Here's my latest for
Hiram Bithorn Stadium
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Mike
senior staff writer/RisingApple
Saturday, February 07, 2015
Caribbean Series 2015: The Final Four; Venezuela Earns Top Seed
Here's my latest for
The Final Four:
Venezuela
Mexico
Dominican Republic
Cuba
Caribbean Series Championship Game
February 8th
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Friday, February 06, 2015
The Hoops of Flatbush: Knicks vs. Nets - III
From the desks of:
DUTCH PANTS CAN'T JUMP and THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH
BIG CITY SHOWDOWN - III
Nets lead series 2-0
I - Nets 110; Knicks 99
II - Nets 98; Knicks 93
FRIDAY
New York Knicks
vs.
Brooklyn Nets
from
BARCLAYS CENTER
Flatbush Avenue at Atlantic Avenue
Phil Jackson's work has only just begun. He hasn't even experienced his first draft as the head Knick in charge yet. To date, all he's done is rid the roster of some ill fitting players.
That's why I do not buy Phil Jackson's mea culpa one bit.
Phil Jackson didn't need to take this job, and is signed for a lot of money, which invariably means he's not going anywhere. Therefore, saying the present state of the Knicks is his fault, at the most is a smoke screen, and at the very least, is a non issue, and certainly no skin off his hide.
I think he's just deflecting heat away from his head coach and faltering team.
This is a man who loves playing mind games. They don't call him the Zen Master for nothing. He once had Michael Jordan's Bulls sit silently in a dark room for 2 hours.
The merits of the triangle system are still up for debate. There's something to it, that has nothing to do with the overwhelming brilliance of Michael Jordan. Shaq says the system unequivocally works, and that it's the Knicks players who fail to understand it. If Shaq can grasp, and execute Phil Jackson's system, that's good enough for me.
Should the Knicks abandon Phil Jackson's geometry, and let Coach Fisher adapt a style according the strengths of the personnel?
Well, if Phil Jackson does his job, the personnel should surely change by November.
Brooklyn Nets: Is Billy King's Finger On The Button?
There's hope for this team after all.
Right?
That's what a pair of victories against the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Atlantic Division leading Toronto Raptors says. Their previous effort in regulation time against the Raptors on Jan. 30th also did not go unnoticed.
If you want to call Brooklyn's recent effort a turnaround, consider that it came with Jarrett Jack, Alan Anderson, and Mason Plumlee leading the way.
That said, the upcoming trade deadline is fast becoming the most curious moment since the Nets inaugural opening night in Brooklyn.
Should Billy King blow this team up?
You're damn right he should. The best days of this highly paid group are behind them, or so I think. The Nets tried with the trio of Joe Johnson, Deron Williams, and Brook Lopez, and failed.
I do not necessarily believe that Billy King deserves to be the one who gets to push the button though. However, pushing the button is nevertheless warranted.
Joe Johnson is movable because he is perhaps the most dependable player of the group. Despite an onerous contract, he's a respected, and known commodity.
The same can not be said of Brook Lopez and Deron Williams, whom can't seem to shake nagging injuries. If teams want any of these three, Billy King should negotiate a deal.
But what if the team really is turning a corner under Coach Hollins?
At this present time, I do not believe they are.
Mike
Thursday, February 05, 2015
Caribbean Series 2015: Day Three Recap
Here's my latest for
Hiram Bithorn Stadium
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Wednesday, February 04, 2015
Caribbean Series 2015: Day Two Recap
Here's my latest for
Hiram Bithorn Stadium
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Recently Hosted Podcasts/Rising Apple Report
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Tuesday, February 03, 2015
N.Y. Mets: The Upcoming Season Is No Joking Matter
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
NEW YORK METS: This is the time of year when Sandy Alderson rehearses his comedy routine in preparation for his drive down I-95.
Pardon me for my confusion, but didn't Sandy Alderson (internally) aspire to win 90 games last year, and now, in a season when it's believed the Mets can finally, realistically contend for a Wild Card, Alderson only set his sights on winning 89 games?
This is why the relationship between club and fan continues to have more problems than a math book.
Why say anything at all?
We're still not seeing eye to eye, are we?
Had the club been listening, they would have heard the growing appreciation for this team's young talent. Had they been paying attention, they would have picked up on the growing optimism circulating throughout the blogosphere. And had they been in touch, they would have sensed the growing grassroots buzz regarding this team's present and future fortunes.
His best play was to just shut up, have the team take the field, and let the chips fall where they may.
But, aspiring for 89 victories isn't necessarily my problem. He was merely saying the team can improve by 10 games. It's coupon math, but otherwise, fine.
However, many things the general manager says do fly in the face of a tired audience, and this is the time of year when he starts to uncork his best one liners.
He got an early start this winter. Instead of projecting outward confidence in Wilmer Flores, Sandy Alderson quite literally mocks the situation at shortstop, by invoking Cal Ripken? By saying fans have been waiting all winter for him to make an announcement regarding shortstop...?
It's clear then, Sandy Alderson is fine tuning his annual Spring Training comedy routine.
That would be a shame, because there's more fan optimism heading into this upcoming season than any other during Alderson's regime. There should be no room in the 2015 season for that; not anymore.
Therefore, if he insists on payroll being commensurate with attendance, then I suggest he stop poking the bear!
The work being conducted by Paul DePodesta has not gone unnoticed, nor unappreciated by the fan base. We're starting to truly enjoy the fruits of his labor, and we understand the long term benefits of his work to date.
