After the Atlanta Falcons did the improbable last year by going to the playoffs with a rookie Head Coach and a rookie QB, the Jets thought they could catch lightning in a bottle with the same formula.
The Atlanta Faclons hired one the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Mike Smith from the Jacksonville Jaguars, and then with the 3rd pick in the 2008 NFL Draft they selected Matt Ryan. The result, Matt Ryan throws a TD on his first career pass ensue to an 11-5 record with a trip to the postseason. Not bad.
The New York Jets took the exact same approach this past offseason. They hired one of the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Rex Ryan (or Rex Cryan as they now call him) from the Baltimore Ravens, his father Buddy Ryan the architect of the '85 Bears defense. And then they traded up for the 5th pick in draft which they used to select Mark Sanchez. The result thus far, a 3-0 record that had everyone (mostly the Jets and their coach) putting the Jets in the Super Bowl and having the greatest defense ever. Since that 3-0 record, the Jets are 1-6 and that highly touted defensive got shredded by little Wes Welker for 15 catches and 192 yards. They have been brought back to Earth.
The Jets with their rookie Head Coach and rookie QB stand far from the success of the Falcons last year as they are currently 4-6 and are searching for answers. Mark Sanchez is struggling like most rookies do, throwing 16 interceptions through his first 9 games, he has also become fumble prone, fumbling the ball 9 times this season, losing 3. Its hard to imagine that a rookie QB with such a good running game and defense to lean on has struggled so much.
After doing a lot of trash-talking for their first game with the Patriots, the Jets were man-handled the second time around with Sanchez throwing 4 INT's, 3 of them to one player, and no one on the defense being able to cover Wes Welker. The Jets came out with no energy and no passion from Ryan's teary eyed speech earlier in the week. The only guy from the team that showed up, Darrelle Reevis who held Randy Moss to 5 catches 43 yards and 1 TD, seems to be the only guy who shows up to play week in and week out. They played like a team with no heart, which is one of the problems.
I think that the bigger problem lies with the Rex Ryan. He is who is and I'm not asking him to change, nor should he. But his demeanor and swagger may have had his team and himself believing that they were better than they really are. I mean he is in his first year as a Head Coach, he does have a rookie QB, and most of the guys are playing in the defense for the first time. Not to mention they play in the same division as Tom Brady and the Patriots, the same Conference and Peyton Manning and the Colts, along with teams like the Chargers, Ravens, Steelers, and this year the surprise Bengals.
With all that said and the playoffs out of reach unless by some miracle the Jets run the table and the 6 teams ahead of them for the remaining 2 Wild Card spots all collapse, highly unlikely, they should concentrate on having fun for the remainder of the season. Ryan talked his team into a corner with his big-chested blabbering and the team's 3-0 start. They have failed to live up to the self-hype, and now there are no expectations to fulfill this season. So relax and go have fun, there is not much else to do. They Jets can't play any worse.
Monday, November 23, 2009
GIANTS GET BACK TO WINNING
I am not a homosexual, but I would have kissed Lawrence Tynes smack on the lips after his game-winning 36 yard Field Goal in OT to propel the Giants to a much-needed win if I had the opportunity. This after I wanted to punch him square in the face after he missed a 31 yard FG earlier in the game. But he, and the Giants as a team reddemed themselves this week.
It has been over a month since the New York football Giants have won a game. Oct. 11 at home against the Oakland Raiders was their last victory until yesterday. And while yesterday's win over the Atlanta Falcons was less than stellar, it was still a win, something which the Giants desperately needed.
After beginning the season high with 5 wins, and then going low with four losses, Eli Manning took the Giants on his back and showed everyone why the Giants paid Easy Eli $100 million in the offseason. On a day when the running game was shut down by the Atlanta's defense and the defense could not hold a 14 point lead in the fourth quarter (SURPRISE!!! - memo to you Sheridan), Eli Manning had a career day at Giants Staduim. For the first time in his career Manning threw for over 300 hundred yards at home. His final totals were 25-39, 384 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT. Manning hit differeny receivers all over the field, and he finally found Kevin Boss in the Red Zone for a pair of scores. Boss who had his best day of the season finished with 5 catches 76 yards and 2 TD's. Mario Manninham also had a big day with 8 receptions for 126 yards including a 29 yards catch and run to setup Tynes for the game-winner in OT. This is the kind of prodcution Manningham can give when he isn't dropping the ball.
I'll give credit to Gilbride who made an honest attempt to restore the running game but the Falcons defense after being gashed the past several weeks decided that the Giants were not going to run on them. But by not abandoning the run too early, the play-action pass was still in effect and Eli torched Atlanta's secondary.
The offensive line needs to get together because they have not been playing like the unit we have been accustomed to seeing the last 2 years. Terrible blocking on both run and pass at times, moreso the running, and uncharacteristic penalties are hurting this them. In fact, penalties by the whole team have really been a problem the last several weeks.
The only down-side to yesterday's win was the defense. Having a 31-17 lead in the 4th Quarter and having to win the game in OT is inexcusable. This is now 2 game in a row that the defense has not been able to hold a lead late in the 4th Quarter. A few questions that I have for one Bill Sheridan, the Giants Defensive Coordinator:
On the last two Falcons drives, where was the rotation on the Defensive Line? As I recall, Tuck, Osi, Kiwanuka, and Robbins were out there for 95% of both drives. What's the point of being 8 or 9 guys deep at that position of not to have guys with fresh legs rushing the passer late in the game? The Falcons were obviously in passing mode being down 14 points in the 4th and so there should have D-Line subs every 2-3 plays. Clint Sintim, Dave Tollefson, Chris Canty, Bsrry Coefield and Rocky Bernard should have been rotated in during the last two drives because it was freakin obvious that the guys that were in there were tired and were getting nowhere close to Matt Ryan.
On a more postive note, I thought Chase Blackburn did a great job at Middle LB in place of Antonio Peirce. He did so on short notice and should get better over the remainder of the year as he gets the reps with the first team. It was good to see Aaron Ross out there. I saw that the Giants used him at Safety and Nickel back. As he gets healthier, I think that Bruce Johnson would be better suited for Safety because he got abused yesterday by Jenkins. Boley has a solid game and showed why we got him, tough assignment for anybody to cover Tony Gonzalez.
