That was actually a fairly decent episode of American Idol.
I expected it to be an hour of hell. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised.
* Best performance: Allison. I can already see she's gonna get screwed in the top 3, like Syesha last year (who so outsung, outperformed, and outclassed Asshat Archuleta that night that its one of the greatest crimes in Idol history that she didn't get through past that kid). But its gonna be a fun run to get there, since next week is allegedly rock week.
* Worst performance: Adam. I know, I know, the guy's going to win this thing (allegedly) in a landslide. Kind of like Asshat at this point last year huh? That thing last night was just awful. From the opening moments on the stairs, I wanted to puke. Granted, I'm probably the only person that reads this that isn't a fan of the guy. But that final note that had the judges on their knees in full on fellating position? I literally threw an empty beer can at the TV. That was so over the top, so self indulgent, so utterly devoid of any class or respect for the greatness that was the Rat Pack ... let's just move on before I throw my (still full) beer can at the computer monitor.
* Most disappointing: Matt. He should have nailed this week out of the park. He did anything but. And will probably be going home tonight as a result.
* Most surprising: Danny. I thought this would be the week that Milwaukee's second finest was sent packing. I really thought he'd struggle with this theme, and this would be the "shocking" elimination we seem to see every year (see Melinda Doolittle in season six, Daughtry and Elliott Yamin in season five, Anwar Robinson in season four, Tamyra Gray way back in season one). Instead, he delivered arguably the best performance of the night. It was him or Allison.
* Bottom three: Allison, Kris, Matt.
* Bottom two: Kris, Matt.
* Going home: Matt.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
ko reminds me again why i like him
There is nobody in the media who is more ying-yang for me than Keith Olbermann.
On the one hand, I agree with him on about 80% of the issues. And can sympathize with his position on most of the other 20%.
On the other hand, he and his network single-handedly stooped to the lowest of lows in the primary campaign in 2008, openly trashing Senator Clinton while openly pimping Senator Obama. As an ardent Hillary supporter, and OMSNBC addict ... this pissed me off to no end.
On the one hand, his rants against former President Bush were usually dead on accurate, including his demand that if the President felt Iraq was a war worth fighting, then "go lead the troops in person, sir".
On the other hand, Mr. Olbermann was too chicken, too scared, to even show up at the RNC last September for fear of ... what, exactly? Getting booed? Ridiculous.
So when I read this article ... I just had to smile. Here's hoping the rest of the media runs with this like KO is, and holds that pompous ass FOX rolls out every night at 9 eastern to his word.
(the link: http://www.kansascity.com/stargazing/story/1168354.html)
The article:
Keith Olbermann still waiting for Sean Hannity to be waterboarded
The debate over torture is getting personal for two of cable TV's prime-time hosts.
After Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity made a seemingly impromptu offer last week to undergo waterboarding as a benefit for charity, MSNBC's Keith Olbermann leapt at it. He offered $1,000 to the families of U.S. troops for every second Hannity withstood the technique.
Olbermann repeated the offer on Monday's show and said in an interview Tuesday that he's heard no response. He said he'll continue to pursue it.
"I don't think he has the courage to even respond to this — let alone do it," Olbermann said.
Fox News Channel representatives did not respond to requests for comment.
The two men are on opposite poles of a debate that has preoccupied the worlds of talk TV and radio. Hannity says waterboarding is a fair and necessary interrogation technique for suspected terrorists; Olbermann calls it torture, says it's ineffective and should not be done by Americans.
Charles Grodin was challenging Hannity on the issue on Fox last week, and asked whether he would consent to be waterboarded.
"Sure," Hannity said. "I'll do it for charity ... I'll do it for the troops' families."
It wasn't exactly clear how serious the conversation was, since Grodin joked, "Are you busy on Sunday?" and Hannity laughed.
"I'll let you do it," Hannity said.
"I wouldn't do it," Grodin said. "I'll hand you a towel when you come out of the shower."
Olbermann's offer was quick. Besides the $1,000 per second, Olbermann said he'd double it if Hannity acknowledges he feared for his life and admits that waterboarding is torture.
"The idea of putting somebody in a position they have volunteered for, for charity, to respond to their own unsupportable claims, is in many ways priceless," Olbermann said.
Olbermann, who hasn't missed any chance to criticize his ideological enemies at Fox, concedes TV competition plays a part in his offer. But he said it was sincere, because he believes Hannity has had a damaging role in the debate.
"If you expose people to reality, even with someone who is denying reality, that can have a powerful and important impact," he said.
| The Associated Press
Posted on Wed, Apr. 29, 2009 06:05 AM
On the one hand, I agree with him on about 80% of the issues. And can sympathize with his position on most of the other 20%.
On the other hand, he and his network single-handedly stooped to the lowest of lows in the primary campaign in 2008, openly trashing Senator Clinton while openly pimping Senator Obama. As an ardent Hillary supporter, and OMSNBC addict ... this pissed me off to no end.
On the one hand, his rants against former President Bush were usually dead on accurate, including his demand that if the President felt Iraq was a war worth fighting, then "go lead the troops in person, sir".
On the other hand, Mr. Olbermann was too chicken, too scared, to even show up at the RNC last September for fear of ... what, exactly? Getting booed? Ridiculous.
So when I read this article ... I just had to smile. Here's hoping the rest of the media runs with this like KO is, and holds that pompous ass FOX rolls out every night at 9 eastern to his word.
(the link: http://www.kansascity.com/stargazing/story/1168354.html)
The article:
Keith Olbermann still waiting for Sean Hannity to be waterboarded
The debate over torture is getting personal for two of cable TV's prime-time hosts.
After Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity made a seemingly impromptu offer last week to undergo waterboarding as a benefit for charity, MSNBC's Keith Olbermann leapt at it. He offered $1,000 to the families of U.S. troops for every second Hannity withstood the technique.
Olbermann repeated the offer on Monday's show and said in an interview Tuesday that he's heard no response. He said he'll continue to pursue it.
"I don't think he has the courage to even respond to this — let alone do it," Olbermann said.
Fox News Channel representatives did not respond to requests for comment.
The two men are on opposite poles of a debate that has preoccupied the worlds of talk TV and radio. Hannity says waterboarding is a fair and necessary interrogation technique for suspected terrorists; Olbermann calls it torture, says it's ineffective and should not be done by Americans.
Charles Grodin was challenging Hannity on the issue on Fox last week, and asked whether he would consent to be waterboarded.
"Sure," Hannity said. "I'll do it for charity ... I'll do it for the troops' families."
It wasn't exactly clear how serious the conversation was, since Grodin joked, "Are you busy on Sunday?" and Hannity laughed.
"I'll let you do it," Hannity said.
"I wouldn't do it," Grodin said. "I'll hand you a towel when you come out of the shower."
Olbermann's offer was quick. Besides the $1,000 per second, Olbermann said he'd double it if Hannity acknowledges he feared for his life and admits that waterboarding is torture.
"The idea of putting somebody in a position they have volunteered for, for charity, to respond to their own unsupportable claims, is in many ways priceless," Olbermann said.
Olbermann, who hasn't missed any chance to criticize his ideological enemies at Fox, concedes TV competition plays a part in his offer. But he said it was sincere, because he believes Hannity has had a damaging role in the debate.
"If you expose people to reality, even with someone who is denying reality, that can have a powerful and important impact," he said.
| The Associated Press
Posted on Wed, Apr. 29, 2009 06:05 AM
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
where amazing keeps friggin happening!
I intended for tonight's post to be about either American Idol, or the "cancellation of the Dusty and Steve Show". (Although we were never a cornerstone of anyone's Wednesday night lineup, like "Dogs Humping", we still had comedic value, I swear. My one follower can back me up on this. Seeing as how she was the mistress in the relationship ...)
And I'm sure that tomorrow, I can get around to at least one of those topics. (One will be kind of tough to type up, so bear with me).
But once again, THE best playoff series in at least 7 years, has interrupted my plans.
Boston 106, Chicago 104, overtime.
Four overtimes in five games.
First time in NBA history a series has had 3 OT games.
Ben Gordon going 50 plus minutes on a friggin strained hamstring.
Boston overcoming a 16 point deficit in the 4th quarter ... without Ray Allen. And KG. And Leon Powe.
Derrick Rose continuing to make me thank God above that he somehow, someway had that brain fart at the free throw line with 7.6 to go in the National Title game a year ago.
P squared just increasing in value that autograph that Snodgrass once asked for from him. Hitting the game tying shot with 10 seconds left. Hitting the game winner with 2.7 seconds left in overtime. And having the composure to intentionally miss the free throw properly with 1.3 to go, unlike Chicago at the other end.
Like my brother and I were saying the entire 4th quarter and overtime, why does this series have to end? Let 'em play best of 19!
This is the best playoff series the League has had to offer since Sacramento / LA in 2002. And that series took a while to get going, no classic moments until Bibby's dagger to end game 5, and the Lakers epic comeback in game 6, culminating in a game 7 OT classic that saw LA advance to their third straight title.
Yeah, Dallas / San Antonio 3 years ago was great. Philly / Milwaukee in the 2001 Eastern Finals was another showcase series. And 2000, when Portland had the Lakers on the ropes, down 10 in game 7, and p*ssed it away, that's as great a comeback as you'll see. But this ... this series is just incredible.
4 game winning shots with less than 3 seconds left. Only one game not decided either (a) as the buzzer expired or (b) in overtime. I can't wait for game 6!
(And the game 7 the refs will ensure we get to).
Hey, what happened to the NBA critic that used to rip me in the comments? Chris, where you at champ? I defy you to find one way to criticize this series as anything but epic ...
And I'm sure that tomorrow, I can get around to at least one of those topics. (One will be kind of tough to type up, so bear with me).
But once again, THE best playoff series in at least 7 years, has interrupted my plans.
Boston 106, Chicago 104, overtime.
Four overtimes in five games.
First time in NBA history a series has had 3 OT games.
Ben Gordon going 50 plus minutes on a friggin strained hamstring.
Boston overcoming a 16 point deficit in the 4th quarter ... without Ray Allen. And KG. And Leon Powe.
Derrick Rose continuing to make me thank God above that he somehow, someway had that brain fart at the free throw line with 7.6 to go in the National Title game a year ago.
P squared just increasing in value that autograph that Snodgrass once asked for from him. Hitting the game tying shot with 10 seconds left. Hitting the game winner with 2.7 seconds left in overtime. And having the composure to intentionally miss the free throw properly with 1.3 to go, unlike Chicago at the other end.
Like my brother and I were saying the entire 4th quarter and overtime, why does this series have to end? Let 'em play best of 19!
This is the best playoff series the League has had to offer since Sacramento / LA in 2002. And that series took a while to get going, no classic moments until Bibby's dagger to end game 5, and the Lakers epic comeback in game 6, culminating in a game 7 OT classic that saw LA advance to their third straight title.
Yeah, Dallas / San Antonio 3 years ago was great. Philly / Milwaukee in the 2001 Eastern Finals was another showcase series. And 2000, when Portland had the Lakers on the ropes, down 10 in game 7, and p*ssed it away, that's as great a comeback as you'll see. But this ... this series is just incredible.
4 game winning shots with less than 3 seconds left. Only one game not decided either (a) as the buzzer expired or (b) in overtime. I can't wait for game 6!
(And the game 7 the refs will ensure we get to).
Hey, what happened to the NBA critic that used to rip me in the comments? Chris, where you at champ? I defy you to find one way to criticize this series as anything but epic ...
Thursday, April 23, 2009
steve predicts sunday's race
This used to be my favorite weekend of the year ... when they ran the races in the beautiful, awe-inspiring, wonderful 105 degree heat of July.
Now? The weather's a crapshoot, although Sunday looks good so far, high 70s and mostly sunny. (I have said this before, and I'll say it again: any day where you can sit around outside, drink in the sun, and have no use for a t-shirt, THAT is my kind of day! A couple more degrees and Sunday might fit that category ...)
Plus, the other thing I used to love -- LOVE -- about the old IRL was the driving. You had a handful of drivers (if you were lucky) that were actually talented enough and qualified to be out there driving. Sam Hornish Jr. Tony Stewart. (occasionally) Scott Sharp. (I think he was but others disagree) Eddie Cheever Jr. That's about it. The other 20 competitors were basically lethal weapons ready to explode. Who can forget such lovable losers as George Mack. Robbie Buhl. Elizeo Salazar. Greg Ray. Robbie McGehee. (the great paul page voice) Felipe Giaffone! Airton Dare (who actually won this damned race somehow, in 2002). And everyone's favorite, Billy Boat. The man who they should name Bump Day after, since he always was on the Bump every damned year.
See, these dangerous drivers were always good for a death-defying wreck or three every week. Now? The field is much better, these guys can't find work, and somehow, I feel sad about that. I feel like a part of me has died, by not getting to see these guys risk injury to every driver and fan in attendance on a weekly basis.
Plus, how can you forget THE greatest moment in IRL history, the 2001 night race at Texas, when Eddie Cheever, Scott Sharp, and the aforementioned Greg Ray (in the Trim Spa mobile that night ... yeah, a dude driving a Trim Spa car. Not quite as bad as Cheever winning Indy in the Rachel's Potato Chips mobile, but still ...), anyways, when those three drove "three abreast!" for nearly 200 friggin laps! Talk about insanity! Pull up the clip on youtube! sometime and just listen to the fear, the abject "holy sh*t this is insane!" panic in Bob Jenkins' voice. "This will never work! ... yes it will!"
Oh well. (t.i. feat. justin timberlake voice) Dead and gone, dead and gone ...
Anyways, here's my predicted finish for Sunday's Road Runner 300 at beautiful Kansas Speedway.
22. TBA, Dreyer and Reinbold Racing. I have no idea who they're fielding in this ride, but (gregg voice) its Dreyer and Reinbold Racing! They suck!
