For all of my followers out there, from here on out the blog will be Sports Kraze at
http://sportskraze.wordpress.com/
Hope you will all still subscribe to this feed and follow..spread the word
-Kraze
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Edition 14 "Is He Superman?"
The man with the golden legs, has a "back injury." Yes folks, it is possible for the Adrian Peterson to get hurt. Though most of the times he is a blur, occasionally defenders are able to get their paws on him and bring him down to earth. In college he spent much of his tenure with the Sooners on the sidelines with injuries.
Peterson widely regarded as the best running back in the NFL is currently leading the league again in rushing yards and is leading a high powered Vikings offense. People have been presently surprised by the efficiency of Brett Favre thus far as the quarterback for the Vikings.
Now, I am as tired of hearing about Brett Favre in the press or in the news as any of you but this topic definitely pertains.
Nearly any quarterback in the league would be tearing it up on opponents with a running back like Adrian Peterson. As long as you have receivers who can catch the ball, it is single coverage all day with teams highly focusing on containing AP.
Peterson has a crushing, powerful running style, mixed in with outstanding speed and even some finesse at times. He is an all around running back who can do it all. The sky is the limit for the man nicknamed "All Day."
With his great mix of speed and power, he is more comparable to Superman than Flash, or any other Superhero, since he has the all around package. I am going to call him Superman in purple from now on.
My question for you all today, is Brett Favre really as good as his 77% completion percentage and his 110.2 passer rating or is he riding Peterson's Superman cape to these great numbers?
Stay tuned for edition 15.
-Kraze
Peterson widely regarded as the best running back in the NFL is currently leading the league again in rushing yards and is leading a high powered Vikings offense. People have been presently surprised by the efficiency of Brett Favre thus far as the quarterback for the Vikings.
Now, I am as tired of hearing about Brett Favre in the press or in the news as any of you but this topic definitely pertains.
Nearly any quarterback in the league would be tearing it up on opponents with a running back like Adrian Peterson. As long as you have receivers who can catch the ball, it is single coverage all day with teams highly focusing on containing AP.
Peterson has a crushing, powerful running style, mixed in with outstanding speed and even some finesse at times. He is an all around running back who can do it all. The sky is the limit for the man nicknamed "All Day."
With his great mix of speed and power, he is more comparable to Superman than Flash, or any other Superhero, since he has the all around package. I am going to call him Superman in purple from now on.
My question for you all today, is Brett Favre really as good as his 77% completion percentage and his 110.2 passer rating or is he riding Peterson's Superman cape to these great numbers?
Stay tuned for edition 15.
-Kraze
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Edition 13 "Bobby Cox: A Coaching Legend"
Today is a sad day for baseball. One of its greatest icons will be leaving in a year. It was announced that the Atlanta Braves Manager has one more year left in his illustrious managerial career. He signed a one year contract extension and says that he will be retiring after the 2010 season. Cox will remain with the organization as an advisor in hopes to lead the Braves to another World Series Title.
Well hats off to Bobby Cox, possibly the best manager of our generation. In a day where managers get fired about as frequently as people watch Baseball Tonight, Cox has defied the odds and quietly gone about his business since the late 70's as a manager. His first stint with the Braves was only a few years, then he spent some time with the Blue Jays and was back to managing in Atlanta in 1990.
Cox is currently 4th on the all time list of victories as a manager. He also had a streak where he led the Braves to 14 consecutive playoff appearances and a world championship in 1995. But this isn't what necessarily makes Cox such a renowned manager. Over the years, he has gained respect from his great sportsmanship and just very simple manner of going about winning each and every day.
He has assembled arguably some of the greatest pitching staffs the MLB has ever seen and really made the term pitching wins championships a reality in this hitter friendly era. And though the game has changed dramatically during his coaching tenure, he has been able to keep up with the shifting style of play and produce consistent winners in a free agent era where consistency of making the playoffs is unheard of for teams other than the Yankees and Red Sox.
Cox is a people person. His players adore him, yet at the same time they understand his disciplined nature. Players love playing for Bobby Cox. Whether as a fan you like the Braves or not, you respect Bobby Cox and would only dislike the Braves because they are your team's rival or have been consistent winners for the majority of the past 20 years and you are tired of them.
Best of luck to Cox and the Braves and I am looking forward to when he is bestowed with a plaque to Cooperstown.
Stay tuned for Edition 14 coming soon.
-Kraze
Well hats off to Bobby Cox, possibly the best manager of our generation. In a day where managers get fired about as frequently as people watch Baseball Tonight, Cox has defied the odds and quietly gone about his business since the late 70's as a manager. His first stint with the Braves was only a few years, then he spent some time with the Blue Jays and was back to managing in Atlanta in 1990.
Cox is currently 4th on the all time list of victories as a manager. He also had a streak where he led the Braves to 14 consecutive playoff appearances and a world championship in 1995. But this isn't what necessarily makes Cox such a renowned manager. Over the years, he has gained respect from his great sportsmanship and just very simple manner of going about winning each and every day.
He has assembled arguably some of the greatest pitching staffs the MLB has ever seen and really made the term pitching wins championships a reality in this hitter friendly era. And though the game has changed dramatically during his coaching tenure, he has been able to keep up with the shifting style of play and produce consistent winners in a free agent era where consistency of making the playoffs is unheard of for teams other than the Yankees and Red Sox.
Cox is a people person. His players adore him, yet at the same time they understand his disciplined nature. Players love playing for Bobby Cox. Whether as a fan you like the Braves or not, you respect Bobby Cox and would only dislike the Braves because they are your team's rival or have been consistent winners for the majority of the past 20 years and you are tired of them.
Best of luck to Cox and the Braves and I am looking forward to when he is bestowed with a plaque to Cooperstown.
Stay tuned for Edition 14 coming soon.
-Kraze
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Edition 12 "Baby Talk"
You would have to be living under a rock to not have heard about the continued bickering between big time College Football coaches Urban Meyer and Lane Kiffin. I mentioned in an earlier post that I was very confused on how this game between two programs that were once great rivals was the marquee matchup last weekend.
There were plenty of other respectable games, but this one by far received the most media attention. In addition, I was wrong in predicting that Tennessee would get Gator chomped in the Swamp. The Vols held their own and Tennessee's star safety Eric Berry got a shot in on Tim Tebow that every defensive player across the country has been dreaming of for 4 years.
