Well after a little over a week off, I am back with a vengeance.
First off, let me reiterate my opinions on the Minnesota Vikings "Silver Fox." About a week ago, I called for Brett Favre to step aside and let Tavaris Jackson take some snaps, or just retire all together. I said it again after the Vikings loss to the Miami Dolphins. I am not knock what the Dolphins did, but Old Man River really screwed it up. Three INTs two in the redzone and one fumble in the their own endzone just added to the futility of the Vikings offense. Here is a letter that I am contemplating writing to Brett Favre:
#4,
Stop.
Sincerely,
Tired of your antics.
More to come this weekend.
WHO DAT
Kenny "Mo"
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Twitter Account
Hey guys. I reactivated my Twitter account.
Follow Me @TheKennyMorris
New Post Tomorrow
Follow Me @TheKennyMorris
New Post Tomorrow
Friday, September 10, 2010
September 10th
WHO DAT? WHO DAT? WHO DAT TALKIN' 'BOUT BEATIN' DEM SAINTS?
Last night during the course of the Saints-Vikings game, Brett Favre looked like he was wondering why he came back for another season. While last night wasn't as physically taxing as last season's NFC title game, Brett Favre looked uncomfortable. The Saints defense only sacked Favre once and Roman Harper laid one good hit on Favre which led to an interception. The physicality didn't do Farve and the Vikings offense in, Old Man River's lack of preparation did. Farve was baited into making bad throws by the Saints secondary that he wouldn't have made last season, or any other in his career for that matter, had he attended training camp. Favre completed only four passes in the second half and made many awful throws. Brad Childress and the rest of the Minnesota Vikings thought that Brett Favre would be an asset this year, but they are 0-1 and five of the next eight teams they have on the schedule made playoffs last season. If Brett Favre had any respect for the Vikings, he would sit out until he figures out how to read a defense again, or just retire all together.
The Saints offense was a classic case of Jekyll and Hyde last night. They came out blazing on the first drive of the game, going 77 yards for the touchdown. Things fizzled after that. The Saints defense allowed nine points in the second quarter and the Saints trailed going into halftime after Garrett Hartley missed the first of two field goals. The Saints offense came out on fire again, torching the Vikings defense for another score on their first drive of the second half, but again things stalled for the offense as they failed to score again in the game. The Saints' defense clearly won the battle last night. Jonathan Vilma picked off a questionable throw by Brett Favre and it seemed that the Saints would hold on. Dropped passes by Devery Henderson, Reggie Bush and Robert Meachem could have doomed the Saints, but they skated by the Vikings who were stuck in neutral for the entire second half.
Look for both offenses to revamp their game plans for next Sunday's contests.
Saints v. 49ers, Monday Sept. 20, ESPN MNF
Vikings v. Dolphins, Sunday Sept. 19, CBS
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Last night during the course of the Saints-Vikings game, Brett Favre looked like he was wondering why he came back for another season. While last night wasn't as physically taxing as last season's NFC title game, Brett Favre looked uncomfortable. The Saints defense only sacked Favre once and Roman Harper laid one good hit on Favre which led to an interception. The physicality didn't do Farve and the Vikings offense in, Old Man River's lack of preparation did. Farve was baited into making bad throws by the Saints secondary that he wouldn't have made last season, or any other in his career for that matter, had he attended training camp. Favre completed only four passes in the second half and made many awful throws. Brad Childress and the rest of the Minnesota Vikings thought that Brett Favre would be an asset this year, but they are 0-1 and five of the next eight teams they have on the schedule made playoffs last season. If Brett Favre had any respect for the Vikings, he would sit out until he figures out how to read a defense again, or just retire all together.
The Saints offense was a classic case of Jekyll and Hyde last night. They came out blazing on the first drive of the game, going 77 yards for the touchdown. Things fizzled after that. The Saints defense allowed nine points in the second quarter and the Saints trailed going into halftime after Garrett Hartley missed the first of two field goals. The Saints offense came out on fire again, torching the Vikings defense for another score on their first drive of the second half, but again things stalled for the offense as they failed to score again in the game. The Saints' defense clearly won the battle last night. Jonathan Vilma picked off a questionable throw by Brett Favre and it seemed that the Saints would hold on. Dropped passes by Devery Henderson, Reggie Bush and Robert Meachem could have doomed the Saints, but they skated by the Vikings who were stuck in neutral for the entire second half.
Look for both offenses to revamp their game plans for next Sunday's contests.
Saints v. 49ers, Monday Sept. 20, ESPN MNF
Vikings v. Dolphins, Sunday Sept. 19, CBS
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Thursday, September 9, 2010
September 9th- "WHO DAT" Edition
It is here. The NFL regular season starts tonight with the rematch of last seasons NFC Championship game between the Minnesota Vikings visiting the Super Bowl Champion, New Orleans Saints, in the Dome. I will try to set my Saints bias aside and give an honest opinion as why both teams will win.
First, lets look at why Brett Farve will lead the upset-minded Vikings to a win over New Orleans.
The Saints didn't do much to ramp up a defense that succeeded based on strategic blitz packages and take-aways. If Adrian Peterson really did work on his ball handling skills in the off season, the Saints run defense will have a hard time keeping him from ripping off big gains for touchdowns. Despite Brett Favre's much talked about ankle, he is still coming off of his best statistical season ever. The ankle won't be a problem if the Vikings offensive line can hold the pocket open long enough for Old Man River (Favre) to be effective. The Viking's defense needs to cause problems for Drew Brees and the Saints' high flying offense. Brees did not make many mistakes last year, but if the Vikings can force Brees to make throws and not give him any time to do it, they will succeed in keeping Brees off of the field. Jared Allen, Vikings defensive end, will need to get to Brees early and often, similar to the way Bobby McCray and Will Smith got to Favre last season. Saints' offensive lineman, Jermon Bushrod, did a supreb job at containing Jared Allen in the game last season, so Jared Allen needs to get separation and be physical in the trench. If AP, Brett Favre, and the Vikings' defense can keep the Saints potent team on their collective heels, and prevent the turnovers that cost them a spot in the Super Bowl, the Vikes should have no problem putting this long awaited game away with a win.