21. Mike Conway, Dreyer and Reinbold Racing. Set aside the fact that the dude hasn't finished a race yet. This is his unbelievable stat -- he's been in not one, not two, but three wrecks already. Three! And there's only been two races! Call me crazy, but when your wreck to races ratio is HIGHER than one, that ain't good.
20. Raphael Matos, Luczo Dragon Racing. I have no idea who this dude is. This was Crash Scheckter's car last year, so he's a definite step down from that guy's talent. Sounds like an engine failure on lap 120 waiting to happen.
19. Robert Doornbox, Newman / Haas / Lanigan Racing. A newbie to the IRL this year. I'm guessing this is his first oval race. Not a good sign of things to come.
18. Sarah Fisher, Sarah Fisher Racing. I will boo her mercilessly during driver intros. Assuming I stumble in from tailgating before she's introduced, of course. Which is not guaranteed to happen.
17. Stanton Barrett, CURB / Team 3G Racing. Yes, it is that Stanton Barrett. No, he did not magically learn how to drive after bombing out of not one, not two, but all three of NASCAR's top circuits. Yes, he will cause a major racing incident at some point this year that might take another driver's life. Good times.
16. Hideki Mutoh, Andretti / Green Racing. From this point on, any of these folks can win this thing. Including Mr. Mutoh. Whoever the hell he is.
15. Mario Moraes, KV Racing Technology. He actually ran fairly well on ovals last year, one of the better CART folks on them. Could have a solid middle of the pack showing on Sunday.
14. EJ Viso, HVM Racing. Another solid middle of the pack guy who won't embarrass himself. Yet another reason I miss the "old" Indy Racing League, the guys who couldn't help but embarrass themselves on a weekly basis. Like AJ Foyt and Arie Luyendyk throwing down in Victory Lane. Or teammates Eddie Cheever and Crash Scheckter wrecking each other out on lap 3. Or Scott Sharp wrecking on the first turn of the first lap at Indy ... from the pole. Good stuff.
13. Scott Dixon, Target Chip Ganassi Racing. Scotty's been off so far this year, with two sluggish showings so far. I say he hits the trifecta of heartbreak and wrecks out on lap 146.
12. Graham Rahal, Newman / Haas / Lanigan Racing. The rivalry with this guy and Marco Andretti the next 8 to 10 years is going to be freaking awesome to watch unfold. Speaking of great old racing memories, Graham's dad, the 1986 Indy 500 winner, in the "Sleep Cheap" mobile! That never gets old.
11. Ed Carpenter, Vision Racing. I like Ed, a lot actually. I hope he does quite well on Sunday. I just can't predict him to finish top 10 given the ten remaining drivers I have to slot.
10. Dario Franchitti, Target Chip Ganassi Racing. Last week's winner at Long Beach. Rock solid driver back in the big leagues after a sideshow stop in NASCAR. And who can ever forget the beautiful site of wife Ashley Judd running in a friggin monsoon down the frontstretch at Indy in that dress after he won the 500 ... holy lord I need a shower and a cigarette before softball tonight after remembering that beautiful site ...
9. Justin Wilson, Dale Coyne Racing. Good driver, good team, but wasn't so good on ovals last year. If you're gonna compete at Indy, you gotta be competitive at Kansas.
8. Ryan Hunter-Reay, Vision Racing. I used to love this guy in Champ Car. Then he disappeared for a while. Not sure where he went to, but hey, now he's back. Good for him. Should have a solid second pack showing on Sunday.
7. Vitor Meira, AJ Foyt Enterprises. Sweet Jesus, how the good have fallen. Yes, I am fully aware that Mr. Meira has never won a race. But to fall from a decent Panther team to this? To AJ Foyt? To a man who fields rides for his loser son (Larry) and even less talented grandson (AJ IV) at Indy every year? Poor Vitor. If I was him, I'd ask my boss to pass the scotch.
6. Tony Kanaan, Andretti / Green Racing. A past winner of this event, I believe in 2005 if I'm not mistaken. Should run up front all day long barring some unforeseen situation.
5. Ryan Briscoe, Team Penske. Since I'm going as a guest of Team Penske to this thing, Go Ryan Go! Pick me up a pack of Marlboro Red's too for tailgating while you're at it, I need to look the part of a race fan ...
(seriously, I get asked that at least 4 or 5 times every year. How in the hell am I a race fan? I mean, add it up. I don't smoke, I have all of my teeth, I don't have a GED, I don't drive a pickup truck with a gun rack on the back, I'm a registered Democrat and (still bitter) ardent Hillary supporter, I have never had sex with a relative, I mean the list goes on and on. The answer is simple: first, the IRL is amazing in person. The roar of the engines, the speed of the cars, its just breathtaking to take in. But mostly, race tailgating is a bunch of drunks sitting around with a shirt off doing what they do best: drinkin' in the sun. Yup, that's me. I am Indy! OK, back to the predictions ...)
4. Marco Andretti, Andretti / Green Racing. The last 10 miles of the 2006 Indy 500 were just about the best 10 miles of racing I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. Marco's father, so close to winning the only thing he never achieved in his amazing career ... passed by Marco ... who is passed by Hornish at the gun. Marco can drive. He'll do well on Sunday.
3. Helio Castroneves, Team Penske. Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back!!! Thank God he beat the tax evasion charges. Of course, this disqualifies him from serving in the Obama administration now, since he didn't actually cheat on his taxes, but still, welcome back Helio!!!
2. Danica Patrick, Andretti / Green Racing. She's been on the pole before. (For this race, come on, what did you think I mean, on the main stage at the Outhouse?) She finally broke through in the win column last year in Japan. She's due for win number two. And it would be really neat to see her win. But I can't pick her. Because instead, my predicted champ is:
1. Dan Wheldon, Panther Racing. He's won the last two races at Kansas. He finished 5th last week at Long Beach. He's still (in my never humble opinion) the most talented driver in the league. I'm not betting against him. (Which probably means all of you should ...)
Now? The weather's a crapshoot, although Sunday looks good so far, high 70s and mostly sunny. (I have said this before, and I'll say it again: any day where you can sit around outside, drink in the sun, and have no use for a t-shirt, THAT is my kind of day! A couple more degrees and Sunday might fit that category ...)
Plus, the other thing I used to love -- LOVE -- about the old IRL was the driving. You had a handful of drivers (if you were lucky) that were actually talented enough and qualified to be out there driving. Sam Hornish Jr. Tony Stewart. (occasionally) Scott Sharp. (I think he was but others disagree) Eddie Cheever Jr. That's about it. The other 20 competitors were basically lethal weapons ready to explode. Who can forget such lovable losers as George Mack. Robbie Buhl. Elizeo Salazar. Greg Ray. Robbie McGehee. (the great paul page voice) Felipe Giaffone! Airton Dare (who actually won this damned race somehow, in 2002). And everyone's favorite, Billy Boat. The man who they should name Bump Day after, since he always was on the Bump every damned year.
See, these dangerous drivers were always good for a death-defying wreck or three every week. Now? The field is much better, these guys can't find work, and somehow, I feel sad about that. I feel like a part of me has died, by not getting to see these guys risk injury to every driver and fan in attendance on a weekly basis.
Plus, how can you forget THE greatest moment in IRL history, the 2001 night race at Texas, when Eddie Cheever, Scott Sharp, and the aforementioned Greg Ray (in the Trim Spa mobile that night ... yeah, a dude driving a Trim Spa car. Not quite as bad as Cheever winning Indy in the Rachel's Potato Chips mobile, but still ...), anyways, when those three drove "three abreast!" for nearly 200 friggin laps! Talk about insanity! Pull up the clip on youtube! sometime and just listen to the fear, the abject "holy sh*t this is insane!" panic in Bob Jenkins' voice. "This will never work! ... yes it will!"
Oh well. (t.i. feat. justin timberlake voice) Dead and gone, dead and gone ...
Anyways, here's my predicted finish for Sunday's Road Runner 300 at beautiful Kansas Speedway.
22. TBA, Dreyer and Reinbold Racing. I have no idea who they're fielding in this ride, but (gregg voice) its Dreyer and Reinbold Racing! They suck!
21. Mike Conway, Dreyer and Reinbold Racing. Set aside the fact that the dude hasn't finished a race yet. This is his unbelievable stat -- he's been in not one, not two, but three wrecks already. Three! And there's only been two races! Call me crazy, but when your wreck to races ratio is HIGHER than one, that ain't good.
20. Raphael Matos, Luczo Dragon Racing. I have no idea who this dude is. This was Crash Scheckter's car last year, so he's a definite step down from that guy's talent. Sounds like an engine failure on lap 120 waiting to happen.
19. Robert Doornbox, Newman / Haas / Lanigan Racing. A newbie to the IRL this year. I'm guessing this is his first oval race. Not a good sign of things to come.
18. Sarah Fisher, Sarah Fisher Racing. I will boo her mercilessly during driver intros. Assuming I stumble in from tailgating before she's introduced, of course. Which is not guaranteed to happen.
17. Stanton Barrett, CURB / Team 3G Racing. Yes, it is that Stanton Barrett. No, he did not magically learn how to drive after bombing out of not one, not two, but all three of NASCAR's top circuits. Yes, he will cause a major racing incident at some point this year that might take another driver's life. Good times.
16. Hideki Mutoh, Andretti / Green Racing. From this point on, any of these folks can win this thing. Including Mr. Mutoh. Whoever the hell he is.
15. Mario Moraes, KV Racing Technology. He actually ran fairly well on ovals last year, one of the better CART folks on them. Could have a solid middle of the pack showing on Sunday.
14. EJ Viso, HVM Racing. Another solid middle of the pack guy who won't embarrass himself. Yet another reason I miss the "old" Indy Racing League, the guys who couldn't help but embarrass themselves on a weekly basis. Like AJ Foyt and Arie Luyendyk throwing down in Victory Lane. Or teammates Eddie Cheever and Crash Scheckter wrecking each other out on lap 3. Or Scott Sharp wrecking on the first turn of the first lap at Indy ... from the pole. Good stuff.
13. Scott Dixon, Target Chip Ganassi Racing. Scotty's been off so far this year, with two sluggish showings so far. I say he hits the trifecta of heartbreak and wrecks out on lap 146.
12. Graham Rahal, Newman / Haas / Lanigan Racing. The rivalry with this guy and Marco Andretti the next 8 to 10 years is going to be freaking awesome to watch unfold. Speaking of great old racing memories, Graham's dad, the 1986 Indy 500 winner, in the "Sleep Cheap" mobile! That never gets old.
11. Ed Carpenter, Vision Racing. I like Ed, a lot actually. I hope he does quite well on Sunday. I just can't predict him to finish top 10 given the ten remaining drivers I have to slot.
10. Dario Franchitti, Target Chip Ganassi Racing. Last week's winner at Long Beach. Rock solid driver back in the big leagues after a sideshow stop in NASCAR. And who can ever forget the beautiful site of wife Ashley Judd running in a friggin monsoon down the frontstretch at Indy in that dress after he won the 500 ... holy lord I need a shower and a cigarette before softball tonight after remembering that beautiful site ...
9. Justin Wilson, Dale Coyne Racing. Good driver, good team, but wasn't so good on ovals last year. If you're gonna compete at Indy, you gotta be competitive at Kansas.
8. Ryan Hunter-Reay, Vision Racing. I used to love this guy in Champ Car. Then he disappeared for a while. Not sure where he went to, but hey, now he's back. Good for him. Should have a solid second pack showing on Sunday.
7. Vitor Meira, AJ Foyt Enterprises. Sweet Jesus, how the good have fallen. Yes, I am fully aware that Mr. Meira has never won a race. But to fall from a decent Panther team to this? To AJ Foyt? To a man who fields rides for his loser son (Larry) and even less talented grandson (AJ IV) at Indy every year? Poor Vitor. If I was him, I'd ask my boss to pass the scotch.
6. Tony Kanaan, Andretti / Green Racing. A past winner of this event, I believe in 2005 if I'm not mistaken. Should run up front all day long barring some unforeseen situation.
5. Ryan Briscoe, Team Penske. Since I'm going as a guest of Team Penske to this thing, Go Ryan Go! Pick me up a pack of Marlboro Red's too for tailgating while you're at it, I need to look the part of a race fan ...
(seriously, I get asked that at least 4 or 5 times every year. How in the hell am I a race fan? I mean, add it up. I don't smoke, I have all of my teeth, I don't have a GED, I don't drive a pickup truck with a gun rack on the back, I'm a registered Democrat and (still bitter) ardent Hillary supporter, I have never had sex with a relative, I mean the list goes on and on. The answer is simple: first, the IRL is amazing in person. The roar of the engines, the speed of the cars, its just breathtaking to take in. But mostly, race tailgating is a bunch of drunks sitting around with a shirt off doing what they do best: drinkin' in the sun. Yup, that's me. I am Indy! OK, back to the predictions ...)
4. Marco Andretti, Andretti / Green Racing. The last 10 miles of the 2006 Indy 500 were just about the best 10 miles of racing I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. Marco's father, so close to winning the only thing he never achieved in his amazing career ... passed by Marco ... who is passed by Hornish at the gun. Marco can drive. He'll do well on Sunday.
3. Helio Castroneves, Team Penske. Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back!!! Thank God he beat the tax evasion charges. Of course, this disqualifies him from serving in the Obama administration now, since he didn't actually cheat on his taxes, but still, welcome back Helio!!!
2. Danica Patrick, Andretti / Green Racing. She's been on the pole before. (For this race, come on, what did you think I mean, on the main stage at the Outhouse?) She finally broke through in the win column last year in Japan. She's due for win number two. And it would be really neat to see her win. But I can't pick her. Because instead, my predicted champ is:
1. Dan Wheldon, Panther Racing. He's won the last two races at Kansas. He finished 5th last week at Long Beach. He's still (in my never humble opinion) the most talented driver in the league. I'm not betting against him. (Which probably means all of you should ...)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
american idol top 7 part 2 ... live blog
We're live here at Steve World Headquarters (aka my couch).