Its a short week for the G-Men as they head to Denver to face the struggling Broncos who have dropped 4 in a row for what should be a good game on Thanksgiving night. A quick preview:
Not sure what the health status is of Denver's QB's but that could play a big factor in this game. But no matter who is under center for the Broncos the Giants will need pressure up the middle all game because I don't trust their pass-defense against guys like Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Brandon Stokely. Eli will have to be extra careful with the ball against the crafty veteran secondary of the Broncos which yields a unit with Champ Bailey, Ty Law, and Brian Dawkins. Given time, I think that Manningham, Smith, and Nicks can do some damage against those guys. Denver is reeling and the Giants are feeling good after their win, Giants win 38-17.
It has been over a month since the New York football Giants have won a game. Oct. 11 at home against the Oakland Raiders was their last victory until yesterday. And while yesterday's win over the Atlanta Falcons was less than stellar, it was still a win, something which the Giants desperately needed.
After beginning the season high with 5 wins, and then going low with four losses, Eli Manning took the Giants on his back and showed everyone why the Giants paid Easy Eli $100 million in the offseason. On a day when the running game was shut down by the Atlanta's defense and the defense could not hold a 14 point lead in the fourth quarter (SURPRISE!!! - memo to you Sheridan), Eli Manning had a career day at Giants Staduim. For the first time in his career Manning threw for over 300 hundred yards at home. His final totals were 25-39, 384 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT. Manning hit differeny receivers all over the field, and he finally found Kevin Boss in the Red Zone for a pair of scores. Boss who had his best day of the season finished with 5 catches 76 yards and 2 TD's. Mario Manninham also had a big day with 8 receptions for 126 yards including a 29 yards catch and run to setup Tynes for the game-winner in OT. This is the kind of prodcution Manningham can give when he isn't dropping the ball.
I'll give credit to Gilbride who made an honest attempt to restore the running game but the Falcons defense after being gashed the past several weeks decided that the Giants were not going to run on them. But by not abandoning the run too early, the play-action pass was still in effect and Eli torched Atlanta's secondary.
The offensive line needs to get together because they have not been playing like the unit we have been accustomed to seeing the last 2 years. Terrible blocking on both run and pass at times, moreso the running, and uncharacteristic penalties are hurting this them. In fact, penalties by the whole team have really been a problem the last several weeks.
The only down-side to yesterday's win was the defense. Having a 31-17 lead in the 4th Quarter and having to win the game in OT is inexcusable. This is now 2 game in a row that the defense has not been able to hold a lead late in the 4th Quarter. A few questions that I have for one Bill Sheridan, the Giants Defensive Coordinator:
On the last two Falcons drives, where was the rotation on the Defensive Line? As I recall, Tuck, Osi, Kiwanuka, and Robbins were out there for 95% of both drives. What's the point of being 8 or 9 guys deep at that position of not to have guys with fresh legs rushing the passer late in the game? The Falcons were obviously in passing mode being down 14 points in the 4th and so there should have D-Line subs every 2-3 plays. Clint Sintim, Dave Tollefson, Chris Canty, Bsrry Coefield and Rocky Bernard should have been rotated in during the last two drives because it was freakin obvious that the guys that were in there were tired and were getting nowhere close to Matt Ryan.
On a more postive note, I thought Chase Blackburn did a great job at Middle LB in place of Antonio Peirce. He did so on short notice and should get better over the remainder of the year as he gets the reps with the first team. It was good to see Aaron Ross out there. I saw that the Giants used him at Safety and Nickel back. As he gets healthier, I think that Bruce Johnson would be better suited for Safety because he got abused yesterday by Jenkins. Boley has a solid game and showed why we got him, tough assignment for anybody to cover Tony Gonzalez.
Its a short week for the G-Men as they head to Denver to face the struggling Broncos who have dropped 4 in a row for what should be a good game on Thanksgiving night. A quick preview:
Not sure what the health status is of Denver's QB's but that could play a big factor in this game. But no matter who is under center for the Broncos the Giants will need pressure up the middle all game because I don't trust their pass-defense against guys like Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Brandon Stokely. Eli will have to be extra careful with the ball against the crafty veteran secondary of the Broncos which yields a unit with Champ Bailey, Ty Law, and Brian Dawkins. Given time, I think that Manningham, Smith, and Nicks can do some damage against those guys. Denver is reeling and the Giants are feeling good after their win, Giants win 38-17.
Friday, November 20, 2009
IT HAS BEGUN...... MLB FREE AGENCY!!!!!!!
What, you thought Mortal Kombat was starting?????
Officially as of 12:01 AM today the MLB free agency period has started and we have already learned quite a few things that may determine the landscape of the offseason, assuming that everyone is telling the truth; players, agents, and teams.
First, Arte Moreno has made it clear that the Matt Holliday will not be an Angel. Ouch! Boy I'm sure that one really pissed Scott Boras. That takes one of the big 3 in the AL out of the running and now has probably decreased the value on Holliday. Imagine, the Angels said they would pursue Jason Bay instead, a guy who is older and according to just about everybody is a worse fielder. I think it might have something to do with the fact that Bay can hit AL pitching.
Second, John Lackey wants to starts negotiations at the Burnett deal, that is $82.5 million over 5 years is the jumping off point if you want to sign Lackey. And I'll bet a number of teams jumped right off the pursuit for Lackey once that statement was made. There have been talks of him getting Barry Zito money, 7 years $126 million, the Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins don't exist in the MLB, unless the Mets or some other desperate team makes him that ridiculous offer.
Jason Bay has already turned down a 4-year $60 million dollar offer from the Red Sox. Hard to imagine that a guy who is 31 and considered a sub-par defender would turn down that kind of money and turn down playing in a park that helps his defensive short-comings. Perhaps he and his agent are looking for a 5th year, or they think that Bay is worth 6 figures. Either way, the lack of a market for Holliday could drive the price for Bay up, it seems he is the more wanted man right now.
There are those who say that this year's free agent crop is nothing special compared to last year's or the potential for next year's. And while I agree that there are no instant impact players maybe with the exception of Lackey, there are a lot of players out there that can help teams that are already good.