Now here is why the Saints will win...
The Vikings are playing hurt. Brett Favre has said numerous times that his surgically repaired ankle is not healing properly, and Sidney Rice is out for at least half of the season after hip surgery. Bernard Berrian has been tapped as the #1 reciever for Brett Favre and the Vikings offense, which doesn't bode well for the Vikings' hopes of winning. The Saints' offense is returning almost all of their weapons from last season (Mike Bell sign with the Eagles via free agency), and Drew Brees has stated that the Saints have worked harder this off season than in any other to prepare to make another run at a Super Bowl Championship. The Saints forced turnovers on defense and capitalized on them, and despite being out gained by over 200 yards in the game against Minnesota last season, they still pulled it off on Garrett Hartley's overtime field goal. The Saints need to hit Brett Favre like they did last season. He was out of his comfort zone when his teammates had to start picking him up off the turf. The Saints' offense looked goo this off season, and the receiving corps. is in their best shape ever. NFL Live analyst, Mark Schlereth, picked the Saints to win 28-17 and make it back to the Super Bowl. This game should be a lock for the Saints if they can score, baby, score and make Brett Favre feel really uncomfortable. John Zaphyr of vegas-spreads.com has dubbed the Saints as the favorite tonight by six points, and if we know anything, it is to never bet against Vegas.
See Schlereth's analysis here: http://search.espn.go.com/nfl-live/
See Zaphr's analysis here: http://vegas-spreads.com/football/nfl-football/7025-090910-2010-nfl-predictions-minnesota-vikings-week-1-nfl-picks
There. Purely unbiased. Hope everyone enjoys the game tonight.
NBC, 8:30 E/T
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
First, lets look at why Brett Farve will lead the upset-minded Vikings to a win over New Orleans.
The Saints didn't do much to ramp up a defense that succeeded based on strategic blitz packages and take-aways. If Adrian Peterson really did work on his ball handling skills in the off season, the Saints run defense will have a hard time keeping him from ripping off big gains for touchdowns. Despite Brett Favre's much talked about ankle, he is still coming off of his best statistical season ever. The ankle won't be a problem if the Vikings offensive line can hold the pocket open long enough for Old Man River (Favre) to be effective. The Viking's defense needs to cause problems for Drew Brees and the Saints' high flying offense. Brees did not make many mistakes last year, but if the Vikings can force Brees to make throws and not give him any time to do it, they will succeed in keeping Brees off of the field. Jared Allen, Vikings defensive end, will need to get to Brees early and often, similar to the way Bobby McCray and Will Smith got to Favre last season. Saints' offensive lineman, Jermon Bushrod, did a supreb job at containing Jared Allen in the game last season, so Jared Allen needs to get separation and be physical in the trench. If AP, Brett Favre, and the Vikings' defense can keep the Saints potent team on their collective heels, and prevent the turnovers that cost them a spot in the Super Bowl, the Vikes should have no problem putting this long awaited game away with a win.
Now here is why the Saints will win...
The Vikings are playing hurt. Brett Favre has said numerous times that his surgically repaired ankle is not healing properly, and Sidney Rice is out for at least half of the season after hip surgery. Bernard Berrian has been tapped as the #1 reciever for Brett Favre and the Vikings offense, which doesn't bode well for the Vikings' hopes of winning. The Saints' offense is returning almost all of their weapons from last season (Mike Bell sign with the Eagles via free agency), and Drew Brees has stated that the Saints have worked harder this off season than in any other to prepare to make another run at a Super Bowl Championship. The Saints forced turnovers on defense and capitalized on them, and despite being out gained by over 200 yards in the game against Minnesota last season, they still pulled it off on Garrett Hartley's overtime field goal. The Saints need to hit Brett Favre like they did last season. He was out of his comfort zone when his teammates had to start picking him up off the turf. The Saints' offense looked goo this off season, and the receiving corps. is in their best shape ever. NFL Live analyst, Mark Schlereth, picked the Saints to win 28-17 and make it back to the Super Bowl. This game should be a lock for the Saints if they can score, baby, score and make Brett Favre feel really uncomfortable. John Zaphyr of vegas-spreads.com has dubbed the Saints as the favorite tonight by six points, and if we know anything, it is to never bet against Vegas.
See Schlereth's analysis here: http://search.espn.go.com/nfl-live/
See Zaphr's analysis here: http://vegas-spreads.com/football/nfl-football/7025-090910-2010-nfl-predictions-minnesota-vikings-week-1-nfl-picks
There. Purely unbiased. Hope everyone enjoys the game tonight.
NBC, 8:30 E/T
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Drew Brees' Pre-Game Chant
Brees: 1
Players: 2
Brees: Win,
Players: For You
Brees: 3
Players: 4
Brees: Win,
Players: Some More
Brees: 5
Players: 6
Brees: Win,
Players: Again
Brees: 7
Players: 8
Brees: Win,
Players: Great
Brees: 9
Players: 10
Brees: Win,
Players: Again
All: Again, Again, Again, Again!
Players: 2
Brees: Win,
Players: For You
Brees: 3
Players: 4
Brees: Win,
Players: Some More
Brees: 5
Players: 6
Brees: Win,
Players: Again
Brees: 7
Players: 8
Brees: Win,
Players: Great
Brees: 9
Players: 10
Brees: Win,
Players: Again
All: Again, Again, Again, Again!
September 8th
What do Boise State and Rodney Dangerfield have in common? They get no respect.
