Roger Goodell: Good or Evil?

Since Roger Goodell took over as Commissioner of the NFL, he has been a polarizing figure, splitting people almost evenly on their opinion of him. His proponents point out that he has cleaned up the image of the league, instituting harsher penalties for off-field transgressions and on-field performance-enhancing drug use. He has overseen the largest financial boom in the league to date, and has explored opportunities oversees with expansion, and at the very least, bringing the game to a larger audience. His detractors claim that his position wields too much power for one person to have; that he is overpaid for his responsibilities, and in extreme cases, that he favors stars and specifically, white stars over black stars (see the Michael Vick case & Chad Johnson's fines as opposed to Brett Favre).

Each of these positions have some merit (minus, in my opinion, the racial argument). I would suggest, however, that Goodell has been largely good for the league. That does not mean that I agree with everything he has done - quite the opposite. Among my complaints about Goodell are that he strung out the Michael Vick case too long (just make a suspension for a set number of games, don't do anything 'indefinite'), his 18-game proposal is bad for the league, especially in the face of overwhelming support contrary, that league suspensions SHOULD come from a committee, of which he has the tie-breaking vote, not just from him as one person, and, finally, some of the new rules he is pushing through the Rules Committee are just plain stupid. With that said, just because I disagree with Goodell on these issues, however, doesn't mean he's a bad commissioner. I, for one, love how he has cleaned up the NFL's image. Have you noticed that you see a lot less news stories about NFL players being arrested, or that players are less likely to taunt after a score, or that players that do get arrested are generally learning their lesson faster? I think this is essential for the league to continue to be the center of American sports. I don't want to watch a bunch of thugs; I want to watch athletes. I think that part of being an American athlete IS to serve your community and make it better with the resources at your disposal. Goodell has spearheaded the NFL Play60 campaign, which is essential in encouraging the youth of America to get up and be active, which in turn will make for a healthier population, and help to drive down healthcare costs.

Yes, I think it's fair to say that I'll voice my support against Goodell for many of the things he is bringing to the league, but just like a President of the United States, if you're intelligent, you're not going to agree with EVERYTHING he does. The question should be, do you think he's making the league better as a whole? Do you think somebody could do better? If so, why? Keep in mind, nobody is going to be perfect.

Final 4

I apologize for my tardiness. The Final 4 is set and for the first time in 13 years my alma mater Kentucky will take part. I am still on a Jorts high as Josh Harrellson has become a man! MAZEL TOV!!I thought about making the trip to Houston to hang out with the BBN but instead will head to Mecca err i mean Lexington to celebrate. But i didn't need to post for you to know I am happy and want the Cats to win. However I do believe the CATS will fall on Saturday. I pick Uconn to win the title 3 weeks ago for a reason. Kemba is the best and most clutch player in America. I just cant shake the image of the Huskies killing UK in Maui a few months ago. I know UK is a much different and Better team but so is Uconn. Prove me wrong guys, oh what I would give to be proven wrong. I like Butler in the other game. VCU is a wild card and I don't know what to expect from them. So Shaka will not be Shocking the world. Ill take Uconn in the title game Monday night. Now I know with this prediction I will hear it from a few of my fellow BBN members. If my fandom is put into question I will rip off your lips and wash my ass with them!! To Much? Anyway you get the point. I would gladly give up the 500 bones I win through bracket polls if Uconn wins to see UK raise a championship banner. So I will be sure to take some pics of Lexington after the Cats win. Celebration will be epic!!! Im off to watch the McD's game, aka the 2011-12 UK preview scrimmage.
Oh yea, I'm supposed to give Kennedy credit for picking one game right for a change. This from a guy who calls himself NostraKennedy or whatever. So there ya go

Overkill? I Think Not! Week 8

Jake Locker
QB
Washington
Height- 6'3
Weight- 228

2008- Yrds-2800,CMP% 58.2,TD 21, INT 11, Sack 28,Rush Yrd 388, Rush TD 7
2009- Yrds-2265,CMP% 55.4,TD 17, INT 9, Sack 19,Rush Yrd 385, Rush TD 6

Jake Locker was to be the #1 Overall pick in last years NFL Draft. He learned the same lesson Matt Leinart did. Sometimes more is less. The longer you stick around the college game the more people pick your game apart. I however still think Jake Locker will be more than a successful NFL QB. Jake has the arm, size, and athleticism to be a Donovan McNabb like double threat QB. He just had minimal team success in college as far as winning games. This because he decided to stay at home in Washington. Locker has definitely slipped to a 2nd round pick. Seattle will pick him if he is there. But I'm hoping my Cincinnati Bengals take him in round 2 after taking A J Green in round 1. But pre usual the Bengals seem to do nothing I want in the draft. Under the right system I believe the drop in draft status helps Locker. He will go to a winning team and have time to learn. This of coarse is untrue if the Bengals take him. I think the well publicized down fall of Jake is well over blown and someone will get a steal.

Bracket Pool Standings

Forgive me for not posting the standings until now. I won't be in the money so I don't care anymore. HOWEVA...three of you will be, so let's break it down. For starters, those in the money are locked up. Now we are just waiting to see who will win what. Listed below are the current standings with their point totals up to the Final 4, possible points, and champion. Current Standings:

1. 1st John Laz-71pts, 87pts, KU


2. 2nd Ben Northern-67pts-115pts-UK


3. 3rd Kyle Brown-63pts-111pts-UCONN

Laz and Kyle have the Cayuts making the Final 4 and playing UCONN. Both have UCONN beating UK, real cool guys. I better not see a single grin Saturday night if UK falls to UCONN out of you two. If I can't have hundreds of dollars thrown at me to soften the wound that would be UK losing to Jim Calhoun in the Final Four, then no one should. So it's as simple as this, if UK wins Saturday night, Benjamin Northern will finish in 1st place, followed by Laz and then Kyle in 3rd. If UCONN wins Saturday, Ben automatically drops to 3rd place. So if UCONN wins then, Kyle will need for UCONN TO WIN THE TITLE to win the bracket whereas Laz will need for UCONN TO LOSE THE TITLE in order hold off Mr. Brown. Easy as pie, right? I'm still waiting on money from a few of you, please send it my way.

