Monday, August 31, 2009

Worst to First #19

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

Give us some 'o dat non-sequential supermagic, Deuce.


Pant-y Droppers



Oh beautiful irony. The only people who didn't pitch tent just now? Any San Francisco 49er's fans (because they're gay by virture of living in "the Bay") and b. Lee (because he finds thongs on a woman "tasteless, gross and lacking in functionality." Also he's gay too).

Don't ever say your Uncle Deuce isn't a man for the masses. There were dozens of pictures of pimply, wrinkly, hairy and otherwise very non-aesthetically pleasing asses that I found in my Google image search for "mooning". I could have chosen any one of them to commemorate one of the greatest half-time speeches in NFL History, but it's Monday and you're welcome.


Welcome to this year's Houston Texans. The 49ers are this season's So-Sleepy-They-Aren't-A-Real-Sleeper-Anymore team. I usually try to stay tempered on teams like this, since they are so consistently overrated and underachieving, usually due to a strong finish in the previous season against teams either too shitty or too excellent to play hard. But...I believe in these guys, this year and starts with the Bossman. Singletary certainly had his share of ups & downs last year when his stubborn, stonewalling, calling-you-out, speak-then-think, tough-guy tactics resembled that of a JV high school coach. Baby Josh McD has taken a similar approach in Denver, and check how that's working out.

disclaimer: Chicago bias emerging...

So what makes Singletary any different than McDaniels? The man's got the resume and experience, and the scars and the limps, to back up his words and actions. His HOF playing career and overall respectful-unless-we're-between-the-stripes attitude towards the sport allows his players the tutelage of a guy who is walking proof that HIS way works, as long as everyone falls in line. Rather than a geeky videographer who sucked the right dicks to climb the corporate ladder to a position where he can swing his own dick around like the world's smallest sledgehammer, if you will.

So the 2009 Niners will be nothing if not a reflection of their coach: certainly tough and hopefully as football-savvy as old Iron Mike. Despite their bottom-half ranking, I see them playing a lot of close games thanks to their defense, which should put them in position to win games they shouldn't, which should leave them close enough to the playoffs come January to not be considered total failures. Unlike The '04-'05 Baltimore Ravens, there aren't enough big-play guys and scoring threats on D to be considered "contenders." But they'll be good, and never an easy win. Though the team has holes, make no mistake about that...

Such as a completely one-dimensional offense without a QB or WR on the roster that would start for any other team. And a biologically-constructed TE who apparently can't run routes or catch passes. And a baseball field to play on.

But.

Patrick Willis (who can probably now safely remove the "young" from his Best Young Linebacker moniker), Manny Lawson, Justin Smith and Co. will headline a defense created in the image and likeness of Singletary. Which is one most teams certainly won't be excited to face. Especially Willis. Homeboy was already dynamic, and now he gets some tutoring from one of the most intelligent, feared and technically-sound defenders of the last 50 years. So consider yourself on notice for the P-Williz Rampage about to chew up and spit out a Slant route near you. A little bit of help and progress from the secondary, and the unit could sniff "elite" status this year, in my opinion.

Despite the glaring lack of any passing threat, I love San Fran's transparency about their offense. Singletary's Niners are going to run the shit out of the ball with Frank Gore until he's tired. Then, they're going to run the shit out of the ball with Glenn Coffee and Michael Robinson until Gore has sucked enough wind. Then, More Gore. And they don't give a SHIT if you know it. This is why I like Singletary. He's got no illusions of beating a defense with reactive play-calling and audibles. He knows what his players can do well, and he's determined to do that well enough to out-execute and out-pound whatever and whoever lines up on the other side. It's a philosophy that breeds confidence in athletes and pride in a system.

One might almost call it blue-collar. Or in other words, totally unsymbolic of every smug, self-righteous, insufferable douchebag who lives in their city.

WE MUST PROTECT THIS HOUSE!

Blogsturbation Monday


What America needs is one giant tube of vagisil



When I first envisioned this post, I was going to really go after the Michigan football players that snitched on their coach because practice was a little long. Because honestly, with the way these guys played last year, they probably never should have left the practice field at all. Like, ever. Not for class, not for sleep, and definitely not for games. I mean, spare your school as well as your once fabled program at least some dignity, will yuh?

Turns out they were not even actually complaining at all. Instead it was just the way that the story was reported that gave the impression that this was the case. They were merely volunteering the information without any judgment attached.

Either way, it appears that the real whiner is Dickrod himself. No wonder the Wolvies were so soft on the pitch last year. If a squad is supposed to assume the personality of their coach (USC - balanced, Florida - dreamy, Alabama - conniving, Notre Dame - fat and embarrassing), then what are we to assume about Dickrod. I think the video from the link makes it pretty obvious. Really looking forward to that Bowl of Tears between the Irish and Big Blue this year. Winner gets to keep their job... Maybe.


In other Hoo-Hah:


Gotta say, that out of all the moves made down the stretch run in the MLB, none have been as effective as what the White Sox have done. Alex Rios has been powering them to the top of the Central while Jake Peavy has been silencing bats across the American League...

Kgh..

Zzt...

BAHHHHHHHHHH!!!

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

They've actually been getting worse since these transaction were made... Impressive.

And did anyone hear what Andrea Kremer had to say about the culture of the Broncos last night?

Patriots West is what she actually referred to them as. Made me so damn proud. And one thing is for certain, if McDaniels fairs as well as the rest of the New England Belichick discipleship, then the Broncos have like 5 or 6 wins to look forward to over the next 2 years before a new coach is brought in. Best of luck, Josh!

Lastly, can't believe that AA hasn't commented on Rodney Harrison's debut in the booth last night. He was poised and to the point, even cracking a few jokes in the process. So maybe he should be on Baseball Tonight? Not his forte, but let's just say that he couldn't hurt. Looking forward to some verbal spears from Rodney for the next 17 weeks or so.