The major league club, however, still seems to be the butt of jokes - many times, Alderson's. Having to interpret his doublespeak is already enough to deal with.
Therefore, I have but one warning to shoot across Sandy Alderson's bumper, prior to him getting behind the wheel of his rental on his way to Spring Training. Please spare us the jokes and stay off Twitter on your drive down I-95.
That's officially a tired act.
That said, if you want to be a contender, start acting like a contender.
Mike
Settle down, settle down. Our next comic has a degree from Harvard,
but sometimes he's not too bright.
NEW YORK METS: This is the time of year when Sandy Alderson rehearses his comedy routine in preparation for his drive down I-95.
Pardon me for my confusion, but didn't Sandy Alderson (internally) aspire to win 90 games last year, and now, in a season when it's believed the Mets can finally, realistically contend for a Wild Card, Alderson only set his sights on winning 89 games?
This is why the relationship between club and fan continues to have more problems than a math book.
Why say anything at all?
We're still not seeing eye to eye, are we?
Had the club been listening, they would have heard the growing appreciation for this team's young talent. Had they been paying attention, they would have picked up on the growing optimism circulating throughout the blogosphere. And had they been in touch, they would have sensed the growing grassroots buzz regarding this team's present and future fortunes.
His best play was to just shut up, have the team take the field, and let the chips fall where they may.
But, aspiring for 89 victories isn't necessarily my problem. He was merely saying the team can improve by 10 games. It's coupon math, but otherwise, fine.
However, many things the general manager says do fly in the face of a tired audience, and this is the time of year when he starts to uncork his best one liners.
He got an early start this winter. Instead of projecting outward confidence in Wilmer Flores, Sandy Alderson quite literally mocks the situation at shortstop, by invoking Cal Ripken? By saying fans have been waiting all winter for him to make an announcement regarding shortstop...?
It's clear then, Sandy Alderson is fine tuning his annual Spring Training comedy routine.
That would be a shame, because there's more fan optimism heading into this upcoming season than any other during Alderson's regime. There should be no room in the 2015 season for that; not anymore.
Therefore, if he insists on payroll being commensurate with attendance, then I suggest he stop poking the bear!
The work being conducted by Paul DePodesta has not gone unnoticed, nor unappreciated by the fan base. We're starting to truly enjoy the fruits of his labor, and we understand the long term benefits of his work to date.
The major league club, however, still seems to be the butt of jokes - many times, Alderson's. Having to interpret his doublespeak is already enough to deal with.
Therefore, I have but one warning to shoot across Sandy Alderson's bumper, prior to him getting behind the wheel of his rental on his way to Spring Training. Please spare us the jokes and stay off Twitter on your drive down I-95.
That's officially a tired act.
That said, if you want to be a contender, start acting like a contender.
Mike
Monday, February 02, 2015
Today For Rising Apple - Beisbol: Caribbean Series 2015 is Underway
Here's my latest for
From Hiram Bithorn Stadium,
in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Mike
pictures are my own
N.Y. Islanders: Feeling Loss of Okposo
From the desk of: BROOKLYN'S FOSTER HOCKEY CLUB
New York Islanders: Losing Kyle Okposo Surely Hurts, But Their Penalty Kill Has Been Brutal.
The tab is already growing.
The Islanders still maintain a one point advantage over the Pens for 1st place in the Metro Division, which technically still makes them #2 in the conference, but Long Island's 65 points now ranks them 4th behind Tampa, Montreal, and Detroit.
The Isles are 1-2 since losing Kyle Okposo. After defeating the Rangers, they lost a pair of big conference games by a combined 9-3 margin to the Bruins and Red Wings.
Chad Johnson started in net against Detroit. He only faced 19 shots, but only made 15 saves. It's hard to place much, if any blame on him, particularly when the penalty kill has been playing so poorly - as bad, in fact, as they've been all season.
The Isles entered the new year with a 75% PK.
Their penalty kill was just (19/29) 66% in January. They're only 50% (4/8) since Okposo went down.
Against the Bruins, you just have to credit Tuukka Rask. He faced 43 shots and made 41 saves. The Bruins got off 38 shots. But after the Isles tied the game in the 2nd period at two, Boston finished off the Isles with 3 unanswered goals - despite getting out-shot 14-6 by the Isles in the 3rd period.
Next up - games against the Panthers and Flyers, then a rematch against the Bruins.
Mike
New York Islanders: Losing Kyle Okposo Surely Hurts, But Their Penalty Kill Has Been Brutal.
The tab is already growing.
The Islanders still maintain a one point advantage over the Pens for 1st place in the Metro Division, which technically still makes them #2 in the conference, but Long Island's 65 points now ranks them 4th behind Tampa, Montreal, and Detroit.
The Isles are 1-2 since losing Kyle Okposo. After defeating the Rangers, they lost a pair of big conference games by a combined 9-3 margin to the Bruins and Red Wings.
Chad Johnson started in net against Detroit. He only faced 19 shots, but only made 15 saves. It's hard to place much, if any blame on him, particularly when the penalty kill has been playing so poorly - as bad, in fact, as they've been all season.
The Isles entered the new year with a 75% PK.
- October - 22/33; 67%
- November - 31/38; 82%
- December - 28/37; 76%
Their penalty kill was just (19/29) 66% in January. They're only 50% (4/8) since Okposo went down.