I'm hoping Matt delivers tonight. I'm hoping Little Rounds graces my television with her presence for the next to final time (tomorrow night's eviction being the final one).
And I'm praying that Adam covers "Dancing Queen". Or "She Works Hard for the Money". (So Hard for the Money! So hard for it honey! She works hard for the money so you better treat her right!)
Hopefully tomorrow a special treat will await the reading public. Something that involves you using something other than your eyes to enjoy the site. Guess we'll know once G and I try to get the podcast laid down again tonight.
Probably should mention I'm logged into yahoo! IM as teamtito15 if you want to participate. Or post your comments by clicking where it says "comments".
Back in 15 when the debacle begins.
And we're back.
Go Matt Go! Vote often tonight folks, keep Mr. Giraud in this thing.
The roommate's in a foul mood tonight. Woo.
Our judges being introduced. Pauler looks stunning as always.
It appears Little Rounds is up first. Chaka Khan's "I'm Every Woman". No mentor montage this week apparently.
Good Lord I hate this chick.
Pauler up and dancing already. Sweet Jesus.
Another perfectly mediocre performance that makes me want to shove a stick where the sun don't shine. And the ending is horrid, she whiffed on multiple notes. (gregg and steve's old front porch mat voice) GO AWAY!
Randy says it sounded "wild". Little looks apoplectic. Good. GO AWAY! New judge says this "wasn't worth the wait". Why did it takes these dunces on the panel 6 weeks to figure out what I knew 6 weeks ago? Pauler hauling out the "she was sick" excuse. Something about tapping into her inner goddess. Simon says Little "looks so sad". Simon says she's going home. Halle-effing-lujah.
Little is in utter denial. Kind of like me about Matt's chances of winning this competition.
If anyone reading this votes 1-866-IDOLS01 or texts 5701 for this abortion of a singer, I'm going to be angry. (grizzley bear voice) GRRRRRRRRR!
I think they said Kris was next. I'd rewind it but getting a frosty cold beer has priority right now. Back in (chuck woolery voice) 2 and 2.
Yes, Kris is next. Go Kris Go!
YES! "She Works Hard for the Money!" Holy sh*t, THIS is American Idol!
Seacrest calls it a "song about a woman with a great work ethic". You can't make this stuff up.
Kris kind of taking this into a Latin version.
I predict the judges will hate this ... and I absolutely LOVED it! That did not suck.
The audience ate this up. New judge LOVED it! Wow, we finally agree! Pauler says ... hang on, I'm rewinding this to get it verbatim:
"It had a kind of classy, Santana feel to it, and I gotta tell you Kris, you know, a lot of women will shop the men's department but (audience laughing) there aren't (awkward pause) many men willing to shop in the women's (kris laughing with embarrassment) and you shopped and found a perfect fit!"
They won't let go of this analogy. Simon loved it as well. And drops a women's underwear joke. Oy.
All four judges on board!
I can honestly say, the only two contestants I'd download their efforts off of iTunes for, would be Matt and Kris. Maybe Adam. So seeing a Steve favorite do well is a good thing.
Allison and Danny after the break.
Really, I can't give Kris enough praise. That was amazing. I can't wait to download that on iTunes tomorrow. Last week he was really good with "Falling Slowly". That was beyond really good. That was top 20 of all time on this show good.
Danny doing "September" by one of my favorite bands, Earth Wind and Fire. Let's see how this goes.
He just effed up the lyrics to open the chorus. The verse was horrid as well. You are no Verdine White or Philip Bailey, sir. You aren't equipped to sniff their jock strap, let alone carry it.
Awful. Awful performance. I'm booing the TV as we go to Randy.
Randy heard something that wasn't there (talent). New judge slurps it up like a top flight adult female entertainer. Pauler making no sense, but I think she's turned on right now. Simon blasts the performance part, but says everything else was fine. Good grief.
"Hot Stuff" by Donna Summer performed by Allison next. I am looking forward to this tremendously.
Oh. My. God. Awesome opening. Awesome.
She's taking this emo rock! Holy cow! This is incredible!
I need a cold shower after hearing her "Hot Stuff".
Holy moly. That was HOT!, to pull out my Randy voice.
RJ up first. Blasts the arrangement, but praises the vocal. I'm good with that. What in the hell are these judges listening to? Are they deaf? That was AMAZING! At least they agree with me on the vocals. More senseless ramblings from one Pauler Abdul. Simon calls it a "brilliant performance". Amen Cowell, amen.
Adam up next, and he's in the mosh pit. Oh my.
"If I Can't Have You" by Yvonne Elliman. Considering "Saturday Night Fever" is one of my favorite movies, and this song is one of its key moments ...
He's slowed it down to open ... and I'm liking it.
I liked it until the chorus. This is a disaster. His voice is screeching, its too slow, this is ... this is not good.
I predict the judges will love it. But its not worth listening to again.
Randy verbally fellating him. I don't get it. Kara calls him "brilliant". Pauler is in tears. I'm not joking, she's friggin crying. She's also trembling like she just had the orgasm of a lifetime. Simon loved it as well.
Matt up next. Oh no, hinting that its "Stayin' Alive".
This Capital One "marooned on the island" ad is quite possibly the single most retarded ad I've ever seen in my life.
One of the Nelson twins on the aisle.
"Stayin Alive", Matty style.
THAT ... is why I've backed this kid from the beginning! Hell yes you're staying alive! 1-866-IDOLS06, 5706 on text. Allegedly you can vote on Skype as well for the chica reading this overseas. VOTE FOR MATT! Holy crap, that was good!
Can't wait to see how the judges trash him.
Randy, I think, liked it. "You can sing even though I didn't love the song". New judge says he "brought disco back". She compares this to Adam's performance. Pauler hauling out the bowling analogy ... and STEE-RIKE! Says "you're staying!" Simon says? He didn't like it. Calls it a "bit desperate", he didn't "hear any originality". What? What the hell are you listening to Cowell?
1-866-IDOLS06, text 5706. Do your part readers. Do your part!
Anoop closes us down after the break.
And we're back. "Dim all the Lights" by Donna Summer.
I thought it was decent. But he's in trouble.
Judges rushing through the comments.
I agree with RJ: the top 7 is tremendously talented. (Save for Little Rounds).
Pauler: "real men know how to wear pink". Uuh, ok.
Simon calls it "mediocre at best". It wasn't that bad, but I think he's done after that.
Bottom three: Danny, Little Rounds, Anoop.
Going home: Little Rounds, Anoop.
Best performance: Kris, by a country mile.
Worst performance: Little Rounds. Just get rid of her already.
I'm hoping Matt delivers tonight. I'm hoping Little Rounds graces my television with her presence for the next to final time (tomorrow night's eviction being the final one).
And I'm praying that Adam covers "Dancing Queen". Or "She Works Hard for the Money". (So Hard for the Money! So hard for it honey! She works hard for the money so you better treat her right!)
Hopefully tomorrow a special treat will await the reading public. Something that involves you using something other than your eyes to enjoy the site. Guess we'll know once G and I try to get the podcast laid down again tonight.
Probably should mention I'm logged into yahoo! IM as teamtito15 if you want to participate. Or post your comments by clicking where it says "comments".
Back in 15 when the debacle begins.
And we're back.
Go Matt Go! Vote often tonight folks, keep Mr. Giraud in this thing.
The roommate's in a foul mood tonight. Woo.
Our judges being introduced. Pauler looks stunning as always.
It appears Little Rounds is up first. Chaka Khan's "I'm Every Woman". No mentor montage this week apparently.
Good Lord I hate this chick.
Pauler up and dancing already. Sweet Jesus.
Another perfectly mediocre performance that makes me want to shove a stick where the sun don't shine. And the ending is horrid, she whiffed on multiple notes. (gregg and steve's old front porch mat voice) GO AWAY!
Randy says it sounded "wild". Little looks apoplectic. Good. GO AWAY! New judge says this "wasn't worth the wait". Why did it takes these dunces on the panel 6 weeks to figure out what I knew 6 weeks ago? Pauler hauling out the "she was sick" excuse. Something about tapping into her inner goddess. Simon says Little "looks so sad". Simon says she's going home. Halle-effing-lujah.
Little is in utter denial. Kind of like me about Matt's chances of winning this competition.
If anyone reading this votes 1-866-IDOLS01 or texts 5701 for this abortion of a singer, I'm going to be angry. (grizzley bear voice) GRRRRRRRRR!
I think they said Kris was next. I'd rewind it but getting a frosty cold beer has priority right now. Back in (chuck woolery voice) 2 and 2.
Yes, Kris is next. Go Kris Go!
YES! "She Works Hard for the Money!" Holy sh*t, THIS is American Idol!
Seacrest calls it a "song about a woman with a great work ethic". You can't make this stuff up.
Kris kind of taking this into a Latin version.
I predict the judges will hate this ... and I absolutely LOVED it! That did not suck.
The audience ate this up. New judge LOVED it! Wow, we finally agree! Pauler says ... hang on, I'm rewinding this to get it verbatim:
"It had a kind of classy, Santana feel to it, and I gotta tell you Kris, you know, a lot of women will shop the men's department but (audience laughing) there aren't (awkward pause) many men willing to shop in the women's (kris laughing with embarrassment) and you shopped and found a perfect fit!"
They won't let go of this analogy. Simon loved it as well. And drops a women's underwear joke. Oy.
All four judges on board!
I can honestly say, the only two contestants I'd download their efforts off of iTunes for, would be Matt and Kris. Maybe Adam. So seeing a Steve favorite do well is a good thing.
Allison and Danny after the break.
Really, I can't give Kris enough praise. That was amazing. I can't wait to download that on iTunes tomorrow. Last week he was really good with "Falling Slowly". That was beyond really good. That was top 20 of all time on this show good.
Danny doing "September" by one of my favorite bands, Earth Wind and Fire. Let's see how this goes.
He just effed up the lyrics to open the chorus. The verse was horrid as well. You are no Verdine White or Philip Bailey, sir. You aren't equipped to sniff their jock strap, let alone carry it.
Awful. Awful performance. I'm booing the TV as we go to Randy.
Randy heard something that wasn't there (talent). New judge slurps it up like a top flight adult female entertainer. Pauler making no sense, but I think she's turned on right now. Simon blasts the performance part, but says everything else was fine. Good grief.
"Hot Stuff" by Donna Summer performed by Allison next. I am looking forward to this tremendously.
Oh. My. God. Awesome opening. Awesome.
She's taking this emo rock! Holy cow! This is incredible!
I need a cold shower after hearing her "Hot Stuff".
Holy moly. That was HOT!, to pull out my Randy voice.
RJ up first. Blasts the arrangement, but praises the vocal. I'm good with that. What in the hell are these judges listening to? Are they deaf? That was AMAZING! At least they agree with me on the vocals. More senseless ramblings from one Pauler Abdul. Simon calls it a "brilliant performance". Amen Cowell, amen.
Adam up next, and he's in the mosh pit. Oh my.
"If I Can't Have You" by Yvonne Elliman. Considering "Saturday Night Fever" is one of my favorite movies, and this song is one of its key moments ...
He's slowed it down to open ... and I'm liking it.
I liked it until the chorus. This is a disaster. His voice is screeching, its too slow, this is ... this is not good.
I predict the judges will love it. But its not worth listening to again.
Randy verbally fellating him. I don't get it. Kara calls him "brilliant". Pauler is in tears. I'm not joking, she's friggin crying. She's also trembling like she just had the orgasm of a lifetime. Simon loved it as well.
Matt up next. Oh no, hinting that its "Stayin' Alive".
This Capital One "marooned on the island" ad is quite possibly the single most retarded ad I've ever seen in my life.
One of the Nelson twins on the aisle.
"Stayin Alive", Matty style.
THAT ... is why I've backed this kid from the beginning! Hell yes you're staying alive! 1-866-IDOLS06, 5706 on text. Allegedly you can vote on Skype as well for the chica reading this overseas. VOTE FOR MATT! Holy crap, that was good!
Can't wait to see how the judges trash him.
Randy, I think, liked it. "You can sing even though I didn't love the song". New judge says he "brought disco back". She compares this to Adam's performance. Pauler hauling out the bowling analogy ... and STEE-RIKE! Says "you're staying!" Simon says? He didn't like it. Calls it a "bit desperate", he didn't "hear any originality". What? What the hell are you listening to Cowell?
1-866-IDOLS06, text 5706. Do your part readers. Do your part!
Anoop closes us down after the break.
And we're back. "Dim all the Lights" by Donna Summer.
I thought it was decent. But he's in trouble.
Judges rushing through the comments.
I agree with RJ: the top 7 is tremendously talented. (Save for Little Rounds).
Pauler: "real men know how to wear pink". Uuh, ok.
Simon calls it "mediocre at best". It wasn't that bad, but I think he's done after that.
Bottom three: Danny, Little Rounds, Anoop.
Going home: Little Rounds, Anoop.
Best performance: Kris, by a country mile.
Worst performance: Little Rounds. Just get rid of her already.
Monday, April 20, 2009
where amazing happens on day three
Holy Lord.
Let 'em play again.
Let 'em play every damned second of the potentially scheduled seven games.
Hell, let 'em play every second of seventeen potential games.
We're 103 minutes into this series ... and already we've had two Instant Classics.
Celtics 118, Bulls 115, on Ray Allen's two huge, season saving three pointers inside of a minute to go.
Look it, I unapologetically defend the NBA over college hoops. I think the pro game is so far superior to the college game, that I wonder why people even try to compare the two. The only edge the college game sometimes has is legitimate home court advantage in the regular season.