I'm so excited...I'm so excited...I'm far from being scared

Saved by the Bell people, c'mon. My guess...probably designed by Jared Sullinger now that he doesn't have to spend time preparing for the NBA draft after being bullied by Josh Harrelson last night. Imagine what Dwight Howard would do to him, or Demarcus Cousins for that matter. SWEET FREAKIN JESUS, last night was awesome. You've read all of the better prepared and more informative post game articles already so no point in trying here. However, I will say it is rare to see UK as a true underdog and pull out a game they aren't expected to win. It wasn't beating Duke to go to the Final Four, after being down 18 points in '98, but it doesn't get much closer. I am extremely proud to say this is 'my team'. I SOOO wish I could see the grungy truck driver from the gas station that I met yesterday. Wearing his Ohio State shirt, the obviously well-educated gentleman approached me in my UK track jacket (no surprise there) to tell me, "Yer boys gonna get dere sh*t messed up tanight". There was a smile on his face so I didn't take it to heart and then he told me he was actually nervous, not because we're just a team of freshman, but because 'it's Kentucky'. I declined to continue in the conversation. To the grungy truck driver, where ever you may be, I hope your CB radio didn't drown out the sound of 'yer boys' laying an egg. All of that being said, I didn't expect the Cayuts to win last night, thought they could, but just didn't see it. ESPN told me they couldn't so... And with that being said, I fully expect UK to seek revenge on the overrated and over seeded Tar Heels. UK may be a better match up for UNC than is UNC for UK, but I can't envision this team's metaphorical chip on their shoulder getting any smaller. Last time these two teams met in December, both teams played rather atrocious. While North Carolina has improved and gained confidence after their embarrassing finish to last season, so have the Cats. Aroldis Chapman, I mean Josh Harrelson, had 4 points and 7 rebounds in their last meeting. Tyler Zeller's game is more finesse than muscle, unlike Jared Sullinger's which allowed Jorts to be more physical than he probably can be against Zeller. Even still, I think the game plan stays the same, give their shooters no looks and trust Harrelson can keep Fuzzy Zeller in check. Cats win by 7, sending them on to a long overdue trip to the Final Four. Who would've thought that this year's team might go that far and last year's did not. Just imagine if they freed Enes...

Anyways, this was not supposed to be a post game/pregame post. Remember that Division II basketball program, Oregon, and their new gaudy court? Well thanks to reader Robby Alcorn sending me the link, here are a few more innovative designs that you may see coming to an arena near you http://donahuemediagroup.com/2011/02/new-court-designs/. And in honor of Mr. Alcorn and to quote Coach Pitino, "Take a look if you have 15 seconds to kill".

23 hours.....

Bracket Poll Update Sweet 16

This picture doesn't have Jason or Brady in it but I thought It was appropriate because I have a trophy in my hand. I know Brady is in charge of the 1st annual BS NCAA Bracket Poll but hes a little distracted this week (get better TK) so I figured Id give the update on which of us you should trust in the future. I'm in last currently but don't go jumping out of any windows yet. You should not be worried because I have the best possible score remaining. The only Final Four team I lost was Pitt. I'm pretty sure most people were hurt by Pitt. Once again proving nothing good comes form that city(Coach Cal being the exception that proves the rule). Thanks again Butler. My Final 4 remaining Uconn,UK,and Kansas. So when UK beats Ohio St and Uconn beats Duke on Saturday I will run away with the money. Dollar Dollar Bill Y'all!. Now Jason is currently ahead of me and Brady but with 2 final 4 teams left and 1 of those being Wisconsin i think he will be struggling this time next week. Jason is playing the role of the Big East, don't believe the hype (BOOM ROASTED). Now Brady is a little more in my league with 3 Final 4 teams left (uconn, ohio st, Kansas). But Brady is like Jimmer, nice story but no staying power. So i guess who comes out ahead will come down to if UK beats Ohio St and if Uconn wins the title or not.Or Wisconsin will actually find away to score more than 40 points and Jason will win.I know ridiculous right. So pretty much just give me the title.

Overkill? I Think Not! Week 7

Derrick Locke
RB
Kentucky
Height- 5'9
Weight- 190


2007- Attempts-94 Yards-521 AVG-5.5 TD-5
2008- Attempts-63 Yards-303 AVG-4.8 TD-1
2009- Attempts-195 Yards-907 AVG-4.7 TD-6
2010- Attempts-166 Yards-887 AVG-5.3 TD-10

Ive watched Locke be an impact player in the SEC for 4 years. He has world class speed and showed it at the NFL combine running a 4.29 40 yard dash. People would question him because he came to UK as a track guy and is obviously a smaller dude. I think he has proven he can handle the contact as a smaller guy by playing in the SEC for 4 years. Locke was banged up his senior year and missed 4 games. Which makes his stats that more impressive. Locke will be more of a situation guy in the NFL so I don't see injuries being a problem. Compare him directly to Darren Sporles. A change of pace back that can be used on special teams. Locke returned 2 kickoffs while at Kentucky. He also showed the ability to catch the ball out of the back field with over 800 yards over his career. Locke was a great blocker on third downs in college but will have to prove this on the pro level. Locke wont get draft early but is a player to watch in the future. He will be one of those late round wonders.Plus I had to give my Kentucky man some love.

NHL Eastern Conference Playoff Preview

Greetings! Apologies for my rather extended absence from Bottle Service, but I'm back and pumped for March Madness, NHL Playoffs, and the NFL Labor Negoti....oh...right...well then, seeing as March Madness is in full swing, let's take a look at the NHL Playoffs, which are set to start in less than a month. Today we'll look at the Eastern Conference. The standings as of today are as follows:

EASTERN		GP	W	L	OTL	PTS	ROW	SOW	SOL	HOME	ROAD	GF	GA	DIFF	L10	STRK
1	Philadelphia	71	44	19	8	96	41	3	4	21-10-4	23-9-4	228	190	+38	4-4-2	Won 1
2	Washington	73	42	21	10	94	39	3	5	22-8-7	20-13-3	198	176	+22	9-1-0	Won 1
3	Boston	71	39	22	10	88	37	2	5	16-12-5	23-10-5	213	175	+38	4-3-3	Lost 2
4	Pittsburgh	72	41	23	8	90	36	5	3	22-13-2	19-10-6	208	177	+31	5-3-2	Lost 1
5	Tampa Bay	72	39	22	11	89	33	6	6	22-9-5	17-13-6	214	217	-3	2-4-4	Lost 2
6	Montreal	73	40	26	7	87	37	3	3	22-9-6	18-17-1	200	185	+15	7-3-0	Won 1
7	NY Rangers	73	39	30	4	82	31	8	2	17-16-3	22-14-1	215	179	+36	6-4-0	Won 4
8	Buffalo	72	35	28	9	79	30	5	1	16-16-4	19-12-5	214	208	+6	5-3-2	Lost 1
	Carolina	72	33	29	10	76	29	4	5	19-12-4	14-17-6	201	214	-13	4-5-1	Won 1
	Toronto	73	32	31	10	74	28	4	5	17-14-7	15-17-3	192	225	-33	5-4-1	Won 1
	New Jersey	72	34	34	4	72	31	3	1	18-15-3	16-19-1	154	182	-28	7-3-0	Won 1
	Atlanta	72	30	30	12	72	26	4	7	16-14-7	14-16-5	202	238	-36	5-4-1	Lost 1
	Florida	72	29	33	10	68	25	4	5	15-15-8	14-18-2	182	198	-16	3-4-3	Lost 1
	NY Islanders	73	28	33	12	68	24	4	5	16-15-5	12-18-7	203	233	-30	5-1-4	Won 1
	Ottawa	72	27	36	9	63	26	1	4	13-19-5	14-17-4	164	223	-59	6-4-0	Won 2

