And that was after having found success in winning the program’s last national championship.
Which goes to the old adage ‘…. if it ain’t broken, it doesn’t need fixing’. Shannon for his part has reversed the philosophy of Coker’s.

There was indeed a time when a FSU , Miami Hurricanes’ match-up actually meant something on the national football stage. Now it’s more like having to endure the removal of a bad tooth but without the assist of novacaine to brunt the pain. Something that you could well do without but for the sake of others , you’ll just grin and bare it. And on Monday , the 7th September , we’ll get to view this on a national stage as to the programs face off against each other. It’ll no longer be for the footballing supremacy within the state. As for all sense and purpose the University of Florida (Florida Gators) now rules the roost within the state of Florida. Having won two national championships in the last three years-in 2006 and 2008, respectively. All this was achieved under their coach, Urban Meyer. Which has brought about something of a new pecking order within the state.

As to the event on Monday and what can be envisaged. If it’s anything like the games in recent memory . Then we could be either in for a treat or quite possibly a great deal of tedious and uneventful play from both teams. Having alluded to the fact earlier, the competitiveness of both programs have left a great many of their most vociferous fans wandering if there’s still a need for the two teams to actually play each other. But on the fact of it , it doesn’t really tell us anything at all, as to how far either of the teams have come. They’re no longer viewed as being relevant on the national stage. And within the ACC , they’re not even considered as being amongst the better teams within the conference. That’s indeed how far both have fallen on the national stage.

Much like any fairy tale that’s often told, the fans of both programs are said to be looking for a happy ending. As to which of the two teams will prevail, your guess is as good as any. But one can only surmise that the ending of this tale has some happiness for one and some heartache for the other.
Who do you think this will apply to ? The Canes or the ‘Noles ?

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 .

_______________________________________________________
In order to read the Yahoo AP article in its entirety just click on the text headlined link shown.
_______________________________________________________

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.

________________________________________________________
In order to read this AP article in its entirety then just click on the headlined text shown within .
________________________________________________________

Nobody Can Do Me Like Me ……….. Cause I’ve Got It Goin’ On Like That

I truly believe that the three most overhyped things in sports at present, are , … in no discerning order . Dale Earnhardt Jr and his prowess in NASCAR . I’ll ask this question only once . When is this guy going to win a friggin’ race ? All, I continually ever hear from his myopic and blindly loyal fans, are the continous excuses as to his vehicle. Well I guess , that’s what tends to happen when you drive a domestic piece of crap ?

Earnhardt Jr (right) sits with Martin Truez during Friday's practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup being held on the road course at Watkins Glen , New York state. The race scheduled for Sunday has been rescheduled for Monday due to the inclement weather conditions of Sunday afternoon. Earnhardt remains winless for the Sprint Cup season. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Russ Hamilton ..............

Here sits a driver , 23rd in the Nextel Sprint Cup Standings , whose primary purpose at present , appears to be, is to live off his esteemed father’s name. Rather than going out there and carving a real career for himself. But then again that’s the way one can perceive the world of NASCAR to be .

Notre Dame offensive tackle Paul Duncan during the team's football practice in South Bend , Indiana. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Joe Raymond ..................

Am I wrong , to believe that the coaches have been drinking far too much of the Kool-Aid ? How in hell’s name can anyone actually believe that the Fightin’ Irish’s program of Notre Dame this upcoming season , can be ranked inside the top 25 ? I know that we’re all suppose to take College Football seriously. But even the idiots who allegedly work studiously to bring us these rankings appear to have hit one hookah, too many. That’s when I’ve got to take a second glance and ask WTF ?

Fightin' Irish coach Charlie Weis at the team's practice in South Bend, Ind. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Joe Raymond .............

All this coming from a program that came off a (7-6) season with a win in , a non-consequential Bowl game. But then again the expectations for a once mighty program aren’t meant to be all that great to begin. Not as long as the mighty NBC and its high priest Dick Ebersol continue to fawn over the program. In reality however, NBC has about as much credibility nowadays as the members of Congress have , when it comes to dealing with the nation’s woes.

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Claussen. As a senior Claussen will be looked to for leadership with regard to the team. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Joe Raymond ....................

