I have always enjoyed grits. They are a true southern favorite, and they are really simple to make.
The first key to making grits is stirring them constantly, this keeps 'golf balls' from appearing on your plate, and no one wants to eat lumpy grits. The second key is to not be stingy with the salt shaker. I usually put a little bit of salt in every time I open the pot to stir. Grits with little to no salt are not good at all. Third, you need butter. Some people like to put a helping of butter on when the grits are on your plate, but I prefer to just put the butter on while they are still in the pot.
From this point the grits are ready to eat, but there are some ways to make them even better. If you've got some heavy whipping cream, that is good. But the best thing to do is put some cheese in your grits. Pepperjack, American, cheddar, gouda, whatever cheese you want, just throw that cheese in the grits when they are done and let it melt for a couple minutes and you've got a creamy, delicious breakfast with grits on your plate.
JB
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
George Strait
My Top 10 George Strait songs:
10. "Today My World Slipped Away", 1997
9. "Carried Away", 1996
8. "You Look So Good in Love", 1983
7. "I'd Like to Have That One Back", 1993
6. "Lead On", 1995
5. "Fool Hearted Memory", 1982
4. "Nobody in His Right Mind Would've Left Her", 1986
3. "The Chair", 1985
2. "Let's Fall to Pieces Together", 1984
1. "Amarillo by Morning", 1983
Bee Dub's Top 10 George Strait songs:
1. Amarillo By Morning - Just a great all around song, a true cowboy song.
2. The Fireman- Sentimental favorite that probably shouldn't be this high but I love it.
3. Ocean Front Property - Classic example of a George Strait song with lyrics that tell a joke that you have to pay attention to understand.
4. Heartland - Great song from a great movie.
5. All My Exes Live In Texas - Who doesn't love this song?
6. I Can Still Make Cheyenne - Similar to Amarillo By Morning, a great rodeo song.
7. The Seashores of Old Mexico - This song has a bit of a different feel to it. I love it.
8. I Cross My Heart - Another great song from a great movie, it's tough to say which one is more famous but the whole soundtrack is great.
9. She'll Leave You With A Smile - Nice catchy tune.
10. The Chair - Great song about love in a honkey-tonk.
JB
10. "Today My World Slipped Away", 1997
9. "Carried Away", 1996
8. "You Look So Good in Love", 1983
7. "I'd Like to Have That One Back", 1993
6. "Lead On", 1995
5. "Fool Hearted Memory", 1982
4. "Nobody in His Right Mind Would've Left Her", 1986
3. "The Chair", 1985
2. "Let's Fall to Pieces Together", 1984
1. "Amarillo by Morning", 1983
Bee Dub's Top 10 George Strait songs:
1. Amarillo By Morning - Just a great all around song, a true cowboy song.
2. The Fireman- Sentimental favorite that probably shouldn't be this high but I love it.
3. Ocean Front Property - Classic example of a George Strait song with lyrics that tell a joke that you have to pay attention to understand.
4. Heartland - Great song from a great movie.
5. All My Exes Live In Texas - Who doesn't love this song?
6. I Can Still Make Cheyenne - Similar to Amarillo By Morning, a great rodeo song.
7. The Seashores of Old Mexico - This song has a bit of a different feel to it. I love it.
8. I Cross My Heart - Another great song from a great movie, it's tough to say which one is more famous but the whole soundtrack is great.
9. She'll Leave You With A Smile - Nice catchy tune.
10. The Chair - Great song about love in a honkey-tonk.
JB
Friday, July 29, 2011
The Future of College Football
I've written plenty on this blog about what I think should or should not be done to alter college football so that it can be even better. But now I want to give my prognostication about what changes I think will happen over the next 5-10 years which could drastically alter the structure of college football.
1. With all the conference realignment of the summer of 2010, not much ended up happening, but there was some movement. But really, I think that was a bit of foreshadowing for what is to come in the near future. The Big XII, which only has 10 teams, is basically Texas plus nine...and Texas A&M and Oklahoma don't like that. I think there is a very real possibility that A&m and possibly Oklahoma branch off and join the SEC. This would force Texas to become an independent and leave the other 7 schools scrambling for somewhere to go...I assume Missouri and Kansas would join the Big 10, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech to the PAC 12, and Iowa St., Kansas St. and Baylor to Mountain West, Big East, or CUSA. So basically, the Big 12 will dissolve like the Southwest conference did.
2. If the above happens, then the Big 10, PAC 12, and SEC would all have 14 teams, and would need two more to have a nice 16 number. The SEC picks up Clemson or N.C. State and Virginia Tech. The Big 10 (or now 16) picks up Rutgers and Syracuse. The PAC 12 (or now 16) picks up Boise State and either SMU, TCU or Baylor. So, now you've got (3) 16-team conferences, the Big East with 7 or 8 teams, the ACC with 10 teams, and a few high-profile independents.
3. The big conferences are sick of having to share the revenue for the BCS and everything else with the 50+ non-BCS schools. And these schools keep making the jump from I-AA to get their hands on that money, and they aren't contributing very much, but complaining about how they can't get into the BCS Championship, etc. Not to mention the NCAA's horribleness, the major conferences want to do something about it. With the three major conferences, they branch off and create their own 'College Football Association' with or without the involvement of the NCAA.
4. Schools like Florida State, Miami (FL), West Virginia, GA Tech and other high-profile schools left out of the big 3 conferences go independent in football and pay the hefty entry fee to be included in the 'College Football Association'. Approximately 60 schools will be in the CFA, with approx. 12 being independent. Maybe the ACC or Big East is able to enter as a smaller conference, but they will not join together due to basketball so there would still be a handful of independents.
5. While the CFA would be making a ton more money than it was previously, it would be chaos without a governing body so we use our democratic system to elect one instead of creating another communist organization like the NCAA was.
6. Everything lines up for an obvious 8-team playoff. Each of the 3 conferences have championship games, and either the top 2 independents or top independent vs. Big East/ACC Champ plays to get into the 4-team playoff...and it's played out from there.
It might not all go down this way, but I think it will happen something like this. It might be impossible to get rid of the NCAA, but mega conferences are inevitable and branching out of the 'FBS' is something I think will happen.
JB
1. With all the conference realignment of the summer of 2010, not much ended up happening, but there was some movement. But really, I think that was a bit of foreshadowing for what is to come in the near future. The Big XII, which only has 10 teams, is basically Texas plus nine...and Texas A&M and Oklahoma don't like that. I think there is a very real possibility that A&m and possibly Oklahoma branch off and join the SEC. This would force Texas to become an independent and leave the other 7 schools scrambling for somewhere to go...I assume Missouri and Kansas would join the Big 10, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech to the PAC 12, and Iowa St., Kansas St. and Baylor to Mountain West, Big East, or CUSA. So basically, the Big 12 will dissolve like the Southwest conference did.
2. If the above happens, then the Big 10, PAC 12, and SEC would all have 14 teams, and would need two more to have a nice 16 number. The SEC picks up Clemson or N.C. State and Virginia Tech. The Big 10 (or now 16) picks up Rutgers and Syracuse. The PAC 12 (or now 16) picks up Boise State and either SMU, TCU or Baylor. So, now you've got (3) 16-team conferences, the Big East with 7 or 8 teams, the ACC with 10 teams, and a few high-profile independents.
3. The big conferences are sick of having to share the revenue for the BCS and everything else with the 50+ non-BCS schools. And these schools keep making the jump from I-AA to get their hands on that money, and they aren't contributing very much, but complaining about how they can't get into the BCS Championship, etc. Not to mention the NCAA's horribleness, the major conferences want to do something about it. With the three major conferences, they branch off and create their own 'College Football Association' with or without the involvement of the NCAA.
4. Schools like Florida State, Miami (FL), West Virginia, GA Tech and other high-profile schools left out of the big 3 conferences go independent in football and pay the hefty entry fee to be included in the 'College Football Association'. Approximately 60 schools will be in the CFA, with approx. 12 being independent. Maybe the ACC or Big East is able to enter as a smaller conference, but they will not join together due to basketball so there would still be a handful of independents.
