Monday, January 31, 2011
What Is The Internet?
This happened in January of 1994. Only 17 years ago were people so puzzled by thing I am on almost all the time. It's just an unreal thing to watch and also a reason to laugh at Bryant Gumbel. More stuff to come later today.
-Charlie.
6. The Maurkice Pouncey Effect
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| Even though his coach Mike Tomlin doesn't rule Pouncey out, I think it's safe to say he will not be playing. |
To me, this is the most important story of the Super Bowl. I might be biased because I am former offensive lineman, but I know games are won and lost in the trenches. Maurkice Pouncey not being able to play in the Super Bowl is a critical injury for a team already missing a ton from that unit. If the Steelers had Jay Cutler or Matt Schaub at quarterback, they wouldn't be playing in the Super Bowl
The Steelers' offensive line gets more bail outs than an American car company. Ben Roethlisberger's mobility saves this team from being a nonfactor in the NFL. Big Ben makes his line look much better than what they actually have playing. The Packers need to find a way to actually bring Roethlisberger down instead of letting him extend plays like he so often does on third down situations. All I know is the front seven should be licking their chops.
The Freezer also known as B.J. Raji has been improving every week it seems. He demands double teams, and I could definitely see the Steelers having problems calling out those double teams. Communication is key with an offensive line, and sometimes with rotating parts, it's hard to understand the calls early on in the game even at a professional level. Legursky isn't the only one who has to worry, the tackles, Jonathan Scott and Flozell Adams also should be shaking in their boots. Aaron Schatz of Football Outsiders said on the BS Report, "Scott played great against the New York Jets, and that is amazing because he sucks." Well then. Scott will deal with Erik Walden or Frank Zombo while his buddy Flozell will have deal with Clay Matthews.
Anyone who follows football knows Adams' history. The guy always seems to get about two or three penalties a game. I really hope the refs keep their eye on him because I guranatee you he will have some obvious holds. One Las Vegas prop bets should be "How many times does Charlie Tritschler yell out Sir! when they miss a Flozell Adams' hold?, 4.5 times maybe(I understand they can't get em all). But with all that being said, Adams could be the goat of this game. If they decide to double Raji then that leaves Matthews alone with Adams unless they keep Heath Miller, the Tight End or the backfield as protection therefore limiting Big Ben's opitions.
Pouncey became the bright spot for the Steelers' offensive line netting second-team All Pro selection. Now, he is out for Sunday's game, the Steelers are looking for answers because they know the Packers will be coming at them like a train. The question is will they find a way to stay on the track?
-Charlie.
Leopard & Lace - Dolce & Gabbana Summer 2011
Oh I just love these ensembles!
The perfect LBD!
Love this look - If only it was permissible to wear high waisted underwear & with a shirt in public
Oh I just love this collection. My two favourites combined - leopard & lace in a classic silhouettes. I own a variety of lace items and leopard fur (I've been a fan since I was about 10) but I think a leopard print satin skirt would make an excellent addition to my wardrobe. I'm planning to team it with a crisp white skirt and sleek black pumps for a upbeat corporate look or with a black corset and killer heels for a fabulous night out.
Best Packers Memory
For one of my classes I had to do a short statement on what my favorite Packer memory is. What's better than the Favre's game after his father Irvin passed away?
Here goes:
In my life there have been some good memories and bad memories of Wisconsin’s beloved Green Bay Packers. My first memory of the Green Bay Packers is the loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the 1995 (season) NFC Championship game. That would be considered a negative memory. I don’t remember the score exactly but I know it was a tough loss.
Then shortly after that, the Packers won Super Bowl XXXI over Drew Bledsoe and the New England Patriots. That is one of the better memories but not the best.
Obviously, I could take the easy route and call last weekend’s victory over the Chicago Bears in the NFC Championship game (I don't really remember the score of that game either because of reasons I can not disclose) a great memory, but that is not the best in my opinion.
My favorite memory of the Green Bay Packers was Brett Favre’s game was in the 2003 season in which Brett Favre played the day after his father Irvin passed away. The Packers went on the road to face my Oakland Raiders and there was controversy about whether or not Favre would play. Well, he did start and he played probably the best game I’ve ever seen played personally. He had four touchdown passes in the first half and ended up with a nearly perfect passer rating of 154.9.
Even if it was against my favorite team, that was easily best performance I’ve ever seen from anyone in any sport. Just the sheer emotion of Favre and the way he performed in lieu of his father’s death made it a great memory.