Worst to First #18

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

Why you gotta make me feel inferior 'cause I'm workin' the grill, b. Lee?


The Wolfpack



Fuck you, Packer nation. Seriously. And apologies for the relation in tone that this shares with Deadspin's version of the season preview. However, for all of your talk about being so in tune with your football team, you really have your collective head jammed straight up your collectively HUGE asshole.

When Captain A Rodg arrived at camp, he could not have been greeted more rudely and coldly. So much for those Midwestern hokie doke manners, eh? As if it his fault that our BFF is a fickle slut, and that as a fanbase, you are nothing more than a collection of nostalgic, co-dependent ex-lovers.

BFF FUCKED YOU! And not in the good way (Sidebar: Is there, in fact, a good way for BFF to fuck you at all? I have to lean toward the negative. Although it would be sort of interesting to see if his pubes are also grizzled and multi-colored). If it weren't for your heroic management team, spear-headed by BBTT (Big Balls Ted Thompson), you'd be screwed (again, not in the good way) . The man saved your squad whether you know it or not... And based on the quality of your local news staff and your narrow-interest in saturated fats, you don't.

BFF ruined the Jets season last year (as well as the Patriots'), and this year you can be damn sure that he is going to ruin any shot that the formerly well-balanced Vikings would have at a Super Bowl. The man is indecisive for a reason. I mean, anytime he makes a quick decision it is usually bad for anyone on his side of the ball. Were his 22 interceptions last year not obvious enough for you? Is his arrogance in believing that he can simply show up halfway through training camp and be productive and precise not apparent enough for you? He's donezo.

Let it go.


Brad Childress is too dumb to realize it, but BBTT is not, and he saved your shitty little franchise, so by all means, kiss his ass. I'll get him to stick a cheese curd up there beforehand if that sweetens the deal for you at all.

And by all means, rejoice Fat Nation! For the Packers could very well do some damage this year. As far as we can see it, the NFC North is wide open thanks to the Vikings epic blunder. Your offense is quite possibly elite. With a top 10 passing game, top 5 scoring offense (26 points per game in '08), and a potentially resurgent running game, your offense should keep you on the field against just about any team, especially your divisional opponents considering that you get to play the Lions twice, the Bears secondary is wilting, and well, let's just say BFF will make sure to get your offense as many cracks at the end zone as his busted arm will allow.

The big question is will your defense sufficiently complement this arsenal? The return of Nick Barnett will surely help the Packers plug the run a little better, and hopefully he will rub off on the eternally lost AJ Hawk. Looks like the birdman may have been aided by the sorry offenses of the Big 10 more than we would like to let on. And with some new, (drug free!) blood in the mix from the likes of BJ Raji, the pass rush should certainly benefit as well. Because while shoot-outs are fun, if your defense is allowing 24 points a game (as they did in 2008), then not even BFF circa '99 could erase those debts.

So take a good fucking look around Mr and Mrs. Schlitz; the Packers down year was not a result of BFF being somewhere else, or Aaron Rodgers' flowing locks, or even because of the ever-rising price of corn. Rather, it was because your defense sucked. But, this year, things should be better. The offense is stacked, and the defense couldn't be worse, right...?

Right?

Anyway best of luck this season, and don't forget about Ted Thompson's anal curd kiss...

Like you got anything else to do in Manitowoc on a Friday night.

Friday, August 28, 2009

En Route: Loungin'


So, the previous high for posts has been shattered in the month of August, and we still got one more day left to inflate the state some more. All we needed was a little shot in the arm courtesy of an NFL pre-season. Not much happening over the weekend since neither the NFL nor NCAA have anything to offer us just yet, aside from some 4th quarter baseball which is interesting only if you're into the whole every game counts thing (yawn).

But while you're indoors hiding from the fury of Tropicana Storm Danny, please consider the following question:


We covered the bottom 12 teams (13 if you include the odds-on-favorite- to-win-Super Bowl-XLIII-Buffalo Bills) thus far. Of these teams, who has the best chance of being a sleeper, either finishing above .500 (unexpectedly) and/or making the playoffs?


Comment, if you would.



And, here's what you got coming next week!


  • A Defense of Rick Pitino through the prism of Roman Catholic High Christology

  • An in-depth interview with Michael Vick: Does he believe that all dogs do go to heaven?

  • Athletic programs at faith-based universities; is God truly on their side?

Oh who the fuck are we really kidding here?


  • 10 to 12 more NFL Previews? You got it.

Make it a good one e'rbody

HEADLINES. . . !

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Apropos of nothing...

It wasn't just the champion of the "My Shirt Is More Killer Than Your Shirt" contest known as Lollapalooza...

...it's also my new mantra.

Until "The doctor thinks there's a chance I have swine flu" buys me a week or 2 of sick days. Best part's gonna be returning to work wearing a t-shirt stating: "Nah, turns out I was just really tired."

Other acceptable "I thought I had swine flu but now I don't" explanations include but are not limited to:

- Nah, turns out I just wasn't drinking enough water.

-Nah, turns out I got syphillis from b. Lee's Mom.

-Nah, allergies.

-Nah, mind your own fucking business.

Worst to First #22... #21.. and #20

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

b Lee, please expedite.


The Seedy Underbelly



Deuce and I realized that we are currently off the pace to complete this enormously terrible idea prior to the first game of the season, so rather than scrapping the whole idea mid-stream (as is Deuce's MO), we decided to come up with new and inventive ways to get this square peg into the got dang round hole. Which is why we are going to be covering all the non-Patriots teams that make up the AFC East in this singular post.

So, let's get to it.

Next to the ugliness that was the AFC West, there wasn't a bigger clusterfuck than the AFC East last year. Three teams were all competing for one playoff spot, and nothing was decided until 7PM EDT on the final Sunday of the season. Otherwise known as the day when BFF's career should have ended... But like for real this time.