Against the Bruins, you just have to credit Tuukka Rask. He faced 43 shots and made 41 saves. The Bruins got off 38 shots. But after the Isles tied the game in the 2nd period at two, Boston finished off the Isles with 3 unanswered goals - despite getting out-shot 14-6 by the Isles in the 3rd period.
Next up - games against the Panthers and Flyers, then a rematch against the Bruins.
Mike
Sunday, February 01, 2015
N.Y. Rangers: Killjoy Was Here
From the desk of: RAISE GRESCH WITH THE GREATS
NEW YORK RANGERS: Eye of the (Paper) Tiger; Rising Up to the Challenge of Lesser Rivals.
...Stop the music.
Was Saturday's 4-1 victory a matter of Coach Vigneault's line shake-up, or are the Carolina Hurricanes that bad? I'll be kind and say somewhere in the middle lies the truth.
When teams allow the Rangers to skate around, they win. That's why they shouldn't go patting themselves on the back - not on the heels of a pair of losses to the Islanders and Canadiens. Those teams got physical, and the Rangers fell short; very short.
#trending?
When this team gets close to being on the verge of elite, they fall flat, like they did upon returning from the west coast and getting pounded by the Islanders and Bruins.
They followed that with a three game winning streak, which included a 5-2 victory over the Pens. However, that came during a stretch during which the Pens lost to the Devils and Islanders as well. In other words, PITT was primed to be beaten. As I write this, the Pens are losing again to the Predators.
I digress.
A victory over the last place Hurricanes was expected.
The next three games are against the Panthers, Bruins, and Predators.
Don't underestimate the Panthers. For 50-minutes, they're a good team. They're just horrible finishers, and get killed in extra innings. Otherwise, if the Rangers aren't careful...., you know.
Playing the Bruins again, and facing the Predators needs no back story. So, we'll revisit this conversation on the night of Feb 7th.
Chris Kreider made more noise in January than he has all season. He scored his 11th goal of the season, during a rather dominant performance against the Canes (so take that with a grain of salt). It was his 3rd goal in the last 6 games, and his 5th goal over 12 games in January. He only scored 2 goals in each of the first three months of the season.
He scored 8 points in January, also the most of any month so far this season. But the schedule belie his numbers. During the month, Kreider scored against the Sabres, Sharks, Blue Jackets, Senators, and the Canes. He did not score against the Ducks, Kings, Bruins, Penguins, Habs, or in two games against the Isles.
In Thursday night's game against the Canadiens, Kreider and P.K. Suppan harassed each other throughout the night. Suppan never dropped his gloves though. His goading didn't work as both earned plenty of time in the box.
Tanner Glass took on Brandon Prust in the 1st period, and earned a decision on points.
I recently said Tanner's penalty minutes are justified, obviously, where as Chris Kreider's are not. The two lead the team in minutes served, however, Glass's 56:00 minutes are far less than Kreider's 79:00 minutes in the box. Kreider gets an honest pass against Suppan, but his minutes remain unnecessarily high.
He started the season with 38:00 PM in October, but, 17 of those came in one game against Columbus. That leaves a balance of 21:00 minutes for October. In November he dropped down to 10:00 minutes, then down to 8:00 in December. He finished January with 23:00 minutes served.
He can't use his size and speed, or score, if he's consistently sitting in the box.
Mike
NEW YORK RANGERS: Eye of the (Paper) Tiger; Rising Up to the Challenge of Lesser Rivals.
...Stop the music.
Was Saturday's 4-1 victory a matter of Coach Vigneault's line shake-up, or are the Carolina Hurricanes that bad? I'll be kind and say somewhere in the middle lies the truth.
When teams allow the Rangers to skate around, they win. That's why they shouldn't go patting themselves on the back - not on the heels of a pair of losses to the Islanders and Canadiens. Those teams got physical, and the Rangers fell short; very short.
#trending?
When this team gets close to being on the verge of elite, they fall flat, like they did upon returning from the west coast and getting pounded by the Islanders and Bruins.
They followed that with a three game winning streak, which included a 5-2 victory over the Pens. However, that came during a stretch during which the Pens lost to the Devils and Islanders as well. In other words, PITT was primed to be beaten. As I write this, the Pens are losing again to the Predators.
I digress.
A victory over the last place Hurricanes was expected.
The next three games are against the Panthers, Bruins, and Predators.
Don't underestimate the Panthers. For 50-minutes, they're a good team. They're just horrible finishers, and get killed in extra innings. Otherwise, if the Rangers aren't careful...., you know.
Playing the Bruins again, and facing the Predators needs no back story. So, we'll revisit this conversation on the night of Feb 7th.
Who's Fooling Who?
Chris Kreider made more noise in January than he has all season. He scored his 11th goal of the season, during a rather dominant performance against the Canes (so take that with a grain of salt). It was his 3rd goal in the last 6 games, and his 5th goal over 12 games in January. He only scored 2 goals in each of the first three months of the season.
He scored 8 points in January, also the most of any month so far this season. But the schedule belie his numbers. During the month, Kreider scored against the Sabres, Sharks, Blue Jackets, Senators, and the Canes. He did not score against the Ducks, Kings, Bruins, Penguins, Habs, or in two games against the Isles.
Still in the Closet
In Thursday night's game against the Canadiens, Kreider and P.K. Suppan harassed each other throughout the night. Suppan never dropped his gloves though. His goading didn't work as both earned plenty of time in the box.