I'll look for teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels, Dodgers, and Phillies to not make splashy headlines with big acquisitions, but rather supplement there already talented rosters with role players that do the small things that are required to win championships. Its only day 1, and there is plenty of more interest in the offseason to go around.
Officially as of 12:01 AM today the MLB free agency period has started and we have already learned quite a few things that may determine the landscape of the offseason, assuming that everyone is telling the truth; players, agents, and teams.
First, Arte Moreno has made it clear that the Matt Holliday will not be an Angel. Ouch! Boy I'm sure that one really pissed Scott Boras. That takes one of the big 3 in the AL out of the running and now has probably decreased the value on Holliday. Imagine, the Angels said they would pursue Jason Bay instead, a guy who is older and according to just about everybody is a worse fielder. I think it might have something to do with the fact that Bay can hit AL pitching.
Second, John Lackey wants to starts negotiations at the Burnett deal, that is $82.5 million over 5 years is the jumping off point if you want to sign Lackey. And I'll bet a number of teams jumped right off the pursuit for Lackey once that statement was made. There have been talks of him getting Barry Zito money, 7 years $126 million, the Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins don't exist in the MLB, unless the Mets or some other desperate team makes him that ridiculous offer.
Jason Bay has already turned down a 4-year $60 million dollar offer from the Red Sox. Hard to imagine that a guy who is 31 and considered a sub-par defender would turn down that kind of money and turn down playing in a park that helps his defensive short-comings. Perhaps he and his agent are looking for a 5th year, or they think that Bay is worth 6 figures. Either way, the lack of a market for Holliday could drive the price for Bay up, it seems he is the more wanted man right now.
There are those who say that this year's free agent crop is nothing special compared to last year's or the potential for next year's. And while I agree that there are no instant impact players maybe with the exception of Lackey, there are a lot of players out there that can help teams that are already good.
I'll look for teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels, Dodgers, and Phillies to not make splashy headlines with big acquisitions, but rather supplement there already talented rosters with role players that do the small things that are required to win championships. Its only day 1, and there is plenty of more interest in the offseason to go around.
KNICKS WON"T SIGN IVERSON
Allen Iverson as it turns out is not the answer for the Knicks. According to ESPN's Chris Sheridan http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4674184, a Knicks team official has said that the Knick will not be making an offer to the free agent guard.
In my opinion, I think the Knicks want to take some time to see how Eddie Curry fits in with the team and how they play with him in the lineup. Curry in his season debut had 10 points in 11 minutes.
There don't seem to be a lot of teams interested in Iverson at the moment and so it is possible that he could still be available in a few weeks time.
In my opinion, I think the Knicks want to take some time to see how Eddie Curry fits in with the team and how they play with him in the lineup. Curry in his season debut had 10 points in 11 minutes.
There don't seem to be a lot of teams interested in Iverson at the moment and so it is possible that he could still be available in a few weeks time.
JETS' SEASON ON THE LINE
Well let's hope that Rex Ryan's tears sparks something in his team because they are going to need every bit of motivation to match the intensity of the New England Patriots this Sunday.
The Jets are reeling, there is no question about it. After beginning the season with a 3-0 record, they have lost 5 of their last 6 and their record now stands at 4-5 and their season down to one game. Now most Jets fans consider the season to be over because of the loss to the Jaguars just 5 days ago. However, I am not Jets fan and do not consider the Jets' season over just yet. Things can definately turn around for them with a victory this week, easier said than done.
I chided the Jets earlier this season for the trash-talking prior to their first meeting with the Patriots, but they did back it up with a win. That was a much different Patriots team than the one the Jets will play this week. In fact, much is different for both teams entering the second meeting:
The Jets are reeling, there is no question about it. After beginning the season with a 3-0 record, they have lost 5 of their last 6 and their record now stands at 4-5 and their season down to one game. Now most Jets fans consider the season to be over because of the loss to the Jaguars just 5 days ago. However, I am not Jets fan and do not consider the Jets' season over just yet. Things can definately turn around for them with a victory this week, easier said than done.
I chided the Jets earlier this season for the trash-talking prior to their first meeting with the Patriots, but they did back it up with a win. That was a much different Patriots team than the one the Jets will play this week. In fact, much is different for both teams entering the second meeting:
- Tom Brady is back to being Tom Brady.
- Mark Sanchez is playing like a rookie.
- The Patriots defense while still not great, is better.
- Wes Welker is back for the Patriots.
- Laurence Maroney is running the ball well.
- The Jets do not have Kris Jenkins or Jim Leonard.
- The Jets do have Braylon Edwards.
- This game is in Foxboro.
- The Patriots are coming off a humiliating defeat against the Colts.
- The Jets are not coming in beating their chests, but rather with their chests beat in.
- The Patriots coach has been criticized for trying to win a game.
- The Jets coach has been laughed at because he cried in front of his team.
- It is in the Patriots head that the Jets already beat them.
But it is the fact that the Patriots are back to being the Patriots that makes this game that much more important for the Jets.
Outside of the division leaders, there are 6 teams; Steelers, Chargers, Ravens, Jaguars, Texans, and Dolphins, that have a better record than the Jets, and they are all competing for 2 playoff spots. The Jets would have to run the table if they had any shot at the post season. Most would say impossible from looking at the Jets in recent weeks. But consider this, should the Jets pull off an incredible upset and beat the Patriots in Foxboro, why can't they run the table?
After a week in which there head coach poured his heart out to the team in an effort to inspire belief in his players, and with their backs against the wall, there is no reason to think that the Jets won't come out and leave everything on the field. And should it yield a victory, the Jets remaining schedule looks like this; vs. Panthers, at Bills, at Bucs, vs. Atlanta, at Colts, vs. Bengals. The first 4 are winnable games, especially if the Jets can ride the momentum of a win against the Patriots. And by the time they play the Colts and Bengals, those teams are likely to have playoff spots and maybe bye weeks sewn up and will probably rest their starters.
