Elsa/Getty ImagesPart 1: Breaking Down Who Chicago Should Sign With the what feels like long awaited report of LeBron James' decision announcement unveiled, the NBA faithful across the nation hope and pray it will be their lucky team.Would every Chicago Bulls' fan be ecstatic if LeBron signed with New York Giants jersey
their favorite team? You bet.Would it be considered the smartest move by every Chicago Bulls' fan? Don't think it for a minute.With Chicago being blessed following the unlikely drafting of point guard Derrick Rose, there have been many spots open for debate in the Bulls' lineup.First off, ever since Ben Gordon bailed for money's sake, Michael Jordan's house hasn't seen a consistent outside-the-paint threat.Derrick Rose is improving his longer range shooting, but is only coming into his third year and has always been regarded as the player to spark things up inside.Ray Allen, who is currently listed as a free agent, is one of the most prolific three point and long range shooters of all-time.Is he old? Sure. Can he still produce back-to-back seasons at a decent level with consistent shooting? Definitely.Regardless of age, if Allen is on the floor, the opposing defense is on their heels for long range shooting.Although we talk about his offensive skills, Ray isn't a bad defender, either.Allen has always been regarded as a solid defensiveman since coming into the league in 1996. He can help both ways.In fact, his play could increase slightly.With the Celtics stellar defense in tact and Rajon Rondo coming around, Allen gets open shots from multiple sources.First, fastbreaks.With the Bulls New York Jets jersey
among the best in rebounding, there will be many fastbreaks to choose from in 2010.Allen rushes up to the three point line, steps back to open some space, and sinks a bucket with ease.Second, picks.Joakim Noah is an up-and-coming center in the NBA. Nearly making the All-Star squad in 2009, Noah will certainly be a top rebounder in time.With Glen Davis getting nice picks in-the-paint, the 13-year-veteran had plenty of leverage on many of his shots. Noah will be able to use his size for advantage and pick off defenders to open up space for Mr. Allen.Lastly, screens.Believe it or not, Ray Allen can become physical when he needs to be.Throughout the NBA Finals, you saw multiple shots from Allen produced by screens.With Rose blossoming into an assist machine, coming off a fast break or successful field goal attempt, Derrick can routinely graze up past half court and nail a pass to Ray Allen in the corner to put up three in the Bulls' column.The famous shooting guard possibly has a couple of good to decent years left in the tank. A 10 or 12 million salary for two years in the United Center sound good, Ray?Also, Kyle Korver, a career 41% three point shooter,is anothergood shootingguard. Adding him for depth if Allen is somehow injured, and you still don't miss the consistent shots.To finish it all out, sign forward David Lee to a near-max contract.Lee's work ethic and ego is by far superior to the likes of Chris Bosh.Coming off consecutive seasons of starting every game, Lee averaged 16.0 points-per-game and Oakland Raiders jersey
20.2 the following season. In both seasons, he averaged 11.7 rebounds-per-game.He is also an excellent free throw shooter, which accounts for more points compared to what people think, coming off a .812 free throw percentage and averaging 77.4 percent in his entire five year career.Part 2: Why the Bulls Should Intend to Build Around Derrick Rose Whether you refuse to come to grip with this or not; Derrick Rose is the reason whythe Chicago Bullshave been to the playoffs the only two seasons he has played.Lately, there have been knocks on D-Rose. Some of that criticism includes his height, defense, and ego.Let's start with his personality check.First, Derrick has never spoken in a negative way when asked about a coach or player. While keeping composure, you've never witnessed him go off on a teammate or fellow team member (cough Kobe cough).His height is a problem? I sure didn't see his 6'3" stature affecting the Bulls in a negative way when he just put up 26.8 points-per-game and 7.2 assists-per-game.You can't expect a point guard to have the greatest defense, but he locks on his target tight throughout the playoffs. The addition of Tom Thibodeau should help tie up some loopholes in that aspect.Wouldn't you feel like your toes are being stepped on if they brought in a LeBron James, who would attempt to take over the game himself, respectively?Rose is the reason why Chicago has been halfway decent the past two years, and the reason why we're even considered among the top free agent contenders.If you add some key parts around Rose, who should be considered Chicago's centerpiece, then you have a more complete team based off chemistry and even-keeledness.Look at Boston. Sure, they have some superstars, but each one is controlled by a respected head coach and know how to rely on each other. Their bench is a backbone to complete the team.With Rose as the undramatic, humble sun, the planets can revolve around him in a much smoother manner Philadelphia Eagles jersey
through the draft or free agent additions to create an entire team.Thank you for reading my article. I appreciate any feedback you leave me and criticism that would help me become an improved writer for the future.Props to Bleacher Report for establishing the wonderful site that can help young writers' dreams come true, and the great editors and staff that assist my work in perfection. Comecheck out chicitysports.com,wherethis articlewas originally written.- Dustin Brown
2010年12月21日星期二
Freddie Freeman and Ryan Klesko: Is There Any Correlation?
Freddie FreemanKevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesBravesfans everywhere remember Ryan Klesko's 1994 season. Robbed of finishing a solid rookie campaign by the strike-shortened season, Klesko still managed to hit 17 homeruns in just 245 at bats in his first "full" major league season.16 years later, it would Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
appear the Braves have another powerful left-handed hitter destined to make his presence known at the big league level. Freeman and Klesko had very similar careers up to this point. Both were drafted out of highschool by the Braves, both are left-handed hitting first basemen and both rely on their tall frames to put of power numbers. But apart from their several obvious similarities, are there really any key likenesses between the two?Could a 21-year-old Freddie Freeman make the same impact that a 23-year-old Ryan Klesko made during the early part of his career?At first glance, you might assume that Freeman's minor league numbers were inferior to Klesko's. With Klesko's claim to fame being power numbers, it would be easy to assume that he averaged more than 15 home runs a season in the minors, right?Looking at stats are always helpful. Over Freeman's 2008-2010 seasons in the minors, he has posted and average of 15 homeruns, 32 doubles, 80 runs batted in, and a .308 batting average.Now let's look at Ryan Klesko's same numbers. Over his 1990-1992 seasons in the minors, he averaged 14 home runs, 20 doubles, 60 runs batted in, and a .272 batting average.Freeman has put up better offensive numbers in the minor leagues than Klesko did during the same stage in his career.Freeman's average number of at bats until a home run was 30.4, while Klesko's was almost two at bats higher at 31.9. This could be a sign of things to come. Freeman could be able to make the type of impact Klesko made in '94 this Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
coming season. Though Freeman is two years younger than Klesko was at that time, the maturity and consistency he has shown thus far leads me to believe Freeman will arrive with a bang this season.Knowing that Klesko finally found his power stroke in his fifth professional season, Freeman could find himself energized accordingly in his fifth professional season. And if that happens, Braves fans will need to warm up their hips: Apache is going to be played a lot at Turner Field in 2011.
appear the Braves have another powerful left-handed hitter destined to make his presence known at the big league level. Freeman and Klesko had very similar careers up to this point. Both were drafted out of highschool by the Braves, both are left-handed hitting first basemen and both rely on their tall frames to put of power numbers. But apart from their several obvious similarities, are there really any key likenesses between the two?Could a 21-year-old Freddie Freeman make the same impact that a 23-year-old Ryan Klesko made during the early part of his career?At first glance, you might assume that Freeman's minor league numbers were inferior to Klesko's. With Klesko's claim to fame being power numbers, it would be easy to assume that he averaged more than 15 home runs a season in the minors, right?Looking at stats are always helpful. Over Freeman's 2008-2010 seasons in the minors, he has posted and average of 15 homeruns, 32 doubles, 80 runs batted in, and a .308 batting average.Now let's look at Ryan Klesko's same numbers. Over his 1990-1992 seasons in the minors, he averaged 14 home runs, 20 doubles, 60 runs batted in, and a .272 batting average.Freeman has put up better offensive numbers in the minor leagues than Klesko did during the same stage in his career.Freeman's average number of at bats until a home run was 30.4, while Klesko's was almost two at bats higher at 31.9. This could be a sign of things to come. Freeman could be able to make the type of impact Klesko made in '94 this Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
coming season. Though Freeman is two years younger than Klesko was at that time, the maturity and consistency he has shown thus far leads me to believe Freeman will arrive with a bang this season.Knowing that Klesko finally found his power stroke in his fifth professional season, Freeman could find himself energized accordingly in his fifth professional season. And if that happens, Braves fans will need to warm up their hips: Apache is going to be played a lot at Turner Field in 2011.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Falcons-Ravens: Will Thursday Be a Preview of Super Bowl XLV?
