Wednesday, October 31, 2012

BCS Format

Starting in the 2013-2014 season, the BCS will be implementing the 4 team playoff as a part of the new BCS system. However, it may be a year too late.

This year as everyone knows, the BCS championship will be decided by the very controversial system where a teams overall rank is based on (1/3) coaches poll, (1/3) Harris poll, and (1/3) computers.

As if right now the following teams have undefeated records: Alabama, Kansas State, Notre Dame, and Oregon. All of which may go undefeated if Alabama can get by LSU in Death Valley on Saturday. If tho does indeed happen, who will face Alabama in the national championship game? (It is all but determined that if Alabama wins out they will stay ranked #1 and play for the silver ball.)

This is certain to stir up some drama in the next couple weeks. And of the past few years have taught us anything about college football, it is that none of these four teams are a lock to go undefeated. Enjoy the remainder of the season.

Monday, October 29, 2012

San Francisco Giants

This might be a couple days late. But I would like to congratulate the 2012 world series champions San Francisco Giants for winning their 7th world series title. They swept the Detroit Tigers in 4 games. 

Friday, October 26, 2012

The Way of the Sport


What can and can’t one do in the name of survival in order to ensure that they are successful in their goal while maintaining their ethical composure that they inevitably have? Survival of the fittest they say, but what good can a stronger being do to another that has set up traps along the brush that, without the slightest cognizant thought, will plummet the goliath to his doom? On the other hand, if a trap fails
the more feeble bodied, who is he to escape the savagery of the brute?

Since the dawn of man, competition has descent through the inner cogs of our minds compilation of thought. To think is to live they say, but as not only history, but modern life has taught us, living is only successfully achieved through thinking relevantly. In the times of hunter-gatherers, the ones who’s head in the clouds were, for the most part, the compunctious fools who hadn’t made it far. The level minded,
attributed man survived. When the worker had grown sick of some disease, the medicine man, being afraid of the man who has constantly stolen his food, lets him suffer for his personal faults.

This sample of Social Darwinism has proved that neither brains nor bronze overpower one another, but that together, a better, more evolved man may be produced in future generations. The nature of Humanity, concrete, it is not, for as time has proven, the sense of reality is anything but static. With that said though, it is also agreeable that humanity in general is not as unique as one might think. We all, in vague retrospect, want the same things. Peace, love, happiness, give grief to those we feel have
wronged us, help those we feel need it, provide our loved ones with safety and security, and much more. So as much as things change, some always remain the same.

The instinct of competition is one of those eternally embedded drives that we seem to possess. It is a fundamental ingredient to ourselves, though the methods might shift in our altering course of existence, we will always find our way into competing, whether for a physical prize, luxury, right, recognition, righteous passage, or for the most basic theme of survival. Some may think that we as humans have “progressed” as a society that competition is the way of the past, barbaric, coarse, and uncivilized. To progress is to become closer with a final result, and whatever one's beliefs might be, alone,
we will hardly change in our enigmatic ways. Peace and wealth for everyone is but a fools dream, at least in this world, and to make it by in life, we must compete for even our most basic wants and needs.

Now this isn’t an economic lecture, but do take in mind that even communism, theoretically, is
completely devoid of such competition, but as humanity has presented us, theory only goes so far. No matter the nation, no matter the society, no matter the family, no matter the person, we will have a sense of competition burrowing itself within the lobes of our brains, itching for us to do what we need to have what we want to achieve. In the theory of perfect capitalism, which is just as much a failure as communism in real practice, humanity would also be wronged for the fellow seeds of morality and ethics shall push alongside the competitor to fulfill a personal act of laudable proportions.

As we can now establish that competition is fundamental, yet not dominating in the character of man, it is distinguishable that it is healthy to compete, but that we must also have a conscious in doing so. Also, to compete is not only to be the smartest or strongest, but to possess both traits in the widest parameter as one can get. Of course, depending on the task at hand, the weight scale might have to tip to one way or the other to achieve the specified goal, thus introducing the potential of cooperation. 2 heads are better than one, aren’t they?

Cooperation, another fundamental instinct of man, creeps its way to conjoin its fellow competitor and moral seed of the brain to find a rational plan of action to set forth. It is with this cooperation that, not in all cases, we can exemplify our mental goals in a more fitting fashion. We find the way to incorporate several minds and bodies into one so that not only is the task more efficiently executed, but that a social connection of loyalty may emerge. And with this loyalty comes an opposing instinct of generosity towards those you feel deserve your helping hand. Where one may lack, another provides, and maybe even conjoin one another’s knowledge and strengths to better the other in a synchronistic fashion.

