Over the last few months I've done work with several businesses, and they each say the same thing: "Obama's regulations are killing us".
They have new regulations hitting them all the time and it's forcing them to change the way they function. They need to increase their workforce to comply with new regulations to be able to get it done in the same about of time as it did before, but they can't because the demand isn't there to raise the cost of their product because the economy is so bad...so their workers are being stretched too thin. The regulations are killing them, and they've had good employees quit because it's gotten too stressful and difficult to keep up. Now they're in worse shape.
Small business runs this country. I work for a small business and I do 90% of my work for small businesses. We are being hit over the head with a baseball bat by Obama's policies. As an employer, it's hard to imagine anything more discouraging than Obama's attitude towards businesses.
Deregulation will allow for businesses to get back on track and not have to jump through hoops just to function. What's more, the amount of governmental overhead generated from these regulators is doing nothing more than throwing money down a rat hole.
Obama's main goal is to paint conservatives in a bad light, making people think we don't care for the poor. He points to business owners as wanting Republicans in office so they can get richer, but really they want Republicans in office so they can run their business without one hand tied behind their back.
Between the regulations, hefty taxes, increased insurance rates due to more OSHA and unnecessary restrictions, and the uncertainly Obamacare brings when it is fully implemented there is no room to expand a company.
Deregulation and tax cuts for small business will ignite the economy. Businesses will be able to operate more efficiently, and hire more people. There are jobs to be had out there, but Obama's barricades prevent businesses from growing and creating their own jobs. Instead, he'd rather create them through the government.
Private sector or government? Do we want the jobs in this country handed to us by the government, or should we do like we always have and thrive on capitalism and private business?
The choice is clear. Mitt Romney should be our next president.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
What Happens When A Christian Dies?
By Bryant Wright
"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words." - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV
There is confusion, and perhaps some concern, about the timing of when Christians receive their new bodies. Does it occur at the moment of death or is there a waiting period before they are issued? When a Christian dies, the physical body begins to decompose, but our spirit is immediately with the Lord in heaven. But when Christ is preparing for His return, there will be the rapture. While the word "rapture" itself doesn’t appear in Scripture, 1 Thessalonians 4:7 does talk about being “caught up together” (which is what the word "rapture" means). So, those who are alive when Christ comes will be joined in the clouds with those who have already died and are with the Lord. Those who have already died will, at that time, be given a resurrected body that is like Jesus’ body. Those who are Christian and alive here on earth will also receive a new body. It will be a body that will not get sick. It will not be contaminated by sin. It will be a new body like Jesus’ – a resurrected body that never dies. The bottom line: as best as I can tell, we receive our new bodies at the rapture, not the moment we die.
If you’re not a Christian, not sure if you die today your spirit will be in Heaven with the Lord, don’t wait any longer to be sure. You don’t want to miss out on Heaven and you don’t want to miss out on a new body that never gets sick and dies.
"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words." - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV
There is confusion, and perhaps some concern, about the timing of when Christians receive their new bodies. Does it occur at the moment of death or is there a waiting period before they are issued? When a Christian dies, the physical body begins to decompose, but our spirit is immediately with the Lord in heaven. But when Christ is preparing for His return, there will be the rapture. While the word "rapture" itself doesn’t appear in Scripture, 1 Thessalonians 4:7 does talk about being “caught up together” (which is what the word "rapture" means). So, those who are alive when Christ comes will be joined in the clouds with those who have already died and are with the Lord. Those who have already died will, at that time, be given a resurrected body that is like Jesus’ body. Those who are Christian and alive here on earth will also receive a new body. It will be a body that will not get sick. It will not be contaminated by sin. It will be a new body like Jesus’ – a resurrected body that never dies. The bottom line: as best as I can tell, we receive our new bodies at the rapture, not the moment we die.
If you’re not a Christian, not sure if you die today your spirit will be in Heaven with the Lord, don’t wait any longer to be sure. You don’t want to miss out on Heaven and you don’t want to miss out on a new body that never gets sick and dies.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Late October, Still Undefeated?
The Atlanta Falcons are 6-0, the only undefeated team in the NFL - their best start in franchise history.
Mississippi State is 7-0, one of only 11 college football teams still unbeaten - the 2nd best start in program history.
Wow, I can't believe it's this late in the year and neither of my favorite football teams have a mark against them!
Mississippi State is 7-0, one of only 11 college football teams still unbeaten - the 2nd best start in program history.
Wow, I can't believe it's this late in the year and neither of my favorite football teams have a mark against them!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Falcons, Braves, MSU
My favorite football teams are a combined 8-0! Mississippi State is 4-0 and the Falcons are 4-0. Wow, my teams are never this good. And to top it off, the Braves will be going into the playoffs this week.
Hopefully the Braves can win on Friday in the Wild Card playoff game and make a run in the playoffs. They have lost in the Division Series the last five times they've made it to the playoffs and haven't been to the NLCS since 2001...and the World Series since 1999.
I really think MSU can continue the undefeated streak and go 7-0 before going to Tuscaloosa. Kentucky should be pretty easy, then Tennessee will be a big one. MTSU will probably be tougher than UK even though it's at home - but they are pretty good and it's a classic trap game.
The Falcons play at Washington and vs. Oakland the next two weeks before a bye. I don't see why both my teams can't be undefeated heading into the October 27th/28th weekend. And of course it would be nice to have the Braves in the World Series during that time as well.
Hopefully the Braves can win on Friday in the Wild Card playoff game and make a run in the playoffs. They have lost in the Division Series the last five times they've made it to the playoffs and haven't been to the NLCS since 2001...and the World Series since 1999.
I really think MSU can continue the undefeated streak and go 7-0 before going to Tuscaloosa. Kentucky should be pretty easy, then Tennessee will be a big one. MTSU will probably be tougher than UK even though it's at home - but they are pretty good and it's a classic trap game.
The Falcons play at Washington and vs. Oakland the next two weeks before a bye. I don't see why both my teams can't be undefeated heading into the October 27th/28th weekend. And of course it would be nice to have the Braves in the World Series during that time as well.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Chipper
Chipper Jones played the final home game of his career today. He is the Atlanta Braves, and this is the end of an era.
He is one of the top three switch hitters in the history of baseball along side Eddie Murray and Mickey Mantle. He is a true switch hitter as he has a .304 lifetime average - hitting over .300 both left and right handed.
He is 57th all time in hits.
32nd all time in home runs.
16th all time in walks.
1st in RBI by a third basemen.
Chipper hit at least 20 home runs every year from 1995-2008. He had at least 100 RBI every year from 1996-2003.
His postseason stats don't diminish either. In 91 games he has 13 home runs, 47 RBI and a .288 average.
One of the most remarkable things about his career is what he did in the middle of the steroid era, without the use of steroids. I have never heard his name mentioned throughout the witch hunt to find those who juiced. Yet in 1999 - the height of the steroid era, he won the MVP. Jones was awesome that year: 45 HR, 110 RBI, 126 BB, 25 SB, and a .319 batting average as he led the Braves to the World Series. And then seven years later, in 2008 at age 36, he won the batting title with a .364 average.
What is also amazing about Chipper Jones is his loyalty to the Atlanta Braves. He was drafted as the #1 overall pick in 1990 by the Braves (by GM Bobby Cox) and he will finished his career, 22 years later, with the same organization.
In his rookie year, 1995, the Braves won the World Series. They haven't duplicated that feat in the 16 seasons since. It would be pretty sweet to bookend Chipper's career with championships.
He is one of the top three switch hitters in the history of baseball along side Eddie Murray and Mickey Mantle. He is a true switch hitter as he has a .304 lifetime average - hitting over .300 both left and right handed.
He is 57th all time in hits.
32nd all time in home runs.
16th all time in walks.
1st in RBI by a third basemen.
Chipper hit at least 20 home runs every year from 1995-2008. He had at least 100 RBI every year from 1996-2003.
His postseason stats don't diminish either. In 91 games he has 13 home runs, 47 RBI and a .288 average.
One of the most remarkable things about his career is what he did in the middle of the steroid era, without the use of steroids. I have never heard his name mentioned throughout the witch hunt to find those who juiced. Yet in 1999 - the height of the steroid era, he won the MVP. Jones was awesome that year: 45 HR, 110 RBI, 126 BB, 25 SB, and a .319 batting average as he led the Braves to the World Series. And then seven years later, in 2008 at age 36, he won the batting title with a .364 average.
What is also amazing about Chipper Jones is his loyalty to the Atlanta Braves. He was drafted as the #1 overall pick in 1990 by the Braves (by GM Bobby Cox) and he will finished his career, 22 years later, with the same organization.
In his rookie year, 1995, the Braves won the World Series. They haven't duplicated that feat in the 16 seasons since. It would be pretty sweet to bookend Chipper's career with championships.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Birmingham Needs a New Stadium
Birmingham is the capital of college football...there's no doubt. Yesterday I was driving through B'ham when me and my wife stopped at a mall. We went in to eat at the food court and they had about 10 different TVs and all of them had SEC replays on. Not live games - replays! And this is a mall, not Buffalo Wild Wings. 75% of the people there were women, but they were showing REPLAYS.
Birmingham is the top college football market. They watch the most on TV, they have the greatest percentage of people who care about the sport.
But their football stadium, Legion Field, is a dump.
Alabama used to play a lot of games there, but now they don't play any. The SEC Championship Game played its first two contest there but that was it...on to the Georgia Dome. Now UAB is the only one using the stadium, and it is pretty bad. It's in a bad part of town, and it's run down. The BVAA Compass Bowl is played there, but who has actually watched that game?
How does the city who cares the most about college football have such a dump as a stadium?
The Georgia Dome is 20 years old, and Falcon's owner Arthur Blank is trying to find a new home for the Falcons. This could be a chance for Birmingham to set up and seize the SEC Championship Game. If they had a decent stadium they could have that, a good bowl game, Alabama and Auburn might be interested in playing neutral site games there (not necessarily against one another). It seems like a natural fit.
It's a shame B'ham has Legion Field, and that's it. They really need a new stadium.
Birmingham is the top college football market. They watch the most on TV, they have the greatest percentage of people who care about the sport.
But their football stadium, Legion Field, is a dump.
Alabama used to play a lot of games there, but now they don't play any. The SEC Championship Game played its first two contest there but that was it...on to the Georgia Dome. Now UAB is the only one using the stadium, and it is pretty bad. It's in a bad part of town, and it's run down. The BVAA Compass Bowl is played there, but who has actually watched that game?
How does the city who cares the most about college football have such a dump as a stadium?
The Georgia Dome is 20 years old, and Falcon's owner Arthur Blank is trying to find a new home for the Falcons. This could be a chance for Birmingham to set up and seize the SEC Championship Game. If they had a decent stadium they could have that, a good bowl game, Alabama and Auburn might be interested in playing neutral site games there (not necessarily against one another). It seems like a natural fit.
It's a shame B'ham has Legion Field, and that's it. They really need a new stadium.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
SEC Predictions
EAST
1. Georgia, 12-0 (8-0) - I'm taking the Dawgs to run the table this year. In part because of their great schedule which avoids LSU, Alabama and Arkansas - and of course Mississippi State. But they also have a great team with future NFL stars littered all over their roster. Todd Grantham's defense is going to be stout, and the offense won't be too shabby either with Aaron Murray running the show. The toughest game of the year is @ South Carolina, which they have lost two straight to the Gamecocks, but I'm predicting that streak ends this fall.
2. South Carolina, 9-3 (6-2) - I really think last year's South Carolina team was better. If they had not lost to Auburn at home and Marcus Lattimore would have stayed healthy they could have been competitive in the SEC Championship Game and possibly gone on to the BCS Title Game. This year I think they lose too much talent on defense plus Ellis Johnson - and not having Alshon Jeffrey is going to sting. They are still a really good team though.
3. Florida, 9-3 (6-2) - The Gators are the biggest beneficiary of suspensions in my opinion. I've gone from picking them to go 7-5 to 9-3 because of LSU and Tennessee suspending major playmakers. Their defense should be so good they'll have a chance to win most games, and even though the offense looks less than mediocre they are Florida. But this is a two games better than last year - I'm counting on them heading to College Station in Week 2 and pushing A&M around.
4. Tennessee, 7-5 (3-5) - I had UT beating Florida but without Da'Rick Rogers I can't pull the trigger now. So I had Derek Dooley winning 8 and keeping his job, but I think he wins 7 and loses it. If they had retained their coaching staff I'd be more optimistic with 18 returning starters. If their offensive line can prove to be a good one Tyler Bray & Co. could still be great even without Rogers.
5. Vanderbilt, 7-5 (3-5) - You have to like what James Franklin is doing. Their defense does lose some star players and might not be as good, the offense might be better though. They have UK and Ole Miss on the schedule which is a plus, and I'm actually going to call for a home win vs. Auburn.
6. Missouri, 6-6 (2-6) - I just don't know how well their offense will do in the SEC. I think they have athletes and they will move the ball, but it won't be like it was in the Big 12. This would be a disappointing season for them but I just don't see room for more wins.
7. Kentucky, 3-9 (0-8) - They are no good. Joker gets canned.
WEST
1. Alabama, 12-0 (8-0) - Nick Saban will reload and it will all come down to November 3rd (which I now think they will win - I don't like picking them to go undefeated but I feel it's necessary. They could still lose at LSU though). They are just better than everyone else, and they have better coaching. The two possible stumbling blocks would be at Arkansas and at Tennessee.
2. LSU, 10-2 (6-2) - This is a great team, one that I had pegged to go undefeated before you know who got suspended. Without the Honey Badger I think it cost LSU two loses. He is such a game changer, not only on defense but special teams. I'm going to say Alabama and at Florida.
3. Arkansas, 9-3 (5-3) - Losing Petrino really stings, and they are bringing in new coordinators. They lose three top flight WRs and some solid defensive talent. This team will be good, but they can't compete for the West without Bobby P.
4. Mississippi State, 8-4 (4-4) - I made up my mind I was picking State at 8-4 after I wrote this. Since I always pick MSU to beat Auburn I switched that this year to hopefully reverse the luck. This is a solid team and if Tyler Russell can stay healthy and do well in the passing game, it will be a great year.
5. Auburn, 7-5 (3-5) - Gene Chizik is going in the opposite direction of what won him a national championship in 2010...more defense, less offense. There are more question marks here than probably any other team (maybe UT). How will the defense adjust to a new D.C.? Who will play QB and will they be any good?
6. Texas A&M, 5-7 (2-6) - I'm actually going to pick them to come out of the gates losing the opener at LA Tech (similar to another maroon team circa 2008) and then Florida. Even if they beat LA Tech I still don't think they make a bowl game because they play two FCS schools - so they need 7 wins to be eligible.
7. Ole Miss, 3-9 (0-8) - This is definite rebuilding. They have the toughest schedule and the worst team. But by the end of the year I expect them to look better than Kentucky.
SEC Champ: Georgia - I really think Mark Richt has it in him to win this thing.
Independence Bowl: Missouri
BBVA Compass Bowl: Vanderbilt
Liberty Bowl: Tennessee
Music City Bowl: Auburn
Gator Bowl: Mississippi State
Chick-Fil-A Bowl: Florida
Outback Bowl: South Carolina
Cotton Bowl: Arkansas
Capital One Bowl: LSU
Sugar Bowl: Alabama
BCS Title Game: Georgia vs. USC in the battle of teams with under 75 scholarships yet really really good national championship game. Georgia wins to make it seven straight for the SEC. While I'm out on a limb here, I say Richt retires to become a missionary...I think he has other goals in life, he'd like to go out on his own terms and I'm sure he's tired of the UGA fanbase always calling for his head.
1. Georgia, 12-0 (8-0) - I'm taking the Dawgs to run the table this year. In part because of their great schedule which avoids LSU, Alabama and Arkansas - and of course Mississippi State. But they also have a great team with future NFL stars littered all over their roster. Todd Grantham's defense is going to be stout, and the offense won't be too shabby either with Aaron Murray running the show. The toughest game of the year is @ South Carolina, which they have lost two straight to the Gamecocks, but I'm predicting that streak ends this fall.