Everyone is safe except for the Rangers and the Sabres, who still have work to do to solidify their spots in the playoffs. If you ask me, you're looking at the current playoff lineup as-is now, but Carolina, Toronto, and yes, even New Jersey still could make that final push. The strongest team throughout the season has been Philadelphia, and despite their recent struggles, they have to be considered the favorite in the East. The hottest team is the 2nd-place Washington Capitals, who seem to be peaking at the right time, but until this team proves they can put together a solid playoff performance, they are suspect. Boston is currently in 3rd place, and 1st in the Northeast Division, but this might not be true for long, as Montreal is almost as hot as the Capitals, and are making the Bruins sweat heading down the stretch. If you ask me, Montreal is just as dangerous as Boston, and these two teams boast the two best goalies in the conference in Carey Price and Tim Thomas. I will admit that I don't much like the Penguins, but personal feelings aside, this team has no realistic shot at the Stanley Cup without Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on the ice. Malkin is done for the season, and Crosby still hasn't played since sustaining a concussion in the game after the Winter Classic on New Year's Day. Even if Crosby does rejoin the team during the playoffs, I don't see them making it past the first round. The Rangers and Sabres are interesting teams. They have been on roller coaster rides throughout the season, and nobody quite knows how they'll perform in the playoffs (if they make it). I'm always one to look for the dark horse coming out of the bottom of the playoff standings, but this year, in the Eastern Conference, the top teams should reign supreme. It all depends on match-ups of course, but I would look for Philadelphia, Washington, Boston, or Montreal to come out of the East to compete for the Stanley Cup, with emphasis on Philadelphia and Washington. Boston and Montreal may very well face each other in the first round, necessarily eliminating one of them early. Philadelphia and Washington, on the other hand, wouldn't meet until the conference finals, as the NHL re-seeds during the playoffs. Coming soon, Western Conference analysis.

Jim Rome's Take on "Bracket Guy"

KB's world Famous Bracket Breakdown

OK maybe my NCAA bracket analysis isn't "world famous" yet, but I'm calling it that anyway so just deal with it. Theres many ways I could go about this but at the risk of tooting my own horn Ill go region by region. I'm a bit cocky since I called Kemba winning 5 games in 5 days (and ignoring the fact I just said "tooting" and "cocky"). Lets start with the East


EAST REGION
As many of the "experts' have already said on TV this is the toughest region. The committee did Ohio St no favors. This is the Rainbow Road of regions (That's right a MarioKart reference). I wont go pick for pick but here are the highlights. Clemson with a classic 12 over 5 upset beating WVU. I'm almost sorry to call this one. I would love some revenge on Huggie Bear for knocking my "UK Wildcats" out last year. But I think Huggins reverts back to his old Cincinnati ways of losing early in the tournament (sorry Nation if that was a cheap shot). The game to watch in the 1st round is Washington v. Georgia. I got the Huskies in this one but don't be surprised if this goes into overtime. And in overtime you got to love Isiah Thomas. Washington has made the Sweet 16 two years running, tough tournament team. COLD BLOODED!

Down to the real business at hand. At risk of being called a complete and udder homer I have the 4 seed Kentucky Wildcats making it through to Houston. If you have talked to me at all this year Ive been saying UK matches up great with the Buckeyes. There personnel is interchangeable and the Cats are possibly the hottest team coming into the field. Neither team is deep and both have freshman point guards. The big difference in my mind is Sullinger cant guard Terrance Jones. Jones has the ability to get a rebound and go coast to coast. Sullinger cant run with Jones. I am not a Lauderdale fan and think Jorts (Josh Harrleson) will eat him alive all game. I think UK has the defenders to shut down Diebler just enough to pull off the upset. Still not convinced? Another SEC team Tennessee, knocked out Ohio St last year and that was with Evan Turner. I personally don't think Ohio St is better this year than they were last year. I have UK beating Syracuse in the Regional final.

WEST REGION
Surprisingly Duke did not get a walk over to the final four this year. Weird I know. Now the #2 seed SDSU isn't much to worry about but my main man Kemba is, as seen here

I'm not scared that he and the rest of the Huskies will be out of gas after there epic run in the Big East. Kemba knocks out Duke in the regional final, with or with out Irving. The game to watch in the first round is Michigan v, Tennessee. Tennessee has the talent to beat Duke in the second round. But they are as big of a headcase as any team. Who knows if they will show up or not. Side note don't be shocked if Penn St slips into the Sweet 16. I'm not picking it either, but im putting you on notice. Also sorry Nation your Cincy Boocats get ousted by Mizzou in the first round.

SOUTHWEST REGION
Kansas is untrustworthy as the #1 seed but I do have them going to the final four. I'm not confident in them at all. Kansas get upset more than Paris Hilton gets laid. Kansas gets upset more than Bill Simmons tweets. Kansas gets upset more than JJ Redick gets crossed over.

Kansas gets upset more than well you get the idea. I like Louisville to give the Jayhawks a run in the round of 16. Purdue loses in the regional final. Hummel-less again, Purdue I feel ya. Not to sound like a hater but the chance of a giant upset here is Morehead St over Louisville. Now again I'm not picking it either. The lesser KY school has a beast on the inside and that's Louisville weakness. If Louisville isn't making there 3's watch out. Game of this region will be the Notre Dame Purdue in the sweet 16.

SOUTHEAST REGION

This is the Aqua-Man of regions. This is the weakest region of all. Pitt should walk to Jamie Dixon's first final four. But while Pitt is dancing on through look for everything else to go to hell. Florida is the most over seeded team in the tourney and will get bested by Izzo in round 2. Florida is a good team but soft. Utah St and Belmont both win a game to face off in the 2nd round. BYU makes it through to the 2nd weekend where Izzo again gets the best of someone. Regional Final is Pitt over Izzo. Personal rooting interest that I'm not picking is St John's. My main man Lavin has the Johnnies up and running. I would love to see them go one a run. ODU and Butler will be a slug-fest in the 8-9 game.