It’s quite funny how a trait such as competition, a trait that carries more of a negative
connotation with it, also brings along a multitude of other traits, some carrying more of a positive connotation on their backs. It is simply human. It is the way of the Sport.

Sports embody all these virtuous traits, be it negative or positive to one’s personal definition, in a way that gives varying methods and tact as to give the Athlete, any human being for that matter, a choice as to what he or she finds most fitting for themselves. The Athlete does not necessarily mean the stereotypical jock pop culture has pointed out as, though they are usually the best of whatever their specified occupation may be, but as anyone who puts at least a little effort into competing for some sort of achievement, whether it be a personal goal, a cooperative vision, or for a sense of acceptance in a manner that strains both physique and intellect as much as it need be. Thus, any one, no matter the physical or
mental conditions they might find themselves in, has the potential of becoming an Athlete.

Straining intellect in a Sport? Even the Sport of Track, where one just runs in an oval to put it bluntly, consists of not only physically strong legs, but to conquer mind games of weakness and quitting. Also, many fundamentals that must be physically used in running have to become second hand in the Athletes mind so that they freely stride in a specific way that gives more advantage to achieving the goal of passing the finish line in first place.
To bring cooperation in play, American football can be seen as my coach has stated before, “Organized violence.” Truth be said in those words, but it also brought a sense of close friendship, and somewhat of a brotherhood between my team mates and I. All for one, and one for all.

The point of all of this is, is that the Sport is hardly just a form of entertainment, but a way of life. It defines some humans such as Usain Bolt. It saves others such as Michael Oher. The Sport can provide sense of belonging. It provides good morals and work ethic for the most part. With all this in mind, I suggest that even if you are not participating in any Sport for whatever reason it may be, may you inspire others to do so, predominantly in high school or middle school where it isn’t too difficult to be part
of the programs. Plus, there are alternate programs such as Debate, Math competitions, and other intellectually dominant Sports.

We are human, therefore we are Athletes. We live, therefore we’re embodied in the Sport.
NHL LOCKOUT UPDATE

The  2012-13 NHL has been canceled through November 30th due to both sides not able to come to an agreement towards the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the NHL and the NHLPA (players Association).

A total of 326 scheduled games have been canceled from Oct 11th through Nov 30th. This amount is around 26.5% of the total season.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

The New York Islanders have found a new home for the 2015-16 season

The New York Islanders, who have been playing in the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum ever since the team joined the league in  1972. Has seen many great players and great events such as a stretch of 4 straight Stanley cups from 1980-1983.

After a long stay here, they (Islanders) are moving to Brooklyn after their long stay in Uniondale. Previous attempts were made to renovate and build a new arena near the coliseum and keep the Islanders in Uniondale. 

The Islanders will keep there color scheme, logo and will still be the "New York" Islanders. Hope to see how they do when they make the move. They will also be sharing the arena with the Nets, who they shared the coliseum  in the early 70's.
There's no place like home, except when home is a 3 year old arena.

Below is some concept art if the Islanders were to change their logo
http://blogs.thescore.com/nhl/2012/10/24/an-overview-of-what-the-islanders-move-to-brooklyn-means-for-their-fans/

^the link above is where the art was found

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Tonight was a good night

The Chicago  Bears and their trademark defense shut down the 4th quarter magic making Lions on Monday night 13-7. 


The lions seemed to get overwhelmed by Chicago's Defense, as a result, they turned the ball over 4 times (3 fumbles, 1 INT) The Bears improve to a healthy 5-1 record in a strong NFC North while conference foe Detroit falls to 2-4.

Chicago leads the NFC North, followed closely by the surprisingly Vikings of Minnesota ( 5-2) and then the surging Green Bay Packers who started the year 2-3 before stringing together 2 straight wins to pull to a record of 4-3, while Detroit follows with a record of 2-4 after last nights close game.

Expect the NFC North to be one of the more dynamic divisions, and possible have a team that has a legit chance of winning the Super Bowl this year.

Saturday, October 20, 2012

College Football Week 8

Penn State is on its way to a 5-2 record, tied atop the Big 10 conference with a duel next week for first place with Ohio State.

Ohio State pulled a rabbit out of the hat with a comeback OT win over Purdue. The big question is how long will Braxton Miller be out for after leaving for the hospital after being knocked out in the third quarter.

Norte Dame and Kansas State are the real deal. Both have a legitimate shot at the national title, and I might be jumping on the Collin Klein heisman bandwagon.

Lots of exciting college football to talk about on the show tomorrow.