2. South Carolina, 9-3 (6-2) - I really think last year's South Carolina team was better. If they had not lost to Auburn at home and Marcus Lattimore would have stayed healthy they could have been competitive in the SEC Championship Game and possibly gone on to the BCS Title Game. This year I think they lose too much talent on defense plus Ellis Johnson - and not having Alshon Jeffrey is going to sting. They are still a really good team though.
3. Florida, 9-3 (6-2) - The Gators are the biggest beneficiary of suspensions in my opinion. I've gone from picking them to go 7-5 to 9-3 because of LSU and Tennessee suspending major playmakers. Their defense should be so good they'll have a chance to win most games, and even though the offense looks less than mediocre they are Florida. But this is a two games better than last year - I'm counting on them heading to College Station in Week 2 and pushing A&M around.
4. Tennessee, 7-5 (3-5) - I had UT beating Florida but without Da'Rick Rogers I can't pull the trigger now. So I had Derek Dooley winning 8 and keeping his job, but I think he wins 7 and loses it. If they had retained their coaching staff I'd be more optimistic with 18 returning starters. If their offensive line can prove to be a good one Tyler Bray & Co. could still be great even without Rogers.
5. Vanderbilt, 7-5 (3-5) - You have to like what James Franklin is doing. Their defense does lose some star players and might not be as good, the offense might be better though. They have UK and Ole Miss on the schedule which is a plus, and I'm actually going to call for a home win vs. Auburn.
6. Missouri, 6-6 (2-6) - I just don't know how well their offense will do in the SEC. I think they have athletes and they will move the ball, but it won't be like it was in the Big 12. This would be a disappointing season for them but I just don't see room for more wins.
7. Kentucky, 3-9 (0-8) - They are no good. Joker gets canned.
WEST
1. Alabama, 12-0 (8-0) - Nick Saban will reload and it will all come down to November 3rd (which I now think they will win - I don't like picking them to go undefeated but I feel it's necessary. They could still lose at LSU though). They are just better than everyone else, and they have better coaching. The two possible stumbling blocks would be at Arkansas and at Tennessee.
2. LSU, 10-2 (6-2) - This is a great team, one that I had pegged to go undefeated before you know who got suspended. Without the Honey Badger I think it cost LSU two loses. He is such a game changer, not only on defense but special teams. I'm going to say Alabama and at Florida.
3. Arkansas, 9-3 (5-3) - Losing Petrino really stings, and they are bringing in new coordinators. They lose three top flight WRs and some solid defensive talent. This team will be good, but they can't compete for the West without Bobby P.
4. Mississippi State, 8-4 (4-4) - I made up my mind I was picking State at 8-4 after I wrote this. Since I always pick MSU to beat Auburn I switched that this year to hopefully reverse the luck. This is a solid team and if Tyler Russell can stay healthy and do well in the passing game, it will be a great year.
5. Auburn, 7-5 (3-5) - Gene Chizik is going in the opposite direction of what won him a national championship in 2010...more defense, less offense. There are more question marks here than probably any other team (maybe UT). How will the defense adjust to a new D.C.? Who will play QB and will they be any good?
6. Texas A&M, 5-7 (2-6) - I'm actually going to pick them to come out of the gates losing the opener at LA Tech (similar to another maroon team circa 2008) and then Florida. Even if they beat LA Tech I still don't think they make a bowl game because they play two FCS schools - so they need 7 wins to be eligible.
7. Ole Miss, 3-9 (0-8) - This is definite rebuilding. They have the toughest schedule and the worst team. But by the end of the year I expect them to look better than Kentucky.
SEC Champ: Georgia - I really think Mark Richt has it in him to win this thing.
Independence Bowl: Missouri
BBVA Compass Bowl: Vanderbilt
Liberty Bowl: Tennessee
Music City Bowl: Auburn
Gator Bowl: Mississippi State
Chick-Fil-A Bowl: Florida
Outback Bowl: South Carolina
Cotton Bowl: Arkansas
Capital One Bowl: LSU
Sugar Bowl: Alabama
BCS Title Game: Georgia vs. USC in the battle of teams with under 75 scholarships yet really really good national championship game. Georgia wins to make it seven straight for the SEC. While I'm out on a limb here, I say Richt retires to become a missionary...I think he has other goals in life, he'd like to go out on his own terms and I'm sure he's tired of the UGA fanbase always calling for his head.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
One Game Playoff....Gotta Be Kris Medlen
Even though the Nats have lost 5 in a row, the Braves are still 4 games back in the division. And since the Bravos can't seem to take a series against them it looks like the Wild Card is the best option for the playoffs. Since there are two Wild Card teams this year to be decided by a one game playoff, you've got to wonder who the Braves best option would be. I think it's got to be Medlen.
The Braves have a six-man rotation right now, and out of those starters Tim Hudson by far has the most experience with 9 starts. He has a 1-3 record, 3.46 E.R.A. He has 3 starts with the Braves; a 0-1 record and 3.56 E.R.A. Tommy Hanson has one career playoff start (2010 vs. Giants) where he gave up 4 runs in 4 innnings. Outside those two, none of the other starters have any playoff experience...not even Ben Sheets.
Sheets looks like he has officially faded. His last 5 starts weren't too good and now he's on the DL, or in other words, the under-performing so we don't want you taking up a roster spot list.
Tommy Hanson has had his best W-L year, but his worst E.R.A. year. He has lost 7-8 mph on his fastball and just isn't the intimidating presence he was before last summer. I don't think anyone would put his name on top of the list for starting a one-game playoff.
Mike Minor: he's had some good starts but he's still feeling his way around being a major league starter. He'd be last on my list to start a game of this magnitude.
Paul Moholm has been pitching great lately. He has been a solid edition to the Braves rotation. Despite his 2-3 record while with Atlanta he has a complete game shutout, 2.49 E.R.A. and at least 6.2 IP in all 5 of his starts. I would be comfortable will Moholm - and if the opposing team struggles against lefties then I might even prefer him.
Tim Hudson is obviously the guy most would say they'd want on the mound. And I wouldn't mind him either. The only thing is he hasn't been as consistently sharp as Moholm or Medlen. He has the experience and he's been a bona fide ace for a decade +, but I think I'd like to save him for a possible Game 1 of the Division Series.
Kris Medlen is my boy. He is a bulldog on the mound. Chipper even said Med has a presence like Greg Maddux. The guy just wins. The Braves have now won his last 17 starts dating back to 2010 - a Braves record! He has currently pitched 28.1 consecutive scoreless innings, which is by far the most by a Braves pitcher this year. In his 6 starts this year he has a 0.67 E.R.A. That's pretty good.
Medlen is on fire right now, so I don't want to be a prisoner of the moment. He may very well cool off in September and Hudson or Moholm will be the best choice. But right now Kris Medlen at least deserves to stay in the rotation when Gonzalez switches back to 5-man, and he's for sure got a spot in the playoff rotation (assuming we do make it).
The Braves have a six-man rotation right now, and out of those starters Tim Hudson by far has the most experience with 9 starts. He has a 1-3 record, 3.46 E.R.A. He has 3 starts with the Braves; a 0-1 record and 3.56 E.R.A. Tommy Hanson has one career playoff start (2010 vs. Giants) where he gave up 4 runs in 4 innnings. Outside those two, none of the other starters have any playoff experience...not even Ben Sheets.
Sheets looks like he has officially faded. His last 5 starts weren't too good and now he's on the DL, or in other words, the under-performing so we don't want you taking up a roster spot list.
Tommy Hanson has had his best W-L year, but his worst E.R.A. year. He has lost 7-8 mph on his fastball and just isn't the intimidating presence he was before last summer. I don't think anyone would put his name on top of the list for starting a one-game playoff.
Mike Minor: he's had some good starts but he's still feeling his way around being a major league starter. He'd be last on my list to start a game of this magnitude.
Paul Moholm has been pitching great lately. He has been a solid edition to the Braves rotation. Despite his 2-3 record while with Atlanta he has a complete game shutout, 2.49 E.R.A. and at least 6.2 IP in all 5 of his starts. I would be comfortable will Moholm - and if the opposing team struggles against lefties then I might even prefer him.
Tim Hudson is obviously the guy most would say they'd want on the mound. And I wouldn't mind him either. The only thing is he hasn't been as consistently sharp as Moholm or Medlen. He has the experience and he's been a bona fide ace for a decade +, but I think I'd like to save him for a possible Game 1 of the Division Series.
Kris Medlen is my boy. He is a bulldog on the mound. Chipper even said Med has a presence like Greg Maddux. The guy just wins. The Braves have now won his last 17 starts dating back to 2010 - a Braves record! He has currently pitched 28.1 consecutive scoreless innings, which is by far the most by a Braves pitcher this year. In his 6 starts this year he has a 0.67 E.R.A. That's pretty good.
Medlen is on fire right now, so I don't want to be a prisoner of the moment. He may very well cool off in September and Hudson or Moholm will be the best choice. But right now Kris Medlen at least deserves to stay in the rotation when Gonzalez switches back to 5-man, and he's for sure got a spot in the playoff rotation (assuming we do make it).
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Quit Feeling Sorry For Yourself
It makes me crazy when I see how folks feel so sorry for themselves these days. I'm not going to say that I've never felt down on my luck, or wanted to feel sorry for myself, but it seems like we allow folks to feel justified to do so.
There's a prevailing attitude in America that no one should have to suffer. Well that's a nice goal to have but it's just not possible. That is the kind of attitude Communist have. But communism doesn't work as we all know. And the fact is, folks do suffer and lead an unhappy life under that style of government.
Going through hard times and difficult circumstances is just part of life. Feeling sorry for yourself only makes things worse. The most important thing to do is have faith that God will see you through, and believe that he WILL do it. Because He will.
JB
There's a prevailing attitude in America that no one should have to suffer. Well that's a nice goal to have but it's just not possible. That is the kind of attitude Communist have. But communism doesn't work as we all know. And the fact is, folks do suffer and lead an unhappy life under that style of government.
Going through hard times and difficult circumstances is just part of life. Feeling sorry for yourself only makes things worse. The most important thing to do is have faith that God will see you through, and believe that he WILL do it. Because He will.
JB
Monday, August 13, 2012
Student Athletes vs. Pros
Last week the Honey Badger's drug problems were well documented as he was kicked off LSU's football team. Many other college football players have gotten in trouble for a variety of things, and it has been reported in the media. That is just the way it is - but is it right?
There are a ton of reasons why people discuss paying college athletes. But one I rarely, if ever, hear is that they get their name run through the mud and they aren't professionals.
The fact is, college football players are student athletes. Whether they are playing college football as a means to get a scholarship for whatever their particular field of study is, or they are preparing for a career in the NFL, these players are learning. They are learning how to be professionals because right now they are amateurs.
It's unfortunate when college players have their mistakes printed in the newspapers, written about on the internet and discussed on the radio. It's an embarrassment to themselves, their families, the team, etc. Yes, the players need to be careful about what they say and do. But they are not yet professionals. So why should they have to?
I understand that this is just the way it is. And with all the technology out there now it will only continue to be more prevalent. I just think it's a shame.
There are a ton of reasons why people discuss paying college athletes. But one I rarely, if ever, hear is that they get their name run through the mud and they aren't professionals.
The fact is, college football players are student athletes. Whether they are playing college football as a means to get a scholarship for whatever their particular field of study is, or they are preparing for a career in the NFL, these players are learning. They are learning how to be professionals because right now they are amateurs.
It's unfortunate when college players have their mistakes printed in the newspapers, written about on the internet and discussed on the radio. It's an embarrassment to themselves, their families, the team, etc. Yes, the players need to be careful about what they say and do. But they are not yet professionals. So why should they have to?
I understand that this is just the way it is. And with all the technology out there now it will only continue to be more prevalent. I just think it's a shame.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
No More Croom Day
The fall of 2008 was pretty much an awful time. The economy collapsed, Barack Obama was elected president, Ole Miss had a really good year and Mississippi State went back in the tank at 4-8.
But there was one good day: November 29, 2008. A day that I shall now remember as 'No More Croom Day'. The day he was fired.
I never really hated Coach Croom like so many people did. He wasn't a very good football coach but in the end he did leave MSU in a better place than he found it...in a position to succeed under another coach.
I always thought he was a good man, just not a good football coach. But since he gets his feelings hurt, and has the time (in the middle of NFL training camp) to pester a blogger using his "likeness", well, there is just no sympathy for the man.
The Croom Diaries was never even a parody of Coach Croom. It was simply a pen name. That was it. No one thought it was Sly himself. For the Walrus to even care about it is baffling. Why in WORLD would anyone want to be Coach Croom?
I will not be watching the "Storied" on this man. I will burn my "the only color that matters is maroon" shirt. This year I will celebrate 'No More Croom Day' on November 29th.
But there was one good day: November 29, 2008. A day that I shall now remember as 'No More Croom Day'. The day he was fired.
I never really hated Coach Croom like so many people did. He wasn't a very good football coach but in the end he did leave MSU in a better place than he found it...in a position to succeed under another coach.
I always thought he was a good man, just not a good football coach. But since he gets his feelings hurt, and has the time (in the middle of NFL training camp) to pester a blogger using his "likeness", well, there is just no sympathy for the man.
The Croom Diaries was never even a parody of Coach Croom. It was simply a pen name. That was it. No one thought it was Sly himself. For the Walrus to even care about it is baffling. Why in WORLD would anyone want to be Coach Croom?
I will not be watching the "Storied" on this man. I will burn my "the only color that matters is maroon" shirt. This year I will celebrate 'No More Croom Day' on November 29th.
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Chick-Fil-A: A Hate Group?
It is beyond comprehension why the extreme left is so bent out of shape about Chick-Fil-A. Saying they are a hate group is about the stupidest thing I've ever heard.
The left has been so successful at creating a mindset of accepting gays that they have made it fashionable to be gay...and if you don't agree with gay marriage then you must hate gay people.
Chick-Fil-A is not a hate group. They don't discriminate against them whether it be hiring or serving them. The fact that so many people got bent out of shape of this is disturbing. But the fact that so many people stood up for Chick-Fil-A was encouraging. I don't care whether they ate Chick-Fil-A on Wednesday because of free speech, Chick-Fil-A being a Christian organization, or because they don't agree with gay marriage. I like all three of those reasons.
The left has been so successful at creating a mindset of accepting gays that they have made it fashionable to be gay...and if you don't agree with gay marriage then you must hate gay people.
Chick-Fil-A is not a hate group. They don't discriminate against them whether it be hiring or serving them. The fact that so many people got bent out of shape of this is disturbing. But the fact that so many people stood up for Chick-Fil-A was encouraging. I don't care whether they ate Chick-Fil-A on Wednesday because of free speech, Chick-Fil-A being a Christian organization, or because they don't agree with gay marriage. I like all three of those reasons.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Going for the Goal, Not the Glory
The other day I was watching the Braves game and backup catcher David Ross was being interviewed. All he wanted to talk about was the way the team was playing and praising starting catcher Brian McCann. Ross was hitting close to .300 at the time with a handful of home runs in limited playing time. He was hitting .375 with 3 home runs in his previous 5 games. Some people might have wanted to discuss their own accomplishments, but Ross just wanted to talk about other people's.
There's a minister at our church who preaches on Sunday's occasionally as a substitute for the senior pastor. I think he's actually a little better than the senior pastor to be honest, although that is a matter of preference. Bottom line, he is good enough to have his own church. But he cares so deeply for others and has such a passion for helping in the community that I know he feels like he can do more good focusing on that rather than preparing for a sermon each week.
Both of the above men are good enough at what they do to take a position elsewhere in the center of the stage. But they prefer to play a supporting role and do just that - support. They are humble. They believe they can make an equal or greater impact by excelling at what their job is and supporting the team/church/group as a whole.
I think that's really important. If you are working as a unit - as a group of people to achieve a goal - there may be only one person that will get the glory. But most of us are in the background and won't receive any glory when the goal is accomplished. It's hard to accept that at times when we know we were just as capable as the person who received the glory.
Supporting others is a great thing. If you can get to the point where other people's successes make you happier than your own successes, then you're a very very admirable person. Everyone should strive to go for the goal, not the glory.
There's a minister at our church who preaches on Sunday's occasionally as a substitute for the senior pastor. I think he's actually a little better than the senior pastor to be honest, although that is a matter of preference. Bottom line, he is good enough to have his own church. But he cares so deeply for others and has such a passion for helping in the community that I know he feels like he can do more good focusing on that rather than preparing for a sermon each week.