Yep, if good ol' cocksucker wasn't so shitty and, I don't know, didn't throw maybe the worst INT of his life, then the Patriots would have been in the playoffs, CC Pennington would have never gotten the opportunity to embarrass himself, and perhaps Matt Cassel would have been worth more than a second round pick. But let's not dwell on the Pats (or the past), for they will be covered later on, MUCH further on down the line.

Instead we will focus on the Race for Runner-Up. Which one of these competitive, yet undeniably incomplete teams will finish second in the AFC East?

My guess is the Dolphins (#22) pick up right where they left off; getting worked. No one was ready for these assholes last year. Pennington had something to prove, a new coach inspired some confidence in an already cocky unit, and then there was that fucking wildcat which single-handedly ended nearly 50% of all survivors in Suicide Leagues across the world in week 3. Bastards.

Problem is, if you put the game in Pennington's hands by loading the box, then, well, you see what happens. CC had fantastic protection and actually threw for more yards than Romo, Ryan, and BFF. But to be fair, the Dolphins benefited from having the easiest schedule in the league in 2008, and even as the season progressed, their ability to put points on the board became an issue (with the exception of putting up 38 points against the god awful Chiefs in week 16.... A game in which they also allowed 31 points against those same god awful Chiefs).

And rather than boosting their offense in the offseason, management unsurprisingly, yet ill-advisedly went all defense. The Dolphins still do not have a number 1 receiver, their quarterback can't throw the ball more than 20 yards, and worst of all, everyone now knows what to expect. Dolphins finish last in the East this year.


But the Jets (#21) won't be much better. Sanchez will probably be just as good as BFF. Meaning he will make forced and unforced errors throughout the course of the season while he adapts to the speed and sophistication of NFL defenses. And without some serious help from T. Jones and company, the Jets offense could be in for a seriously long season.

Sure, the defense has improved with the addition of Bart Scott, Lite Shepherd, and of course, a coach named Ryan. But, if the offense can't stay on the field, then the defense will only hold up for so long. And although it bears some resemblance, a Baltimore defense the Jets do not have. Not yet anyway. After all, in 2008 the Jets defense was on par with the Cincinnati Bengals defense, unless you're talking passing defense... The Bengals had a way better season than the Jets did in that category, as did most of the league.

But honestly, if the Jets went 10-6 with a rookie quarterback it would make me happy, if only for how bad the Vikings decision would look in relation.


And lastly, those sad bastard Bills (#20). Haven't seen the Weekly Bills in a while, and that's mainly because our favorite Bills fan is too busy building up a mountain of expectation for the upcoming season, like the good delusionist that he is. Which basically describes ALL Bills fans are for that matter.

Maybe you haven't heard, but the Bills landed TO in the offseason. Yes, sir. In perhaps the the biggest WTF? moment of the entire year, the Bills finally added a wide receiver that could be a viable, non-season-threatening fantasy option. And this addition should significantly improve the 25th best offense in the league... But by how much?

The good news is that JP Losman is gone for good. The question is, what the fuck took so long? Every time he was on the field, he made everyone worse, with the exception of the opposing defense. He made them better. Now when Trent Edwards gets hurt, he's got fuckin Fitzy from Hahvid to back him up. So that's an... upgrade?

For real, the Bills could put something reasonable together this year. Their young defense should improve this season with the return of a healthy Paul Posluszny, Jabari Greer, and (hopefully) Aaron Schobel. With Terrence McGee holding down one side of the backfield, the Bills should see some improvement from the likes of Leodis McKelvin who stepped in for an injured Greer last year.

The biggest question mark is going to be the offensive line, however. Even with a possession guy like TO and a BEAST like Marshawn, if Edwards doesn't have the time nor Marshawn the lanes, than a stalled offense is what we will witness once again.

Donk the Honkey is convinced that the Bills are winning the division this year as soon as Tom Brady blows out his knee again.

The only thing I'm convinced of is that the Bills, sooner or later, are moving to Toronto.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Worst to First #23

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

b Lee, what's up with the boots on your feet?


Jack's Jag Reflex




There's no question which team was the biggest disappointment in the NFL last year. Of course, it was the Jets. The second biggest disappointment had to have been the Jaguars. In 2007, the Jaguars were to challenge the undefeated Patriots in the playoffs, mainly because of their above average defense and their strong running game. They didn't, but whatever.

At the beginning of the 2008 season, David Garrard had removed any doubt that he was the quarterback of the future. The Jags could only get better, right?

Or, not.

2008 was a full-on meltdown for Jacksonville. Before the season even began, both Fred Taylor and Matt "Snow" Jones were arrested and their backup offensive tackle
(Collier) was shot and critically wounded, ending his career in the process. Along with these incidents came a rash of injuries and it wasn't long before the Jags were eliminated from playoff contention, finishing the season with a record of 5-11.

Both offense and defense struggled dramatically throughout the season as well as shown below:

Defense
2007: 5,021 yards allowed - Rank: 12 (19 points allowed per game)
2008: 5,295 yards allowed - Rank : 17 (23 points allowed per game)

Offense
2007: 5,719 yards gained - Rank 7 (25 points per game)
2008: 5,106 yards gained - Rank 20 (19 points per game)

Maybe the offense was actually the problem, especially when considering the 11 balls laid on the turf and David Garrard's 153 INTs (He only threw THREE in 2007).

So, why would the Jags be any better this year? Perhaps because they got rid of their number 1 receiver (and best skier, coincidentally) in Matt Jones? Now, for a team that averages a mere 208 yards passing a game, can you really afford such a loss?

Or, is it because they allowed the their number 2 running back to walk away? Some may argue that because MJD now has a full season to perform, that this could potentially boost offensive production due to the breakaway talent that the little guy possesses. But, at the same time, MJD has never had to carry a full load throughout the course of an entire season. Whether or not he can support the weight that such a position levies, is a big question mark.