RECAP
Final 4- Kentucky,UConn,Kansas,Pitt
Runner up- Kansas
Champion- Kemba errr Uconn

Overkill? I think not! Week 6

Akeem Ayers
LB
UCLA
Height- 6'4
Weight-255
Career Stats
Tackles-177
Forced Fumbles-2
Interceptions-6

Lets take a fiver from our brackets and look at the best Linebacker coming to the NFL next year (assuming we actually have a season). Akeem Ayers is just a straight up beast. Don't let the fact that he played at a non-glamour school fool you. This guy is Brain Crushing 2.0. Almost identical stats as Cushing at a lesser program, Ayers nabbed 6 interceptions at UCLA. He has the motor of Cushing with twice the athleticism. When you match that with his ability to run a defense like Ricky Bobby drives his #26 Wonder bread car (of coarse I mean before he went all sheen on us and drove like my grandma in her underwear), Akeem is a cant miss. I look for him to go 1st rnd to either the Chiefs or Buccaneers. If he slips the Jets would gladly take him.

HEAD-SCRATCHAAA!?

Okay, so everyone has gotten over/reasoned with/and finally, agrees that the NCAA got it right again by placing UK as a 4 seed and Florida a 2 seed, right? Good, let's move to the rest of the bracket. So the selection committee doesn't put much emphasis on the conference tournament, but more so, the body of work by a given team throughout the season. UCONN is a three seed. I don't have a big problem with that because even though they did struggle for about a month, their wins are very impressive and what they did in the Big East tournament is near unimaginable, unless your name is Kyle Brown, who predicted this in his previous post. Nice work paaartnar...Since UCONN beat Texas during the regular season, I believe that is what bumped the Longhorns down to join the Cats as a 4 seed which moved UCONN to the three. Would you say their run through the tournament helped them move up dramatically? Syracuse, a 3 seed, had lost 6 of 8 games through the end of January and into February. Syracuse, a 3 seed, has only Michigan St. or Michigan to claim as their best nonconference win. Syracuse, a 3 seed, also lost their first conference tournament game. I guess the selection committee was looking at last year's resume by "mistake". Villanova's in the tournament again this year as a 9 seed. They have won 5 games in 15 tries since mid-January...I'm getting even more irritated as I write, but probably not as much as Louisville fan who watched their Cardinals fall from a 2 seed to a 4 seed because they don't have Patrick Sparks. Sorry, I had too...Dan Mink's Boocats came in at a 6 seed, which is proooobably a spot or two too high given their out of conference schedule, but who cares...You have to be a 4 seed or better to win the championship anyways, right?....Leaving the Big East, San Diego St got the 2 and BYU got the 3. Interesting that they didn't use the whole season's body of work, where they would find BYU soundly beating San Diego St. twice, but since BYU developed their honor code during the Old Testament, they aren't worthy of a 2 seed anymore. This happened to the Cats as well in 08' after Patterson went down (Meeks was also injured that whole season as a friendly reminder for the haters). Finally, UNC and Florida......., both are losers in the second round with the Heels losing for only the 2nd time when playing in North Carolina against UK's recruiting scouts, Washington, and Florida gets out coached by Izzo (who argue ably shouldn't even be in the tournament). Not that UK should be a 2 seed, but they sure as hell deserve it more than Florida, along with many more. Most every year after the selection show, I'm always left feeling angry and confused, but never has the best Sunday in March had me reaching for my Head n' Shoulders like this year's. It's quite a head-scratcha...

Bottle Service Presents: 2011 Men's Basketball Bracket Challenge

Alright folks, this year's tournament is going to be ran by yours truly. It's going to be $10 per person and I MUST HAVE THE MONEY BY THURSDAY (If you are mailing a check, it must be postmarked by Thursday and make it out to 'Brady Kennedy' and 'Bracket Fee' for the memo) IN ORDER FOR YOUR BRACKET TO COUNT. I can't accept 'yea, I'll get it to ya' because I'll never get after you're eliminated by Friday evening. Payouts will be 75%, 20%, and 5% which will be determined once everyone has paid. Mail cash/checks to Brady Kennedy @ 7355 Blackstone Dr. Florence, KY 41042. Text, email, or post on here that you plan to participate so I can keep an eye out for your money. To submit a bracket, go to http://bottleservice.mayhem.cbssports.com/e and the Group Name Intro-Bottle Service Presents:, the Group Name-2011 NCAA Tournament Bracket, the Group Abbreviation-BottleService, and the password-calpal. Invite whoever you would like. It's always more fun to have the Jimbos and Warrens of the world take part. I want to make this the biggest pool that you're involved in which may not be too hard since every business seems to be putting the kibosh on office pools. Standings will be posted the Sunday night after each weekend. If you need anything, call me @ 859-468-6292 or email me @ brady.kennedy@dayton.kyschools.us.

Overkill? I think not! Week 5

AJ Green
WR
Georgia
Height- 6'4
Weight- 212

2008-Rec 56, Yrd 963, TD 8
2009-Rec 53, Yrd 808, TD 6
2010-REC 57, Yrd 848, TD 9 (8 games)

Talk about a #1 wide receiver in the making. AJ Green has the size of T.O. with the Height of Calvin Johnson. I know wide receiver first round picks are about as popular as Hosni Mubarak but AJ isn't a normal player. If you want to see the impact AJ has on a football game just look at Georgia's season last year. Lost 3 of 4 games he didn't play in and went 5-1 with him. Mind you this is in the SEC, the best conference in America. AJ could have the impact Dez Bryant had with the Cowboys last year. I see "my" Cincinnati Bengals taking him with the #4 pick. I am already preparing myself for the local out lash. But when you consider T.O. and Ocho are most likely gone, WR is a need. Plus I love the idea that the future of the offense will be Shipley, Gresham and Green. That's a great young core that will attracted a QB to replace Carson Palmer. I'd rather pick Green than sign Plaxico. At the end of the day AJ is a low risk immediate impact player that will sell jerseys and tickets. He has WhoDey written all over him.

Beast East or Least East?

Pitt, Notre Dame, Syracuse headline deep Big East tournament - Stewart Mandel - SI.com

I Jump in it

I'm excited! I mean really excited! Not like when you are a kid and its Christmas morning excited, but more like when you have your first sexual experience excited. Okay, maybe TMI on that one but you get the idea. I just thought another Charlie Sheen reference would be redundant. I didn't want to say "like when Sheen first discovered crack excited." I'm excited because its championship week for college basketball. Also because I got my tax return back and its the first "real money" tax situation of my life. Ive come to enjoy this week as much as the NCAA tournament its self. There is less on the line for most teams but you get a whole week filled with bitter rivalry's and bragging rights. I love seeing the story lines develop with team that are on the bubble making a run to save there season. its great theater. So enough waxing poetic lets dive into it!
The Big East is the most annoying conference all season, but it always delivers with the best tournament. 5 days of games with double byes is a little much but I say embrace the quadruple headers. 11 teams have a chance to raise there seeds with a good performance. I look for Kemba Walker to lead Uconn on a Gerry McNamara like run. Hes a big time player and will preform well in the Garden.