-Mitch
Here goes:
In my life there have been some good memories and bad memories of Wisconsin’s beloved Green Bay Packers. My first memory of the Green Bay Packers is the loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the 1995 (season) NFC Championship game. That would be considered a negative memory. I don’t remember the score exactly but I know it was a tough loss.
Then shortly after that, the Packers won Super Bowl XXXI over Drew Bledsoe and the New England Patriots. That is one of the better memories but not the best.
Obviously, I could take the easy route and call last weekend’s victory over the Chicago Bears in the NFC Championship game (I don't really remember the score of that game either because of reasons I can not disclose) a great memory, but that is not the best in my opinion.
My favorite memory of the Green Bay Packers was Brett Favre’s game was in the 2003 season in which Brett Favre played the day after his father Irvin passed away. The Packers went on the road to face my Oakland Raiders and there was controversy about whether or not Favre would play. Well, he did start and he played probably the best game I’ve ever seen played personally. He had four touchdown passes in the first half and ended up with a nearly perfect passer rating of 154.9.
Even if it was against my favorite team, that was easily best performance I’ve ever seen from anyone in any sport. Just the sheer emotion of Favre and the way he performed in lieu of his father’s death made it a great memory.
-Mitch
Weight Room Behaviors
I have recently gotten back in the swing of things in the weight room after a long period of laziness. Since I've started lifting again, I realized how much I hate going into the weight room. Not because I do not like to lift (I do), but all the other people in the weight room grind my gears. The stuff they do just either makes me laugh or make me pist off. Here are some examples (in no particular order of how much they grind my gears):
1. The lifters who look like they are on speed: These guys are the lifters who never let their muscles take a break. They'll finish one set on one machine, then sprint directly to the next machine and immediatly begin doing their next exercise. Slow the fuck down for heaven's sake. They are always on at least 3 different machines at one time. What especially grinds my gears is that if you try and step in to get some work in on one of the machines they are working on they'll say to you, "Sorry bro, I'm using that machine." Pick an exercise to do and stick with it until you are ready to move to the next one.
2. The grunters/screamers: This is a situation to me where there is some degree of gear grindness. The grunters do not really piss me off more than they do make me giggle. The screamers now, thats another story. This goes for the coaches and the lifters. I am not one of those guys who needs to be screamed at to get me to do my lift. Just let me do my lift, so I do not understand why some guys need to be screamed at. As for the lifters, ok ya we all know you are there lifting 300 pounds on the bench press. I don't need to hear you proclaim to the world that you are lifting 300 pounds.
3. The "I don't lift legs" guys: You can tell who these guys are. Big upper bodies, with small chicken legs. I know what some of these guys' mentality is: to look good for girls. If thats what you lift for, then may God have mercy on your soul. You should lift to help keep you in shape and to improve your health. Show your legs some love when you lift. That way, you won't look so unproportional when I see you walking down the street.
4. The people who are in there forever, but don't really do anything: One of our contributors to Snotap is one of these guys, Mitchy. These people don't grind my gears but it just makes me laugh. They just walk around and just bs with everyone in there, but don't really do any lifting. Nothing was funnier than working out in the summer with Eric at the YMCA and doing our shooting exercises and then lifting and having Mitchy follow us around. Eric would get so mad and I would just laugh at Mitch and Eric because they would be going at each other. One of the highlights of my working out experiences.
I'm sure there are tons of other behaviors that can be stated, but I'll leave that up to the other contributors and readers to make comments on behaviors that they think are funny. I can't wait until I make my first million, so I can open up my own weight room and basketball court that only my friends and I can use. That way I don't have to deal with all these other people and their antics.
Michael
1. The lifters who look like they are on speed: These guys are the lifters who never let their muscles take a break. They'll finish one set on one machine, then sprint directly to the next machine and immediatly begin doing their next exercise. Slow the fuck down for heaven's sake. They are always on at least 3 different machines at one time. What especially grinds my gears is that if you try and step in to get some work in on one of the machines they are working on they'll say to you, "Sorry bro, I'm using that machine." Pick an exercise to do and stick with it until you are ready to move to the next one.
2. The grunters/screamers: This is a situation to me where there is some degree of gear grindness. The grunters do not really piss me off more than they do make me giggle. The screamers now, thats another story. This goes for the coaches and the lifters. I am not one of those guys who needs to be screamed at to get me to do my lift. Just let me do my lift, so I do not understand why some guys need to be screamed at. As for the lifters, ok ya we all know you are there lifting 300 pounds on the bench press. I don't need to hear you proclaim to the world that you are lifting 300 pounds.