The Jags did go out and add a slew of young wide receivers in the offseason, hoping to boost their ability to stretch the field, opening up the field for MJD to run wild, and in stark contrast to the passed few years when the Jaguars believed solely in the "Possession Receiver" philosophy of losers across the football world. Whether these young guns make an immediate impact is a big question mark, as well.

But the bigger question mark is, even if the Jags have improved at all, can they compete this year in an ever-improving AFC South? The Titans will still be good enough, the Texans are getting better, and the Colts are still the Colts (checkered history with the Jaguars duly noted).

Or, maybe the trainer just needs to crack Mr. Henderson in the face with 2x4 prior each game instead of just using his bare hand.

Hey, it worked in Tommy Boy.


Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Worst to First #24


The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

Deuce? Present.


The Pungent Sound






Would you believe me if I told you that the Seattle Seahawks have only three below-.500 seasons this decade? True story; and I was equally shocked. I consider it proof positive that there is not a more uninteresting and mundane franchise in the NFL. I don't dislike Seattle. I don't like 'em either. More than anything I don't give a shit about them. They're never too threatening, and never too much of a pushover. Mostly, the team just exists in a perpetual cycle of over-achievement over 3 years or so. All this despite playing the victim to one of the more overt screwjobs in NFL playoff history; that nobody outside of the Pacific Northwest even remembers anymore. I suppose it's hard to emphathize with TE's who have a "Rape" rating on Madden '10 of 99.

I had to push to get the Seahawks ranked this high, perhaps ignorantly. There isn't a lot of reason to believe they'll be any better this year than the 4-12 assbomb produced last year, except for the possibility that Seneca Wallace will catch more passes than he throws (a good thing if you're a Seattle fan). Call it a hunch, or playing the patterns, but I do think they will improve from last year to this. Only one way to go...

Quietly (as if there is any other way), Seattle has plugged a few pieces into their offensive puzzle that should be good for business, provided Hasselback stays on the field and out of a back brace. The Housh is the type of receiver who should slide seemlessly into most teams gameplan: precise route-runner with reliable hands and consistent effort. I also have a hunch that he could thrive even more out of the spotlight (or flashing red lights) of Cincinnati. I like the pick-up of Edge James, too, only because he can't possibly make their running game any worse than it is already. Throw in a healthy Deion Branch, and Seattle has some offensive weapons. If they can ever get on the field.

Last year's defense was atrocious. This year? Unless Aaron Curry = Lawrence Taylor (he doesn't), then a few less YPG might be the ceiling. Their secondary is a disaster, and only failed to lead the league in passing TD's relingquished due to the amount of lengthy scoring runs by untouched tailbacks. I do like Curry as a player, especially running around with Lofa Tatupu. Those two might cause some havoc...maybe, MAYBE even as much as the vaunted Sixth Man crowd; though I truly believe all that chanting and foot-stomping is really a plea to the rain gods to LAY THE FUCK OFF ON THE PRECIPITATION for like...2 days in a row? Please?

You're still reading? Slow day at the office, eh? I haven't been this shocked since that half-naked chick in the gas station bathroom in Austin with her own name tattooed on her neck told me she was a prostitute. I'm guessing she was equally shocked when Jables unleashed a bumper right in her mouth. (Bet you didn't know that your very own Deuce used to write for Family Guy).

Maybe new boss Jim Mora II will spice things up for our rain-soaked, coffee-stained, uppity friends to the north, but I've got no confidence. What am I confident in? That despite a great home-field advantage and a REALLY favorable schedule, Seattle is looking at 6-10 in 2009. Which should put them in the thick of the division race well into December. They DO still play in the NFC west, right?

Now go ahead. Talk amongst yourselves.


Introducing: Evolution of a Nickname



Dealing with some high science here as the image above suggests. However, as soon as the sheet ® drops this will become much more obvious. And before we begin, allow me to offer a demonstration:

Started off with a South Park episode...


Mr. Ginger


Then it evolved with a Flight of the Conchords episode...


Gingerballs


But due to irreconcilable gender differences (as well as another South Park episode)...


Ginger Minge


Then for the sake of brevity...


Ginge (Jin-Jeh)


And lastly to class things up a bit...


Le Ginge.

So it is fairly straightforward. It just takes time. Much like the former hunk of coal that hangs around the finger of your automaton of a companion.

But if we apply this same progression to the sports world we come to the case of one,
Willie Parker

Affectionately referred to by his teammates as...


Fast Willie


But he's hurt all the time and thus earns the following moniker


Glass Willie


Yet, that does not really sound like an athlete does it?

Instead...

It sounds like a...


Dildo



Willie Parker is The Dildo.


Make sense? As you can see, season can't start soon enough, ladies and gents.


Monday, August 24, 2009

Worst to First #25

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

b. Lee, if you would be so kind.


Champ's Chumps


I made Deuce switch with me at the last moment so that HE could have his PRECIOUS turdbirds, and so I could have the opportunity to read about the dreamy Champ Bailey as much as possible. However, in retrospect, this may have have been a poor choice because the Broncos are just fucking kidding themselves this year.

I liken them to Chicago's "Hey Champ" (pictured above). Sure, on a big stage they might look like a legit band, but when you begin to dissect and break things down a little bit, appearances prove to be deceiving.

My those uniforms are so shiny... But what is with your quarterback's facial hair? That doesn't look good at all...

New coach, used quarterback, rookie running back, disgruntled wide receiver, broken defense...

Look out AFC!

This spring, new, retarded head coach Josh McDaniels decided that it would be a good idea to replace the leader of the 3rd best passing offense in the league with the backup quarterback from the 12th best passing offense in the league. Instead, he got neither and ended up with the quarterback from 12th worst passing offense. Hats off, dumbass. When people say "Make a splash", they're usually not referring to full-on belly flop into the kiddie pool.