And that argument is rendered mute in the postseason. The Garden was rocking tonight. They helped will the champs to save their season.
No, its not a perfect league. The refereeing is shady at best. There are serious financial and labor issues on the horizon due to our reeling economy. But once again, the NBA showed why its the best postseason in sports.
Celtics 118, Bulls 115.
Let 'em play again! (Sweet!, they do Thursday night ...)
Let 'em play again.
Let 'em play every damned second of the potentially scheduled seven games.
Hell, let 'em play every second of seventeen potential games.
We're 103 minutes into this series ... and already we've had two Instant Classics.
Celtics 118, Bulls 115, on Ray Allen's two huge, season saving three pointers inside of a minute to go.
Look it, I unapologetically defend the NBA over college hoops. I think the pro game is so far superior to the college game, that I wonder why people even try to compare the two. The only edge the college game sometimes has is legitimate home court advantage in the regular season.
And that argument is rendered mute in the postseason. The Garden was rocking tonight. They helped will the champs to save their season.
No, its not a perfect league. The refereeing is shady at best. There are serious financial and labor issues on the horizon due to our reeling economy. But once again, the NBA showed why its the best postseason in sports.
Celtics 118, Bulls 115.
Let 'em play again! (Sweet!, they do Thursday night ...)
Saturday, April 18, 2009
amazing happens on day one
If you missed today's Celtics / Bulls overtime classic to open the NBA postseason ... too bad.
Derrick friggin Rose was a man among boys today. His first ever playoff game, he drops 36 points on the defending champs, on 80% shooting from the floor, 100% shooting from the line (including two huge, clutch free throws with 11 seconds left in regulation to put Chicago up one). It was just ... amazing.
36 is apparently the 2nd highest total ever scored by a player making his postseason debut. Chris Paul had 38 last year against Dallas. Rose tied Wilt Chamberlain with his 36. That's pretty amazing company.
My man crush makes his playoff debut at 9:30 CT tonight in (go figure) the Rose Garden against the Rockets. I can't wait to see what Brandon Roy and the Blazers have in store for us tonight. (And the first game of the evening, Mavs / Spurs, figures to be another instant classic).
The NBA: Yes, it is where Amazing Happens. Daily!
(Definitely check out the replay of today's game on NBA TV when it airs this week, its worth the 3 hour investment of your time).
Derrick friggin Rose was a man among boys today. His first ever playoff game, he drops 36 points on the defending champs, on 80% shooting from the floor, 100% shooting from the line (including two huge, clutch free throws with 11 seconds left in regulation to put Chicago up one). It was just ... amazing.
36 is apparently the 2nd highest total ever scored by a player making his postseason debut. Chris Paul had 38 last year against Dallas. Rose tied Wilt Chamberlain with his 36. That's pretty amazing company.
My man crush makes his playoff debut at 9:30 CT tonight in (go figure) the Rose Garden against the Rockets. I can't wait to see what Brandon Roy and the Blazers have in store for us tonight. (And the first game of the evening, Mavs / Spurs, figures to be another instant classic).
The NBA: Yes, it is where Amazing Happens. Daily!
(Definitely check out the replay of today's game on NBA TV when it airs this week, its worth the 3 hour investment of your time).
Friday, April 17, 2009
nba first round playoff picks
40 Games in 40 Nights! Its five of the sweetest words in the English language!
Yup, its playoff time! Sadly, my Milwaukee BuKCs will not be participating this year, but considering the ridiculous injury situations they endured, 34-48 and within striking distance of the 8th seed constitutes one helluva season to build on.
Here's my thoughts on the first round series. We'll start in the East ...
1 Cavaliers vs 8 Pistons: if I'm a Cavs fan (and I'm not really one), I'm a little concerned by this series. Not def-con five worried, but concerned. Detroit still has enough veteran talent and pride to push the Cavs. They will not go quietly. The Pistons core has known since the Billups / Iverson trade that this is their last hurrah, the team is getting blown up this summer. Kind of reminds me of the Kings / Spurs 1 v 8 first rounder three years ago, the last gasp of those solid early 2000s Kings teams. They pushed the Spurs to six before folding. I envision the same thing here. Cavs in 6.
2 Celtics vs 7 Bulls: the single most unpredictable matchup on the board because of the Garnett injury. For what its worth, I think KG comes back if they get to the second round. He's too much like McHale, he'll literally risk his entire remaining career to pursue one more ring. The Bulls are inconsistent, but closed 16-4 to roar from afterthought to seventh seed. I can't wait to see Derrick Rose on the national stage as well. Jordan's first playoff series was a Celtics sweep, but he announced his arrival to the world in that series. Wouldn't shock me to see the same here with Mr. Rose. Although I think Chicago will win at least once. Celtics in 5.
3 Magic vs 6 76ers: intriguing matchup. The Magic fell off after the Jameer Nelson injury. The 76ers came together after the Elton Brand injury. The key to this series is game two. I expect the Magic to win the opener. I expect the 76ers to hold serve at home, the Philly crowd is just dynamic in the postseason, in any sport. So to me, game two decides the series. If the 76ers steal game two, they're winning this series. I'll say they get it done. 76ers in 6.
4 Hawks vs 5 Heat: possibly the most underrated matchup on the board. The Hawks gave the Celtics everything they could handle in a 7 game defeat last spring, and they've been locked into the four seed since Opening Night. The Heat have been coming together quite nicely since inserting Steve favorite Mario Chalmers into the starting lineup. Two evenly matched teams that are fun to watch. Should be a great series. Hawks in 7.
1 Lakers vs 8 Jazz: I had Utah as the number one seed out West in my preseason predictions. Oy. They might take one in Utah, but they're not guarding, slowing, or even remotely stopping the Lakers express from rolling on. Lakers in 4.
2 Nuggets vs 7 Hornets: I really like this Hornets team. A lot. The Nuggets should be commended for grabbing the Northwest title and the two seed, but this is a bad matchup for them. CP will neutralize Billups, and Denver just doesn't have the inside presence to counter David West and Tyson Chandler. This is a bad matchup for the Nuggets. Hornets in 6.
3 Spurs vs 6 Mavericks: three years ago these two staged one of the greatest playoff series I've ever seen, culminating with a double OT Dallas victory in San Antonio in game seven. The good old days, when I was happily unemployed, living off the severance package, and was able to stay up until 1am watching hoops every night with no negative consequences. The Spurs are beat up, they're short handed. They have no Ginobili, a beat up Duncan, and you can kind of see the title window slamming shut ... but I just can't pick against them. Not yet, anyways. Spurs, somehow, someway, win this in 7.
4 Blazers vs 5 Rockets: THE series I am looking forward to. My man crush (Brandon Roy)'s first chance to truly shine on the national stage. Against a Houston team that has found a way to lose in round one every year this decade. The youthful Blazers with a ton of potential and championships ahead of them ... against a dangerous, veteran Rockets squad that never lived up to its potential or championship dreams. Yet, anyways. I almost always side with the veteran team with its back to the wall, in any sport really ... only this Rockets squad has never come through in that spot. I'll go with the Blazers in 5, I say they steal game 4 in Houston and close it out at the Rose Garden as Roy drops 50, the confetti flies, and on a couch in south KC, I smile broadly at seeing the League's next powerhouse team take its first steps towards greatness.
Yup, its playoff time! Sadly, my Milwaukee BuKCs will not be participating this year, but considering the ridiculous injury situations they endured, 34-48 and within striking distance of the 8th seed constitutes one helluva season to build on.
Here's my thoughts on the first round series. We'll start in the East ...
1 Cavaliers vs 8 Pistons: if I'm a Cavs fan (and I'm not really one), I'm a little concerned by this series. Not def-con five worried, but concerned. Detroit still has enough veteran talent and pride to push the Cavs. They will not go quietly. The Pistons core has known since the Billups / Iverson trade that this is their last hurrah, the team is getting blown up this summer. Kind of reminds me of the Kings / Spurs 1 v 8 first rounder three years ago, the last gasp of those solid early 2000s Kings teams. They pushed the Spurs to six before folding. I envision the same thing here. Cavs in 6.
2 Celtics vs 7 Bulls: the single most unpredictable matchup on the board because of the Garnett injury. For what its worth, I think KG comes back if they get to the second round. He's too much like McHale, he'll literally risk his entire remaining career to pursue one more ring. The Bulls are inconsistent, but closed 16-4 to roar from afterthought to seventh seed. I can't wait to see Derrick Rose on the national stage as well. Jordan's first playoff series was a Celtics sweep, but he announced his arrival to the world in that series. Wouldn't shock me to see the same here with Mr. Rose. Although I think Chicago will win at least once. Celtics in 5.
3 Magic vs 6 76ers: intriguing matchup. The Magic fell off after the Jameer Nelson injury. The 76ers came together after the Elton Brand injury. The key to this series is game two. I expect the Magic to win the opener. I expect the 76ers to hold serve at home, the Philly crowd is just dynamic in the postseason, in any sport. So to me, game two decides the series. If the 76ers steal game two, they're winning this series. I'll say they get it done. 76ers in 6.
4 Hawks vs 5 Heat: possibly the most underrated matchup on the board. The Hawks gave the Celtics everything they could handle in a 7 game defeat last spring, and they've been locked into the four seed since Opening Night. The Heat have been coming together quite nicely since inserting Steve favorite Mario Chalmers into the starting lineup. Two evenly matched teams that are fun to watch. Should be a great series. Hawks in 7.
1 Lakers vs 8 Jazz: I had Utah as the number one seed out West in my preseason predictions. Oy. They might take one in Utah, but they're not guarding, slowing, or even remotely stopping the Lakers express from rolling on. Lakers in 4.
2 Nuggets vs 7 Hornets: I really like this Hornets team. A lot. The Nuggets should be commended for grabbing the Northwest title and the two seed, but this is a bad matchup for them. CP will neutralize Billups, and Denver just doesn't have the inside presence to counter David West and Tyson Chandler. This is a bad matchup for the Nuggets. Hornets in 6.
3 Spurs vs 6 Mavericks: three years ago these two staged one of the greatest playoff series I've ever seen, culminating with a double OT Dallas victory in San Antonio in game seven. The good old days, when I was happily unemployed, living off the severance package, and was able to stay up until 1am watching hoops every night with no negative consequences. The Spurs are beat up, they're short handed. They have no Ginobili, a beat up Duncan, and you can kind of see the title window slamming shut ... but I just can't pick against them. Not yet, anyways. Spurs, somehow, someway, win this in 7.
4 Blazers vs 5 Rockets: THE series I am looking forward to. My man crush (Brandon Roy)'s first chance to truly shine on the national stage. Against a Houston team that has found a way to lose in round one every year this decade. The youthful Blazers with a ton of potential and championships ahead of them ... against a dangerous, veteran Rockets squad that never lived up to its potential or championship dreams. Yet, anyways. I almost always side with the veteran team with its back to the wall, in any sport really ... only this Rockets squad has never come through in that spot. I'll go with the Blazers in 5, I say they steal game 4 in Houston and close it out at the Rose Garden as Roy drops 50, the confetti flies, and on a couch in south KC, I smile broadly at seeing the League's next powerhouse team take its first steps towards greatness.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
early look at 2009 nfl schedule
Now that the schedule is out ... and I have five minutes to digest it ... by initial thoughts on the upcoming 2009 NFL season.
Week One:
* Chiefs: at Ravens (noon, CBS). Third straight year the Chiefs have opened on the road. The Chiefs are 3-0 all time in Baltimore, winning there in 1998, 2003, and 2004 (when we were 0-3 and on the ropes on a Monday night). Interesting opener for the red and gold.
* Jets: at Texans (noon, CBS). I'll be honest up front: I expect nothing from Gang Green this year. The QB situation is a mess, I hated the Rex Ryan hiring, and as long as incompetent GM Mike Tannenbaum calls the shots, we're screwed. Interesting game for Houston though, they've closed really strong the last two years but its their starts that have killed them. Very winnable opener for the Texans.
* Best game: Titans at Steelers (Thurs night, NBC). The Ravens upset in Nashville prevented this from being the AFC Title Game last year. Both teams figure to be in the title hunt again this season, although I'm not as sold on Tennessee as some folks are. Still, tremendous opener to the season.
* Worst game: Rams at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). I guess if they're contractually required to play twice a year, you might as well get it over with as soon as possible.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Panthers (noon, FOX). Tremendous opener that NBC should have grabbed, instead of (yawn) Bears at (snore) Packers.
Week Two:
* Chiefs: vs raiders (noon, CBS). Second straight year our home opener is against the silver and black. The raiders have won two straight at Arrowhead, and are two fluke plays (LJ's touchdown as time expired, Page's end zone INT as time expired) from having won four straight. Chiefs need this one, you have to win these games at home if you hope to establish momentum.
* Jets: vs Patriots (noon, CBS). This one will not be even remotely competitive. The Jets are opening 0-5 barring a miracle. Or so says Steve.
* Best game: Ravens at Chargers (3pm, CBS). Huge playoff ramifications riding on this one. Especially if these two rematch in January, as is very much possible.
* Worst game: Bucs at Bills (noon, FOX). Talk about utterly unwatchable. Only TO makes me possibly want to tune in for two minutes.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Giants at Cowboys (Sunday night, NBC). Yeah, the debut of the stadium should be sweet, but anytime NFC East rivals get together, good games happen. Scratch that -- great games happen.
Week Three:
* Chiefs: at Eagles (noon, CBS). We should be solid double digit underdogs in this one, and deservedly so.
* Jets: vs Titans (noon, CBS). We should be approaching double digit underdog status in this one, and deservedly so.
* Best game: Colts at Cardinals (Sunday night, NBC). First team to 50 wins?