Up until the Boise State game against Virginia Tech, myself along with millions across the country were not sold on The Broncos being a contender. I still don't know if they are, but they made a great leap in proving their worth to me. They went into what was essentially a home game for Virginia Tech and took it to the Hokies early. The blocked a punt, scored effectively, and suffocated the VT offense in the first quarter. It seemed as the rest of the game wore on, the Broncs got tired and the Hokies capitalized, but it seemed that Boise State had the game in hand the whole time. Frank Beamer's team, who usually plays stellar special teams, made many costly mistakes (had a punt blocked, missed two field goals, and committed numerous punt and kick off penalties). Boise State red shirt junior quarterback, Kellen Moore, solidified his place among college football's elite.
The case against Boise State...
OK BSU fans. Just hear me out. Boise State only plays one ranked team this year! ONE!!! Of the teams remaining on their schedule, only one was ranked last season (Oregon State), the rest have no hope of being ranked at the end of the season. If BSU would move to the MWC, or Pac-10 then the case could be made for their BCS championship chances.
Until Boise State changes conferences (which might happen soon, as two WAC teams have elected to leave the conference after this season), or schedules more out of conference games against ranked opponents, they will continue to knock on the door of a BCS championship berth, but not cross the threshold.
Let's look at some baseball...
My Red Sox are flat done. This seemed obvious tonight when Terry Francona started minor league call-up, Lars Anderson, at first base. Four starters are done for the year and their pitching has been awful over the past weeks. J.D. Drew needs to retire or find a new team next season, pitching coach John Farrell needs to be fired, Dice-K needs to be traded, and pitchers Josh Beckett and John Lackey need to figure out what the hell has been plaguing them this season.
Anyway...
The Rangers might want to start worrying about the health of superstar hitter Josh Hamilton and the overall state of their pitching staff (I'm talking about you Cliff Lee). Since Lee was traded to Texas, the Rangers are 3-8 in his starts. These numbers do not bode well for the Rangers in the playoffs.
Here are my predictions about how the teams will finish at the end of the month,and how some teams will spend their off seasons:
AL East:
(1) New York Yankees -Winner-(A-Rod will date four Hollywood actresses during the course of the post season)
(2) Tampa Bay Rays -Wild Card- (Joe Maddon will grow a mowhawk for the playoffs)
(3) Boston Red Sox (The Red Sox players will be greeted with wheelchairs and walkers during Spring Training)
(4) Toronto Blue Jays (Thank God they have no more good players to trade away)
(5) Baltimore Orioles (Maybe Buck Showalter finally put the proverbial "Boot in the Ass" of the Orioles line-up)
AL Central
(1) Minnesota Twins -Winner- (Joe Mauer didn't impress at home this year, but Jim Thome, like good wine, seems to get better with age)
(2) Chicago White Sox (Ozzie Guillen will find another way to anger GM Kenny Williams this off season by Tweeting profanity in Spanish)
(3) Detroit Tigers (Armando Galarraga and Jim Joyce will host a Little League camp about class and game calling)
(4) Cleveland Indians (The ground crew will still be saying, "They're sh*tty.")
(5) Kansas City Royals (Zack Greinke will be pleading to be released, traded, or have someone dissolve the franchise)
AL West
(1) Texas Rangers -Winner-(Ron Washington will ask Nolan Ryan to sign Rusty Greer, Mark McLamore and "Pudge" Rodriguez, to help them win another playoff game)
(2) Oakland A's (Dallas Braden will be thinking of hitting A-Rod in every at bat next season)
(3) Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Manager Mike Scioscia will try to clone Vlad Guerrero this off season)
(4) Seattle Mariners (Milton Bradley will do something this off season to make the front office question his future with the team, again)
NL East
(1) Atlanta Braves -Winner- (Bobby Cox will get thrown out of every post season game)
(2) Philadelphia Phillies -Wild Card- (Jayson Werth will grow a ferocious beard and let birds nest in it)
(3) New York Mets (Will appear on Dr. Phil's dysfunctional family episodes this summer)
(4) Florida Marlins (They will sign LeBron James to a minor league contract and invite him to Spring Training)
(5) Washington Nationals (Nyjer Morgan will fight LeBron James)
NL Central
(1) Cincinnati Reds -Winner- (Joey Votto will still be asking why he wasn't selected to the All-Star game)
(2) St. Louis Cardinals (Albert Pujols will become the highest paid player in the Bigs sparking A-Rod to pitch a fit)
(3) Houston Astros (uhhh.....)
(4) Milwaukee Brewers (Trevor Hoffman will pull a Brett Favre and retire three times and unretire four times)
(5) Chicago Cubs (Managerial Musical Chairs!!!!!)
(6) Pittsburgh Pirates (The front office will trade or release all of the 2010 starters and sign the cast from Major League II: Back to the Minors)
NL West
(1) San Francisco Giants -Winner- (Major League Baseball will make Tim Lincecum trim his hair and make reliever Brian Wilson pitch barefoot)
(2) San Diego Padres (Bees will infest PetCo Park this off season, again)
(3) Colorado Rockies (Todd Helton will have a facial hair growing contest with Jayson Werth and win)
(4) Los Angeles Dodgers (The McCourts will divorce, sell the team and immediately remarry afterwards)
(5) Arizona Diamondbacks (Mark Reynolds will watch Fred McGriff's hitting video (c. 1999) as many times as he strikes out)
More to come tomorrow for the Saints/Vikes game...
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Up until the Boise State game against Virginia Tech, myself along with millions across the country were not sold on The Broncos being a contender. I still don't know if they are, but they made a great leap in proving their worth to me. They went into what was essentially a home game for Virginia Tech and took it to the Hokies early. The blocked a punt, scored effectively, and suffocated the VT offense in the first quarter. It seemed as the rest of the game wore on, the Broncs got tired and the Hokies capitalized, but it seemed that Boise State had the game in hand the whole time. Frank Beamer's team, who usually plays stellar special teams, made many costly mistakes (had a punt blocked, missed two field goals, and committed numerous punt and kick off penalties). Boise State red shirt junior quarterback, Kellen Moore, solidified his place among college football's elite.