The apparent 49-21 mauling that they placed on Hawaii , in the Hawaii Bowl, was enough we believe to finally put us in a place to think that program is back to where it ought to be. Well, that’s like having the opinion that former governor Sarah Palin would have indeed made a fine Vice Presidential candidate had Senator John McCain won the Presidential election. It’s all a matter of perception , more than anything else.

And unfortunately for the program the audacity and the stupidity shown by the Athletics Department in extending coach Charlie Weis’ contract. It has only gone to show that common sense and rationale , went completely out of the window. Weis’ record when measured against that of his predecessor Ty Willingham is only marginally better. And on the recruiting front , to put it mildly . Weis as a recruiter, certainly isn’t all he’s been cracked up to be !

Much is expected of the program this season under Weis. And all of the ballyhoo and hooplah that has been forthcoming from the erstwhile fans, boosters and alumni of the Fighting Irish. That being said, should they even finish with a sub-par record , they’ll still try and explain it away with the numerous excuses that we’ve come to know from these all too over bearing and rambunctious fans. They’d have you still believing that ‘Touchdown Jesus’ still looks down and smiles upon them. But the truth of the matter is , neither God or Jesus likes ugly ! And as long as The Irish continue to play the brand of football that they’ve been playing under Weis, they never will !

Buckeyes' coach Jim Tressel picture appears courtesy of ap/photo ................

The Ohio State Buckeyes are great for college football . As too are Oklahoma Sooners . But that’s where all of the accolades and applause should stop. As great as both programs appear to be . And once again it’s all about perception , more than anything else. How often have we heard the ludicrous predictions of the Buckeyes’ fans as to how great their season will be ? Only for it all to come crumbling down around their ears. And then, all we tend to hear from them is the constant asinine whining as to the fact that their real inherent problems lay elsewhere.

Big Ten Conference football , as good, as the pundits make it out to be. Much of it, is predicated on offense and very little else. Far too often their teams are found wanting when it comes to defense. And hell, let’s not even touch on the fact that when it comes to athleticism , even the members of The Golden Girls , well those who are still alive could teach many of their players a thing or two.

And whilst no one ought to discount the prestige and esteem with which the program is held amongst collegiate football. One can also can allude to the fact that when they’ve fallen from grace. Their fans all too quickly tend to become as silent and as docile as a church mouse. Though no one questions the character of their great coach, Jim Tressel , and the authority with which he’s led the program. His teams have played for the national championship, three times, having won their lone title under his reign in 2002 , defeating Miami Hurricanes 31-24 .

And while we can be appreciative of the players that’ve played for the Buckeyes and then have gone on to make a career for themselves within the NFL . It’s got to be said that the program and hype placed around in recent times. In reality it as much as it’s said to have going for it. There’s also a great deal that one can detract from it. One , the reverence with which the program is held , though unabashedly forthright and proud. The skill-set of many of its players aren’t as great as they would have you believe. And that’d be most definitely be true of the players churned off their productively lines over the last five years. But then again one can allude to the fact that in some cases it’ll take a player up to five years to acclimatize to the rigors of the NFL.

Terrelle Pryor (2) ,quarterback of Ohio State seen here playing against Troy St in a game at Columbus Stadium in Ohio in 2008. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus .................

That being said it’s not so much about the players that depart from the program. But where the program now stands . Under Tressel , he’s gone about doing things the right way. Insomuch as a coach is allowed to do in this day and age without falling afoul of many of the idiotic idioms of the NCAA and its recruiting guidelines. But it shouldn’t escape the fact that when great things have been expected of the Buckeyes of late. They’ve fallen flat with the speed of a missile descending from the sky having missed its trajectory completely. Whether or not that has been from the fact of poor coaching or the mere fact that their players have underachieved. That can be open to debate and a great deal of speculation. I, for one just tend to think of it as nothing more than the usual proverbial hype that tends to be lofted upon the shoulders of those who tend to be not worthy of it , at all !