* Worst game: Packers at Rams (noon, FOX). Totally unwatchable. Sadly, since CBS has the double header, that means we're stuck with this snoozer on FOX4.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: 49ers at Vikings (noon, FOX). One of those under-the-radar meetings early in the season that turns out to have huge wildcard ramifications come early January?
Week Four:
* Chiefs: vs Giants (noon, FOX). Of course we're playing at home on NASCAR Sunday. Why even bother to ask the question. (steve sighing in disgust ...) This is a biggie for the Chiefs though. If you figure we're 1-2 at this point, this could be the upset that springs us into contention in a horrible division. Or its the nail in the coffin that starts a lengthy losing streak. Either way, this is one of the 4 "benchmark games" of the 2009 season.
* Jets: at Saints (noon, CBS). This one should get ugly early, and stay that way.
* Best game: Cowboys at donkeys (3pm, FOX). Dallas' schedule after week one: vs Giants / vs Panthers / at donkeys / at Chiefs. They go 3-1 in that stretch, you can pencil them in for 12 wins and a home game in January.
* Worst game: Bengals at Browns (noon, CBS). Smells like a Criqui / Tasker assignment to me.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Titans at Jaguars (noon, CBS). The Jags can't be this bad again, can they? There's too much talent there for another sub .500 finish. Or so says Steve.
Week Five:
* Chiefs: vs Cowboys (noon, FOX). The over / under on when the bus arrives to tailgate is 5:46am.
* Jets: at Miami (Monday night, ESPN). Rex Ryan's debut drops to 0 and 5.
* Best game: Colts at Titans (Sunday night, NBC). This was the game that put the Titans on the map last year, a home pole-axing in prime time of the Colts. Its also the last time Indy lost in the regular season, as they won 9 straight before losing the wildcard game in San Diego.
* Worst game: Browns at Bills (noon, CBS). This is one of those games that you'd just simulate if the NFL was a video game.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Chiefs / Cowboys. Its the one game on the schedule this week that has me excited.
Week Six:
* Chiefs: at Redskins (noon, FOX). A winnable roadie if all the cards fall right. In all likelihood, a 27-21 loss.
* Jets: vs Bills (3pm, CBS). Dare we dream? A victory? Finally?
* Best game: Titans at Patriots (3pm, CBS). By this point we should know whether Kerry Collins can do it again, and if Tom Brady is healthy again.
* Worst game: Lions at Packers (noon, FOX). The losing streak might be at 24 after this one.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Giants at Saints (noon, FOX). Should be a thoroughly enjoyable NFC showdown with huge wildcard ramifications.
Week Seven:
* Chiefs: vs Chargers (noon, CBS). A winnable game entering the bye, with a winnable roadie afterwards. There is no reason the Chiefs can't be 4-3 after this game. And no, I have not been drinking.
* Jets: at raiders (3pm, CBS). Our personal house of horrors. Lose this one Rex, and you might not survive the bye week.
* Best game: Cardinals at Giants (Sunday night, NBC). Nearly the NFC Title Game last year. Both teams figure to be in the hunt this year as well.
* Worst game: Packers at Browns (noon, FOX). I'd rather have a stick shoved up my ass than be subjected to three plus hours of this game.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Redskins (Monday night, ESPN). I love NFC East showdowns. Love 'em.
Week Eight:
* Chiefs: bye.
* Jets: vs Dolphins (noon, CBS). The Meadowlands might be half empty for this one.
* Best game: Giants at Eagles (3pm, FOX). Too bad there can't be NFC East showdowns every week.
* Worst game: Rams at Lions (noon, FOX). Not even friends and family will show up for this one.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Texans at Bills (noon, CBS). Huge playoff implications in this one. (Yes, I am that sold on the Texans ... again ...)
Week Nine:
* Chiefs: at Jaguars (noon, CBS). Very winnable roadie. You need games like this if you expect to play meaningful games in December.
* Jets: bye. If we're 1-7, goodbye Tannenbaum and Ryan. Maybe I should root for 1-7 or worse ...
* Best game: Chargers at Giants (3pm, CBS). Great inter-conference battle.
* Worst game: Lions at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). Loser has the inside track for the number one pick?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Panthers at Saints (3pm, FOX). Huge NFC South battle between the two teams most likely to win it.
Week Ten:
* Chiefs: at raiders (3pm, CBS). Chiefs have won 6 straight by the Bay, all by 7 points or less. Hope that trend continues.
* Jets: vs Jaguars (noon, CBS). The dawn of the Brian Schottenheimer era?
* Best game: Patriots at Colts (Sunday night, NBC). Just to showcase how far and fast the Colts will fall without Dungy.
* Worst game: Seahawks at Cardinals (3pm, FOX). The NFL record for margin of victory is 73. I'm just saying.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Cowboys at Packers (3pm, FOX). Anytime these two get together its appointment television in the Casa de Steve.
Week Eleven:
* Chiefs: vs Steelers (noon, CBS). I've always said my three favorite home games are against the donkeys, raiders, and Steelers. These are usually an instant classic.
* Jets: at Patriots (3pm, CBS). Gonna be tough to top last year's OT Jets win in Foxboro.
* Best game: Eagles at Bears (Sunday night, NBC). Huge playoff implications on this one.
* Worst game: Browns at Lions (noon, CBS). First team to 3 wins?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Titans at Texans (Monday night, ESPN). I think the winner of this one takes control of the division.
Week Twelve:
* Chiefs: at Chargers (3pm, CBS). Road trip to San Diego on Thanksgiving weekend?
* Jets: vs Panthers (noon, FOX). Another in a long line of ugly losses.
* Best game: Steelers at Ravens (Sunday night, NBC). After two tremendous showdowns last year, how does this one top it?
* Worst game: Seahawks at Rams (noon, FOX). More players on the field than fans in the stands?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Bears at Vikings (noon, FOX). Huge NFC North showdown.
Week Thirteen:
* Chiefs: vs broncos (noon, CBS). The game I live for.
* Jets: at Bills (Thurs night, NFLN). Bills should be in position to take a wildcard berth if they win these type of games.
* Best game: Saints at Redskins (noon, FOX). Might get flexed to Sunday night. Huge playoff implications in this one.
* Worst game: Lions at Bengals (noon, FOX). Hide the women and children.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: take a friggin guess. Chiefs! donkeys! High noon! Arrowhead! Bring it denver, effing bring it!
Week Fourteen:
* Chiefs: vs Bills (noon, CBS). I'm all for three game homestands ... but in December? Brrrrrrr.
* Jets: at Bucs (noon, CBS). Should be a battle of 2-3 win squads in the warm Florida sunshine.
* Best game: Cardinals at 49ers (Monday night, ESPN). Seriously. This one might decide the NFC West.
* Worst game: Lions at Ravens (noon, FOX). Lions might not cross midfield.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Giants (Sunday night, NBC). Great way to cap off the weekend.
Week Fifteen:
* Chiefs: vs Browns (noon, CBS). Hopefully this is meaningful for us.
* Jets: vs Falcons (noon, FOX). Ugly. Ugly, ugly, ugly.
* Best game: Cowboys at Saints (Sat night, NFLN). Great late season showdown that should have huge playoff ramifications.
* Worst game: Bucs at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). Will FOX even bother to send someone to cover this one?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Patriots at Bills (noon, CBS). Should get flexed to Sunday night if the AFC East is on the line.
Week Sixteen:
* Chiefs: at Bengals (noon, CBS). The fourth of five very winnable games to end the season.
* Jets: at Colts (3pm, CBS). Neither team will enter this game with a winning record. Or exit it with one either.
* Best game: Panthers at Giants (noon, FOX). Last year's prime time epic determined home field advantage. This one might as well.
* Worst game: raiders at Browns (noon, CBS). Neither team will be worth a damn this year.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Cowboys at Redskins (Sunday night, NBC). Other than Chiefs / donkeys, this is my favorite rivalry in football.
Week Seventeen:
* Chiefs: at broncos (3pm, CBS). I really wish this one was at home, I'd have loved a shot at denver on my birthday.
* Jets: vs Bengals (noon, CBS). Putrid game to end a wretched season.
* Best game: Saints at Panthers (noon, FOX). Leading candidate to flex into prime time at this point.
* Worst game: Bengals at Jets. Its that awful.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Patriots at Texans (noon, CBS). This one could be a win-and-in scenario for Houston.
Week One:
* Chiefs: at Ravens (noon, CBS). Third straight year the Chiefs have opened on the road. The Chiefs are 3-0 all time in Baltimore, winning there in 1998, 2003, and 2004 (when we were 0-3 and on the ropes on a Monday night). Interesting opener for the red and gold.
* Jets: at Texans (noon, CBS). I'll be honest up front: I expect nothing from Gang Green this year. The QB situation is a mess, I hated the Rex Ryan hiring, and as long as incompetent GM Mike Tannenbaum calls the shots, we're screwed. Interesting game for Houston though, they've closed really strong the last two years but its their starts that have killed them. Very winnable opener for the Texans.
* Best game: Titans at Steelers (Thurs night, NBC). The Ravens upset in Nashville prevented this from being the AFC Title Game last year. Both teams figure to be in the title hunt again this season, although I'm not as sold on Tennessee as some folks are. Still, tremendous opener to the season.
* Worst game: Rams at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). I guess if they're contractually required to play twice a year, you might as well get it over with as soon as possible.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Panthers (noon, FOX). Tremendous opener that NBC should have grabbed, instead of (yawn) Bears at (snore) Packers.
Week Two:
* Chiefs: vs raiders (noon, CBS). Second straight year our home opener is against the silver and black. The raiders have won two straight at Arrowhead, and are two fluke plays (LJ's touchdown as time expired, Page's end zone INT as time expired) from having won four straight. Chiefs need this one, you have to win these games at home if you hope to establish momentum.
* Jets: vs Patriots (noon, CBS). This one will not be even remotely competitive. The Jets are opening 0-5 barring a miracle. Or so says Steve.
* Best game: Ravens at Chargers (3pm, CBS). Huge playoff ramifications riding on this one. Especially if these two rematch in January, as is very much possible.
* Worst game: Bucs at Bills (noon, FOX). Talk about utterly unwatchable. Only TO makes me possibly want to tune in for two minutes.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Giants at Cowboys (Sunday night, NBC). Yeah, the debut of the stadium should be sweet, but anytime NFC East rivals get together, good games happen. Scratch that -- great games happen.
Week Three:
* Chiefs: at Eagles (noon, CBS). We should be solid double digit underdogs in this one, and deservedly so.
* Jets: vs Titans (noon, CBS). We should be approaching double digit underdog status in this one, and deservedly so.
* Best game: Colts at Cardinals (Sunday night, NBC). First team to 50 wins?
* Worst game: Packers at Rams (noon, FOX). Totally unwatchable. Sadly, since CBS has the double header, that means we're stuck with this snoozer on FOX4.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: 49ers at Vikings (noon, FOX). One of those under-the-radar meetings early in the season that turns out to have huge wildcard ramifications come early January?
Week Four:
* Chiefs: vs Giants (noon, FOX). Of course we're playing at home on NASCAR Sunday. Why even bother to ask the question. (steve sighing in disgust ...) This is a biggie for the Chiefs though. If you figure we're 1-2 at this point, this could be the upset that springs us into contention in a horrible division. Or its the nail in the coffin that starts a lengthy losing streak. Either way, this is one of the 4 "benchmark games" of the 2009 season.
* Jets: at Saints (noon, CBS). This one should get ugly early, and stay that way.
* Best game: Cowboys at donkeys (3pm, FOX). Dallas' schedule after week one: vs Giants / vs Panthers / at donkeys / at Chiefs. They go 3-1 in that stretch, you can pencil them in for 12 wins and a home game in January.
* Worst game: Bengals at Browns (noon, CBS). Smells like a Criqui / Tasker assignment to me.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Titans at Jaguars (noon, CBS). The Jags can't be this bad again, can they? There's too much talent there for another sub .500 finish. Or so says Steve.
Week Five:
* Chiefs: vs Cowboys (noon, FOX). The over / under on when the bus arrives to tailgate is 5:46am.
* Jets: at Miami (Monday night, ESPN). Rex Ryan's debut drops to 0 and 5.
* Best game: Colts at Titans (Sunday night, NBC). This was the game that put the Titans on the map last year, a home pole-axing in prime time of the Colts. Its also the last time Indy lost in the regular season, as they won 9 straight before losing the wildcard game in San Diego.
* Worst game: Browns at Bills (noon, CBS). This is one of those games that you'd just simulate if the NFL was a video game.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Chiefs / Cowboys. Its the one game on the schedule this week that has me excited.
Week Six:
* Chiefs: at Redskins (noon, FOX). A winnable roadie if all the cards fall right. In all likelihood, a 27-21 loss.
* Jets: vs Bills (3pm, CBS). Dare we dream? A victory? Finally?
* Best game: Titans at Patriots (3pm, CBS). By this point we should know whether Kerry Collins can do it again, and if Tom Brady is healthy again.
* Worst game: Lions at Packers (noon, FOX). The losing streak might be at 24 after this one.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Giants at Saints (noon, FOX). Should be a thoroughly enjoyable NFC showdown with huge wildcard ramifications.
Week Seven:
* Chiefs: vs Chargers (noon, CBS). A winnable game entering the bye, with a winnable roadie afterwards. There is no reason the Chiefs can't be 4-3 after this game. And no, I have not been drinking.
* Jets: at raiders (3pm, CBS). Our personal house of horrors. Lose this one Rex, and you might not survive the bye week.
* Best game: Cardinals at Giants (Sunday night, NBC). Nearly the NFC Title Game last year. Both teams figure to be in the hunt this year as well.