Tanner Glass took on Brandon Prust in the 1st period, and earned a decision on points.
I recently said Tanner's penalty minutes are justified, obviously, where as Chris Kreider's are not. The two lead the team in minutes served, however, Glass's 56:00 minutes are far less than Kreider's 79:00 minutes in the box. Kreider gets an honest pass against Suppan, but his minutes remain unnecessarily high.
He started the season with 38:00 PM in October, but, 17 of those came in one game against Columbus. That leaves a balance of 21:00 minutes for October. In November he dropped down to 10:00 minutes, then down to 8:00 in December. He finished January with 23:00 minutes served.
He can't use his size and speed, or score, if he's consistently sitting in the box.
Mike
Saturday, January 31, 2015
PIGSKIN 2014: SUPER BOWL XLIX
PIGSKIN
SUPER BOWL
SUNDAY
Regular Season Results:
On Vacation!
Scoreboard:
Final Regular Season Record: 107-100-5
Wild Card Record: 0-4
Divisional Round: 2-2
Championship Round: 1-1
Overall Record: 110-107-5
BAGELS in the Basket: -2
Got my mind on my Bagels and my Bagels on my mind: Let's roll dough... I'm a pair of Bagels in the hole; every pun intended. So the only thing I can do is double down in the hopes of breaking even with the local baker. Ha! Get it?
PROP THIS! POST GAME
- I'll have two Bagels on the coin toss please = TAILS! WIN +2
- One Bagel says the Seahawks kick the first field goal. WIN +1
- One Bagel says the Patriots score the first touchdown. WIN +1
- I'm rolling 5 Bagels(!) on the chance Marshawn Lynch scores a touchdown, and grabs his junk. DIDN'T SEE IT. DAMN! -5
- The O/U is set (48); two Bagels says Over. WIN +2
Including 2 Bagels on the game itself, that makes a baker's dozen into the oven.
Patriots 28; Seahawks 24 WIN +2
I finished +1 for the season. Pass the cream cheese and jelly please!
Patriots 28; Seahawks 24 WIN +2
I finished +1 for the season. Pass the cream cheese and jelly please!
PRE-GAME
- 1st and Ten: With a victory Seattle would be the first team to repeat since Tom Brady and the Patriots won back to back Lombardi trophies; XXXVIII and XXXIX, or, Tom Brady would tie Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw for most QB Super Bowl victories with four.
- 2nd and Long: Russell Wilson is going for his second SB victory in just his third season in the league. Notable two timing QB's: Eli Manning, Jim Plunkett, Bart Star, Roger Staubach, John Elway, Ben Roethlisberger, (honorable mention = Bob Griese).
- No Gain: I get what Marshawn Lynch has been up to. I have no problem whatsoever with his media boycott, or with the way he's handled himself. His figurative silence, has made his position crystal clear. I can't say the same for Richard Sherman. His act; literally trying to outsmart, and belittle the media; is getting real old, real fast. I wish he'd take a cue from Lynch, and just shut up. I congratulate him on the eminent birth of his child though. I'd even respect his decision to skip the game to attend the birth. That's what dads do, and that's cool with me. His act, however, is not. He definitely jumped the shark during that 49ers game against Crabtree. He was pleasantly more anonymous prior to that.
- PUNT! Roger Goodell's tenure has been an ongoing punchline. He's more practiced at cover-ups, than understanding a cover-two. Soliciting a physicist, then having some inconsequential equipment handler become Scotland Yard's number one suspect in DeflateGate is far out man. Can someone book Goodell a room in a Holiday Inn please? If the league is so insistent on pursuing a deflated balls controversy, they should call Woody Allen.
And Now, a Word from the Sponsor: Me
Thank you all for tuning in to my PIGSKIN PICKS, and for riding my TROLLEY on Football Sundays. I hope I provided at least a small measure of entertainment in return for your time this season.
Guten Apetit!
It's the Super Bowl; I'm going traditional.
Fruits; nuts; cheese/crackers; shrimp.
A towering salsa/chips inferno; stuffed mushrooms; homemade beer battered/lemon zest onion rings; my special pickled green tomatoes; salads.
Wings! A) mix of hot sauce, teriyaki sauce, BBQ sauce.
Wings! B) garlic, parmesan cheese.
Grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce; grilled corn on the cob finished with paprika and roasted garlic butter; grilled zucchini, eggplant, and peppers.
Coronas; German heffe-weizen; wine (including my own); sodas; iced tea; juices and spirits.
Locals; no one drives; all in walking distance; helps work off 11-hours of merriment and gluttony.
What's on your Super Sunday menu?
Snoring Me to Tears
I've watched every Super Bowl since 1977; that makes 37 of 48 games. Through the years and decades, there have been more than just a few yawn inspiring games. This is my list:
XII - Cowboys def. Broncos
XX- Bears def. Patriots
XXII - Redskins def. Broncos
XXIV - 49ers def. Broncos
XXVII - Cowboys def. Bills
XXVIII - Cowboys def. Bills
XXIX - 49ers def. Chargers
XXXV - Ravens def. Giants
XXXVII - Buccaneers def. Raiders
XLVIII - Seahawks def. Broncos
Time Well Spent
Of course, I'm a Giants fan. But, you can not deny that each of their four Super Bowl victories were thrilling. Here's my list of most entertaining Super Bowls:
XIII - Steelers def. Cowboys
XIV - Steelers def. Rams
XV - Raiders def. Eagles
XVI - 49ers def. Bengals
XXI - Giants def. Broncos
XXIII - 49ers def. Bengals
XXV - Giants def. Bills
XXXIV - Rams def. Titans
XXXVI - Patriots def. Rams
XXXVIII - Patriots def. Panthers
XLII - Giants def. Patriots
XLIII - Steelers def. Cardinals
XLVI - Giants def. Patriots
XLVII - Ravens def. 49ers
Locals; no one drives; all in walking distance; helps work off 11-hours of merriment and gluttony.