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesBaltimore Ravens at Atlanta Falcons Thursday November 11th, 2010 8:20 PM EST Line: Atlanta -1 Overview We could not ask for a better Thursday night matchup. The 6-2 Ravens could be the best team in the NFL. They have endured a brutal schedule thus far and this week will be no different. They travel to Atlanta to take on the red hot Falcons, who are also 6-2.We will see a clash between some of the best teams each conference has to offer and the one point spread could easily become Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
a pick’em game by kickoff. Keys to the Game Michael Turner has been held under 50 yards twice this year. Each have resulted in a Falcons loss. The Falcons rely heavily on Turner to open up the offense.After getting off to a slow start, he has rushed for 100 yards four out of the last six games and has done so in each of his last two outings. Turner will see a Ravens defense that allows 104.8 yards a game on the ground, but plays more stingy than their numbers indicate. Haloti Ngata is one of the best 3-4 nose tackles in the entire game. Ray Lewis is able to roam free while Ngata punishes centers and gets push into the backfield. While he leads the Ravens with five sacks this season, Ngata’s contribution to the team will not show up on a stat sheet.In a 3-4, it is imperative that the nose is ruthless and dominates the line of scrimmage. The interior offensive line becomes so wrapped up in Ngata that they aren’t able to get to the second level. If Ray Lewis is able to come free, it is going to be a long day for Michael Turner.Fabian Washington and Chris Carr don’t stand a chance against Roddy White. While both are capable corners and speed is not the issue, Roddy White is an unstoppable machine. White has racked up 796 yards already this season. What is even more telling of how much the Falcons rely on White is his 88 targets this season. Matt Ryan makes no secret about who his favorite target is. While teams know he is going to get the ball, they have still allowed him to rack up huge numbers.The Ravens need to call upon Ed Reed to roll over in coverage when possible or White could produce his fifth 100-yard game of the season.Ray RiceReebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
doesn’t have the same effect on the Ravens productivity as he had last year. While his numbers are down, his performance doesn’t have a correlation with the outcome of games.He averages 71.83 yards a game in their six wins and 87.5 yards a game in their two losses. While Rice contributes more to the offense than just running the ball-catching the ball out of the backfield well and being solid in pass protection, the Ravens have improved in their passing game.The key to Baltimore’s success is offseason acquisition Anquan Boldin. The Ravens have historically had average to below average receivers. Derek Mason has been adequate, but Boldin is possibly the most talented receiver they have had in franchise history. For a team that prides itself on toughness and grit, the Ravens could not have found a more perfect match than a receiver like Boldin. He was never given the respect he deserved in Arizona, playing second fiddle to Larry Fitzgerald, but has become Joe Flacco’s favorite receiver, amassing 546 yards already this season.Having a receiver like Boldin has allowed the Ravens to open up the playbook and add a new dimension to their offense without losing their physicality. Both teams have franchise left tackles and dominant pass-rushing defensive ends.Baltimore left tackle Michael Oher will be going up against John Abraham, who has racked up six sacks this season. Atlanta’s Sam Baker will have his hands full against Terrell Suggs, who has 4.5 sacks this season and constantly finds himself around the quarterback. While I don’t see either tackle letting their respective opponent having a multiple sack day, both matchups will be fun to watch as the game goes on. Who covers on Thursday?Who covers on Thursday?Falcons36.8%Ravens63.2%Total votes: 57Wrap Up The Ravens are 2-2 on the road, but they are playing their best football right now. Both teams are playing outstanding football and the Falcons are undefeated at home, but the Ravens should be able to break that streak on Thursday. They have too many weapons in too many places.Ray Lewis and the Ravens will be on a mission to proveReebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
to the nation that they are the best team in football. The Falcons will be trying to prove they can compete against anyone in the NFL. If you don’t have NFL Network, this might be a great time to contact your cable company. Free NFL Pick: Baltimore +1
a pick’em game by kickoff. Keys to the Game Michael Turner has been held under 50 yards twice this year. Each have resulted in a Falcons loss. The Falcons rely heavily on Turner to open up the offense.After getting off to a slow start, he has rushed for 100 yards four out of the last six games and has done so in each of his last two outings. Turner will see a Ravens defense that allows 104.8 yards a game on the ground, but plays more stingy than their numbers indicate. Haloti Ngata is one of the best 3-4 nose tackles in the entire game. Ray Lewis is able to roam free while Ngata punishes centers and gets push into the backfield. While he leads the Ravens with five sacks this season, Ngata’s contribution to the team will not show up on a stat sheet.In a 3-4, it is imperative that the nose is ruthless and dominates the line of scrimmage. The interior offensive line becomes so wrapped up in Ngata that they aren’t able to get to the second level. If Ray Lewis is able to come free, it is going to be a long day for Michael Turner.Fabian Washington and Chris Carr don’t stand a chance against Roddy White. While both are capable corners and speed is not the issue, Roddy White is an unstoppable machine. White has racked up 796 yards already this season. What is even more telling of how much the Falcons rely on White is his 88 targets this season. Matt Ryan makes no secret about who his favorite target is. While teams know he is going to get the ball, they have still allowed him to rack up huge numbers.The Ravens need to call upon Ed Reed to roll over in coverage when possible or White could produce his fifth 100-yard game of the season.Ray RiceReebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
doesn’t have the same effect on the Ravens productivity as he had last year. While his numbers are down, his performance doesn’t have a correlation with the outcome of games.He averages 71.83 yards a game in their six wins and 87.5 yards a game in their two losses. While Rice contributes more to the offense than just running the ball-catching the ball out of the backfield well and being solid in pass protection, the Ravens have improved in their passing game.The key to Baltimore’s success is offseason acquisition Anquan Boldin. The Ravens have historically had average to below average receivers. Derek Mason has been adequate, but Boldin is possibly the most talented receiver they have had in franchise history. For a team that prides itself on toughness and grit, the Ravens could not have found a more perfect match than a receiver like Boldin. He was never given the respect he deserved in Arizona, playing second fiddle to Larry Fitzgerald, but has become Joe Flacco’s favorite receiver, amassing 546 yards already this season.Having a receiver like Boldin has allowed the Ravens to open up the playbook and add a new dimension to their offense without losing their physicality. Both teams have franchise left tackles and dominant pass-rushing defensive ends.Baltimore left tackle Michael Oher will be going up against John Abraham, who has racked up six sacks this season. Atlanta’s Sam Baker will have his hands full against Terrell Suggs, who has 4.5 sacks this season and constantly finds himself around the quarterback. While I don’t see either tackle letting their respective opponent having a multiple sack day, both matchups will be fun to watch as the game goes on. Who covers on Thursday?Who covers on Thursday?Falcons36.8%Ravens63.2%Total votes: 57Wrap Up The Ravens are 2-2 on the road, but they are playing their best football right now. Both teams are playing outstanding football and the Falcons are undefeated at home, but the Ravens should be able to break that streak on Thursday. They have too many weapons in too many places.Ray Lewis and the Ravens will be on a mission to proveReebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
to the nation that they are the best team in football. The Falcons will be trying to prove they can compete against anyone in the NFL. If you don’t have NFL Network, this might be a great time to contact your cable company. Free NFL Pick: Baltimore +1
19 Dec 10 Pittsburgh's Giant Step Back: Spygate and Steeler Nation's Embarrassing Act of Denial
Al Bello/Getty ImagesWe had made progress. We had become enlightened. Well, leave it to Steeler Nation to drag us back. I'm using the term "Steeler Nation" because I don't mean to single out the fans. I'm trying to include everyone who follows the Pittsburgh Steelers—professionally and unprofessionally. The issue is Spygate. The hot-button topic of 2007 was just that: a trendy subject three years ago. Talk, rumors and accusations have died down and pretty much out since then, save for a few revivals to insult Patriots fans in everyday Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