Notre Dame has a great opportunity to land a one seed if they can win this title. I would of never of guessed that after my Kentucky Wildcats whipped up on the Irish earlier this season. But its not all good news in NYC. Villanova and Gtown are struggling and could really hurt there seeding. They both are in the NCAA but like Sheen....things aren't moving in the right direction. See its redundant. Meanwhile over in the BigTen, Ohio St is a lock for a 1 seed and doesnt have much to play for. Look for an upset team here to win. Illinois, Minnesota, Mich State, Michigan are all desperate teams. I look for Michigan State to use it to there advantage and make a run to get off that bubble. We go south now to the SEC. Kentucky is the team that has the most to gain here. The Cats could sneak up to a 3 seed with a SEC title. Bama and UGA are hanging by a thread and need a run to get in the NCAA. I predict a Tennessee Kentucky final on Sunday. Conference tournaments are all about momentum. Teams that can get on a roll early can generate a run. My big upset this week will happen in the Big 12. Look for K-State lead by Pullen to win. They have under achieved all year. Fear the Beard! and Frank Martin in general. Pac 10 is a crap shoot, your guess is as good as mine. ACC stinks so who cares. BC and VTech need more to make the field. My advice is to just sit back and enjoy. Grab some beers, wings, dips, and whatever else you do and jump in it!

Overkill? I think Not! Week 4

Patrick Peterson
CB
LSU
H-6'1
W-222
Carree Stats
Tackles- 135
Forced Fumble-1
Interceptions-7
Punt Returns- 2

Rarely are defensive stats in a college career impressive on paper. But trust me these are good number for a any defensive backs. Peterson helped his draft stock a ton when he showed he could return punts in 2010. Above all the stats Peterson put up is his size. 6'1 222, is huge for a CB. For comparison Revis Island is 5'11 198 and he pushes any wide out around he wants. There are only 2 shutdown corners in the NFL. So like a dominate center in basketball, when you have a chance to get one you go for it. Peterson has the potential to shutdown half of the football field on any team in the NFL. I don't feel like I can justly compare Peterson to any current player. He might not be the next Charles Woodson but he has a chance to be and those guys don't come around every year. I really could see any team taking him in the top 10.Unlike Charlie Sheen He is a low risk pick and sometimes that's the best kind.

Jorts Day Recap

Last night was senior night at Rupp Arena. I was there and have been to several senior days in my life but this one stands out. The University of Kentucky only had one senior this year, Josh "Jorts" Harrellson. His nickname is Jorts because he wears Jorts sometimes. Jorts are jean shorts. Ive never seen so many painted chests, t-shirts, banners and signs dedicated to one player before.Including the giant head seen above. Especially for a player who has really only been a factor on the court for one year. I love it because this shows the real relationship between the Big Blue Nation (BBN) and the team. All the fans, from the student body to a 60 year old, showered Josh with love. Josh was a Junior college transfer that sat the bench for 2 years before being forced into action his Senior year. The BBN recognises the work Josh has put in to evolve into the hard working, garbage man type player he is today. I'm going to stop before I get to mushy. Jorts day was a complete success. (oh yea UK won too).

The New York Debts

Financially flagging Mets get $25 million from Major League Baseball - NYPOST.com

Prediction? Pain...

So the Cats don't lose at home, right? It's scientific fact. Unfortunately, I have a bad feeling about this game. I'm not predicting pain for Florida and the mop on Chandler Parsons's head, but rather I am predicting pain for Cats fans. I don't have any stats or what have you to prove this, but I know Florida isn't thinking 'why bother making the trip, they don't lose at home'. Cal's Cats have have lacked mental toughness all season long and while I don't think his boys also think it's automatic, I do think they have that feeling in the back on their minds. I have thought all season long this team will figure out it's issues and nearly every time, I have been proven wrong. Every game that I thought would be automatic has had me wanting to shot put animals into walls. So I'm not given a strong vote of confidence that the Cats walk away with the W. However, if they do lose, I think it could FINALLY be the wake up call this team needs to play to their potential. I HAAAATE losing to Florida. Don't let us down boys.

KB's Brown Bear Awards (Ben Foster Approved)

In an effort to diversify bottle services portfolio and in spirit of the Oscars being this weekend, Ive put together my own list of awards. Now these aren't just for 2010. There of all time, or more accurately my time on this earth. So with the anticipation level of who will replace Simon on that show I don't watch, here we go.

Best Hot Tube Scene- Out Cold and Zach Galifianakis.
This happened before "The Hangover" and when everybody knew who Galifianakis was. In short, he gets his fun stuff stuck in a jet.

Best Sports Movie- Rudy
I mean when Rudy finally gets on the field and his parents are there....
(close 2nd Major League) the original not that other crap

Best member of the A-Team- Face
He is unpredictable, gets the ladies, has the best one liners, and kinda becomes the leader in the end

Best Rapper Side Kick- P. Diddy "Get Him to the Greek"
Average movie overall, but P Diddy rocks the shit and mind fucks you!

Best Will Ferrell movie- Old School
I dont feel like this choice has to be explained

Best Sports Cameo in a Movie- Lance Armstrong "Dodgeball"
Just hysterical. I would rather get a colonoscopy than watch the Tour, but when Lance poked fun at himself here, he immediately got my respect. (hahaha)

Worst Movie ever that I Love- Half Baked/Land of the Lost
The Guy on the couch agrees with me

Best Boston Crime movie- The Departed
I do a pretty wicked awesome Boston accent. But I cant do it now, i have to go park the car and pick up some beers you bunch of queers.

Hottest Hottie- Blake Lively
I'm sure she has been in movies but she should be in more. Yikes!!

Best Movie High School Football Coach- Bud Kilmer "Varsity Blues"
"Secrete Formations"

The Movie that when its on TV I cant turn it off- Armageddon

Best Vince Vaughn Rant- Nicholas Cage "The Rock"
"You broke out, let me see if I can get this straight, down the incinerator chute, on the mine car, through the tunnels to the power plant, under the steam engine - that was really cool by the way - and into the cistern through the intake pipe. But how, in the name of Zeus' BUTTHOLE!... did you get out of your cell? I only ask because in our current situation, well, it could prove to be useful information. *Maybe*!"


Best Patriotic Walkout- Animal House
I'm not ganna sit here and listen to you bad mouth the United States of America! Gentlemen!!