It's not impossible, and there are those who dare to imagine. The Jets have not inspired much confidence in their past couple of games, but one upset victory could be the beginning of something amazing. Of course that victory will be anything but easy since the Patriots have the bitter taste of last week's loss as well as the first loss to the Jets in their mouths.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
BASEBALL FREE AGENCY LOOMING
The start of the free-agent period for baseball begins at approximately 12:01AM tonight or tomorrow morning depending how anal you are as a person. And while this year's crop of free-agents is not as star-studded as least year's, there is no shortage of intrigue as far as who is going to go where, or which team is going to do what. In particular, the two New York franchises who have money to spend, holes to fill, and very different free-agent successes.
The Mets have endured a rough 4-year stretch since the ending of the 2006 season the dismal 2009 season. Carlos Beltran looking at strike 3 that sends the Mets home from the playoffs, back-to-back years collapsing down the stretch failing to make the playoffs after having division leads in September, and this past season which was filled with lots of injuries, a new ballpark, and many strange headlines with regard to organizational management blaming their woes on media and wanting to fight their own players. But with the offseason comes new hope.
The Mets have money coming off the books and they have many needs if they are to change the ways of the past three years. And it all starts with pitching. They have the Grand Canyon of ballparks and therefore it is essential for the Mets to add a starter or two behind Johan Santanna and improve a bullpen that simply stinks up until you get to K-Rod. This should make signing both John Lackey and Jason Marquis top priority for the Mets. Marquis has already expressed his desire to come to the Mets and outbidding everyone for Lackey is something the Mets are capable of doing. That would give the Mets a solid 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation and create competition for the 3,4, and 5 spot among Marquis, Niese, Pelfrey, and Maine. The one that doesn't cut the mustard can be used as a long relief option in the bullpen. There are also a slew of quality relievers out there that the Mets should also look into in order to protect the leads that they get. Brandon Lyon and Rafael Betancourt are both capable setup guys who would provide instant improvement to a bullpen that has struggled for 3 years in a row. I know most Mets fans want them to trade for Roy Halladay but the Mets simply cannot do this. They have crippled themselves with similar moves in recent years, Johan Santanna and JJ Putz. To have to trade prospects (the Mets are clearly lacking a quality farm system) and then give a big contract extension is a double-whammy to an organization that cannot take a single-whammy at this point.
If the Mets strengthen their pitching, then there is less emphasis needed on getting a power bat. In that cavernous ballpark, the Mets should emphasize speed and line-drive hitters. Especially because both Jason Bay and Matt Holliday are Type-A free-agents which means that not only would you have to pay them big money, but forfeit draft picks, again double-whammy. With David Wright and Carlos Beltran coming back, the focus should on those second tier free agents that would supplement a lineup that is already pretty decent, when healthy that is. Additions like a Scott Podsednik to left field would provide good defense because of his speed as well as a guy to bat behind Jose Reyes in the 2 spot. Hank Blalock would be a nice addition to platoon first base with Daniel Murphy. Blalock a left bat who hit 25 HR's last year would fit in the 6th or 7th spot.
These move may not be popular, but they are the moves that the Mets should make. Upgrade the pitching staff both starting and the bullpen. The lineup if supplemented correctly through free-agency and with the players that they have, should fit nicely with their ballpark.
The only remaining questions are can Omar Minaya be expected to make the right moves? Nothing he has done recently inspires any faith. The other question is can Jerry Manuel bring a small-ball type strategy to a team that could not do so last year playing with a triple-A team? He used the injury card all year last year, what will be the excuse if the Mets fail this year? Lots of questions and issues surrounding this franchise and hopefully smart decisions starting tomorrow will the beginning of a turn-around.
The Mets have endured a rough 4-year stretch since the ending of the 2006 season the dismal 2009 season. Carlos Beltran looking at strike 3 that sends the Mets home from the playoffs, back-to-back years collapsing down the stretch failing to make the playoffs after having division leads in September, and this past season which was filled with lots of injuries, a new ballpark, and many strange headlines with regard to organizational management blaming their woes on media and wanting to fight their own players. But with the offseason comes new hope.
The Mets have money coming off the books and they have many needs if they are to change the ways of the past three years. And it all starts with pitching. They have the Grand Canyon of ballparks and therefore it is essential for the Mets to add a starter or two behind Johan Santanna and improve a bullpen that simply stinks up until you get to K-Rod. This should make signing both John Lackey and Jason Marquis top priority for the Mets. Marquis has already expressed his desire to come to the Mets and outbidding everyone for Lackey is something the Mets are capable of doing. That would give the Mets a solid 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation and create competition for the 3,4, and 5 spot among Marquis, Niese, Pelfrey, and Maine. The one that doesn't cut the mustard can be used as a long relief option in the bullpen. There are also a slew of quality relievers out there that the Mets should also look into in order to protect the leads that they get. Brandon Lyon and Rafael Betancourt are both capable setup guys who would provide instant improvement to a bullpen that has struggled for 3 years in a row. I know most Mets fans want them to trade for Roy Halladay but the Mets simply cannot do this. They have crippled themselves with similar moves in recent years, Johan Santanna and JJ Putz. To have to trade prospects (the Mets are clearly lacking a quality farm system) and then give a big contract extension is a double-whammy to an organization that cannot take a single-whammy at this point.
If the Mets strengthen their pitching, then there is less emphasis needed on getting a power bat. In that cavernous ballpark, the Mets should emphasize speed and line-drive hitters. Especially because both Jason Bay and Matt Holliday are Type-A free-agents which means that not only would you have to pay them big money, but forfeit draft picks, again double-whammy. With David Wright and Carlos Beltran coming back, the focus should on those second tier free agents that would supplement a lineup that is already pretty decent, when healthy that is. Additions like a Scott Podsednik to left field would provide good defense because of his speed as well as a guy to bat behind Jose Reyes in the 2 spot. Hank Blalock would be a nice addition to platoon first base with Daniel Murphy. Blalock a left bat who hit 25 HR's last year would fit in the 6th or 7th spot.
These move may not be popular, but they are the moves that the Mets should make. Upgrade the pitching staff both starting and the bullpen. The lineup if supplemented correctly through free-agency and with the players that they have, should fit nicely with their ballpark.