5. While the CFA would be making a ton more money than it was previously, it would be chaos without a governing body so we use our democratic system to elect one instead of creating another communist organization like the NCAA was.
6. Everything lines up for an obvious 8-team playoff. Each of the 3 conferences have championship games, and either the top 2 independents or top independent vs. Big East/ACC Champ plays to get into the 4-team playoff...and it's played out from there.
It might not all go down this way, but I think it will happen something like this. It might be impossible to get rid of the NCAA, but mega conferences are inevitable and branching out of the 'FBS' is something I think will happen.
JB
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Individuality
Today's culture places an importance on everyone having their own individuality. That is fine, I'm not into everyone being a cookie-cutter version of someone else. But there are extremes that people take their individuality, which goes a little too far.
Conformity is important in America. Stereotypes help people determine who is dangerous, who can I trust upon first meeting, etc. Conforming helps you fit into a stereotype that you want to be in. On the other hand, conforming into a bad stereotype is not a good thing so it's important to choose wisely.
There are some cities and towns and maybe even states that embrace everyone being different. That is nice, but since most everyone wants to be around people like themselves, you have to conclude that someone who is completely different from everyone else has no friends.
But most people who consider themselves individualistic aren't 'freaks'. They just choose to be true to themselves and not do things just because others are doing it. Back in the day everyone just did what their parent's did for a living, there wasn't as emphasis on finding a career path or way of life you enjoy. Maybe that's why people now have a hard time deciding what to do and are trying to 'find themselves'.
I don't have a problem with individuality, but I think it can be taken too far. I think it is important for kids to be pushed a long a little bit, not everyone is driven to blaze a path for themselves. Not everyone is a leader, but that doesn't mean all followers should be copycats. Conform to the norm, but don't stain your brain trying to be the same....I made that up.
JB
Conformity is important in America. Stereotypes help people determine who is dangerous, who can I trust upon first meeting, etc. Conforming helps you fit into a stereotype that you want to be in. On the other hand, conforming into a bad stereotype is not a good thing so it's important to choose wisely.
There are some cities and towns and maybe even states that embrace everyone being different. That is nice, but since most everyone wants to be around people like themselves, you have to conclude that someone who is completely different from everyone else has no friends.
But most people who consider themselves individualistic aren't 'freaks'. They just choose to be true to themselves and not do things just because others are doing it. Back in the day everyone just did what their parent's did for a living, there wasn't as emphasis on finding a career path or way of life you enjoy. Maybe that's why people now have a hard time deciding what to do and are trying to 'find themselves'.
I don't have a problem with individuality, but I think it can be taken too far. I think it is important for kids to be pushed a long a little bit, not everyone is driven to blaze a path for themselves. Not everyone is a leader, but that doesn't mean all followers should be copycats. Conform to the norm, but don't stain your brain trying to be the same....I made that up.
JB
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Best Offenses in the SEC
1. Arkansas, (A): Knile Davis is ranked by many to be one of the top RBs in the SEC, largely due to his excellent production the second half of the season last year. I think a lot of his numbers were helped along by Ryan Mallet's ability to open the field up and create great running lanes for Davis, if Tyler Wilson be able to do the same or similar then this offense will be a step ahead of everyone else. I think it has a good chance to behind the play-calling of Bobby Petrino and the great WRs Wilson has to throw to. The O-line should be good, certainly adequate enough to have another big year on this side of the football.
2. South Carolina, (A-): Stephen Garcia is the Gamecocks 3rd leading passer of all-time, and if he has the same year this year as last year he will be the all-time leading passer. But whether he will still be on the team by the first kickoff, or the third, or tenth, who knows? Connor Shaw is a good replacement but not much experience for a team on the verge of it's best year ever. The QB and O-line are the biggest questions. They have the best WR and RB in the SEC, however, if one of those guys goes down with an injury they could be in trouble. But with all these playmakers they will be very good on offense.
3. Alabama, (A-): Not much is known about A.J. McCarron. He was a four star recruit coming out of high school so I'll have to assume he'll be at least serviceable under top SEC coaching for over two years now. Everything else looks really good. They have Trent Richardson at RB and Eddie Lacy behind him, so they are still deep even though they've lost two 4-star recruits this offseason. They lose Julio Jones but they have a senior-laden WR corps with Marquis Maze and Darius Hanks. And not only do they have 4 returning starters on the O-line but the refs never call them for holding. With all this said they lose their national championship QB, Heisman Trophy RB, and 6th overall NFL draft pick WR, that is a lot of talent and leadership off one side of the football.
4. Mississippi State, (B+): It's been a while since MSU had a solid offense, and this should be the best one in about 12 years. Chris Relf is returning as a solid run/pass threat and he has his top four rushers and receivers back from last year including Vick Ballard and Chad Bumphis. Nine starters return from an offense that was in the top half of the SEC last year. Although first round pick Derrek Sharrod is one of the losses, this should be an improved offense in 2011.
5. Georgia (B-): UGA has my #1 QB and TE, that is good but what isn't is their offensive line dropping like flies. That's especially not good when they were supposed to have the best O-line in the SEC last year and they were horrible. Washaun Ealey has transferred and senior Caleb King has been declared academically ineligible, all hopes are now on 5-star recruit Isaiah Crowell. The 4th overall pick in the NFL draft, A.J. Green, is gone so Murrey won't have as many weapons but I think they have adequate receivers...but I think there will be less open guys since last year Green commanded a double team.
6. Florida, (B-): Charlie Weis is a really good offensive coordinator. He runs a pro-style offense which is perfectly suited for John Brantley, but how well is it suited for the rest of the offensive personnel who have been recruited to run the spread option? They have 3 returning starters at WR and Jeff Demps is back at tailback, and Trey Burton could play there as well. The main question is how will the O-line do with only one returning starter? They've got three 4-star recruits coming in (two redshirt sophomores and one redshirt freshman). They should be able to do well this year as a group with their usual start of easy opponents.
7. LSU, (C+): For a team with 8 returning starters and a 4-year starting quarterback I'm not getting that excited. Maybe Jordan Jefferson will come into his own in his senior season but I'm not going to hold my breath. The O-line returns 4 starters and while there is no standout at RB I think the running game is the one area Les Miles excels. The WRs are good with Randle and Shephard but they lose their big play man in Toliver.
8. Tennessee, (C): Tyler Bray definitely did a lot to liven UT's offense up towards the end of last year. But at the same time their schedule lightened up and he took advantage of weak defenses. Nevertheless, he was a true freshman and I expect him to be just a good this year as he was in November last year. Matt Sims is a adequate back-up with experience and they've got 1,000 yard rusher Tauren Poole back. They lose the top 3 in receiving yards so the WRs are very inexperienced but they are talented. And you've got to figure the offensive line will be better with 4 returning starter, three of them were freshman last year. Overall, 7 returning starters from the 9th best offense last year...they will be better.
9. Ole Miss, (C): Randall Mackey was a good junior college QB, but at 5'-11" can he cut it in the SEC? He will have an experienced offensive line to throw behind, and he does have speed, but Ole Miss really has no WRs to speak of. Brandon Bolden and Jeff Scott are very good RBs, but if Mackey can't open the field up, they will be facing 8-9 men in the box every time they get handed the ball. If the Rebel Bears can get even an average passing game they could be very dangerous, I just don't think that is going to happen.
10. Auburn, (C-): Auburn is a running back factory so you know they are okay there with Michael Dyer and Onterio McCalebb. Lutzenkirchen is a quality tight end but other than that it doesn't look good. Who knows about Barrett Trotter at QB, or who will be the QB? Overall, 3 returning starters from last years SEC Championship team, and this offense will have 5-6 freshman and sophomores starting. I don't know if their O-line will be able to keep defenders from hitting their quality backfield behind the line of scrimmage. It looks bad on paper, but I'm sure Gus Malzahn will make the most of what he's got.