3. The "I don't lift legs" guys: You can tell who these guys are. Big upper bodies, with small chicken legs. I know what some of these guys' mentality is: to look good for girls. If thats what you lift for, then may God have mercy on your soul. You should lift to help keep you in shape and to improve your health. Show your legs some love when you lift. That way, you won't look so unproportional when I see you walking down the street.
4. The people who are in there forever, but don't really do anything: One of our contributors to Snotap is one of these guys, Mitchy. These people don't grind my gears but it just makes me laugh. They just walk around and just bs with everyone in there, but don't really do any lifting. Nothing was funnier than working out in the summer with Eric at the YMCA and doing our shooting exercises and then lifting and having Mitchy follow us around. Eric would get so mad and I would just laugh at Mitch and Eric because they would be going at each other. One of the highlights of my working out experiences.
I'm sure there are tons of other behaviors that can be stated, but I'll leave that up to the other contributors and readers to make comments on behaviors that they think are funny. I can't wait until I make my first million, so I can open up my own weight room and basketball court that only my friends and I can use. That way I don't have to deal with all these other people and their antics.
Michael
Durant v. Griffin: Who Ya' Got?!
One of our readers Adam asked me on Facebook: "You are the GM of a NBA team. Who would you rather build your team around, Kevin Durant or Blake Griffin? I'm saying Durant, just curious as to your thoughts..." So I decided to break it down to the very core.
Shooting- ADV: Durant
This is probably the easiest one for Durant to win. Right now, Griffin is excellent underneath the basket but he hasn't mastered that 12 to 18 foot jumper that guys like Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan mastered throughout the years. When Griffin gets that jumper down, look out. He will be near unstoppable, but today, Durant can do it from all places on the court.
Passing- ADV: Griffin
This has been heavily discussed on the blog in the past couple weeks. Durant needs to work on his court version, no question about it. Griffin isn't that much better than KD, but he creates a ton of problems when the Clippers throw it down into the post. I expect Griffin's assist numbers to grow as he gets better because teams will start to double team.
Rebounding- ADV: Griffin
A runaway category for Griffin. He averaging near 13 rebounds a game as a rookie. He is currently 4th in the NBA right now. Durant does get his rebounds, but in my opinion, he doesn't crash the boards enough. I would like to see more from Durant in terms of rebounding.
Match Up Problems- ADV: Durant
While Griffin is physically a monster, Durant creates so many problems as a shooting guard and a small forward at 6'9. The Thunder can run a smaller lineup with KD at the wing, or supersize the lineup. Honestly, you can play Durant at every five positions, but Griff can only play the four or five.
Scoring- ADV: Durant
He squeaks by in this one. Griffin scores in bunches, but not like Durant can. It really happens because Durant is a decent three point shooter plus he can slash. Griffin is really all about the alley oops, dunks, and the layups inside. But as I said earlier, Griff needs to get better from the outside.
Defense- ADV: Durant
This one might surprise you, but if you looked at advanced statistics using opponents PER 48 minute production, Durant takes it. When KD is playing his natural 2 and 3 position, the opponents are averaging 13.2 and 12.2. At Griffin's spots, his counterparts are 14.5 and 18.3. I actually would have guessed the opposite, but statistically, KD has it. \
Late Game Situations- ADV: Durant
Once again, it comes down to all the spaces that Durant can score from on the court. He hit a game-winner a couple of nights ago against New York, and I am not sure if Griffin has a winner under his belt. Not to mention, I would rather have a wing guy taking the final shot then throwing it down to the post, but that's just me.
In three years, all of this could change but today, the answer is Durant. Both players are going to continue to grow, and take their game to an impossible level. You want to know a scary thought? What if Griffin after his rookie contract is up decides to take his talents back to Oklahoma City. Westbrook-Durant-Griffin would be a dynasty for years to come.
-Charlie.
Shooting- ADV: Durant
This is probably the easiest one for Durant to win. Right now, Griffin is excellent underneath the basket but he hasn't mastered that 12 to 18 foot jumper that guys like Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan mastered throughout the years. When Griffin gets that jumper down, look out. He will be near unstoppable, but today, Durant can do it from all places on the court. Passing- ADV: Griffin
This has been heavily discussed on the blog in the past couple weeks. Durant needs to work on his court version, no question about it. Griffin isn't that much better than KD, but he creates a ton of problems when the Clippers throw it down into the post. I expect Griffin's assist numbers to grow as he gets better because teams will start to double team.