banter. It still follows the team to a degree. A sign at Heinz Field for last Sunday's Steelers-Patriots matchup read "Six rings, no cheatin," according to the Boston Globe's Shalize Manza Young. Whatever. That's from the fans, and is to be expected. What we got from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Joe Starkey, however, was not. Starkey felt like tackling a topic that is no longer relevant in serious football circles, mentioning that it was New England's first trip to Heinz Field since the controversy erupted in September of 2007. He reminded readers that the Steelers can feel robbed of Super Bowl berths, and that the fans can still look at the Patriots as thieves, crooks and swindlers. It's a reach that smacks of desperation and sounds hollow. And it represents an irrational group that simply can't accept reality. The truth is that the Patriots were a better team than the Steelers both times they played in the playoffs. Not both years, but both games. The 2001 Patriots were not as good as the Steelers. The 2004 Patriots, however, were better than Pittsburgh that year. On both occasions, however, New England took the field and outplayed the Steelers on the latter's home field. And "cheating" had nothing to do with it. As Mike Felger and Tony Massarotti pointed out on the daily Felger and Mazz show, the 2001 game came down to special teams. New England scored on a punt return and a blocked field goal in a seven-point win. The offense struggled to move the ball during the game. Stealing defensive Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
signals, if it happened, had no effect. A similar performance by the Miami Dolphins this season got a coordinator fired. Blame for such an effort belongs on the coordinator, not the opponent. In the 2004 AFC Championship Game, New England faced a Pittsburgh team that had thumped it during the regular season, and returned the favor. The Patriots did use footage of the Steelers for that game, but it was game film. The Patriots beat the Ravens last year at home, then got crushed by the same Baltimore team—at home—in the playoffs. Same principle. The Patriots were better in 2004, the Ravens were better last year. And if Pittsburgh fans are still adamant that there are questionable victories in the books, they can look at themselves. The Steelers had championship teams in 2005 and 2008 that were completely legitimate. The 2005 squad was a resilient group that rose from a sixth seed to win four playoff games, including two in difficult places to play (Indianapolis and Denver). The 2008 team was one of the decade's best defensive teams. But those titles don't go without skepticism. Super Bowl XL is universally considered to be one of the worst officiated games of recent memory. The Steelers in 2008 won a title in which they didn't have to go against their nemesis, Tom Brady. I won't even go into the steroid accusations surrounding the Steelers teams of the 1970s. I'm not suggesting the Steelers' titles are tainted. They went head-to-head with quality opponents each time and came out on top. They deserve their accolades. But if Pittsburgh fans want to cry foul, there's plenty of ammunition for the other side. Starkey's point represents a Pittsburgh culture that just doesn't want to believe the facts. So it doesn't. The Steelers Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
can't lose a Super Bowl. It must have been taken from them. The evidence suggests otherwise. Doesn't matter. New England won twice in Pittsburgh in the playoffs. The Steelers, on the other hand, have never beaten the Patriots in the postseason. The Steelers lost home AFC Championship Games in 1995, 1997, 2001 and 2004. Those are facts. Unpleasant ones. So the Steeler culture is to hide from them. Spygate's a dead issue. Sorry to have brought it up. But Steeler Nation, you left me no choice.
banter. It still follows the team to a degree. A sign at Heinz Field for last Sunday's Steelers-Patriots matchup read "Six rings, no cheatin," according to the Boston Globe's Shalize Manza Young. Whatever. That's from the fans, and is to be expected. What we got from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Joe Starkey, however, was not. Starkey felt like tackling a topic that is no longer relevant in serious football circles, mentioning that it was New England's first trip to Heinz Field since the controversy erupted in September of 2007. He reminded readers that the Steelers can feel robbed of Super Bowl berths, and that the fans can still look at the Patriots as thieves, crooks and swindlers. It's a reach that smacks of desperation and sounds hollow. And it represents an irrational group that simply can't accept reality. The truth is that the Patriots were a better team than the Steelers both times they played in the playoffs. Not both years, but both games. The 2001 Patriots were not as good as the Steelers. The 2004 Patriots, however, were better than Pittsburgh that year. On both occasions, however, New England took the field and outplayed the Steelers on the latter's home field. And "cheating" had nothing to do with it. As Mike Felger and Tony Massarotti pointed out on the daily Felger and Mazz show, the 2001 game came down to special teams. New England scored on a punt return and a blocked field goal in a seven-point win. The offense struggled to move the ball during the game. Stealing defensive Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
signals, if it happened, had no effect. A similar performance by the Miami Dolphins this season got a coordinator fired. Blame for such an effort belongs on the coordinator, not the opponent. In the 2004 AFC Championship Game, New England faced a Pittsburgh team that had thumped it during the regular season, and returned the favor. The Patriots did use footage of the Steelers for that game, but it was game film. The Patriots beat the Ravens last year at home, then got crushed by the same Baltimore team—at home—in the playoffs. Same principle. The Patriots were better in 2004, the Ravens were better last year. And if Pittsburgh fans are still adamant that there are questionable victories in the books, they can look at themselves. The Steelers had championship teams in 2005 and 2008 that were completely legitimate. The 2005 squad was a resilient group that rose from a sixth seed to win four playoff games, including two in difficult places to play (Indianapolis and Denver). The 2008 team was one of the decade's best defensive teams. But those titles don't go without skepticism. Super Bowl XL is universally considered to be one of the worst officiated games of recent memory. The Steelers in 2008 won a title in which they didn't have to go against their nemesis, Tom Brady. I won't even go into the steroid accusations surrounding the Steelers teams of the 1970s. I'm not suggesting the Steelers' titles are tainted. They went head-to-head with quality opponents each time and came out on top. They deserve their accolades. But if Pittsburgh fans want to cry foul, there's plenty of ammunition for the other side. Starkey's point represents a Pittsburgh culture that just doesn't want to believe the facts. So it doesn't. The Steelers Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
can't lose a Super Bowl. It must have been taken from them. The evidence suggests otherwise. Doesn't matter. New England won twice in Pittsburgh in the playoffs. The Steelers, on the other hand, have never beaten the Patriots in the postseason. The Steelers lost home AFC Championship Games in 1995, 1997, 2001 and 2004. Those are facts. Unpleasant ones. So the Steeler culture is to hide from them. Spygate's a dead issue. Sorry to have brought it up. But Steeler Nation, you left me no choice.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 The Jets Move To 7-2 After An Exciting and Intense Overtime Battle In Cleveland
Leon Halip/Getty ImagesThe New York Jets—also Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
known as the overtime kids—do it again. The football gods can take that Tie and and keep it in Cleveland because the Jets were not settling for a draw. Just an absolutely outstanding effort all around (except you Nick Folk) for the Jets on this beautiful Sunday. And how about No. 6? The franchise quarterback is blossoming into the terrific leader we all thought he would eventually be one day when he was drafted. He showed it all today. He never panicked, even when the pocket was collapsing around him in overtime and on the Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
road. Brilliant poise. In all honesty, this might have been Sanchise's best game in the NFL thus far. Evading tackles, finding receivers on dead plays and being decisive when he had to think quick. In my opinion, Sanchez showed all the Jet faithful out there today that he's got what it takes to bring big fortunes to this team. Just when things were looking bleak, Mr. Sanchez just put the team on his back and won it for them. New York Jets football is definitely at an all time high as they have now moved to 7-2. Clearly the play of the Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
game was the slant to Holmes to seal the victory. Is that play even stoppable when Santonio is running that route? It basically won the game against Detroit and once again this time in Cleveland. Not to mention, massive props to Brian Shotty on calling a fantastic game for this offense.Next week the Jets should be able to push there stellar record to 8-2, as they welcome the slumping, yet very talented Houston Texans.
