Local
Julio Nunez hits 2nd Home Run in Alabama A&M loss to Auburn
Alabama A&M Men's Basketball lets Alcorn St. slip by
Alabama A&M softball hosts Tuskeegee
UNA Baseball matchup for 2/25 with Treveca moved to Nashville
UNA Football gears up for Spring Practice
#3 UAH softball sweeps Stillman
UAH Baseball visits Stillman in Mid-Week game
Live Updates from Alabama's Final 48
Regional
UAB Basketball Coach Jarrod Haase doesn't want the team to be fat and happy after 2 wins
South Alabama must get more wins to get in conference tournament
SEC Men's Basketball: Georgia dominates Missouri
Florida claims share of SEC Championship in Men's Basketball with a win at Vanderbilt
National
Former Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez involved in jail altercation
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones states the obvious
Arizona leaders fear law could relocate Super Bowl
Louisville Football recruit arrested for impregnating cousin
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Our Big Fat Stupid Society 2/26/14
Teenager gets in a accident while trying to film an accident (Boston.com)
Building walls will prevent tornadoes allegedly (USA Today)
Ms Colon has not been penetrated in years, calls 911, gets arrested (NY Times)
Katy Perry pisses off Muslims....somehow (SF Gate)
Man convicted of tax fraud wants Bentley and jewelry back.......priorities (Tampa Tribune)
Screw Disease, we may be able to figure out what dogs are saying (South China Morning Post)
Marijuana flavor/scented condoms....yep....this happened and you don't have to inhale (Cannadom)
Where's the Beef? Or Who's been in it? (Herkimier, NY)
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Tennessee fans to Bruce Pearl: I Want You Back (Oh and Alabama wants you too)
If you thought that "Gruden-Mania" was bad after Derek Dooley was fired as the Tennessee Volunteer football coach, it seems that natives of Knoxville are already wanting to phone an ex-girlfriend so to speak. They seemed to laugh like little girls at Alabama hiring Lane Kiffin as the offensive co-ordinator like seeing an ex marrying a fat chick.
Speaking of Alabama, it seems that the Tuscaloosans are interested in Pearl's services if the Tide fires Anthony Grant.
No matter a show cause, the aroma of desperation lingers through most of the SEC. I guess it's forget the past and win at all cost.
I have nothing personal against Bruce Pearl, he was a good coach. However, the show cause penalty still leaves me a little pessimistic about bringing him back, even if he has repented of his NCAA sins.
Not even after his third year, Cuonzo Martin is already "feeling heat". This is with 116-80 (28-20 in conference). But, the natives are crying out Bruce Pearl it seems. Obviously Tennessee wants to win, at any cause. I don't know if Bruce Pearl wants to get back into coaching or not, he seems like he enjoys the TV booth.
Tennessee isn't exactly like South Carolina or Alabama when it comes to basketball, they just lack consistency.
Speaking of Alabama, it seems that the Tuscaloosans are interested in Pearl's services if the Tide fires Anthony Grant.
No matter a show cause, the aroma of desperation lingers through most of the SEC. I guess it's forget the past and win at all cost.
I have nothing personal against Bruce Pearl, he was a good coach. However, the show cause penalty still leaves me a little pessimistic about bringing him back, even if he has repented of his NCAA sins.
Our Big Fat Stupid Society 2/24/14
A feature that I once had on a radio show that I have decided to bring back to the blog. A feature that includes the funny, sad, and downright stupid of our society with even a little sports and entertainment trickled in. Here's the inaugural edition of OUR BIG FAT STUPID SOCIETY.
Fracking gives you Gonorrhea (Vice)
Peeping Tom gets his ass beat (11 Alive/Atlanta)
Grandmother in Richmond, VA gets unpleasant receipt (CBS 6/Richmond, VA)
Washington lobbyist wants to protect Heterosexual sports jobs (Yahoo!)
Tampa woman declares a State of Emergency of Raw Waffles (TIME)
Alec Baldwin wants to leave public eye, writes publicly about it (Vulture)
Man convicted of 8th DUI gets 6 years, that'll teach him (San Diego Tribune)
Because prank calling the Police is a brilliant idea #sarcasm (Gadsden Times)
Man demands refund from Dominos after burning his sausage fooling around with a pizza (Gawker)
Submit your articles to @OnTheMarksRadio on twitter, Facebook, or in the comments section and they could be featured on the daily edition of Our Big Fat Stupid Society.
Monday, February 24, 2014
OTM Daily Action 2/24/14
New York +4.5 vs. Dallas
Syracuse vs. Maryland (Under)
Eastern Washington -7 vs. Portland St.
New Orleans +4 vs. LA Clippers
Golden State -3 @ Detroit
Boston +3 @ Utah
Kansas -11 vs. Oklahoma
The NFL wants to eliminate the N-Word; Maybe society should do the same (AND I MEAN EVERYONE!)
It looks like the NFL is trying to do something that society should be doing, but failing miserably at it. The NFL is proposing a rule for an automatic 15 yard penalty for use of the "N" word or other racial slurs.
In the grand scheme of things, this wouldn't eliminate the use of racial slurs entirely, but at least the NFL is trying. For that, I'll give them credit.
The reaction on social media has been somewhat thoughtful and also amusing.
He might be right, which is unfortunate. What this tells me is that instead of working together to maybe eliminate words or slurs that have no societal benefit whatsoever, will turn into an argument of entitlement and double standards. Do I really need to explain?
Name one societal benefit pertaining to the use of the "N" word without sounding ignorant and bigoted, and I'll show you a beach house in Denver. Neither one of those exist.
Irony? I've said this before and I'll say it again. How many people, white, black, Hispanic, Asian, or any other ethnicity use Redskin in their daily vocabulary as a racial slur? Very few compared to the word and other slurs in question. The tweet above is equivalent to what we call in our business as a stretch.