People knew that Lane Kiffin would continue to talk in his attempt to save a falling program and bring them back to the forefront of College Football. Though, very immature, Kiffin's antics are expected and best of luck to him in bringing Tennessee back to contention in the SEC. But I thought that Urban Meyer was above all this nonsense. Apparently he is not..
Meyer broke a golden rule in making excuses about his team's lackluster victory this past Saturday over the Volunteers. He hinted that many of his players were exhibiting flu like symptoms and that Lane Kiffin and the Volunteers were not playing to win.
Mr. Meyer, I believe that you need to grow up my friend. I know that you have built a powerhouse program and won 2 national titles, but that does not give you the right to make excuses for a poor performance and point fingers at the opposing coach. Coaches learn to not make excuses for a team's poor performance even when they are coaching the pee wees.
Yes, Kiffin is going to talk. He has been doing it since day 1. Meyer has been praised for his maturity and obviously the grooming of America's favorite child Tim Tebow (not my favorite though). This was not the right decision Urban. In this argument, Kiffin is coming out on top because he got Meyer to bite. He got Meyer to lose sight of all that has made him so great the past few years and riled him up.
So the Gators may have won the game on the field, but Kiffin and the Volunteers have a slight edge in the whole scheme of things..
Besides, Jacory Harris and the Hurricanes are coming Gator nation. Enjoy this year on top, because the state of Florida is going to go back up for grabs real soon with the resurgence of the Hurricanes and the Seminoles.
Both Kiffin and Meyer make millions each year to coach football. They need to quit bickering like babies and go about their business in a professional manner..
Stay tuned for edition 13 coming soon.
-Kraze
There were plenty of other respectable games, but this one by far received the most media attention. In addition, I was wrong in predicting that Tennessee would get Gator chomped in the Swamp. The Vols held their own and Tennessee's star safety Eric Berry got a shot in on Tim Tebow that every defensive player across the country has been dreaming of for 4 years.
People knew that Lane Kiffin would continue to talk in his attempt to save a falling program and bring them back to the forefront of College Football. Though, very immature, Kiffin's antics are expected and best of luck to him in bringing Tennessee back to contention in the SEC. But I thought that Urban Meyer was above all this nonsense. Apparently he is not..
Meyer broke a golden rule in making excuses about his team's lackluster victory this past Saturday over the Volunteers. He hinted that many of his players were exhibiting flu like symptoms and that Lane Kiffin and the Volunteers were not playing to win.
Mr. Meyer, I believe that you need to grow up my friend. I know that you have built a powerhouse program and won 2 national titles, but that does not give you the right to make excuses for a poor performance and point fingers at the opposing coach. Coaches learn to not make excuses for a team's poor performance even when they are coaching the pee wees.
Yes, Kiffin is going to talk. He has been doing it since day 1. Meyer has been praised for his maturity and obviously the grooming of America's favorite child Tim Tebow (not my favorite though). This was not the right decision Urban. In this argument, Kiffin is coming out on top because he got Meyer to bite. He got Meyer to lose sight of all that has made him so great the past few years and riled him up.
So the Gators may have won the game on the field, but Kiffin and the Volunteers have a slight edge in the whole scheme of things..
Besides, Jacory Harris and the Hurricanes are coming Gator nation. Enjoy this year on top, because the state of Florida is going to go back up for grabs real soon with the resurgence of the Hurricanes and the Seminoles.
Both Kiffin and Meyer make millions each year to coach football. They need to quit bickering like babies and go about their business in a professional manner..
Stay tuned for edition 13 coming soon.
-Kraze
Monday, September 21, 2009
Edition 11 "The Old Stay Young"
Ray Lewis once again proved ageless coming up with the big play to help the Ravens solidify a big victory over the San Diego Chargers and put their stake on first place in the AFC North.
The Ravens gave up an eye opening 436 passing yards and 474 total yards. Though very uncharacteristic of the normally suffocating defensive efforts Ravens fans have become accustomed to, their fearless leader still came up with the big play when it was needed. Ray Lewis has maybe lost a step over the years from the prime of his career in the early 2000's, but he has not lost anything mentally. He read Philip Rivers snap count like a book and shot the whole.
Ray Lewis, possibly the greatest linebacker of all time still is coming up with big plays at the dinosaur age of 34! Ray was very modest after the play, but plays like this are a testament to hard work over the entire course of a career on the field, and in the film study room. Though he did not make the best decisions off the field early in his career, his football decisions have been perfect. Lewis is defying logic in continuing to will a team to big victories.
Do not sleep on this Raven's team. Flacco has the swagger of a winner and the offense is for once healthy (for once Todd Heap is at full strength). They now have an early one game lead over the hated Steelers and are looking to win the AFC North outright this year.
The AFC North will be an extremely competitive division this year and the old man will definitely have his say on the outcome.
Stay tuned for Edition 12 coming soon.
-Kraze
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Edition 10 "An Atypical Day in Who Dey Nation"
The Bengals pulled out a big W today at the sacred grounds of Lambeau Field over a Packers team that appears to be in the middle of the pack. The Bengals at 1-1 are a team with many question marks and hopefully a good few of these questions will be answered in a positive fashion next week against the hated rival Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday.
The Bengals came out on fire offensively in the first quarter and scored with the utmost ease. Following the score the Packers came right back with a rebuttal in the form of a Donald Driver touchdown. This is basically how the game went all day ending in a victory for the visiting Bengals 31-24.
This game was an extremely unique game. In the first half, Carson Palmer showed flashes of 05, and then at times he showed flashes of a timid high school quarterback. He made one of the oldest defensive backs in the League, Charles Woodson, the Heisman Trophy Winner in 1997 look like a Hall of Famer at times. On the pick 6 in the 2nd quarter, I wanted to pull my hair out. This feeling occurs at least once on any Sunday afternoon for a Bengals fan.
In this game, all 3 of our top receivers caught touchdown passes. Carson's first TD passes since October 5th of 08. Possibly the weirdest occurrence of the game was the lack of celebration by Chris Henry after scoring the TD. Could he be maturing before our eyes and starting to realize what it is like to have been there before? Chad certainly hasn't, though his celebrations are always entertaining.