11. Vanderbilt, (D+): Vanderbilt has all 11 starters back including their top 4 rushers. I want to get excited about how good they could be but then I have to remember that it's Vandy...this same group was last in the SEC by a good margin in 2010. Larry Smith isn't that good but he is a senior and 3-year starter. They've got a good TE in Brandon Barden and good running backs. They may not score all the time but I think they are good enough to keep Vandy in some games.
12. Kentucky (D+): They've got 8 of their top 10 offensive lineman back but they lost a lot of talent in other areas like Randall Cobb, Mike Hartline, Derrick Locke, and Chris Matthews who quietly caught 61 passes for 925 yards. Morgan Newton has big shoes to fill in the long line of really good Kentucky quarterbacks, but he has the specs being 6'-4" and 235. They were in the top half of the SEC last year, but I'm not so sure they can match that production again.
JB
2. South Carolina, (A-): Stephen Garcia is the Gamecocks 3rd leading passer of all-time, and if he has the same year this year as last year he will be the all-time leading passer. But whether he will still be on the team by the first kickoff, or the third, or tenth, who knows? Connor Shaw is a good replacement but not much experience for a team on the verge of it's best year ever. The QB and O-line are the biggest questions. They have the best WR and RB in the SEC, however, if one of those guys goes down with an injury they could be in trouble. But with all these playmakers they will be very good on offense.
3. Alabama, (A-): Not much is known about A.J. McCarron. He was a four star recruit coming out of high school so I'll have to assume he'll be at least serviceable under top SEC coaching for over two years now. Everything else looks really good. They have Trent Richardson at RB and Eddie Lacy behind him, so they are still deep even though they've lost two 4-star recruits this offseason. They lose Julio Jones but they have a senior-laden WR corps with Marquis Maze and Darius Hanks. And not only do they have 4 returning starters on the O-line but the refs never call them for holding. With all this said they lose their national championship QB, Heisman Trophy RB, and 6th overall NFL draft pick WR, that is a lot of talent and leadership off one side of the football.
4. Mississippi State, (B+): It's been a while since MSU had a solid offense, and this should be the best one in about 12 years. Chris Relf is returning as a solid run/pass threat and he has his top four rushers and receivers back from last year including Vick Ballard and Chad Bumphis. Nine starters return from an offense that was in the top half of the SEC last year. Although first round pick Derrek Sharrod is one of the losses, this should be an improved offense in 2011.
5. Georgia (B-): UGA has my #1 QB and TE, that is good but what isn't is their offensive line dropping like flies. That's especially not good when they were supposed to have the best O-line in the SEC last year and they were horrible. Washaun Ealey has transferred and senior Caleb King has been declared academically ineligible, all hopes are now on 5-star recruit Isaiah Crowell. The 4th overall pick in the NFL draft, A.J. Green, is gone so Murrey won't have as many weapons but I think they have adequate receivers...but I think there will be less open guys since last year Green commanded a double team.
6. Florida, (B-): Charlie Weis is a really good offensive coordinator. He runs a pro-style offense which is perfectly suited for John Brantley, but how well is it suited for the rest of the offensive personnel who have been recruited to run the spread option? They have 3 returning starters at WR and Jeff Demps is back at tailback, and Trey Burton could play there as well. The main question is how will the O-line do with only one returning starter? They've got three 4-star recruits coming in (two redshirt sophomores and one redshirt freshman). They should be able to do well this year as a group with their usual start of easy opponents.
7. LSU, (C+): For a team with 8 returning starters and a 4-year starting quarterback I'm not getting that excited. Maybe Jordan Jefferson will come into his own in his senior season but I'm not going to hold my breath. The O-line returns 4 starters and while there is no standout at RB I think the running game is the one area Les Miles excels. The WRs are good with Randle and Shephard but they lose their big play man in Toliver.
8. Tennessee, (C): Tyler Bray definitely did a lot to liven UT's offense up towards the end of last year. But at the same time their schedule lightened up and he took advantage of weak defenses. Nevertheless, he was a true freshman and I expect him to be just a good this year as he was in November last year. Matt Sims is a adequate back-up with experience and they've got 1,000 yard rusher Tauren Poole back. They lose the top 3 in receiving yards so the WRs are very inexperienced but they are talented. And you've got to figure the offensive line will be better with 4 returning starter, three of them were freshman last year. Overall, 7 returning starters from the 9th best offense last year...they will be better.
9. Ole Miss, (C): Randall Mackey was a good junior college QB, but at 5'-11" can he cut it in the SEC? He will have an experienced offensive line to throw behind, and he does have speed, but Ole Miss really has no WRs to speak of. Brandon Bolden and Jeff Scott are very good RBs, but if Mackey can't open the field up, they will be facing 8-9 men in the box every time they get handed the ball. If the Rebel Bears can get even an average passing game they could be very dangerous, I just don't think that is going to happen.
10. Auburn, (C-): Auburn is a running back factory so you know they are okay there with Michael Dyer and Onterio McCalebb. Lutzenkirchen is a quality tight end but other than that it doesn't look good. Who knows about Barrett Trotter at QB, or who will be the QB? Overall, 3 returning starters from last years SEC Championship team, and this offense will have 5-6 freshman and sophomores starting. I don't know if their O-line will be able to keep defenders from hitting their quality backfield behind the line of scrimmage. It looks bad on paper, but I'm sure Gus Malzahn will make the most of what he's got.
11. Vanderbilt, (D+): Vanderbilt has all 11 starters back including their top 4 rushers. I want to get excited about how good they could be but then I have to remember that it's Vandy...this same group was last in the SEC by a good margin in 2010. Larry Smith isn't that good but he is a senior and 3-year starter. They've got a good TE in Brandon Barden and good running backs. They may not score all the time but I think they are good enough to keep Vandy in some games.
12. Kentucky (D+): They've got 8 of their top 10 offensive lineman back but they lost a lot of talent in other areas like Randall Cobb, Mike Hartline, Derrick Locke, and Chris Matthews who quietly caught 61 passes for 925 yards. Morgan Newton has big shoes to fill in the long line of really good Kentucky quarterbacks, but he has the specs being 6'-4" and 235. They were in the top half of the SEC last year, but I'm not so sure they can match that production again.
JB
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Confidence
A lot of what you make in life is about confidence. Generally, most successful people are very confident. It is a hard thing to achieve at times, and once you have it, it can be shattered and you have to start over again to regain it. But confidence is very important to have for your success in life and your self-esteem.
Confidence means a lot in business. A salesman who is not confident or appear confident can lead the consumer to believe they are unsure about themselves or what they are selling. If you are not confident in the job you are doing, there is not much of a chance that the person who is paying you to do that job will want you to continue.
Everyone's attitude towards you is more positive when you are confident in yourself. Women are attracted to confident guys. He might not be good looking at all, he may not be that cool, or have much going for him at all, but if he is confident then she will like him. If you aren't confident, people aren't that interested in you, but if you are then people want to know more about you and be your friend.
Bottom line, confidence is key. In business, in sports, social interaction, dealing with different things that come up in your life. It is important to stay confident and believe in yourself, and if you can't do that you better get on your knees and pray for some confidence because it is important to your success in life.
JB
Confidence means a lot in business. A salesman who is not confident or appear confident can lead the consumer to believe they are unsure about themselves or what they are selling. If you are not confident in the job you are doing, there is not much of a chance that the person who is paying you to do that job will want you to continue.
Everyone's attitude towards you is more positive when you are confident in yourself. Women are attracted to confident guys. He might not be good looking at all, he may not be that cool, or have much going for him at all, but if he is confident then she will like him. If you aren't confident, people aren't that interested in you, but if you are then people want to know more about you and be your friend.
Bottom line, confidence is key. In business, in sports, social interaction, dealing with different things that come up in your life. It is important to stay confident and believe in yourself, and if you can't do that you better get on your knees and pray for some confidence because it is important to your success in life.