Both of the above men are good enough at what they do to take a position elsewhere in the center of the stage. But they prefer to play a supporting role and do just that - support. They are humble. They believe they can make an equal or greater impact by excelling at what their job is and supporting the team/church/group as a whole.
I think that's really important. If you are working as a unit - as a group of people to achieve a goal - there may be only one person that will get the glory. But most of us are in the background and won't receive any glory when the goal is accomplished. It's hard to accept that at times when we know we were just as capable as the person who received the glory.
Supporting others is a great thing. If you can get to the point where other people's successes make you happier than your own successes, then you're a very very admirable person. Everyone should strive to go for the goal, not the glory.
Monday, July 23, 2012
How Long it Will be Until we see Penn State in a Bowl Game
Penn State 15th all-time in bowl appearances and 12th in bowl wins. They've been to a bowl game in 38 of the last 45 years. But when will they be back?
The NCAA threw the hammer on Penn State. This is worse than the death penalty in my opinion. The have to pay $60 million, lose 10 scholarships a year and can't have more than 65 scholarships for the next five years...plus no postseason for the next four years. I'm fine with the punishment, but this will hurt really bad.
Penn State is now basically a FCS team with a really big stadium. We'll see how many of their current players jump ship, I'm guessing it will be at least a handful. Recruiting is where this in going to kill them. How can they possibly convince anyone to commit to the 2013 class knowing they will not be able to compete for any kind of championship until their senior year....and by then Penn State will suck.
With the players that will leave, coaches that won't want to stay after a year or two, lack of recruiting and reduction in scholarships and, in turn, depth, I see 2013 - 2016 being 2-10 years...4-8 at best. They won't be able to at least sell the chance at postseason play for half their college careers to recruits until the 2014 class. The 2012 class is likely to break up, and 2013 will be beyond horrible.
Once they get past all the probation they'll be able to start over. But it will be like they are moving from FCS to FBS since they go from 65 scholarships to 85. Of course, they do have a 100,000+ seat stadium and a ton of money so it isn't exactly like the transition of South Alabama.
Penn State will be eligible for a bowl game again in 2016. They might be able to muster 6 wins by 2018 but it wouldn't be any more. They will need at least 4-5 years after all the probation is over before they can get back to sustained success. And by sustained success I mean back-to-back bowl games. I think we are looking at 10+ years from now until they can get to the point of trying to win 8-9 games. It will probably be 12-15 years before they can be a legit threat for a Big Ten championship again.
The NCAA threw the hammer on Penn State. This is worse than the death penalty in my opinion. The have to pay $60 million, lose 10 scholarships a year and can't have more than 65 scholarships for the next five years...plus no postseason for the next four years. I'm fine with the punishment, but this will hurt really bad.
Penn State is now basically a FCS team with a really big stadium. We'll see how many of their current players jump ship, I'm guessing it will be at least a handful. Recruiting is where this in going to kill them. How can they possibly convince anyone to commit to the 2013 class knowing they will not be able to compete for any kind of championship until their senior year....and by then Penn State will suck.
With the players that will leave, coaches that won't want to stay after a year or two, lack of recruiting and reduction in scholarships and, in turn, depth, I see 2013 - 2016 being 2-10 years...4-8 at best. They won't be able to at least sell the chance at postseason play for half their college careers to recruits until the 2014 class. The 2012 class is likely to break up, and 2013 will be beyond horrible.
Once they get past all the probation they'll be able to start over. But it will be like they are moving from FCS to FBS since they go from 65 scholarships to 85. Of course, they do have a 100,000+ seat stadium and a ton of money so it isn't exactly like the transition of South Alabama.
Penn State will be eligible for a bowl game again in 2016. They might be able to muster 6 wins by 2018 but it wouldn't be any more. They will need at least 4-5 years after all the probation is over before they can get back to sustained success. And by sustained success I mean back-to-back bowl games. I think we are looking at 10+ years from now until they can get to the point of trying to win 8-9 games. It will probably be 12-15 years before they can be a legit threat for a Big Ten championship again.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
100% Redneck
Uncle Si on Duck Dynasty. That is a true redneck right there. I wish I had the sack to wear that to a wedding/party. Wow.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Grilled Flounder Sandwich
I went to the beach this past week and picked up some fresh fish. I also had a little bit of french bread left from a meal a couple of days ago. So I decided to combine these and it turned out great!
I took a filet of flounder and put some butter on it, then seasoned it with Tony's a and seasoned salt. Then I grilled it.
While it was grilling I cut two slices from my loaf of french bread and buttered one side, then stuck it in the oven for a couple of minutes. I also made my homemade tarter sauce which is: mayonnaise, diced jalapenos, just a little bit of horseradish, garlic salt and onion powder.
Spread some tarter sauce on both pieces of bread, then put the fish on the buttered side of the bread. Throw a piece of lettuce or a tomato on there to your desire. Great sandwich.
I took a filet of flounder and put some butter on it, then seasoned it with Tony's a and seasoned salt. Then I grilled it.
While it was grilling I cut two slices from my loaf of french bread and buttered one side, then stuck it in the oven for a couple of minutes. I also made my homemade tarter sauce which is: mayonnaise, diced jalapenos, just a little bit of horseradish, garlic salt and onion powder.
Spread some tarter sauce on both pieces of bread, then put the fish on the buttered side of the bread. Throw a piece of lettuce or a tomato on there to your desire. Great sandwich.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Why, Lord? Why?
Many Christians have a hard time understanding why on the cross Christ cried out, "Father, why have You forsaken Me?" On the surface, it seems contradictory to what we know of Christ, His understanding of His earthly mission, and His relationship with God. But the truth is that instead of being a contradiction, these words are actually a wonderful blessing for all of us!
Understand that when Jesus said those words, it was the exact moment He took all our sins upon Himself. And because God will have nothing to do with sin, Jesus was separated from His Heavenly Father. It's a picture of God having to turn away when His Son took that awful punishment of absorbing all of our sins. So Jesus cried out because He was separated from His Father for the only time in all eternity.
Understand that when Jesus said those words, it was the exact moment He took all our sins upon Himself. And because God will have nothing to do with sin, Jesus was separated from His Heavenly Father. It's a picture of God having to turn away when His Son took that awful punishment of absorbing all of our sins. So Jesus cried out because He was separated from His Father for the only time in all eternity.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Enslaved by Our Government
I would love to give the Pastor of this predominantly black church in
Virginia three cheers. This guy is obviously a leader. Perhaps we should
each decide who our real leader is... It is amazing to see that very little
has changed in 4,000 years.
Good morning, brothers and sisters; it's always a delight to see the pews
crowded on Sunday morning, and so eager to get into God's Word. Turn with me
in your Bibles, if you will, to the 47th chapter of Genesis. We'll begin our
reading at verse 13, and go through verse 27.
Brother Ray, would you stand and read that great passage for us? ...
(Reading) ... Thank you for that fine reading, Brother Ray. So we see that
economic hard times fell upon Egypt , and the people turned to the
government of Pharaoh to deal with this for them. And Pharaoh nationalized
the grain harvest, and placed the grain in great storehouses that he had
built. So the people brought their money to Pharaoh, like a great tax increase, and gave it all to him willingly in return for grain. And this
went on until their money ran out, and they were hungry again.
So when they went to Pharaoh after that, they brought their livestock -
their cattle, their horses, their sheep, and their donkey - to barter for
grain, and verse 17 says that only took them through the end of that year.
But the famine wasn't over, was it? So the next year, the people came before
Pharaoh and admitted they had nothing left, except their land and their own
lives. "There is nothing left in the sight of my lord but our bodies and our
land. Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Buy us and
our land for food, and we with our land will be servants to Pharaoh." So
they surrendered their homes, their land, and their real estate to Pharaoh's
government, and then sold themselves into slavery to him, in return for
grain.
What can we learn from this, brothers and sisters?
That turning to the government instead of to God to be our provider in hard
times only leads to slavery? Yes... That the only reason government wants to
be our provider is to also become our master?
Yes. But look how that passage ends, brothers and sisters! Thus Israel
settled in the land of Egypt , in the land of Goshen . And they gained
possessions in it, and were fruitful and multiplied greatly." God provided
for His people, just as He always has! They didn't end up giving all their
possessions to government, no, it says they gained possessions! But I also
tell you a great truth today, and an ominous one.
We see the same thing happening today - the government today wants to "share
the wealth" once again, to take it from us and redistribute it back to us.
It wants to take control of healthcare, just as it has taken control of
education, and ration it back to us, and when government rations it, then
government decides who gets it, and how much, and what kind. And if we go
along with it, and do it willingly, then we will wind up no differently than
the people of Egypt did four thousand years ago - as slaves to the
government, and as slaves to our leaders.
What Mr. Obama's government is doing now is no different from what Pharaoh's
government did then, and it will end the same. And a lot of people like to
call Mr. Obama a "Messiah," don't they? Is he a Messiah? A savior? Didn't
the Egyptians say, after Pharaoh made them his slaves, "You have saved our
lives; may it please my lord, we will be servants to Pharaoh"? Well, I tell
you this - I know the Messiah; the Messiah is a friend of mine; and Mr.
OBAMA IS NO MESSIAH! No, brothers and sisters, if Mr. Obama is a character
from the Bible, then he is Pharaoh. Bow with me in prayer, if you will...
Lord, You alone are worthy to be served, and we rely on You, and You alone.
We confess that the government is not our deliverer, and never rightly will
be. We read in the eighth chapter of 1 Samuel, when Samuel warned the people
of what a ruler would do, where it says "And in that day you will cry out
because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the LORD will
not answer you in that day..."
And Lord, we acknowledge that day has come. We cry out to you because of the
ruler that we have chosen for ourselves as a nation. Lord, we pray for this
nation. We pray for revival, and we pray for deliverance from those who
would be our masters. Give us hearts to seek You and hands to serve You, and
protect Your people from the atrocities of Pharaoh's government. In God We
Trust...
Virginia three cheers. This guy is obviously a leader. Perhaps we should
each decide who our real leader is... It is amazing to see that very little
has changed in 4,000 years.
Good morning, brothers and sisters; it's always a delight to see the pews
crowded on Sunday morning, and so eager to get into God's Word. Turn with me
in your Bibles, if you will, to the 47th chapter of Genesis. We'll begin our
reading at verse 13, and go through verse 27.
Brother Ray, would you stand and read that great passage for us? ...
(Reading) ... Thank you for that fine reading, Brother Ray. So we see that
economic hard times fell upon Egypt , and the people turned to the
government of Pharaoh to deal with this for them. And Pharaoh nationalized
the grain harvest, and placed the grain in great storehouses that he had
built. So the people brought their money to Pharaoh, like a great tax increase, and gave it all to him willingly in return for grain. And this
went on until their money ran out, and they were hungry again.
So when they went to Pharaoh after that, they brought their livestock -
their cattle, their horses, their sheep, and their donkey - to barter for
grain, and verse 17 says that only took them through the end of that year.
But the famine wasn't over, was it? So the next year, the people came before
Pharaoh and admitted they had nothing left, except their land and their own
lives. "There is nothing left in the sight of my lord but our bodies and our
land. Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Buy us and
our land for food, and we with our land will be servants to Pharaoh." So
they surrendered their homes, their land, and their real estate to Pharaoh's
government, and then sold themselves into slavery to him, in return for
grain.
What can we learn from this, brothers and sisters?
That turning to the government instead of to God to be our provider in hard
times only leads to slavery? Yes... That the only reason government wants to
be our provider is to also become our master?
Yes. But look how that passage ends, brothers and sisters! Thus Israel
settled in the land of Egypt , in the land of Goshen . And they gained
possessions in it, and were fruitful and multiplied greatly." God provided
for His people, just as He always has! They didn't end up giving all their
possessions to government, no, it says they gained possessions! But I also
tell you a great truth today, and an ominous one.
We see the same thing happening today - the government today wants to "share
the wealth" once again, to take it from us and redistribute it back to us.
It wants to take control of healthcare, just as it has taken control of
education, and ration it back to us, and when government rations it, then
government decides who gets it, and how much, and what kind. And if we go
along with it, and do it willingly, then we will wind up no differently than
the people of Egypt did four thousand years ago - as slaves to the
government, and as slaves to our leaders.
What Mr. Obama's government is doing now is no different from what Pharaoh's
government did then, and it will end the same. And a lot of people like to
call Mr. Obama a "Messiah," don't they? Is he a Messiah? A savior? Didn't
the Egyptians say, after Pharaoh made them his slaves, "You have saved our
lives; may it please my lord, we will be servants to Pharaoh"? Well, I tell
you this - I know the Messiah; the Messiah is a friend of mine; and Mr.
OBAMA IS NO MESSIAH! No, brothers and sisters, if Mr. Obama is a character
from the Bible, then he is Pharaoh. Bow with me in prayer, if you will...
Lord, You alone are worthy to be served, and we rely on You, and You alone.
We confess that the government is not our deliverer, and never rightly will
be. We read in the eighth chapter of 1 Samuel, when Samuel warned the people
of what a ruler would do, where it says "And in that day you will cry out
because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the LORD will
not answer you in that day..."
And Lord, we acknowledge that day has come. We cry out to you because of the
ruler that we have chosen for ourselves as a nation. Lord, we pray for this
nation. We pray for revival, and we pray for deliverance from those who
would be our masters. Give us hearts to seek You and hands to serve You, and
protect Your people from the atrocities of Pharaoh's government. In God We
Trust...
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
College World Series Pool Play
I've never really liked the fact that a team can go to Omaha and lose two games and that's it. Maybe they were the victim of a stellar pitching performance in the first game and then they face elimination right off the bat.
What I'd like to see is pool play, like the ACC did with their conference tournament this year. Take the two 4-team sides of the College World Series and play a round-robin. So that way each team is guaranteed at least 3 games in Omaha.
What I'd like to see is pool play, like the ACC did with their conference tournament this year. Take the two 4-team sides of the College World Series and play a round-robin. So that way each team is guaranteed at least 3 games in Omaha.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Don't Worry Trust God
It's so easy to worry about things. I often want to worry about something and try to find the solution myself instead of casting my worries on God - which is what he wants us to do.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.
God knows everything about us. He knows what we need and he will provide it if we have faith in Him and trust the he will provide.
"Do not worry, saying 'what shall we eat?' or 'what shall we drink?' or 'what shall we wear?'. For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:31-33.
Easier said than done to completely trust God and not worry about things, but when you do it, and God provides, it is an incredible closeness with Him that you get, and your faith will grow tremendously.
JB
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.
God knows everything about us. He knows what we need and he will provide it if we have faith in Him and trust the he will provide.
"Do not worry, saying 'what shall we eat?' or 'what shall we drink?' or 'what shall we wear?'. For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:31-33.
Easier said than done to completely trust God and not worry about things, but when you do it, and God provides, it is an incredible closeness with Him that you get, and your faith will grow tremendously.
JB
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Bacon
I love bacon. It's absolutely awesome. Well, bacon from a pig is absolutely awesome. I tried some turkey bacon the other day and it in no way shape or form did it for me. It was not good at all. I highly recommend that all your bacon be from a fat pig.
As Jim said on According to Jim, "bacon is the candy of meats". It truly is. It makes breakfast great, lunch better, and dinner amazing. Put it on a hamburger, chicken sandwich, wrap it around your steak, put it in your potato, you salad. There is not end to the possibilities.
As a man, I find myself being the one behind the family bacon frying. I am proud to provide the fam with such a tasty treat. I might call myself curator of all grilled meats and bacon.
As Jim said on According to Jim, "bacon is the candy of meats". It truly is. It makes breakfast great, lunch better, and dinner amazing. Put it on a hamburger, chicken sandwich, wrap it around your steak, put it in your potato, you salad. There is not end to the possibilities.
As a man, I find myself being the one behind the family bacon frying. I am proud to provide the fam with such a tasty treat. I might call myself curator of all grilled meats and bacon.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Sweet Baby Ray's
It's BBQ sauce, and it's very good. (pictured on the right). If you have the means, and I'm sure you do because it's not that expensive, then I suggest you try it. I had it on grilled chicken the other night and might I say it was very good. Had it one BBQ sandwiches as well, and it was solid in that capacity too.