The Bengals also at times exhibited a great mix of pass and run with Cedric Benson having a career day. Even with all of these great things happening on the offensive side of the ball and the defense staking out in Aaron Rodgers backfield (Antwan Odom had 5 sacks), the Packers still had a shot in the end to win it.
The Bengals played their hearts out today and even though it was not pretty with 13 penalties, they got the win on the road. The question marks will continue into next week against the defending Super Bowl Champs and I will continue to live the life of a Bengals fan, never knowing what is coming next. On this particular day though, the Bengals come home as winners.
Stay tuned for Edition 11 coming soon.
-Kraze
The Bengals came out on fire offensively in the first quarter and scored with the utmost ease. Following the score the Packers came right back with a rebuttal in the form of a Donald Driver touchdown. This is basically how the game went all day ending in a victory for the visiting Bengals 31-24.
This game was an extremely unique game. In the first half, Carson Palmer showed flashes of 05, and then at times he showed flashes of a timid high school quarterback. He made one of the oldest defensive backs in the League, Charles Woodson, the Heisman Trophy Winner in 1997 look like a Hall of Famer at times. On the pick 6 in the 2nd quarter, I wanted to pull my hair out. This feeling occurs at least once on any Sunday afternoon for a Bengals fan.
In this game, all 3 of our top receivers caught touchdown passes. Carson's first TD passes since October 5th of 08. Possibly the weirdest occurrence of the game was the lack of celebration by Chris Henry after scoring the TD. Could he be maturing before our eyes and starting to realize what it is like to have been there before? Chad certainly hasn't, though his celebrations are always entertaining.
The Bengals also at times exhibited a great mix of pass and run with Cedric Benson having a career day. Even with all of these great things happening on the offensive side of the ball and the defense staking out in Aaron Rodgers backfield (Antwan Odom had 5 sacks), the Packers still had a shot in the end to win it.
The Bengals played their hearts out today and even though it was not pretty with 13 penalties, they got the win on the road. The question marks will continue into next week against the defending Super Bowl Champs and I will continue to live the life of a Bengals fan, never knowing what is coming next. On this particular day though, the Bengals come home as winners.
Stay tuned for Edition 11 coming soon.
-Kraze
Friday, September 18, 2009
Edition 9 "Gator Chomp"
As I mentioned in an earlier post, the chomping Florida Gators make me sick. They are a heck of a team with an outstanding coach..but if you are not a Gators fan, you have to be tired of hearing about them. Their game this weekend against a subpar Tennessee team has turned into the marquee game of the weekend.
This is a laughable matter. A Tennessee team that just lost to a mediocre at best UCLA team comes into the Swamp prepared to get Gator chomped and this is the marquee game of the weekend? Now I am not trying to take away from this once storied rivalry back in the Philip Fulmer and Steve Spurrier days, but now, this game is a joke.
Tennessee will be lucky to come within 30 points of the Gators and all the fuss is over a couple of publicity stunts that the new Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin made to bring some attention to the declining program. I am not excited to here Tim Tebows talk after the butt whooping how this was just another game on the road to hopefully another SEC Title.
Lane Kiffin and the Vols will get stuck in the mud of the swamp and get whooped all the way back to Rocky Top. Maybe Lane Kiffin will turn this program around over the next few years, but these are Fulmer's players and they are vastly overmatched.
Hopefully the Tigers of Baton Rouge can start to hit stride and upset the Gators on October 10th..
Stay tuned for Edition 10 coming soon.
-Kraze
This is a laughable matter. A Tennessee team that just lost to a mediocre at best UCLA team comes into the Swamp prepared to get Gator chomped and this is the marquee game of the weekend? Now I am not trying to take away from this once storied rivalry back in the Philip Fulmer and Steve Spurrier days, but now, this game is a joke.
Tennessee will be lucky to come within 30 points of the Gators and all the fuss is over a couple of publicity stunts that the new Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin made to bring some attention to the declining program. I am not excited to here Tim Tebows talk after the butt whooping how this was just another game on the road to hopefully another SEC Title.
Lane Kiffin and the Vols will get stuck in the mud of the swamp and get whooped all the way back to Rocky Top. Maybe Lane Kiffin will turn this program around over the next few years, but these are Fulmer's players and they are vastly overmatched.
Hopefully the Tigers of Baton Rouge can start to hit stride and upset the Gators on October 10th..
Stay tuned for Edition 10 coming soon.
-Kraze
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Edition 8 "Hurricanes in Florida"
Well the Miami Hurricanes looked like a team ready to take on all challengers tonight. They put on a dominating performance over a solid Georgia Tech team and made a statement to the rest of the ACC and the country. Are the Hurricanes back?
It appears that way. With a fantastic quarterback in Jacory Harris, and a defense full of hard hitters, this team seems to be developing a swagger of the old Canes!! Most people originally did not think that the Hurricanes would make it through the trap of the first 4 games on their schedule. Next they take on a very tough Virginia Tech team followed by the always dangerous Oklahoma Sooners. This team appears ready to take on all opponents. They have beaten 2 solid ranked opponents in front of national audiences and look to be developing the confidence of a top 15 team in the country.
In my eyes, this is a great thing. Who doesn't want Florida to start being up for grabs again on which school is College Football king? The days when it was debatable who the top team in the state would be. The days of 3 powerhouses in the state; Florida State, Florida, and Miami.
I am frankly beginning to become nauseated in hearing about Florida and the saint Tim Tebow. Urban Meyer has done a fantastic job, but the state of Florida needs to become competitive again. Miami appears ready to become competitive again. Though this year Florida has appeared to be all but invincable against the Junior Varsity opponents they have played thus far, Miami looks to be setting the tone heading into the next couple of years. Tim Tebow can't stay in college forever. Sorry Gator fans.
Tim Tebow, after leading the Gators to another BCS game this year will become a decent tight end in the NFL or a backup quarterback. This in no way will take away from his phenomenal college career.
Jacory Harris has been quoted as saying that "The Miami offense cannot be stopped." It appears that way thus far. Florida, get ready for a changing of the guard..