JB
Monday, July 25, 2011
Stages of Grief
I think most people have heard about the 5, or 7 stages of grief. I think they are important to remember when someone has lost a loved one, or some other tragedy or circumstance has entered their life. I think it is most important for the caregiver in the scenario to recognize these stages, if not, frustration and lack of understanding will set in as you wait for the person to get over the event. So when bad things happen, remember that a person must go through these stages, and by helping them do so they can move on with their life.
1. Shock & Denial - When something bad happens there is a tendency to desire to do something else so you don't have to think about it. Watching a movie, a sporting event, or some other activity that you give all your thought to for a time period is where most people turn. The more mature the individual the faster they will get out of this stage, and it is important to not let denial last too long. But it could last a couple hours, a couple days or a couple weeks depending on the circumstances of the situation.
2. Pain & Guilt - This is the time of suffering. A very sad period in a person's life, and they may ask God, 'what did I do to deserve this?' This is when a person feels sorry for themselves. And like denial, it is important for this stage not to last too long, but there is a high chance it will last much longer than denial.
3. Anger - This is when those questions towards God turn to 'Why Me?'. Things don't seem fair and it doesn't seem like God is looking out for you...otherwise why would this have happened? This is a dangerous step, one where many people turn their back on God. I think it's important that this stage is very brief.
4. Bargaining - This stage is basically just asking God to restore your life prior to this event, and you would give up something else or do something you should be doing in exchange. But there's no bargaining with God, and helping a grieving person understand that God has a reason for everything that happens will help them move on to the next stage.
5. Depression & Loneliness - There's a point after you've been sad for a while, you've been angry, and now you're just depressed. You're tired of being sad but you can't get happy. You feel like no one else understands what you're going through. This can be a dangerous stage, but it's one that will always take place. It's important to recognize it and then help that person out of it with the next stage.
6. Reconstruction - Rebuilding your life with the reality that the bad event has taken place, and you must live with it. Trying to deal with the obstacles that are presented without getting sad, angry, or depressed.
7. Acceptance - This is the goal for the entire process...and this is where everyone eventually gets to over varying amounts of time. If they cannot get there, they end up a recluse..but I think that is rare as most people want to get to this stage. Being able to move on with your life, accepting the fact the event has taken place and living with it. I believe faith in God's plan is the key to having satisfying acceptance of these bad situations that take place.
Knowing these seven stages are important to helping others or yourself with the grieving process. Just recognizes what stage a person is in and that they need to go through that stage can help a caregiver tremendously. It doesn't always stay in this order, they may go back to denial for a little bit when you thought they were at bargaining, but I think this order is a general rule of thumb for dealing with the downturns in our lives.
JB
1. Shock & Denial - When something bad happens there is a tendency to desire to do something else so you don't have to think about it. Watching a movie, a sporting event, or some other activity that you give all your thought to for a time period is where most people turn. The more mature the individual the faster they will get out of this stage, and it is important to not let denial last too long. But it could last a couple hours, a couple days or a couple weeks depending on the circumstances of the situation.
2. Pain & Guilt - This is the time of suffering. A very sad period in a person's life, and they may ask God, 'what did I do to deserve this?' This is when a person feels sorry for themselves. And like denial, it is important for this stage not to last too long, but there is a high chance it will last much longer than denial.
3. Anger - This is when those questions towards God turn to 'Why Me?'. Things don't seem fair and it doesn't seem like God is looking out for you...otherwise why would this have happened? This is a dangerous step, one where many people turn their back on God. I think it's important that this stage is very brief.
4. Bargaining - This stage is basically just asking God to restore your life prior to this event, and you would give up something else or do something you should be doing in exchange. But there's no bargaining with God, and helping a grieving person understand that God has a reason for everything that happens will help them move on to the next stage.
5. Depression & Loneliness - There's a point after you've been sad for a while, you've been angry, and now you're just depressed. You're tired of being sad but you can't get happy. You feel like no one else understands what you're going through. This can be a dangerous stage, but it's one that will always take place. It's important to recognize it and then help that person out of it with the next stage.
6. Reconstruction - Rebuilding your life with the reality that the bad event has taken place, and you must live with it. Trying to deal with the obstacles that are presented without getting sad, angry, or depressed.
7. Acceptance - This is the goal for the entire process...and this is where everyone eventually gets to over varying amounts of time. If they cannot get there, they end up a recluse..but I think that is rare as most people want to get to this stage. Being able to move on with your life, accepting the fact the event has taken place and living with it. I believe faith in God's plan is the key to having satisfying acceptance of these bad situations that take place.
Knowing these seven stages are important to helping others or yourself with the grieving process. Just recognizes what stage a person is in and that they need to go through that stage can help a caregiver tremendously. It doesn't always stay in this order, they may go back to denial for a little bit when you thought they were at bargaining, but I think this order is a general rule of thumb for dealing with the downturns in our lives.
JB
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Duran Duran
My Top 10 Duran Duran songs:
10. "All You Need is Now", 2010
9. "Notorious", 1986
8. "What Happens Tomorrow", 2005
7. "Hungry Like the Wolf", 1982
6. "Is There Something I Should Know?", 1983
5. "Rio", 1982
4. "Girls on Film", 1981
3. "Come Undone", 1993
2. "The Reflex", 1984
1. "Ordinary World", 1993
JB
10. "All You Need is Now", 2010
9. "Notorious", 1986
8. "What Happens Tomorrow", 2005
7. "Hungry Like the Wolf", 1982
6. "Is There Something I Should Know?", 1983
5. "Rio", 1982
4. "Girls on Film", 1981
3. "Come Undone", 1993
2. "The Reflex", 1984
1. "Ordinary World", 1993
JB
Friday, July 22, 2011
The South
The southeastern United States is the greatest place on earth. Well, I have to imagine it to be that way. I've been as far west as Arizona, south as Mexico, and north as Boston. But the television brings me to other parts of the world and U.S., so I at least have some idea about them.
I love being from the South, people here talk the way I like, they believe in what I believe in, they do things I like to do. People up north or out west can live and do whatever they want to, but it ain't for me. I like sweet tea, college football, and warm weather.
When you look at a map of the United States on election night all the states in the southeast are red. All the states in the northeast are blue. The rest of the map is kind of scattered but we pretty much know how each state out there will vote with the exception of a few. Think about how far apart the states are. The distance from Alabama to New York is like England to Russia. How different are the Russians and the British? About as different as folks in Alabama and folks in New York.
Basically what I'm saying is the United States is a huge place and people in one area of the country are distinctly different from people in other areas. That is why state's rights are so important. And if the federal government and/or judicial system is going to make decisions for the entire country then maybe the south should secede from the Union.
JB
I love being from the South, people here talk the way I like, they believe in what I believe in, they do things I like to do. People up north or out west can live and do whatever they want to, but it ain't for me. I like sweet tea, college football, and warm weather.
When you look at a map of the United States on election night all the states in the southeast are red. All the states in the northeast are blue. The rest of the map is kind of scattered but we pretty much know how each state out there will vote with the exception of a few. Think about how far apart the states are. The distance from Alabama to New York is like England to Russia. How different are the Russians and the British? About as different as folks in Alabama and folks in New York.
Basically what I'm saying is the United States is a huge place and people in one area of the country are distinctly different from people in other areas. That is why state's rights are so important. And if the federal government and/or judicial system is going to make decisions for the entire country then maybe the south should secede from the Union.
JB
Thursday, July 21, 2011
SEC Media Days
The SEC Media Days are going on right now. What that means is that it's time to kick that college football excitement into overdrive.
I'm ready to just talk about football, but one of the hot topics is all the cheating going on. I've addressed it numerous times on the blog, and I believe that with the big business of college football today cheating is going to happen because the stakes are so high.