Friday, October 19, 2012

NHL CANCELED THROUGH NOVEMBER 1ST

Well after the proposed 50/50 offer, I though that there might be hope for a full season of hockey, I guess not. A total of 135 regular season games were scheduled between Oct 11 and Nov 1. The ball was in the player court, apparently the NHLPA did not like the offer and turned it down. The cancellation of these games were due to an absence of agreement towards the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)

Here is the official notification from the National Hockey League's (NHL) web site.
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=643820&cmpid=fb

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Mike Vick owns a Pet

There is no forgetting about what Michael Vick did in the past with dogs. But there is forgiving. Forgiveness seems to have become a lost concept in this world. Of course, an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind. So why are so many people blinded by the man's past?

Vick has done his time, and is working continuously with animal organizations in an attempt to increase animal safety. What happens when you hurt your brother? You say sorry, and he forgives you. Same concept here. I do not agree with or condemn anything that Vick did in the past with dogs, but I do believe in second chances and that people can change.

I think people need to open their eyes and stop being blinded by the past. I admire Vick's courage to continue his career in the NFL knowing that everywhere he goes fans will be screaming and saying awful things at him.

This past week, Vick has openly come out and said that he owns a pet. Many people do not agree with him bening able to own a pet because of his past. What is this? Are we a communist country now? Should Vick have to get approved of owning a pet by the government? America prides itself on being a free country, yet what people are saying about Vick owning a pet is so contradicting.

This is what Vick had to say about owning a pet, "I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet. As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family. This is an opportunity to break the cycle. To that end, I will continue to honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change."

Sounds like a changed man committed to making a positive impact in his family's life. So leave the man alone and let him live his life, he served his time for what he did.

Do not hesitate to call the show at 413-748-3722. I know I have written about a lot of controversial topics, and I would love to hear your opinion on the subjects. 

Pats run over?

So, did not get this at the end of tonight's show but how about that Seahawks comeback against New England. With the Pats up 23-10 with under 10 minutes to play, I turned my attention away from the New England game. As it turns out, Russell Wilson led the to a 24-23 victory with two late touchdown passes, with the winning score coming with 1:14 remaining in the game.

Now this is the part I love the most. The Patriots teams of the past, would not have lost that game.
         1. The defense would not have given up those two late scores.      
         2. Tom Brady leads that team to at least a field goal with 1:14 remaining in the game.

Finally, Bill Belichick's arrogance (in my opinion) has come back to bite him. With 6 seconds left in the first half, the Pats had the ball at the Seattle 5 yard line. Normally, you kick a field goal in that situation and take the points. But of course, Belichick, with his over confidence in Tom Brady, decided to go for the touchdown, and Brady made a silly intentional grounding mistake that resulted in a 10 second run off, and halftime. No points. If they take the field goal there, they win the game. These risks that New England has lived by the past decade are not working anymore.

In the past, New England would have won that close Arizona game, won that close Baltimore game, and won this game. That "magic" that they seemed to have for years is not on their side this year. A rookie quarterback just beat Tom Brady. The run  is over Pats fans. I loved seeing your whining, complain  reactions on Twitter and Facebook after the game. I just wish I could have seen them in person. However, there is no reason for you to complain, you have dominated the NFL for a decade now and the  run may be over.

I know I can't talk much given the Eagles play lately, but I am writing this as an NFL fan. As my good friend Elijah Ryan has said, "I am a student of the game first, fan second." This post would not be complete if I did not given a shout out to my co-host Hunter Julius, saying before this comeback that Russell Wilson is the best rookie quarterback in the league so far. Props to you Hunter.

PASS THE TORCH NEW ENGLAND!                                                                    

Friday, October 12, 2012

ALDS

Orioles and Yankees go into game 5 after the O's pull off a great victory in the bottom of the 13th inning, this should be a great game to watch.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

MLB Postseason

What can you say about the MLB? Every year the postseason seems to have a new incredible story line to it.

So far this year it has been all about the comebacks. It appear the SF Giants are closing in on an incredible 2-0 none series defecit to beat the Reds 3 games to 2. What's even more astounding is that they will have won three games in a row on the road while facing elimination.

Oakland may have some similar magic up they're sleeve. After a thrilling walk off come from behind victory last night, they will try to do the same thing the Giants are doing tonight. The only difference is the A's are backed by their home crowd.

Will we see more LDS series comebacks, or maybe some in the LCD series'? Only time will tell.
ALDS
After a thrilling game 4 in the ALDS,the Oakland Athletics wins in the 9th inning with a walk off single by Coco Crisp sending the ball into right field resulting in the series between the Athletics and the Tigers 2-2 Your winning pitcher for the A's is R. Cook while the Tigers J.Valverde takes the loss.

For the other game in the AL series, the Orioles lost to the Yankees 3-2 in extra innings (12). Resulting in the series to be 2-1 with the Yankees leading the series over the Orioles. The winning pitcher for this game is D.Robertson for New York, while B.Matusz suffers the lose for Baltimore