Picks And Pans ………

Maurice Clarett , now there’s a name I’d rather not hear ! Over-hyped, enabled by all within the Ohio State’s athletics program. Having squandered, what many thought was once a promising college career. The Buckeyes’ running back felt that he was ready for the NFL as a sophomore entrant at the next level, in terms of his football career. He sought to challenge the NFL’s age eligibility entrance requirements. Having failed in that endeavor, Clarett’s ambitions spiraled downards and headed south. Next thing we knew , the former Buckeye had ran afoul of the law and he then sought to blame others for the poor choices that he’d made.

Clarett seen here making a phone call while in prison. The former Buckeye sought his early release but has since requested the state Parole Board to rescind the request. The player still feels that upon his release , he'll have something to offer the NFL as a player. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Michell Mayhew .....................

Granted , one has to be accountable for one’s actions but at the same time , I’ve a question to ask. What is it that Clarett apparently learned whilst in college ? Other than being there, on an apparent football scholarship. It’d appear that the player forsook all the privileges made available to him. Now an inmate within the state penal system in Ohio . Clarett recently tried an appeal to the state parole board in order to gain his early relase. Misguided as Clarett is , he’s still under the impression that he’s got something to offer to the NFL. From my point of view , that’s akin to Paris Hilton stating that she’d be a suitable candidate to be the next Professor Emeritus at Yale or Harvard. On both levels, Hilton and Clarett share the same sort of personas. They’re both of the opinion that they’re talented and have something to offer to the world. As to what that might be , I’d leave that up for you to decide.

Jason Bartlett (right) gets the high five from teammate Evan Longoria after the player had hit a home run in the Rays' 6-4 defeat of the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field , St Petersburg, Florida. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris O'Meara ....................

Last night , the Tampa Bay Rays (60-48) took the second of two games, in a two game series against the Boston Red Sox (62-44) . That being said, the Rays are still behind the 8 ball in terms of garnering a wild card berth as an entrant into the postseason. They’re now equal with the Texas Rangers percentage points’ wise and are three games behind the venerable Boston Red Sox. Their only hope now may lie in the fact that the Red Sox now face a do or die series against the AL East division leading, New York Yankees . Should the Sox then fall there, then it’s create something of a respite for the Rays as to their long term ambitions might appear , as to the remainder of the season. As good as they appear to have been playing at present . It has been their inconsistency to win back to back series regularly, that has primarily harmed their chances and that has placed them in the predicament that they now find themselves in.

Rays' DH Pat Burrell smiles as he leaves the field alongside the team's third base coach Tom Foley. Burrell had just hit a sixth inning home run off Red Sox pitcher Brad Penny . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris O'Meara ....................

Rays’ coach, Joe Maddon , has to have been satisfied as of late with the play of his All Stars, Carl Crawford , Evan Longoria and in particular Jason Bartlett . This trio, seemed to have epitomized what this team has been about as of late. On the pitching front , it has been Matt Garza and James Shields , that’ve borne the brunt of the work. But for the unfortunate Shields , he’s never gotten the run support needed when he’s gone and out and pitched a gem of a game for the team. The batters have let him down , all too often !

Rays' pitcher David Price delivers a pitch during the first inning of the game played against the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field in St Petersburg. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris O'Meara ........................

As the season now reaches the stage, where teams will now have to be at their level best. It remains to be seen whether or not the Tampa Bay Rays are able to replicate the success of last year and go one step further and perhaps win the World Series . It’s makes for an interesting prospect don’t you think ?

Vick seen here on his to court in Virginia stemming from his indictment on illegal dogfighting and illegal gambling charges. The player recently finished serving two years in a Federal penitentiary in Leavenworth Kansas. He now hopes to resume his career in the NFL. But still has to serve four game suspension as part of the re-instatement process. He also has the alternative of signing with an UFL team , rather than awaiting to play in the NFL. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Paul Taylor ..........................

As Michael Vick looks to make his comeback within the NFL . Already having been re-instated , he’s still now under suspension , courtesy of the NFL’s commissioner , Roger Goodell . There may well be, one or two teams around the league intrigued to see what the player may well have to offer to a franchise , by way of his play. That being said , two years away from the game , all of the rust and then returning back to a physical regimen won’t shake off the lethargy that the player’ll no doubt posssess. But it appears that the NFC South’s Carolina Panthers as well as the Green Bay Packers are indeed keen to see what Vick might be able to do for their respective franchises. Albeit, that the John Fox coached Panthers, still has Jake Delhomme doing the signal calling for the team. What we have come to realize, is that despite the enigma that Vick is said to be as a player. When he’s on the field of play , there is something that’s electrifying about him. He may well be one of a handful of players , who when they’re in a game , can seemingly make the impossible happen, that can change the complete course and outcome of a game.