Rebounding- ADV: Griffin
A runaway category for Griffin. He averaging near 13 rebounds a game as a rookie. He is currently 4th in the NBA right now. Durant does get his rebounds, but in my opinion, he doesn't crash the boards enough. I would like to see more from Durant in terms of rebounding.
Match Up Problems- ADV: Durant
While Griffin is physically a monster, Durant creates so many problems as a shooting guard and a small forward at 6'9. The Thunder can run a smaller lineup with KD at the wing, or supersize the lineup. Honestly, you can play Durant at every five positions, but Griff can only play the four or five.
Scoring- ADV: Durant
He squeaks by in this one. Griffin scores in bunches, but not like Durant can. It really happens because Durant is a decent three point shooter plus he can slash. Griffin is really all about the alley oops, dunks, and the layups inside. But as I said earlier, Griff needs to get better from the outside.
Defense- ADV: Durant
This one might surprise you, but if you looked at advanced statistics using opponents PER 48 minute production, Durant takes it. When KD is playing his natural 2 and 3 position, the opponents are averaging 13.2 and 12.2. At Griffin's spots, his counterparts are 14.5 and 18.3. I actually would have guessed the opposite, but statistically, KD has it. \
Late Game Situations- ADV: Durant
Once again, it comes down to all the spaces that Durant can score from on the court. He hit a game-winner a couple of nights ago against New York, and I am not sure if Griffin has a winner under his belt. Not to mention, I would rather have a wing guy taking the final shot then throwing it down to the post, but that's just me.
In three years, all of this could change but today, the answer is Durant. Both players are going to continue to grow, and take their game to an impossible level. You want to know a scary thought? What if Griffin after his rookie contract is up decides to take his talents back to Oklahoma City. Westbrook-Durant-Griffin would be a dynasty for years to come.
-Charlie.
DOY: Ronnie Brewer
It's funny we were watching this game as well as the Bucks-Nets game and somehow we missed this dunk from Ronnie Brewer. He destroys Josh McRoberts, I also love the color guy's response to all of it. If you didn't hear, the Indiana Pacers fired their coach as their record is shit since Reggie Miller left.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
7. The Balanced Question
Consider this the start of the 'SNO Tap Super Bowl Coverage'. I am going to be writing one article each day devoted to the Super Bowl. We decided not to jump the gun last week because this is the true week that matters. The first six will be various topics regarding the Super Bowl, and I will finish off Saturday with a cumulative post about what it means to be here with my prediction included. I assume I am not the only who will be writing about the big game so strap in and sit down, it should be a fun week here on the Tap.
One of the discussions this weekend between us was if the Packers should even to attempt to run the ball? There were compelling arguments for each side, yet I still haven't come to a conclusion. I wrote off the Packers' rushing attack last week saying they had no chance with the powerful Chicago Bears' rush defense. But my reverse jinx magic came in handy as the Pack proved me wrong by being fairly successful with James Starks rushing for 74 yards plus about 40 yards from Aaron Rodgers. I am starting to believe that Brandon Jackson might be worse than I believed. I see how Starks hits the hole, and it's like Ryan Grant. When a team uses a zone blocking rush scheme, they can ill-afford to have a dancer like Jackson in the backfield.
If we use the analogy of supermodels to rush defenses... the Bears are like Marisa Miller and the Pittsburgh Steelers are Brooklyn Decker, both top notch. The Steelers have only allowed 62.5 yards a game to teams, which is one of the lowest in NFL history. Premier running backs like Michael Turner, Chris Johnson, and Ray Rice didn't even gain 50 yards on the ground against the Steelers. The highest yardage they allowed was 87 to the Law Firm when the Patriots got the best of them.
That game stands out like a snorlax amongst a group of smokeshows. When the Patriots offense went Charlie Sheen crazy on the Steel Curtain, they spread the field using four and five wide sets to expose their average secondary. Don't get me wrong, Troy Polomalu is a monster, but I really don't consider him part of their secondary. He plays like a rover like Charles Woodson so it's hard to really include him with the others. The others include Bryant McFadden who takes lessons from Jerry Azumah on how to get burned. Ike Taylor makes big plays, but gets hurt by being overtly aggressive looking for the game changing play. I do like Ryan Clark, although he likes to dish out the big hits more so than playing smart football at times. Trust me, I want McCarthy to get greedy a couple times and hit them over the top with a couple longballs.