What's on your Super Sunday menu?
Snoring Me to Tears
I've watched every Super Bowl since 1977; that makes 37 of 48 games. Through the years and decades, there have been more than just a few yawn inspiring games. This is my list:
XII - Cowboys def. Broncos
XX- Bears def. Patriots
XXII - Redskins def. Broncos
XXIV - 49ers def. Broncos
XXVII - Cowboys def. Bills
XXVIII - Cowboys def. Bills
XXIX - 49ers def. Chargers
XXXV - Ravens def. Giants
XXXVII - Buccaneers def. Raiders
XLVIII - Seahawks def. Broncos
Time Well Spent
Of course, I'm a Giants fan. But, you can not deny that each of their four Super Bowl victories were thrilling. Here's my list of most entertaining Super Bowls:
XIII - Steelers def. Cowboys
XIV - Steelers def. Rams
XV - Raiders def. Eagles
XVI - 49ers def. Bengals
XXI - Giants def. Broncos
XXIII - 49ers def. Bengals
XXV - Giants def. Bills
XXXIV - Rams def. Titans
XXXVI - Patriots def. Rams
XXXVIII - Patriots def. Panthers
XLII - Giants def. Patriots
XLIII - Steelers def. Cardinals
XLVI - Giants def. Patriots
XLVII - Ravens def. 49ers
Countdown to Kickoff
The NFL/NFC has won 26 Super Bowls; the AFL/AFC has won 22 Super Bowls.
The AFL/AFC won 11 of the first 15 Super Bowls. The NFC then won 14 of the next 15 Super Bowls (including 13 in a row from 1985 through 1998). The AFC holds a 10-8 advantage over the last 18 games.
The Patriots, Giants and Steelers own seven of the new millennium's 13 Lombardi Trophies.
1920's = Canton Bulldogs
1930's = Green Bay Packers
1940's = Chicago Bears (NFL); Cleveland Browns (AAFC)
1950's = Detroit Lions
1960's = Green Bay Packers (NFL); Kansas City Chiefs (AFL)
1970's = Pittsburgh Steelers
1980's = San Francisco 49ers
1990's = Dallas Cowboys
2000's = New England Patriots
The team of the 2010's will close out the first full century of professional football. The Patriots and Seahawks are making their second SB appearances. As defending champs, the Seahawks own first dibs on the decade.
The Patriots had a +12 turnover ratio; the Seahawks had +10.
The AFL/AFC won 11 of the first 15 Super Bowls. The NFC then won 14 of the next 15 Super Bowls (including 13 in a row from 1985 through 1998). The AFC holds a 10-8 advantage over the last 18 games.
The Patriots, Giants and Steelers own seven of the new millennium's 13 Lombardi Trophies.
- Most NFL Championships: Packers 9; Bears 8; Browns 4; Giants 4; Lions 4; Eagles 3.
- Most AAFC Championships: Browns 4.
- Most AFL Championships: Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs 3; Houston Oilers 2; Bills 2.
- Most Lombardi Trophies: Steelers 6; 49ers 5; Cowboys 5; Giants 4; Packers 4.
- No Super Bowl Appearances: Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans.
1920's = Canton Bulldogs
1930's = Green Bay Packers
1940's = Chicago Bears (NFL); Cleveland Browns (AAFC)
1950's = Detroit Lions
1960's = Green Bay Packers (NFL); Kansas City Chiefs (AFL)
1970's = Pittsburgh Steelers
1980's = San Francisco 49ers
1990's = Dallas Cowboys
2000's = New England Patriots
The team of the 2010's will close out the first full century of professional football. The Patriots and Seahawks are making their second SB appearances. As defending champs, the Seahawks own first dibs on the decade.
The Matchup
AFC - New England Patriots (12-4); def. Ravens, Colts.
NFC- Seattle Seahawks (12-4); def. Panthers, Packers.
- Useless fact #1- Bill Belichick replaced Pete Carroll as head coach of the New England Patriots.
- Useless fact #2 - The last time these teams met in 2012, Carroll, Russell Wilson, and the Seahawks walked off the field in triumph. Tom Brady threw two picks, and the Seahawks scored 14-points in the 4th quarter for a 24-23 victory.
The Patriots had a +12 turnover ratio; the Seahawks had +10.
Game Time
SUPER BOWL XLIX
AFC CHAMPIONS
(12-4)
New England Patriots
vs.
NFC CHAMPIONS
(12-4)
Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have fielded the NFL's best defense for three years running. Period. They're not very intricate or technical; they just line up on either side of the ball and defy you to outplay them. They're young, strong, extremely athletic, and even cocky - like their coach. Offensively, Marshawn Lynch runs with power, and Russell Wilson is problematic in that he's both equally adept at running or throwing, or throwing while running. The Seattle Seahawks are the closest to being a complete team as there is in football.
A strong running game and a formidable defense smells like victory.