The only remaining questions are can Omar Minaya be expected to make the right moves? Nothing he has done recently inspires any faith. The other question is can Jerry Manuel bring a small-ball type strategy to a team that could not do so last year playing with a triple-A team? He used the injury card all year last year, what will be the excuse if the Mets fail this year? Lots of questions and issues surrounding this franchise and hopefully smart decisions starting tomorrow will the beginning of a turn-around.
ALLEN IVERSON: IS HE REALLY THE ANSWER????
For the struggling 2009 Knicks, the answer happens to be "The Answer" Allen Iverson. With Eddie Curry making an impressive debut last night with his slimmed-down self, the Knicks need to sign Iverson to a one-year deal.
Forget all the bullshit coming out of people's mouths that Iverson will hinder the development of the Knicks' young players. BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!! The Knicks cannot get any worse than they are right now. The only thing that Iverson would do is limit the minutes that Larry Hughes and Chris Duhon would get which is a good thing. As Curry works his way back to being the low-post threat the Knicks so desperately need, having Iverson handle the ball with an outside shooter like Gallo would make the Knicks watchable, and dare I say possible contenders among the Eastern Conference bottom-feeders that will be fighting over the 7-8 seeds. The answer is yes!!!!
Mix in the double-double man himself David Lee and some scoring here and there from the likes of Harrington, Chandler, Douglas and Robinson and the Knicks can win games. Not to mention the drive to win that Iverson would bring to this dead-beat team. In addition, signing him to a 1-year deal does not effect the plans of 2010 and his presence on the outside might free up room on the inside for Curry. If Eddie Curry and string together a stretch of games where he shows he can be a legitimate lost-post threat again, Walsh can dangle him out there to teams who are thinking championship and need a Center. Thus freeing up even more cap space, enough to attract 2 stars instead of 1.
Make the deal Walsh and get Iverson here, we know its all about the summer but we Knicks fans are about ready to gouge out eyes out if the team we have been watching is the team we have to watch the rest of the year. The short-term answer is "The Answer", go and get him.
Forget all the bullshit coming out of people's mouths that Iverson will hinder the development of the Knicks' young players. BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!! The Knicks cannot get any worse than they are right now. The only thing that Iverson would do is limit the minutes that Larry Hughes and Chris Duhon would get which is a good thing. As Curry works his way back to being the low-post threat the Knicks so desperately need, having Iverson handle the ball with an outside shooter like Gallo would make the Knicks watchable, and dare I say possible contenders among the Eastern Conference bottom-feeders that will be fighting over the 7-8 seeds. The answer is yes!!!!
Mix in the double-double man himself David Lee and some scoring here and there from the likes of Harrington, Chandler, Douglas and Robinson and the Knicks can win games. Not to mention the drive to win that Iverson would bring to this dead-beat team. In addition, signing him to a 1-year deal does not effect the plans of 2010 and his presence on the outside might free up room on the inside for Curry. If Eddie Curry and string together a stretch of games where he shows he can be a legitimate lost-post threat again, Walsh can dangle him out there to teams who are thinking championship and need a Center. Thus freeing up even more cap space, enough to attract 2 stars instead of 1.
Make the deal Walsh and get Iverson here, we know its all about the summer but we Knicks fans are about ready to gouge out eyes out if the team we have been watching is the team we have to watch the rest of the year. The short-term answer is "The Answer", go and get him.
Monday, November 16, 2009
OH THOSE DREADFUL KNICKS
Since Donnie Walsh has taken over the Knicks, he has said that it is all about getting under the cap and the free-agent class of 2010. As a Knick fan I bought it because of what had transpired in years past that put the franchise in the state that it was in when Walsh took over.
Let's revisit some of the moves and decisions made from years past:
Scott Layden and his decision to give large contracts to the like of aging stars Allan Houston and Larry Johnson crippled the Knicks in the long term as both players were being paid guranteed money long after they were done playing. Couple that with moves of trading Patrick Ewing for I don't even remember who, trading Glenn Rice for the hefty contracts of bum players like Howard Eisley and Shandon Anderson, drafting and then trading Nene for Antonio McDyess who did not play a game as a Knick, and much more. Now as bad as these moves were and as bad a flux the team was in, it was still fixable over a short period of time. Welcome Isaiah Thomas!!
Upon his arrival, he decided that it would be impossible to get under the cap, so he decided to take on as much cap as possible with the least amount of talent possible, while sacrificing future draft picks, a great plan to run a franchise into the ground, even one in New York. The disaster that was the Marbury trade that is still having lingering effects today as the lottery-bound Knicks do not have a first rounder in the coming draft. He took on contracts of Penny Hardaway and sacrificed unprotected first round picks that could have yielded a Brandon Roy or LaMarcus Aldridge (had Chicago with the Knicks picks taken them) for Eddie Curry. While buried in cap he decided to give Jared Jeffries a contract that doubled in value because of the luxury tax. He traded away the expiring contract of Hardaway and the young, talented Trevor Ariza for Steve Francis at the behest of then coach Larry Brown, another brilliant move. The signings of Jerome James and Jamal Crawford, trading for Zach Randolph, and never establishing a true team with any kind of chemistry or core. Enter Donnie Walsh.
His first move was hiring a player-friendly coach in Mike D'Antoni who is friends with just about every player in the NBA except for Stephon Marbury, whoops, I forgot that Marbury is not in the NBA at the current moment. Yet, for some reason that guys keeps yapping his gums about the Knicks, as if he did so much for the team while he was here. And hey Marbury I guess we all missed something, your so good that no team in the NBA wants you. In addition to the hiring of D'Antoni, whose system made Jamal Crawford and Zach Randolph look like All-Star's and tradeable, Donnie Walsh has finally gotten the Knicks under the cap. They are now in a position to target free-agents who can come in and make an instant impact on the team.