If you are a white person trying to justify the use of the "N" word because the black guys are using it as friendly term, STOP!
If you are a black person trying to justify the use of it by saying the white guys used a long time ago, STOP!
I agree with the NFL on this. Although it's not a fool-proof solution to the problem, at least they're trying.
We can all agree that this word has worn out it's welcome and has only caused division rather than unity. There's no exceptions, this word needs to go. Not only in the NFL, but our society as well.
However, call me pessimistic, this will spark stupid and unproductive debates when the end-all solution is staring us right in the face.
The NFL is trying, and maybe we ALL should as well and give this word a much overdue funeral. NO EXCEPTIONS. PERIOD.
SEC NFL Combine Tracker
Here is your simple, Organized way to keep up with SEC alum that are in the NFL Combine. I have made it a simple one-way to keep track of your favorite SEC teams.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
OTM NFL Combine Report 2/23/14
The NFL Combine is an opportunity to send your stock soaring or send your stock plummeting. The Big Names that are constantly mentioned are Teddy Bridgewater, Jadaveon Clowney, Johnny Manziel, and AJ McCarron to name a few.
We'll start our SEC Review with the Alabama Crimson Tide (links provided by NFL.com with Combine Grades) Cyrus Kouandjio did not have an impressive day. Only 21 reps on the bench press and a 5.59 40 yd dash can leave this projected 1st rounder with a lot of questions to ask. When you think of Kevin Norwood, you're reminded of his impressive catches that leave your jaw dropped. His strength however, is not jawdropping with only 8 reps. However, his runs of 4.39 and 4.48 in the 40 could give him some looks. He's currently graded at 5.15 (better than average with a chance to make NFL Roster). AJ McCarron feels as if he is overlooked and disrespected, but I don't think it's for his speed with a 4.91 40 yd dash. Even though his day is not finished His current grade is 5.65 (Chance to become an NFL starter). Other Crimson Tide players in the combine can be tracked here: Deion Belue, Ha-Ha Clinton Dix, Adrian Hubbard, Cody Mandell, CJ Mosley, Jeoffery Pagan, Anthony Steen, Ed Stinson, and Vinnie Sunseri.
For the Auburn Tigers, the star in this combine has so far been OL Greg Robinson. Running a 4.92, 32 Bench press reps, and a broad jump of 113 in, he has helped his stock in this draft with a current rating of 6.75 (Chance to be Pro-Bowl caliber). You can track the rest of the Auburn combine participants: Tre Mason, Dee Ford, Chris Davis, and Steven Clark.
A lot of beef was invited to the combine for the Tennessee Volunteers. Antonio "Tiny" Richardson showed his strength with 36 Bench press reps, but didn't really wow anyone with a 40 time of 5.3 and a 24.5 vertical jump. However, not enough to scare off anyone. He currently has a 5.6 combine grade (Chance to become an NFL starter). Ja'Waun James didn't help his hopes with 22 bench press reps, but still holds a 5.65 combine grade (Chance to become an NFL starter). You can track other Tennessee Volunteers here: Zach Fulton, James Stone, and Daniel McCullers.
Other Notable performances in the SEC were Florida TE Trey Burton running a 4.62 40, 7.14 cone drill, 4.32 20 yd shuttle. His size as a TE keeps him currently at 5.2 rating (NFL backup or special teams)
LSU WR Jarvis Landry clocked a 4.6 40 with 12 bench press reps. He's currently graded at a 5.6 (Chance to be an NFL Starter). Despite only 7 bench press reps, LSU WR Odell Beckham ran a blazing 4.31 40 yard dash. He currently holds a 5.9 rating (Chance to become an NFL starter) RB Jeremy Hill lifted up the 225 lb bar 20 times during the combine. He currently holds a 5.8 rating (Chance to become an NFL starter).
Not a bad showing for Ole Miss WR Donte Moncrief, the lone Rebel in the combine, clocking 4.4 40 despite only 13 bench press reps. He's currently graded at 5.85 (Chance to become NFL Starter)
Mississippi St's Gabe Jackson with a nice showing of strength with 30 bench press reps despite not so blazing speed with a 5.51 40. He's currently rated at 5.95 (Chance to become an NFL Starter). RB Ladarius Perkins had a strong 23 reps on the bench press. He is currently rated a 5.15 (Backup or Special Teams)
Obviously, from a Missouri Tiger standpoint, all eyes will be on Michael Sam, who met with the media this weekend. Sam had 17 reps on bench press. He is currently rated at 5.22 (NFL backup or special teams). Despite the size of Henry Josey, he did get 20 reps on the bench press. He's currently rated at 5.08 (Better than average chance to make NFL Roster).
All eyes from South Carolina will be on Jadaveon Clowney, rated at 7.5 (Future All-Pro), was only able lift the 225 bench bar 21 times. Not very impressive for someone being compared to former 1st overall pick Mario Williams, who had 35 reps.Connor Shaw clocked in a 4.55 40 yd dash, which is a top performance so far. Shaw is currently rated at a 5.0 (50-50 chance to make NFL Roster)
Texas A&M OL Jake Matthews so far has had good reviews of his combine performance. Running a 5.07 40, 24 bench reps, and top performances with a 30.5 vertical jump, and a 7.34 on cone drill. He is currently rated at 6.7 (Chance to be Pro Bowl caliber). Johnny Manziel has clocked in a 4.56 40 yard dash so far. He is currently rated at 5.9 (Chance to become NFL starter). Mike Evans is showing a lot of promise with a 4.47 40 despite only 12 bench reps. He's currently rated at 6.15 (Should be instant starter).