As to the Packers , one now must wonder what may well be going across the mind of Aaron Rodgers ? Will be he pull a Jay Cutler on Mike McCarthy ? And clearly one would’ve thought after the team’s distastrous handling of the Brett Favre saga. This’d be the last thing that they would want landing on their plate, within the midst of the Packer faithful. I guess that they’d better call in former White House Press Secretaries to Presidents’ George W Bush and Bill Clinton , in Dee Dee Myers and Ari Fleischer . At least those two , know how to handle any blowback that might and any type of turmoil that’s liable to take place . They’re very well versed in dealing with the media. Which is more than can be said of McCarthy and the Packers’ hierarchy.

However, the unfortunate thing for most fans of the NFL , is the mere fact that we’ve never seen Vick produce that sort of a performance at the professional ranks , much less at the college level. Granted , his career has been built around his exceptional physical abilities and athleticism. But when was the last time you actually saw or even remember Vick playing and leading a team with a great deal of authority ? You may well need to have the memory of an elephant to in-fact go back that far. In reality, it has been few and far between for the player. And in terms of his performances on the field as a professional.

Vick seen here playing for the Atlanta Falcons looks to evade the Eagles' defensive player Sean Considine in a game played at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia in December of 2006. picture appears courtesy of getty images / Jim McIsaac .........................

Now should Vick return to the NFL , it may or may well not be at his desired option of being a quarterback. One way or another however, his return will be welcomed by some . But in other circles, it’ll be looked upon as just another self indulgent star being granted another oppportunity after seemingly being unable to be cognisant of what’s right from what is indeed wrong . Nevermind, the fact that as an adult he was unable to admit to his actions when first asked. We may well be asked to be a forgiving society and in particular of those we believe to be deserving of a second chance. But are we actually able to really forgive someone who from the very onset made a choice on all accounts , he knew to be wrong ?

The Clock Is Ticking And It’s Gator Time

Well coming off a heralded season of triumph , acclaim by their multitude of fans and the panacea of the collegiate football world . The University of Florida (Gators) are riding on the crest of a wave. And even more so that they’d won a second College National Football Championship, having posted a 13-1 record for the season. Albeit, that there were many who felt that the Gators weren’t deemed worthy to be playing for the BCS National Championship . Congress we can hear you, but it’s falling on deaf ears.

Florida Gators' player Tim Tebow , the Heisman Trophy and twice national championship winning quarterback. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mattew Ronson .....................................

And the Southeastern Conference (SEC) now has the legitimacy that many have felt wasn’t deserving. The conference if anything is amongst the most competitive in all of collegiate football. Though there are those who feel that the Big Ten , Big 12 and Pac-10 conferences are more deserving of that accolade. But then again as they say …….’ beauty is in the eye of the beholder.’ And the beauty of it is , that the SEC has been the dominant conference in collegiate football over the past six years plus.

And whilst the conference has its detractors, it also has its admirers. The team to be admired at present has to be the Florida Gators. And with the heroics of their Heisman Trophy winning quarterback , Tim Tebow , at the helm. This team has reigned supreme atop of collegiate football. But none of this would’ve been possible without the program’s most successful coach by way of national championships , in Urban Meyer . He’s been the consummate professional as a coach and his players and coaching staff have bought into his ideas, which’ve proven to be extremely successful.

Gators' coach Urban Meyer who has won two national championships at the helm of the Gators' progam as its coach. picture appears courtesy of afp/photo/ Mario Casales..................

And while many were surprised that Tebow chose to return for his junior year. It wasn’t much of a surprise to the real devoted fans of the program. And for Tebow as far as he was concerned . He felt that he had some unfinished business. Be that as it may, the team is now viewed as the prohibitive and preseason favorites to make it back for another major BCS Bowl appearance. But the Bowl of preference would have to be the BCS National Championship.