That said, the Cowboys should have beaten the Packers, and the Packers should have beaten the Seahawks, and Tom Brady and the Patriots know how to finish.
This is one game - any given Sunday applies.
No one understands the Seahawks mentality better perhaps than Bill Belichick. He mastered how to defend the read-option as a teenager, and over his career, has humbled the league's best. Pete Carroll is bold, and capable of his own trickery. Bill Belichick however, is methodical and brilliant.
A strong running game and a formidable defense smells like victory.
That said, the Cowboys should have beaten the Packers, and the Packers should have beaten the Seahawks, and Tom Brady and the Patriots know how to finish.
This is one game - any given Sunday applies.
No one understands the Seahawks mentality better perhaps than Bill Belichick. He mastered how to defend the read-option as a teenager, and over his career, has humbled the league's best. Pete Carroll is bold, and capable of his own trickery. Bill Belichick however, is methodical and brilliant.
If Vince Lombardi was the Moses of football, then Belichick is surely Joshua. He authored the next volume of modern football biblia, and decides when to reveal his law - like when he had Doug Flutie perform an obscure drop kick for an extra point, or employing two/three tight end sets, or rushing the QB with just two linemen in SB XXV, or most recently with his tackle eligible deployment against the Colts. One of the things Belichick does best is exploiting other coach's complacency. There is no doubt in my mind he has something in store especially tailored for Seattle.
Everyone forgets that while the Jets went to back-to-back AFC title games, the Patriots were actually rebuilding their entire defense, and still won division titles. This game is exactly what Bill Belichick has been drafting over the last 6 years for - to build a defense, and squeeze out one more Super Bowl ring out of Tom Brady before he retires.
Part of Bend-don't-Break has less to do with rushing the QB, and more to do with sure tackling. I think the Patriots defense will be up to the physical challenge that awaits them.
Seattle isn't exactly a prolific scoring team to begin with. Marshawn Lynch won't be hard to find. He'll be running between the tackles behind a good offensive line. The Pats just can't allow Lynch to bounce off. Then, after two weeks to prepare, Hoody will also have his defense sufficiently schooled in detecting and stopping the option play.
If Rex Ryan can write a thesis on how to defend the old Green Bay sweep play, then Belichick can surely author an entire encyclopedia on defending the option. I particularly do not like running QB's, however, Russell Wilson is one of the smartest hybrids in the business. He knows how to pick and choose his moments.
I suspect the Pats will leave Darrelle Revis in man coverage, and dare Russell Wilson to stay in the pocket, and pick on Brandon Browner, Devin McCourty, and Patrick Chung.
When the Patriots have the ball, I expect Tom Brady and Bill Belichick to take out every ounce of their frustrations from DeflateGate on the Seahawks.
Here's the kicker: I think Belichick is going to try and rush the ball right down Seattle's throat. The Seahawks soft white underbelly is their defensive line. The Patriots have a big offensive line, and are four backs deep, with three backs who averaged over 4-yards per carry this season, and no fumbles.
Their 5 yard crossing pattern scheme is also pseudo running game.
I also fully expect Tom Brady to go right after Richard Sherman. If Sherman is going to be playing with a compromised shoulder, Brady will try and exploit him.
The idea is to create more problems for Seattle than just having to account for Danny Amendola and The Gronk.
My Pick:
Patriots -1 (Seahawks)
WIN; 28-24 Patriots
WIN; 28-24 Patriots
As the Las Vegas line suggests, I expect a close game, and for the Patriots to come out on top.
Then again, what the hell do I know..?
I could be completely wrong about everything. But I doubt it.
Good luck, have a Happy Super Bowl Sunday, and get home safe!
Mike
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Today for Rising Apple: The Mets Need Another Established Lefty For The Bullpen
Here's my latest for
Mike
senior staff writer/RisingApple
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
N.Y. Islanders Extend Season Dominance Over N.Y. Rangers
From the desks of:
RAISE GRESCH WITH THE GREATS and BROOKLYN'S FOSTER HOCKEY CLUB
TUESDAY FINAL
NY Rangers 1
NY Islanders 4
Look what the Islanders did to the Rangers..., again!
For a third straight time, the Islanders dispatched the Rangers by a decisive 3-goal margin, and over the trio of games have outscored the Rangers by a 13-4 discrepancy.
Jaroslav Halak posted his 26th win of the season, and ALMOST registered his second straight shutout over the Rangers. With 40 saves, his whitewashing was all but secured. Then Carl Hagelin scored with 0:10 left in the game.
Give credit to the Rangers for landing the first hit of the game, and for trying to match Long Island's physicality in the early going. The Islanders even let the Rangers utilize some of their speed and passing for a bit.
By the midway point of the 1st period, however, the Islanders started weighing on the Blueshirts, and wound up out-hitting the Rangers 46-35 in the game.
Once again it was Tanner Glass administering the Rangers limited toughness when Marc Staal and Matt Martin came face to face. In the 2nd period, Kevin Klein did a nice job protecting his goalie from an overzealous Islander. In fact, the Rangers and Islanders came together several times throughout the game. For the Rangers, however, to no avail.
The Rangers face-off woes continued as well, getting out done by a 38-24 clip.
This was the Islanders first game post Kyle Okposo injury.
At the 18:05 mark of the 1st period, John Tavares' new line-mate, Mikhail Grabovski, finally put the Islanders on the scoreboard with his 7th goal of the season.