And thus, when your offense is headed by a pre-adolescent, a quarterback who apparently believes he is a lion, a young, unproven running back who can jump high (?), a wife-beating psychopath with mad skills (when he is actually on the field), and a flash-in-the-pan sophomore destined for a Santana Moss-like level of consistency, you had better hope that your defense gives you plenty of cracks at the end zone.

Oh, that's right, Denver's defense is a fucking tragedy. Minus The Champ, of course. But God's Gift to the Secondary, even when combined with the new Mile High Missile, cannot plug all the holes in this sieve defense.

So let's go ahead and put these puzzle pieces together: a slightly improved defense (soft-serve instead of straight up liquid diarrhea), and a deteriorating offense? Might have these clowns overrated in the Worst to First spectrum.

What's that? The air is really thin in Denver?

At least it won't clash with the talent-level then.

The Dubious Case of John Calipari


Why do we have any respect for Coach John Calipari? Is it because of his NCAA Final Four appearances (0*)? Or is it because of his platinum NBA playoff record (0-3)?

No? Well, then it must be that hair because for the life of me, I cannot figure out why this man has any standing in the basketball world or in life, in general.

Let's take a look at his resume, shall we?

UMass: Never known as a basketball powerhouse, the Minutemen rapidly ascended into the top 25 after only 3 years under the Calipari regime. UMass soon started bringing in All- Americans such as Lou Roe and Marcus Camby. And in 1996, UMass earned their first Final Four bid in school history before losing (ironically enough) to Kentucky.

Of course, the school would later vacate this appearance after Marcus Camby was caught accepting cash from agents attempting to get him into the NBA draft. Of course, Camby just decided to go to UMass on his own, and was not enticed with any gifts or lowered standards allowing him admission to the school. Because Calipari coached schools would never stoop to such tactics...

Calipari fled the scene as soon as the NCAA tournament had concluded, accepting a head coaching job with the New Jersey Nets.

Fast-forward to 2008; Memphis is coming off a stellar run to the Final Four, but also happens to be reeling from the loss of their prized point guard and resident remedial student, Derrick Rose. Rumors are swirling about some shady business occurring in the Memphis Admissions office, specifically with regard to potential athletes. In time, the Tigers are dispatched from the 2009 NCAA tournament and almost immediately, it is reported that Memphis' Derrick Rose was too dumb to get into college, so he had someone else take his SATs for him. Calipari and company just didn't have a problem with it at the time.

However, it apparently became a problem when Memphis' magical Final Four run was erased from the record books, and Calipari, as usual, took a job somewhere else as soon as the shit hit the fan.

I liken this asshole to the storied father figure from Fight Club; fucker just goes around setting up doomed franchises, promising at first, but fleeing when anything resembling responsibility rears it's head, and then leaving temporary family in shambles on his way toward friendlier waters (Also see, The Mariner's Revenge Song).

So, here goes nothing Kentucky. Let's just hope you signed a pre-nup prior to the honeymoon, because for guys like Calipari, the grass is always greener on the other side... Mainly because he just took on dump on your side of the fence.

Friday, August 21, 2009

Worst to First #26


The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

b. Lee, come on down.


Alzheimer's Al


I liken the ridiculous "Time Travel" storyline in Lost to the transition made by the band 311 when they stopped getting high all the time and started believing in aliens. Both became less compelling and ultimately ridiculous, as a result. Kind of like Al Davis' tenure as the owner of the Raiders over the last decade. Sure, they made a Super Bowl, and got trounced. Since then (2002), Oakland's best record has been 5-11. Which to be fair, they have achieved twice. So they got that going for them.

For years, Al Davis has been meddling with the team's structure, desperately seeking the elusive vertical passing game, firing coaches and just generally creeping people out. And in 2008, it finally paid off, and to the tune of over 2,300 passing yards! Look out! Yep, that's almost ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY yards a game! But to be fair, the Raiders did have to face the vaunted Denver, San Diego and Kansas City defenses 6 times last year (all of whom ranked 26th or lower in pass defense).

So to bolster this pathetic passing offense, Crazy Al went out and drafted #1 receiving prospect Michael Crabtree, who will surely help to stabilize this floundering attack...

What's that? They didn't draft Crabtree.

Then who did they draft?

They drafted who?

Darrius Heyward-Bey.

Who the fuck is that?

Are you joking?

Oh, well, looks like the Raiders haven't improved their passing attack after all.

However, if Darren Mac can stay on the field this year, then the Raiders should be able to improve on their 10th ranked rushing game. That's right, 10th! They will of course have to put the ball into the end zone a lot more than 9 times this season if they're going to run for nearly 2,000 yards again, especially considering the futility of their non-improving passing game.

And will the Raiders' defense even be able to even stop the run this season? With the NFL's second worst rushing defense in 2008, management responded to this statistic by going out and drafting a defensive end and attracting the pass rushing Greg Ellis over from Dallas. Two good moves, even though neither of them actually addresses the issue. Defensive lines are, more often than not, vulnerable up the middle, and not on the edges. So again, good call Papa Al. Good thing your secondary boasts perhaps the best CB in the NFL (next to my main man, Champ, of course) in Nnamdi Asomugha. But if anything, this is just going to encourage teams to run the ball even more, wearing down your defense over the course of the game because your offense cannot score TD's either by land or sea... Or air.

My prediction is that the Raiders are going to be this year's Niners... From the last 5 years. They are in an absolutely horrible division with three of the weakest teams in the NFL, and as a result everyone will talk about how they could be a potential sleeper, yet they won't even end up even sniffing .500 once again.

And it's all thanks to Big Gay Al! So keep up the good work, crypt keeper. Because if this keeps up, you will be dragging your prized franchise right into the grave with you... Although neither can really happen soon enough.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Worst to First #27

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

Don't fuck up the rotation, Deucer...


We're Not Detroit




So apparently I'm the go-to on all things Ohigh-o. And gee, I couldn't be more honored. I mean, Ohio is a great state for certain things. Like...driving through on your way to other, better, and more exciting states. Or...inhaling pollution, committing homicide and being fat. It's also great for making fun of in a snarky blog post.