The problem with the NCAA enforcement is that there are no criminal ramifications for cheating. They can investigate, but the NCAA cannot force anyone to give them information. It's not like a court of law where they can get a warrant to look for evidence. You have to screw up real bad to get caught.
But I'm ready for football, so no more of this off the field junk. And since the excitement has been kicked into overdrive, expect more football from the blog as well.
JB
I'm ready to just talk about football, but one of the hot topics is all the cheating going on. I've addressed it numerous times on the blog, and I believe that with the big business of college football today cheating is going to happen because the stakes are so high.
The problem with the NCAA enforcement is that there are no criminal ramifications for cheating. They can investigate, but the NCAA cannot force anyone to give them information. It's not like a court of law where they can get a warrant to look for evidence. You have to screw up real bad to get caught.
But I'm ready for football, so no more of this off the field junk. And since the excitement has been kicked into overdrive, expect more football from the blog as well.
JB
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Best Defenses in the SEC
1. Alabama, (A+): Bama's D will be similar to the 2009 team, they are loaded everywhere. The D-line is probably the weakest, but not too weak with experience coming back even though they lost Marcell Dareus. They are stacked at linebacker with Courtney Upshaw, Nico Johnson, Dont'a Hightower, and C.J. Mosley. And their secondary has got to be the best in the country with all four returning starters including Mark Barron and Robert Lester, and then 5-star recruit Dre' Kirkpatrick at CB. It will not be easy to score on the Tide.
2. South Carolina, (A): The Gamecocks are stacked at defensive line. They have two excellent true freshman coming in with Jadeveon Clowney and Kelcy Quarles and Clowney was the #1 player in the country for the 2011 recruiting class and Quarles is a 4-star so they should step right in. Devin Taylor, Melvin Ingram, Travian Robertson are all picked to be All-SEC players so there is a big gap between this D-line and every other in the SEC. They get their leading tackler from '09 back from injury in Shaq Wilson at linebacker. Stephon Gilmore is a great cover corner and should be 1st team all-SEC, including him they have 3 out of 4 returning from the secondary, but do have 4-star Sheldon Royster coming in at safety as a true freshman.
3. LSU, (A-): LSU loses their three best defensive players in Drake Nevis, Kelvin Shephard, and Patrick Peterson. Still, they stockpile talent in Baton Rouge and have 6 returning starters on this defense. The D-line is always a strength for LSU and they have both ends returning, I'm sure they can find guys for the inside including 5-star recruit Anthony Johnson. They return 5 of their top 6 linebackers from 2010, and the secondary is loaded with talent with Morris Claiborne leading the way. If they can overcome the leadership they lost from '10 this D could be even better.
4. Florida, (B+): Janoris Jenkins was one of the best DBs in the SEC, but he was dismissed from the team in the offseason. Still, this is going to be a good defense under new Will Muschamp. Jaye Howard is my #1 DT, and Jelani Jenkins and Jon Bostic are very good linebackers. They've only got four returning starters but with all the talent coming back from a young team last year, and Muschamp's coaching, I think this will be a feared D.
5. Mississippi State, (B): Josh Boyd and Fletcher Cox anchor the D-line and make up possibly the best tackle combo in the conference. There looks to be enough depth at defensive end to ease the hole left by Pernell McPhee. The biggest question for everyone is at linebacker, were all three starters left including two NFL draft picks. State does have Brandon Maye, transfer from Clemson, coming in that should plug one of those holes, and the other two remain to be seen. The secondary should be one of the best in the SEC with all four returning starters.
6. Arkansas, (B): The Hogs have seven returning starters to a middle of the road defense in 2010. They've got my #1 DE Jake Bequette, but they will be anchored by their linebackers, mainly Jerry Franklin and Jerico Nelson. I think they've got an adequate defense to supplement their explosive offense, and the D will probably look better than they are if the offense meets expectation.
7. Tennessee, (B-): The D-line should be pretty good, they only have one returning starter on that unit but the three guys coming in are all 4-star recruits who are now sophomores. The linebackers should be the weak spot with one returning starter. The secondary has everyone coming back and should be the strong point. I think this will be a better defense then last year's mediocre one.
8. Georgia, (C+): Georgia had the #4 defense in the SEC last year, but they lose two 3rd round NFL draft picks in Justin Houston (who had 1st round talent) and Akeem Dent off their linebacking corps. It's the Dawgs second year under Todd Grantham and the 3-4 scheme and they return their entire secondary. Back-to-back games vs. Top 10 teams to start the year is really going to put the load on this group.
9. Kentucky, (C+): Danny Travathan had almost 20 tackles more than anyone else in the league last year, but perhaps that was because the D-line let everyone through. This wasn't a great group last year but they do return 10 starters so you would have to think they will improve on experience alone. The secondary should be good returning all 4 starters on a pass defense that was 4th in the SEC. This D should be better.
10. Vanderbilt, (C-): Vandy has 8 returning starters including stand-out linebacker Chris Marve, but when you're not as talented as the rest of the SEC that doesn't necessarily compute to a stellar defense. I've got to think that with senior leadership and the excitement of a new coach they will turn things around from the worst D in the league last year.
11. Auburn, (C-): Nick Fairley was a beast last year, he kept Auburn's D from blowing their SEC and National Titles hopes by playing out of his mind. But he's gone and so are seven other players from 9th rated defense in the SEC last year. Neiko Thorpe is the only projected starter that is a senior. If they can get some help from some highly touted recruits then it might be ok, but they will be thrown into the fire early and often.
12. Ole Miss, (D): Kendrell Lockett is my #2 DE in the SEC, outside of that this group is no good. As long as teams double team Lockett there should be no trouble getting through the line, the linebackers are very young, and the bright spot will be the secondary which is a little more experienced but still not that great. Unless there's some kind of big surprise, this has got to be it for Tyrone Nix.
JB
2. South Carolina, (A): The Gamecocks are stacked at defensive line. They have two excellent true freshman coming in with Jadeveon Clowney and Kelcy Quarles and Clowney was the #1 player in the country for the 2011 recruiting class and Quarles is a 4-star so they should step right in. Devin Taylor, Melvin Ingram, Travian Robertson are all picked to be All-SEC players so there is a big gap between this D-line and every other in the SEC. They get their leading tackler from '09 back from injury in Shaq Wilson at linebacker. Stephon Gilmore is a great cover corner and should be 1st team all-SEC, including him they have 3 out of 4 returning from the secondary, but do have 4-star Sheldon Royster coming in at safety as a true freshman.
3. LSU, (A-): LSU loses their three best defensive players in Drake Nevis, Kelvin Shephard, and Patrick Peterson. Still, they stockpile talent in Baton Rouge and have 6 returning starters on this defense. The D-line is always a strength for LSU and they have both ends returning, I'm sure they can find guys for the inside including 5-star recruit Anthony Johnson. They return 5 of their top 6 linebackers from 2010, and the secondary is loaded with talent with Morris Claiborne leading the way. If they can overcome the leadership they lost from '10 this D could be even better.
4. Florida, (B+): Janoris Jenkins was one of the best DBs in the SEC, but he was dismissed from the team in the offseason. Still, this is going to be a good defense under new Will Muschamp. Jaye Howard is my #1 DT, and Jelani Jenkins and Jon Bostic are very good linebackers. They've only got four returning starters but with all the talent coming back from a young team last year, and Muschamp's coaching, I think this will be a feared D.
5. Mississippi State, (B): Josh Boyd and Fletcher Cox anchor the D-line and make up possibly the best tackle combo in the conference. There looks to be enough depth at defensive end to ease the hole left by Pernell McPhee. The biggest question for everyone is at linebacker, were all three starters left including two NFL draft picks. State does have Brandon Maye, transfer from Clemson, coming in that should plug one of those holes, and the other two remain to be seen. The secondary should be one of the best in the SEC with all four returning starters.