If you're local to the Atlanta area, then Williamson Brothers BBQ sauce is quite tasty as well...it might be my favorite for BBQ sandwiches.
Looking for a homeade BBQ sauce? Try this one.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Inside the Heart
What's inside the heart will always come out. I just finished reading "Enemies of the Heart" by Andy Stanley. It was a good book. It talked about the four enemies of the heart as he described: greed, anger, guilt and jealousy.
One of the things that struck me as I was reading the book was this: what's in the heart will always come out. It's not really what we say to people that defines who we really are, but sometimes it's what we don't say, and that will eventually come out.
Basically, we tend to put on a facade for other people. If our co-workers expect us to act a certain way, then we do. If people at church expect to act a certain way, then we do. Etc. etc. etc. I don't know that we are all who we really are except when we're at home, around our closest family...and really probably just your spouse. If you've never been married, then I'd say there's only one or two people that have ever really known just who you really are, and maybe none.
If someone drops something on their foot, and they say "s*** that hurt!"...and then they say, "I'm so sorry for using that language"; well, then they probably use that language, even if it's not in front of others - they still probably do in their head. Because what's in the heart will come out.
If someone you know is always nice to this one particular person, but then they go on a furious rage against them - whether it be in front of them or behind their back - they have probably been harboring ill feelings towards them for a while. What's in the heart just came out.
The point is: you can combat these feelings. There is always a reason for having something bad in your heart. The key is to get it out. Do I want what someone else has? Do I not feel like I am getting my way? Am I not giving it away because I don't want them to have it? Whatever it could be, the bad things need to go. It's a daily struggle trying to be the person who we ought to be striving to be: more like Jesus. Just have to ask God every day for the wisdom and patience, for the understanding to make ourselves better...and to get rid of the enemies of the heart, because they will come out.
One of the things that struck me as I was reading the book was this: what's in the heart will always come out. It's not really what we say to people that defines who we really are, but sometimes it's what we don't say, and that will eventually come out.
Basically, we tend to put on a facade for other people. If our co-workers expect us to act a certain way, then we do. If people at church expect to act a certain way, then we do. Etc. etc. etc. I don't know that we are all who we really are except when we're at home, around our closest family...and really probably just your spouse. If you've never been married, then I'd say there's only one or two people that have ever really known just who you really are, and maybe none.
If someone drops something on their foot, and they say "s*** that hurt!"...and then they say, "I'm so sorry for using that language"; well, then they probably use that language, even if it's not in front of others - they still probably do in their head. Because what's in the heart will come out.
If someone you know is always nice to this one particular person, but then they go on a furious rage against them - whether it be in front of them or behind their back - they have probably been harboring ill feelings towards them for a while. What's in the heart just came out.
The point is: you can combat these feelings. There is always a reason for having something bad in your heart. The key is to get it out. Do I want what someone else has? Do I not feel like I am getting my way? Am I not giving it away because I don't want them to have it? Whatever it could be, the bad things need to go. It's a daily struggle trying to be the person who we ought to be striving to be: more like Jesus. Just have to ask God every day for the wisdom and patience, for the understanding to make ourselves better...and to get rid of the enemies of the heart, because they will come out.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
As a Fan, an 8-team Playoff Would Be Best
I've wanted a college football playoff for a long time. One of the main reasons is that I would like to see what some of these teams like TCU, Boise State and Utah could do in a scenario where they are really playing for something against another top team. And many years there is one or two teams on the outside looking in.
I also am in the crowd of not wanting to hurt the regular season. I know the LSU at Alabama 'Game of the Century' was eventually rendered meaningless, so it doesn't really matter what you do, there is no way to make every game matter. The thing I really care about is protecting the tradition of the regular season. Bragging rights in college football are important, and if you have a 16-team playoff the bragging rights between Auburn and Georgia fans won't mean as much. The fact is, when you know you have two or three mulligans a year, not every game is crucial...and it takes some of the luster off each game.
So, I've always been for a 4-team or 6-team playoff. But when I think about what I'd really like to see - as a fan - it's an 8-team playoff. Think about two weeks after the conference championship games having a Saturday full of playoff games. Wow. Usually that Saturday is made up of two or three worthless bowl games. As far as sports go, there isn't much going on that day. But slot a college football playoff game at 12:00, 3:00, 6:00 and 9:00 and it just became one of, if not the best sports day of the year. Can you imagine it?
If it were up to me, I'd just say the top 4 conference champions (as long as they are ranked in the top 8) would get home field advantage in the 1st round. That way there is still an importance on winning your conference, and in turn, the regular season. Then I'd take the top 4 rated at-large teams to go on the road (use a formula like BCS or a selection committee, it doesn't matter). If there were only 3 conference champions in the top 8, then the highest rated at-large team would host a game as the 4 seed and you'd have 5 at-large teams.
Then I'd play the semifinals on New Year's Day, and I'd have cities bid to host those games. I wouldn't use the bowl games, what's the use? If Dallas or Atlanta or Detroit wants to host them so be it - highest bidder gets it. Then do the same thing for the national championship which is played 10 days - 2 weeks from then.
As far as all the bowl games, you'd still play them...why wouldn't you? People will still watch or not watch depending on their interest level for the teams involved. And I'd say the teams that lose in the 1st round should go on to play in bowl games (like they had never played in the playoffs).
If this sounds like too much (possibly playing 16 games), then I would suggest going back to 11 games. Then you'd be playing 15 games max, which is only one more than currently, and you'd have two byes during the regular season instead of one. And I've been saying this for a couple of years, but I think it would be cool if there were an optional 12th game vs. a FCS school in one of the two weeks leading up to Week 1 (or Labor Day Weekend). That game would count per se, just not towards bowl eligibility. It would act as a preseason game (that would count towards your record and stat book) and rake in some additional dough for the home team and FCS school. Plus, it would make sure Week 1 had better games and not have FCS opponents scattered through team's schedules throughout the year.
I also am in the crowd of not wanting to hurt the regular season. I know the LSU at Alabama 'Game of the Century' was eventually rendered meaningless, so it doesn't really matter what you do, there is no way to make every game matter. The thing I really care about is protecting the tradition of the regular season. Bragging rights in college football are important, and if you have a 16-team playoff the bragging rights between Auburn and Georgia fans won't mean as much. The fact is, when you know you have two or three mulligans a year, not every game is crucial...and it takes some of the luster off each game.
So, I've always been for a 4-team or 6-team playoff. But when I think about what I'd really like to see - as a fan - it's an 8-team playoff. Think about two weeks after the conference championship games having a Saturday full of playoff games. Wow. Usually that Saturday is made up of two or three worthless bowl games. As far as sports go, there isn't much going on that day. But slot a college football playoff game at 12:00, 3:00, 6:00 and 9:00 and it just became one of, if not the best sports day of the year. Can you imagine it?
If it were up to me, I'd just say the top 4 conference champions (as long as they are ranked in the top 8) would get home field advantage in the 1st round. That way there is still an importance on winning your conference, and in turn, the regular season. Then I'd take the top 4 rated at-large teams to go on the road (use a formula like BCS or a selection committee, it doesn't matter). If there were only 3 conference champions in the top 8, then the highest rated at-large team would host a game as the 4 seed and you'd have 5 at-large teams.
Then I'd play the semifinals on New Year's Day, and I'd have cities bid to host those games. I wouldn't use the bowl games, what's the use? If Dallas or Atlanta or Detroit wants to host them so be it - highest bidder gets it. Then do the same thing for the national championship which is played 10 days - 2 weeks from then.
As far as all the bowl games, you'd still play them...why wouldn't you? People will still watch or not watch depending on their interest level for the teams involved. And I'd say the teams that lose in the 1st round should go on to play in bowl games (like they had never played in the playoffs).
If this sounds like too much (possibly playing 16 games), then I would suggest going back to 11 games. Then you'd be playing 15 games max, which is only one more than currently, and you'd have two byes during the regular season instead of one. And I've been saying this for a couple of years, but I think it would be cool if there were an optional 12th game vs. a FCS school in one of the two weeks leading up to Week 1 (or Labor Day Weekend). That game would count per se, just not towards bowl eligibility. It would act as a preseason game (that would count towards your record and stat book) and rake in some additional dough for the home team and FCS school. Plus, it would make sure Week 1 had better games and not have FCS opponents scattered through team's schedules throughout the year.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Hamburgers
I think I've finally figured out a hamburger recipe that everyone likes. All I do is put salt, pepper, and Montreal in the ground chuck while mixing it.
Of course, Montreal already has salt and pepper in it, but is okay because it's the amount of salt and pepper that are added that gives it the taste. Don't go too light on it, but of course don't go too heavy. Put enough on the ground chuck so that you can see it all over the pink meat....but not so much that it's all black and white. It might help if I had measurements, but that's not how I cook.
Also of note, the more toppings your put on your burger the better. If you stick to mustard and mayonnaise, it won't be that great. If you put ketchup on your burger, you're asking for trouble. Onion, pickle, lettuce, tomato bacon, cheese...these are the traditional staples of a good burger. Also a good tip: put the onion and 3-4 dill pickle chips beneath the meat patty for excellent taste.
Of course, Montreal already has salt and pepper in it, but is okay because it's the amount of salt and pepper that are added that gives it the taste. Don't go too light on it, but of course don't go too heavy. Put enough on the ground chuck so that you can see it all over the pink meat....but not so much that it's all black and white. It might help if I had measurements, but that's not how I cook.
Also of note, the more toppings your put on your burger the better. If you stick to mustard and mayonnaise, it won't be that great. If you put ketchup on your burger, you're asking for trouble. Onion, pickle, lettuce, tomato bacon, cheese...these are the traditional staples of a good burger. Also a good tip: put the onion and 3-4 dill pickle chips beneath the meat patty for excellent taste.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Future of College Football Playoffs
The powers at be in college football have finally decided that some form of a 4-team playoff is the best way to determine a national champion. You can bet that this is a jealousy decision rather than a business one. That's because the SEC has won six straight national championships including last year's LSU vs. Alabama matchup which shut everyone else out. And the conference commissioners and college presidents don't think like businessmen, they are too foolish to see potential when it's right in front of them.
But, that jealousy has paved the way for them to see just how much they can make with a playoff. It doesn't really matter how they end up doing it....ESPN or whoever else buys it will be forking over a ton of money to cover it.
The only people that don't know we're headed towards a 16-team playoff are the people creating this 4-team playoff. Once they see all the money to be made, they will surely want to double it. And then double it again.
Most schools aren't like Texas, Ohio State, Florida, Alabama, etc. There are many many schools who find it difficult to maintain their athletic budget. Increasing the money flow via a playoff will be in high demand (it hasn't been because college presidents are tone deaf to profitable business decisions).
A bigger playoff will also be demanded by the fans even after the four team model is installed. The reason so many fans have been clamoring for a playoff ever since the BCS was introduced is because national TV, radio and internet. In 1975, the only thing you knew about west coast teams was what you read in the newspaper. But right now I could look up USC's roster, recruiting class, you tube videos with their coaches and players, watch them play on TV, etc. If I watch them all year and they go 10-2 but are #5, I am likely going to wonder how they would do in a playoff. There will be demand for more.
After the initial jubilation of a 4-team playoff rubs off, it will turn to 8, and then to 16. And that is where it really starts to benefit MSU and teams like us. By that I mean...well, you know what I mean. I don't think I'm going to make any enemies with this statement: Mississippi State stands a much better chance of winning a national championship if there were a 16-team playoff than a 4. Not that I even dream of winning a national championship - but at least there's a chance.
Personally, I think a 6-team playoff is the way to go. Have the top 2 conference champions get a bye and pick the other four from an at large pool and play it out. That would include a good number of legit teams and still maintain a high importance on conference championships, and in turn, the regular season.
But, that jealousy has paved the way for them to see just how much they can make with a playoff. It doesn't really matter how they end up doing it....ESPN or whoever else buys it will be forking over a ton of money to cover it.
The only people that don't know we're headed towards a 16-team playoff are the people creating this 4-team playoff. Once they see all the money to be made, they will surely want to double it. And then double it again.
Most schools aren't like Texas, Ohio State, Florida, Alabama, etc. There are many many schools who find it difficult to maintain their athletic budget. Increasing the money flow via a playoff will be in high demand (it hasn't been because college presidents are tone deaf to profitable business decisions).
A bigger playoff will also be demanded by the fans even after the four team model is installed. The reason so many fans have been clamoring for a playoff ever since the BCS was introduced is because national TV, radio and internet. In 1975, the only thing you knew about west coast teams was what you read in the newspaper. But right now I could look up USC's roster, recruiting class, you tube videos with their coaches and players, watch them play on TV, etc. If I watch them all year and they go 10-2 but are #5, I am likely going to wonder how they would do in a playoff. There will be demand for more.
After the initial jubilation of a 4-team playoff rubs off, it will turn to 8, and then to 16. And that is where it really starts to benefit MSU and teams like us. By that I mean...well, you know what I mean. I don't think I'm going to make any enemies with this statement: Mississippi State stands a much better chance of winning a national championship if there were a 16-team playoff than a 4. Not that I even dream of winning a national championship - but at least there's a chance.
Personally, I think a 6-team playoff is the way to go. Have the top 2 conference champions get a bye and pick the other four from an at large pool and play it out. That would include a good number of legit teams and still maintain a high importance on conference championships, and in turn, the regular season.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Monday, April 23, 2012
Petrino Really Screwed Arkansas
UPig should have known Petrino would screw them over. He left Louisville right after signing a long term deal, he left the Falcons the day after telling Arthur Blank he was in it for the long haul. And now he leaves Arkansas, a team on the midst of a championship, with John L. Smith.
The way I see it, ARK A.D. Jeff Long had two choices: 1. hire an interim coach to salvage the 2012 season, or 2. hire a long term, up and coming coach to salvage 2013 recruiting. Couldn't salvage both.
I don't think there was any way Arkansas could have hired a proven head coach in April, after spring practice has already taken place. That is why I say the long term choice would have been an up and coming coach, i.e. Garrick McGee. The chances of McGee coming in and equaling the success UPig was going to have WITH Petrino in 2012 was slim. Bobby Petrino is a really good football coach, he overachieves more than most based on the talent he has. So I think if a guy like McGee was hired, it would have been to maintain recruiting, and try to reach the SEC mountain-top another year.
But Long went with the salvage 2012 route, hiring John L. Smith, who was the Arkansas special teams coach in 2011 under Petrino. Obviously, Smith already knows the players. He has been a head coach before. But he's no Petrino. There's a possibility that if UPig was going to be 11-1 they end up 10-2 or 9-3 this coming year. But Smith is older, he doesn't have a great track record, he is the interim coach. All summer, when most of the 2013 commits are made, he will be recruiting as the interim coach. That isn't good. Even if he is awarded the job in December, that isn't enough time to put together a great class...they will just be hoping to survive signing day.
I'm not sure what else Jeff Long could have done for Arkansas. He was put in a really bad position here, and he chose to go for broke in 2012. I'm not sure it will work. For one, all the assistants everyone keeps talking about keeping in tact, are all new. New O.C., new D.C., new position coaches. Secondly, Arkansas was winning because of Petrino's game preparation, his coaching, not the amazing talent he assembled. Yes, ARK is talented, but they are behind LSU, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Auburn and maybe Florida in that department. John L. Smith is not Petrino, and 8-4 will be a success in my eyes for the Hogs.
But who could Long have hired at this point in the year? Is Arkansas really that great of a job? Petrino's name is what gave the position its prestige. It will be interesting to see what happens going forward. All I know right now is Bobby P really screwed the Razorbacks.
The way I see it, ARK A.D. Jeff Long had two choices: 1. hire an interim coach to salvage the 2012 season, or 2. hire a long term, up and coming coach to salvage 2013 recruiting. Couldn't salvage both.
I don't think there was any way Arkansas could have hired a proven head coach in April, after spring practice has already taken place. That is why I say the long term choice would have been an up and coming coach, i.e. Garrick McGee. The chances of McGee coming in and equaling the success UPig was going to have WITH Petrino in 2012 was slim. Bobby Petrino is a really good football coach, he overachieves more than most based on the talent he has. So I think if a guy like McGee was hired, it would have been to maintain recruiting, and try to reach the SEC mountain-top another year.