* Worst game: Packers at Browns (noon, FOX). I'd rather have a stick shoved up my ass than be subjected to three plus hours of this game.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Redskins (Monday night, ESPN). I love NFC East showdowns. Love 'em.
Week Eight:
* Chiefs: bye.
* Jets: vs Dolphins (noon, CBS). The Meadowlands might be half empty for this one.
* Best game: Giants at Eagles (3pm, FOX). Too bad there can't be NFC East showdowns every week.
* Worst game: Rams at Lions (noon, FOX). Not even friends and family will show up for this one.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Texans at Bills (noon, CBS). Huge playoff implications in this one. (Yes, I am that sold on the Texans ... again ...)
Week Nine:
* Chiefs: at Jaguars (noon, CBS). Very winnable roadie. You need games like this if you expect to play meaningful games in December.
* Jets: bye. If we're 1-7, goodbye Tannenbaum and Ryan. Maybe I should root for 1-7 or worse ...
* Best game: Chargers at Giants (3pm, CBS). Great inter-conference battle.
* Worst game: Lions at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). Loser has the inside track for the number one pick?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Panthers at Saints (3pm, FOX). Huge NFC South battle between the two teams most likely to win it.
Week Ten:
* Chiefs: at raiders (3pm, CBS). Chiefs have won 6 straight by the Bay, all by 7 points or less. Hope that trend continues.
* Jets: vs Jaguars (noon, CBS). The dawn of the Brian Schottenheimer era?
* Best game: Patriots at Colts (Sunday night, NBC). Just to showcase how far and fast the Colts will fall without Dungy.
* Worst game: Seahawks at Cardinals (3pm, FOX). The NFL record for margin of victory is 73. I'm just saying.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Cowboys at Packers (3pm, FOX). Anytime these two get together its appointment television in the Casa de Steve.
Week Eleven:
* Chiefs: vs Steelers (noon, CBS). I've always said my three favorite home games are against the donkeys, raiders, and Steelers. These are usually an instant classic.
* Jets: at Patriots (3pm, CBS). Gonna be tough to top last year's OT Jets win in Foxboro.
* Best game: Eagles at Bears (Sunday night, NBC). Huge playoff implications on this one.
* Worst game: Browns at Lions (noon, CBS). First team to 3 wins?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Titans at Texans (Monday night, ESPN). I think the winner of this one takes control of the division.
Week Twelve:
* Chiefs: at Chargers (3pm, CBS). Road trip to San Diego on Thanksgiving weekend?
* Jets: vs Panthers (noon, FOX). Another in a long line of ugly losses.
* Best game: Steelers at Ravens (Sunday night, NBC). After two tremendous showdowns last year, how does this one top it?
* Worst game: Seahawks at Rams (noon, FOX). More players on the field than fans in the stands?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Bears at Vikings (noon, FOX). Huge NFC North showdown.
Week Thirteen:
* Chiefs: vs broncos (noon, CBS). The game I live for.
* Jets: at Bills (Thurs night, NFLN). Bills should be in position to take a wildcard berth if they win these type of games.
* Best game: Saints at Redskins (noon, FOX). Might get flexed to Sunday night. Huge playoff implications in this one.
* Worst game: Lions at Bengals (noon, FOX). Hide the women and children.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: take a friggin guess. Chiefs! donkeys! High noon! Arrowhead! Bring it denver, effing bring it!
Week Fourteen:
* Chiefs: vs Bills (noon, CBS). I'm all for three game homestands ... but in December? Brrrrrrr.
* Jets: at Bucs (noon, CBS). Should be a battle of 2-3 win squads in the warm Florida sunshine.
* Best game: Cardinals at 49ers (Monday night, ESPN). Seriously. This one might decide the NFC West.
* Worst game: Lions at Ravens (noon, FOX). Lions might not cross midfield.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Eagles at Giants (Sunday night, NBC). Great way to cap off the weekend.
Week Fifteen:
* Chiefs: vs Browns (noon, CBS). Hopefully this is meaningful for us.
* Jets: vs Falcons (noon, FOX). Ugly. Ugly, ugly, ugly.
* Best game: Cowboys at Saints (Sat night, NFLN). Great late season showdown that should have huge playoff ramifications.
* Worst game: Bucs at Seahawks (3pm, FOX). Will FOX even bother to send someone to cover this one?
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Patriots at Bills (noon, CBS). Should get flexed to Sunday night if the AFC East is on the line.
Week Sixteen:
* Chiefs: at Bengals (noon, CBS). The fourth of five very winnable games to end the season.
* Jets: at Colts (3pm, CBS). Neither team will enter this game with a winning record. Or exit it with one either.
* Best game: Panthers at Giants (noon, FOX). Last year's prime time epic determined home field advantage. This one might as well.
* Worst game: raiders at Browns (noon, CBS). Neither team will be worth a damn this year.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Cowboys at Redskins (Sunday night, NBC). Other than Chiefs / donkeys, this is my favorite rivalry in football.
Week Seventeen:
* Chiefs: at broncos (3pm, CBS). I really wish this one was at home, I'd have loved a shot at denver on my birthday.
* Jets: vs Bengals (noon, CBS). Putrid game to end a wretched season.
* Best game: Saints at Panthers (noon, FOX). Leading candidate to flex into prime time at this point.
* Worst game: Bengals at Jets. Its that awful.
* Game I'm Most Looking Forward To: Patriots at Texans (noon, CBS). This one could be a win-and-in scenario for Houston.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
american idol top 7 ... the recap.
So it was "Movie Theme Song" night on Idol, a trainwreck waiting to happen.
And man, did a few cars wreck spectacularly. Honestly, there was only one truly solid performance last night.
I wasn't available to do a live blog due to checking out Dusty's uncle perform down at The Brick last night. Solid show, solid venue by the way. Greg and guitar dude with him are ready for Rockfest, if last night is any judge. (And a huge, huge Steve shout-out to The Brick. $5 double vodka tonics that, with the way the dude poured them, were more like quadruple vodka tonics?!?! A bar with solid entertainment, in the heart of the city, that makes cheap drinks "Steve style"?!?! Sweet Jesus!)
Here now, the quick thoughts on the worst edition of "Idol" yet this season:
* Allison, "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing". Ugh. I wanted to haul out the Steven Tyler version of the National Anthem from the 2000 Indy 500, the one where he sounds completely tanked, botches the words, and closes with "home of the ... Indianapolis 500!", because Allison sounded every bit as awful as Mr. Tyler did that day. This performance was abysmal. I like Allison. I want a final four of her, Matt, Kris and Adam. But last night, definite bottom three material. Sadly, for once, she earned her likely designation.
* Anoop, "Everything I Do (I Do It For You"). An absolutely mediocre performance that I couldn't stop laughing hysterically at. Because as soon as the opening notes to the song began, I couldn't help but remember the Stewie Griffin version from a few weeks ago on "Family Guy". The image of Stewie sitting on the train stop bench with the balloon as the song builds. "There's no love! Like your love! And no other! Could give more love! There's nowhere! Unless you're there! All the time! All the way ..." Anoop also likely headed for the bottom 3.
(Seriously, why couldn't you show Stewie's "music video" on the background screen as Anoop Doggy Dogg was singing? Tell me that wouldn't enhance the show 1,000 percent. "Family Guy" airs on FOX. "American Idol" airs on FOX. Hopefully someone on Youtube! makes this happen, stat.)
* Adam, "Born to Be Wild". Another song that I couldn't focus on the performance of ... because I was tripping back to July 1996, at beautiful Pete Vonachen Stadium, for a Peoria Chiefs game. The conversation at that time pretty much went like this:
(peoria chiefs pr chick) hi!
(steve) hi.
(peoria chiefs pr chick) I'm looking for someone willing to karaoke for pizza!
(steve) no than --
(gregg) Steve will do it!
(jenni) yeah, Steve will do it!
(the 3 cougars sitting in front of us) yeah, pick Steve!
(steve) (sighing in disgust) what the hell.
Yup, I performed "Born to Be Wild". On the field. And won that Monical's Pizza, dammit! As the three cougars roared me on like I was their son's hot-as-hell best friend. (Wait, I think I took that one too far. Screw it, its my blog, its my analogies.)
Anyways, Adam was good. Second best performance of the night.
* Matt, "Have You Really Ever Loved a Woman". I love Matt. He's my puppy/pony/rooster in this race. But dude. Really? Brian Adams? Really? He really did not do well last night. I fear he'll be in the bottom three, although to use my favorite phrase, I am "cautiously optimistic" that the judges would save him.
* Danny, "Endless Love". I nearly spit out the shiraz when he chose this song. For starters, as the biggest Lionel Richie fan I know, you can't improve on the original of this song. I'm listening to it on the iPod while typing this. Its a perfect song. Also, Danny doesn't do stuff like this. And yet ... it wasn't half bad. I still think he should have chosen something different. I would have picked "I Would Walk 500 Miles" since he kind of looks like the guys who did the song when he wears his glasses, and I'm reasonably sure that was from a Johnny Depp movie, but still. He's safe.
* Kris, "Falling Slowly". I had never heard this song before. I'd never even heard of the movie "Once". And I absolutely LOVED this performance. Loved it. Loved it like ... well, like Christie Brinkley's ex-husband loves a certain "reputable singles site". This was phenomenal, I thought.
The kid's starting to grow on me. Solid voice, solid performer, hot as hell wife. I might have to become a fan of his on Facebook. Hold it.
(done and done).
* Little Rounds, "The Rose". At least she didn't do "Wind Beneath My Wings" if she's doing a Bette Midler "masterpiece". Although maybe she should have, considering how awful this performance was. I'm sure she had to show some talent, something worth keeping her around for, prior to my tuning into the top 36 ... because I am really struggling to believe that THIS is one of the 12 best singers in the competition. Seriously, this chick just irritates the living hell out of me. Watching this chick perform at this point, is the equivalent of having HHH take a sledge hammer and repeatedly bash me with it in a sensitive, private area. It hurts. It hurts really, really bad. Just go away already.
Final thoughts:
Best performance: Kris, by a country mile. (simon cowell voice) which country? Seriously, that cheap shot at Pauler's compliment of Scott last week just cracked me up. "Your best by a country mile! / Which country?" Awesome.
Worst performance: Little Rounds. At this point, I think I was better half drunk on the field at Pete Vonachen Stadium than this chick is sober at the Idoldome.
Bottom Three: Little Rounds, Anoop, Allison. Although Matt might drop in instead of Allison.
Going Home: if there's a God, it'll be Little Rounds. And if the judges save her, I might make like a monkey and fling stuff at the television in anger.
And man, did a few cars wreck spectacularly. Honestly, there was only one truly solid performance last night.
I wasn't available to do a live blog due to checking out Dusty's uncle perform down at The Brick last night. Solid show, solid venue by the way. Greg and guitar dude with him are ready for Rockfest, if last night is any judge. (And a huge, huge Steve shout-out to The Brick. $5 double vodka tonics that, with the way the dude poured them, were more like quadruple vodka tonics?!?! A bar with solid entertainment, in the heart of the city, that makes cheap drinks "Steve style"?!?! Sweet Jesus!)
Here now, the quick thoughts on the worst edition of "Idol" yet this season:
* Allison, "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing". Ugh. I wanted to haul out the Steven Tyler version of the National Anthem from the 2000 Indy 500, the one where he sounds completely tanked, botches the words, and closes with "home of the ... Indianapolis 500!", because Allison sounded every bit as awful as Mr. Tyler did that day. This performance was abysmal. I like Allison. I want a final four of her, Matt, Kris and Adam. But last night, definite bottom three material. Sadly, for once, she earned her likely designation.
* Anoop, "Everything I Do (I Do It For You"). An absolutely mediocre performance that I couldn't stop laughing hysterically at. Because as soon as the opening notes to the song began, I couldn't help but remember the Stewie Griffin version from a few weeks ago on "Family Guy". The image of Stewie sitting on the train stop bench with the balloon as the song builds. "There's no love! Like your love! And no other! Could give more love! There's nowhere! Unless you're there! All the time! All the way ..." Anoop also likely headed for the bottom 3.
(Seriously, why couldn't you show Stewie's "music video" on the background screen as Anoop Doggy Dogg was singing? Tell me that wouldn't enhance the show 1,000 percent. "Family Guy" airs on FOX. "American Idol" airs on FOX. Hopefully someone on Youtube! makes this happen, stat.)
* Adam, "Born to Be Wild". Another song that I couldn't focus on the performance of ... because I was tripping back to July 1996, at beautiful Pete Vonachen Stadium, for a Peoria Chiefs game. The conversation at that time pretty much went like this:
(peoria chiefs pr chick) hi!
(steve) hi.
(peoria chiefs pr chick) I'm looking for someone willing to karaoke for pizza!
(steve) no than --
(gregg) Steve will do it!
(jenni) yeah, Steve will do it!
(the 3 cougars sitting in front of us) yeah, pick Steve!
(steve) (sighing in disgust) what the hell.
Yup, I performed "Born to Be Wild". On the field. And won that Monical's Pizza, dammit! As the three cougars roared me on like I was their son's hot-as-hell best friend. (Wait, I think I took that one too far. Screw it, its my blog, its my analogies.)
Anyways, Adam was good. Second best performance of the night.
* Matt, "Have You Really Ever Loved a Woman". I love Matt. He's my puppy/pony/rooster in this race. But dude. Really? Brian Adams? Really? He really did not do well last night. I fear he'll be in the bottom three, although to use my favorite phrase, I am "cautiously optimistic" that the judges would save him.
* Danny, "Endless Love". I nearly spit out the shiraz when he chose this song. For starters, as the biggest Lionel Richie fan I know, you can't improve on the original of this song. I'm listening to it on the iPod while typing this. Its a perfect song. Also, Danny doesn't do stuff like this. And yet ... it wasn't half bad. I still think he should have chosen something different. I would have picked "I Would Walk 500 Miles" since he kind of looks like the guys who did the song when he wears his glasses, and I'm reasonably sure that was from a Johnny Depp movie, but still. He's safe.