Vanderbilt and Madison Academy Alum Jordan Matthews so far with an impressive combine running a 4.40 40 along with 21 bench press reps. He's currently rated at 5.6 (Chance to become NFL starter)
UCF QB Blake Bortles has clocked in a 4.81 40 yard dash. He is currently rated at 6.4 (Should become instant starter)
Clemson QB Tajh Boyd needed a good combine after his Senior Bowl performace. He is currently clocked with a 4.75 40 yd dash. He is currently rated at 5.45 (NFL Backup or Special Teams). His teammate Sammy Watkins has a 4.34 40, along with 16 reps on bench. Currently rated at 7 (Pro Bowl caliber)
Ohio St. RB Carlos Hyde displayed his strength with 19 bench reps. He's currently rated at 6.2 (Should be instant starter)
Florida St. WR Kelvin Benjamin clocked a 4.53 40 along with 13 reps on bench press. Benjamin is currently rated at 6.4 (Chance to be instant starter)
More to come as the combine progresses.
OTM Daily Action 2/23/14
Denver -2.5 vs. Sacremento
Cleveland +1 vs. Washington
Oklahoma City/LA Clippers (Over 209)
Oklahoma City -4.5
Cleveland +1 vs. Washington
Oklahoma City/LA Clippers (Over 209)
Oklahoma City -4.5
Saturday, February 22, 2014
OTM Daily Action 2/22/14
Syracuse +6 @ Duke
Texas +10 vs. Kansas
Arizona -4 @ Colorado
New York Knicks+5 @ Atlanta
Texas +10 vs. Kansas
Arizona -4 @ Colorado
New York Knicks
Friday, February 21, 2014
Bret Bielema's House of Cards
The ten second, slow down proposal for NCAA Football seems to be the story that never dies. Even though Nick Saban seems to be the popular face for this rule (even by Steve Spurrier), Arkansas Head Coach Bret Bielema is making a good case for it as well. However, he may be being a little more ridiculous about it.
Yesterday, Reports came out that quoted Bielema using the "death of a player" card.
In a Q&A with SI's Andy Staples, he explains why he said it:
"The reason I brought up the Cal player is this: We all have sickle cell players. To me, it's the most scary individual thing we face. There are no signs. There are no indicators. You test every one of your players when they come in. And there are players who come in that have no idea they have it. Then you've got to call the parents, sit the kid down and talk to them what it means -- what the possibilities of things happening are. It's a scary deal. But you contact the mom and dad and you tell them, listen, the one thing we'll do is we'll have our trainers locked into it. His coaches know. His position coach knows, and I know as the head coach. We're always going to be looking out for his well-being. You promise them that. I always make the guarantee when I'm in the parents' home. I say I can't guarantee playing time or a degree, but I'm going to guarantee that I'll help you get both. And the second thing I can guarantee is that I'll always look out for the safety and the well-being of your son. When you're halfway across the country, that means something. It means you're going to look out for their safety.
When this whole safety issue came up, everybody's thinking you're talking about knee injuries or hamstrings. I'm talking about the concussion crisis, sickle cell trait. This one [sickle cell trait] really scares you because you don't know when it's coming. The kids have difficulty breathing. They don't want to come out of practice or the game. All the ones I've ever been around, they want to stay in because they don't want their teammates to think they're quitting or stopping. What we began to rationalize is that when these players pass when they're involved in these conditioning drills, they pull themselves out of it or the trainer pulls them out of it because they're having difficulties. What if you're in the middle of the third or fourth quarter and you know that the kid standing 15 yards away from you or on the other side of the field has this trait. He's got this built-in possibility of something happening. Your doctors have told you about it. Your trainers have told you about it. He looks at you through those eyes or maybe the trainer even says, "Hey coach, you need to get him out of there." And you can't. You have no timeouts. He's not going to fake an injury. He's not going to fall down."
Wow! This kind of politicking would make Frank Underwood blush. According to a 2011 CDC Report, Sickle Cell affects 90,000 to 100,000 Americans. The Estimated Population of the United States is 316 Million.
I understand and fully respect the seriousness of this disease. However, this is very shallow politicking at best.
This is also the same guy who was whining about Urban Meyer's recruiting tactics when Meyer arrived at Ohio St.
Nice try Bret. Even though Nick Saban played the player safety card, we may have the call this the "Bielema Bitch Rule" after playing the death card. I'm not buying it.
UPDATE: Bielema has apologized to the family of Ted Aug, the Cal player cited in his remarks.
Sandy Barbour, AD at Cal, called Bielema's remarks "beyond insensitive".
I wouldn't go as far as insensitive. However, I would say they were very foolish in regards to tying it into a proposed rule change.
This could be a big blow to the pro-rule change crowd in getting crowd appeal, because it's obvious the pro-crowd is stretching.
After this stunt, I'd be shocked if the rule passed. Then again, look at who could decide it's fate.
UPDATE: Bielema has apologized to the family of Ted Aug, the Cal player cited in his remarks.
Sandy Barbour, AD at Cal, called Bielema's remarks "beyond insensitive".
I wouldn't go as far as insensitive. However, I would say they were very foolish in regards to tying it into a proposed rule change.
This could be a big blow to the pro-rule change crowd in getting crowd appeal, because it's obvious the pro-crowd is stretching.
After this stunt, I'd be shocked if the rule passed. Then again, look at who could decide it's fate.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
LET THEM EAT PASTA, DAMNIT!!!!!
I know it's the fun, hip thing to rip the NCAA for lack of teeth to punishment, so on, so forth. But this next story just sets up for ridicule.
The University of Oklahoma self reported NCAA violations in regarding to hotel wifi, impermissible texts, and PASTA!
The funny thing I find about this, actually two things:
1) The violators were offensive lineman. I'm curious what the ration is in regards to pasta at a banquet. Is it one plate? Is it two scoops? And who the hell monitors this and why is it a violation?