known as the overtime kids—do it again. The football gods can take that Tie and and keep it in Cleveland because the Jets were not settling for a draw. Just an absolutely outstanding effort all around (except you Nick Folk) for the Jets on this beautiful Sunday. And how about No. 6? The franchise quarterback is blossoming into the terrific leader we all thought he would eventually be one day when he was drafted. He showed it all today. He never panicked, even when the pocket was collapsing around him in overtime and on the Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
road. Brilliant poise. In all honesty, this might have been Sanchise's best game in the NFL thus far. Evading tackles, finding receivers on dead plays and being decisive when he had to think quick. In my opinion, Sanchez showed all the Jet faithful out there today that he's got what it takes to bring big fortunes to this team. Just when things were looking bleak, Mr. Sanchez just put the team on his back and won it for them. New York Jets football is definitely at an all time high as they have now moved to 7-2. Clearly the play of the Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
game was the slant to Holmes to seal the victory. Is that play even stoppable when Santonio is running that route? It basically won the game against Detroit and once again this time in Cleveland. Not to mention, massive props to Brian Shotty on calling a fantastic game for this offense.Next week the Jets should be able to push there stellar record to 8-2, as they welcome the slumping, yet very talented Houston Texans.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Brad Childress Fired: Latest Updates on the End of His Minnesota Vikings Reign
Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesBrad Childress Fired. To many Vikings fans, it's about time. The Vikings had such high expectations coming into this season, and for a slew of reasons have been a tremendous disappointment. To owner Zygi Wilf, yesterday's 31-3 home blowout loss to division rival Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Green Bay was the final nail in Chilly's coffin. Wilf fired Childress this morning and named defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier the interim coach. Only more questions and speculation will follow this move. Here are some. 03:09 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Players Didn't Have His BackPlayers Didn't Have His BackRegardless of all the troubles with Brett Favre and the Randy Moss fiasco, Childress was fired because he "lost the support of the locker room." Or at least that's what it appears.Earlier this year, there were published...Read more » 02:47 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Future Hall of Famers Take A Look At FavreBrad Childress Fired: Future hall of famers take a look at Brett FavreAn hour ago, Kurt Warner tweeted the following: Kurt Warner kurt13warner It would really bother me if 1 of my coaches got fired in the middle of my watch... I would partially b...Read more » 02:26 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: A Timeline of his Mis-stepsBrad Childress Fired: A Timeline of his Mis-stepsThe Vikings loss to Green Bay on Sunday was just another in the long line of mistakes Childress made during the past calendar year.Here are the top 10 reasons he is now unemployed:10: Losing the NFC...Read more » 02:01 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Head Coach Is Not The Only Question MarkHead coach is not the only question mark for the Minnesota Vikings and owner Zygi Wilf this offseason.Even if Leslie Frazier wows the front office and leads the team to a great finish, Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
earning the head coaching gig in 2011, the club has several hu...Read more » 01:46 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Head Coach Releases A StatementFired head coach Brad Childress released a statement to the press.According to a Minnesota ABC affiliate's website, Childress has said the following. "The past five years have been a tremendous experience for my family and I as the Head Coach of ...Read more » 01:30 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: The Rest of 2010 Will Be Hard On The ClubBrad Childress Fired:For weeks one major question around the NFL has been whether or not the Vikings can get back into the playoff race.They still aren't officially mathematically eliminated yet, so Minnesota fans can hold out hope. After all, sin...Read more » 01:14 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Offensive Decline In Minnesota Is To BlameOffensive decline in Minnesota is the main reason why the Vikings let Childress go. At least in terms of the on-the-field element.Last year, the Vikings finished fifth in the NFL (third in the NFC) in total yards per game and second in points scor...Read more » 01:05 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Who Is Leslie Frazier?Who Is Leslie Frazier?Even before joining the Vikings staff in 2007, Leslie Frazier was very familiar with the teams in the NFC North.A defensive back from Alcorn State, Frazier was an undrafted free agent signed by the Chicago Bears in 1981 and p...Read more » 12:53 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Adam Schefter Starts The ComedyBrad Childress Fired:There are sure to be plenty more of these types of quips, but in the early going, ESPN's Adam Schefter had the first great one.On his twitter account, Schefter wrote:"So I guess Brett Favre can now Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
drive Brad Childress to the ...Read more » 12:45 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Front Office Sent Mixed Signals To The PressBrad Childress Fired:Owner Zygi Wilf will address the media at 4 p.m. today regarding the decision.But the front office sent mixed signals today, when they released the standard weekly itinerary for the team which included head coach Brad Childres...Read more »
Green Bay was the final nail in Chilly's coffin. Wilf fired Childress this morning and named defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier the interim coach. Only more questions and speculation will follow this move. Here are some. 03:09 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Players Didn't Have His BackPlayers Didn't Have His BackRegardless of all the troubles with Brett Favre and the Randy Moss fiasco, Childress was fired because he "lost the support of the locker room." Or at least that's what it appears.Earlier this year, there were published...Read more » 02:47 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Future Hall of Famers Take A Look At FavreBrad Childress Fired: Future hall of famers take a look at Brett FavreAn hour ago, Kurt Warner tweeted the following: Kurt Warner kurt13warner It would really bother me if 1 of my coaches got fired in the middle of my watch... I would partially b...Read more » 02:26 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: A Timeline of his Mis-stepsBrad Childress Fired: A Timeline of his Mis-stepsThe Vikings loss to Green Bay on Sunday was just another in the long line of mistakes Childress made during the past calendar year.Here are the top 10 reasons he is now unemployed:10: Losing the NFC...Read more » 02:01 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Head Coach Is Not The Only Question MarkHead coach is not the only question mark for the Minnesota Vikings and owner Zygi Wilf this offseason.Even if Leslie Frazier wows the front office and leads the team to a great finish, Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
earning the head coaching gig in 2011, the club has several hu...Read more » 01:46 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Head Coach Releases A StatementFired head coach Brad Childress released a statement to the press.According to a Minnesota ABC affiliate's website, Childress has said the following. "The past five years have been a tremendous experience for my family and I as the Head Coach of ...Read more » 01:30 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: The Rest of 2010 Will Be Hard On The ClubBrad Childress Fired:For weeks one major question around the NFL has been whether or not the Vikings can get back into the playoff race.They still aren't officially mathematically eliminated yet, so Minnesota fans can hold out hope. After all, sin...Read more » 01:14 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Offensive Decline In Minnesota Is To BlameOffensive decline in Minnesota is the main reason why the Vikings let Childress go. At least in terms of the on-the-field element.Last year, the Vikings finished fifth in the NFL (third in the NFC) in total yards per game and second in points scor...Read more » 01:05 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Who Is Leslie Frazier?Who Is Leslie Frazier?Even before joining the Vikings staff in 2007, Leslie Frazier was very familiar with the teams in the NFC North.A defensive back from Alcorn State, Frazier was an undrafted free agent signed by the Chicago Bears in 1981 and p...Read more » 12:53 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Adam Schefter Starts The ComedyBrad Childress Fired:There are sure to be plenty more of these types of quips, but in the early going, ESPN's Adam Schefter had the first great one.On his twitter account, Schefter wrote:"So I guess Brett Favre can now Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
drive Brad Childress to the ...Read more » 12:45 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Front Office Sent Mixed Signals To The PressBrad Childress Fired:Owner Zygi Wilf will address the media at 4 p.m. today regarding the decision.But the front office sent mixed signals today, when they released the standard weekly itinerary for the team which included head coach Brad Childres...Read more »
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 NFL Quarterbacks: Race Still a Factor, According to ESPN's Jemele Hill
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesIs the headline above a bit of a stretch? An over-exaggeration of Jemele Hill's point in this ESPN article? Certainly. But so is every one of her points that were made in yet another claim that racism still plays a dominant role in professional sports, more so with NFL quarterbacks.I've read a few of Hill's article before, and most of the time she comes across as having a respectable and honest opinion.In her latest piece, her opinion may be honest, but it's far from respectable.Rather than simply spit back my Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