* Kris, "Falling Slowly". I had never heard this song before. I'd never even heard of the movie "Once". And I absolutely LOVED this performance. Loved it. Loved it like ... well, like Christie Brinkley's ex-husband loves a certain "reputable singles site". This was phenomenal, I thought.
The kid's starting to grow on me. Solid voice, solid performer, hot as hell wife. I might have to become a fan of his on Facebook. Hold it.
(done and done).
* Little Rounds, "The Rose". At least she didn't do "Wind Beneath My Wings" if she's doing a Bette Midler "masterpiece". Although maybe she should have, considering how awful this performance was. I'm sure she had to show some talent, something worth keeping her around for, prior to my tuning into the top 36 ... because I am really struggling to believe that THIS is one of the 12 best singers in the competition. Seriously, this chick just irritates the living hell out of me. Watching this chick perform at this point, is the equivalent of having HHH take a sledge hammer and repeatedly bash me with it in a sensitive, private area. It hurts. It hurts really, really bad. Just go away already.
Final thoughts:
Best performance: Kris, by a country mile. (simon cowell voice) which country? Seriously, that cheap shot at Pauler's compliment of Scott last week just cracked me up. "Your best by a country mile! / Which country?" Awesome.
Worst performance: Little Rounds. At this point, I think I was better half drunk on the field at Pete Vonachen Stadium than this chick is sober at the Idoldome.
Bottom Three: Little Rounds, Anoop, Allison. Although Matt might drop in instead of Allison.
Going Home: if there's a God, it'll be Little Rounds. And if the judges save her, I might make like a monkey and fling stuff at the television in anger.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
steve's dream schedule
We find out tomorrow night, in prime time no less, exactly what the Chiefs schedule will look like.
So, as I always do, here is how I'd draw up our schedule if I had the power to do so. Rationale, if any, appears with the selection.
Week 1, Sunday September 13: vs denver broncos, noon, CBS. Why not open the dawn of a new era the same way the Peterson era began: facing our hated rivals in the opener? Although this time, let's get 'em at home, where the Chiefs are 8-2 in their last 10 against denver (losing in overtime in 2002 and in the Packer hangover game in 2007).
Week 2, Sunday September 20: vs Buffalo Bills, noon, CBS. Let's get another winnable home game on the schedule early. Bills will be without Marshawn Lynch. Plus, as an ardent opponent of days below 70 degrees, I want as many home games in heat as possible.
Week 3, Sunday September 27: at Baltimore Ravens, noon, CBS. Get the probable road losses out of the way early, as much as possible. Although this one could be intriguing if the Chiefs start strong.
Week 4, Monday October 5: vs Dallas Cowboys, 7:30pm, ESPN. Its the 50th anniversary of the AFL, and of both franchises coming into existance. Fitting that Dallas' original teams meet in prime time.
Week 5, Sunday October 11: at Philadelphia Eagles, noon, CBS. Eagles are a tough read. Could be really good or could be 2000 Dallas Cowboys ready to collapse type of team. Chiefs, in my "dream" schedule, could (I'd argue should) be 3-1 entering this one.
Week 6, Sunday October 18: at Cincinnati Bengals, noon, CBS. Winnable roadie to build confidence heading into the meat of the schedule. Plus a doable roadie before the weather turns ugly (see at Vikings, 2003, for "roadie Steve never wants to make again due to extreme cold" ... thank God they have a Dome up there ...)
Week 7, Sunday October 25: vs Cleveland Browns, noon, CBS. Winnable home game to round out the first "half" of the schedule. 5-2 is possible with this early schedule. I'd argue its almost must-happen given what's about to come ...
Week 8, Sunday November 1: bye. I don't see Sur William Callahan on the coaching staff, so we should survive "bye" with no losses.
Week 9, Sunday November 8: at oakland raiders, 3:15pm, CBS. Huge, huge, HUGE roadie to open the second half of the season. Chiefs have amazingly won 6 straight in oakland, dating back to Sur William's successful season at the helm for the raiders (2002). All 6 wins have been by 7 or less. Something to remember.
Week 10, Sunday November 15: vs New York Giants, noon, FOX. Dare we dream "flex game"? OK, I'll dream it. Giants won in their last appearance at Arrowhead in arguably the most emotional game in franchise history, the follow-up to 9/11.
Week 11, Sunday November 22: at denver broncos, 3:15pm, CBS. Hide the women and children. If there are any watching this one with me.
Week 12, Sunday November 29: at San Diego Chargers, 3:15pm, CBS. They're the clear front runners for the division. Chiefs are 1-1 in recent years on Thanksgiving Weekend in Qualcomm, losing a debacle in 2000, and winning a close one in 2003.
Week 13, Sunday December 6: vs oakland raiders, noon, CBS. Following two likely road losses, and likely sitting at 6-5 or 5-6, as close to must win as it gets.
Week 14, Thursday December 10: vs Pittsburgh Steelers, 7pm, NFLN. I'm sure I'll be whining, b*tching, moaning and complaining about the cold every damned minute ... until the gates open. Then the grills will be going, the smoke rising in the night air, "In the Air Tonight" blares, and I smile. And slip on a 15th sweatshirt.
Week 15, Sunday December 20: at Washington Redskins, noon, CBS. Chiefs are 1-0 at FedEx. I don't see 2-0 happening.
Week 16, Sunday December 27: vs San Diego Chargers, noon, CBS. Divisional title showdown? (probably not ... but it would rock if it was ...)
Week 17, Sunday January 4: at Jacksonville Jaguars, noon, CBS. I can think of worse places to spend a 33rd birthday weekend than the coast of Florida. Even if it is slightly further north than, say, Tampa or Miami ...
So, as I always do, here is how I'd draw up our schedule if I had the power to do so. Rationale, if any, appears with the selection.
Week 1, Sunday September 13: vs denver broncos, noon, CBS. Why not open the dawn of a new era the same way the Peterson era began: facing our hated rivals in the opener? Although this time, let's get 'em at home, where the Chiefs are 8-2 in their last 10 against denver (losing in overtime in 2002 and in the Packer hangover game in 2007).
Week 2, Sunday September 20: vs Buffalo Bills, noon, CBS. Let's get another winnable home game on the schedule early. Bills will be without Marshawn Lynch. Plus, as an ardent opponent of days below 70 degrees, I want as many home games in heat as possible.
Week 3, Sunday September 27: at Baltimore Ravens, noon, CBS. Get the probable road losses out of the way early, as much as possible. Although this one could be intriguing if the Chiefs start strong.
Week 4, Monday October 5: vs Dallas Cowboys, 7:30pm, ESPN. Its the 50th anniversary of the AFL, and of both franchises coming into existance. Fitting that Dallas' original teams meet in prime time.
Week 5, Sunday October 11: at Philadelphia Eagles, noon, CBS. Eagles are a tough read. Could be really good or could be 2000 Dallas Cowboys ready to collapse type of team. Chiefs, in my "dream" schedule, could (I'd argue should) be 3-1 entering this one.
Week 6, Sunday October 18: at Cincinnati Bengals, noon, CBS. Winnable roadie to build confidence heading into the meat of the schedule. Plus a doable roadie before the weather turns ugly (see at Vikings, 2003, for "roadie Steve never wants to make again due to extreme cold" ... thank God they have a Dome up there ...)
Week 7, Sunday October 25: vs Cleveland Browns, noon, CBS. Winnable home game to round out the first "half" of the schedule. 5-2 is possible with this early schedule. I'd argue its almost must-happen given what's about to come ...
Week 8, Sunday November 1: bye. I don't see Sur William Callahan on the coaching staff, so we should survive "bye" with no losses.
Week 9, Sunday November 8: at oakland raiders, 3:15pm, CBS. Huge, huge, HUGE roadie to open the second half of the season. Chiefs have amazingly won 6 straight in oakland, dating back to Sur William's successful season at the helm for the raiders (2002). All 6 wins have been by 7 or less. Something to remember.
Week 10, Sunday November 15: vs New York Giants, noon, FOX. Dare we dream "flex game"? OK, I'll dream it. Giants won in their last appearance at Arrowhead in arguably the most emotional game in franchise history, the follow-up to 9/11.
Week 11, Sunday November 22: at denver broncos, 3:15pm, CBS. Hide the women and children. If there are any watching this one with me.
Week 12, Sunday November 29: at San Diego Chargers, 3:15pm, CBS. They're the clear front runners for the division. Chiefs are 1-1 in recent years on Thanksgiving Weekend in Qualcomm, losing a debacle in 2000, and winning a close one in 2003.
Week 13, Sunday December 6: vs oakland raiders, noon, CBS. Following two likely road losses, and likely sitting at 6-5 or 5-6, as close to must win as it gets.
Week 14, Thursday December 10: vs Pittsburgh Steelers, 7pm, NFLN. I'm sure I'll be whining, b*tching, moaning and complaining about the cold every damned minute ... until the gates open. Then the grills will be going, the smoke rising in the night air, "In the Air Tonight" blares, and I smile. And slip on a 15th sweatshirt.
Week 15, Sunday December 20: at Washington Redskins, noon, CBS. Chiefs are 1-0 at FedEx. I don't see 2-0 happening.
Week 16, Sunday December 27: vs San Diego Chargers, noon, CBS. Divisional title showdown? (probably not ... but it would rock if it was ...)
Week 17, Sunday January 4: at Jacksonville Jaguars, noon, CBS. I can think of worse places to spend a 33rd birthday weekend than the coast of Florida. Even if it is slightly further north than, say, Tampa or Miami ...
Monday, April 6, 2009
i'm in it to win it
I received an email the other day with an intriguing opportunity.
The email was from our good friends at One Arrowhead Drive.
The text of the email was pretty straight forward:
--------------------
"Dear (chiefs fan):
We are looking for a Section Chief to represent Section 132 during the 2009 season. If you have a passion and enthusiasm for the Chiefs and have good communication skills, then this program is for you.
The Chiefs are excited to announce the launch of our new Section Chiefs program for 2009 Season Ticket Holders. Our goal is to utilize Section Chiefs to help us create section-by- section communities of fans to strengthen fan interaction and communication with the Chiefs and to provide new experiences for season ticket holders throughout the season.
One Section Chief will be identified for each section in the lower and upper levels of Arrowhead Stadium. In this volunteer capacity the Section Chief will be a leader in his/her section to encourage your peers to be the 12th Man on and off the field. We also want you to provide feedback about stadium atmosphere (game production, fan involvement, suggestions to improve the game day experience, etc.). Throughout 2009, special programs and events will be planned for each section.
As a Section Chief, you will enjoy the following benefits:
* A Kickoff Meeting with Chiefs Interim President Denny Thum and Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus.
* A pregame field pass for the Chiefs preseason home game vs. Seattle.
Entry into a drawing to win a pair of tickets to the 2009 Border Showdown between the University of Missouri and the University of Kansas (2 winners selected).
Participation in the Opening Day 50th Anniversary pregame celebration.
* Two complimentary passes to the 2010 Chiefs Draft Day Party.
Your responsibilities will include:
* Completing and submitting an online Post-Game Satisfaction Survey the day following each of the 10 home games.
* Participating in 2-3 special programs and events during the 2009 season with season ticket holders in your section.
* Be a voice of your peers in providing feedback and information to/from your section and the Chiefs.
If you are interested in becoming a Section Chief, please click here to fill out and submit your application. Applications must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, April 10th. The finalists will be notified on April 17th and interviewed at the 2009 Draft Day Party on April 25th.
For those of you who have seats in more than one section, you should apply to be Section Chief in the section where you sit for games.
Thank you to those who have already submitted your application.
--------------------
After much cajoling and encouragement ... I'm in.
I filled out the application earlier today. Here is how I responded. Hopefully it's good enough to get me an interview. Even if its not ... please. Like I'd ever watch a game in that stadium anywhere other than section 132.
Name: steve.
Address: (where I currently live).
City: Kansas City.
State: MO.
ZIP: (my current zip code).
Phone Number: (my current phone number).
Cell Number: (my current cell number).
Email Address: teamtito15@yahoo.com.
Best Time to Reach You: evening.
Professional Information --
Employer: (my current employer).
Address: (my employer's address).
Phone: (my work phone number).
Position: financial accounting specialist. (Note: I've always loved, how both here and at "former employer best known for pyramid building in San Francisco", how the word "specialist" was included in my title. Really? I'm a specialist? I crunch numbers. I don't, like, build bombs or research cancer or create prescription drugs to cure disease. But I am a "specialist". That always kills me for some reason.)
Season Ticket Account: (my sth account number).
Section: 132.
Why Would You Like to Be a Section Chief: Because as anyone who sits by me can attest, nobody in my section gets more into a game than I do. Nobody in 132 is more passionate about this team than I am. And because I think it'd be a lot of fun.
Are You Committed to Attending 2-3 Special Events: Yes.
What Is Your Favorite Part of a Chiefs Game: There's so much I love. The honking of the horns at the gate at 8:30am to let us in. The little rituals and traditions that make our tailgating group so unique. The entire way the Anthem is performed, from the rockets shooting during "the rockets red glare", and the explosions during "the bombs bursting in air", to the "Home of the CHIEFS!" finale. "Start Me Up" on kickoffs. "We're Gonna Beat the Hell Out of You!" after touchdowns, with the red and gold streamers flying from the upper deck in joyful celebration. There's many more, but I'd like to save something for the interview.