2) In order for these players to get reinstated, a donation of $3.83 to their favorite charity was required.
Couldn't imagine how much it would have been if it had chicken in it.
As much as I oppose the paying for players because they get an educational benefit for playing in college, stupid rules like this by the NCAA makes it harder to argue against it.
Why would I want to play college football if my ineligibility will be in question over how much damn pasta I'd eat. It wasn't a Porterhouse steak for crying out loud.
Good job NCAA, you have once again proved why no one takes you seriously and why you're the punchline of most college headlines.
The University of Oklahoma self reported NCAA violations in regarding to hotel wifi, impermissible texts, and PASTA!
The funny thing I find about this, actually two things:
1) The violators were offensive lineman. I'm curious what the ration is in regards to pasta at a banquet. Is it one plate? Is it two scoops? And who the hell monitors this and why is it a violation?
2) In order for these players to get reinstated, a donation of $3.83 to their favorite charity was required.
Couldn't imagine how much it would have been if it had chicken in it.
As much as I oppose the paying for players because they get an educational benefit for playing in college, stupid rules like this by the NCAA makes it harder to argue against it.
Why would I want to play college football if my ineligibility will be in question over how much damn pasta I'd eat. It wasn't a Porterhouse steak for crying out loud.
Good job NCAA, you have once again proved why no one takes you seriously and why you're the punchline of most college headlines.
OTM Daily Action 2/20/14 (For Entertainment Purposes Only)
Hopefully my action will not be as disturbing as this new daggering trend that is happening at Jamaican night clubs.
Tonight's Action:
Houston -8.5 @ LA Lakers
Duke -1.5 @ North Carolina
Furman+14 @ Wofford
Tonight's Action:
Houston -8.5 @ LA Lakers
Duke -1.5 @ North Carolina
Furman
Introducing the OTM 2014 Childhood Crush Bracket
It's been a while since I've been able to do this, and unlike the last one (Guy Movie Bracket), this one should be able to function much easier.
Introducing the 2014 OTM Childhood Crush Tournament for March Madness.
Introducing the 2014 OTM Childhood Crush Tournament for March Madness.
And that's just a sampling. Models, Athletes, etc are also elgible. But mainly what I want is nominations for crushes you had in your childhood. I will accept nominations until Championship Week, then we will do a poll and accept the Top 64 into the tournament (Seeds will be determined by number of poll votes). Throughout the NCAA Tournament, you will vote to settle the debate of greatest Childhood Crush of all time.
You can get your nominations in through Twitter, Facebook, and on my radio show 9-11a on SportsRadio 730 The UMP and 103.9FM!
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
OTM Daily Action 2/18/2014: Trifecta followed by Crazy 8's.
Last night I went 3 for 3 on the Daily Action. North Carolina, despite a 21-6 defecit, came back to defeat the Florida St. Seminoles. A 3-pointer by Oklahoma St at the buzzer turned out to be a blessing as Baylor was able to cover vs. the Cowboys. William and Mary over UNC-Wilmington was just easy money. So, like I always do, after a good day, I get a little greedy. Let's see if it pays off this time.
Your Daily Action for 2/18/14:
Butler +9 @ St. Johns
Washington -2.5 vs. Toronto
Wyoming -7 vs. Fresno St
Indiana +4 vs. Iowa
LA Clippers -4.5 vs. San Antonio
Clemson -5 @ NC State
Miami Heat -2 @ Dallas
Memphis -7 vs. New York
Cleveland Cavaliers -4 @ Philadelphia
3f2df58eead042a31ef48dc08b8a1d21fa7af33945ca7d641b
Nick Saban says he always wanted to be a Car Salesman, has no tolerance for lemons
Credit: AL.com/Credit: MBUSI/Butch Dill
In this week's edition of Non-stories to file, there is a supposed lawsuit in regarding Nick Saban and ownership of a proposed Mercedes-Benz dealership. Crown Automobiles, out of Hoover, filed an intent to subpoena the Alabama Head Coach.
Here is the filing.
If you're asking why they would do such a thing, it's not because they're Auburn fans.
A Nick Saban owned dealership would generate buzz and influence in the state of Alabama. I'm sure that this dealership will have nothing but 5-star quality vehicles and Nick Saban probably has a low tolerance for lemons.
To take what would probably be a line from Clay Travis, only 15% could afford to buy a Benz from Nick Saban.
Crown is obviously in trouble, and competition is trying to park right by their front door.
Competition is the lifesource for great free enterprise and Crown obviously isn't confident enough to let it make them better.
This is nothing new in business, you sue to keep your competition from gaining momentum. And this is not the first time that Crown Automobiles has done this.
Should you be surprised that college football coaches would pursue business endeavors? If so, you're very naïve.
If this dealership does get built and happen, maybe Nick Saban won't reach out to the government to influence laws that make sports and luxury vehicles go from 0 to 60 in 10 seconds.
Couldn't resist.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Dee Hart.....at least that's his real name.
Photo via Birmingham News
Now former Alabama RB and 5-star prospect Dee Hart was arrested Sunday night in Tuscaloosa for possession of marijuana and giving law enforcement a false name.
It's one thing to get busted for pot, because it seems to be the norm in college football these days. However, giving law enforcement a false name is just dumb. According to a statement released by the University of Alabama, Hart is no longer on the team:
"Hopefully he will learn from this mistake and continue to work toward completing his degree, which he is on track to do by the summer." (Quote from UA via Michael Casagrande of AL.com)
How much of a dent does this put on Alabama? None, maybe opens up another spot for some in the upcoming recruiting class. Hopefully Dee Hart will learn from this and be able to move on.
NOTE: Reports say Dee Hart has not been with the team since The Sugar Bowl vs. Oklahoma.