But Long went with the salvage 2012 route, hiring John L. Smith, who was the Arkansas special teams coach in 2011 under Petrino. Obviously, Smith already knows the players. He has been a head coach before. But he's no Petrino. There's a possibility that if UPig was going to be 11-1 they end up 10-2 or 9-3 this coming year. But Smith is older, he doesn't have a great track record, he is the interim coach. All summer, when most of the 2013 commits are made, he will be recruiting as the interim coach. That isn't good. Even if he is awarded the job in December, that isn't enough time to put together a great class...they will just be hoping to survive signing day.
I'm not sure what else Jeff Long could have done for Arkansas. He was put in a really bad position here, and he chose to go for broke in 2012. I'm not sure it will work. For one, all the assistants everyone keeps talking about keeping in tact, are all new. New O.C., new D.C., new position coaches. Secondly, Arkansas was winning because of Petrino's game preparation, his coaching, not the amazing talent he assembled. Yes, ARK is talented, but they are behind LSU, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Auburn and maybe Florida in that department. John L. Smith is not Petrino, and 8-4 will be a success in my eyes for the Hogs.
But who could Long have hired at this point in the year? Is Arkansas really that great of a job? Petrino's name is what gave the position its prestige. It will be interesting to see what happens going forward. All I know right now is Bobby P really screwed the Razorbacks.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Brian McCann
Brian McCann is a great catcher for the Atlanta Braves. He started his career mid-way through the 2005 season when he was only 21 years old. In his first full season in the big leagues he went to the All-Star game and he's been back to it every year since - six straight times.
The other night, at the Braves home opener, the team let Chipper Jones lead the team out on the field when all of the players were to be introduced to the fans. Chipper has long been the leader of the Braves, but for the last few years he has faded a little bit and Brian McCann has become the best player. It says a lot about the humility of McCann to still let Chipper be in the forefront. He was probably the ring-leader in wanting Chip to lead the team out.
McCann is a really good guy. He and his wife are really big into charities around Atlanta. Guys like him and the way the Braves operate make me happy to be a Braves fan. They always do things the right way. Looking forward to watching another year of ball.
JB
The other night, at the Braves home opener, the team let Chipper Jones lead the team out on the field when all of the players were to be introduced to the fans. Chipper has long been the leader of the Braves, but for the last few years he has faded a little bit and Brian McCann has become the best player. It says a lot about the humility of McCann to still let Chipper be in the forefront. He was probably the ring-leader in wanting Chip to lead the team out.
McCann is a really good guy. He and his wife are really big into charities around Atlanta. Guys like him and the way the Braves operate make me happy to be a Braves fan. They always do things the right way. Looking forward to watching another year of ball.
JB
Friday, March 30, 2012
2012 Atlanta Braves
Another year...and the dream continues for me - a Braves fan. Maybe we'll win it all, who know, but there's always the hope of the new season.
I'm not going to say I'm super pumped about the season, I haven't had too much time to pay attention of spring training baseball. But I'll be ready come Thursday - Opening Day.
The Phillies, Marlins and Nationals are supposed to be better this year. So that means the Braves will have to step up their game since they are basically the same team this year.
C - Brian McCann
1B - Freddie Freeman
2B - Dan Uggla
SS - Tyler Pastranecky
3B - Chipper Jones
LF - Martin Prado
CF - Micheal Bourne
RF - Jason Heyward
Shortstop is the only change. Chipper will probably be hurt half the season so Erick Heinske and Matt Diaz will have to platoon in LF when that happens.
My prediction is 94-68 for the Braves. I think the pitching will be solid again. Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjans, Tim Hudson, Mike Minor, Randall Delgado, Julio Terahan, Kris Medlen - the Braves have a lot of arms.
My NL East predictions:
Phillies: 103-59
Braves: 94-68
Marlins: 92-70
Nationals: 88-74
Mets: 63-99
JB
I'm not going to say I'm super pumped about the season, I haven't had too much time to pay attention of spring training baseball. But I'll be ready come Thursday - Opening Day.
The Phillies, Marlins and Nationals are supposed to be better this year. So that means the Braves will have to step up their game since they are basically the same team this year.
C - Brian McCann
1B - Freddie Freeman
2B - Dan Uggla
SS - Tyler Pastranecky
3B - Chipper Jones
LF - Martin Prado
CF - Micheal Bourne
RF - Jason Heyward
Shortstop is the only change. Chipper will probably be hurt half the season so Erick Heinske and Matt Diaz will have to platoon in LF when that happens.
My prediction is 94-68 for the Braves. I think the pitching will be solid again. Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjans, Tim Hudson, Mike Minor, Randall Delgado, Julio Terahan, Kris Medlen - the Braves have a lot of arms.
My NL East predictions:
Phillies: 103-59
Braves: 94-68
Marlins: 92-70
Nationals: 88-74
Mets: 63-99
JB
Friday, March 23, 2012
Manning/Broncos/Tebow/Jets
I've always been a Payton Manning fan. Even though I hate Ole Miss, and the Mannings are royalty there, Payton went to Tennessee and I like to root for him. But, of course, I love Tebow. So, I had mixed emotions when I found out Manning would sign with Denver, forcing Tebow out.
But I thought, hey, this is a chance for Tebow to go to a place like Jacksonville where they can sell a ton of tickets and embrace him because of his Florida roots. But the Jets end up acquiring him for a 4th round pick. Seriously, the Jags couldn't give up a 3rd round pick for this guy? He would have raked in a ton of money via season tickets, jersey sales, etc.
Maybe Jacksonville is solidly behind Blaine Gabbert. That's a joke to me, but if they've invested a lot into him that could certainly be the case. But what about the Miami Dolphins? They have nothing. No future QB, nothing on the horizon. They couldn't give up a 3rd round pick for Tebow? That is absurd. It's still Florida, it would have been a great fit. Tebow has even had some of his most storied games at the Dolphin's stadium in high school, college and the NFL.
In the end, Tebow is headed to New York behind Mark Sanchez. Now the Jets have two QBs who put up awful stat lines but seem to win more times than not. Fans will be pissed at Sanchez and cry for Tebow, then they'll be pissed at Tebow and cry for Sanchez. It will be interesting. Especially since the Jets are such a mess half the time, and Tebow is about as clean cut as you can get.
It would be a shame for Tebow to end up riding the bench all year except for a few running plays here and there. After taking the Broncos out of the pine box and into the playoffs, then leading them to a playoff win, he gets booted to a place where he's 2nd string. But we'll see what happens. He's like Kurt Warner, people keep stacking the deck against him and he keeps coming through.
JB
But I thought, hey, this is a chance for Tebow to go to a place like Jacksonville where they can sell a ton of tickets and embrace him because of his Florida roots. But the Jets end up acquiring him for a 4th round pick. Seriously, the Jags couldn't give up a 3rd round pick for this guy? He would have raked in a ton of money via season tickets, jersey sales, etc.
Maybe Jacksonville is solidly behind Blaine Gabbert. That's a joke to me, but if they've invested a lot into him that could certainly be the case. But what about the Miami Dolphins? They have nothing. No future QB, nothing on the horizon. They couldn't give up a 3rd round pick for Tebow? That is absurd. It's still Florida, it would have been a great fit. Tebow has even had some of his most storied games at the Dolphin's stadium in high school, college and the NFL.
In the end, Tebow is headed to New York behind Mark Sanchez. Now the Jets have two QBs who put up awful stat lines but seem to win more times than not. Fans will be pissed at Sanchez and cry for Tebow, then they'll be pissed at Tebow and cry for Sanchez. It will be interesting. Especially since the Jets are such a mess half the time, and Tebow is about as clean cut as you can get.
It would be a shame for Tebow to end up riding the bench all year except for a few running plays here and there. After taking the Broncos out of the pine box and into the playoffs, then leading them to a playoff win, he gets booted to a place where he's 2nd string. But we'll see what happens. He's like Kurt Warner, people keep stacking the deck against him and he keeps coming through.
JB
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Mid-Majors Success in the Big Dance
I'm curious about which mid-major program has had the most success in the NCAA Tournament in the last 20 years. I'm just classifying any team not in a BCS conference as a mid-major.
Gonzaga - 15 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's, 1 Elite 8
Xavier - 15 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's (including currently), 2 Elite 8's
Butler - 6 appearances, 4 Sweet 16's, 2 Elite 8's, 2 Final Four's, 2 times runner-up
VCU - 6 appearances, 1 Sweet 16, 1 Elite 8, 1 Final Four
Murray State - 9 appearances
George Mason - 5 appearances, 1 Sweet 16, 1 Elite 8, 1 Final Four
Memphis - 11 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's, 3 Elite 8's, 1 Final Four, 1 time runner-up
Creighton - 8 appearances
Southern Illinois - 9 appearances, 2 Sweet 16's
St. Mary's - 5 appearances, 1 Sweet 16
BYU - 11 appearances, 1 Sweet 16
JB
Gonzaga - 15 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's, 1 Elite 8
Xavier - 15 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's (including currently), 2 Elite 8's
Butler - 6 appearances, 4 Sweet 16's, 2 Elite 8's, 2 Final Four's, 2 times runner-up
VCU - 6 appearances, 1 Sweet 16, 1 Elite 8, 1 Final Four
Murray State - 9 appearances
George Mason - 5 appearances, 1 Sweet 16, 1 Elite 8, 1 Final Four
Memphis - 11 appearances, 5 Sweet 16's, 3 Elite 8's, 1 Final Four, 1 time runner-up
Creighton - 8 appearances
Southern Illinois - 9 appearances, 2 Sweet 16's
St. Mary's - 5 appearances, 1 Sweet 16
BYU - 11 appearances, 1 Sweet 16
JB
Monday, March 12, 2012
Give Me More Tournament, Less Regular Season
I have long since held the idea that the NCAA Tournament is a flawed way of determining a national champion. Before you call me crazy, hear me out.
I love upsets (except when they happen to MSU) in the tourney, but is one 40 minute game really enough to determine which team should advance to the next round? Can you say the best team will win in each round, or will the team who happens to get hot in that particular game win? After a team has played 30+ games in the regular season, is it really fair to judge them all on one quick game?
You and I both know the answer to those questions. The best team really only wins 60-70% of the time. We had a 3, 4, 8 and 11 seed make the Final Four last year. Was VCU really one of the top 4 teams in the country? Would you say that is a good representation of the best teams in the country? UConn was a deserving champ, but shouldn't they have had to beat some of the other great teams of 2011?
Here is what I would like to see - each round be best 2 out of 3.
Yeah, I'm nuts. Who would complain about March Madness? Well, I'm not really complaining so much as I am suggesting that people recognize that the best teams don't always win in the big dance. I'm suggesting that an early exit or long run in the tournament isn't really the best indication of how good your team ultimately was. It's a flawed tournament; a fun one, but flawed.
The NBA is best 4 of 7 in each round of the playoffs. The reason is because the teams adjust to one another after each game. It may take the Mavericks two games to realize what they need to do to score on the Lakers for example; but after they do, they may beat them four in a row. The best team always wins. I don't think that is the way to go for college, but 2 of 3 would be a better way than do or die.
Here's how I would do it: 64 teams, all neutral site games. At first I thought the idea of a home and home and neutral site would be amazing for college basketball, but that is not logistical. Play Game 1 on a Friday, Game 2 on Saturday, and Game 3 if necessary on Sunday. Then do the next round the following weekend. It would take six weeks.
That's a long time you say. Well, does anyone out there love the regular season of college basketball? I'm saying double the part of the season which is by far the most enjoyable, and decrease the boring regular season. All we'd have to do is move the start of conference play to mid-December and start the NCAA Tournament in mid-late February. We'd already be into Round 2 today!
And here's what it would do: 1. allow for a mulligan. Not two mulligans, just one. And you'd still get those amazing upsets. Say for example a 14 seed was going to upset a 3 seed. Well, they still do in Game 1. Now the 3 seed still has a chance to come back and win the next two games. They are the better team, and it's likely they will, but they might not. I just don't think a team who was 24-5 during the year should exit early because southwest San Francisco state got hot and made 12 of 14 from behind the arc.
2. You'd get better match-ups. Those first two days of the tournament are probably the best days of the sporting year, I agree. But then you get to round 2 and you realize you've got southwest San Francisco state playing Billy's cow college for the right to go to the Sweet 16. Snooze. Of course, it's still amazing when you get that Cinderella who slays the dragon in round 1 and round 2. But then you get to the Sweet 16 and you thought you'd see Michigan State vs. Kentucky but now your left with North Dakota Academy facing a Kentucy team who has prepared for them all week, result: 80-45.
3. The best teams make the biggest games. If Kansas is going to win it all, I'd rather them play four or five top 25 teams on the way to the national championship instead of two. I'd like to see a Sweet 16 and Elite 8, a Final Four filled with compelling matchups...none of those blowouts when Cinderella losses its slipper. How big of a let down was Bulter vs. VCU in the Final Four? Sure, it was nice rooting for Butler both years (and I'll say they are legit no doubt), but that game left little to get excited about.
Anyway, that is my two cents about a topic probably no one other than me would bring up. March Madness will be fun again, but I won't take too much stock in Sweet 16s or teams getting upset in the first weekend.
I love upsets (except when they happen to MSU) in the tourney, but is one 40 minute game really enough to determine which team should advance to the next round? Can you say the best team will win in each round, or will the team who happens to get hot in that particular game win? After a team has played 30+ games in the regular season, is it really fair to judge them all on one quick game?
You and I both know the answer to those questions. The best team really only wins 60-70% of the time. We had a 3, 4, 8 and 11 seed make the Final Four last year. Was VCU really one of the top 4 teams in the country? Would you say that is a good representation of the best teams in the country? UConn was a deserving champ, but shouldn't they have had to beat some of the other great teams of 2011?
Here is what I would like to see - each round be best 2 out of 3.
Yeah, I'm nuts. Who would complain about March Madness? Well, I'm not really complaining so much as I am suggesting that people recognize that the best teams don't always win in the big dance. I'm suggesting that an early exit or long run in the tournament isn't really the best indication of how good your team ultimately was. It's a flawed tournament; a fun one, but flawed.
The NBA is best 4 of 7 in each round of the playoffs. The reason is because the teams adjust to one another after each game. It may take the Mavericks two games to realize what they need to do to score on the Lakers for example; but after they do, they may beat them four in a row. The best team always wins. I don't think that is the way to go for college, but 2 of 3 would be a better way than do or die.
Here's how I would do it: 64 teams, all neutral site games. At first I thought the idea of a home and home and neutral site would be amazing for college basketball, but that is not logistical. Play Game 1 on a Friday, Game 2 on Saturday, and Game 3 if necessary on Sunday. Then do the next round the following weekend. It would take six weeks.
That's a long time you say. Well, does anyone out there love the regular season of college basketball? I'm saying double the part of the season which is by far the most enjoyable, and decrease the boring regular season. All we'd have to do is move the start of conference play to mid-December and start the NCAA Tournament in mid-late February. We'd already be into Round 2 today!
And here's what it would do: 1. allow for a mulligan. Not two mulligans, just one. And you'd still get those amazing upsets. Say for example a 14 seed was going to upset a 3 seed. Well, they still do in Game 1. Now the 3 seed still has a chance to come back and win the next two games. They are the better team, and it's likely they will, but they might not. I just don't think a team who was 24-5 during the year should exit early because southwest San Francisco state got hot and made 12 of 14 from behind the arc.
2. You'd get better match-ups. Those first two days of the tournament are probably the best days of the sporting year, I agree. But then you get to round 2 and you realize you've got southwest San Francisco state playing Billy's cow college for the right to go to the Sweet 16. Snooze. Of course, it's still amazing when you get that Cinderella who slays the dragon in round 1 and round 2. But then you get to the Sweet 16 and you thought you'd see Michigan State vs. Kentucky but now your left with North Dakota Academy facing a Kentucy team who has prepared for them all week, result: 80-45.
3. The best teams make the biggest games. If Kansas is going to win it all, I'd rather them play four or five top 25 teams on the way to the national championship instead of two. I'd like to see a Sweet 16 and Elite 8, a Final Four filled with compelling matchups...none of those blowouts when Cinderella losses its slipper. How big of a let down was Bulter vs. VCU in the Final Four? Sure, it was nice rooting for Butler both years (and I'll say they are legit no doubt), but that game left little to get excited about.