Briefly Describe How the Chiefs Can Better Serve Their Fans: Three things. (1) fix the early arrival parking situation. We don't need off-duty Highway Patrolmen on an ego trip armed with guiding tape directing us where to park. Let the early arrivals find their spot and park together within a reasonable time frame, like happens in Houston. And like used to happen here. (2) Bring back the Royals / Chiefs preseason double-header day. We haven't had one since 2003. This should be a yearly celebration of the two things that make KC a major league city. (3) Do not, under any circumstance, in any situation, even contemplate for one second a PSL for each account. You will destroy whatever good will the new regime has restored in the fanbase, and drive many of us who can barely afford these tickets as is to simply give up and walk away. So far, so good on this one.
Verification Code: (i entered what was there).
Then I hit "submit", and that was it.
I'll post any updates as they become available. In the meantime, wish me luck. 132 is going to be the best section in Arrowhead this year! We gain so many great people from 131, like Russ and Mona, Chris and Greg, and Pat. We're gaining section 237's best fans, Gregg and family. And best of all, we're losing the weird guy who wears wolf ears on the aisle with a cigarette above each wolf ear. He's now 133's issue ...
The email was from our good friends at One Arrowhead Drive.
The text of the email was pretty straight forward:
--------------------
"Dear (chiefs fan):
We are looking for a Section Chief to represent Section 132 during the 2009 season. If you have a passion and enthusiasm for the Chiefs and have good communication skills, then this program is for you.
The Chiefs are excited to announce the launch of our new Section Chiefs program for 2009 Season Ticket Holders. Our goal is to utilize Section Chiefs to help us create section-by- section communities of fans to strengthen fan interaction and communication with the Chiefs and to provide new experiences for season ticket holders throughout the season.
One Section Chief will be identified for each section in the lower and upper levels of Arrowhead Stadium. In this volunteer capacity the Section Chief will be a leader in his/her section to encourage your peers to be the 12th Man on and off the field. We also want you to provide feedback about stadium atmosphere (game production, fan involvement, suggestions to improve the game day experience, etc.). Throughout 2009, special programs and events will be planned for each section.
As a Section Chief, you will enjoy the following benefits:
* A Kickoff Meeting with Chiefs Interim President Denny Thum and Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus.
* A pregame field pass for the Chiefs preseason home game vs. Seattle.
Entry into a drawing to win a pair of tickets to the 2009 Border Showdown between the University of Missouri and the University of Kansas (2 winners selected).
Participation in the Opening Day 50th Anniversary pregame celebration.
* Two complimentary passes to the 2010 Chiefs Draft Day Party.
Your responsibilities will include:
* Completing and submitting an online Post-Game Satisfaction Survey the day following each of the 10 home games.
* Participating in 2-3 special programs and events during the 2009 season with season ticket holders in your section.
* Be a voice of your peers in providing feedback and information to/from your section and the Chiefs.
If you are interested in becoming a Section Chief, please click here to fill out and submit your application. Applications must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, April 10th. The finalists will be notified on April 17th and interviewed at the 2009 Draft Day Party on April 25th.
For those of you who have seats in more than one section, you should apply to be Section Chief in the section where you sit for games.
Thank you to those who have already submitted your application.
--------------------
After much cajoling and encouragement ... I'm in.
I filled out the application earlier today. Here is how I responded. Hopefully it's good enough to get me an interview. Even if its not ... please. Like I'd ever watch a game in that stadium anywhere other than section 132.
Name: steve.
Address: (where I currently live).
City: Kansas City.
State: MO.
ZIP: (my current zip code).
Phone Number: (my current phone number).
Cell Number: (my current cell number).
Email Address: teamtito15@yahoo.com.
Best Time to Reach You: evening.
Professional Information --
Employer: (my current employer).
Address: (my employer's address).
Phone: (my work phone number).
Position: financial accounting specialist. (Note: I've always loved, how both here and at "former employer best known for pyramid building in San Francisco", how the word "specialist" was included in my title. Really? I'm a specialist? I crunch numbers. I don't, like, build bombs or research cancer or create prescription drugs to cure disease. But I am a "specialist". That always kills me for some reason.)
Season Ticket Account: (my sth account number).
Section: 132.
Why Would You Like to Be a Section Chief: Because as anyone who sits by me can attest, nobody in my section gets more into a game than I do. Nobody in 132 is more passionate about this team than I am. And because I think it'd be a lot of fun.
Are You Committed to Attending 2-3 Special Events: Yes.
What Is Your Favorite Part of a Chiefs Game: There's so much I love. The honking of the horns at the gate at 8:30am to let us in. The little rituals and traditions that make our tailgating group so unique. The entire way the Anthem is performed, from the rockets shooting during "the rockets red glare", and the explosions during "the bombs bursting in air", to the "Home of the CHIEFS!" finale. "Start Me Up" on kickoffs. "We're Gonna Beat the Hell Out of You!" after touchdowns, with the red and gold streamers flying from the upper deck in joyful celebration. There's many more, but I'd like to save something for the interview.
Briefly Describe How the Chiefs Can Better Serve Their Fans: Three things. (1) fix the early arrival parking situation. We don't need off-duty Highway Patrolmen on an ego trip armed with guiding tape directing us where to park. Let the early arrivals find their spot and park together within a reasonable time frame, like happens in Houston. And like used to happen here. (2) Bring back the Royals / Chiefs preseason double-header day. We haven't had one since 2003. This should be a yearly celebration of the two things that make KC a major league city. (3) Do not, under any circumstance, in any situation, even contemplate for one second a PSL for each account. You will destroy whatever good will the new regime has restored in the fanbase, and drive many of us who can barely afford these tickets as is to simply give up and walk away. So far, so good on this one.
Verification Code: (i entered what was there).
Then I hit "submit", and that was it.
I'll post any updates as they become available. In the meantime, wish me luck. 132 is going to be the best section in Arrowhead this year! We gain so many great people from 131, like Russ and Mona, Chris and Greg, and Pat. We're gaining section 237's best fans, Gregg and family. And best of all, we're losing the weird guy who wears wolf ears on the aisle with a cigarette above each wolf ear. He's now 133's issue ...
mlb season picks
NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies 93-69
2. Atlanta Braves 88-74
3. New York Mets 86-76
4. Florida Marlins 79-83
5. Washington Nationals 65-97
Rationale: Phillies are still the best team in the division. I won't bet on the Mets until they prove it on the field, too big of choke artists the last few years. Braves in the mix for the wildcard now that starting pitching is better. Marlins are definition of mediocre, Nationals might be the worst team in the league.
NL Central
1. Chicago Cubs 95-67
2. St. Louis Cardinals 91-71
3. Cincinnati Reds 84-78
4. Milwaukee Brewers 80-82
5. Pittsburgh Pirates 70-92
6. Houston Astros 68-96
Rationale: Cubs are loaded and have no excuse to win this division ... save for one. And that excuse is Tony LaRussa, who will once again show why he's the greatest manager to ever grace the sport with his presence by milking another playoff berth out of an at-best average team. Reds are getting closer. Brewers lost too much pitching. Pirates and Astros are buried and the dirt is starting to pile up.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers 90-72 *
2. Arizona Diamondbacks 90-72
3. San Francisco Giants 75-87
4. Colorado Rockies 73-89
5. San Diego Padres 60-102
* = win division in one game playoff.
Rationale: Flip a coin, LA and Arizona should battle for the title all season long. The other three are simply aiming for respectability.
NL Wildcard: St. Louis Cardinals
NL MVP: Manny Ramirez, Dodgers
NL Cy Young: Cole Hamels, Phillies
NL Rookie of the Year: Cameron Maybin, Marlins
NL Manager of the Year: Tony LaRussa, Cardinals
First NL Manager Fired: Cecil Cooper, Astros
AL East
1. Tampa Bay Rays 95-67
2. New York Yankees 89-73
3. Boston Red Sox 88-74
4. Baltimore Orioles 75-87
5. Toronto Blue Jays 70-92
Rationale: The Rays got better, and they're the defending division and league champs. Why would you bet against them? Yankees pitching is slightly better than Boston's at this point, and that gets them the wildcard. Orioles and Blue Jays are nothing more than punching bags.
AL Central
1. Kansas City Royals 86-76
2. Minnesota Twins 85-77
3. Cleveland Indians 85-77
4. Chicago White Sox 83-79
5. Detroit Tigers 80-82
Rationale: I know I'm a traditionalist when it comes to baseball. I despite the wildcard. I hate the DH. I'm not a fan of interleague play, although at least I can see the rationale behind that decision. So ... this division in 2009 has me pumped up. Because every team is good enough to finish first, and flawed enough to finish last. And none of these squads are good enough to threaten the Yankees / Red Sox / Rays triumverate for the wildcard. This is literally a last-man-standing takes it brawl. And when those type of fights break out on the diamond, the team with the best pitching tends to win them. Hence ... my homer pick. The Royals are going streaking! I mean, going to the postseason! Because nobody in the division can match the Greinke / Meche top of the rotation, and nobody has a number 5 starter as good as Brian Bannister. (And nobody has a Hochevar ready to step in at a moment's notice). I expect all five teams to finish within 10 games of each other, and everyone to be in it at the August 31st waiver deadline, which will make for the funnest September this town has seen since 2003.
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels 89-73
2. Seattle Mariners 79-83
3. Texas Rangers 70-92
4. Oakland A's 69-93
Rationale: the one division you can mark your preseason pick in ink with. Nobody comes close to the Angels. Nobody.
AL Wildcard: New York Yankees
AL MVP: Evan Longoria, Rays
AL Cy Young: Zack Greinke, Royals
AL Rookie of the Year: Matt Weiters, Orioles
AL Manager of the Year: Trey Hillman, Royals
First AL Manager Fired: Jim Leyland, Tigers
Divisional Playoffs:
Cubs over Dodgers 3-1
Cardinals over Phillies 3-1
Rays over Royals 3-2
Yankees over Angels 3-1
League Championship Series:
Cubs over Cardinals 4-2
Yankees over Rays 4-2
World Series:
Cubs over Yankees 4-3
1. Philadelphia Phillies 93-69
2. Atlanta Braves 88-74
3. New York Mets 86-76
4. Florida Marlins 79-83
5. Washington Nationals 65-97
Rationale: Phillies are still the best team in the division. I won't bet on the Mets until they prove it on the field, too big of choke artists the last few years. Braves in the mix for the wildcard now that starting pitching is better. Marlins are definition of mediocre, Nationals might be the worst team in the league.
NL Central
1. Chicago Cubs 95-67
2. St. Louis Cardinals 91-71
3. Cincinnati Reds 84-78
4. Milwaukee Brewers 80-82
5. Pittsburgh Pirates 70-92
6. Houston Astros 68-96
Rationale: Cubs are loaded and have no excuse to win this division ... save for one. And that excuse is Tony LaRussa, who will once again show why he's the greatest manager to ever grace the sport with his presence by milking another playoff berth out of an at-best average team. Reds are getting closer. Brewers lost too much pitching. Pirates and Astros are buried and the dirt is starting to pile up.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers 90-72 *
2. Arizona Diamondbacks 90-72
3. San Francisco Giants 75-87
4. Colorado Rockies 73-89
5. San Diego Padres 60-102
* = win division in one game playoff.
Rationale: Flip a coin, LA and Arizona should battle for the title all season long. The other three are simply aiming for respectability.
NL Wildcard: St. Louis Cardinals
NL MVP: Manny Ramirez, Dodgers
NL Cy Young: Cole Hamels, Phillies
NL Rookie of the Year: Cameron Maybin, Marlins
NL Manager of the Year: Tony LaRussa, Cardinals
First NL Manager Fired: Cecil Cooper, Astros
AL East
1. Tampa Bay Rays 95-67
2. New York Yankees 89-73
3. Boston Red Sox 88-74
4. Baltimore Orioles 75-87
5. Toronto Blue Jays 70-92
Rationale: The Rays got better, and they're the defending division and league champs. Why would you bet against them? Yankees pitching is slightly better than Boston's at this point, and that gets them the wildcard. Orioles and Blue Jays are nothing more than punching bags.
AL Central
1. Kansas City Royals 86-76
2. Minnesota Twins 85-77
3. Cleveland Indians 85-77
4. Chicago White Sox 83-79
5. Detroit Tigers 80-82
Rationale: I know I'm a traditionalist when it comes to baseball. I despite the wildcard. I hate the DH. I'm not a fan of interleague play, although at least I can see the rationale behind that decision. So ... this division in 2009 has me pumped up. Because every team is good enough to finish first, and flawed enough to finish last. And none of these squads are good enough to threaten the Yankees / Red Sox / Rays triumverate for the wildcard. This is literally a last-man-standing takes it brawl. And when those type of fights break out on the diamond, the team with the best pitching tends to win them. Hence ... my homer pick. The Royals are going streaking! I mean, going to the postseason! Because nobody in the division can match the Greinke / Meche top of the rotation, and nobody has a number 5 starter as good as Brian Bannister. (And nobody has a Hochevar ready to step in at a moment's notice). I expect all five teams to finish within 10 games of each other, and everyone to be in it at the August 31st waiver deadline, which will make for the funnest September this town has seen since 2003.
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels 89-73
2. Seattle Mariners 79-83
3. Texas Rangers 70-92
4. Oakland A's 69-93
Rationale: the one division you can mark your preseason pick in ink with. Nobody comes close to the Angels. Nobody.
AL Wildcard: New York Yankees
AL MVP: Evan Longoria, Rays
AL Cy Young: Zack Greinke, Royals
AL Rookie of the Year: Matt Weiters, Orioles
AL Manager of the Year: Trey Hillman, Royals
First AL Manager Fired: Jim Leyland, Tigers
Divisional Playoffs:
Cubs over Dodgers 3-1
Cardinals over Phillies 3-1
Rays over Royals 3-2
Yankees over Angels 3-1
League Championship Series:
Cubs over Cardinals 4-2
Yankees over Rays 4-2
World Series:
Cubs over Yankees 4-3
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