The Islanders 4th line made it 2-0 in the 2nd period. At the 4:11 mark, Cal Clutterbuck's pass from behind net exploited the Rangers lack of accountability in front of Lundqvist. Matt Martin converted the feed for his 7th goal of the season.
Despite out-shooting the Isles 18-11 in the 2nd period, the Rangers averted a 3-0 deficit when the Isles struck a crossbar with 8:30 to go.
No matter, six minutes into the 3rd period Ryan Strome scored his 9th goal of the season (with help from Ryan McDonagh), and roughly ten minutes after that, John Tavares scored on a power play.
The Islanders increased their Metro Division lead over the Rangers to 7 points. They lead the NHL with 32 victories, but are now tied with the Detroit Red Wings with 65 points for the Eastern Conference lead.
Mike
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Brooklyn Nets: Kings of the Second Circuit
From the desk of: THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH
BROOKLYN NETS: Dear Ownership, Forget Lionel Hollins; Billy King Is Your Problem. He Created This Mess That Will Compromise The Team For Years to Come.
I've been saying for a while now, that it was only a matter of time before either Billy King or Mikhail Prokhorov got tired of listening to Lionel Hollins openly disparage the team.
The players certainly have. But, in their case, the truth hurts.
On the one hand, it's nice that someone in upper management is actually worried whether Hollins' message is getting through to the players. On the other hand, upper management just doesn't get it, because they're a large part of the problem.
In fact, Coach Hollins is least of the Brooklyn Nets problems.
He became available because of the "new ownership wanted to go in a new direction" thing. Hollins otherwise left the Memphis Grizzlies in very good shape, and left behind some very good player relationships.
Lionel Hollins leaves no question as to who's in charge of the Nets locker room. I couldn't say that with confidence about Jason Kidd or P.J. Carlesimo. And, I know the Nets are a defensively improved team under Hollins. That's also something I couldn't say about P.J. Carlesimo's or Jason Kidd's time as coach.
Hollins coaches with a heavy hand, and blindfolded to the names on jerseys; just ask Brook Lopez and Deron Williams.
But, what was already an erratic offensive team has gotten astonishingly worse under Coach Hollins, and they still lack a discernible offensive system of play.
The thing is, P.J. and Kidd each coached their respective variations of this roster, and had them turned around by January. As January 2015 draws to a close, Coach Hollins' variation of the roster has so far failed to turn things around, and are failing in increasingly miserable fashion.
At least P.J. and Kidd were able to turn bad situations around, and guide their teams to the playoffs. Last season, Jason Kidd and the Nets even won their first playoff series as a Brooklyn franchise, but were eliminated in the second round.
The last two games for Coach Hollins and the Nets were particularly distressing, in which they were outscored by a 231-157 margin. On Jan. 22nd, they got routed by the Los Angeles Clippers, 123-84; a 39-point discrepancy. On Jan. 24th, they were likewise blown out by the Utah Jazz, 108-73; another 35-point discrepancy.
They are just 3-10 in January, and 18-26 for the season, and have now fallen out of the Eastern Conference top eight teams.
There are two things, however, that Carlesimo, Kidd, and Hollins, all have in common: their general manager, and that for the third straight season the roster he assembled has been woeful against teams with winning records.
Billy King has taken Mikhail Prokhorov's passionate fiscal investment into Brooklyn basketball, and has by all counts built the worst team money can buy. The man has maxed-out the salary cap for another season after this, and has severely compromised the team's draft for the remainder of the decade.
To the dismay of a borough, the Brooklyn Nets have become nothing more than the Kings of the Second Circuit.
Instead of an intensive audit into Lionel Hollins work, who the hell is putting Billy King under the spotlight?
Lionel Hollins signed a four year deal. What is King going to do? Fire him? If he does, King should follow him through the door. There is no way he can survive his present employment and be allowed to hire what would be the team's 5TH coach in less that three full seasons?
And, with the trade deadline looming, he's on the brink of making what would be his fourth radical makeover?
No mas!
Dear ownership, look no further. Billy King is your problem.
Save us.
Hello? Is any one there, or have you sold the team already?
Mike
Billy King's Borough Of Misfit Toys
BROOKLYN NETS: Dear Ownership, Forget Lionel Hollins; Billy King Is Your Problem. He Created This Mess That Will Compromise The Team For Years to Come.
Previously: The Woes of Flatbush
I've been saying for a while now, that it was only a matter of time before either Billy King or Mikhail Prokhorov got tired of listening to Lionel Hollins openly disparage the team.
The players certainly have. But, in their case, the truth hurts.
On the one hand, it's nice that someone in upper management is actually worried whether Hollins' message is getting through to the players. On the other hand, upper management just doesn't get it, because they're a large part of the problem.
In fact, Coach Hollins is least of the Brooklyn Nets problems.
He became available because of the "new ownership wanted to go in a new direction" thing. Hollins otherwise left the Memphis Grizzlies in very good shape, and left behind some very good player relationships.
Lionel Hollins leaves no question as to who's in charge of the Nets locker room. I couldn't say that with confidence about Jason Kidd or P.J. Carlesimo. And, I know the Nets are a defensively improved team under Hollins. That's also something I couldn't say about P.J. Carlesimo's or Jason Kidd's time as coach.
Hollins coaches with a heavy hand, and blindfolded to the names on jerseys; just ask Brook Lopez and Deron Williams.
But, what was already an erratic offensive team has gotten astonishingly worse under Coach Hollins, and they still lack a discernible offensive system of play.