Notice I said a couple times because I worry Mike McCarthy will start dialing up the twenty plus yard plays on every down instead of trying to run the football, and the slant routes that work very nicely for this football team. At the end of the day, this is a good problem for the Packers. Against a team like the Steelers, I am thankful the Packers are a pass-first offense.
-Charlie.
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| Chad Clifton has the toughest assignment of the year dealing with James Harrison |
If we use the analogy of supermodels to rush defenses... the Bears are like Marisa Miller and the Pittsburgh Steelers are Brooklyn Decker, both top notch. The Steelers have only allowed 62.5 yards a game to teams, which is one of the lowest in NFL history. Premier running backs like Michael Turner, Chris Johnson, and Ray Rice didn't even gain 50 yards on the ground against the Steelers. The highest yardage they allowed was 87 to the Law Firm when the Patriots got the best of them.
That game stands out like a snorlax amongst a group of smokeshows. When the Patriots offense went Charlie Sheen crazy on the Steel Curtain, they spread the field using four and five wide sets to expose their average secondary. Don't get me wrong, Troy Polomalu is a monster, but I really don't consider him part of their secondary. He plays like a rover like Charles Woodson so it's hard to really include him with the others. The others include Bryant McFadden who takes lessons from Jerry Azumah on how to get burned. Ike Taylor makes big plays, but gets hurt by being overtly aggressive looking for the game changing play. I do like Ryan Clark, although he likes to dish out the big hits more so than playing smart football at times. Trust me, I want McCarthy to get greedy a couple times and hit them over the top with a couple longballs.
Notice I said a couple times because I worry Mike McCarthy will start dialing up the twenty plus yard plays on every down instead of trying to run the football, and the slant routes that work very nicely for this football team. At the end of the day, this is a good problem for the Packers. Against a team like the Steelers, I am thankful the Packers are a pass-first offense.
-Charlie.
Mad Men Character Inspiration Part 2: Betty Draper
Today we are excited to feature our second Mad Monday. We love vintage looks and, when it comes to feminine style , there is none more charming than model turned housewife, Betty Draper. Betty is the epitome of how the modern 1950's wife and mother should look. Her style is a little bit of a mixed bag and goes from pretty and youthful (a la Grace Kelly) to respectable and sophisticated (think Jackie O) little by little. But, regardless of her choices, she never fails to look fashionable and picture perfect with not a single hair out of place.
One of Birdie's favorite styles to wear is the sleeveless, button down dress. Throughout the show you'll see her in a variety of these dresses, usually as her everyday kind of wear, and typically paired with a skinny belt. We can certainly see her wearing something like this around the house, grocery shopping, or at one of her Junior League meetings.
Entertaining guests or just looking to impress? Be the perfect hostess in a simple but stunning dress like this with it's modern colors and pattern and classic silhouette. Betty usually doesn't choose colors like these but she will for a festive occasion or for when she is looking to get a little attention.
Sure, there is another side of Betty (the pants wearing side) but that is one that we rarely see. When you do you can bet they'll be some pretty unique and fashion forward pants like these plaid ones!
Charming business men isn't easy! To wine and dine her hubby's coworkers at formal dinners and weddings, we think Betty would have loved this dress from Macy's. This dress is modest and appropriate for an upper class woman of her time with it's full skirt and lovely pale pink color.
Being wealthy isn't easy and your bound to have more than a few social events to attend to. If your planning to attend a more modern and fun cocktail party, you could opt for this adorable little number. All eyes will be on you in this gorgeous dress with feminine colors, a bit of sparkle, and Betty's signature full skirt that creates the perfect hourglass. Don't forget your white gloves!
In later seasons you're more likely to see Betty is something like this. As her life changes (no spoilers!) she starts dressing a bit more conservative and respectable, showing that she is growing up and changing. While dressing more mature, she is still as classy and beautiful as ever.
When Betty needs some time to herself she hits the stables for some riding and is, of course, dressed appropriately. This would be the perfect chic and modern equestrian outfit, complete with boots, riding pants, and a conservative sweater and turtleneck all in neutral classy colors.
Now, let's not forget accessories. Betty's accessories are classic and feminine and very simple. Need to add a pop of color to an outfit or make yourself look more respectable and presentable? Just add a chic silk scarf and you're ready to go!