The more I marinate over these previews, the more I think that even at #27, we might have the Brownies a little too highly rated. The word disarray seems to come to mind more than any other in considering the '09 Browns, both from a coaching and talent perspective. Except maybe poop. That one comes to mind a lot in general. Coach Eric Mangini got run out of the Big City due to an inability to connect with, motivate and garner any semblance of respect from his players (contrary to popular opinion that the Jets fired him with cause after his chesticles stopped lactating regularly). And that was before he had to deal with the likes of Shaun Rogers. I'm not sure Mangini's "tough guy" schtick is gonna taste any better to his new soldiers than his old, which is only the beginning of the Cleve's issues.

For starters, the "face of the franchise", while certainly adept at keeping his hands on the ball(s), can't even pull a legitimate endorsement deal. EAS? I've never actually seen this stuff on shelves. Can we confirm that this is an actual product that can be bought in a store like GNC and not out of the back of Buick Skylark from some guy that approached you in the corner of the locker room after spin class? I guess if Beautiful Brady Quinn can't revive to storied franchise famous for the Dawg Pound, he's got a decent shot to revive the He-Man franchise in time for a Dec. 27th match-up with Skeletor.


Let's go ahead and make Braylon Edwards the poster child for the demise of a team with one of the most explosive offenses in the league 2 years ago. In addition to leading the NFL in dropped passes, Stonehands "led" (and I use that term loosely) the team in receiving yards and TD's, with 3(!) last season. As a team, Cleveland had 11 TOTAL receiving touchdowns in '08. Pretty impressive considering that's half the amount of interceptions thrown by their quarterbacks combined. Factor in those astonishing 6 total rushing touchdowns and 4 fumbles lost and we get a TD to TO ratio of 17: 24.

17 touchdowns.

24 turnovers.

Yikes.

Now, if you are the 04-05 Ravens, that just over 1 touchdown a game average is perfectly acceptable; since it's nullified by your murderous defense. These Turds aren't quite as lucky. Full of career under-achievers and guys I've never heard of, the Browns flaccid defense really gave the Awffense a run for its money last year in sucktitude; with only 5 teams allowing more yards than Cleveland.

If you set an O/U for "Interceptions by Brown defenders in 2008" at 2.5, I'd hop on the over quicker than Jables on a Thai hooker's tit. And then I'd feel like an asshole when I found out that the entire team combined to intercept TWO passes. Two. 2. II. Or, 1 less meaningful reception than Braylon Edwards made all season.

Epitome of how bad I think the Browns are? Their only bright spots are the return of the league's leading tackler in D'Qwell Jackson, dangerous return-man Josh Cribbs (hopefully) and NOT having to witness Romeo Crennel's famed "mid-day feedings" which may or may not have contributed to last year's outbreak of staph infection.

Jesus, when you put it all down on paper, these guys are really a fucking trainwreck. Though, there's probably nobetter place for Donte Stallworth to be than not playing football. Jamal Lewis is probably an ideal mentor/boyfriend. Poor Moses Cleveland...


Willie Shakes: Fantasy Laureate

We embrace the world of fantasy sports here at FSD, much like we embrace porn. But given our track record, in fantasy football and not in the sack, we are in no position to give any sound advice on how you should approach your individual drafts. Therefore, we sought out the services of one Willie Shakes, who is going position by position, again, for fantasy football, not the sack, so that you know who to snag, and who to avoid. But Willie is a cultured lad who prefers to avoid using polarizing terms such as Love and Hate. Instead, well, you'll see...

Do it to us, Bill!


Running Backs

It's time to run with the backs....Note, no dreadlocks were harmed during the making of this post.


A note on 1st pick contemplation. I'm not overthinking this pick. If it's mine, I take the only back in the league with a shot at a 2,000 yard season. I know Purple Jesus has had some injuries, but as Tom Brady taught us, anyone can get injured on any play. While the Burner will contribute huge, the addition of Tony Gonzalez should lessen his value in the red zone. Turner is also coming off a 370 plus carry season. See Larry Johnson.


I'm going to do this slightly different than my other columns due to the amount of RB's that will go in the fist and second round.

Backs 1-14 as listed in the ESPN.com rankings are as follows:

  1. Adrian Peterson
  2. Michael Turner
  3. Maurice Jones-Drew
  4. Matt Forte
  5. Steven Jackson
  6. Chris Johnson
  7. LaDainian Tomlinson
  8. DeAngelo Williams
  9. Frank Gore
  10. Brandon Jacobs
  11. Steve Slaton
  12. Clinton Portis
  13. Marion Barber
  14. Brian Westbrook

In the first and second round I am disfavoring Steven Jackson, Jacobs, and Westbrook. I'd be happy with any other of the backs, and here is why:

Predator: The Rams flat out stunk last year, Jackson had 4 100 yard games and 7 double digit point games. NOT good enough for top 5 pick status. I don't see the rams getting any better this year. Bulger is out for multiple weeks with a broken pinky, and even when he gets back, there isn't a legitimate threat on that team to strech a defense. (yeah, Donny Avery really has teams shaking in their cleats). Without another threat on offense, Jackson will see 8 man front, after 8 man front.

B Jackal: He'll get a lot of red zone carries, but he won't stay healthy for 16 games. In his past two seasons, he's missed 9 games. Do you really want your 1st round pick out for 4-5 games this year? I'm not saying he won't have a solid year, likely he will, but I don't want to take a chance that big with my 1st round pick.

Old Man Westbrook: I'm pretty sure he helped write the ten commandments, he's that old.....or at least his body seems to feel that old. The addition of Mccoy, Vick (yes I said Vick, I'd add him to my Qb prefer list if I could) coupled with Maclin and Jackson, means less work for the aging Westbrook. He's an injury risk with a bunch of young talent around him.