Stay tuned for Edition 9
-Kraze
It appears that way. With a fantastic quarterback in Jacory Harris, and a defense full of hard hitters, this team seems to be developing a swagger of the old Canes!! Most people originally did not think that the Hurricanes would make it through the trap of the first 4 games on their schedule. Next they take on a very tough Virginia Tech team followed by the always dangerous Oklahoma Sooners. This team appears ready to take on all opponents. They have beaten 2 solid ranked opponents in front of national audiences and look to be developing the confidence of a top 15 team in the country.
In my eyes, this is a great thing. Who doesn't want Florida to start being up for grabs again on which school is College Football king? The days when it was debatable who the top team in the state would be. The days of 3 powerhouses in the state; Florida State, Florida, and Miami.
I am frankly beginning to become nauseated in hearing about Florida and the saint Tim Tebow. Urban Meyer has done a fantastic job, but the state of Florida needs to become competitive again. Miami appears ready to become competitive again. Though this year Florida has appeared to be all but invincable against the Junior Varsity opponents they have played thus far, Miami looks to be setting the tone heading into the next couple of years. Tim Tebow can't stay in college forever. Sorry Gator fans.
Tim Tebow, after leading the Gators to another BCS game this year will become a decent tight end in the NFL or a backup quarterback. This in no way will take away from his phenomenal college career.
Jacory Harris has been quoted as saying that "The Miami offense cannot be stopped." It appears that way thus far. Florida, get ready for a changing of the guard..
Stay tuned for Edition 9
-Kraze
Edition 7 "October Nears"
The baseball season is beginning to come to a close with a mere 30 to 35 games left, and is as usual, being vastly overshadowed by the NFL and College Football. One thing is almost always for certain. The Yankees and Red Sox will be going at it come October! Minus last year, when the Yankees missed the playoffs for the first time since 1993, the Yankees and Red Sox have really reignited their once unheralded rivalry to the top of the sporting nation again.
This year appears to be no different as both teams have all but solidified their playoff berths. The Yankees have gotten the job done this year by scoring the most runs in the American League, while the Red Sox, still a heavy run producing team have given up the second least runs in the AL. Many people say, "Of course the Yankees and Red Sox are going to be playing in October, they have the most money." Though they do both have very high player salaries, they definitely have brought a great level of consistency to the game. Come October, as much as most people appear to hate these teams, it is what they really want.
Even if you live in Chicago, other than your Cubs or White Sox, you want to see the Yankees take on the Red Sox at Fenway. It is the ultimate matchup in sports. It's history and legacy are unparalleled. Both of these franchise have developed such a hatred for each other, that the entire country has jumped on the bandwagon. In my eyes it is the OSU Michigan Rivalry times 10. It is the North Carolina Duke rivalry times 100. There is no question in my mind that this rivalry encapsulates more of the country than any other rivalry even though it is 2 teams from very similar geographical areas.
What would October be without the boys in the Pinstripes flexing their muscles and the Red Sox showing off their shaggy facial hair looks?
The Yankees have not won a series since 2000, and may not win this year, but would you want the playoffs to be any other way? If your specific team that you are a die hard for is not playing in the playoffs, who would you rather see go head to head than the Yankees and the Red Sox?
So my question to you for today, "Is the Yankees vs Red Sox the best rivalry in sports, and if not what is?
Stay tuned for Edition 8 of the Blog coming soon.
-Kraze
This year appears to be no different as both teams have all but solidified their playoff berths. The Yankees have gotten the job done this year by scoring the most runs in the American League, while the Red Sox, still a heavy run producing team have given up the second least runs in the AL. Many people say, "Of course the Yankees and Red Sox are going to be playing in October, they have the most money." Though they do both have very high player salaries, they definitely have brought a great level of consistency to the game. Come October, as much as most people appear to hate these teams, it is what they really want.
Even if you live in Chicago, other than your Cubs or White Sox, you want to see the Yankees take on the Red Sox at Fenway. It is the ultimate matchup in sports. It's history and legacy are unparalleled. Both of these franchise have developed such a hatred for each other, that the entire country has jumped on the bandwagon. In my eyes it is the OSU Michigan Rivalry times 10. It is the North Carolina Duke rivalry times 100. There is no question in my mind that this rivalry encapsulates more of the country than any other rivalry even though it is 2 teams from very similar geographical areas.
What would October be without the boys in the Pinstripes flexing their muscles and the Red Sox showing off their shaggy facial hair looks?
The Yankees have not won a series since 2000, and may not win this year, but would you want the playoffs to be any other way? If your specific team that you are a die hard for is not playing in the playoffs, who would you rather see go head to head than the Yankees and the Red Sox?
So my question to you for today, "Is the Yankees vs Red Sox the best rivalry in sports, and if not what is?
Stay tuned for Edition 8 of the Blog coming soon.
-Kraze
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Edition 6 "The Life of a God"
For those of you who were unable to tune in to Monday Night Football last evening, Tom Brady and the Patriots pulled off another miraculous one point victory. In a game that the Bills appeared to have won, Tom Brady ripped the Bills heart out and stole the victory from TO and Trent Edwards. The Patriots came back from a seemingly insurmountable deficit in the last few minutes of the ball game down by 11 with 2 minutes and 6 seconds left.
Now many would say that the Bills returner, Leodis McKelvin, should of just taken a knee in the end zone and let the offense run out the clock. Maybe this is why the Bills had already lost 11 in a row to the Pats going into Monday Night?
But anyways, back to the topic at hand. Brady, who was outperformed for much of the evening by the Bills mediocre QB Trent Edwards, still escaped with a W in his debut coming off of major knee surgery. Being a Cincinnati guy, I want to now take some time to compare the Pats play caller Tom Brady with the Bengals QB Carson Palmer, and explain the life of bliss that Tom Brady has.
Tom Brady was a little known product coming out of high school and something about his game tapes caught the eye of Michigan where he was offered a scholarship. Carson Palmer was an extremely touted prep star who was no secret to any school. In the end he decided to stay in California and attend USC. Brady sat on the bench until his junior year, even spending time as the 7th QB on the depth chart, while Palmer began starting football games midway through his freshman year. Brady was a 6th round draft pick, while Palmer was a highly touted first rounder.
Brady is the winner of 3 Super Bowls and consistently makes the playoffs each and every year while Palmer has made one playoff appearance. In Palmer's lone appearance, he suffered a major knee injury on the first offensive play of the game.