The case against Boise State...
OK BSU fans. Just hear me out. Boise State only plays one ranked team this year! ONE!!! Of the teams remaining on their schedule, only one was ranked last season (Oregon State), the rest have no hope of being ranked at the end of the season. If BSU would move to the MWC, or Pac-10 then the case could be made for their BCS championship chances.
Until Boise State changes conferences (which might happen soon, as two WAC teams have elected to leave the conference after this season), or schedules more out of conference games against ranked opponents, they will continue to knock on the door of a BCS championship berth, but not cross the threshold.
Let's look at some baseball...
My Red Sox are flat done. This seemed obvious tonight when Terry Francona started minor league call-up, Lars Anderson, at first base. Four starters are done for the year and their pitching has been awful over the past weeks. J.D. Drew needs to retire or find a new team next season, pitching coach John Farrell needs to be fired, Dice-K needs to be traded, and pitchers Josh Beckett and John Lackey need to figure out what the hell has been plaguing them this season.
Anyway...
The Rangers might want to start worrying about the health of superstar hitter Josh Hamilton and the overall state of their pitching staff (I'm talking about you Cliff Lee). Since Lee was traded to Texas, the Rangers are 3-8 in his starts. These numbers do not bode well for the Rangers in the playoffs.
Here are my predictions about how the teams will finish at the end of the month,and how some teams will spend their off seasons:
AL East:
(1) New York Yankees -Winner-(A-Rod will date four Hollywood actresses during the course of the post season)
(2) Tampa Bay Rays -Wild Card- (Joe Maddon will grow a mowhawk for the playoffs)
(3) Boston Red Sox (The Red Sox players will be greeted with wheelchairs and walkers during Spring Training)
(4) Toronto Blue Jays (Thank God they have no more good players to trade away)
(5) Baltimore Orioles (Maybe Buck Showalter finally put the proverbial "Boot in the Ass" of the Orioles line-up)
AL Central
(1) Minnesota Twins -Winner- (Joe Mauer didn't impress at home this year, but Jim Thome, like good wine, seems to get better with age)
(2) Chicago White Sox (Ozzie Guillen will find another way to anger GM Kenny Williams this off season by Tweeting profanity in Spanish)
(3) Detroit Tigers (Armando Galarraga and Jim Joyce will host a Little League camp about class and game calling)
(4) Cleveland Indians (The ground crew will still be saying, "They're sh*tty.")
(5) Kansas City Royals (Zack Greinke will be pleading to be released, traded, or have someone dissolve the franchise)
AL West
(1) Texas Rangers -Winner-(Ron Washington will ask Nolan Ryan to sign Rusty Greer, Mark McLamore and "Pudge" Rodriguez, to help them win another playoff game)
(2) Oakland A's (Dallas Braden will be thinking of hitting A-Rod in every at bat next season)
(3) Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Manager Mike Scioscia will try to clone Vlad Guerrero this off season)
(4) Seattle Mariners (Milton Bradley will do something this off season to make the front office question his future with the team, again)
NL East
(1) Atlanta Braves -Winner- (Bobby Cox will get thrown out of every post season game)
(2) Philadelphia Phillies -Wild Card- (Jayson Werth will grow a ferocious beard and let birds nest in it)
(3) New York Mets (Will appear on Dr. Phil's dysfunctional family episodes this summer)
(4) Florida Marlins (They will sign LeBron James to a minor league contract and invite him to Spring Training)
(5) Washington Nationals (Nyjer Morgan will fight LeBron James)
NL Central
(1) Cincinnati Reds -Winner- (Joey Votto will still be asking why he wasn't selected to the All-Star game)
(2) St. Louis Cardinals (Albert Pujols will become the highest paid player in the Bigs sparking A-Rod to pitch a fit)
(3) Houston Astros (uhhh.....)
(4) Milwaukee Brewers (Trevor Hoffman will pull a Brett Favre and retire three times and unretire four times)
(5) Chicago Cubs (Managerial Musical Chairs!!!!!)
(6) Pittsburgh Pirates (The front office will trade or release all of the 2010 starters and sign the cast from Major League II: Back to the Minors)
NL West
(1) San Francisco Giants -Winner- (Major League Baseball will make Tim Lincecum trim his hair and make reliever Brian Wilson pitch barefoot)
(2) San Diego Padres (Bees will infest PetCo Park this off season, again)
(3) Colorado Rockies (Todd Helton will have a facial hair growing contest with Jayson Werth and win)
(4) Los Angeles Dodgers (The McCourts will divorce, sell the team and immediately remarry afterwards)
(5) Arizona Diamondbacks (Mark Reynolds will watch Fred McGriff's hitting video (c. 1999) as many times as he strikes out)
More to come tomorrow for the Saints/Vikes game...
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Monday, September 6, 2010
September 6th- Labor Day
Happy Labor Day, everybody!
Whew, where do I begin. Aside from Ole Miss losing to Jacksonville State on Saturday, I think you could call it business as usual for the favorites in college football. Here are a few top stories from this weekend.
First. What happened with USC's vaunted defense? When Lane Kiffin left Tennessee, he brought his father, defensive genius, Monte Kiffin with him. In a much awaited debut, USC's defense gave up more than 450 yards passing and another 129 yards on the ground. On the flip-side, Matt Barkley was just about perfect going 18/23 for 257 yard and 5 touchdowns. USC's running game made the Hawaii defense's men look like boys, by pounding the pigskin for 246 yards and one score. #18 USC plays University of Virginia at the Coliseum this weekend in what should be a win for the Trojans, but after what Hawaii showed us last weekend, USC has to plan on outscoring Cavaliers and their efficient offense this weekend.