How old were you when you realized that Emilio Esteves got a DUI in the very beginning of Mighty Ducks Award- 15

Most Awkward buddy comedy- I Love You, Man
I don't want to talk about it

Character most like me award- Adam Sandler in "Big Daddy"
I just haven't got my foot ran over by a cab yet, Brady plays the part of the child

Movie that represents my life- A mix of Van Wilder and 300.
Yes, I'm just that awesome

Best Predator like Monster- Predator

Funniest Movie Title- "Winters Bone"

Best Drug Dealer- James Franco "Pineapple Express"
Sorry Dave

I hope this wasn't informative

The Cats, 'I was waaay off''

So earlier this week, I, Nostrakennedy, received my first pedicure. No, I didn't buy it myself, as it was a gift from my girlfriend. No, she didn't buy it for me because of any mold, fungi, or because the 'captain' of the toes would cut her leg in the middle of the night. Long story, but it and my mimosa were necessary. The rest of the day, I felt like I had stuck my feet in a tub of butter prior to putting on my socks and shoes. While it was not something I would ever buy for myself, I will say I was looking forward to it. I was a little nervous that I wouldn't like it or that it would hurt, but it felt like I stuck my feet into a warm tub of butter and had it licked off by a dozen kittens and the only thing that hurt was the condescending looks of 'not belonging' by unattractive/overweight female employees and for lack of a better term, gay dudes. Do you know what hurt more than that? Watchin' the Cats this season, and not just on the road. Every freakin' game...With all the annoying tendencies that this team has, what annoys me the most? It's hard to tell. Is it that if we had started this blog at the beginning of the season that I could post the exact same game recap for each loss? Is it that our defense is so weak and slow that we can be beat on any given night, by one player, as was the case again last night at the hands of the Piggly Wiggly logo (Clarke)? Is it that we play so well at home, and like a bunch of blind mice on the road? Is it that this team is making me question Calipari when I know he isn't responsible for stupid fouls and ugly turnovers in late game situations? Or maybe it is that we still haven't yet accepted that this isn't last year's team. Either way, last night was a wasted opportunity to tie Vanderbilt as the 2 seed in the east, giving them a much needed 1st round bye. Vanderbilt still has to play in Rupp obviously, as well as playing on the road in Gainesville. So it's not impossible for the Cats to still earn that first round bye. The Cats are too small and their bench is too shallow to think it's possible to win four in a row, even three in a row for that matter. UK is looking at a 5-6 seed as of now, but I don't think it's impossible to move up to a 3, or maybe even a 2 seed if they were to win out. Again, I am not expecting this to happen, but saying it's possible and Kentucky's name definitely earns the itself the benefit of the doubt from the selection committee. Realistically, we're looking at a 4 or 5 seed which isn't the worst possible situation, but doesn't make me feel real good for any kind of run. UK has enough talent to play with and beat all but the top 5-10 teams in the country so let's keep our fingers crossed. Michigan St, when again left for dead, made it to the Final Four as a 4 or 5 seed. That being said, Northern Iowa who beat the number 1 seed, Kansas, is still waiting for that thank you card from coach Izzo that allowed them to reach the Final Four again. I don't think that will be the case for the Cats, but that's why they play the game. And assuming we do exit stage left come mid March, I'll be willing to give Cal a pass on this season, giving all the turnover he had to work through, but my level of concern will have to be raised.

Overkill? I think not! Week 3

Randall Cobb
Wide Receiver/Return man/QB/Running back
Kentucky
Height 5'11
Weight 186

2009- 15 total TD, 447 yrd rec, 573 yrd rush,punt return

2010- 13 total TD, 1017 yrd rec, 424 yrd rush, punt return

Most of the college football world is not familiar with Randall Cobb. I think his stats speak for themselves. Especially when you consider he played in the SEC on one of the traditionally lesser programs. Putting up number like 15 TD a year playing Auburn, Florida, LSU every week is as impressive as the protest turnouts in Wisconsin. Also Its not like he was playing along side 10 other future pros. Now I'm not doing a week on Cobb because he went to my almamater. I'm doing it because he will be one of the immediate impact rookies next year.He is the most versatile player in the draft.Its more difficult for defenses to figure out what Cobb is going to do than it was for Carmelo Anthony to be traded. But because he played at Kentucky he will slip to the late 1st rnd. What this tells me is he will go to a playoff level team that just needs to fill a need. Just like Big Ben he will be put in an ideal situation with a winning franchise. I see him going 28th- Patriots, 29th- Bears or 30-Jets. Cobb has the skill set of Randell El or DeSean Jackson. I don't mean to over sell him but just look out for Randall Cobb.

James Urban = Kevin Kolb?

The Cincinnati Bengals have hired James Urban as there Wide Receivers coach. Normally this wouldn't be post worthy. But when I considered that Urban came from Philly where he was just promoted to Assistant Offensive Coordinator, I thought this may be the first sign of major change. It has been well documented that Carson Palmer has his house for sale in Cincinnati and is threatening retirement if not traded. Mean while Kevin Kolb has waited patiently for his shot with the Eagles and has been out seeded by Mike Vick. So when you put this all together one wonders why James Urban would take a demotion....also by all accounts Urban is more qualified to be the Bengals OC than newly hired Jay Gruden. Ill admit this is a little stretch. But something to keep an eye on. Who-Dey!

Cousins goes off glass to Wall

And then there was this...

On a very slow night in sports, Heeeeey, we beat UCONN last night!?...John Wall made a nice pass to Blake Griffin to score two points, and Stephen Curry died a little inside.

Kevin Borseth Rant

Top Ten Press Conference moment here, and it comes our way via the Michigan Women's Basketball coach!! Outstanding!

Calipari Courtside Interview

Classic Cal here. Sure he is a little rude to the sideline reporter but its funny when Cal does it. Unlike the last UK coach...

Overkill? I think not! Week 2

Mark Ingram
Running Back
Alabama
Height 5-10
Weight 215
2009- 1658 yrd, 17 TD, 6.1 ypc, HEISMAN , National Title
2010- 875 yrd, 13 TD, 5.5 ypc

Much like Lindsay Lohan entering a rehab center, Mark Ingram really needs no introduction. He is one of the best running backs in college football history. The 2009 season was his master piece (see above). Now his stats dropped off in his senior year because he missed two games with an injury. Ingram is a great combo of speed and power. When you add in his ability to receive out of the backfield(334yrds 3TD 2009)he is a cant miss prospect. But the most impressive stat Ingram can claim is he never fumbles(cough cough AP).I would compare Ingram to Emmitt Smith. Emmitt rushing stats for 3 years at Florida are far above Ingram's but Emmitt played in a different era. An era with out 2 pack systems, and spread offenses. But if you project Ingram's stats for 2010 for the 2 games he missed, there pretty close. I see Mark going as high as 17 to New England or 19 to the Giants. Ingram would more than fill the role Brandon Jacobs will leave. But the perfect fit for him is 22 Colts. Give Peyton a franchise back again and the Colts may jump back up to a Super Bowl champion. When you look back on this draft 5 years from now Mark Ingram will be the best player taken. Its an easy transition for running backs to the NFL. I'm already picking Ingram as my rookie sleeper for fantasy next year.

Sorry folks, the parks closed today..