As you can see from my three choices above, all of these guys will get drafted before pick 15 in all likelyhood. I'm not saying they shouldn't be...I'm just saying I won't.

A few other disfavorables:

Bush League: His offseason consisted of Micro-Fracture Knee surgery. Call that the equivalent of brain cancer in football career terms. His knee will never fully heal, and he will never be the same mediocre fantasy back he was. What? No, I'm not a doctor.... but I did work 4 years in my collegiate Athletic Training Department. Bush seems like a steal going at an avg of pick 65, and if you don't like the surroundings, by all means give Bush a shot but he doesn't start 12 games this year.

I'm not very high on Thomas Jones or Joseph Addai. Addai might be a buy low guy but both have additions of young and very talented backs. Jones is contending with Shonne Greene, a guy you'll find below, who is highly under-rated coming out of Iowa, watch for him to get a handful of goal line carries. Addai is teamed up with Donald Brown. A guy I am not super high on, but a very productive "do all" back out of the U....UCONN, baby.


Prefer:

CJ: I love CJ, he's a #5 pick in my book. Watch for increasing TD numbers, and 1500 rushing yards. A rookie last year, Johnson tallied four 100 yard games, and nine double digit point weeks. His explosiveness coupled with experience should help him increase numbers. I never said it, but the great Analyst/Therapist (analrapist) Tobias Funke once said that the greatest gains in a RB's career come between his rookie and sophomore seasons.

El Dee Tee: Don't let LT slip past you. Don't be worried by last year. LT will be LT this year. Sproles is going to play, but an LT nagged by injuries this year he will not be. He will not go softly into that great night. How do I know? Watch a few clips/highlights from his first preseason game (the first preseason game he's played in 4 seasons) he's not running out of bounds. He's hungry, and what my LT wants, my LT gets. Put him on the board.....Championship.

Port Gore: I lump these two together, Portis will get more carries, Gore will easily make up for that with receptions and receiving yards. Both of these guys will stay healthy (surprise) and both will have big years. Portis is simply consistent, and there isn't another real threat in his backfield to steal carries or TD's. RIP Sean Taylor. Gore will see a lot of action both in and out of the backfield. Defensive (read as Crazy) coach Singletary likes the kind of party where Gore gets 20 carries a game.

D. Will/Stew: I was solely high on Stewart, going avg pick 51, with nine double digit carry games last year, I saw Stewart as an emerging fantasy star. The guy can do it all, and he will for Caronlina again this year. The problem? I watched Williams carry the ball last night and realized that I have freakishly underestimated his speed/feet/vision. Last year in the first 8 games of the season Williams had 3 touchdowns....3....he scored 15 times between weeks 10-15. Ridiculous... But also freakisly unpredictable. Touchdowns cannot be predicted well, but Williams failed to have less than 10 carries in any game last year. This year I see Stewart getting his share of the load, meaning I'm not loving D. Will before pick 8 or 9, but I wouldn't let him outta the first round.

Grant: I like Grant in his second year as the real back in Green Bay. A full year removed from the Favre fiasco (guy ruins franchises better than any player in history). Grant will have his best year yet. Going at pick 37, I'm hoping he reaches the 4th round. If he does, he's my second fantasy back.


Mas Preferites:

Fast Willie
Ahmad Rashad Bradshaw
Lesean The Real
Bo Knowshon Moreno
Jamal Lewis... Wait, really?


All are going to have productive years. Parker is hugely undervalued, draft him. Bradshaw is going to get his carries, write it down. Mccoy is my #1 rookie back, he can do it all, loved him at Pitt. The problem is he's the "IT" back this year, more than anyone else. Don't reach for him, but if he's there in the 7-8th round area, I scoop him up. Knowshon is a talent, and I love talent. Jamel?..jam? Jamal? Ugliest pick here, he's not pretty, but the man will get his carries. I hate watching him run, but he's a great guy to have on your bench.

Promising

Shonn Greene is my pick for this years Steve Slaton. (honerable mention: Mccoy)

Allow Us to Redirect Your Attention


The Lolla Blog is finally up and running (slowly) at another URL. If you care to sample our crass musings inspired via the presence of a different form of entertainment, then we encourage you to take a look. Here's an excerpt:

Day 3...

The first song of the day: Oh, Canada

The large and proud canadian contingent spontaneously bursts into their homeland's anthem several minutes before the band takes the stage. I'm pretty much surrounded by singers. Not sure if they are all actually Canadian or if they're merely socialist sympathizers, but it is quite the rendition. My initial reaction is to be annoyed, but I am not even sure why. Maybe it's because I hate the Montreal Canadiens. When it's all said and done I applaud the effort, but still choose to conclude with the following sentiment:

"Nationalism is for queers."

Care to continue?

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Worst to First #28


The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.


b. Lee, grab that microphone.


Pirates of the Carribean



Because much like a Jerry Bruckheimer film, it might look sharp, but behind that sweet wardrobe ain't nothing but a shitty script and lots of bad news.

Is it possible to play football without a quarterback? Well, first-year coach Raheem Morris just might want to consider trying this out based on the current depth chart. Take a look!

  • Byron Leftwich; whose niether thrown for 3,000 yards nor had 15 touchdown passes in a season
  • Luke McCown; whose thrown more interceptions in his career than touchdowns
  • Josh Johnson; who has never taken an NFL snap.
  • Josh Freeman; big air quarterback out of Kansas State... Otherwise known as the unofficial Quarterback Factory of the NCAA.

Over the years, the Bucs have made a habit of plugging in the most readily available quarterback possible:

2007-2008: Jeff Garcia
2006: Bruce Gradkowski
2005: Chris Simms
2004: Brian Griese
2001-2003: Brad Johnson
2000: Shaun King

The list reads like a Who's Who of Who the fuck is that?

And since the Bucs have spent so much time being mediocre for the best past decade, they have never been in the appropriate position to either draft or trade for a prime-time quarterback. Even when the Bucs were making the playoffs, and (Jesus Christ) winning Super Bowls, they never did so with anything resembling a good quarterback. Which pretty much brings us up to speed.