This comparison goes to show you that though Palmer appeared to possess all the gifts of a Brady and more, Brady has lived the blessed career. Brady looks to be ready to go after coming back from a major knee injury. Palmer has still never been even a shell of his former self even 3 years later.
In my eyes the major difference between the two was shown this weekend. Both led key, seemingly game winning drives in the final 2 minutes of their games. The only difference; Brady won, while Palmer lost. Is it really fair to Palmer?
Also, Brady is the face of the league at this time, with all of the money and fame in the world. Not to mention a super model wife. Brady has it all and truly has the life of a god. Palmer, though a fantastic player, has it all except the winning nature. I do not blame Palmer for this, but he is definitely on the short end of the stick.
This comparison shows that maybe it is better to bloom late and not be as sought after of a draft pick. Then you may have a chance to get taken by a franchise committed to winning. Rather than blooming on time or even early as Palmer did, and getting taken very highly in the draft by a franchise that seems to be unable to shake the cloud of losing that resides over it.
In the meantime, Brady and Palmer will each continue to make the big bucks and live the dream of quarterbacking in the NFL. The only difference is, Brady will continue to win ball games and Super Bowls, while with Palmer, he will win some, and lose some.
Brady truly does have "The life of a God."
Tom Brady should of taken a page out of Derek Jeter's book though and held off on marriage..
-Kraze
Now many would say that the Bills returner, Leodis McKelvin, should of just taken a knee in the end zone and let the offense run out the clock. Maybe this is why the Bills had already lost 11 in a row to the Pats going into Monday Night?
But anyways, back to the topic at hand. Brady, who was outperformed for much of the evening by the Bills mediocre QB Trent Edwards, still escaped with a W in his debut coming off of major knee surgery. Being a Cincinnati guy, I want to now take some time to compare the Pats play caller Tom Brady with the Bengals QB Carson Palmer, and explain the life of bliss that Tom Brady has.
Tom Brady was a little known product coming out of high school and something about his game tapes caught the eye of Michigan where he was offered a scholarship. Carson Palmer was an extremely touted prep star who was no secret to any school. In the end he decided to stay in California and attend USC. Brady sat on the bench until his junior year, even spending time as the 7th QB on the depth chart, while Palmer began starting football games midway through his freshman year. Brady was a 6th round draft pick, while Palmer was a highly touted first rounder.
Brady is the winner of 3 Super Bowls and consistently makes the playoffs each and every year while Palmer has made one playoff appearance. In Palmer's lone appearance, he suffered a major knee injury on the first offensive play of the game.
This comparison goes to show you that though Palmer appeared to possess all the gifts of a Brady and more, Brady has lived the blessed career. Brady looks to be ready to go after coming back from a major knee injury. Palmer has still never been even a shell of his former self even 3 years later.
In my eyes the major difference between the two was shown this weekend. Both led key, seemingly game winning drives in the final 2 minutes of their games. The only difference; Brady won, while Palmer lost. Is it really fair to Palmer?
Also, Brady is the face of the league at this time, with all of the money and fame in the world. Not to mention a super model wife. Brady has it all and truly has the life of a god. Palmer, though a fantastic player, has it all except the winning nature. I do not blame Palmer for this, but he is definitely on the short end of the stick.
This comparison shows that maybe it is better to bloom late and not be as sought after of a draft pick. Then you may have a chance to get taken by a franchise committed to winning. Rather than blooming on time or even early as Palmer did, and getting taken very highly in the draft by a franchise that seems to be unable to shake the cloud of losing that resides over it.
In the meantime, Brady and Palmer will each continue to make the big bucks and live the dream of quarterbacking in the NFL. The only difference is, Brady will continue to win ball games and Super Bowls, while with Palmer, he will win some, and lose some.
Brady truly does have "The life of a God."
Tom Brady should of taken a page out of Derek Jeter's book though and held off on marriage..
-Kraze
Monday, September 14, 2009
Edition 5 "The Wanted Man"
The US Open concluded this evening with a very unfamiliar face atop the championship podium. The great Roger Federer was defeated by the little known, gutsy 20 year old Juan Martin Del Potro. Del Potro devastated the great champion's quest for yet another historic record of a 6th US Open title and his 16th Major Championship. Time and time again Del Potro pulled out big forehand after big forehand to defeat Federer. Del Potro seemed to have ice in his veins and showed no fear.
Federer, as always, being the great champion he is, was extremely gracious in defeat and gave credit where credit was due. Many people do not understand the complete dominance of Roger Federer and why he is the "Most Wanted Man" in sports. Federer had won 40 straight matches in Flushing Meadows entering today, which was a record for the US Open. He also has made it to 17 of the past 18 Grand Slam Finals. That means that he has made all but one of the major finals in the past 4 and a half years. Talk about a model of consistency. Has Tiger been in contention in every major he has played in lately? I seem to remember him missing the cut recently.
Unfortunately, on this day, as he went for US Open title number 6, he appeared flustered at times and had a meager 13 aces, with an astonishing 11 double faults. It is widely uncharacteristic to see Roger Federer hit even 4 or 5 double faults in a match. In addition, Roger had 58 unforced errors to his 56 winners. Today was not to be and Del Potro came with his A game.
Federer goes up against hungry opponents in each and every match he plays. No matter who this great champion plays, the person on the other end of the court realizes that by winning on the particular day he plays Federer, it will be the greatest victory of his career. For Federer, if he wins, he was supposed to win, when he loses, its an upset of cataclysmic proportions (except against Nadal on clay).
Federer seems to relish in this wanted role, but it definitely makes things more difficult for him. He always gets his opponents best match and still ends up victorious nearly every time. Hats off to Roger Federer for staying on top with the bullet on his back for nearly 6 years now. This man is far from finished and has a couple of of more great years in him.
Roger will continue to be "The Most Wanted Man" in sports, even with the tough loss in today's final.
My question for you is could you deal with being "The Most Wanted Man?"
Stay tuned for blog edition 6 coming soon.
-Kraze
Federer, as always, being the great champion he is, was extremely gracious in defeat and gave credit where credit was due. Many people do not understand the complete dominance of Roger Federer and why he is the "Most Wanted Man" in sports. Federer had won 40 straight matches in Flushing Meadows entering today, which was a record for the US Open. He also has made it to 17 of the past 18 Grand Slam Finals. That means that he has made all but one of the major finals in the past 4 and a half years. Talk about a model of consistency. Has Tiger been in contention in every major he has played in lately? I seem to remember him missing the cut recently.