And, of course, Betty is never without the blue blood staple, pearls! She is often seen wearing big, oversized pearl stud earrings or a delicate necklace. Slip on a pair of these and your double strand pearl necklace and you'll feel instantly glamorous.
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Finally, Marquette Gets One
In the second half of the Marquette game, it appeared the Warriors were doing their usual thing. They didn't look as crisp as they did in the first half, and seemed to be on their way to another swoon. My buddy Mach texted me around 10 minute mark in the second half, "Cuse is winning by 9, calling it now."
Usually I try to quench Mach's negativity, but my hangover prevented me from coming up with something logical. Not to mention, I couldn't blame him for feeling negative after how many late game collapses we have already witness this season. But Marquette pulled it together with some clutch shooting to ensure the home victory.
Jae Crowder deserved the game ball for his play on Saturday afternoon with 25 points 7 rebounds and became a zone breaker for the Warriors sneaking behind the zone for the easy bucket. Crowder is easily the front runner for Newcomer of the Year in the Big East. Even though he is only 6'6, Crowder is tough inside and can step out for the three making him a real problem for opposing teams. In my opinion, he is more physical version of Lazar Hayward. I don't think he is a better shooter than Zar, but I do like that he hangs out more around the block then the three-point line like Zar would.
The incredible thing about Marquette's win was Darius Johnson-Odom ran into foul trouble plus they received no help from their bench. Vander Blue looked horrendous yesterday making consistent ill-advised decisions, and I wonder if his minutes will decrease. I am not looking that much into it because Blue is a freshman therefore you expect some growing pains. At least he isn't the Orange's Fab Melo who is the most overrated freshman in this year's class. Marquette found a way to get points without bench help or DJO, which both speak volumes to me.
Remember last week when I said Marquette needed to rediscover Jimmy Butler in late game situations? They did exactly that on Saturday. Butler made one of the toughest three-pointers I have seen all season, and hit a back-breaking three in the deep corner. Each shot I felt good about because I trust Jimmy more than anyone on Marquette. He knows how to hit big shots, and lives in the moment. Hopefully, this is only the beginning.
-Charlie.
The incredible thing about Marquette's win was Darius Johnson-Odom ran into foul trouble plus they received no help from their bench. Vander Blue looked horrendous yesterday making consistent ill-advised decisions, and I wonder if his minutes will decrease. I am not looking that much into it because Blue is a freshman therefore you expect some growing pains. At least he isn't the Orange's Fab Melo who is the most overrated freshman in this year's class. Marquette found a way to get points without bench help or DJO, which both speak volumes to me.
Remember last week when I said Marquette needed to rediscover Jimmy Butler in late game situations? They did exactly that on Saturday. Butler made one of the toughest three-pointers I have seen all season, and hit a back-breaking three in the deep corner. Each shot I felt good about because I trust Jimmy more than anyone on Marquette. He knows how to hit big shots, and lives in the moment. Hopefully, this is only the beginning.
-Charlie.
Richard Kilroy illustrations. UK.
Richard was recently selected by Christian Dior as one of five illustrators to produce an original work for 'Dior illustrated', an exhibition of the work and collaborative effort of Rene Gruau and the house of Dior. His fanzine, DECOY, showcases illustrators and artists past and present with a strong enthusiasm of fashion illustration as it's focus.
richardkilroy.com/Home.html
Saturday, January 29, 2011
NBA's Fight Night
KG appears to hit Channing Fyre in the crown jewels when he goes up with the shot. It didn't seem like much on the replays, but as all males know, one little hit is can be brutal.
Marvin Williams is a punk. Who hits the guy from behind, and why do you mess with Shawne Williams? Have you seen his rap sheet? Dude is crazy. The commentator is wondering why they would fight... I tell you why thanks to my friend Simmons... Women or Gambling.
-Charlie.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Jeff Fisher Rides Out Of Nashville
Just when you think the Tennessee Titans seasons couldn't get any more dysfunctional, they decided to throw a curveball by firing Jeff Fisher. This makes about as much sense as the decision to shut down the internet and not expect people to get mad. Who knew, Egyptian government?! But this is a horrendous decision, and I hope the Titans enjoy picking in the top 10 in the next five years.The reason I am so harsh about this decision is because the Titans management still wants to get rid of Vince Young. I am not the biggest VY guy, but keeping Young around will ease the sudden transition. As I tried to figure out the pieces of why the Titans did this, ESPN Adam Schefter brought up a great comparison. Schefter compared it to Tampa Bay's decision a couple years ago by getting rid of Jon Gruden late in January. They got a young coach in Raheem Morris and drafted quarterback Josh Freeman. I am not sure the same result will happen in Nashville.