Anyway, that is my two cents about a topic probably no one other than me would bring up. March Madness will be fun again, but I won't take too much stock in Sweet 16s or teams getting upset in the first weekend.
Friday, March 2, 2012
How Come in Country Songs Guys Have Trouble Making it Home on Time?
I listen to a lot of country music, and there's one common theme that I don't understand. It's when a guy is singing about himself or a girl about her man, he can't make it home on time. He doesn't call to tell her he'll be home late, and of course he had told her not to worry when he does this, but she leaves him. It's sad.
Do these guys not have cell phones? They can't call, or text? Are they alcoholics and are in such a rush to to make it to happy hour after work and completely forget to tell their wives? What's the deal?
Now, I understand the gist of the problem: he's cheating on her...so she leaves. But can't they make up some other story line? Coming home late? This was ok in the 70s and 80s when they didn't have cell phones, but it just doesn't make sense any more. I think these guys should give their wife a call or text to let them know they'll be messing around, and be home late.
JB
Do these guys not have cell phones? They can't call, or text? Are they alcoholics and are in such a rush to to make it to happy hour after work and completely forget to tell their wives? What's the deal?
Now, I understand the gist of the problem: he's cheating on her...so she leaves. But can't they make up some other story line? Coming home late? This was ok in the 70s and 80s when they didn't have cell phones, but it just doesn't make sense any more. I think these guys should give their wife a call or text to let them know they'll be messing around, and be home late.
JB
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
The Reuben
The reuben is a fantastic sandwich. It has come to my attention over the last few months that corned beef is an excellent selection at any time.
Reubens are so good. Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and then there's usually a homemade sauce or thousand island dressing. It is so delicious.
If you are a fan of corned beef, try the 'New York Steamer' at Firehouse Subs. Of course, everything at Firehouse is amazing, but this sandwich is my favorite. It has corned beef, pastrami, melted provolone, mustard, mayo, and Italian dressing. Very good, I highly recommend.
JB
Reubens are so good. Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and then there's usually a homemade sauce or thousand island dressing. It is so delicious.
If you are a fan of corned beef, try the 'New York Steamer' at Firehouse Subs. Of course, everything at Firehouse is amazing, but this sandwich is my favorite. It has corned beef, pastrami, melted provolone, mustard, mayo, and Italian dressing. Very good, I highly recommend.
JB
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Mr. McBeevee
(This was written by Bryant Wright)
There aren't many television shows these days that leave you with moral inspiration. But, years ago, "The Andy Griffith Show" left us with this little gem of wisdom, as most of his shows did.
As Andy, Aunt Bee, and Barney sat around the dinner table, eight-year-old Opie amused them with stories about a new friend, a magical man by the name of Mr. McBeevee. He had a shiny metal hat and made a jingling sound as he walked in the treetops. At first they laughed at Opie's imaginary friend, but his Pa became concerned as the stories grew a bit too outlandish. After yet another evening of McBeevee stories, Andy decided it was time to put an end to the nonsense. Andy demanded that Opie admit he had been making up the adventures. But even under the threat of a whippin', the boy would not recant. "I ain't lyin', Pa. Promise." Opie told his father. Andy retreated downstairs and stared into space.
"Did you punish him?" Aunt Bee asked.
"No," Andy quietly said.
Barney was shocked at Andy's failure to act. "Don't tell me you believe in Mr. McBeevee!"
"No," Andy replied, "but I do believe in Opie."
Andy's trust in Opie was rewarded the next day when he met Mr. McBeevee, who turns out to be a hard-hatted telephone lineman with a belt full of jingling tools. Sometimes when you deal with your children, it's a good idea to ignore logic and let their hearts declare the truth.
JB
There aren't many television shows these days that leave you with moral inspiration. But, years ago, "The Andy Griffith Show" left us with this little gem of wisdom, as most of his shows did.
As Andy, Aunt Bee, and Barney sat around the dinner table, eight-year-old Opie amused them with stories about a new friend, a magical man by the name of Mr. McBeevee. He had a shiny metal hat and made a jingling sound as he walked in the treetops. At first they laughed at Opie's imaginary friend, but his Pa became concerned as the stories grew a bit too outlandish. After yet another evening of McBeevee stories, Andy decided it was time to put an end to the nonsense. Andy demanded that Opie admit he had been making up the adventures. But even under the threat of a whippin', the boy would not recant. "I ain't lyin', Pa. Promise." Opie told his father. Andy retreated downstairs and stared into space.
"Did you punish him?" Aunt Bee asked.
"No," Andy quietly said.
Barney was shocked at Andy's failure to act. "Don't tell me you believe in Mr. McBeevee!"
"No," Andy replied, "but I do believe in Opie."
Andy's trust in Opie was rewarded the next day when he met Mr. McBeevee, who turns out to be a hard-hatted telephone lineman with a belt full of jingling tools. Sometimes when you deal with your children, it's a good idea to ignore logic and let their hearts declare the truth.
JB
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
What a Sports Fan Should Be
In the NFC Championship Game, 49ers kick returner Kyle Williams had a couple of fumbles that basically cost his team the game, and a trip to the Superbowl. You can only imagine the amount of hate mail he got, but he did get this letter from a 7-year old boy:
For a professional athlete, he should be fired for such a bad screw-up...but hate mail from fans is too far. After all, it is just sports.
In college sports, the attitude of this 7-year old is the correct one. The student-athletes that play should not be subjected to the same criticism that a professional athlete is. We should lift the spirits of collegiate players, because, after all, they are not professionals.
Sometimes children, like the one who wrote the above letter, have the best perspective. Just like when Jesus said, "anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it"; Luke 18:17. Children aren't jaded like adults become, their faith in God and others has no bounds. We should all be more like that.
JB
For a professional athlete, he should be fired for such a bad screw-up...but hate mail from fans is too far. After all, it is just sports.
In college sports, the attitude of this 7-year old is the correct one. The student-athletes that play should not be subjected to the same criticism that a professional athlete is. We should lift the spirits of collegiate players, because, after all, they are not professionals.
Sometimes children, like the one who wrote the above letter, have the best perspective. Just like when Jesus said, "anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it"; Luke 18:17. Children aren't jaded like adults become, their faith in God and others has no bounds. We should all be more like that.
JB
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Superbowl 46
I'm picking the Patriots over the Giants.
1. Kyle Love (MSU DT 2006-09) plays for the Patriots
2. Eli (Ole Miss) is the QB for the Giants
3. I prefer Boston to New York
Also of note, I think it's pretty much settled that if your team draws the Falcons in the playoff they are destined to make the Superbowl. '08 Cardinals, '10 Packers, and now '11 Giants.
JB
1. Kyle Love (MSU DT 2006-09) plays for the Patriots
2. Eli (Ole Miss) is the QB for the Giants
3. I prefer Boston to New York
Also of note, I think it's pretty much settled that if your team draws the Falcons in the playoff they are destined to make the Superbowl. '08 Cardinals, '10 Packers, and now '11 Giants.
JB
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Priorities
Getting your priorities straight is a big deal. If you get them out of whack it could mean disaster. One of the things I've recently been trying to do is keep my priorities in order.
”Be careful, then, how you live, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time.” - Ephesians 5:15
That's the key, making the most of your time. Sometimes it can be really hard to do, especially when you are a procrastinator like me. I like to make a list and check off things as I get though them, it helps me to concentrate on what I need to do. Those are the minor priorities that need to get done each day.
Major priorities are the same way. You've got to sit down and list out what are the most important things in your life. For me, it's 1. God 2. Family 3. Work 4. Hobbies. When those priorities aren't in that order, I know it, and it's not good for anyone.
JB
”Be careful, then, how you live, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time.” - Ephesians 5:15
That's the key, making the most of your time. Sometimes it can be really hard to do, especially when you are a procrastinator like me. I like to make a list and check off things as I get though them, it helps me to concentrate on what I need to do. Those are the minor priorities that need to get done each day.
Major priorities are the same way. You've got to sit down and list out what are the most important things in your life. For me, it's 1. God 2. Family 3. Work 4. Hobbies. When those priorities aren't in that order, I know it, and it's not good for anyone.
JB
Monday, January 30, 2012
Beard Gettin' It Done
I usually grow a beard in the winter time. Sometimes I keep it for two weeks, sometimes I keep it for two months...just depends on when I get tired of it.
I enjoy a beard when it's really cold out because it keeps the brutal winds from making your cheeks numb. This year I went ahead and grew one early in anticipation of an upcoming job in which I'd have to be outside a lot.
Well, the job was delayed. But I kept the beard. Then this winter turns into one of the mildest in recent memory. So now, it's the end of January and I'm thinking about shaving it but that job is about to finally get underway and I'm afraid if I do it will turn brutally cold.
Beards are the way to go when you spend a lot of time outside. Even in the summer they can soak up your sweat and keep the sun off your face. Unfortunately they don't always look or feel too good.
JB
I enjoy a beard when it's really cold out because it keeps the brutal winds from making your cheeks numb. This year I went ahead and grew one early in anticipation of an upcoming job in which I'd have to be outside a lot.
Well, the job was delayed. But I kept the beard. Then this winter turns into one of the mildest in recent memory. So now, it's the end of January and I'm thinking about shaving it but that job is about to finally get underway and I'm afraid if I do it will turn brutally cold.
Beards are the way to go when you spend a lot of time outside. Even in the summer they can soak up your sweat and keep the sun off your face. Unfortunately they don't always look or feel too good.
JB
Friday, January 27, 2012
Restoration
I like these restoration shows that are on TV now. One of my favorite shows is Pawn Stars. They always buy old things and then get them restored. I find it interesting.
I was a a jobsite this week and I saw this old fire truck...
And then the guy who restores some stuff on Pawn Stars got his own show called American Restoration. That's a good one too. Old stuff from the 40s and 50s is pretty cool, and I like how they can make it look brand new again.
JB
I was a a jobsite this week and I saw this old fire truck...
And then the guy who restores some stuff on Pawn Stars got his own show called American Restoration. That's a good one too. Old stuff from the 40s and 50s is pretty cool, and I like how they can make it look brand new again.
JB
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Great Lesson From Soloman
In 1 Kings, Chapter 3; Soloman asks God for a "discerning heart to govern [God's] people and to distinguish between right and wrong". So, since Soloman asks God for this instead of riches, long life or death to his enemies, God made him the most wise man who will ever live. In addition to that, he gave Soloman all the riches he did not ask for.
Wisdom is very important. It is much more than knowledge, which can just be accumulated at any time. But wisdom is developed over time with experiences that have allowed for understanding and discernment. Perhaps the wisest thing we can do is recognize we are not in control of our lives, but God is.
This passage goes to show, if you are seeking to glorify God, to do his will, to follow where he leads, then God will bless you much more than you could have done on your own. And the fact is, if you really are seeking God's will, and not your will, then you really won't hunger and thirst for worldly things; but you will hunger and thirst for righteousness.
JB
Wisdom is very important. It is much more than knowledge, which can just be accumulated at any time. But wisdom is developed over time with experiences that have allowed for understanding and discernment. Perhaps the wisest thing we can do is recognize we are not in control of our lives, but God is.
This passage goes to show, if you are seeking to glorify God, to do his will, to follow where he leads, then God will bless you much more than you could have done on your own. And the fact is, if you really are seeking God's will, and not your will, then you really won't hunger and thirst for worldly things; but you will hunger and thirst for righteousness.
JB
Monday, January 23, 2012
Grilling in the Winter
Why don't people like to grill out in the winter? The price of charcoal increases, and no one ever has barbecues. I don't understand this at all, especially in the south.
It doesn't bother me at all to grill when it's cold. Just because it's January doesn't mean I don't want hamburgers and steak anymore. The only real difference to me between the two is instead of staying outside while cooking, you stay inside and check on it periodically.
No need to change grilling habits based on the seasons. The smell of the grill is one of my all-time favorites, and there's no reason to keep that confined to the summer.
JB
It doesn't bother me at all to grill when it's cold. Just because it's January doesn't mean I don't want hamburgers and steak anymore. The only real difference to me between the two is instead of staying outside while cooking, you stay inside and check on it periodically.
No need to change grilling habits based on the seasons. The smell of the grill is one of my all-time favorites, and there's no reason to keep that confined to the summer.
JB
Friday, January 20, 2012
Urban Barrel Gardening
I saw this concept on RFD a few weeks back, I thought it was pretty cool. Basically, if you don't have the ability to keep your own garden, or the land, you can grow vegetables in a barrel.
The plants grow around the exterior of the barrel, which has holes in it for photosynthesis. By using this method, you only use up 10% of the space you would use for traditional row gardening.
I've never tried it, but it looks pretty cool.
JB
The plants grow around the exterior of the barrel, which has holes in it for photosynthesis. By using this method, you only use up 10% of the space you would use for traditional row gardening.
I've never tried it, but it looks pretty cool.
JB
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Organ Donation
Everyone should be an organ donor. It's simple, you die...but doctors can still use your organs to save someone else's life. That is a no-brainer to me.
God gave us bodies for this earth, but that is all they are. They will be placed in a grave when we die, and then turn to bones, and then to dust. There is no reason to keep your organs, they should go to someone who needs them.
My father-in-law was the recipient of an organ transplant. He got a new liver six and a half years ago from a 28-year-old man who had died suddenly. Now he is able to live on. If that man had not checked 'organ donor' on his driver's license, may father-in-law may have never gotten a liver (because those are hard to come by).
But that guy was indeed an organ donor, as we all should be. If you accomplish nothing in your life, if you aren't able to be a blessing to anyone (which I doubt would ever be the case), then you could at least know that you could be a blessing to someone after you die. Be an organ donor, it's the right thing to do.
JB
God gave us bodies for this earth, but that is all they are. They will be placed in a grave when we die, and then turn to bones, and then to dust. There is no reason to keep your organs, they should go to someone who needs them.
My father-in-law was the recipient of an organ transplant. He got a new liver six and a half years ago from a 28-year-old man who had died suddenly. Now he is able to live on. If that man had not checked 'organ donor' on his driver's license, may father-in-law may have never gotten a liver (because those are hard to come by).
But that guy was indeed an organ donor, as we all should be. If you accomplish nothing in your life, if you aren't able to be a blessing to anyone (which I doubt would ever be the case), then you could at least know that you could be a blessing to someone after you die. Be an organ donor, it's the right thing to do.
JB
Monday, January 16, 2012
Wanting What You Don't Need
I am just as guilty as anyone of wanting what I don't need. I may have been oblivious to something before, but I'll see something someone else has and I'll want one for myself. Everyone does this.
One time an American company built a plant in Central America because of the plentiful and inexpensive labor. Everything went well. They built the plant and hired excellent employees at a cheap rate. Then, they had their first payday and everyone was very happy. But a strange thing happened the rest of that week - nobody showed up for work! Management was bewildered and went to the village leader for an explanation. The leader explained, "Well, now we've got all we need. Why should we come back to work?" So, management devised a powerful game plan. They sent each employee a full-color mail order catalog, and all the workers immediately showed back up for work.
When we go through the bills, there are a lot of them that are luxuries. Cable, internet, cell phone, internet on the cell phone, Netflix, etc. Then you spend money to buy a new computer, bigger TV, faster phone. When really, you were in just as good of shape when you had your old computer, tube TV, and slow phone.
It's funny how we hate what we have when we know there's something better out there. The trick is to be content. That is really hard to do. Especially when the economy eventually does come back and there's money to spend. You just want more stuff. It's something I have to pray for (contentment) or I'll go off the deep end wanting something until I get it.
JB
One time an American company built a plant in Central America because of the plentiful and inexpensive labor. Everything went well. They built the plant and hired excellent employees at a cheap rate. Then, they had their first payday and everyone was very happy. But a strange thing happened the rest of that week - nobody showed up for work! Management was bewildered and went to the village leader for an explanation. The leader explained, "Well, now we've got all we need. Why should we come back to work?" So, management devised a powerful game plan. They sent each employee a full-color mail order catalog, and all the workers immediately showed back up for work.
When we go through the bills, there are a lot of them that are luxuries. Cable, internet, cell phone, internet on the cell phone, Netflix, etc. Then you spend money to buy a new computer, bigger TV, faster phone. When really, you were in just as good of shape when you had your old computer, tube TV, and slow phone.