Second. OK, I am going to put my LSU fanhood aside and berate the way they finished on Saturday. The John Chavis led defense allowed UNC quarterback, T.J. Yates, to burn them for over 400 yards and 3 touchdowns including a second half, 97 yard bomb that made LSU's defense look helpless. During the first half, LSU looked strong. defensive back Jai Eugene, defensive tackle Drake Nevis and preseason All-American cornerback, Patrick Peterson looked solid, but they seemed to fizzle out in the second half with the rest of the defense. Gary Crowton is next on my list. This guy is garbage. He is running the same offense that didn't work with Dennis Dixon at Oregon, with a quarterback that is nothing like Dennis Dixon. Gary Crowton failed to call more than three down-field passes against the Tar Heels' depleted secondary. If LSU wants to challenge 'Bama, UF and Auburn later this season, Crowton must put his conservative play calling aside and stretch the field out.
Third. The Tim Tebow era is over, and John Brantley did not impress. The UF offense committed eight fumbles. EIGHT!!!! Exchanges from center to quarterback, and quarterback to running back looked questionable, at best. Jeff Demps showed much of the promise from last season. The junior ripped off a 72 yard score and totaled 98 yards for the game. Brantley went 17/25 for 113 yards and looked uncomfortable taking snaps and looking off defenders. It is quite obvious that the Gators are in a rebuilding year, but after the way they played against Miami (OH), they are going to struggle through SEC play this year.
Fourth. GO BIG BLUE!!! Michigan made Rich Rod proud on Saturday, and Denard Robinson proved that he is the answer to Michigan's prayers. Robinson had 387 yard of total offense with almost 200 yards rushing. The Big House was packed in what could possibly be Rodriguez's last season in the maize and blue. Michigan and their coaching staff answered their critics in a 30-10 drubbing of the UCONN Huskies which bought Rich Rodriguez time to prove that this is what he has been working towards.
Fifth. The feel good story of the college football season has got to be Mark Herzlich. After being named ACC defensive player of the year in 2008, he missed all of last season with bone cancer. He vowed he would return to the field and made good on his promise on Saturday. With very few dry eyes in the stadium, Herzlich recorded 3 solo tackles and seemed to be back to his old way, instilling fear into the hearts of the visiting Weber State Wildcats. Way to go, #94!
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Whew, where do I begin. Aside from Ole Miss losing to Jacksonville State on Saturday, I think you could call it business as usual for the favorites in college football. Here are a few top stories from this weekend.
First. What happened with USC's vaunted defense? When Lane Kiffin left Tennessee, he brought his father, defensive genius, Monte Kiffin with him. In a much awaited debut, USC's defense gave up more than 450 yards passing and another 129 yards on the ground. On the flip-side, Matt Barkley was just about perfect going 18/23 for 257 yard and 5 touchdowns. USC's running game made the Hawaii defense's men look like boys, by pounding the pigskin for 246 yards and one score. #18 USC plays University of Virginia at the Coliseum this weekend in what should be a win for the Trojans, but after what Hawaii showed us last weekend, USC has to plan on outscoring Cavaliers and their efficient offense this weekend.
Second. OK, I am going to put my LSU fanhood aside and berate the way they finished on Saturday. The John Chavis led defense allowed UNC quarterback, T.J. Yates, to burn them for over 400 yards and 3 touchdowns including a second half, 97 yard bomb that made LSU's defense look helpless. During the first half, LSU looked strong. defensive back Jai Eugene, defensive tackle Drake Nevis and preseason All-American cornerback, Patrick Peterson looked solid, but they seemed to fizzle out in the second half with the rest of the defense. Gary Crowton is next on my list. This guy is garbage. He is running the same offense that didn't work with Dennis Dixon at Oregon, with a quarterback that is nothing like Dennis Dixon. Gary Crowton failed to call more than three down-field passes against the Tar Heels' depleted secondary. If LSU wants to challenge 'Bama, UF and Auburn later this season, Crowton must put his conservative play calling aside and stretch the field out.
Third. The Tim Tebow era is over, and John Brantley did not impress. The UF offense committed eight fumbles. EIGHT!!!! Exchanges from center to quarterback, and quarterback to running back looked questionable, at best. Jeff Demps showed much of the promise from last season. The junior ripped off a 72 yard score and totaled 98 yards for the game. Brantley went 17/25 for 113 yards and looked uncomfortable taking snaps and looking off defenders. It is quite obvious that the Gators are in a rebuilding year, but after the way they played against Miami (OH), they are going to struggle through SEC play this year.
Fourth. GO BIG BLUE!!! Michigan made Rich Rod proud on Saturday, and Denard Robinson proved that he is the answer to Michigan's prayers. Robinson had 387 yard of total offense with almost 200 yards rushing. The Big House was packed in what could possibly be Rodriguez's last season in the maize and blue. Michigan and their coaching staff answered their critics in a 30-10 drubbing of the UCONN Huskies which bought Rich Rodriguez time to prove that this is what he has been working towards.
Fifth. The feel good story of the college football season has got to be Mark Herzlich. After being named ACC defensive player of the year in 2008, he missed all of last season with bone cancer. He vowed he would return to the field and made good on his promise on Saturday. With very few dry eyes in the stadium, Herzlich recorded 3 solo tackles and seemed to be back to his old way, instilling fear into the hearts of the visiting Weber State Wildcats. Way to go, #94!
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Thursday, September 2, 2010
September 2nd
College football season has finally arrived! Tonight sees action from four AP Top 25 teams.