6. Arkansas, (B): The Hogs have seven returning starters to a middle of the road defense in 2010. They've got my #1 DE Jake Bequette, but they will be anchored by their linebackers, mainly Jerry Franklin and Jerico Nelson. I think they've got an adequate defense to supplement their explosive offense, and the D will probably look better than they are if the offense meets expectation.
7. Tennessee, (B-): The D-line should be pretty good, they only have one returning starter on that unit but the three guys coming in are all 4-star recruits who are now sophomores. The linebackers should be the weak spot with one returning starter. The secondary has everyone coming back and should be the strong point. I think this will be a better defense then last year's mediocre one.
8. Georgia, (C+): Georgia had the #4 defense in the SEC last year, but they lose two 3rd round NFL draft picks in Justin Houston (who had 1st round talent) and Akeem Dent off their linebacking corps. It's the Dawgs second year under Todd Grantham and the 3-4 scheme and they return their entire secondary. Back-to-back games vs. Top 10 teams to start the year is really going to put the load on this group.
9. Kentucky, (C+): Danny Travathan had almost 20 tackles more than anyone else in the league last year, but perhaps that was because the D-line let everyone through. This wasn't a great group last year but they do return 10 starters so you would have to think they will improve on experience alone. The secondary should be good returning all 4 starters on a pass defense that was 4th in the SEC. This D should be better.
10. Vanderbilt, (C-): Vandy has 8 returning starters including stand-out linebacker Chris Marve, but when you're not as talented as the rest of the SEC that doesn't necessarily compute to a stellar defense. I've got to think that with senior leadership and the excitement of a new coach they will turn things around from the worst D in the league last year.
11. Auburn, (C-): Nick Fairley was a beast last year, he kept Auburn's D from blowing their SEC and National Titles hopes by playing out of his mind. But he's gone and so are seven other players from 9th rated defense in the SEC last year. Neiko Thorpe is the only projected starter that is a senior. If they can get some help from some highly touted recruits then it might be ok, but they will be thrown into the fire early and often.
12. Ole Miss, (D): Kendrell Lockett is my #2 DE in the SEC, outside of that this group is no good. As long as teams double team Lockett there should be no trouble getting through the line, the linebackers are very young, and the bright spot will be the secondary which is a little more experienced but still not that great. Unless there's some kind of big surprise, this has got to be it for Tyrone Nix.
JB
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Pay for Play in College Football 2
I would like to change my stance a little with regards to my April 28th post.
I still think that paying elite players a portion of the profits made from their jersey sales while they are in school is a good idea. But with regards to saying other football players should just stick to a scholarship, I have changed my mind a little bit.
I think each player should get $500/month more than any other athlete on campus. There is Title IX, but here is how I argue that. College football players are public figures. If they make a mistake, it is played out on radio and TV. I think that takes some of the 'amateur' out of what they are doing. Add to the fact that college football provides money to all the other sports, allowing them to have scholarships, and to make all that money football players basically have a full-time, year-round job. So I think Title IX should be waived in this instance.
If you pay 85 players $500 per month for 12 months, that is $510,000...I think that is affordable. I also think walk-ons should receive that same benefit. So that's probably another $50-75K. I think this is a good solution, and maybe it would stop some cheating as well.
JB
I still think that paying elite players a portion of the profits made from their jersey sales while they are in school is a good idea. But with regards to saying other football players should just stick to a scholarship, I have changed my mind a little bit.
I think each player should get $500/month more than any other athlete on campus. There is Title IX, but here is how I argue that. College football players are public figures. If they make a mistake, it is played out on radio and TV. I think that takes some of the 'amateur' out of what they are doing. Add to the fact that college football provides money to all the other sports, allowing them to have scholarships, and to make all that money football players basically have a full-time, year-round job. So I think Title IX should be waived in this instance.
If you pay 85 players $500 per month for 12 months, that is $510,000...I think that is affordable. I also think walk-ons should receive that same benefit. So that's probably another $50-75K. I think this is a good solution, and maybe it would stop some cheating as well.
JB
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Best & Worst Sports Months
July is such a terrible sports month...so that got me thinking, which are the best and which are the worst sports month...maybe I should rank them. So I will..from best to worst..
1. October - This is easily the best. You've got the baseball playoffs, college football, the NFL, and I guess you've even got preseason NBA.
2. November - The World Series may or may not be finishing up in very early November, but you've still got the home stretch of college football, NFL, the start of the NBA season, and college basketball is kicking around.
3. December - There's college football conference championship games, and then the lesser bowl games towards the end of the month, playoff race in the NFL, NBA regular season, and a little more noise from college basketball.
4. September - Start of college football and NFL, and down the stretch in major league baseball.
5. January - The month starts off nicely with big time bowl games, then you've got the NFL playoffs, and conference play begins in college basketball. Somewhere in the background there's regular season NBA and the Australian Open.
6. March - March Madness. Spring Training in baseball, Spring practice in college football, and NBA teams making their move in the regular season.
7. April - The Final Four, start of the MLB regular season, NFL draft, The Masters, NBA playoffs start, and college baseball regular season from afar.
8. August - Baseball, NFL preseason, college football training camp, PGA Championship, & U.S. Open (tennis).
9. June - The NBA Finals, The U.S. Open, baseball regular season, Wimbledon, College Baseball tournament and World Series...NBA draft.
10. May - The NBA playoffs, hockey playoffs if you're into it, and baseball....the French Open too I guess.
11. February - First week of the month you've got the Superbowl, a couple weeks later there's the Daytona 500, and college basketball is getting more exciting.
12. July - Baseball, British Open.
JB
1. October - This is easily the best. You've got the baseball playoffs, college football, the NFL, and I guess you've even got preseason NBA.
2. November - The World Series may or may not be finishing up in very early November, but you've still got the home stretch of college football, NFL, the start of the NBA season, and college basketball is kicking around.
3. December - There's college football conference championship games, and then the lesser bowl games towards the end of the month, playoff race in the NFL, NBA regular season, and a little more noise from college basketball.
4. September - Start of college football and NFL, and down the stretch in major league baseball.
5. January - The month starts off nicely with big time bowl games, then you've got the NFL playoffs, and conference play begins in college basketball. Somewhere in the background there's regular season NBA and the Australian Open.
6. March - March Madness. Spring Training in baseball, Spring practice in college football, and NBA teams making their move in the regular season.
7. April - The Final Four, start of the MLB regular season, NFL draft, The Masters, NBA playoffs start, and college baseball regular season from afar.
8. August - Baseball, NFL preseason, college football training camp, PGA Championship, & U.S. Open (tennis).
9. June - The NBA Finals, The U.S. Open, baseball regular season, Wimbledon, College Baseball tournament and World Series...NBA draft.
10. May - The NBA playoffs, hockey playoffs if you're into it, and baseball....the French Open too I guess.
11. February - First week of the month you've got the Superbowl, a couple weeks later there's the Daytona 500, and college basketball is getting more exciting.
12. July - Baseball, British Open.
JB
Saturday, July 16, 2011
British Open
Somehow the United States has been able to veer all major tournaments to America with the exception of this one...the Open Championship. It's the oldest of the four majors, and probably my least favorite.
It's weird to see players in wind breakers and looking cold while we are miserable in 100 degree temperatures in the States. But the wind is the main reason a lot of people enjoy this major. But for me, it's hard to watch since it's on in the morning, and it's easily forgettable. Not to mention it seems like there is hardly anyone attending the event. It's hard to get excited about it when there looks to be one tenth the amount of people there as any other major.
JB
It's weird to see players in wind breakers and looking cold while we are miserable in 100 degree temperatures in the States. But the wind is the main reason a lot of people enjoy this major. But for me, it's hard to watch since it's on in the morning, and it's easily forgettable. Not to mention it seems like there is hardly anyone attending the event. It's hard to get excited about it when there looks to be one tenth the amount of people there as any other major.
JB
Friday, July 15, 2011
Avocado
The avocado is a great food. It has become more and more popular recently and for good reason. It brings great flavor to everything it is paired with!