Unfortunately, on this day, as he went for US Open title number 6, he appeared flustered at times and had a meager 13 aces, with an astonishing 11 double faults. It is widely uncharacteristic to see Roger Federer hit even 4 or 5 double faults in a match. In addition, Roger had 58 unforced errors to his 56 winners. Today was not to be and Del Potro came with his A game.
Federer goes up against hungry opponents in each and every match he plays. No matter who this great champion plays, the person on the other end of the court realizes that by winning on the particular day he plays Federer, it will be the greatest victory of his career. For Federer, if he wins, he was supposed to win, when he loses, its an upset of cataclysmic proportions (except against Nadal on clay).
Federer seems to relish in this wanted role, but it definitely makes things more difficult for him. He always gets his opponents best match and still ends up victorious nearly every time. Hats off to Roger Federer for staying on top with the bullet on his back for nearly 6 years now. This man is far from finished and has a couple of of more great years in him.
Roger will continue to be "The Most Wanted Man" in sports, even with the tough loss in today's final.
My question for you is could you deal with being "The Most Wanted Man?"
Stay tuned for blog edition 6 coming soon.
-Kraze
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Edition 4 "Welcome to Heartbreak"
Today I got to attend the season opener for the Cincinnati Bengals against the Denver Broncos...It was definitely a tough one to swallow.
The game as a whole was a very boring game going into halftime with a score of 3-0. The Bengals at times showed glimpses of the lethal run/pass attack that they are capable of, yet they struggled to punch the ball into the end zone or even convert on gimme field goals. One positive was the Bengals defense, which looked to demonstrate some of its hard hitting ability at times with the combination of Maualuga and Keith Rivers anchoring the linebacking corpse.
The game ultimately came down to the last couple of minutes though. Carson Palmer, who at times in his career has struggled with leading game winning drives at the end of games proved able on this day. He marched the Bengals 90 yards down the field and Cedric Benson punched in a score with 38 seconds left to give the Bengals their first lead of the day.
The Bengals rise and fall literally on the body of Carson Palmer. Palmer has the ability to be a top 5 quarterback in the league every year, but unfortunately has had many injury problems that have prevented him from rising to that elite status the past few years. Palmer on this day though, looked very confident at times, yet was unable to punch it in. When I saw Cedric Benson score for the Bengals, Carson Palmer looked relieved and glad to have escaped with an opening day W.
Then one of the most freak plays that I and many have ever witnessed occurred. The Broncos Kyle Orton, who played through some tough injuries today, threw up basically a desperation heave down the sideline. The Broncos star receiver Brandon Marshall was well covered and Leon Hall knocked the ball in the air..the ball landed in Brandon Stokley's hands, and well, you know the rest. One of the most unbelievable occurrences I have ever seen. Give Stokley some credit for having the mindset to continue to run the clock down before crossing into the endzone.
With this play unfortunately, may have went Carson Palmer's confidence, and maybe even a shot at a playoff birth. Now obviously the Bengals year is not over from one game, but the team and their fans were heartbroken leaving this one. Fans upon leaving Paul Brown all were muttering under their breath,"Only in Cincinnati."
Well Cincinnati goes home heartbroken on this Sunday afternoon. Hopefully next week the team can go into Cheeseheadville and restore some pride in the Who Dey Nation heading into the showdown with the rival Steelers.
Be on the lookout for a US Open recap tomorrow following the Men's and Women's Final.
-Kraze
The game as a whole was a very boring game going into halftime with a score of 3-0. The Bengals at times showed glimpses of the lethal run/pass attack that they are capable of, yet they struggled to punch the ball into the end zone or even convert on gimme field goals. One positive was the Bengals defense, which looked to demonstrate some of its hard hitting ability at times with the combination of Maualuga and Keith Rivers anchoring the linebacking corpse.
The game ultimately came down to the last couple of minutes though. Carson Palmer, who at times in his career has struggled with leading game winning drives at the end of games proved able on this day. He marched the Bengals 90 yards down the field and Cedric Benson punched in a score with 38 seconds left to give the Bengals their first lead of the day.
The Bengals rise and fall literally on the body of Carson Palmer. Palmer has the ability to be a top 5 quarterback in the league every year, but unfortunately has had many injury problems that have prevented him from rising to that elite status the past few years. Palmer on this day though, looked very confident at times, yet was unable to punch it in. When I saw Cedric Benson score for the Bengals, Carson Palmer looked relieved and glad to have escaped with an opening day W.
Then one of the most freak plays that I and many have ever witnessed occurred. The Broncos Kyle Orton, who played through some tough injuries today, threw up basically a desperation heave down the sideline. The Broncos star receiver Brandon Marshall was well covered and Leon Hall knocked the ball in the air..the ball landed in Brandon Stokley's hands, and well, you know the rest. One of the most unbelievable occurrences I have ever seen. Give Stokley some credit for having the mindset to continue to run the clock down before crossing into the endzone.
With this play unfortunately, may have went Carson Palmer's confidence, and maybe even a shot at a playoff birth. Now obviously the Bengals year is not over from one game, but the team and their fans were heartbroken leaving this one. Fans upon leaving Paul Brown all were muttering under their breath,"Only in Cincinnati."
Well Cincinnati goes home heartbroken on this Sunday afternoon. Hopefully next week the team can go into Cheeseheadville and restore some pride in the Who Dey Nation heading into the showdown with the rival Steelers.
Be on the lookout for a US Open recap tomorrow following the Men's and Women's Final.
-Kraze
Edition 3 "The US Open gets Intense"
Topic one for today has to do with the US Tennis Open. As always, there is great tennis being played in Flushing Meadows. And as always, with high level tennis, comes intense matches and tempers flaring. For those of you who were unable to watch at all last night, Serena Williams was outplayed and outclassed last evening by a better, fitter, Kim Clijsters.
Clijsters is definitely a feel good story. After a 2 year hiatus due to having a child, Clijsters is back in full force. The former number 1 player in the world enters her first grand slam final in multiple years and looks determined to take the title. Clijsters was always fun to watch. She has always exhibited outstanding athleticism and a knack for pulling out key points in close matches. Last night was no different as she defeated the heavily favored Serena Williams and put herself in position to win her second US Open Title (first since 2005).