OTM Daily Action 2/17/14
Still trying to get back on the winning track. There are no NBA games or NHL games, but there is plenty of College Basketball.
Here are today's picks:
North Carolina -1 @ Florida St.
Baylor -4.5 vs. Oklahoma St.
William & Mary -9 vs. North-Carolina Wilmington
Here are today's picks:
North Carolina -1 @ Florida St.
Baylor -4.5 vs. Oklahoma St.
William & Mary -9 vs. North-Carolina Wilmington
Maybe it's time we start ignoring The Westboro Baptist Church
I know you're tired of the Michael Sam story, but it isn't going to go away anytime soon.
(Courtesy: @SBNation)
In the aftermath of Michael Sam announcing that he was gay, we knew this would eventually happen. The Westboro Baptist Church, who protested at the NCAA Final Four in the wake of Jason Collins's announcement, protested at the University of Missouri during their game vs. Tennessee on Saturday. Credit to the students, who stood in the way of these zealots that are nothing but bigoted attention whores.
On the Westboro Baptist website, there are numbers they list that would probably make anyone's, including the loving faction of Christianity, stomach turn:
6799 - soldiers that God has killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.
What is actually comical is that they sing parodies of songs by Lorde, Katy Perry, The Beatles, and even Blake Shelton and consider them as hymms. I'm sure Katy Perry, Sir Paul, Lorde, and Blake Shelton are thrilled to know this.
We love to throw the "Hate Speech" term over the dumbest things in this political climate. However, it's valid with these guys.
Their next "high-profile" protest will be on March 2nd at The Oscars (according to their website).
I think it's time for us as the media to begin ignoring these hateful people. Yes, I understand wanting to give kudos to the students at Missouri for taking a stand against this frivolous bigotry.
However, I think it's time we ignore them all together. Mocking them, writing about them, and trying to shame them only fuels their fire. Which is probably why they write parodies for songs by Katy Perry (who probably doesn't approve of them doing so).
We can't silence their voice by law, but we can silence their voice by clearly walking away, not writing about them, or even acknowledging their presence.
Will it work? Probably not.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
The Ten Second Proposal: Could be decided by women's administrators and Shenandoah University
No, not that Shenendoah, a band that was founded in Muscle Shoals, AL in 1984. As far as I know, Marty Raybon has not been on record about his stance regarding the 10 second substitution proposal by the NCAA.
Having said that, the productive fate of offensive minds like Gus Malzahn, Kevin Sumlin, and Mike Leach could be determined by three senior women's administrators and an Athletic Director from Shenandoah University.
Are they scheduled to job to an SEC school in 2016? I'm not sure.
Maybe I'm getting a little head of myself. Let's slowly review the ladder of approval in regards to this flawed and devolving rule proposal that tries to keep football frozen in time.
Here is a rundown of the Football Rules Committee via Jon Solomon of AL.com, and how many plays they run compared to Division average:
| Name | School/Conference Plays Per Game | NCAA Division Avg. Plays Per Game | School Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfred White, C-USA assoc. commissioner | 71.4 | 71.8 (FBS) | Not applicable |
| Todd Berry, Louisiana-Monroe coach | 71.7 | 71.8 (FBS) | 6-6 |
| Troy Calhoun, Air Force coach | 67.6 | 71.8 (FBS) | 2-10 |
| Ken Beazer, Southern Utah AD | 66.5 | 70.5 (FCS) | 8-5 |
| Thomas Yeager, Colonial Athletic Association commissioner | 70.4 | 70.5 (FCS) | Not applicable |
| Robert Nielson, Western Illinois coach | 72.4 | 70.5 (FCS) | 4-8 |
| David Sharp, Ouachita Baptist AD | 75.9 | 71.8 (Division II) | 7-3 |
| Keith Allen, Southwest Baptist coach | 69.2 | 71.8 (Division II) | 1-10 |
| Peter Rossomando, New Haven coach | 62.4 | 71.8 (Division II) | 8-3 |
| Gregory Wallace, Grinnell College AD | 68.5 | 70.6 (Division III) | 2-8 |
| Michael Mattia, Johns Hopkins associate AD | 81.1 | 70.6 (Division III) | 10-1 |
| Brian Surace, Fairleigh Dickinson coach | 69.3 | 70.6 (Division III) | 1-9 |
Note: Plays per game for committee members who represent conferences were taken from their conference average, not an individual school.Doesn't look optimistic to the majority of media, fans, and coaches who have spoken out against this proposed rule. That's not the most disturbing and possibly most infuriating part. The rule must be approved by the Rules Oversight panel in March.
Kevin Scarbinsky lists the members of the NCAA Oversight Panel:
Shelley Appelbaum, senior women's administrator, Michigan State.
Derita Ratcliffe, senior women's administrator, UAB.
Jeff Hurd, commissioner, WAC.
Noreen Morris, commissioner, Northeast Conference.
Lisa Sweany, AD, Armstrong Atlantic State University.
Kristy Bayer, senior women's administrator, Arkansas Tech.
Doug Zipp, AD, Shenandoah University.
Lynn Oberbillig, AD, Smith College.
Sue Lauder, AD, Fitchburg State University.
Now we're back to the Shenandoah reference, along with 3 women's administrators who could decide the fate of whether football will evolve, or if it will be put on ice until the next offensive guru can come up with a scheme that loopholes that lazy and petty rule. Let me say that again, 3 women's administrators could decide if Kevin Sumlin, Gus Malzahn, and Mike Leach can continue the evolution of football or give Nick Saban a victory in what seems to be a clash against time and innovation. You want to talk about fairness in the game. What is fair about these people deciding the fate of faster, innovative offenses? Defenses can evolve too, right? I'm waiting for your answer.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Targeting Dumb Rule Proposals
Who says the Iron Bowl isn't competitive all 365 days a year? Whoever is, has no clue or is lying to themselves.