-#2 Ohio State Buckeyes v. Marshall Thundering Herd-- Marshall travels to Columbus, OH to take on Jim "The Vest" Tressel, Heisman hopeful Terrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes in what should be an easy start to the season for Ohio State. Key words "should be." That last time these two teams played was in 2004 where Ohio State won a nail-biter 24-21. Shouldn't be the case this year as many experts such as Mel Kiper, Jr. and Kirk Herbstreit have picked The Buckeyes to represent the Big Ten in the National Championship game. My prediction is Ohio State picks up and easy win to open the season.
-#13 Miami Hurricanes v. Florida A&M Rattlers-- Another cake walk game for a top 25 team in the opening week. Jacory Harris and the 'Canes look to squash any thoughts of FAMU upset. Harris, a preseason Heisman darkhorse, came into his own last season passig for over 3,300 yards and 24 touchdowns. If he can keep his interceptions down, Miami will get their BCS bid. Miami won't have a problem in this one.
-#14 USC Trojans v. Hawaii Warriors-- The Trojans travel to Hawaii for what should be a glorified scrimmage. Lane Kiffin makes his USC debut surrounded by many questions. Kiffin was the Trojans wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator from 2001-06 before he left to coach the Oakland Raiders. Hawaii has never been the same since their glory days with June Jones and Colt Brennen. USC walks all over the Warriors.
-#15 Pittsburgh Panthers v. Utah Utes-- One of the more intriguing games of opening week is Pitt vs. Utah. Utah is entering a rebuilding year and Pitt is on the up and up, but something tells me that this game will be closer than some may think. Utah as won 17 straight games at Rice-Eccled and will not go down without a fight. On the flip-side, Pitt boasts on the top preseason rushing attacks led by Dion Lewis who had a stellar 2009 season with almost 1,800 yards and 17 touchdowns. Pitt will inevitably win this game, but not without a fight from the Utes.
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
-#2 Ohio State Buckeyes v. Marshall Thundering Herd-- Marshall travels to Columbus, OH to take on Jim "The Vest" Tressel, Heisman hopeful Terrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes in what should be an easy start to the season for Ohio State. Key words "should be." That last time these two teams played was in 2004 where Ohio State won a nail-biter 24-21. Shouldn't be the case this year as many experts such as Mel Kiper, Jr. and Kirk Herbstreit have picked The Buckeyes to represent the Big Ten in the National Championship game. My prediction is Ohio State picks up and easy win to open the season.
-#13 Miami Hurricanes v. Florida A&M Rattlers-- Another cake walk game for a top 25 team in the opening week. Jacory Harris and the 'Canes look to squash any thoughts of FAMU upset. Harris, a preseason Heisman darkhorse, came into his own last season passig for over 3,300 yards and 24 touchdowns. If he can keep his interceptions down, Miami will get their BCS bid. Miami won't have a problem in this one.
-#14 USC Trojans v. Hawaii Warriors-- The Trojans travel to Hawaii for what should be a glorified scrimmage. Lane Kiffin makes his USC debut surrounded by many questions. Kiffin was the Trojans wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator from 2001-06 before he left to coach the Oakland Raiders. Hawaii has never been the same since their glory days with June Jones and Colt Brennen. USC walks all over the Warriors.
-#15 Pittsburgh Panthers v. Utah Utes-- One of the more intriguing games of opening week is Pitt vs. Utah. Utah is entering a rebuilding year and Pitt is on the up and up, but something tells me that this game will be closer than some may think. Utah as won 17 straight games at Rice-Eccled and will not go down without a fight. On the flip-side, Pitt boasts on the top preseason rushing attacks led by Dion Lewis who had a stellar 2009 season with almost 1,800 yards and 17 touchdowns. Pitt will inevitably win this game, but not without a fight from the Utes.
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Fights, Hot Seats, and Heisman Hopefuls
Don't upset Marlin's pitcher Chris Volstad or throw gas at National's outfielder Nyjer Morgan. With the Marlins up on the reeling Nationals 15-5 in the 5th inning, Volstad, who hit Morgan in the back earlier this week, threw a 91 mph fastball completely behind Morgan. Morgan immediately flung his bat and charged the mound with reckless abandon. He delivered a wild hay-maker with his left but only managed to scrape Volstad's shoulder. Before Volstad could return the blow, Marlin's first baseman, Gaby Sanchez, came out of nowhere to clothesline Morgan. A dog pile ensued and after the may lay, Volstad and Morgan were ejected. The Marlins went onto win the game 16-10.
This is the second time in recent weeks that Nyjer Morgan has had issues with an opposing team. Last week, Morgan threw a ball from the outfield and hit a Phillies fan in the side of the head. Morgan was handed a suspension which he subsequently appealed, but was held out of the following game by manager Jim Riggleman to avoid any potential retaliation against him.
Now onto football...
The sun is rising on the college football season. With play beginning tomorrow, this is one of the more anticipated seasons in recent memory. Here are some top story-lines to watch for during the season:
- D-I Coaches on the hot seat:
Les Miles (LSU)- After another successful recruiting season last year, Miles and the LSU Tigers disappointed the Tiger faithful. The Tiger finished the regular season 9-3, but had one of the worst offensive attacks in the nation with a national ranking below 100 in rushing YPG, passing YPG, total offense and scoring, leading to speculation that Gary Crowton and Les Miles would need a stellar 2010 season to keep their jobs. Look for the Tigers' offensive attack to challenge down field and run more aggressively, as this is essentially a make or break year for LSU's coaching staff. If LSU doesn't to crack the top 20 in the rankings or fails to win a bowl game at year's end, The Hat and Gary Crowton will be cleaning out their desks.