It's funny how we hate what we have when we know there's something better out there. The trick is to be content. That is really hard to do. Especially when the economy eventually does come back and there's money to spend. You just want more stuff. It's something I have to pray for (contentment) or I'll go off the deep end wanting something until I get it.
JB
Friday, January 13, 2012
Way Too Early 2012 SEC Predictions
The 2011 season is over, so naturally it's time to release some way too early 2012 SEC predictions. This is Phase I in the prediction process. Phase II is after spring practice, and Phase III (the final phase) is two weeks before the season, after most of the summer arrests are tallied up.
EAST
1. Georgia
2. South Carolina
3. Florida
4. Missouri
5. Tennessee
6. Vanderbilt
7. Kentucky
WEST
1. LSU
2. Arkansas
3. Alabama
4. Mississippi State
5. Auburn
6. Texas A&M
7. Ole Miss
JB
EAST
1. Georgia
2. South Carolina
3. Florida
4. Missouri
5. Tennessee
6. Vanderbilt
7. Kentucky
WEST
1. LSU
2. Arkansas
3. Alabama
4. Mississippi State
5. Auburn
6. Texas A&M
7. Ole Miss
JB
Thursday, January 12, 2012
The Polls - End of the Season
I think it should be a split national title for two reasons: 1. unlike the NFL who has a playoff season, the regular season game between LSU and Alabama was for all the marbles. There wasn't anyone thinking, let's play this game as a measuring stick, but the real championship will come later. That was it. And LSU won the game. 2. College football waits over a month between the last game and the championship. Saban is very good about preparation, and he mastered the BCS Title Game. If there were a playoff in a week to week scenario, or just one bye week, I'm not sure they come up with such a great defensive gameplan. Yes, those are the rules and Bama won by them, but LSU had such a great regular season, one of the best all time, and I think they deserve a split since they lost to a team they had beaten - on the road no less.
1. Alabama, 12-1 (1): W vs. Kent State, W at Penn State, W vs. North Texas, W vs. #8 Arkansas, W at #17 Florida, W vs. Vanderbilt, W at Ole Miss, W vs. Tennessee, L vs. #1 LSU, W at Mississippi State, W vs. Georgia Southern, W at Auburn, W vs. #1 LSU
1. LSU, 13-1 (1): W vs. #3 Oregon, W vs. Northwestern State, W at #16 Mississippi State, W at #19 West Virginia, W vs. Kentucky, W vs. #22 Florida, W at Tennessee, W vs. #15 Auburn, W at #2 Alabama, W vs. Western Kentucky, W at Ole Miss, W vs. #3 Arkansas, W vs. #14 Georgia, L vs. #2 Alabama
3. Oklahoma State, 12-1 (3): W vs. LA-Lafayette, W vs. Arizona, W vs. Tulsa, W at #11 Texas A&M, W vs. Kansas, W at #22 Texas, W at Missouri, W vs. #24 Baylor, W vs. #16 Kansas State, W at Texas Tech, L at Iowa State, W vs. #12 Oklahoma, W vs. #6 Stanford
4. Oregon, 12-2 (4): L vs. #4 LSU, W vs. #9 Nevada, W vs. Missouri State, W at Arizona, W vs. Cal, W vs. #19 Arizona State, W at Colorado, W vs. Washington State, W at Washington, W at #3 Stanford, L vs. #16 Southern Cal, W vs. Oregon State, W vs. UCLA, W vs. #10 Wisconsin
5. Arkansas, 11-2 (5): W vs. Missouri State, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. Troy, L at #6 Alabama, W vs. #13 Texas A&M, W vs. #9 Auburn, W at Ole Miss, W at Vanderbilt, W vs. #11 South Carolina, W vs. Tennessee, W vs. Mississippi State, L at #1 LSU, W vs. #11 Kansas State
6. Stanford, 11-2 (7): W vs. San Jose St., W at Duke, W at Arizona, W vs. UCLA, W vs. Colorado, W at Washington State, W vs. #25 Washington, W at #21 Southern California, W at Oregon State, L vs. #5 Oregon, W vs. Cal, W vs. #24 Notre Dame, L vs. #3 Oklahoma State
7. South Carolina, 11-2 (9): W vs. East Carolina, W at Georgia, W vs. Navy, W vs. Vanderbilt, L vs. #14 Auburn, W vs. Kentucky, W at Mississippi State, W at Tennessee, L at Arkansas, W vs. Florida, W vs. The Citadel, W vs. #13 Clemson, W vs. #22 Nebraska
8. Southern California, 10-2 (6): W vs. Minnesota, W vs. Utah, W vs. Syracuse, L at Arizona State, W at Arizona, W at Cal, W at Notre Dame, L at #3 Stanford, W at Colorado, W vs. Washington, W at #4 Oregon, W vs. UCLA
9. Boise State, 12-1 (8): W at Georgia, W at Toledo, W vs. Tulsa, W vs. Nevada, W at Fresno State, W at Colorado State, W vs. Air Force, W at UNLV, L vs. TCU, W at San Diego State, W vs. Wyoming, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. Arizona State
10. Michigan State, 11-3 (11): W vs. Youngstown State, W vs. Florida Atlantic, L at Notre Dame, W at Central Michigan, W at Ohio State, W vs. #11 Michigan, W vs. #4 Wisconsin, L at #13 Nebraska, W vs. Minnesota, W at Iowa, W vs. Indiana, W at Northwestern, L vs. #16 Wisconsin, W vs. #12 Georgia
11. Georgia, 10-4 (19): L vs. #9 Boise State, L vs. #22 South Carolina, W vs. Coastal Carolina, W at Ole Miss, W vs. Mississippi State, W at Tennessee, W at Vanderbilt, W vs. Florida, W vs. New Mexico State, W vs. Auburn, W vs. Kentucky, W at #23 Georgia Tech, L vs. #1 LSU, L vs. #15 Michigan State
12. Wisconsin, 11-3 (10): W vs. UNLV, W vs. Oregon State, W at Northern Illinois, W vs. South Dakota, W vs. #10 Nebraska, W vs. Indiana, L at #16 Michigan State, L at Ohio State, W vs. Purdue, W at Minnesota, W at Illinois, W vs. #21 Penn State, W vs. #11 Michigan State, L vs. #4 Oregon
13. Michigan, 11-2 (12): W vs. Western Michigan, W vs. Notre Dame, W vs. Eastern Michigan, W vs. San Diego State, W vs. Minnesota, W at Northwestern, L at #24 Michigan State, W vs. Purdue, L at Iowa, W at Illinois, W vs. #19 Nebraska, W vs. Ohio State, W vs. #17 Virginia Tech
14. Kansas State, 10-3 (15): W vs. Eastern Kentucky, W vs. Kent State, W at Miami (Fl), W vs. #12 Baylor, W vs. Missouri, W at Texas Tech, W at Kansas, L vs. #11 Oklahoma, L at #4 Oklahoma State, W vs. Texas A&M, W at Texas, W vs. Iowa State, L vs. #5 Arkansas
15. Baylor, 10-3 (15): W vs. #2 TCU, W vs. Stephen F. Austin, W vs. Rice, L at Kansas State, W vs. Iowa State, L at #23 Texas A&M, L at #6 Oklahoma State, W vs. Missouri, W at Kansas, W vs. #7 Oklahoma, W vs. Texas Tech, W vs. Texas, W vs. Washington
16. TCU, 11-2 (14): L at Baylor, W at Air Force, W vs. La-Monroe, W vs. Portland State, L vs. SMU, W at San Diego State, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. BYU, W at Wyoming, W at #6 Boise State, W vs. Colorado State, W vs. UNLV, W vs. Louisiana Tech
17. Southern Miss, 12-2 (20): W vs. Louisiana Tech, L at Marshall, W at SE Louisiana, W at Virginia, W vs. Rice, W at Navy, W vs. SMU, W at UTEP, W at East Carolina, W vs. Central Florida, L at UAB, W vs. Memphis, W at #7 Houston, W vs. Hawaii
18. Houston, 13-1 (18): W vs. UCLA, W at North Texas, W at LA Tech, W vs. Georgia State, W at UTEP, W vs. East Carolina, W vs. Marshall, W vs. Rice, W at UAB, W at Tulane, W vs. SMU, W at Tulsa, L vs. #24 Southern Miss, W vs. #24 Penn State
19. West Virginia, 10-3 (17): W vs. Marshall, W vs. Norfolk State, W at #21 Maryland, L vs. #1 LSU, W vs. Bowling Green, W vs. UConn, L at Syracuse, W at Rutgers, L vs. Louisville, W at Cincinnati, W vs. Pittsburgh, W at South Florida, W vs. #13 Clemson
20. Oklahoma, 10-2 (16): W vs. #24 Tusla, W at #14 Florida State, W vs. Missouri, W vs. Ball State, W vs. #12 Texas, W at Kansas, L vs. Texas Tech, W at #9 Kansas State, W vs. Texas A&M, L at #24 Baylor, W vs. Iowa State, L at #3 Oklahoma State, W vs. Iowa
21. Clemson, 10-4 (22): W vs. Troy, W vs. Wofford, W vs. #1 Auburn, W vs. #14 Florida State, W at #9 Virginia Tech, W vs. Boston College, W at Maryland, W vs. North Carolina, L at Georgia Tech, W vs. Wake Forest, L at N.C. State, L at #12 South Carolina, W vs. #8 Virginia Tech, L vs. #23 West Virginia
22. Virginia Tech, 11-3 (21): W vs. App. State, W at East Carolina, W vs. Arkansas State, W at Marshall, L vs. #11 Clemson, W vs. Miami (FL), W at Wake Forest, W vs. Boston College, W at Duke, W at #17 Georgia Tech, W vs. North Carolina, W at #22 Virginia, L vs. #20 Clemson, L vs. #16 Michigan
23. Auburn, 8-5 (NR): W vs. Utah State, W vs. #14 Mississippi State, L at Clemson, W vs. Florida Atlantic, W at #15 South Carolina, L at #11 Arkansas, W vs. Florida, L at #1 LSU, W vs. Ole Miss, L at #12 Georgia, W vs. Samford, L vs. #2 Alabama, W vs. Virginia
24. Florida State, 9-4 (23): W vs. ULM, W vs. Charleston Southern, L vs. #4 Oklahoma, L at #15 Clemson, L at Wake Forest, W at Duke, W vs. Maryland, W vs. N.C. State, W at Boston College, W vs. Miami (FL), L vs. #25 Virginia, W at Florida, W vs. Notre Dame
25. Nebraska, 9-4 (24): W vs. Chattanooga, W vs. Fresno State, W vs. Washington, W at Wyoming, L at #5 Wisconsin, W vs. Ohio State, W at Minnesota, W vs. #10 Michigan State, L vs. Northwestern, W at #20 Penn State, L at #20 Michigan, W vs. Iowa, L vs. #8 South Carolina
Cincinnati is ranked #25 in the AP.
JB
1. Alabama, 12-1 (1): W vs. Kent State, W at Penn State, W vs. North Texas, W vs. #8 Arkansas, W at #17 Florida, W vs. Vanderbilt, W at Ole Miss, W vs. Tennessee, L vs. #1 LSU, W at Mississippi State, W vs. Georgia Southern, W at Auburn, W vs. #1 LSU
1. LSU, 13-1 (1): W vs. #3 Oregon, W vs. Northwestern State, W at #16 Mississippi State, W at #19 West Virginia, W vs. Kentucky, W vs. #22 Florida, W at Tennessee, W vs. #15 Auburn, W at #2 Alabama, W vs. Western Kentucky, W at Ole Miss, W vs. #3 Arkansas, W vs. #14 Georgia, L vs. #2 Alabama
3. Oklahoma State, 12-1 (3): W vs. LA-Lafayette, W vs. Arizona, W vs. Tulsa, W at #11 Texas A&M, W vs. Kansas, W at #22 Texas, W at Missouri, W vs. #24 Baylor, W vs. #16 Kansas State, W at Texas Tech, L at Iowa State, W vs. #12 Oklahoma, W vs. #6 Stanford
4. Oregon, 12-2 (4): L vs. #4 LSU, W vs. #9 Nevada, W vs. Missouri State, W at Arizona, W vs. Cal, W vs. #19 Arizona State, W at Colorado, W vs. Washington State, W at Washington, W at #3 Stanford, L vs. #16 Southern Cal, W vs. Oregon State, W vs. UCLA, W vs. #10 Wisconsin
5. Arkansas, 11-2 (5): W vs. Missouri State, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. Troy, L at #6 Alabama, W vs. #13 Texas A&M, W vs. #9 Auburn, W at Ole Miss, W at Vanderbilt, W vs. #11 South Carolina, W vs. Tennessee, W vs. Mississippi State, L at #1 LSU, W vs. #11 Kansas State
6. Stanford, 11-2 (7): W vs. San Jose St., W at Duke, W at Arizona, W vs. UCLA, W vs. Colorado, W at Washington State, W vs. #25 Washington, W at #21 Southern California, W at Oregon State, L vs. #5 Oregon, W vs. Cal, W vs. #24 Notre Dame, L vs. #3 Oklahoma State
7. South Carolina, 11-2 (9): W vs. East Carolina, W at Georgia, W vs. Navy, W vs. Vanderbilt, L vs. #14 Auburn, W vs. Kentucky, W at Mississippi State, W at Tennessee, L at Arkansas, W vs. Florida, W vs. The Citadel, W vs. #13 Clemson, W vs. #22 Nebraska
8. Southern California, 10-2 (6): W vs. Minnesota, W vs. Utah, W vs. Syracuse, L at Arizona State, W at Arizona, W at Cal, W at Notre Dame, L at #3 Stanford, W at Colorado, W vs. Washington, W at #4 Oregon, W vs. UCLA
9. Boise State, 12-1 (8): W at Georgia, W at Toledo, W vs. Tulsa, W vs. Nevada, W at Fresno State, W at Colorado State, W vs. Air Force, W at UNLV, L vs. TCU, W at San Diego State, W vs. Wyoming, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. Arizona State
10. Michigan State, 11-3 (11): W vs. Youngstown State, W vs. Florida Atlantic, L at Notre Dame, W at Central Michigan, W at Ohio State, W vs. #11 Michigan, W vs. #4 Wisconsin, L at #13 Nebraska, W vs. Minnesota, W at Iowa, W vs. Indiana, W at Northwestern, L vs. #16 Wisconsin, W vs. #12 Georgia
11. Georgia, 10-4 (19): L vs. #9 Boise State, L vs. #22 South Carolina, W vs. Coastal Carolina, W at Ole Miss, W vs. Mississippi State, W at Tennessee, W at Vanderbilt, W vs. Florida, W vs. New Mexico State, W vs. Auburn, W vs. Kentucky, W at #23 Georgia Tech, L vs. #1 LSU, L vs. #15 Michigan State
12. Wisconsin, 11-3 (10): W vs. UNLV, W vs. Oregon State, W at Northern Illinois, W vs. South Dakota, W vs. #10 Nebraska, W vs. Indiana, L at #16 Michigan State, L at Ohio State, W vs. Purdue, W at Minnesota, W at Illinois, W vs. #21 Penn State, W vs. #11 Michigan State, L vs. #4 Oregon
13. Michigan, 11-2 (12): W vs. Western Michigan, W vs. Notre Dame, W vs. Eastern Michigan, W vs. San Diego State, W vs. Minnesota, W at Northwestern, L at #24 Michigan State, W vs. Purdue, L at Iowa, W at Illinois, W vs. #19 Nebraska, W vs. Ohio State, W vs. #17 Virginia Tech
14. Kansas State, 10-3 (15): W vs. Eastern Kentucky, W vs. Kent State, W at Miami (Fl), W vs. #12 Baylor, W vs. Missouri, W at Texas Tech, W at Kansas, L vs. #11 Oklahoma, L at #4 Oklahoma State, W vs. Texas A&M, W at Texas, W vs. Iowa State, L vs. #5 Arkansas
15. Baylor, 10-3 (15): W vs. #2 TCU, W vs. Stephen F. Austin, W vs. Rice, L at Kansas State, W vs. Iowa State, L at #23 Texas A&M, L at #6 Oklahoma State, W vs. Missouri, W at Kansas, W vs. #7 Oklahoma, W vs. Texas Tech, W vs. Texas, W vs. Washington
16. TCU, 11-2 (14): L at Baylor, W at Air Force, W vs. La-Monroe, W vs. Portland State, L vs. SMU, W at San Diego State, W vs. New Mexico, W vs. BYU, W at Wyoming, W at #6 Boise State, W vs. Colorado State, W vs. UNLV, W vs. Louisiana Tech
17. Southern Miss, 12-2 (20): W vs. Louisiana Tech, L at Marshall, W at SE Louisiana, W at Virginia, W vs. Rice, W at Navy, W vs. SMU, W at UTEP, W at East Carolina, W vs. Central Florida, L at UAB, W vs. Memphis, W at #7 Houston, W vs. Hawaii
18. Houston, 13-1 (18): W vs. UCLA, W at North Texas, W at LA Tech, W vs. Georgia State, W at UTEP, W vs. East Carolina, W vs. Marshall, W vs. Rice, W at UAB, W at Tulane, W vs. SMU, W at Tulsa, L vs. #24 Southern Miss, W vs. #24 Penn State
19. West Virginia, 10-3 (17): W vs. Marshall, W vs. Norfolk State, W at #21 Maryland, L vs. #1 LSU, W vs. Bowling Green, W vs. UConn, L at Syracuse, W at Rutgers, L vs. Louisville, W at Cincinnati, W vs. Pittsburgh, W at South Florida, W vs. #13 Clemson
20. Oklahoma, 10-2 (16): W vs. #24 Tusla, W at #14 Florida State, W vs. Missouri, W vs. Ball State, W vs. #12 Texas, W at Kansas, L vs. Texas Tech, W at #9 Kansas State, W vs. Texas A&M, L at #24 Baylor, W vs. Iowa State, L at #3 Oklahoma State, W vs. Iowa
21. Clemson, 10-4 (22): W vs. Troy, W vs. Wofford, W vs. #1 Auburn, W vs. #14 Florida State, W at #9 Virginia Tech, W vs. Boston College, W at Maryland, W vs. North Carolina, L at Georgia Tech, W vs. Wake Forest, L at N.C. State, L at #12 South Carolina, W vs. #8 Virginia Tech, L vs. #23 West Virginia
22. Virginia Tech, 11-3 (21): W vs. App. State, W at East Carolina, W vs. Arkansas State, W at Marshall, L vs. #11 Clemson, W vs. Miami (FL), W at Wake Forest, W vs. Boston College, W at Duke, W at #17 Georgia Tech, W vs. North Carolina, W at #22 Virginia, L vs. #20 Clemson, L vs. #16 Michigan
23. Auburn, 8-5 (NR): W vs. Utah State, W vs. #14 Mississippi State, L at Clemson, W vs. Florida Atlantic, W at #15 South Carolina, L at #11 Arkansas, W vs. Florida, L at #1 LSU, W vs. Ole Miss, L at #12 Georgia, W vs. Samford, L vs. #2 Alabama, W vs. Virginia
24. Florida State, 9-4 (23): W vs. ULM, W vs. Charleston Southern, L vs. #4 Oklahoma, L at #15 Clemson, L at Wake Forest, W at Duke, W vs. Maryland, W vs. N.C. State, W at Boston College, W vs. Miami (FL), L vs. #25 Virginia, W at Florida, W vs. Notre Dame
25. Nebraska, 9-4 (24): W vs. Chattanooga, W vs. Fresno State, W vs. Washington, W at Wyoming, L at #5 Wisconsin, W vs. Ohio State, W at Minnesota, W vs. #10 Michigan State, L vs. Northwestern, W at #20 Penn State, L at #20 Michigan, W vs. Iowa, L vs. #8 South Carolina
Cincinnati is ranked #25 in the AP.