opinion on the subject at hand, I think the smarter move would be to address each and every point Hill made in her commentary.Let's begin."Has anyone else noticed all the drama surrounding black quarterbacks during this NFL season?• Jason Campbell, who has been fighting for his job all season in Oakland, was benched for the second time this year against Pittsburgh on Sunday.• Six-time Pro Bowler Donovan McNabb was replaced by Rex Grossman during the final 1:50 of a close game against the Detroit Lions earlier this month because Redskins coach Mike Shanahan claimed Grossman was better suited to run the team's two-minute offense. Shanahan questioned McNabb's "cardiovascular endurance."Chris McGrath/Getty Images• On Sunday, Titans coach Jeff Fisher demoted Vince Young to benchwarmer after Young threw a tantrum following Tennessee's 19-16 loss to Washington. Although thumb surgery is the official reason Young's season is over, Fisher made it clear before he knew the severity of Young's injury that his 27-year-old quarterback was being removed as the starter.The Raiders' Jason Campbell watched the fourth quarter of the Pittsburgh game from the bench.In 2007, McNabb told HBO's "Real Sports" that black quarterbacks in the NFL face more pressure and tougher criticism than white quarterbacks do. The responses were predictable.Racism is not an issue in the NFL.Stop pulling the race card.Quit whining.But if you've paid attention to how some of the league's black quarterbacks have been treated this season, McNabb's words seem even truer now than they were three years ago.I'm not calling anyone out for being racist, and I realize this might seem like an odd conversation to have considering that Michael Vick is on the cover of this week's Sports Illustrated and his comeback is one of the best sports stories of the year.Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesI'm also not overlooking the facts that Campbell played poorly in the games in which he was benched, that Young's antics in Tennessee are largely to blame for his problems with Fisher, and that Shanahan has had difficult relationships with plenty of white quarterbacks in the past.But it still seems as if race is playing a role in how some black quarterbacks are treated, managed, perceived and, ultimately, judged."Certainly I've noticed the drama surrounding quarterbacks this season.But they're quarterbacks, not black quarterbacks.Brett Favre has been scrutinized over the past three seasons more than any black quarterback to play the game.Ben Roethlisberger faced enormous scrutiny for his irresponsible behavior this past off-season.Do you turn a blind eye to those situations, only to pull out the race card when three black quarterbacks face the smallest scrutiny?I hadn't heard a peep about Campbell's benching all season before this, and he's been downright terrible Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
when he's played.Donovan McNabb is 28th in the league in passer rating, and has more interceptions thrown than he does touchdowns.Marc Serota/Getty ImagesVince Young walked out on his team Sunday, and it isn't his first tantrum with the Titans.A number of white quarterbacks have been benched this year, not because of their skin color, but because of their performance.The same goes for black quarterbacks.The number of contradictions just in these first few paragraphs is humorous more than anything. The last four paragraphs are filled with double-takes and 180's every other sentence."McNabb's words seem even truer now than they were three years ago...I'm not calling anyone out for being racist...I'm also not overlooking the facts that Campbell played poorly in the games in which he was benched, that Young's antics in Tennessee are largely to blame for his problems with Fisher, and that Shanahan has had difficult relationships with plenty of white quarterbacks in the past...But it still seems as if race is playing a role in how some black quarterbacks are treated, managed, perceived and, ultimately, judged."Alright, let's try and decipher this. McNabb's remarks on racism are still true today, but you're not calling anyone racist. You're not overlooking the justification made for benching these quarterbacks, but it still "seems" as if race is playing a role?Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesSo what exactly is your point?I'm currently in high school, and on a daily basis in my English class I am reminded to keep "weaker" words such as think, believe, hope, seems, etc. out of my essays.Yet your basis for your points early on is that it "seems" like race is playing a role.You know, it seems like you don't have much factual basis for your argument, either.No, scratch that. You don't."The first time Campbell was benched this season was during halftime of the second game of the season.The impatience the Raiders have shown with Campbell is stunning. They gave up a fourth-round pick to get him, and were convinced he was the answer after things went south with draft bust JaMarcus Russell, another black quarterback.Campbell will start on Sunday against Miami, but it's baffling that he's still fighting with Bruce Gradkowski—whose career record as a starter is 5-11—for the No. 1 job.When he's good, Vince Young is very good. But he's also been immature at times.I know race doesn't completely explain the Raiders' treatment of Campbell or why he didn't work out for the Redskins. But Campbell's shortcomings are rarely clarified with the same perspective as some white quarterbacks.You hear about his 25-35 record as a starter, but you don't hear that he's played for a different offensive coordinator in every season since the Redskins drafted him in the first round in 2005.Most African-Americans are familiar with the notion that we have to be twice as good just to be considered equal with whites. And considering that there are only six black starting quarterbacks in the NFL, there isn't a lot of room for error."Campbell was benched after halftime of the second game because of how poorly he was playing. A 69.7 rating after week one, followed by a 42.9 rating in week two would have any quarterback on a team like the Raiders riding the pine.The fact is, Campbell wasn't performing.Pointing out JaMarcus Russell doesn't help, seeing how many chances he was given to redeem himself in Oakland—and how miserably he failed.Of course race doesn't explain the treatment of Campbell. It's performance.I've read countless times that he's played for a different offensive coordinator in each of his NFL seasons. The fact that he's lasted this long with a 25-35 record in today's NFL is shocking, really.When you say most African-Americans are familiar with the notion that they have to be twice as good to be equal, do you really believe that?Yes, there are only six black starting quarterbacks in the NFL. But there are also 31 black starting running backs (leaving one white).Last season, there weren't any white starting runningbacks.In 2005, not a single white halfback Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
received a carry. Why isn't this a problem?Adding to that, (according to Wikipedia) surveys show that about 57-61 percent of players in the NFL are non-white. Why is this not a problem? And this expands to all other professional sports as well.In the NBA, the percentage of white players hovers around 20 percent. Where's the hoopla on this one?In baseball, blacks argue that there aren't enough African-Americans playing the game today. But is that because of race, or because basketball has taken over the inner-city lifestyle?In the NHL, there are only a handful of black players. Why isn't there a stink made?Couldn't it just be that blacks don't want to play baseball and hockey and they are better at basketball and football in today's world?Why ignore the other side of the racism topic, you know, the facts.The numbers in the professional sports world are in favor of the African-American population. You don't hear about the need for more white players or fair treatment for them only because white's don't care.We realize what's going on has nothing to do with race. When will you?"Young and Fisher have had a number of problems over the years; and let's not pretend that Fisher, who I consider to be a good coach, is totally blameless.Young is 30-17 as a starter, and you could argue that he saved Fisher's job last season after the coach reluctantly inserted Young into the starting lineup following the Titans' horrific 0-6 start.As the starter, Young led the team to an 8-2 record down the stretch. Had he started the entire season, the Titans might have been a bigger threat to make the playoffs.During his time in Tennessee, Young certainly has shown some immaturity. He sulks. He refused to re-enter a game because the fans were booing him. He got into an altercation in a strip club this past summer, reportedly because a man insulted his school, the University of Texas. His behavior, at times, has been inexcusable, and it has undermined his incredible talent.But is it possible that some of Young's actions are a result of Fisher's lack of confidence, which has been a persistent issue since the Titans drafted Young against Fisher's wishes?Fisher and Young had completely different accounts of what unfolded after Sunday's loss to the Redskins. Undoubtedly, Young didn't handle himself like a professional; but then again, I don't know of any quarterback who would be happy about being replaced by a third-stringer.Young wanted to play despite a busted thumb. If Brett Favre had done that, we'd say he was being fiercely competitive.But this is Vince Young, so he's being a brat."Where you went wrong is making excuses for Young's actions because of Fisher's "lack of confidence."Vince Young is a 27-year old man. He is accountable for his actions, on and off the field. You agree that his behavior has been inexcusable at times, then go on to make a possible excuse. It's not Fisher's fault, it's Young's. Simple.The reason Young is looked as being a brat is because of his past. He's done this before, over and over again.You even stated his poor behavior.Why isn't Brett Favre looked at as a brat if he wanted to play despite injury? Well, it's because he's done it time and time again. We know he's a fierce competitor on the field.Young has shown almost nothing to earn that title.Plus, Brett Favre is widely considered a brat all across the nation. Just not for his on-field performance.Attempting to justify Young's tantrum by saying no quarterback would be happy about being replaced is a little off. Sure, no single player would like being replaced. But most would be professional about it.For example, Kevin Kolb was deemed the Philadelphia Eagles' franchise quarterback after McNabb's departure this past off-season. Not even a half into the season he was hurt, and Michael Vick went on to take over his starting job. Kolb wasn't exactly given his fair chance to prove himself, but he took the demotion professionally.And guess what? It was to a black quarterback."I don't question whether black quarterbacks receive opportunities in the NFL, because it's obvious they do. But how fair are those opportunities? Despite all the progress that's been made by black quarterbacks, why does it still seem as if they are held to a different standard?'Any franchise Caucasian quarterback will get unlimited opportunities to realize their potential,' says Shaun King, an African-American who quarterbacked the Tampa Bay Bucs to the NFC Championship Game in 1999. 