The thing is, P.J. and Kidd each coached their respective variations of this roster, and had them turned around by January. As January 2015 draws to a close, Coach Hollins' variation of the roster has so far failed to turn things around, and are failing in increasingly miserable fashion.
At least P.J. and Kidd were able to turn bad situations around, and guide their teams to the playoffs. Last season, Jason Kidd and the Nets even won their first playoff series as a Brooklyn franchise, but were eliminated in the second round.
The last two games for Coach Hollins and the Nets were particularly distressing, in which they were outscored by a 231-157 margin. On Jan. 22nd, they got routed by the Los Angeles Clippers, 123-84; a 39-point discrepancy. On Jan. 24th, they were likewise blown out by the Utah Jazz, 108-73; another 35-point discrepancy.
They are just 3-10 in January, and 18-26 for the season, and have now fallen out of the Eastern Conference top eight teams.
There are two things, however, that Carlesimo, Kidd, and Hollins, all have in common: their general manager, and that for the third straight season the roster he assembled has been woeful against teams with winning records.
Billy King has taken Mikhail Prokhorov's passionate fiscal investment into Brooklyn basketball, and has by all counts built the worst team money can buy. The man has maxed-out the salary cap for another season after this, and has severely compromised the team's draft for the remainder of the decade.
To the dismay of a borough, the Brooklyn Nets have become nothing more than the Kings of the Second Circuit.
Instead of an intensive audit into Lionel Hollins work, who the hell is putting Billy King under the spotlight?
Lionel Hollins signed a four year deal. What is King going to do? Fire him? If he does, King should follow him through the door. There is no way he can survive his present employment and be allowed to hire what would be the team's 5TH coach in less that three full seasons?
And, with the trade deadline looming, he's on the brink of making what would be his fourth radical makeover?
No mas!
Dear ownership, look no further. Billy King is your problem.
Save us.
Hello? Is any one there, or have you sold the team already?
Mike
Monday, January 26, 2015
The Rivalry: Rangers vs. Islanders - III
From the desks of:
RAISE GRESCH WITH THE GREATS and BROOKLYN'S FOSTER HOCKEY CLUB
RAISE GRESCH WITH THE GREATS and BROOKLYN'S FOSTER HOCKEY CLUB
The Rivalry - III
Islanders lead series 2-0
I - NYI 6; NYR 3
II - NYI 3; NYR 0
III - The Blizzard of 2015
Tuesday Night
New York Rangers
vs.
New York Islanders
from
Where the Lighthouse Project Should Have Been Built!
Long Island
* * * Snow Storm Permitting * * *
New York Rangers: Blueshirts Might Want To Start Growing Their Beards A Little Earlier Than Usual.
This Team is One Cheap Shot Away From Losing Their One Big Shot.
Along with Anaheim and Detroit, the Blueshirts are 8-2 in their last ten games, and looking to extend a 3-game win streak.
They are winning 61% of their games, owning a 27-13-4 record, good for 58 points.
They're 6th in the Eastern Conference; Washington is 7th with 57 points; and Boston is 8th with 56 points.
They are tied with the Habs in the Eastern Conference for the least goals allowed. However, they only rank fourth within their own division in goals scored.
The Rangers are running in a pack, and the saying is - only the strong survive. There are 38 games remaining in their season. They may get to the regular season finish line thanks in large part to a weak field, but, at some point they're going need more grit and grind in their game.
March looms as a pivotal month in their season.
For now, there's Tuesday's first game back after the break (if Mr. Freeze let's them play). With a victory, the defending Eastern Conference champs can edge to within 3-points of the Metro Division leading Islanders.
Their prospects for success improved Monday, when it was announced Kyle Okposo will miss the next 8 weeks with an injury.
Bad break for the Isles; physical relief for the Rangers.
The last time they met, the Islanders held a tutorial on how to slow down the Rangers. In both their previous meetings this season, the Islanders defeated the Rangers by 3-point margins, as Long Island's distinct size advantage weighed heavily in both outcomes.
New York Islanders: I Thought Everyone Was Taking A Break; So What The Hell Happened To Kyle Okposo?
Coach Capuano said what?
Kyle Okposo will miss the next 6 to 8 weeks with an undisclosed upper body injury.
The injury possibly occurred Monday.
In 46 games played, Okposo is the the Islanders second leading scorer with 44 points; one behind John Tavares. He has 14 goals, and leads the team with 30 assists and 154 shots on goal.
His absence also negatively affects Long Island's power play. Okposo had 4 goals and a team leading 12 assists on special teams.
Ryan Strome and Brock Nelson are the team's second and third leading scorers. Strome is second on the team with 25 assists, and Brock Nelson's 15 goals are second to John Tavares' 21 goals.
This injury should take the Islanders into March. There's going to be a price to pay. Their job now is to minimize the damage. However, good teams have players who step up. It will be interesting to see who Coach Capuano selects as Tavares' new wing man.
That said, the Islanders are manned to withstand Okposo's injury, and recover any lost ground in the final month of the season (I think).
After Tuesday's game against the Rangers, the Isles have two big games against the Bruins and Red Wings.
As I said in my last post - now comes the hard part.
* John Tavares scored four goals in Sunday's All-Star game.
Mike
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Today for Rising Apple: Zack Wheeler Must Lead Mets Turnaround Against Nationals
Here's my latest for
Mike
Senior Staff Writer/Rising Apple
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