Rich Rodriguez (Michigan)- My how the mighty have fallen. Rich Rod went from being a highly touted coaching genius after many successful seasons at West Virginia with the pistol offense and Pat White, to booed, and shunned in Ann Arbor after failing to notch a winning season at Michigan after he took over from Lloyd Carr. With an offensive scheme that doesn't work in the Big Ten, musical chairs at the quarterback position, fund spending that would make W.'s bailouts look fickle, and not to mention possible sanctions for violating practice time, Rodriguez is on the verge of being booted out of The Big House with nothing to show but bumps, bruises, and a shattered reputation. Rodriguez has yet to name a starting quarterback for the first game of the season against UCONN, whether it is sophomore Tate Forcier, freshman Devin Gardner, red shirt sophomore Jack Kennedy, or fan favorite and ESPN college football analyst, Kirk Herbstreit's, pick to start the season Denard Robinson, it is safe to say the Rich's season hinges on the first half of the season opener.....or if they beat Ohio State.
Lane Kiffin (USC)- Where do I begin with this guy. It seems that wherever he goes, he leaves a program smoldering. While he was unfairly relieved of his coaching duties in Oakland, he left the University of Tennessee waiting at the alter. In what could have been a promising tenure as the Vol's head coach, he bolted for the newly vacated, heavily scrutinized job at USC. After Pete Carroll avoided sanctions from the NCAA for recruiting violations by leaving to coach the Seattle Seahawks, Kiffin brought along his father, Monte Kiffin, and Ed Orgeron to clean house at USC. Kiffin is now being accused of major recruiting violations at Tennessee, adding to the drama being attached to one of the nations most storied programs.
Dan Hawkins (Colorado)- After three straight atrocious seasons for Colorado, Hawkins finally demoted his son, Cody, to second string quarterback in a much anticipated and hoped for move. Colorado showed some promise after Hawkins was benched during the fourth game of last season, the Buffs still finished 3-9. Not much more needed here, but if Coach Hawkins can figure out a way to win eight games this year, he might be packing up and going elsewhere.
Heisman watch-
Jake Locker (Washington)- Two words, "man child." At 6'3", 226 pounds, and a rifle for a right arm, Jake Locker is pure talent. Despite finishing 5-7, Locker led the Huskies to upsets against USC and then ranked #19 Cal at the end of the season. Look for Locker to be in New York at the Heisman trophy presentation come early 2011.
Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon State)- Some teammates call him "flash." If you've ever seen this guy tear up a football field, you know why. Boasting sub 4.3 speed and the ability to change direction with such profound ease, Ferrari is now considering employing him as an engineer (kidding), he is the pride of Corvallis and Beaver fans are confident he can lead the to a Rose Bowl berth after OSU was denied by Oregon last season in the "Civil War."
Terelle Pryor (Ohio State)- I think everyone in the country is waiting for this guy to break out. Last season showed my promise for the upcoming season as he and the rest of the Ohio State Buckeyes demolished the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl. Keep in mind Pryor played with a partially torn knee ligament. He is a virtual lock to be in New York as a nominee to win the Heisman.
Case Keenum (Houston)- No one is more deserving of the title of "gunslinger" than this guy. 2009 National Quarterback Trophy recipient, Keenum finished the season with 48 touchdowns and 5800 total yards. He led the Cougars to an upset win over then #5 Oklahoma State, he and the Cougars faltered in the final two games of the season, losing 38-32 to C-USA rival, ECU, and being romped by Air Force 47-20 in the Armed Forces Bowl. Keenum returns with many key components to a potent offense this year, so look for it to be business as usual for Keenum as he begins his ascent into college football's elite.
Mark Ingram (Alabama)- What happens when a freight train meets an frightened opposing free safety? Just watch Mark Ingram's game film from his Heisman Trophy winning season last year and you'll know. Ingram doesn't posses the shiftiness of other running backs in college football, but he can hit a defense in the mouth better than anyone else. Ingram's return will be delayed this season as he had an arthroscopic procedure done on his knee earlier this week. ESPN's Chris Low reports that Nick Saban believes that this will not hurt Ingram's season and will take his recovery one week at a time. This might damage his ability to repeat as Heisman Trophy winner, but if the SEC defensive coordinators haven't found a way to stop this guy, then he might run over everyone en route to another Heisman Trophy. (See Chris Low's report here: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=5519681)
Noel Devine (West Virginia)- Quite possibly the one thing that Rich Rodriguez didn't ruin when he left West Virginia is Noel Devine. This guy has flown under the radar most of his career and has never gotten much love from the Heisman voters, but in his three seasons at WVU he has rushed for over 3000 yards and 23 scores with career highs in rushing and scoring last year (1465 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. This guy will get his due this season as he will be sitting in between Jake Locker and Terrelle Pryor in Noe York come 2011.
Who Dat
-Kenny "Mo"
This is the second time in recent weeks that Nyjer Morgan has had issues with an opposing team. Last week, Morgan threw a ball from the outfield and hit a Phillies fan in the side of the head. Morgan was handed a suspension which he subsequently appealed, but was held out of the following game by manager Jim Riggleman to avoid any potential retaliation against him.
Now onto football...
The sun is rising on the college football season. With play beginning tomorrow, this is one of the more anticipated seasons in recent memory. Here are some top story-lines to watch for during the season:
- D-I Coaches on the hot seat:
Les Miles (LSU)- After another successful recruiting season last year, Miles and the LSU Tigers disappointed the Tiger faithful. The Tiger finished the regular season 9-3, but had one of the worst offensive attacks in the nation with a national ranking below 100 in rushing YPG, passing YPG, total offense and scoring, leading to speculation that Gary Crowton and Les Miles would need a stellar 2010 season to keep their jobs. Look for the Tigers' offensive attack to challenge down field and run more aggressively, as this is essentially a make or break year for LSU's coaching staff. If LSU doesn't to crack the top 20 in the rankings or fails to win a bowl game at year's end, The Hat and Gary Crowton will be cleaning out their desks.