The only thing they must do now is play all the young guys. Al Harrington, Larry Hughes, Chris Duhon, Nate Robinson, and/or David Lee are all likely not to be here next year, so why are they getting all of the minutes???? There is this season, and this season alone for LeBron, Wade, Bosh and all the others to see what kind of cast they will they have around them should they come to New York. The starting 5 should include Tony Douglas, Wilson Chandler, Gallo, and Jordan Hill, and they should all be 30-35 minutes a night. This is the year for them to learn and get better. There is no making the playoffs anyway so you might as well get the young guys on the floor as much as possible. That equation only changes if and when Eddie Curry gets back on the floor in hopes that a team like the Jazz, Nuggets, Toronto, or Dallas need a low post presence in their effort to make a run in the playoffs. If the Knicks can get Curry and/or Jeffries off the books, they are guranteed to land 2 free-agents in the summer. Perhaps you could then convince LeBron and Wade to both come here, or some combination of all the stars that will be testing the market.
Play the young guys and lets see what they have to offer. Douglas has impressed, Gallo has shown flashes, Hill the other night looked with the exception of the fouls, and Chandler needs to be on the floor much more if he is to have a breakout game soon. We know that its all about 2010 but you gotta make 2009 somewhat entertaining, this team is not even watchable right now.
Let's revisit some of the moves and decisions made from years past:
Scott Layden and his decision to give large contracts to the like of aging stars Allan Houston and Larry Johnson crippled the Knicks in the long term as both players were being paid guranteed money long after they were done playing. Couple that with moves of trading Patrick Ewing for I don't even remember who, trading Glenn Rice for the hefty contracts of bum players like Howard Eisley and Shandon Anderson, drafting and then trading Nene for Antonio McDyess who did not play a game as a Knick, and much more. Now as bad as these moves were and as bad a flux the team was in, it was still fixable over a short period of time. Welcome Isaiah Thomas!!
Upon his arrival, he decided that it would be impossible to get under the cap, so he decided to take on as much cap as possible with the least amount of talent possible, while sacrificing future draft picks, a great plan to run a franchise into the ground, even one in New York. The disaster that was the Marbury trade that is still having lingering effects today as the lottery-bound Knicks do not have a first rounder in the coming draft. He took on contracts of Penny Hardaway and sacrificed unprotected first round picks that could have yielded a Brandon Roy or LaMarcus Aldridge (had Chicago with the Knicks picks taken them) for Eddie Curry. While buried in cap he decided to give Jared Jeffries a contract that doubled in value because of the luxury tax. He traded away the expiring contract of Hardaway and the young, talented Trevor Ariza for Steve Francis at the behest of then coach Larry Brown, another brilliant move. The signings of Jerome James and Jamal Crawford, trading for Zach Randolph, and never establishing a true team with any kind of chemistry or core. Enter Donnie Walsh.
His first move was hiring a player-friendly coach in Mike D'Antoni who is friends with just about every player in the NBA except for Stephon Marbury, whoops, I forgot that Marbury is not in the NBA at the current moment. Yet, for some reason that guys keeps yapping his gums about the Knicks, as if he did so much for the team while he was here. And hey Marbury I guess we all missed something, your so good that no team in the NBA wants you. In addition to the hiring of D'Antoni, whose system made Jamal Crawford and Zach Randolph look like All-Star's and tradeable, Donnie Walsh has finally gotten the Knicks under the cap. They are now in a position to target free-agents who can come in and make an instant impact on the team.
The only thing they must do now is play all the young guys. Al Harrington, Larry Hughes, Chris Duhon, Nate Robinson, and/or David Lee are all likely not to be here next year, so why are they getting all of the minutes???? There is this season, and this season alone for LeBron, Wade, Bosh and all the others to see what kind of cast they will they have around them should they come to New York. The starting 5 should include Tony Douglas, Wilson Chandler, Gallo, and Jordan Hill, and they should all be 30-35 minutes a night. This is the year for them to learn and get better. There is no making the playoffs anyway so you might as well get the young guys on the floor as much as possible. That equation only changes if and when Eddie Curry gets back on the floor in hopes that a team like the Jazz, Nuggets, Toronto, or Dallas need a low post presence in their effort to make a run in the playoffs. If the Knicks can get Curry and/or Jeffries off the books, they are guranteed to land 2 free-agents in the summer. Perhaps you could then convince LeBron and Wade to both come here, or some combination of all the stars that will be testing the market.
Play the young guys and lets see what they have to offer. Douglas has impressed, Gallo has shown flashes, Hill the other night looked with the exception of the fouls, and Chandler needs to be on the floor much more if he is to have a breakout game soon. We know that its all about 2010 but you gotta make 2009 somewhat entertaining, this team is not even watchable right now.
GIANTS HAVE THEIR BEST WEEK IN A WHILE
Low and behold the New York Giants had their best week since the Oakland Raiders game and they did not even have to step on the field.
This past weekend the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons all lost, and not just their games either. With the losses of Dallas and Philly, the Giants climbed into a second-place tie with the Eagles and are just one game back of the division leading Cowboys. The Eagles may have lost Brian Westbrook for the season due to a concussion and the Cowboys lost OL Marc Columbo for the season to a broken fibula. Meanwhile the Giants were home, and hopefully getting healthy both physically and mentally.
Last week Aaron Ross was able to practice for the first time in ages. We all know how much help the secondary needs right now. Hopefully, this can place Terrell Thomas or Bruce JOhnson permanently at Safety. Boley and Canty, the expensive off-season pickups played against the Chargers to shake off rust and with the extra week should be ready to go the rest of the way. And most importantly, the whole team was away from football and hopefully took the time they needed to relax and not think too much about the 4-game losing streak. Hopefully the coaching staff also got their minds right and came up with a solid gameplan for the Atlanta Falcons.
Speaking of the Falcons, they also lost which dropped them to 5-4, same record as the Giants. More importantly Michael Turner injured his ankle and may be out against the Giants, and Matt Ryan is also struggling at the moment. For the first time this year the Giants have caught a huge break in that they are back in the division race, coming off a bye, and playing a team that may be without its best offensive weapon when it comes to the Meadowlands in 6 days.
Now go out there, beat the Falcons, re-establish yourselves, and make a run at the playoffs like you are capable of doing.
This past weekend the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons all lost, and not just their games either. With the losses of Dallas and Philly, the Giants climbed into a second-place tie with the Eagles and are just one game back of the division leading Cowboys. The Eagles may have lost Brian Westbrook for the season due to a concussion and the Cowboys lost OL Marc Columbo for the season to a broken fibula. Meanwhile the Giants were home, and hopefully getting healthy both physically and mentally.