'If Jay Cutler left Chicago, and even if he played badly, he's always going to be viewed as a franchise QB. For African-Americans, their value is strictly tied to their current performance. It's tough to stick up for Vince Young because his immaturity has been a consistent issue, but a Caucasian QB that has been as successful as Vince Young wouldn't be pulled as much as him.'In that interview with HBO, McNabb said this about quarterbacks Carson Palmer and Peyton Manning: 'Let me start by saying I love those guys. But they don't get criticized as much as we do. They don't.'He's Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
right. Manning has a Hall of Fame résumé and is one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the position. But he isn't facing an avalanche of criticism from the fans and media for the interception against the Patriots on Sunday that ended the Colts' comeback attempt and sealed the game for New England.Manning accepted responsibility for the mistake, of course. But had that been McNabb, the reaction would have been downright vitriolic."Held to a different standard? No, they're held to the standard of performing as a professional NFL quarterback. If you call Young's antics and McNabb and Campbell's lackluster performance the standard of NFL quarterbacks, you're mistaken.Why don't Manning and Palmer get criticized as much as black quarterbacks? Well, who would criticize one of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time? He's been successful, he's won a Super Bowl, and he's been a professional in each and every way.Palmer has received more and more criticism with each season that goes by. But at the time, what was there to criticize? He was a winning quarterback who was one of the best in the league at the time. He didn't stir trouble. There wasn't a reason to criticize.What about Brett Favre, Ben Roethlisberger, Tony Romo, Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, Alex Smith, etc? These are all white quarterbacks who face scrutiny. Whether it's because of their on-field performance or off-the-field antics, the criticisms are there."People are still searching for ways to blame newcomer Terrell Owens for the Bengals' disappointing 2-8 season, even though Palmer has guided the Bengals to only two winning seasons and hasn't won a playoff game during his seven years in Cincinnati.So why doesn't Palmer get the Jason Campbell treatment? Why isn't he labeled an underachiever like McNabb?Palmer and Manning certainly have been criticized, but rarely in their careers have they faced the same microscope or backlash that McNabb, Vick, or most other black starting quarterbacks have.Hard to imagine that Donovan McNabb, an 11-year veteran, doesn't have the 'cardiovascular endurance' for the Redskins' two-minute offense.The late Steve McNair and the Titans had such a bad relationship at one point that the organization locked him out of the Titans' facility. On Tuesday, according to a report out of Nashivlle, Young showed up at the Titans' practice facility and was asked to leave.'When you're an African-American president, you have to be mentally tough. If you're an African-American heading American Express, you have to be mentally tough,' says Doug Williams, who is still the only black quarterback to win a Super Bowl (for the Redskins in 1987.) 'It's a lot of stuff we kick under the rug. As an African-American, there's just some credit you're not going to get.'And there's a certain amount of respect black quarterbacks still can't seem to earn.McNabb, who despite being an 11-year veteran who has been to five NFC title games, had to listen to his coach essentially call him too out of shape and simpleminded to run his offense.McNabb, by the way, has led 17 fourth-quarter comebacks and 25 game-winning drives in his career.I'm not saying black quarterbacks are above criticism or that race plays a role every time one of them loses his job. White quarterbacks are benched and second-guessed, too, same as black ones. It comes with the position, regardless of race.But if most of us agree that racism is still an issue in this country, how can we dismiss its influence in sports?The history of black quarterbacks in the NFL isn't pretty. Things have come a long way since Williams played, but it would be foolish to think that lingering perceptions and biases don't still exist. Let's not forget that while Vick was imprisoned for dogfighting, more than a few analysts suggested he should change his position when he returned to the field. That's what NFL scouts once told Warren Moon he had to do if he wanted to be drafted at all.After McNabb made his comments to HBO, Campbell and Young were quick to say they didn't feel like race was a factor in how they were perceived.I wonder if they feel that way now."Who would blame Owens for the Bengals' poor season? That's reaching for something that isn't there. Again, Palmer and Manning aren't criticized as much because there isn't much to criticize.McNabb irritated a lot of fans in Philadelphia because of how he came off as unenthusiastic and apathetic. Nobody viewed him as a black quarterback. He was just a quarterback who felt the need to label himself as a black quarterback.Then there's Michael Vick.The man mercilessly tortured and murdered countless dogs. He was never a model citizen and showed plenty of irresponsible behavior while with the Falcons. If that's not justification for criticism, what is? And now he's begun to redeem himself in the national spotlight. He's been given yet another chance, and people are accepting him once again.Blacks need to be mentally tough? We all need to be mentally tough.NFL coaches today are being shoved out the door in what feels like a weekly basis. Most of those coaches are white.Almost every position in the NFL is never secure, so no matter who's on the the field starting on Sunday's, they each need to be mentally tough.Regardless of color.I don't care if it "seems" like black quarterbacks can't get respect these days. It's simply not true.Nobody can really get respect these days. One day you're in the spotlight, the next, you're out.Whether you'd like to believe it or not, McNabb received the loudest ovation when entering the field of any player each and every Sunday during his tenure with the Eagles. He wasn't traded away because of lack of respect. It was due to the fact that he couldn't win a Super Bowl. In fact, the Eagles showed tremendous respect by sending him to a team he requested to go to, a team in their very own division for that matter.That's respect.NFL Scouts tell players all the time they need to change their position, or that they simply won't make it in the league. Color has no influence on that. Using two examples of Vick and Warren Moon is pathetic, honestly.I beg to differ that most of us country-wide see racism as a lingering problem in sports. It's only those narrow-minded thinkers that are too ignorant to realize that racism is a thing of the past.It's people like Campbell and Young that are right when they say race is not an issue. Bryant Gumbel is also frequently making note of the fact that color is no longer a problem.If blacks really wanted to be equal, can't they just be quarterbacks? Why does Donovan McNabb have to regard himself as a black quarterback? Never once have I heard a white man call any African-American player a "black" quarterback/ running back/etc.Quit reaching for what is not there.Racism does not exist in today's world of sports.Enough of the soft-shell feelings and paranoid attitudes.This is 2010.Our President is African-American, and one could argue that his race is a huge reason as to why.If anything, the professional sports world is more favored to blacks.The Rooney Rule forces teams to interview at least one minority coach before hiring any candidate.The quarterback Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
position is dominated by whites, yet the running back, wide receiver, and secondary positions are dominated by blacks.The facts are the facts, don't ignore them.You can use perception and gut feelings all you want, but in the end all that leads to is biased and irrational thinking.Donovan McNabb, Jason Campbell, Vince Young and Michael Vick are not black quarterbacks. Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Carson Palmer and Tony Romo are not white quarterbacks. They're quarterbacks.The only way for true equality is to eliminate these monikers based on race and religion. And quite frankly, these labels are coming from the one's crying out for equality in the first place. If you wish to be equal, don't separate yourself from the rest.The problem of racism doesn't lie in the hands of those taking the criticism. It lies within those dishing it out. Take a long, hard look in the mirror and maybe you'll see that, too, Jemele.