Even after "The Kick Six", and the stupidity surrounding the signing of Rashaan Evans, another battle line has been drawn.
Nick Saban has been labeled the new posterchild for an NCAA rule proposal that would allow the defense 10 seconds to make subsitutions before the next play.
Saban has been vocal in the past about the evolving styles of Hurry Up, No Huddle offenses.
Coincidentally, the teams that have had the most success vs. Alabama in the Saban Era have ran these styles of offense. Saban's rival, Auburn, Coached by Gus Malzahn, runs this type of offense.
To label Saban the lone label of this rule wouldn't be fair. Other coaches have been outspoken in regards to the evolving faster paced offenses, including Arkansas Head Coach Bret Bielema.
A few things that bother me about this rule proposal:
1) The disingenious lobbying for it - Proponents for this rule say it is for player safety. I call bullcrap. Football is a contact sport and players risk getting hurt every play, it doesn't matter how many more or less plays are ran.
2) It hinders game evolution: If you want to be stuck in the 70's, go watch ESPN Classic. From the forward pass, the Triple Option, Maryland I, Wing-T, to the Fun and Gun. Football evolves. Monte Kiffin was famous for his Tampa-2 defense, which revolutionized the defensive game. Offenses have since evolved to where the Tampa-2 is now becoming obsolete.
3) The rule becomes null in two minute warning of each half- But yet 10 seconds can run off of a playclock per play before that time.
4) Physical defense have proven to shut these offenses down - Remember Auburn/Oregon 2010? Remember Oregon/Stanford last year? These fast paced offenses are effective, but not invincible.
5) Theses coaches are good enough to evolve and scheme to counter them - Even though it hasn't happened yet, they eventually will. Remember the Tampa-2 example earlier. It was once effective until the offenses evolved to make it obsolete.
Football has evolved and will continue to evolve. I personally don't think this rule will pass, and it shouldn't. It hinders innovation and pacifies the traditionalist, who probably hated Steve Spurrier's spread when he introduced it.
OTM Daily Action 2/13/14: The Sun peeks over the clouds
A 6-4-1 finish last night has me going in the right direction as I keep chipping back to the surface. 16-24-2 on the year.
Today's OTM Daily Action:
Brooklyn +3.5 @ Chicago
Oklahoma City -10.5 @ Los Angeles Lakers
Missouri -6 vs. Arkansas
Today's OTM Daily Action:
Brooklyn +3.5 @ Chicago
Oklahoma City -10.5 @ Los Angeles Lakers
Missouri -6 vs. Arkansas
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
OTM Daily Action: Weathering the Storm 2/12/14
Finally, my first winning day in the OTM Daily Action. It's 4-3 on the NBA, but I'll take it. Just like most in the Southeast are weathering winter weather (or approaching winter weather), I'm weathering the storm of bad picks but able to chip away to a 14-23-1. Meteorologists in North Alabama are getting grief because snow hasn't come yet. Their track record has been a little better than mine, so I'll cut them some slack. Here's an opportunity for me to Really catch up, or really be snowed in.
Here's your Daily Action:
Memphis -2 @ Orlando
Toronto -6.5 vs. Atlanta
San Antonio -3.5 @ Boston
Cleveland +7.5 @ Detroit
New York -5.5 vs. Sacramento
Denver +6 @ Minnesota
New Orleans -7 @ Milwaukee
Washington +9 @ Houston
Utah -8 vs. Philadelphia
Miami -1 vs. Golden State
Portland +9 @ LA Clippers
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
OTM Daily Action 2/11/14
A 2-3-1 finish last night didn't help at all. Now I'm weathering the storm at 10-20-1. Yeesh. Last time I put faith in the Philadelphia 76ers. While you're hunkered down for the potential snowstorm, you can pass the time either watching me finally getting on the right track or continuing the crash and burn.
Cleveland +105 ML vs. Sacremento
Dallas -4 @ Charlotte
Chicago -1 vs. Atlanta
Washington +4.5 @ Memphis
Phoenix +140 vs. Miami
Oklahoma City -103 ML @ Portland
LA Lakers -1.5 vs. Utah
Monday, February 10, 2014
People need to leave Rashaan Evans alone and Grow The Hell Up
For those who thought that I only magnify the stupidity of one fan base and give a pass to another, allow me to make that a myth right now.
The Auburn fans and the folks of Auburn, AL that are giving grief to an 18 year old kid and his family, for making a choice that was his and his alone, need to grow the hell up.
Andrew Bone with TideSports.com documents a story that is beyond pathetic.
In an interview with new Tide Signee Rashaan Evans (who was thought by most to go to Auburn), tells a tale of unnecessary sour grapes.
"It's getting worse," Evans said on Monday evening. "Someone actually put out an article about my family's business telling all Auburn fans not to go there. We are going to eventually start losing money. People are telling restaurants in the town not to serve us."
For a town and fan base that prided itself by showing class after the Iron Bowl, some in the Auburn fan base are showing their ass. Acting as if their religion had been defamed. This should assure Rashaan Evans that he made the right decision.
"Social media has definitely been the worst. People on Instagram are telling me how they hope I tear my ACL in game one. They will laugh when I do. They are saying my family is horrible and how they didn't raise me right. It's just crazy."
You want to know why I hate following college football recruiting and show displeasure in most that do? This is an example. The keyboard and social media gangsters bow up to a kid that would probably flatten them and send them on a stretcher if they matched up on the field.
"Auburn fans are saying I am going to ride the bench, and I am going to be like Reuben Foster. People are adding his family and how they are low-lifes. They talk about his mom. You wouldn't think some of them are human. I knew it was going to be horrible. You know it's out of hand when people come up to you saying stuff. People you don't know. People who are grown men."