But back to the real topic at hand. What was going through Serena Williams head last night? Anyone who has ever played competitive tennis understands how frustrating the game can be at times. Serena has been in the limelight for over a decade though and she should know better than exploding on national television. This just adds to the Williams aura of arrogance, and now makes people think that she is a sore loser. Serena is a phenomenal player and has been blessed with great abilities. There is no excuse ever to explode like that at any time during a match. I definitely wish Serena the best, but hopefully she never has an explosion like that again during her career. Many of her fans were very hurt by her actions last evening and she will need to be on her best behavior to regain their loyalty.
In other US Open news, Rafael Nadal was defeated handily by Juan Del Potro in straight sets. Nadal admitted that his abdominal injury really might have tampered with his play today. Nadal may be the greatest counter puncher of our generation. He was able to rise to the top and defeat the all time record holder for Grand Slam Titles, Roger Federer, on his best service at Wimbledon. But the style Nadal plays definitely takes a toll on a mans body and it appears that he is already beginning to break down. Though Nadal has many years left, he may need to take another extended time off before his rise to the top is able to occur. The way that Federer and young guns Del Potro, Djokovic, and Andy Murray are playing, it will be very difficult for Nadal ever to rise to the number one ranking any time in the near future.
Look for a Roger Federer vs Juan Del Potro Final on Monday after Federer defeats Djokovic. Federer is at the top of his game and will be looking to add to his already record Grand Slam Title Total. Federer will prove too much for Del Potro and his experience will prove to be a great asset as he wins in straight sets.
Look for a blog on the Bengals Game today coming very soon.
-Kraze
Clijsters is definitely a feel good story. After a 2 year hiatus due to having a child, Clijsters is back in full force. The former number 1 player in the world enters her first grand slam final in multiple years and looks determined to take the title. Clijsters was always fun to watch. She has always exhibited outstanding athleticism and a knack for pulling out key points in close matches. Last night was no different as she defeated the heavily favored Serena Williams and put herself in position to win her second US Open Title (first since 2005).
But back to the real topic at hand. What was going through Serena Williams head last night? Anyone who has ever played competitive tennis understands how frustrating the game can be at times. Serena has been in the limelight for over a decade though and she should know better than exploding on national television. This just adds to the Williams aura of arrogance, and now makes people think that she is a sore loser. Serena is a phenomenal player and has been blessed with great abilities. There is no excuse ever to explode like that at any time during a match. I definitely wish Serena the best, but hopefully she never has an explosion like that again during her career. Many of her fans were very hurt by her actions last evening and she will need to be on her best behavior to regain their loyalty.
In other US Open news, Rafael Nadal was defeated handily by Juan Del Potro in straight sets. Nadal admitted that his abdominal injury really might have tampered with his play today. Nadal may be the greatest counter puncher of our generation. He was able to rise to the top and defeat the all time record holder for Grand Slam Titles, Roger Federer, on his best service at Wimbledon. But the style Nadal plays definitely takes a toll on a mans body and it appears that he is already beginning to break down. Though Nadal has many years left, he may need to take another extended time off before his rise to the top is able to occur. The way that Federer and young guns Del Potro, Djokovic, and Andy Murray are playing, it will be very difficult for Nadal ever to rise to the number one ranking any time in the near future.
Look for a Roger Federer vs Juan Del Potro Final on Monday after Federer defeats Djokovic. Federer is at the top of his game and will be looking to add to his already record Grand Slam Title Total. Federer will prove too much for Del Potro and his experience will prove to be a great asset as he wins in straight sets.
Look for a blog on the Bengals Game today coming very soon.
-Kraze
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Day 2 "Big Name College Coaches"
Welcome back for edition 2 of Kraze Sports! I hope you all enjoyed edition one. It comes as no surprise what the topic of conversation is today. It is the second Saturday in September and that can only mean one thing. Get ready for Big Time College Football! Though there are a good few solid games today, the big one without a doubt is the game between the two storied programs of USC and The Ohio State University.
This battle matches up two programs who need no introductions and that each have immense followings. Many have already stated that they feel this game will be a blowout. For those of you who do not remember, USC pounded the Buckeyes at the Coliseum 35-3 just one year ago.
Since Jim Tressel has taken the helm of the Buckeyes he has been extremely successful but has struggled in the big game as of late. Tressel has won 5 big Ten Titles and a BCS National title. His all time record is 8-7 vs top ten opponents which is very strong, yet he has lost 5 straight. These 5 games have really tarnished and defined his storied tenure with the Buckeyes even though he has been extremely successful consistently being at the top of the Big Ten and having appeared in 3 BCS Title Games with one title.
Pete Carroll is no stranger to the big game himself having won 2 BCS National Titles and with an overall record of 6-1 in BCS Bowl Games. Carroll has an overall 89-15 record with the Trojans and has consistently produced a handful to 2 handfuls of NFL players each and every year.
So my question for you today is when did these College Coaches become the biggest game in town? Having lived in Ohio, it is common knowledge that Jim Tressel is the most famous football coach in the state. He is more well known than a Marvin Lewis who has coached the Bengals for the past 7 years or whoever the Browns bring in to mend the wounds every few years. Ohio is definitely a big time football state consistently producing great Division 1 players every year from some great high school programs. But when did Tressel and Ohio State become the biggest thing on the northside of the Ohio River? Tressel easily fills a stadium that seats over a hundred thousand people whether they are playing against little known Troy or against a USC. The Bengals are struggling to fill a 65,000 seat stadium for a home opener against the Denver Broncos. Tressel makes millions of dollars a year and is treated as the big time football coach in Ohio. Tressel and the Buckeyes easily have a much larger fan following than both the Bengals or Browns consistently every year and are the big game in town.
With Pete Carroll it is much of the same story. The beautiful Rose Bowl Stadium is consistently filled to capacity without question no matter who they play. Not to mention Carroll is raking in a modest 4.4 million dollars a year in salary to coach a college football team.
So the question I pose to you today is when did these college football coaches become the biggest names in their state or region?