opinion on the subject at hand, I think the smarter move would be to address each and every point Hill made in her commentary.Let's begin."Has anyone else noticed all the drama surrounding black quarterbacks during this NFL season?• Jason Campbell, who has been fighting for his job all season in Oakland, was benched for the second time this year against Pittsburgh on Sunday.• Six-time Pro Bowler Donovan McNabb was replaced by Rex Grossman during the final 1:50 of a close game against the Detroit Lions earlier this month because Redskins coach Mike Shanahan claimed Grossman was better suited to run the team's two-minute offense. Shanahan questioned McNabb's "cardiovascular endurance."Chris McGrath/Getty Images• On Sunday, Titans coach Jeff Fisher demoted Vince Young to benchwarmer after Young threw a tantrum following Tennessee's 19-16 loss to Washington. Although thumb surgery is the official reason Young's season is over, Fisher made it clear before he knew the severity of Young's injury that his 27-year-old quarterback was being removed as the starter.The Raiders' Jason Campbell watched the fourth quarter of the Pittsburgh game from the bench.In 2007, McNabb told HBO's "Real Sports" that black quarterbacks in the NFL face more pressure and tougher criticism than white quarterbacks do. The responses were predictable.Racism is not an issue in the NFL.Stop pulling the race card.Quit whining.But if you've paid attention to how some of the league's black quarterbacks have been treated this season, McNabb's words seem even truer now than they were three years ago.I'm not calling anyone out for being racist, and I realize this might seem like an odd conversation to have considering that Michael Vick is on the cover of this week's Sports Illustrated and his comeback is one of the best sports stories of the year.Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesI'm also not overlooking the facts that Campbell played poorly in the games in which he was benched, that Young's antics in Tennessee are largely to blame for his problems with Fisher, and that Shanahan has had difficult relationships with plenty of white quarterbacks in the past.But it still seems as if race is playing a role in how some black quarterbacks are treated, managed, perceived and, ultimately, judged."Certainly I've noticed the drama surrounding quarterbacks this season.But they're quarterbacks, not black quarterbacks.Brett Favre has been scrutinized over the past three seasons more than any black quarterback to play the game.Ben Roethlisberger faced enormous scrutiny for his irresponsible behavior this past off-season.Do you turn a blind eye to those situations, only to pull out the race card when three black quarterbacks face the smallest scrutiny?I hadn't heard a peep about Campbell's benching all season before this, and he's been downright terrible Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
when he's played.Donovan McNabb is 28th in the league in passer rating, and has more interceptions thrown than he does touchdowns.Marc Serota/Getty ImagesVince Young walked out on his team Sunday, and it isn't his first tantrum with the Titans.A number of white quarterbacks have been benched this year, not because of their skin color, but because of their performance.The same goes for black quarterbacks.The number of contradictions just in these first few paragraphs is humorous more than anything. The last four paragraphs are filled with double-takes and 180's every other sentence."McNabb's words seem even truer now than they were three years ago...I'm not calling anyone out for being racist...I'm also not overlooking the facts that Campbell played poorly in the games in which he was benched, that Young's antics in Tennessee are largely to blame for his problems with Fisher, and that Shanahan has had difficult relationships with plenty of white quarterbacks in the past...But it still seems as if race is playing a role in how some black quarterbacks are treated, managed, perceived and, ultimately, judged."Alright, let's try and decipher this. McNabb's remarks on racism are still true today, but you're not calling anyone racist. You're not overlooking the justification made for benching these quarterbacks, but it still "seems" as if race is playing a role?Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesSo what exactly is your point?I'm currently in high school, and on a daily basis in my English class I am reminded to keep "weaker" words such as think, believe, hope, seems, etc. out of my essays.Yet your basis for your points early on is that it "seems" like race is playing a role.You know, it seems like you don't have much factual basis for your argument, either.No, scratch that. You don't."The first time Campbell was benched this season was during halftime of the second game of the season.The impatience the Raiders have shown with Campbell is stunning. They gave up a fourth-round pick to get him, and were convinced he was the answer after things went south with draft bust JaMarcus Russell, another black quarterback.Campbell will start on Sunday against Miami, but it's baffling that he's still fighting with Bruce Gradkowski—whose career record as a starter is 5-11—for the No. 1 job.When he's good, Vince Young is very good. But he's also been immature at times.I know race doesn't completely explain the Raiders' treatment of Campbell or why he didn't work out for the Redskins. But Campbell's shortcomings are rarely clarified with the same perspective as some white quarterbacks.You hear about his 25-35 record as a starter, but you don't hear that he's played for a different offensive coordinator in every season since the Redskins drafted him in the first round in 2005.Most African-Americans are familiar with the notion that we have to be twice as good just to be considered equal with whites. And considering that there are only six black starting quarterbacks in the NFL, there isn't a lot of room for error."Campbell was benched after halftime of the second game because of how poorly he was playing. A 69.7 rating after week one, followed by a 42.9 rating in week two would have any quarterback on a team like the Raiders riding the pine.The fact is, Campbell wasn't performing.Pointing out JaMarcus Russell doesn't help, seeing how many chances he was given to redeem himself in Oakland—and how miserably he failed.Of course race doesn't explain the treatment of Campbell. It's performance.I've read countless times that he's played for a different offensive coordinator in each of his NFL seasons. The fact that he's lasted this long with a 25-35 record in today's NFL is shocking, really.When you say most African-Americans are familiar with the notion that they have to be twice as good to be equal, do you really believe that?Yes, there are only six black starting quarterbacks in the NFL. But there are also 31 black starting running backs (leaving one white).Last season, there weren't any white starting runningbacks.In 2005, not a single white halfback Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
received a carry. Why isn't this a problem?Adding to that, (according to Wikipedia) surveys show that about 57-61 percent of players in the NFL are non-white. Why is this not a problem? And this expands to all other professional sports as well.In the NBA, the percentage of white players hovers around 20 percent. Where's the hoopla on this one?In baseball, blacks argue that there aren't enough African-Americans playing the game today. But is that because of race, or because basketball has taken over the inner-city lifestyle?In the NHL, there are only a handful of black players. Why isn't there a stink made?Couldn't it just be that blacks don't want to play baseball and hockey and they are better at basketball and football in today's world?Why ignore the other side of the racism topic, you know, the facts.The numbers in the professional sports world are in favor of the African-American population. You don't hear about the need for more white players or fair treatment for them only because white's don't care.We realize what's going on has nothing to do with race. When will you?"Young and Fisher have had a number of problems over the years; and let's not pretend that Fisher, who I consider to be a good coach, is totally blameless.Young is 30-17 as a starter, and you could argue that he saved Fisher's job last season after the coach reluctantly inserted Young into the starting lineup following the Titans' horrific 0-6 start.As the starter, Young led the team to an 8-2 record down the stretch. Had he started the entire season, the Titans might have been a bigger threat to make the playoffs.During his time in Tennessee, Young certainly has shown some immaturity. He sulks. He refused to re-enter a game because the fans were booing him. He got into an altercation in a strip club this past summer, reportedly because a man insulted his school, the University of Texas. His behavior, at times, has been inexcusable, and it has undermined his incredible talent.But is it possible that some of Young's actions are a result of Fisher's lack of confidence, which has been a persistent issue since the Titans drafted Young against Fisher's wishes?Fisher and Young had completely different accounts of what unfolded after Sunday's loss to the Redskins. Undoubtedly, Young didn't handle himself like a professional; but then again, I don't know of any quarterback who would be happy about being replaced by a third-stringer.Young wanted to play despite a busted thumb. If Brett Favre had done that, we'd say he was being fiercely competitive.But this is Vince Young, so he's being a brat."Where you went wrong is making excuses for Young's actions because of Fisher's "lack of confidence."Vince Young is a 27-year old man. He is accountable for his actions, on and off the field. You agree that his behavior has been inexcusable at times, then go on to make a possible excuse. It's not Fisher's fault, it's Young's. Simple.The reason Young is looked as being a brat is because of his past. He's done this before, over and over again.You even stated his poor behavior.Why isn't Brett Favre looked at as a brat if he wanted to play despite injury? Well, it's because he's done it time and time again. We know he's a fierce competitor on the field.Young has shown almost nothing to earn that title.Plus, Brett Favre is widely considered a brat all across the nation. Just not for his on-field performance.Attempting to justify Young's tantrum by saying no quarterback would be happy about being replaced is a little off. Sure, no single player would like being replaced. But most would be professional about it.For example, Kevin Kolb was deemed the Philadelphia Eagles' franchise quarterback after McNabb's departure this past off-season. Not even a half into the season he was hurt, and Michael Vick went on to take over his starting job. Kolb wasn't exactly given his fair chance to prove himself, but he took the demotion professionally.And guess what? It was to a black quarterback."I don't question whether black quarterbacks receive opportunities in the NFL, because it's obvious they do. But how fair are those opportunities? Despite all the progress that's been made by black quarterbacks, why does it still seem as if they are held to a different standard?'Any franchise Caucasian quarterback will get unlimited opportunities to realize their potential,' says Shaun King, an African-American who quarterbacked the Tampa Bay Bucs to the NFC Championship Game in 1999. 