Rich Rodriguez (Michigan)- My how the mighty have fallen. Rich Rod went from being a highly touted coaching genius after many successful seasons at West Virginia with the pistol offense and Pat White, to booed, and shunned in Ann Arbor after failing to notch a winning season at Michigan after he took over from Lloyd Carr. With an offensive scheme that doesn't work in the Big Ten, musical chairs at the quarterback position, fund spending that would make W.'s bailouts look fickle, and not to mention possible sanctions for violating practice time, Rodriguez is on the verge of being booted out of The Big House with nothing to show but bumps, bruises, and a shattered reputation. Rodriguez has yet to name a starting quarterback for the first game of the season against UCONN, whether it is sophomore Tate Forcier, freshman Devin Gardner, red shirt sophomore Jack Kennedy, or fan favorite and ESPN college football analyst, Kirk Herbstreit's, pick to start the season Denard Robinson, it is safe to say the Rich's season hinges on the first half of the season opener.....or if they beat Ohio State.
Lane Kiffin (USC)- Where do I begin with this guy. It seems that wherever he goes, he leaves a program smoldering. While he was unfairly relieved of his coaching duties in Oakland, he left the University of Tennessee waiting at the alter. In what could have been a promising tenure as the Vol's head coach, he bolted for the newly vacated, heavily scrutinized job at USC. After Pete Carroll avoided sanctions from the NCAA for recruiting violations by leaving to coach the Seattle Seahawks, Kiffin brought along his father, Monte Kiffin, and Ed Orgeron to clean house at USC. Kiffin is now being accused of major recruiting violations at Tennessee, adding to the drama being attached to one of the nations most storied programs.
Dan Hawkins (Colorado)- After three straight atrocious seasons for Colorado, Hawkins finally demoted his son, Cody, to second string quarterback in a much anticipated and hoped for move. Colorado showed some promise after Hawkins was benched during the fourth game of last season, the Buffs still finished 3-9. Not much more needed here, but if Coach Hawkins can figure out a way to win eight games this year, he might be packing up and going elsewhere.
Heisman watch-
Jake Locker (Washington)- Two words, "man child." At 6'3", 226 pounds, and a rifle for a right arm, Jake Locker is pure talent. Despite finishing 5-7, Locker led the Huskies to upsets against USC and then ranked #19 Cal at the end of the season. Look for Locker to be in New York at the Heisman trophy presentation come early 2011.
Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon State)- Some teammates call him "flash." If you've ever seen this guy tear up a football field, you know why. Boasting sub 4.3 speed and the ability to change direction with such profound ease, Ferrari is now considering employing him as an engineer (kidding), he is the pride of Corvallis and Beaver fans are confident he can lead the to a Rose Bowl berth after OSU was denied by Oregon last season in the "Civil War."
Terelle Pryor (Ohio State)- I think everyone in the country is waiting for this guy to break out. Last season showed my promise for the upcoming season as he and the rest of the Ohio State Buckeyes demolished the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl. Keep in mind Pryor played with a partially torn knee ligament. He is a virtual lock to be in New York as a nominee to win the Heisman.
Case Keenum (Houston)- No one is more deserving of the title of "gunslinger" than this guy. 2009 National Quarterback Trophy recipient, Keenum finished the season with 48 touchdowns and 5800 total yards. He led the Cougars to an upset win over then #5 Oklahoma State, he and the Cougars faltered in the final two games of the season, losing 38-32 to C-USA rival, ECU, and being romped by Air Force 47-20 in the Armed Forces Bowl. Keenum returns with many key components to a potent offense this year, so look for it to be business as usual for Keenum as he begins his ascent into college football's elite.
Mark Ingram (Alabama)- What happens when a freight train meets an frightened opposing free safety? Just watch Mark Ingram's game film from his Heisman Trophy winning season last year and you'll know. Ingram doesn't posses the shiftiness of other running backs in college football, but he can hit a defense in the mouth better than anyone else. Ingram's return will be delayed this season as he had an arthroscopic procedure done on his knee earlier this week. ESPN's Chris Low reports that Nick Saban believes that this will not hurt Ingram's season and will take his recovery one week at a time. This might damage his ability to repeat as Heisman Trophy winner, but if the SEC defensive coordinators haven't found a way to stop this guy, then he might run over everyone en route to another Heisman Trophy. (See Chris Low's report here: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=5519681)
Noel Devine (West Virginia)- Quite possibly the one thing that Rich Rodriguez didn't ruin when he left West Virginia is Noel Devine. This guy has flown under the radar most of his career and has never gotten much love from the Heisman voters, but in his three seasons at WVU he has rushed for over 3000 yards and 23 scores with career highs in rushing and scoring last year (1465 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. This guy will get his due this season as he will be sitting in between Jake Locker and Terrelle Pryor in Noe York come 2011.
Who Dat
-Kenny "Mo"
Welcome to Mo's Sports Blog
Hello everybody. I am Kenny Morris, or "Mo" to my friends. I grew up in Louisiana about 15 minutes outside of New Orleans, and as that might suggest I live, eat, and breathe Saints football. I am a Red Sox fan from birth as my great-great uncle, Joe Cicero, played for the Red Sox with the likes of Ted Williams and Bobby Doerr. I would like to welcome you to my sports blog. Every week, sometimes more than once, I will give my opinion on upcoming sporting events. As the college football and NFL seasons draw near, I will highlight player and team match-ups, injury reports, fantasy impact, and game analysis with expert opinions from ESPN.com, SI.com, and Fanhouse.com. I will also cover the remainder of the baseball season with analysis from the Baseball Tonight crew on ESPN.
Please leave your comments on how I can improve my blog and make it more enjoyable for you the reader.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope you enjoy the upcoming football season, and remainder of the baseball season.
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
Please leave your comments on how I can improve my blog and make it more enjoyable for you the reader.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope you enjoy the upcoming football season, and remainder of the baseball season.
WHO DAT
-Kenny "Mo"
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