The avocado is actually a fruit, but I like to use it like a vegetable similar to tomato, onion, or lettuce. Just slice up the avocado and put it on a burger, a sandwich, an omelet, or anything and it really livens up the flavor.
Of course the prime use of the avocado is for guacamole, and I really enjoy that too. I've already posted meals with avocado in them on December 27th and May 29th, because I've been enjoying it for a while now.
JB
The avocado is actually a fruit, but I like to use it like a vegetable similar to tomato, onion, or lettuce. Just slice up the avocado and put it on a burger, a sandwich, an omelet, or anything and it really livens up the flavor.
Of course the prime use of the avocado is for guacamole, and I really enjoy that too. I've already posted meals with avocado in them on December 27th and May 29th, because I've been enjoying it for a while now.
JB
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Top Units in the SEC
This is the anatomy of an upset: a team with a really good record comes into a game against a team that has a much lesser record. But that good team has a suspect defensive line and that poor team has a decent offensive line and that translates into the QB having all day to throw and what seemed like an easy win turns into an upset. It all comes down to matchups.
So here are my top units for offense and defense around the SEC:
Quarterback:
1. Georgia
2. Mississippi State
3. South Carolina
4. Tennessee
5. Arkansas
6. Florida
7. LSU
8. Alabama
9. Kentucky
10. Auburn
11. Ole Miss
12. Vanderbilt
Backfield:
1. Alabama
2. Auburn
3. South Carolina
4. Mississippi State
5. Ole Miss
6. Arkansas
7. Tennessee
8. Florida
9. Georgia
10. Vanderbilt
11. LSU
12. Kentucky
Receivers:
1. Arkansas
2. South Carolina
3. LSU
4. Mississippi State
5. Florida
6. Alabama
7. Georgia
8. Auburn
9. Vanderbilt
10. Ole Miss
11. Tennessee
12. Kentucky
Offensive Line:
1. Alabama
2. Ole Miss
3. LSU
4. Kentucky
5. Mississippi State
6. Georgia
7. South Carolina
8. Vanderbilt
9. Arkansas
10. Tennessee
11. Florida
12. Auburn
_____________
Defensive Line:
1. South Carolina
2. Florida
3. Alabama
4. LSU
5. Mississippi State
6. Georgia
7. Arkansas
8. Tennessee
9. Ole Miss
10. Auburn
11. Vanderbilt
12. Kentucky
Linebackers:
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Arkansas
4. LSU
5. Kentucky
6. South Carolina
7. Mississippi State
8. Georgia
9. Vanderbilt
10. Auburn
11. Ole Miss
12. Tennessee
Secondary:
1. Alabama
2. Mississippi State
3. LSU
4. Georgia
5. Tennessee
6. Florida
7. Kentucky
8. Arkansas
9. South Carolina
10. Vanderbilt
11. Ole Miss
12. Auburn
Special Teams:
1. Georgia
2. Alabama
3. Vanderbilt
4. Tennessee
5. Arkansas
6. Kentucky
7. Florida
8. Ole Miss
9. Mississippi State
10. Auburn
11. LSU
12. South Carolina
JB
So here are my top units for offense and defense around the SEC:
Quarterback:
1. Georgia
2. Mississippi State
3. South Carolina
4. Tennessee
5. Arkansas
6. Florida
7. LSU
8. Alabama
9. Kentucky
10. Auburn
11. Ole Miss
12. Vanderbilt
Backfield:
1. Alabama
2. Auburn
3. South Carolina
4. Mississippi State
5. Ole Miss
6. Arkansas
7. Tennessee
8. Florida
9. Georgia
10. Vanderbilt
11. LSU
12. Kentucky
Receivers:
1. Arkansas
2. South Carolina
3. LSU
4. Mississippi State
5. Florida
6. Alabama
7. Georgia
8. Auburn
9. Vanderbilt
10. Ole Miss
11. Tennessee
12. Kentucky
Offensive Line:
1. Alabama
2. Ole Miss
3. LSU
4. Kentucky
5. Mississippi State
6. Georgia
7. South Carolina
8. Vanderbilt
9. Arkansas
10. Tennessee
11. Florida
12. Auburn
_____________
Defensive Line:
1. South Carolina
2. Florida
3. Alabama
4. LSU
5. Mississippi State
6. Georgia
7. Arkansas
8. Tennessee
9. Ole Miss
10. Auburn
11. Vanderbilt
12. Kentucky
Linebackers:
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Arkansas
4. LSU
5. Kentucky
6. South Carolina
7. Mississippi State
8. Georgia
9. Vanderbilt
10. Auburn
11. Ole Miss
12. Tennessee
Secondary:
1. Alabama
2. Mississippi State
3. LSU
4. Georgia
5. Tennessee
6. Florida
7. Kentucky
8. Arkansas
9. South Carolina
10. Vanderbilt
11. Ole Miss
12. Auburn
Special Teams:
1. Georgia
2. Alabama
3. Vanderbilt
4. Tennessee
5. Arkansas
6. Kentucky
7. Florida
8. Ole Miss
9. Mississippi State
10. Auburn
11. LSU
12. South Carolina
JB
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Cheating in College Football
Right now, cheating in college football appears to be out of hand. I'm not sure it's worse than it's ever been, but it seems to be all over the place.
The main problem is that cheating is not illegal in the criminal system, so no punishment will really hurt a player, coach, or program as bad as it would in the business world. The NCAA takes way too long to investigate these matters. As soon as any suspicions arise, investigators should be beating down the door to get to the root of it. A verdict should come about quickly and then punish whoever is responsible. College football is big business, if there aren't enough investigators, then up the dues.
I'm sure that some programs weigh the cost of cheating and figure it's probably worth it. If Auburn paid Cam Newton $200,000, don't you think they made that money back 100 fold by winning the national championship? From a business sense, I would say that is a sound investment, especially since you can't go to jail for it. They can strip the national title and put them on probation for a couple years, but Auburn fans still have the t-shirt and memories. And Auburn still has the $20 million which they can build new stuff with to attract recruits within the rules. What a deal.
The death penalty was pretty harsh, but there has to be a way to curb cheating. For one, Jim Tressel shouldn't have been forced to resign by Ohio State, the NCAA should have forced it...and fined him $1 million. Investigators should be swooping down on Oregon right now and have a verdict within a month that would either clear Chip Kelly or not, and if it's the ladder he should be terminated and fined. Quick, stern action...that's what has to be done.
JB
The main problem is that cheating is not illegal in the criminal system, so no punishment will really hurt a player, coach, or program as bad as it would in the business world. The NCAA takes way too long to investigate these matters. As soon as any suspicions arise, investigators should be beating down the door to get to the root of it. A verdict should come about quickly and then punish whoever is responsible. College football is big business, if there aren't enough investigators, then up the dues.
I'm sure that some programs weigh the cost of cheating and figure it's probably worth it. If Auburn paid Cam Newton $200,000, don't you think they made that money back 100 fold by winning the national championship? From a business sense, I would say that is a sound investment, especially since you can't go to jail for it. They can strip the national title and put them on probation for a couple years, but Auburn fans still have the t-shirt and memories. And Auburn still has the $20 million which they can build new stuff with to attract recruits within the rules. What a deal.
The death penalty was pretty harsh, but there has to be a way to curb cheating. For one, Jim Tressel shouldn't have been forced to resign by Ohio State, the NCAA should have forced it...and fined him $1 million. Investigators should be swooping down on Oregon right now and have a verdict within a month that would either clear Chip Kelly or not, and if it's the ladder he should be terminated and fined. Quick, stern action...that's what has to be done.
JB
Monday, July 11, 2011
Living Off Your Parents
There are a lot of people I see that live off their parents for way too long. I just don't think this is acceptable. Parents raise their children, and at age 18 that child should be ready to take care of themselves. Most people, including myself, rely on their parents to get through college...and that is fine. But their comes a time, and that time is graduation from college when it's time to cut the chord.