JB
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Falcons
This NFL postseason I was rooting for the Falcons and the Broncos. The Falcons because they are my hometown team, and have always been my favorite. The Broncos because I am a big Tim Tebow fan. The birds were a massive disappointment, the horses surpassed expectations.
The biggest difference I saw between the two was the Broncos were throwing hay-makers at the Steelers, the Falcons were throwing jabs at the Giants. Maybe it's because Denver had nothing to lose really. The Falcons were either playing tight or they choked.
I really like Matt Ryan and I think he is a very good quarterback. I'm not sure he'll get to the level of Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers but few ever do, very few. But he is good enough to win a Superbowl. A lot of people in Atlanta a ready to throw in the towel on Ryan because he hasn't performed well in playoffs games. But I don't agree with that.
My viewpoint is that there are only 3-5 QBs at a time in the NFL that are so good they can lead you to the Superbowl on their shoulders. Rodgers, Brady, Manning, Brees...those are the kind of guys I'm talking about. For the rest of the teams, you've got to find an adequate QB who can manage the game, make a few throws, play well in crunch time and then focus on defense and the running game.
After four years I think we've seen what Matt Ryan is capable of. He may grow by leaps and bounds like Drew Brees did, but he may not. The Falcons need to shift the focus to defense and start building a team that isn't focused on explosive offense but efficient offense and solid defense.
JB
The biggest difference I saw between the two was the Broncos were throwing hay-makers at the Steelers, the Falcons were throwing jabs at the Giants. Maybe it's because Denver had nothing to lose really. The Falcons were either playing tight or they choked.
I really like Matt Ryan and I think he is a very good quarterback. I'm not sure he'll get to the level of Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers but few ever do, very few. But he is good enough to win a Superbowl. A lot of people in Atlanta a ready to throw in the towel on Ryan because he hasn't performed well in playoffs games. But I don't agree with that.
My viewpoint is that there are only 3-5 QBs at a time in the NFL that are so good they can lead you to the Superbowl on their shoulders. Rodgers, Brady, Manning, Brees...those are the kind of guys I'm talking about. For the rest of the teams, you've got to find an adequate QB who can manage the game, make a few throws, play well in crunch time and then focus on defense and the running game.
After four years I think we've seen what Matt Ryan is capable of. He may grow by leaps and bounds like Drew Brees did, but he may not. The Falcons need to shift the focus to defense and start building a team that isn't focused on explosive offense but efficient offense and solid defense.
JB
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Time For Me to Talk About Tebow Again
Tim Tebow just threw for 316 yards vs. the best pass defense in the NFL. He just won a playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have been in the Superbowl 3 of the last 6 years - winning two of them. Are you sure he can't play quarterback in the NFL?
Everybody hated on him coming into the draft. Then criticized Josh McDaniels for picking him in the 1st round. People said he didn't deserve an opportunity to play when the Broncos were 1-4 with Kyle Orton. Then he wins 7 of 8 and a few people change their tune. But a loss to the Patriots in Week 15 and they again say he can't beat a good team so he shouldn't start for the Broncos in 2012. Then Tebow has two horrible games against the Bills and Chiefs, the Broncos back into the playoffs at 8-8, and they say Brady Quinn should take over in the playoffs.
It's true, Tebow never beat a team with a winning record in the regular season. Of his 7 wins, the best teams the Broncos beat were the Jets, Raiders, Bears, and Chargers who all finished 8-8 (same as Denver). Still, how could anyone say that Brady Quinn should play over Tebow in the playoffs. Tebow was 7-4 in the regular season, but that's not the point. The point is the Broncos were heading down the tubes with Kyle Orton, Tebow came in and pumped them up to 8-5. Yes, his game fell apart in the last couple weeks, but he is the reason they even got to the playoffs.
And good for John Fox, he stuck with Tebow and it paid off. The Steelers were 12-4 this year, so it looks like he has beaten a pretty solid team. Add to it four 40+ yard pass plays, three of them 50+ including the 80 yard game winner and I think he can play QB. No, he's not a Top 5, or Top 10, or Top 15 quarterback. Maybe not even Top 25 in the NFL. But he is a Top 5 winner, and he gets it done. He is clutch. I can't wait to see round 2 vs. the Patriots this weekend.
JB
Everybody hated on him coming into the draft. Then criticized Josh McDaniels for picking him in the 1st round. People said he didn't deserve an opportunity to play when the Broncos were 1-4 with Kyle Orton. Then he wins 7 of 8 and a few people change their tune. But a loss to the Patriots in Week 15 and they again say he can't beat a good team so he shouldn't start for the Broncos in 2012. Then Tebow has two horrible games against the Bills and Chiefs, the Broncos back into the playoffs at 8-8, and they say Brady Quinn should take over in the playoffs.
It's true, Tebow never beat a team with a winning record in the regular season. Of his 7 wins, the best teams the Broncos beat were the Jets, Raiders, Bears, and Chargers who all finished 8-8 (same as Denver). Still, how could anyone say that Brady Quinn should play over Tebow in the playoffs. Tebow was 7-4 in the regular season, but that's not the point. The point is the Broncos were heading down the tubes with Kyle Orton, Tebow came in and pumped them up to 8-5. Yes, his game fell apart in the last couple weeks, but he is the reason they even got to the playoffs.
And good for John Fox, he stuck with Tebow and it paid off. The Steelers were 12-4 this year, so it looks like he has beaten a pretty solid team. Add to it four 40+ yard pass plays, three of them 50+ including the 80 yard game winner and I think he can play QB. No, he's not a Top 5, or Top 10, or Top 15 quarterback. Maybe not even Top 25 in the NFL. But he is a Top 5 winner, and he gets it done. He is clutch. I can't wait to see round 2 vs. the Patriots this weekend.
JB
Monday, January 9, 2012
Why Go to a Barber?
When you think about it, why would anyone drive to a barber shop, wait for the barber, and then pay the barber to cut their hair? I mean, we all know how to use scissors don't we?
Of course, I'm talking about men here. For no reason would I suggest a woman cut their own hair. They have complicated hair styles and if it gets messed up it will ruin their year.
But why pay someone $15 a month to cut a man's hair? Because he is a professional at scissors?
I have gone to a barber only twice in the last 10 years, and none in six years. That's not because I have long hair, it's because I cut my own hair with clippers. I do this, and no one can tell the difference. I don't have a crew cut either. Clippers can cut your hair at a high enough setting that you'll get the same haircut as the barber would give you. And the $30 you spend on them will save you plenty over the long haul as they will last 4-5 years.
Unless you just like the barber shop, then what is the point? If you are trying to save money, this is an easy expense to cut out.
JB
Of course, I'm talking about men here. For no reason would I suggest a woman cut their own hair. They have complicated hair styles and if it gets messed up it will ruin their year.
But why pay someone $15 a month to cut a man's hair? Because he is a professional at scissors?
I have gone to a barber only twice in the last 10 years, and none in six years. That's not because I have long hair, it's because I cut my own hair with clippers. I do this, and no one can tell the difference. I don't have a crew cut either. Clippers can cut your hair at a high enough setting that you'll get the same haircut as the barber would give you. And the $30 you spend on them will save you plenty over the long haul as they will last 4-5 years.
Unless you just like the barber shop, then what is the point? If you are trying to save money, this is an easy expense to cut out.
JB
Friday, January 6, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
NFL Playoffs
I am highly interested in the 2011 NFL playoffs. The Falcons are in, I'm anxious to see what Tebow can do/if he can rebound from the last two games. Should be fun to watch. Here are my predictions...
1st round:
AFC
Bengals over Texans
Broncos over Steelers
NFC
Saints over Lions
Falcons over Giants
2nd round:
AFC
Patriots over Bengals
Ravens over Broncos
NFC
Falcons over Packers
Saints over 49ers
AFC Championship - Ravens over Patriots
NFC Championship - Saints over Falcons
Superbowl - Saints over Ravens
JB
1st round:
AFC
Bengals over Texans
Broncos over Steelers
NFC
Saints over Lions
Falcons over Giants
2nd round:
AFC
Patriots over Bengals
Ravens over Broncos
NFC
Falcons over Packers
Saints over 49ers
AFC Championship - Ravens over Patriots
NFC Championship - Saints over Falcons
Superbowl - Saints over Ravens
JB
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Texas A&M
Texas A&M is about to become a beast. Not only is joining the SEC going to give them more credibility, but it's going to make them much better.
They recently fired Mike Sherman and hired Kevin Sumlin. Judging by what he did at Houston, he will be a success at A&M.
The Aggies already have tons of tradition and money. Joining the SEC just makes them that much stronger.
Now that A&M is in the SEC, and they are the only team from Texas in their conference. And since it's the best conference in America, they are going to pull recruits away from the Longhorns. This is already paying off as they are #4 in the country in recruiting. The last five years their average recruiting ranking was #22.
Lookout SEC West, Texas A&M is coming in, and they are coming hard.
JB
They recently fired Mike Sherman and hired Kevin Sumlin. Judging by what he did at Houston, he will be a success at A&M.
The Aggies already have tons of tradition and money. Joining the SEC just makes them that much stronger.
Now that A&M is in the SEC, and they are the only team from Texas in their conference. And since it's the best conference in America, they are going to pull recruits away from the Longhorns. This is already paying off as they are #4 in the country in recruiting. The last five years their average recruiting ranking was #22.
Lookout SEC West, Texas A&M is coming in, and they are coming hard.
JB
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
I've Been Alive for 10,185 Days
The other day I was wondering how many days I've spent at different places. So I did the calculations. To determine the 'days', I basically said where I laid my head that night...
1. Marietta, GA - 65%
2. Starkville, MS - 14%
3. Compass Lake, FL - 9%
4. Kennesaw, GA - 5%
5. Ridgeland, MS - 3%
6. Vacation, trips, etc. - 2%
7. Woodstock, GA - 1%
8. Olive Branch, MS - 1%
JB
1. Marietta, GA - 65%
2. Starkville, MS - 14%
3. Compass Lake, FL - 9%
4. Kennesaw, GA - 5%
5. Ridgeland, MS - 3%
6. Vacation, trips, etc. - 2%
7. Woodstock, GA - 1%
8. Olive Branch, MS - 1%
JB
Monday, January 2, 2012
Happy Birthday Stacey
Happy Birthday to my wife, Stacey!
I don't think she reads this blog that much anymore because I'm always talking about sports, but this post is dedicated to her. She is a great person, and wife, and I love her.
JB
I don't think she reads this blog that much anymore because I'm always talking about sports, but this post is dedicated to her. She is a great person, and wife, and I love her.
JB
Sunday, January 1, 2012
The Simplest Argument for a College Football 4-team Playoff
If there were a 4-team college football playoff, it would likely be held on New Year's Day. The most popular scenario is #2 vs. #4 in one of the BCS bowls at 1:00, the traditional Rose Bowl at 4:00, and then #1 vs. #4 at 8:00.
I have no beef with the selection of the BCS Title Game. I think LSU and Alabama are the two best teams, even though it's a little bit anti-climatic to have two teams from the same conference playing one another for a second time this season. The main problem with the current system is people have a hard time deciphering who 'deserves' to play in the title game.
In college basketball, the Final Four is rarely made up of four teams whose regular season merits their being included. And you might even have the 35th best team and the 11th best team playing for the national title (as we did in 2011). But basketball is a whole other topic. The simplest argument I can make for a college football playoff is that we want to include all the teams who are good enough to merit playing for a national championship.
Baylor is good, but with three loses they don't deserve a shot. Oklahoma State slipped up once, they deserve a shot. We really will never know just how good they are. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl vs. Stanford should be good, but in a meaningless game what will we really learn? Stanford deserves a shot too. One loss doesn't mean you aren't as good as someone else, let's settle it on the field!
JB
I have no beef with the selection of the BCS Title Game. I think LSU and Alabama are the two best teams, even though it's a little bit anti-climatic to have two teams from the same conference playing one another for a second time this season. The main problem with the current system is people have a hard time deciphering who 'deserves' to play in the title game.
In college basketball, the Final Four is rarely made up of four teams whose regular season merits their being included. And you might even have the 35th best team and the 11th best team playing for the national title (as we did in 2011). But basketball is a whole other topic. The simplest argument I can make for a college football playoff is that we want to include all the teams who are good enough to merit playing for a national championship.
Baylor is good, but with three loses they don't deserve a shot. Oklahoma State slipped up once, they deserve a shot. We really will never know just how good they are. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl vs. Stanford should be good, but in a meaningless game what will we really learn? Stanford deserves a shot too. One loss doesn't mean you aren't as good as someone else, let's settle it on the field!
JB
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