Living at home has its perks, like having Direct TV that I wouldn't be able to afford all by my lonesome. This allows me to watch the NBA's all-time leader in eyebrow wax jobs, analyze crappy games that ESPN doesn't want (minus BYU v San Diego St, how did that game not get picked up again?). Wally Szczerbiak, Miami University's most respected athletic alumnus, apparently hasn't earned the respect of his new colleagues just yet. How can you reward and fire an A/V guy simultaneously?

Happy Valentines Day from Lil' Wayne and Eminem

Saturday Night Live - Weekend Update: Lil' Wayne and Eminem - Video - NBC.com

When we started this blog I wanted my posts to reflect my personality. I am pretty much obsessed with sports, so that's why everything has been sports related thus far. But I have other interest. So this will be my first attempt at a non-sports post. Yesterday I saw the new Adam Sandler film "Just Go With It". I know what your thinking, "oh this Kyle guy is so interesting. He likes sports and Adam Sandler movies. What a unique guy". Well, that's what I like so BACK OFF!(anyone catch that reference?) Now the movie was entertaining to say the least. If you think Adam Sandler is funny and Brooklyn Decker and Jenny Aniston are good looking then you will like this movie. When seeing a movie the best thing an audience member can do is realize what kind of movie you are about to watch. Sandler doesn't try to win Oscars. Now Sandler has a sports connection. Hes made several sports movies including, The Waterboy, Happy Gilmore and The Longest Yard. He is a giant Jets fan. Did that word choice confuse anyone? Hahaha. Also he puts my favorite sports talk host in his movies, Dan Patrick. DP is actually pretty funny in this latest appearance. Now I know a good amount of people that don't care for Sandler. This confuses me. He brings to the table everything you could want in a comedic movie star. First off he comes from Saturday Night Live. SNL is and always has been hit or miss from skit to skit, but it always finds and elevate stars. A quick list is Chevy Chase, Will Ferrell, John Belushi, Bill Murry and on and on. Sandler also has the "2 classic" movies I think every comedic actor has. This is a theory of mine. Adams are "Billy Madison" and "Happy Gilmore". Now "Big Daddy" is a borderline classic to me. This is where Sandler starts to do his male fans a big favor. He adds just enough heart and/or romance to his movies where you can sell you girlfriend to go see it. "Just Go with it" is no exception to this. To compare, most women don't care for Will Ferrell movies. Sure they like Anchorman but who doesn't. If your significant other likes "Semi-Pro" or "Land of the Lost" you have a keeper my friend!. So I think I have come to a conclusion. Sandler will be the first entry into the Kyle Brown comedy Hall of Fame. Ill come up with a better name later. Plus this post gave me an excuse to show a picture of Brooklyn Decker. YIKES!! Now theres something Ive always admired about Sandler. Hes a smart man. He put his friends in his movies. This way instead of being on a movie set, hes on a movie set with all his friends.I mean for what other reason is Dave Mathews there. I admire the loyalty he has. Also hes no dummy. Casting women like Brooklyn and Aniston is a veteran move. Hes graduated form his Drew Barrymore days.

Its okay to Scream.

OK everybody, and by everybody I mean BBN, and by BBN I mean Big Blue Nation, and by Big Blue Nation I mean Fans of Kentucky Men's Basketball, take a deep breath. I know seeing UK lose another road game to a quality opponent is as frustrating as seeing a bra-less beauty get killed in a horror movie. But I am here to quite the storm of concern and guide you to the promise land. By this time of the year you know what you have in a basketball team. UK cant win on the road. They just cant. So don't get so upset when it happens. A close lose on the road to a ranked opponent does not negatively affect the team. UK wont drop in the rankings, and this lose wont lower there seed in the looming NCAA tourney. It was however a big missed opportunity to improve. So this lose or other similar loses shouldn't concern you. Why? Because last time I checked there are no road games in the NCAA tourney and BBN travels better than anyone in the nation. So a "neutral" site game for Kentucky many times turns into a defacto home game. Also, with Neutral site wins over Washington and Notre Dame this team will be just fine. The thought that I am continually having is I'm really starting to get a sense on how special last years freshman were. Wall, Cousins and company aren't normal people. Jones, Knight and Lamb are. They are doing just fine for who they are. I am a bit concerned with the lack of improvement on the road but...like i stated before, it wont be that big of a factor. The good news is UK only has one more tough road game left, at Tennessee. UK will win there next 5 games. So let out a Scream, call a friend up, punch a pillow or have a drink. This isn't a Billy G lead team that will fall apart.

Friday's 'Late Night Filings'

Good evening/morning ladies an...who am I kidding? No ladies here. These are your late night filings. Do I care this much about progressing this blog that I would sacrifice my Friday night just to bring you today's headlines? Or has my social life hit such a low that I had nothing better to do aside from working on this blog and sitting around at work until close because I had nothing better to do?

You know how when you're having one of those just awful all around days? You're going about your regular routine and even the easiest task is making you want to put your head through a wall? Maybe you decide to take the long way home just because you finally have a minute to do so? And while driving, you hear the local sports talk radio guy give your beer pong tournament a shoutout and even a name drop and completely turn around your day? Well that's how my Wednesday went down. Mo Egger, former 'first pitch' celebrity, was talking about a summer caravan his show plans on taking. While talking to the producer, the producer asks about a beer pong tournament Mo is invited too. Mo kindly responded, and I'm paraphrasing, 'yeah, my friend Brady, or really a guy I met last year, throws a beer pong tournament that I went to. So we'll be going again.'. The producer responders with, 'You're friends with Tom Brady?'. So thanks for brightening up a bad day, Mo. Das Cup is only a few months away...

UK/VANDY PREVIEW

Saturday afternoon, the Cats head south to the Music City, to take on the Commodores of Vanderbilt. And like I would assume of the girl in this picture, beating Vandy at home is far from easy. Beating them at home, when having the road struggles this Kentucky team has had this season, is even harder. However, much like the apparent buther-face, maybe they're easier than we think. Why else would her face be cut out...? I'm not sure that this Vandy team is that good. To be honest, I haven't followed them much, but I do know there strengths are in the backcourt. This means Jorts has potential to have a big game again, while staying out of foul trouble. This will cause Vanderbilt to adjust, opening up opportunities for clear shots and easy penetration from the guards. Get Liggins and Knight/Miller on their guards and I think the boys in blue figure out their midseason road struggles. Or maybe I'm just biased.

Carson Palmer, how should I feel towards you? You haven't broke character in our 8 years together. I don't know anything about you. You might as well be my creepy neighbors, who we never see, so long that we thought the father had died. Monotone when you speak, always. Always with that same look on your face, 'the rest of these guys aren't as good as me, why bother trying?' or the occasional double arm, two finger point to the sky looking as surprised as the viewers at home that the previous play worked. That is really all I have to go by with you, even when you do always take the blame and say the right things, all of this while not making the smallest excuse. For all I know, you are a perfect gentleman. Or maybe you're Ben Roethlisberger. Either way, do you want us to care or have you became so apathetic yourself that you just don't have enough energy to care anymore either? Being with this franchise can certainly do that to a person and my first thought when hearing you wanted out was that I didn't blame you a bit. Regardless if it has been your injuries, your supporting cast, your coach, your owner, it doesn't make a difference now because this is where we are.