Likely, the Titans will hire their offensive line coach Mike Munchak and probably bring in the collection of quarterbacks who will be available when the Titans pick at 8 ( Cam Newton, Jake Locker and Ryan Mallet). I don't believe that any of those guys can be inserted into an NFL lineup and be successful next fall. But who knows, I said the same thing about Freeman when Tampa drafted him.
Fisher will land on his feet in 2012. With the plethora of good coaches out there, there are only about five coaches safe right now. I think if one team slips up, they will get screwed. Fisher is a smart, funny dude who would be great in the booth. Much better than Dan Fouts, Solomon Wilcots, and others on CBS.
-Charlie.
Wiz Khalifa “Roll Up” New Single From The Prince of The City
Wiz Khalifa “Roll Up” [Audio Banger] | XXLmag.comHere's a link for Yung Khalifa's new single from the upcoming album "Rolling Papers" courtesy of XXLmag.com.
A touch more poppy sounding than some of his older tracks but still good nonetheless. Hear it for yourself.
-Mitsy
Why Russell Westbrook is More Valuable than Kevin Durant
As my colleague Eric Nohelty would like to point out, I believe a NBA player's assists per game constitutes as a significant statistic in today's NBA. The list that my colleague Eric Nohelty posted earlier contains the players who average under 3 assists per game. Then, my colleague Eric Nohelty stated that he wouldn't want any of these players on his team in mock gesture of an argument we held last night.
The basic argument stemmed from my proclamation before the season that Russell Westbrook is more valuable (or important which is the same thing). Before the season, Kevin Durant was touted as a phenom the likes of Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. However, although Kevin Durant scores more points than James and Bryant the last two seasons, his assists per game pales in comparison to the two other greats. The amount of touches Durant receives should dictate that he average more assists per game. NBA analysts both on TNT and ESPN have said he needs to improve his court vision and passing. That is my argument against Kevin Durant in terms of assists per game and how he should not be considered in terms of a Lebron James or Kobe Bryant.
Now, for my argument towards Russell Westbook being more valuable than Kevin Durant. Durant averages just about 6 more points per game. He averages slightly under 2 more rebounds per game. Russell Westbrook averages 5.5 assists more than Durant per game. Westbrook also averages more steals and Durant averages more blocks. Durant shoots better from the field and from three significantly. These are the statistics. They are concrete facts.
Now, why would I choose Russell Westbrook as more valuable than Durant if Durant holds a slight edge in the statistical category? Why would ESPN have Westbrook at 7 and 4 in their MVP watch the last two weeks? Charlie look here. And why would ESPN not have Durant in the top 10 of their NBA MVP watch since the first weekend they released it?
Now obviously this is not a crackpot, glue-sniffing, idiotic argument that my colleagues Eric and Charlie think it is. Maurice Brooks, ESPN NBA analyst is quoted as, "In September, when Kevin Durant was leading team USA to gold at the FIBA World Championship, who'd have thought KD would be the second best player in OKC."
Westbrook carried the Thunder through Durant's unfortunate injury early in the season. With Durant out of the lineup the Thunder went 3-1 with a road win against Boston.
I'll leave you with this little nugget to consider. It should follow the syllogism model of reasoning. Fact #1: Kevin Durant is superior in all major offensive statistics other than assists per game and steals than Russell Westbrook. Fact #2: Kevin Durant is not being considered for MVP at this moment and Russell Westbrook is. My conclusion: assists per game may play a vital role in determining a player's importance.
The basic argument stemmed from my proclamation before the season that Russell Westbrook is more valuable (or important which is the same thing). Before the season, Kevin Durant was touted as a phenom the likes of Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. However, although Kevin Durant scores more points than James and Bryant the last two seasons, his assists per game pales in comparison to the two other greats. The amount of touches Durant receives should dictate that he average more assists per game. NBA analysts both on TNT and ESPN have said he needs to improve his court vision and passing. That is my argument against Kevin Durant in terms of assists per game and how he should not be considered in terms of a Lebron James or Kobe Bryant.