'If Jay Cutler left Chicago, and even if he played badly, he's always going to be viewed as a franchise QB. For African-Americans, their value is strictly tied to their current performance. It's tough to stick up for Vince Young because his immaturity has been a consistent issue, but a Caucasian QB that has been as successful as Vince Young wouldn't be pulled as much as him.'In that interview with HBO, McNabb said this about quarterbacks Carson Palmer and Peyton Manning: 'Let me start by saying I love those guys. But they don't get criticized as much as we do. They don't.'He's Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
right. Manning has a Hall of Fame résumé and is one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the position. But he isn't facing an avalanche of criticism from the fans and media for the interception against the Patriots on Sunday that ended the Colts' comeback attempt and sealed the game for New England.Manning accepted responsibility for the mistake, of course. But had that been McNabb, the reaction would have been downright vitriolic."Held to a different standard? No, they're held to the standard of performing as a professional NFL quarterback. If you call Young's antics and McNabb and Campbell's lackluster performance the standard of NFL quarterbacks, you're mistaken.Why don't Manning and Palmer get criticized as much as black quarterbacks? Well, who would criticize one of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time? He's been successful, he's won a Super Bowl, and he's been a professional in each and every way.Palmer has received more and more criticism with each season that goes by. But at the time, what was there to criticize? He was a winning quarterback who was one of the best in the league at the time. He didn't stir trouble. There wasn't a reason to criticize.What about Brett Favre, Ben Roethlisberger, Tony Romo, Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, Alex Smith, etc? These are all white quarterbacks who face scrutiny. Whether it's because of their on-field performance or off-the-field antics, the criticisms are there."People are still searching for ways to blame newcomer Terrell Owens for the Bengals' disappointing 2-8 season, even though Palmer has guided the Bengals to only two winning seasons and hasn't won a playoff game during his seven years in Cincinnati.So why doesn't Palmer get the Jason Campbell treatment? Why isn't he labeled an underachiever like McNabb?Palmer and Manning certainly have been criticized, but rarely in their careers have they faced the same microscope or backlash that McNabb, Vick, or most other black starting quarterbacks have.Hard to imagine that Donovan McNabb, an 11-year veteran, doesn't have the 'cardiovascular endurance' for the Redskins' two-minute offense.The late Steve McNair and the Titans had such a bad relationship at one point that the organization locked him out of the Titans' facility. On Tuesday, according to a report out of Nashivlle, Young showed up at the Titans' practice facility and was asked to leave.'When you're an African-American president, you have to be mentally tough. If you're an African-American heading American Express, you have to be mentally tough,' says Doug Williams, who is still the only black quarterback to win a Super Bowl (for the Redskins in 1987.) 'It's a lot of stuff we kick under the rug. As an African-American, there's just some credit you're not going to get.'And there's a certain amount of respect black quarterbacks still can't seem to earn.McNabb, who despite being an 11-year veteran who has been to five NFC title games, had to listen to his coach essentially call him too out of shape and simpleminded to run his offense.McNabb, by the way, has led 17 fourth-quarter comebacks and 25 game-winning drives in his career.I'm not saying black quarterbacks are above criticism or that race plays a role every time one of them loses his job. White quarterbacks are benched and second-guessed, too, same as black ones. It comes with the position, regardless of race.But if most of us agree that racism is still an issue in this country, how can we dismiss its influence in sports?The history of black quarterbacks in the NFL isn't pretty. Things have come a long way since Williams played, but it would be foolish to think that lingering perceptions and biases don't still exist. Let's not forget that while Vick was imprisoned for dogfighting, more than a few analysts suggested he should change his position when he returned to the field. That's what NFL scouts once told Warren Moon he had to do if he wanted to be drafted at all.After McNabb made his comments to HBO, Campbell and Young were quick to say they didn't feel like race was a factor in how they were perceived.I wonder if they feel that way now."Who would blame Owens for the Bengals' poor season? That's reaching for something that isn't there. Again, Palmer and Manning aren't criticized as much because there isn't much to criticize.McNabb irritated a lot of fans in Philadelphia because of how he came off as unenthusiastic and apathetic. Nobody viewed him as a black quarterback. He was just a quarterback who felt the need to label himself as a black quarterback.Then there's Michael Vick.The man mercilessly tortured and murdered countless dogs. He was never a model citizen and showed plenty of irresponsible behavior while with the Falcons. If that's not justification for criticism, what is? And now he's begun to redeem himself in the national spotlight. He's been given yet another chance, and people are accepting him once again.Blacks need to be mentally tough? We all need to be mentally tough.NFL coaches today are being shoved out the door in what feels like a weekly basis. Most of those coaches are white.Almost every position in the NFL is never secure, so no matter who's on the the field starting on Sunday's, they each need to be mentally tough.Regardless of color.I don't care if it "seems" like black quarterbacks can't get respect these days. It's simply not true.Nobody can really get respect these days. One day you're in the spotlight, the next, you're out.Whether you'd like to believe it or not, McNabb received the loudest ovation when entering the field of any player each and every Sunday during his tenure with the Eagles. He wasn't traded away because of lack of respect. It was due to the fact that he couldn't win a Super Bowl. In fact, the Eagles showed tremendous respect by sending him to a team he requested to go to, a team in their very own division for that matter.That's respect.NFL Scouts tell players all the time they need to change their position, or that they simply won't make it in the league. Color has no influence on that. Using two examples of Vick and Warren Moon is pathetic, honestly.I beg to differ that most of us country-wide see racism as a lingering problem in sports. It's only those narrow-minded thinkers that are too ignorant to realize that racism is a thing of the past.It's people like Campbell and Young that are right when they say race is not an issue. Bryant Gumbel is also frequently making note of the fact that color is no longer a problem.If blacks really wanted to be equal, can't they just be quarterbacks? Why does Donovan McNabb have to regard himself as a black quarterback? Never once have I heard a white man call any African-American player a "black" quarterback/ running back/etc.Quit reaching for what is not there.Racism does not exist in today's world of sports.Enough of the soft-shell feelings and paranoid attitudes.This is 2010.Our President is African-American, and one could argue that his race is a huge reason as to why.If anything, the professional sports world is more favored to blacks.The Rooney Rule forces teams to interview at least one minority coach before hiring any candidate.The quarterback Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
position is dominated by whites, yet the running back, wide receiver, and secondary positions are dominated by blacks.The facts are the facts, don't ignore them.You can use perception and gut feelings all you want, but in the end all that leads to is biased and irrational thinking.Donovan McNabb, Jason Campbell, Vince Young and Michael Vick are not black quarterbacks. Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Carson Palmer and Tony Romo are not white quarterbacks. They're quarterbacks.The only way for true equality is to eliminate these monikers based on race and religion. And quite frankly, these labels are coming from the one's crying out for equality in the first place. If you wish to be equal, don't separate yourself from the rest.The problem of racism doesn't lie in the hands of those taking the criticism. It lies within those dishing it out. Take a long, hard look in the mirror and maybe you'll see that, too, Jemele.
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