Last week Aaron Ross was able to practice for the first time in ages. We all know how much help the secondary needs right now. Hopefully, this can place Terrell Thomas or Bruce JOhnson permanently at Safety. Boley and Canty, the expensive off-season pickups played against the Chargers to shake off rust and with the extra week should be ready to go the rest of the way. And most importantly, the whole team was away from football and hopefully took the time they needed to relax and not think too much about the 4-game losing streak. Hopefully the coaching staff also got their minds right and came up with a solid gameplan for the Atlanta Falcons.
Speaking of the Falcons, they also lost which dropped them to 5-4, same record as the Giants. More importantly Michael Turner injured his ankle and may be out against the Giants, and Matt Ryan is also struggling at the moment. For the first time this year the Giants have caught a huge break in that they are back in the division race, coming off a bye, and playing a team that may be without its best offensive weapon when it comes to the Meadowlands in 6 days.
Now go out there, beat the Falcons, re-establish yourselves, and make a run at the playoffs like you are capable of doing.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
WHAT THE YANKEES SHOULD DO NOW
Now that the Yankees have won their 27th World Series, here are some thoughts on the season and what they should do this winter in order to repeat as champs.
This season we saw a lot from these Yankees, the core four were as reliable as ever, especially during the World Series, free agents to-be Damon and Matsui made Yankee personnel decisions even tougher after the playoffs, A-Rod is a completely different player, we saw some young talent develop that could play big roles in the upcoming season, and the the free agents we signed last year have been worth every penny thus far.
Now comes the offseason and the Yankees have some decisions to make about the upcoming season. The Yankeed should let Nady, Molina, Guzman, Hairston, and Hinske walk, all can easily be replaced by younger, better, more athletic players. Cervelli will take up the backup catcher position, Ramiro Pena can serve as a super-utility role-player. The Yankees should make 1-year offers to Pettite and Damon. If and only if Damon does not take the 1-year offer, then make the 1-year offer to Matsui.
I think that Yankees should stay away from Matt Holiday, Jason Bay, John Lackey, and Curtis Granderson. I think that a trade for Roy Halladay is a must. With the Derek Jeter negotiations looming next year, as well as a potential bidding war with Red Sox over Joe Mauer, it would be in the Yankees best interest to acquire Halladay now before they lose out on him to somebody else. Especially if Damon takes a multi-year deal elsewhere and Pettite decides to retire, it makes the most sense. Potential trade chips could be either Joba or Hughes packaged along with: Cano and two minor leaguers, or Melky/Romine or Montero, or Austin Jackson.
A frontline pitching staff of Halladay, CC, AJ, with Wang hopefully back by May and a bullpen with Robertson, Coke, Marte, Hughes/Joba, and Mo, together with the Yankee lineup pretty much guarantees a repeat in 2010.
This season we saw a lot from these Yankees, the core four were as reliable as ever, especially during the World Series, free agents to-be Damon and Matsui made Yankee personnel decisions even tougher after the playoffs, A-Rod is a completely different player, we saw some young talent develop that could play big roles in the upcoming season, and the the free agents we signed last year have been worth every penny thus far.
Now comes the offseason and the Yankees have some decisions to make about the upcoming season. The Yankeed should let Nady, Molina, Guzman, Hairston, and Hinske walk, all can easily be replaced by younger, better, more athletic players. Cervelli will take up the backup catcher position, Ramiro Pena can serve as a super-utility role-player. The Yankees should make 1-year offers to Pettite and Damon. If and only if Damon does not take the 1-year offer, then make the 1-year offer to Matsui.
I think that Yankees should stay away from Matt Holiday, Jason Bay, John Lackey, and Curtis Granderson. I think that a trade for Roy Halladay is a must. With the Derek Jeter negotiations looming next year, as well as a potential bidding war with Red Sox over Joe Mauer, it would be in the Yankees best interest to acquire Halladay now before they lose out on him to somebody else. Especially if Damon takes a multi-year deal elsewhere and Pettite decides to retire, it makes the most sense. Potential trade chips could be either Joba or Hughes packaged along with: Cano and two minor leaguers, or Melky/Romine or Montero, or Austin Jackson.
A frontline pitching staff of Halladay, CC, AJ, with Wang hopefully back by May and a bullpen with Robertson, Coke, Marte, Hughes/Joba, and Mo, together with the Yankee lineup pretty much guarantees a repeat in 2010.
Monday, November 2, 2009
YANKS TAKE A 3-1 SERIES LEAD
Well after 4 games the Yankees lead the Phillies 3 games to 1 in the World Series. And make no bones about it, its all about pitching and a few heads up plays.
After AJ Burnett pitched a gem in Game 2 to help even the series at 1 game apiece, the Yankee bats finally awoke in Game 3, especially that of Nick Swisher's. Andy Pettite easily outpitched Cole Hammels and even had an RBI single himself off of Hammels to score Swisher. The Yankeed bullpen finished the job with Mariano Rivera getting a 6 out save.
Game 4 provided a bit more drama and by far has been the best game in this series thus far. The Yankees jumped out on Joe Blanton for 2 quick runs in the top of the 1st. The Phillies answered with 1 in the bottom of the inning against CC Sabbathia. However, through the rest of the game, every time the Phillies landed a punch, the Yankees would immediately counter-punch, until Johnny Damon delivered a staggering 3-hit combo in the top of 9th, followed by a right-cross by A-Rod, and then the knockout blow by Posada.
You have to like the Phillies aggression with Ryan Howard getting a steal and eventually coming around to score to tie the game at 2. The top of the Phillies lineup has struggled mightly with Rollins, Victorino, and Utley all batting sub .200 for the series and Ryan Howard approaching the dubious strikeout record for a World Series. The Phillies have to find their offense and fast if they want to make this World Series even close.
But referring back to my lead, its been all about pitching. The Phillies got a stellar performance out of Cliff Lee in game 1 where he pitched 9 innings and did not give up an earned run. They won. The next game AJ Burnett pitched 7 innings allowing 1 run, and while Pedro Martinez pitched good, he was outdueled by Burnett, the Yankees won. Game 3 Andy Pettite pitched great and Cole Hammels did not, Yankees win again.