That last sentence mentions grown men. That statement by Evans is wrong. The correct term is adult creeps who obsess over 18 year old athletes who probably fat, out of shape and couldn't get a scholarship to Alabama or Auburn because they write out "Kat" in blue or red crayons.
Best of luck to Rashaan Evans, he was a man who made his decision. Let the kid enjoy it and stop acting like you just came off a 3-9 season.
OTM Daily Action 2/10/14 Climbing out of the Well
Well, the only way you can go is up. Given the start to this 2014 year on the blog, going from 2-9, to 2-6, to 3-3 is considered a monumental step. Now it's time I climb out of the well. Could have been 4-2 but Chris Paul decided to show up for the Clippers while the Philadelphia 76ers decided not to show up at all.
Here are today's OTM action lines:
Denver +10.5 @ Indiana
Toronto -7 vs. New Orleans
San Antonio -3.5 @ Detroit
Houston -5 @ Minnesota
Boston -1 @ Milwaukee
Philadelphia +15 @ Golden State
Sports gets more political and We all become hypocrites
It seems to be like Groundhog Day in Washington where nothing gets done and we get nothing but finger pointing and blame games.
While the guy and gal working the part-time job (or looking for a job) is fighting to keep his family sheltered, we have legislators more focused on telling how Roger Goodell should run the NFL, and our media telling us how we should feel when it comes to stories about Michael Sam.
Allow me to actually put a clear version of these stories rather than it be coated in red or blue paint.
Michael Sam got a big weight off of his shoulders. Some will deem him a hero. Some will be proud of him and think he is courageous. Some will think it is none of their business, and some will thump their chest and say it's an abomination.
The media will demonize anyone who doesn't find Michael Sam's announcement heroic or courageous, even if they choose to disagree with the lifestyle and wish him the best of luck.
This same media that also will go out of it's way to demonize Tim Tebow or Phil Robertson for being open about their Christianity.
This maybe a newsflash for some, but Christianity forbids homosexuality along with other sins.
This will definitely be a newsflash to some. The religions of Islam, Judaism, and Mormonism also forbids it (although there are fractions that will accept it).
Let me see if I can put this together in science:
From my observations, the Liberal media will demonize Christianity, but not be as harsh on Islam.
Some on the evangelical fringe will condemn those like Michael Sam, but will defend Tim Tebow and Phil Robertson.
Seems contradicting and a little intolerant, right?
Yes I know, the democratic side is usually the preacher of tolerance. Just look at the people who are trying to get Rush Limbaugh off the air, yet will look at what Melissa Harris-Perry says about Mitt Romney's grandchild as not a big deal.
For most sane people, Tim Tebow speaking out about his faith will not bother them and to some is refreshing. Nor will it bother them that Michael Sam announced he is gay. Mostly because sane people will treat it as his choice and wish him the best of luck.
This issue has, if it hasn't already, been politicized. As much as you may not want to hear it, this story will beaten into your head until he gets drafted or after his first season.
If he doesn't get picked high enough, it will be because he is gay. If he doesn't play, it will be because he is gay. If he doesn't have a successful NFL career, it will be because he was held back for his life choice. This will be the narrative.
Many times I've already debunked the significance of where you are drafted (Tom Brady 6th Round, JaMarcus Russell, 1st overall).
What is really different? Even if this wasn't announced, he still has the opportunity to make a career in the NFL.
It's stories like this that shed light on the hypocrisy of our political crusades (on both sides of the aisle).
And just as if Washington needs another distraction, two congressman are now trying to push Roger Goodell and tell him how he should run the NFL.
Maybe this is my fiscal conservative side coming out, but I'd think that if the marketbase (NFL fans) had a majority that believed it was time to change the name of the Washington Redskins; they, as consumers should be able to make that choice. Not anyone else.
Just like the #StopRush movement (which has less movement than someone's bowels), where idiots who are not a part of the consumer base (the listeners) are trying to dictate and terrorize businesses on what they can listen to.
Yet, most of them have no problem with what any other show host says if their comments are considered distasteful or off the wall.
If you ever want to know why nothing can get done, these two stories are great examples.
It's all or nothing.
The agendas outweigh the solutions.
And there is no compromise.
Read that definition, and if the people who beat these drums were honest with themselves, they could see their hypocrisy. Conservative or Liberal. But let's be honest, they won't and probably never will.
While the guy and gal working the part-time job (or looking for a job) is fighting to keep his family sheltered, we have legislators more focused on telling how Roger Goodell should run the NFL, and our media telling us how we should feel when it comes to stories about Michael Sam.
Allow me to actually put a clear version of these stories rather than it be coated in red or blue paint.
Michael Sam got a big weight off of his shoulders. Some will deem him a hero. Some will be proud of him and think he is courageous. Some will think it is none of their business, and some will thump their chest and say it's an abomination.
The media will demonize anyone who doesn't find Michael Sam's announcement heroic or courageous, even if they choose to disagree with the lifestyle and wish him the best of luck.
This same media that also will go out of it's way to demonize Tim Tebow or Phil Robertson for being open about their Christianity.
This maybe a newsflash for some, but Christianity forbids homosexuality along with other sins.
This will definitely be a newsflash to some. The religions of Islam, Judaism, and Mormonism also forbids it (although there are fractions that will accept it).
Let me see if I can put this together in science:
From my observations, the Liberal media will demonize Christianity, but not be as harsh on Islam.
Some on the evangelical fringe will condemn those like Michael Sam, but will defend Tim Tebow and Phil Robertson.
Seems contradicting and a little intolerant, right?
Yes I know, the democratic side is usually the preacher of tolerance. Just look at the people who are trying to get Rush Limbaugh off the air, yet will look at what Melissa Harris-Perry says about Mitt Romney's grandchild as not a big deal.