Even with hearing of you putting your house are on the market, which happens all the time and nothing happens like with Brady Quinn..., I really struggle to see either possibilities a likelihood. If you can break character long enough to make a really good poker face, you might get your wish. If it really does come down to you retiring as your only alternative to playing for the Whodey, I'd like nothing else other than to see you put that same disgruntled look on your face, on to Mike Brown's. More so than is currently, if that's possible. I just want to know, what was the final finger flick to the back of your head? Was it the firing or temporary containment of Bratkowski? Was it keeping Marvin? Was it keeping the Ocho? Did Mike Brown ask you to take a pay cut? Was it your hometown fans 'booing' you on a weekly basis? Or was it that your wife wants you to retire with having your third child? If that's the case, you have bigger problems to deal with anyways. Unfortunately though, I will probably never know the answer, because you're not that athlete. It'd be a lot more entertaining if you were though.

For the Bengals, it doesn't make a difference. Next year is not our year either way. Palmer, whether with all the pieces around him or not, is a shell of his former self. If we didn't have a new Off Coor, I would lean towards keeping Carson, mainly because I don't think Cam or Blaine are the answers, and a QB from free agency wouldn't get to speak with the coaching staff to learn the offense until July in case of a lockout . However, we do have a new Off Coor so if your worried about getting a new QB and not speaking with the coaches until summer and then not learning the offense quickly, Carson doesn't have the benefit of 'knowing' an offense over another QB like he would have if Bratkowski was still around anymore either. Hard telling if there is any truth to this, but Solomon Wilcox did report on his show that he expects the Bengals to offer their #4 1st round pick for Kevin Cobb and the Eagles 1st round pick. At that point the Bengals would trade CP9 to Seattle for their 1st round pick, leaving the Whodey with Kevin Kolb and two first round picks in the early twenties. I can't say I hate that...

They say history repeats itself. Let me take you back to a time I remember. A time when a Celtics/Lakers rivalry was at the peak of it's popularity. A Laker with 5 championships and on the downside of his all-time career, arguably crowned the best in the game, is making probably his last run to earn his 6th championship. The only thing standing in the way, THE EVENTUAL BEST OF ALL-TIME at the start his complete domination of the game as though he created it. I'm talking about Magic and MJ right? Nope. Now, I am far from a fan of 'The King', but the scenarios are rather similar and Lebron has been the 'eventual best ever' since he was 15. If James was on pace with Jordan, then he would have won his 1st title last year, but at the same time, the former #23 entered the NBA younger than did THE #23. Dwayne Wade has more miles on him than did Scottie, but not having to carry 11 guys on his back for 82 games should help keep Wade healthy enough for awhile. Again, I'm not pulling for it as my Lakers are heating up as fast as the weather (go outside, Saturday's supposed to be warm), but 'hey..., it could happen.'.

Speaking of the NBA, it's looking as though the Lakers will no longer be 'my Lakers' as it's sounding more and more like the former Cincinnati Royals, now Sacramento Kings, could become the Kentucky Kings after a hired attorney, for the city of Louisville, met with NBA commish David Stern. Of course, the attorney said it went very well, but let's hope he is right. The NBA would instantaneously become my favorite professional league. Following players can be work in regards to rooting interests, but when you don't have a dog in the fight, the taste just isn't as sweet. Take for example the Whodey and NFL. Fantasy football and the league is great on it's own, but is 10x better when the Bengals are competitive. I could no longer allow myself to be a bandwagon NBA fan if this happens. And let's assume that they are terrible for the next five years, which usually is the case, the Kings could be stockpiled with UK 'grads' with the amount of 'one n done' players that are going to be coming in and out of Lexington to become lottery picks. They would probably be about as good as the Celtics in the late 90's, but who cares for now? Maybe it could even take away that 'bizarro world' feel that Louisville has to it. I just hope the city and 'Louisville fan' doesn't ruin this for me with the 'this is Louisville's team, no UK fans allowed' talk. Oooh the number of fights that will occur at Freedom Hall, surprisingly not the Yum! Center. Can we please embrace this team together? Just don't let Mike Brown to buy the team. That's I got for now. Enjoy your Saturday.

The Bottle Attacks! with Drew Brees and Ray Lewis

Came Across this on Funny or Die. I could make a joke about Ray Lewis being in a video where people are "attacked" and put in a "murdered" like state on a website called Funny or "Die".com but that would be tasteless. PS Pepsi is good...

Overkill? I think not!

OK folks, the Super Bowl is over and for most people that means no more football. For me it signals the start of one of my favorite time of the year, NFL Draft Season!! Im as excited as Billy Madison on Nudey Magazine Day. Most hate the 24 hour coverage by Mel Kiper and Todd McShay (Ben Foreman doppelganger). I will admit to one thing, part of my enjoyment of the NFL Draft coverage is the ridiculous "draft terms" they constantly use. Terms like Value Pick,High Motor, Reach Pick, Upside, Luxury Pick, and my new favorite Eye discipline! I just cant get enough of the constant over analyzing. So this year you are in luck. Consider me your Draft expert. I will highlight one player each week until the Draft. So get ready we start RIGHT NOW! First up ....




QB- Blaine Gabbert Mizzou
Height 6'5
Weight 235
2009- 3,593yrd, 24TD, 9int, rating 140.45, rushing 204yrd, 3TD
2010- 3,186yrd, 16TD, 9TD, rating 127.03, rushing 232yrd, 5TD

Much like Jenn Sterger,Mr Gabbert def has the build NFL teams are looking for. He has also moved up almost every body's draft boards to a sure 1st round pick. Gabbert came on the scene in 2009. When teams adjusted to him the next year his stats did not drop off. Yes he through for less TD's but that's due to the improvement of Mizzou running attack. whats more important is that his Interceptions did not go up. His decision making improved when teams got film on him. He also showed the ability to run when needed with over 200yrds in 2 straight years. I compare Blaine to another Big 12 QB who wasn't a house hold name the day he was drafted, Josh Freeman. Freeman put up very similar stats at KSU(20TD, 8int, rating 136.48).The downside of Gabbert is he plays in a very shotgun happy system. It will def be an adjustment for him to go under center. But Gabbert has great mechanics and foot work. So unlike Tebow he will not have the adjustment period. I see Gabbert going as high as 8 to Tennessee. Other teams I see being interested 21 Seattle and 15 Miami. So we are off an running!