Game 4 was something different. With the Yankees leading 4-3 with 2 out in the 7th inning and Sabbathia still on the hill, Chase Utley steps up to the plate and smacks a solo home-run. Surprise, it's only the third time he has done that off of Sabbathia, but here is the real stat, in this series against Sabbathia Utley is 4-6 with 3 HR's, the rest of the Phillies lineup is 7-45 no HR's. The Phillies have launched 7 HR's in this series, but all have been solo HR's. Pedro Feliz contributed the 7th solo shot off of Joba Chamberlain in the bottom of the 8th after Joba struck out the Werth and Ibanez. Twice the Phillies had a mini - two - out rally. The game was not tied heading into the 9th inning with Brad Lidge taking the mound.
Lidge gets the first two outs against Hideki Matsui and Mr. November Derek Jeter, no easy task in a clutch situation. But then Johnny Damon came to bat and would transpire next is probably one the gratest things to ever happen in the World Series and in baseball history. After a 9-pitch at bat, Damon lines a single to left. With 2 outs and a man on first Mark Teixeira comes up to bat and the Phillies put the shift on Teixeira with him being a pull-hitter from the left side. On the very first pitch to Teixeira Damon takes off for second, the throw to second by Ruiz is late and fielded by third baseman Feliz. Damon is safe at second and with Lidge on the mound and no one to cover third base, Johnny Damon pops to his feet and takes off for third, which he takes with ease. TWO STOLEN BASES ON ONE PITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!!! At that the moment the Phillies lost all momentum they had from the game-tying HR to Lidge getting Matsui and Jeter out. Next he hits Teixeira, and then serves a fastball over the plate to A-Rod who line an RBI double to left. Second and third 2 outs. Next Jorge Posada lines a 2 RBI single and gets thrown out trying to take 2nd. Enter Mariano Rivera, Yankees take a 3-1 lead.
Coming into this series these teams were as evenly matched as you could get with minor advantages here and there. But right now the Yankees are simply playing better. They are getting the timely hits, the top of their lineup is producing, and their pitching has been better with the exception of Cliff Lee. Lee take the mound tonight against Burnett which promises to be a duel, but Phillies have their back against the wall and have to literally come out swinging. Their season is on the line, and the Yankees could not be playing better.
After AJ Burnett pitched a gem in Game 2 to help even the series at 1 game apiece, the Yankee bats finally awoke in Game 3, especially that of Nick Swisher's. Andy Pettite easily outpitched Cole Hammels and even had an RBI single himself off of Hammels to score Swisher. The Yankeed bullpen finished the job with Mariano Rivera getting a 6 out save.
Game 4 provided a bit more drama and by far has been the best game in this series thus far. The Yankees jumped out on Joe Blanton for 2 quick runs in the top of the 1st. The Phillies answered with 1 in the bottom of the inning against CC Sabbathia. However, through the rest of the game, every time the Phillies landed a punch, the Yankees would immediately counter-punch, until Johnny Damon delivered a staggering 3-hit combo in the top of 9th, followed by a right-cross by A-Rod, and then the knockout blow by Posada.
You have to like the Phillies aggression with Ryan Howard getting a steal and eventually coming around to score to tie the game at 2. The top of the Phillies lineup has struggled mightly with Rollins, Victorino, and Utley all batting sub .200 for the series and Ryan Howard approaching the dubious strikeout record for a World Series. The Phillies have to find their offense and fast if they want to make this World Series even close.
But referring back to my lead, its been all about pitching. The Phillies got a stellar performance out of Cliff Lee in game 1 where he pitched 9 innings and did not give up an earned run. They won. The next game AJ Burnett pitched 7 innings allowing 1 run, and while Pedro Martinez pitched good, he was outdueled by Burnett, the Yankees won. Game 3 Andy Pettite pitched great and Cole Hammels did not, Yankees win again.
Game 4 was something different. With the Yankees leading 4-3 with 2 out in the 7th inning and Sabbathia still on the hill, Chase Utley steps up to the plate and smacks a solo home-run. Surprise, it's only the third time he has done that off of Sabbathia, but here is the real stat, in this series against Sabbathia Utley is 4-6 with 3 HR's, the rest of the Phillies lineup is 7-45 no HR's. The Phillies have launched 7 HR's in this series, but all have been solo HR's. Pedro Feliz contributed the 7th solo shot off of Joba Chamberlain in the bottom of the 8th after Joba struck out the Werth and Ibanez. Twice the Phillies had a mini - two - out rally. The game was not tied heading into the 9th inning with Brad Lidge taking the mound.
Lidge gets the first two outs against Hideki Matsui and Mr. November Derek Jeter, no easy task in a clutch situation. But then Johnny Damon came to bat and would transpire next is probably one the gratest things to ever happen in the World Series and in baseball history. After a 9-pitch at bat, Damon lines a single to left. With 2 outs and a man on first Mark Teixeira comes up to bat and the Phillies put the shift on Teixeira with him being a pull-hitter from the left side. On the very first pitch to Teixeira Damon takes off for second, the throw to second by Ruiz is late and fielded by third baseman Feliz. Damon is safe at second and with Lidge on the mound and no one to cover third base, Johnny Damon pops to his feet and takes off for third, which he takes with ease. TWO STOLEN BASES ON ONE PITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!!! At that the moment the Phillies lost all momentum they had from the game-tying HR to Lidge getting Matsui and Jeter out. Next he hits Teixeira, and then serves a fastball over the plate to A-Rod who line an RBI double to left. Second and third 2 outs. Next Jorge Posada lines a 2 RBI single and gets thrown out trying to take 2nd. Enter Mariano Rivera, Yankees take a 3-1 lead.
Coming into this series these teams were as evenly matched as you could get with minor advantages here and there. But right now the Yankees are simply playing better. They are getting the timely hits, the top of their lineup is producing, and their pitching has been better with the exception of Cliff Lee. Lee take the mound tonight against Burnett which promises to be a duel, but Phillies have their back against the wall and have to literally come out swinging. Their season is on the line, and the Yankees could not be playing better.
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