The only problem now is that the Bucs don't quite have the dominant defense that they used to have. The once-phenomenal Derrick Brooks is gone. The once feared Tampa pass rush was reduced a pedestrian 29 sacks in 2008. And the run-stuffing rush defense of the good old Warren Sapp days have passed by judging by the 120 rushing yards allowed over the last year.

But the main reason the Bucs are rated so low this year is due to the manner in which they ended the season last year:

Opponents (Weeks 14-17, respectively): Panthers, Falcons, Chargers, Raiders

Avg. Points Allowed per game: 31
Avg. Rush Yards Allowed pg: 189 (Including a 299 yard game for the Panthers)
Avg. Pass Yards Allowed pg: 197
Avg. Total Yards Allowed pg: 387

Average result of each game: Loss
Average number of coaches quit upon: 1

And it's not as if the season were over heading into these last 4 games. There were 9-3 heading into week 14! And, well-positioned to make the playoffs. And granted, 3 of the losses came to playoff teams, but the Raiders? Really?

So fuck the Bucs. There's nothing worse than a team mailing in during any part of the season, let alone for several weeks. If the Gods are just, this team will not even get the opportunity to toy with their fans' emotions this year, and they'll pick right up where they left off... Losing.

And if they keep it up, maybe they'll be able to draft a decent quarterback. I've always said Sam Bradford would look good in pewter.


Pseudo-mnemonic Devices


Messages are always flooding my Inbox asking me what the "B" stands for in b. Lee.

Does it stand for "Brilliant"?

Beautiful?

How about "Bruce"?

And why is it lower-case?

Is that actually your name?

And who on earth would name their child "Deuce"?

Is it short for Deucebag?

Are you guys single?

The answer to all of these questions is an emphatic YES... Even if that doesn't even make sense for one or two of those questions.

But perhaps the most common question is, Are you guys hot? Because you sound hot (We apparently have a vast female readership).

To that question, I can only respond with another question;

Does this answer your question...



???

I thought so. Thanks for reading everyone!


Now, resume with the football onslaught!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Worst to First #29

The pre-season has begun and our collective semi-bone is creating a bulge that neither sandbags nor concrete dam could prevent from exploding in less than a month's time. With that said, allow us to stroke the fire, so to speak, and preview all 32 teams. Beginning with who we think will suck the most, and ending with who we think will suck the best.

Since b. Lee clearly has a hard-on for all things Missouri, he should be the one to step up.


The Chefs




And they're only called that because they be cookin' up some buuuull shit.

But when the Chiefs aren't busy being dunked on by Patrick Chewing, they're busy being passed and run on by just about every team in the National Football League. This awful defense has inspired Chiefs management to mine the LSU program in order to pick the best and brightest of defensive linemen in order to rebuild this godforsaken defense. Problem is defensive linemen generally take time to develop and mature, so don't expect much from Dorsey, Jackson, and company in 2009.

And while adding veteran depth to the roster is generally a good idea, it is a little too soon to tell how much of an impact Mikey Vrabel and Cat Scan Thomas are actually going to have when offensive lineman are having their way with a young frontline.

Guess it is up to the offense this year! But I wouldn't expect much from their end either. Although, with the landing of Matt Cassel, the return of Larry Johnson, and the curious addition of journeyman receiver Ashley Lelie the offense has definitely improved...

Just not enough.

While the Chiefs certainly did not have a good offense, it certainly was not terrible either. But, considering that they lost arguably their best receiver in Tony Gonzalez, Crazy Legs is going to be missing a seriously important safety valve. However, if D. Bowe can become the dominant receiver that he is expected to become, then maybe things are not as bad as they seem.

But, it is safe to say that the biggest offseason acquisition made by the Chiefs was luring former Pats guru Scott Pioli over to the West. Yet if your biggest acquisition will never actually step foot on the field, that's usually a bad sign (Note: coaches actually step on the field, so there's a difference). So, the good news is that down the road, the once proud Chiefs (insert paternalistic trope about the noble savage), could and should regain their scalping edge (Whoops). WAY down the road, that is.

And then, perhaps the best named stadium in all of sports will once again become a Hell Ride for visiting opponents, as opposed to the Fun House it has been for the last few years.

Allow Us to Redirect Your Attention


The Lolla Blog is finally up and running (slowly) at another URL. If you care to sample our crass musings inspired via the presence of a different form of entertainment, then we encourage you to take a look. Here's an excerpt:

Day 2...

Blissful awareness devolves into confused clumsiness. I'm dropping full beers, laughing at my own farts, and openly (and obliviously!) gawking at any woman that walks passed.

You know what this place needs more of? Nihilism.

Holy shit! Just in time, Tool shows up to grant my wish!

Care to Continue?

Peter King needs a cigarette and a sandwich...






"Brett Favre is a Viking and I want to kill someone."
- Le Ginge

(resident Purple People Eater)







Pending our BFF's ability to pee into a cup, complete 25 jumping jacks and turn his head from side-to-side, the Minnesota Vikings have a new, old quarterback. Oh, BFF you sly ol' fox; letting the whole universe believe you were officially gone for good, off to tend to the finely manicured fields and plains of the Mississippi Delta... Just to pull a rope-a-dope on us all. Absorbing blow after blow, jab after jab, just to bounce back off the ropes tossing haymakers-from-hell into double coverage.
Absence truly does make the heart grow fonder.

Oh yeah...and why don't you go ahead and literally FUCK YOUR OWN FACE.

Le Ginge Needs His Diaper Changed


Let the NFL onslaught continue!!!

Rejoice! Rejoice one and all!


Our BFF is officially a Viking.

Someone cue up Kool and the Gang. We got celebrating to do...



You guys wan' play wit me neh?

Oh, it is one fucking glorious day...