Now, for my argument towards Russell Westbook being more valuable than Kevin Durant. Durant averages just about 6 more points per game. He averages slightly under 2 more rebounds per game. Russell Westbrook averages 5.5 assists more than Durant per game. Westbrook also averages more steals and Durant averages more blocks. Durant shoots better from the field and from three significantly. These are the statistics. They are concrete facts.
Now, why would I choose Russell Westbrook as more valuable than Durant if Durant holds a slight edge in the statistical category? Why would ESPN have Westbrook at 7 and 4 in their MVP watch the last two weeks? Charlie look here. And why would ESPN not have Durant in the top 10 of their NBA MVP watch since the first weekend they released it?
Now obviously this is not a crackpot, glue-sniffing, idiotic argument that my colleagues Eric and Charlie think it is. Maurice Brooks, ESPN NBA analyst is quoted as, "In September, when Kevin Durant was leading team USA to gold at the FIBA World Championship, who'd have thought KD would be the second best player in OKC."
Westbrook carried the Thunder through Durant's unfortunate injury early in the season. With Durant out of the lineup the Thunder went 3-1 with a road win against Boston.
I'll leave you with this little nugget to consider. It should follow the syllogism model of reasoning. Fact #1: Kevin Durant is superior in all major offensive statistics other than assists per game and steals than Russell Westbrook. Fact #2: Kevin Durant is not being considered for MVP at this moment and Russell Westbrook is. My conclusion: assists per game may play a vital role in determining a player's importance.
Classic DOY: Kobe Bryant
Simmons posted this in his column today and it's good enough to share with the rest of you. The top comment is Kobe Bryant baptized Dwight Howard. Great comment, I agree. This would be definitely in my top five favorite Kobe dunks of all time. Also Dwight Howard was a BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAANPPPPOOOOLE, sorry for the inside joke.
-Charlie.
The NBA Currently Only Has 58 "Team Players"
According to our very own Bert Boyer, in order to be a "team player" in the NBA you have to average at least 3 assists per game. So I took the liberty of finding you a list of of all the crappy teammates in the NBA this year. According to NBA.com in the 2010-2011 season only 58 players average above 3 apg. Here are the highlights from the list of those guys that just seemingly never learned to share.
Name APG
Lamar Odom 2.9
Kevin Durant 2.9
Tayshaun Prince 2.8
Andrei Kirilenko 2.8
Derrek Fischer 2.8
Amar'e Stoudemire 2.7
Rudy Gay 2.7
Kevin Love 2.7
Shane Battier 2.4
Grant Hill 2.4
David West 2.3
Ron Artest 2.1
Wesley Matthews 1.9
Landry Fields 1.9
O.J. Mayo 1.9
Chris Bosh 1.9
Rashard Lewis 1.8
Andrea Bargnani 1.8
Danilo Gallinari 1.7
Al Jefferson 1.7
Antawn Jamison 1.6
Richard Jefferson 1.4
Dwight Howard 1.2
James Jones 0.6
Zydrunas Ilgauskas 0.4
If these guys don't learn how to share soon they are going to find themselves without a job. I would never want any of these players on my team.
In case you didn't notice, I think Brett has sniffed a few to many glue bottles in his day. By my own count (which admittedly may be wrong because I'm not an NBA factbook) 16 of the players on that list are former or current all-stars. There could even be more because I just went through the list and pulled the big names. If you want to see the full list go here.
Name APG
Lamar Odom 2.9
Kevin Durant 2.9
Tayshaun Prince 2.8
Andrei Kirilenko 2.8
Derrek Fischer 2.8
Amar'e Stoudemire 2.7
Rudy Gay 2.7
Kevin Love 2.7
Shane Battier 2.4
Grant Hill 2.4
David West 2.3
Ron Artest 2.1
Wesley Matthews 1.9
Landry Fields 1.9
O.J. Mayo 1.9
Chris Bosh 1.9
Rashard Lewis 1.8
Andrea Bargnani 1.8
Danilo Gallinari 1.7
Al Jefferson 1.7
Antawn Jamison 1.6
Richard Jefferson 1.4
Dwight Howard 1.2
James Jones 0.6
Zydrunas Ilgauskas 0.4
If these guys don't learn how to share soon they are going to find themselves without a job. I would never want any of these players on my team.
In case you didn't notice, I think Brett has sniffed a few to many glue bottles in his day. By my own count (which admittedly may be wrong because I'm not an NBA factbook) 16 of the players on that list are former or current all-stars. There could even be more because I just went through the list and pulled the big names. If you want to see the full list go here.
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