With today's poor economy, I can't blame anyone for moving in with their parents to either save money or out of necessity since they lost their job. But there's a difference between moving in with your parents and living off your parents...and that difference is money.
When you leave school and step into the world, you should pay all of your bills. That means groceries, insurance, cell phone, gas, etc. If you graduate from college and you can't find a job, then get a temporary one at the hardware store and pay your own bills even if you still live under your parent's roof. How can anyone feel like they are worth their salt if their parents still pay their medical or car insurance?
I just don't think you are respecting yourself or your parents if they are paying bills you should be paying for yourself...especially into your mid-late 20s, heaven forbid 30s. If you fall on hard times and they help you out, that is fine. But if you are spending your money going out to eat and are borrowing to pay the electric bill? And if you are married and you let your parents keep paying any bills at all, then you are just despicable.
JB
With today's poor economy, I can't blame anyone for moving in with their parents to either save money or out of necessity since they lost their job. But there's a difference between moving in with your parents and living off your parents...and that difference is money.
When you leave school and step into the world, you should pay all of your bills. That means groceries, insurance, cell phone, gas, etc. If you graduate from college and you can't find a job, then get a temporary one at the hardware store and pay your own bills even if you still live under your parent's roof. How can anyone feel like they are worth their salt if their parents still pay their medical or car insurance?
I just don't think you are respecting yourself or your parents if they are paying bills you should be paying for yourself...especially into your mid-late 20s, heaven forbid 30s. If you fall on hard times and they help you out, that is fine. But if you are spending your money going out to eat and are borrowing to pay the electric bill? And if you are married and you let your parents keep paying any bills at all, then you are just despicable.
JB
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Pitching in Baseball
Throughout the 1990s, and especially in the late 90s, hitting was everything in baseball. Of course, that was the 'steroid era' and balls were flying out of the ballpark at record pace. And even in college baseball there was a final score of 21-14 in the national championship game between USC and Arizona State. That has done a complete 180 over the last 10 years and now pitching dominates.
They changed the bats in college baseball so that there is less barrel on them and that has really changed the way the game is played. In the major leagues, league ERAs are as low as they've been in 30 years. Every team has good pitchers, hardly any teams have multiple players hitting over .300. When you look at a hitter's batting average, you have to say .250 is what used to be .285, and 20 home runs is what used to be 30.
What caused this shift? Is is all steroids? I don't really believe it is all steroids, although that is a major role, for one because some pitchers took them as well during that era. I once heard long time Braves announcer Pete Van Wieren say that baseball way cyclical, for a few years pitching dominates so franchises draft and develop hitters. Then hitters dominate and franchises draft and develop pitchers and so on and so forth.
Reason #1: Steroids. Reason #2: Emphasis on more pitching. Reason #3: In the late 90s baseball was too thinned out. They had just added four more expansion teams within 5 years and their were pitchers in the big leagues who should have been in AAA. Now, the population has grown and there are enough big league pitchers to cover the major league requirement. Reason #4: The strike zone is bigger. They got rid of quez-tech and the umpires are calling the borderline pitches strikes.
I enjoy watching a well-pitched baseball game. A home run is cool, but there can be home runs in a 3-2 game just like an 8-6 game. A well-pitched game is faster, and more exciting as runs are hard to come by. So overall, I think baseball is better off with pitching dominating...but it will change again.
JB
They changed the bats in college baseball so that there is less barrel on them and that has really changed the way the game is played. In the major leagues, league ERAs are as low as they've been in 30 years. Every team has good pitchers, hardly any teams have multiple players hitting over .300. When you look at a hitter's batting average, you have to say .250 is what used to be .285, and 20 home runs is what used to be 30.
What caused this shift? Is is all steroids? I don't really believe it is all steroids, although that is a major role, for one because some pitchers took them as well during that era. I once heard long time Braves announcer Pete Van Wieren say that baseball way cyclical, for a few years pitching dominates so franchises draft and develop hitters. Then hitters dominate and franchises draft and develop pitchers and so on and so forth.
Reason #1: Steroids. Reason #2: Emphasis on more pitching. Reason #3: In the late 90s baseball was too thinned out. They had just added four more expansion teams within 5 years and their were pitchers in the big leagues who should have been in AAA. Now, the population has grown and there are enough big league pitchers to cover the major league requirement. Reason #4: The strike zone is bigger. They got rid of quez-tech and the umpires are calling the borderline pitches strikes.
I enjoy watching a well-pitched baseball game. A home run is cool, but there can be home runs in a 3-2 game just like an 8-6 game. A well-pitched game is faster, and more exciting as runs are hard to come by. So overall, I think baseball is better off with pitching dominating...but it will change again.
JB
Friday, July 8, 2011
Dogs
Dogs are really great animals. I'm not a big fan of the small dogs that are like a ball of grease...the ones with the hair in their eyes. I don't really consider those dogs. Let's just say medium to large sized dogs are the best ones.
Every day I get home and my dog, Gus, greets me at the door. He wags his tail and is really happy to see me. Who, or what else would give you that kind of reception when you get home?
If your sick, he'll sit with you. If you want to go outside, he'll play with you. If you want to watch TV, he'll do that too. It doesn't matter what you're doing, he just wants to be with you.
Dogs are without a doubt the greatest pet you can have. That is just a fact.
JB
Every day I get home and my dog, Gus, greets me at the door. He wags his tail and is really happy to see me. Who, or what else would give you that kind of reception when you get home?
If your sick, he'll sit with you. If you want to go outside, he'll play with you. If you want to watch TV, he'll do that too. It doesn't matter what you're doing, he just wants to be with you.
Dogs are without a doubt the greatest pet you can have. That is just a fact.
JB
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
SEC Dominance
The SEC has always been a great football conference. And then came the BCS and the SEC is dominating. The BCS has existed for 13 years, 7 times the SEC has won it. In the last 20 years, there have been 9 SEC National Championships. Not just one team either: Florida (3), Alabama (2), LSU (2), Auburn (1), and Tennessee (1). And those numbers don't count Auburn going undefeated in 1993 and 2004.
With 5 straight BCS National Championships, pretty much everyone recognizes the SEC as the best conference. Not only has the SEC won the BCS with four different teams, but during that span of the last 5 years Georgia was rated preseason #1 as well, and Arkansas made it to a BCS game. So the only natural question for 2011 can't be will the SEC make it, but who from the SEC will make it?
No chance: Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Kentucky, Tennessee
A long shot: Auburn, Mississippi State, Georgia
If they catch some breaks: Arkansas, South Carolina, Florida, LSU
Best Chance: Alabama
This doesn't mean this is the way I'll be picking the season to go, but these are the teams, that based on their talent should be able to make noise this year.
JB
With 5 straight BCS National Championships, pretty much everyone recognizes the SEC as the best conference. Not only has the SEC won the BCS with four different teams, but during that span of the last 5 years Georgia was rated preseason #1 as well, and Arkansas made it to a BCS game. So the only natural question for 2011 can't be will the SEC make it, but who from the SEC will make it?
No chance: Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Kentucky, Tennessee
A long shot: Auburn, Mississippi State, Georgia
If they catch some breaks: Arkansas, South Carolina, Florida, LSU
Best Chance: Alabama
This doesn't mean this is the way I'll be picking the season to go, but these are the teams, that based on their talent should be able to make noise this year.
JB
Monday, July 4, 2011
Independence Day
There's nothing like the 4th of July. I'm certainly glad that America was created, becoming independent on this day 235 years ago. I think it's time many people living in this country take that word to heart: independence.
It's a great day to be an American. No matter how tough this economy has been, it's really just been an inconvenience because there are many many people in many many countries who would love to be going through a 'tough time' in America.
This is a great country, let's keep it that way.
JB
It's a great day to be an American. No matter how tough this economy has been, it's really just been an inconvenience because there are many many people in many many countries who would love to be going through a 'tough time' in America.
This is a great country, let's keep it that way.
JB
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