For most sane people, Tim Tebow speaking out about his faith will not bother them and to some is refreshing. Nor will it bother them that Michael Sam announced he is gay. Mostly because sane people will treat it as his choice and wish him the best of luck.
This issue has, if it hasn't already, been politicized. As much as you may not want to hear it, this story will beaten into your head until he gets drafted or after his first season.
If he doesn't get picked high enough, it will be because he is gay. If he doesn't play, it will be because he is gay. If he doesn't have a successful NFL career, it will be because he was held back for his life choice. This will be the narrative.
Many times I've already debunked the significance of where you are drafted (Tom Brady 6th Round, JaMarcus Russell, 1st overall).
What is really different? Even if this wasn't announced, he still has the opportunity to make a career in the NFL.
It's stories like this that shed light on the hypocrisy of our political crusades (on both sides of the aisle).
And just as if Washington needs another distraction, two congressman are now trying to push Roger Goodell and tell him how he should run the NFL.
Maybe this is my fiscal conservative side coming out, but I'd think that if the marketbase (NFL fans) had a majority that believed it was time to change the name of the Washington Redskins; they, as consumers should be able to make that choice. Not anyone else.
Just like the #StopRush movement (which has less movement than someone's bowels), where idiots who are not a part of the consumer base (the listeners) are trying to dictate and terrorize businesses on what they can listen to.
Yet, most of them have no problem with what any other show host says if their comments are considered distasteful or off the wall.
If you ever want to know why nothing can get done, these two stories are great examples.
It's all or nothing.
The agendas outweigh the solutions.
And there is no compromise.
tol·er·ance
ˈtäl(ə)rəns/
noun
noun: tolerance
- 1.the ability or willingness to tolerate something, in particular the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with."the tolerance of corruption"
synonyms: acceptance, toleration; More open-mindedness, broad-mindedness, forbearance, liberality, liberalism;"an attitude of tolerance toward other people"- the capacity to endure continued subjection to something, esp. a drug, transplant, antigen, or environmental conditions, without adverse reaction.plural noun: tolerances"the desert camel shows the greatest tolerance to dehydration"
synonyms: endurance of, resistance to, resilience to, resistance to, immunity to More "she has a low tolerance to alcohol" - diminution in the body's response to a drug after continued use.
- 2.an allowable amount of variation of a specified quantity, esp. in the dimensions of a machine or part."250 parts in his cars were made to tolerances of one thousandth of an inch"
Read that definition, and if the people who beat these drums were honest with themselves, they could see their hypocrisy. Conservative or Liberal. But let's be honest, they won't and probably never will.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Michael Sam announces he's gay; Anonymous NFL Execs remain out of touch
News breaks that All-American DE Michael Sam from Missouri announced to the nation that he was openly gay.
Although this is news to us now, this news was broken by Sam in the Missouri locker room in August.
The fact that the teammates kept this quiet throughout the season is very impressive. Also, it didn't seem to affect the locker room. After all, they did make an appearance in the SEC Championship game.
However, 8 anonymous NFL execs seem to think otherwise.
sparing.
"I don't think football is ready for [an openly gay player] just yet," said an NFL player personnel assistant. "In the coming decade or two, it's going to be acceptable, but at this point in time it's still a man's-man game. To call somebody a [gay slur] is still so commonplace. It'd chemically imbalance an NFL locker room and meeting room."
You could look at what happened between Richie Incognito and Jonathan Martin and see a little validity in this statement. However, hasn't the Missouri locker room already proven that an issue like this wouldn't be a burden?
"I just know with this going on this is going to drop him down," said a veteran NFL scout. "There's no question about it. It's human nature. Do you want to be the team to quote-unquote 'break that barrier?'"
Some projections have Michael Sam anywhere from late 1st Round to possibly 4th. Of course, if he does drop below, a potential media firestorm of outrage is possible. One that would make the conversation about AJ McCarron's draft projections look like child's play.
You could look at the Jason Collins story and saw much hesitation from NBA teams to pick him up. Could it have been because of the media circus that would come with it? Or maybe there wasn't a slot for a career journeyman forward/center.
Obviously, there would be a media circus for any team that drafts Michael Sam. But, what does it say for theses eight anonymous NFL sources? Are they reluctant because of fan reaction or are they out of touch with the cultural shift in social issues?
Yes, there will be sprinkles of bigotry, it's expected. However, most people around my age look at this as it's not a big deal.
There will be some who will put Michael Sam on a pedestal. However, I think the only thing Michael Sam wants is to play football and not live a life of secrecy.
I don't think that's too much to ask for. Best of luck to Michael Sam.
The dust is settling, but something is missing in this Marcus Smart/Jeff Orr altercation
The incident between Oklahoma St sophomore Marcus Smart and Texas Tech "SuperFan" Jeff Orr is coming to it's conclusion. Or has it?
Smart has been suspended for 3 games while Jeff Orr will not attend a Texas Tech game for the remainder of the season.
Orr claims he called Smart "a piece of crap". You can sort of make it out in this audio/video footage from a camera under the goal that has been realeased.
But should calling someone a "piece of crap" warrant not attending games for the remainder of the season? Maybe not. Having said that, a middle-aged man shouldn't be calling a young student athlete anything like that; even though a student athlete has probably heard worse.
It seems like something is missing. Orr will be labeled a racist by some, despite lacking the burden of proof (at this time).
The only conclusion you can come to is that Smart overreacted in the heat of the moment or something other than "piece of crap" set him off like that.
There no reason for demonization of either, which is what most like to do when stories like this happened. We can look at the positives. Marcus Smart can learn from this and move on. Jeff Orr now can realize that as a die-hard fan, you're not invisible or immune from the consequences of your actions.
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