Prediction: Matt Barkley, though an extremely talented freshman, struggles in his first appearance under the bright lights. Though Carroll has the offense rely heavily on the run, in some key 3rd down situations, Barkley is forced to pass and throws some unwarranted interceptions. USC is able to recover though due to their great running game and always star studded defense. USC wins a much tougher contest than most are expecting 28 to 21 in the Horseshoe this evening.
Stay tuned for tomorrow when I blog on the Bengals opener and possibly some of the US Open.
-Kraze
Friday, September 11, 2009
Day 1 of Kraze Sports "Basketball Hall of Fame Inductions"
Welcome to my blog everyone. I have always wanted to be able to share my opinions on events happening in the sports stratosphere and now I have found a very accessible way to accomplish this.
For those of you that do not know, my name is Josh Kramer. I am currently entering my 3rd year as an Accounting/Finance Major at the University of Cincinnati. Sports have always been a passion of mine from day 1. I live, eat, and breathe sports. I at times put athletes on a pedestal and am fascinated by their abilities. Sports never get old for me and probably never will. I am the guy who when he gets the newspaper immediately turns to the Sports Section and completely disregards all the other sections. I am the guy who when he gets on the internet, accesses ESPN.com first no matter what the situation. When I turn on the television, one of the many ESPN's is the first channel that I go to. So this is extremely exciting for me and I hope you enjoy my posts.
Today, I wanted to talk about the big news of the day. Five new people will be entering the prestigious Basketball Hall of Fame. Oh and what a class it is. There is a definite wow factor with this year's class and rightfully so.
The greatest player of our generation and possibly all time is entering the Hall. As you all know this is Michael Jeffrey Jordan. Arguably the greatest all around player of all time. He had an unmatched will and desire to win that no other athlete it seems has ever possessed. Jordan also was commonly known as one of the most fierce competitors in the world. It is rumored that he once played the quintessential role player Steve Kerr one on one in the mid 90's and punched him in the agony of giving up a few points to the much lesser player. Talk about a competitive guy.
After Jordan, the greatest passer of our generation also had his name called today. The little big man and all time assists leader John Stockton. Stockton out of what was once a little known college called Gonzaga, wowed fans across the country for nearly 2 decades with his amazing passing ability, his consistent winning ways, and his short shorts. Stockton truly was and is an outstanding ambassador of the sport.
The other player being inducted this year is known as the "Admiral." If you did not already know, the "Admiral" is David Robinson. David Robinson is known as the Admiral due to his time spent fulfilling his obligation to serve in the Navy. Robinson was the star center for the San Antonio Spurs for over 15 years. David was a phenomenal specimen with bulging muscles and uncanny athletic ability. David was one of the best post players of all time and is much deserving of a Hall of Fame Induction.
The last two people of this five person class are coaches Jerry Sloan and Vivian Stringer. Sloan is the rock of consistency as he has led the Jazz to 19 winning seasons in his 20 years with the team. If it wasn't for another man in this year's class (Jordan), he would very easily have a couple of NBA Championships as well. Stringer is a truly amazing women who has been coaching college basketball since the days Richard Nixon led our wonderful country. With 825 wins, there are no ifs, ands, or buts about her much deserving induction.
From my point of view this is a great class that embodies some of the best elements of the great game of basketball. Though 4 of the inductees are vastly overshadowed by the amazing Air Jordan, they are still all 4 very much deserving and should be proud of their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the sport.
I am signing off for today, but be ready for some possible looks into College Football and the NFL within the next couple of days.
-Kraze
For those of you that do not know, my name is Josh Kramer. I am currently entering my 3rd year as an Accounting/Finance Major at the University of Cincinnati. Sports have always been a passion of mine from day 1. I live, eat, and breathe sports. I at times put athletes on a pedestal and am fascinated by their abilities. Sports never get old for me and probably never will. I am the guy who when he gets the newspaper immediately turns to the Sports Section and completely disregards all the other sections. I am the guy who when he gets on the internet, accesses ESPN.com first no matter what the situation. When I turn on the television, one of the many ESPN's is the first channel that I go to. So this is extremely exciting for me and I hope you enjoy my posts.
Today, I wanted to talk about the big news of the day. Five new people will be entering the prestigious Basketball Hall of Fame. Oh and what a class it is. There is a definite wow factor with this year's class and rightfully so.
The greatest player of our generation and possibly all time is entering the Hall. As you all know this is Michael Jeffrey Jordan. Arguably the greatest all around player of all time. He had an unmatched will and desire to win that no other athlete it seems has ever possessed. Jordan also was commonly known as one of the most fierce competitors in the world. It is rumored that he once played the quintessential role player Steve Kerr one on one in the mid 90's and punched him in the agony of giving up a few points to the much lesser player. Talk about a competitive guy.
After Jordan, the greatest passer of our generation also had his name called today. The little big man and all time assists leader John Stockton. Stockton out of what was once a little known college called Gonzaga, wowed fans across the country for nearly 2 decades with his amazing passing ability, his consistent winning ways, and his short shorts. Stockton truly was and is an outstanding ambassador of the sport.
The other player being inducted this year is known as the "Admiral." If you did not already know, the "Admiral" is David Robinson. David Robinson is known as the Admiral due to his time spent fulfilling his obligation to serve in the Navy. Robinson was the star center for the San Antonio Spurs for over 15 years. David was a phenomenal specimen with bulging muscles and uncanny athletic ability. David was one of the best post players of all time and is much deserving of a Hall of Fame Induction.
The last two people of this five person class are coaches Jerry Sloan and Vivian Stringer. Sloan is the rock of consistency as he has led the Jazz to 19 winning seasons in his 20 years with the team. If it wasn't for another man in this year's class (Jordan), he would very easily have a couple of NBA Championships as well. Stringer is a truly amazing women who has been coaching college basketball since the days Richard Nixon led our wonderful country. With 825 wins, there are no ifs, ands, or buts about her much deserving induction.
From my point of view this is a great class that embodies some of the best elements of the great game of basketball. Though 4 of the inductees are vastly overshadowed by the amazing Air Jordan, they are still all 4 very much deserving and should be proud of their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the sport.
I am signing off for today, but be ready for some possible looks into College Football and the NFL within the next couple of days.
-Kraze
The Kraze
Coming Soon: Josh Kramer's comments about sports. Unique perspective. Informed insight. The Kraze.
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