Florida quarterbacks John Brantley (12) and Tim Tebow (15) congratulate each other after the team's emphatic 63-5 win over Kentucky in a game played in Gainesville , Florida,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Phil Sandlin .......................

This offseason for the program it was about retooling their roster. And having lost several players to the NFL . It was viewed that the team would be in for something of a jolt. But it remains to seen as to how they’ll fare this upcoming season. Their recruiting can be viewed again as being amongst the best that the program has had under Meyer’s tenure . And that’s above all a credit to him and his renowned coaching staff. They’ve been meticulous in assessing their needs and going out and obtaining the best talent available to them. With the prestige of having won two national championships , it certainly makes it all the more enticing for any potential recruit to this esteemed program.

But as of now it’s going to be about the Gators and how they’ll go about in defense of their national title and their aspirations for this upcoming season. And the ‘Tebow watch’ is on. Can this young , prolific quarterback possibly win a second Heisman Trophy and alongside that raise an unprecedented third national title as a player ?

However while the nation’s eyes may well be on Tim Tebow. It’ll be interesting to see what use will be made of his backup in John Brantley . For as the Tebow era will most certainly draw to a close. Brantley will be entrusted with stepping into the shoes of his esteemed teammate. And for Urban Meyer much of that trust will come into being this season. Tebow may well be the heartbeart and vocal leader of this team. But under his presence this season , Brantlely will have to learn his craft diligently from Tim Tebow.

The one two punch , running attack of Jeffrey Demps and Chris Rainey at work for the Florida Gators.

And while Brantley will be earnerstly learning from Tebow as any young protoge’ would be expected to do. One has to also look at the roster of this Gators’ team to see from where their next stars will emerge. With the loss of wideout Percy Harvin to the NFL. One would expect that there’ll be someone expected to come to the fore. It’ll now be incumbent on the likes of Jeffrey Demps , Chris Rainey , Brandon Spikes , Riley Cooper and Rick Burgess provide the arsenal behind this team’s prolific offense. Nevermind, that Tebow , himself, will look to don his Captain America facade and lead by example on the offensive side of things.

Brandon Spikes (51) of the University of Florida makes a timely interception in the game played LSU in Gainesville , Fla,. picture appears courtesy of The Gainesville Sun/ Brandon Kruse ....................

As prolific as the Gators’ offense can be. Its defense when called upon has proven that they’re up to the task when called upon. The defense with Brandon Hicks and Ryan Stamper will be looked at , to provide the fulcrum to an already stout wall of inpenetrability. While we know that the SEC will provide a stiff challenge as to the ambitions of the Florida Gators this season. Wherein the challenges are likely to be provided by LSU and Alabama within the conference.

Brandon Spikes (51) of the University of Florida makes a timely interception in the game played LSU in Gainesville , Fla,. picture appears courtesy of The Gainesville Sun/ Brandon Kruse ....................

On the national stage those posing a challenge to the Gators’ supremacy will come from the likely usual suspects. The always steadfast USC Trojans of the Pac-10 , from within the Big 12, Texas , Oklahoma and Oklahoma State . From within the Big 10 we’re liable to see Penn St and Ohio State out to prove a point. And that point will be something to usrup the dominance of the Florida Gators who at present reign supreme atop of the world of collegiate football. It will be very interesting to see what transpires once the season begins to unfold. If nothing else in only see how well the Gators acquit themselves against the teams mentioned.

We’ll either end up seeing history being made as the Florida Gators sets about on this monumental task. And as alluded to earlier , where much of their success will be at the behest of Tebow’s performance this upcoming season. Theirs is a season that’s to be reckoned with as to their supporters’ and that of the team’s aspirations.
And for coach Urban Meyer the ensuing success that has already been achieved , having already added to his legacy. Triumph once again, this upcoming season would place him alongside the modern era giants of coaching within the college game.

So let’s see what awaits the Gators as the 2009-10 beckons. The voiciferous fans of the Gator Nation are indeed a force to be reckoned with. And their unwavering support for the team , is as always to be commended. Come what may , we can’t argue as to the success that the program has achieved.

_________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________