US Women eliminated from World Cup 2007

This morning in China, Brazil defeated the United States 4-0 in the semifinals, eliminating the United States women from the World Cup, ending their three-peat chances, and ending an impressive 51-game winning streak for the United States soccer team. Now, I'm not going to go ranting about the Women's World Cup because frankly, I don't know much about Women's soccer, well, even Men's soccer for that matter.

Why I posted this is because of our dominance over the last couple of decades in most sports is pretty much whittling away. Is it because of the rest of the world is getting better? Is it because the United States is getting worse? What's happening to the United States. In my opinion, it's a combination of both. Yes, the rest of the world has gotten better, and I'll give them their credit, but the United States, in most notably, basketball has shown a lack of desire. Now, team USA has shown a great improvement this year, as we all saw in the FIBA Americas in Las Vegas. They had a solid team coached by Mike Krzyzewski, and looked unbeatable. But, come on, let's get real. The Unites States is above and beyond anyone in the Americas. Argentina wasn't even playing some of their best talent (Ginobili, Nocioni, Delfino, and Oberto were not playing in the FIBAs this year.) and still got to the championship game vs the US. Europe is much better than the Americas and it's going to be a lot tougher in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China. Now I hope I'm proven wrong cause I want the United States to take home the Gold, but if they don't play like they did against Mexico, Canada, and others in the Americas, we'll be lucky to be third place...again.

Marion Wants Out of Arizona

It has been reported by numerous sources that Phoenix Suns forward Shawn Marion wants to be traded. Marion cites that a lack of willingness by the Suns to give him a contract extension is the main reason. So, where does the $16 million Marion go?

There are some trades that would be very complex, but there are trades that work out very well, but less than ideal for the Suns. Talks are that Marion could be traded one-for-one for unhappy Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko. The contract situation works out perfectly, but as any NBA team would be hesitant to do; trading in their own conference.

The other situation is the Los Angeles Lakers. Marion has already expressed to L.A. Times columnist JA Adande to be traded there. Lamar Odom is a possible trade scenario, though the Lakers would have to throw in another contract since Marion makes $3 million more. This would keep Marion happy, and I'm sure keep Kobe Bryant happy, at least for the time being, but again; trading in not only their own conference, but their own division. I think Odom would be the ideal choice for the Suns over AK47 because of style of play. Odom fits perfectly in that Suns offense and a tandem of Marion and Bryant sounds exciting for everyone in the "Lake Show" Let's see if Steve Kerr plugs the trigger and make some sort of trade happen.

(Photos by NBAE/Getty Images) © 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

Barry Bonds' Ball Branded

Well folks, looks like me and Mitch were correct. The public decided and the ball is rightfully so going to Cooperstown...but with an asterisk. Mitch and I both wanted and voted for the ball going to the Hall of Fame unblemished, but we did state on our inaugural podcast that we thought the people were going to vote for the ball going in, but they would vote for the "Brand It" option. And that's exactly what they did. The ball Marc Ekco purchased for $752,467 on September 15th was going to be decided in our hands and "Brand It" received 47% of the votes ("Bestow It" received 34%, and "Banish It"received 19%). I think this is truly unfortunate for the world of baseball. No matter if Barry "did" stuff, it's still a historic record, and should be treated as such.

(Photo by Winslow Townson.) © 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

09/25/07 Episode Canceled

It's our sad duty to report that the September 25th episode: Week 2 of Tuesday Sports Report has been canceled. Please stay tuned, however, as we bring you more episodes on future dates including next week, and you may even get a special episode later on this week. Sorry about the inconvenience.

NBA Headlines

Not too much news in the National Basketball Association, but there were some stories that needed to be told. Here they are...

"The Glove" No More?

39 year-old Gary Payton is contemplating retiring this week. News states that he's either going to make his decision this week whether to retire, or to play one final season. Possible destinations are the Golden State Warriors or returning to his roots and playing for the Sonics. I personally think that Payton should retire and get into color commentary or anything, but play. Payton has already won a ring with the Miami Heat. What more does he have to achieve? Payton has put in his time in this league already playing 17 seasons in the NBA. He's an Hall-of-Famer in my book and's got nothing left to prove. He's always been an entertaining person to watch play, and you just wait for him to get fouled so he could make that infamous face of his. Thanks, Payton for the time you've put in the league. You've been great for the NBA.
(Photo by Tom Hauck/NBAE via Getty Images) © 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

Seattle Sues Sonics?

The city of Seattle is considering suing their own ball team because they want to leave Seattle. The city wants to sue because they are not honoring their commitment to play all their home games through the 2010 season. This is ridiculous. Nobody up in Seattle goes to their games anyways. They want to move to a city that appreciates the sport. One like Oklahoma City, who hosted the New Orleans Hornets when Katrina came through Louisiana. OK has never been known for being a basketball town, but when the Hornets were forced to play there, Oklahoma showed that team love and rooted for them as hard as New Orleans fans did. If management wants to leave Seattle, I think they should be able to. Durant and Green deserved to be loved by a city, not just by 7,500 people a night.

Devin Harris a $42 Million Man

Harris, the 2004 1st round draft choice and 5th overall pick by the Dallas Mavericks signed a 5 year, $42 million agreement. Good for Harris. Harris has been outstanding for the Mavericks over the past couple of years, including career-highs in points (10.2 ppg) and assists (3.7 apg). Avery Johnson has a stud at guard for a long time to come.
© 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

A-rod an owner?

Story out of the New York Magazine reports that A-Rod will opt out of his contract with the Yankees and sign a contract with the Cubs. The contact also would include a stipulation making Rodriguez part owner of the Cubs.

This is unbelievable! I am completely against the idea of a player/owner. In fact, I'm completely against A-Rod opting out of his New York contract and going to South Chicago. This is the last thing Yankee fans wanna hear about during a playoff chase. The Yankees are only a game and a half back as of Sunday in the AL East. With A-Rod being a potential MVP candidate, New York was ready to love him; well, that is until he chokes in the playoffs again. Alex should just stick to playing ball and leave managing the Cubs to someone else. Maybe Mark Cuban???

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) © 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

Where to, Barry?

As I'm sure most of you have already heard, Barry Bonds will not be returning as a Giant next season. After spending 15 years in San Francisco, 1/3 of those years being named NL MVP (that means 5 years, in case some of you didn't know. Pretty sure the TSR audience are geniuses, though, so you do know.), the Giants won't be welcoming back the all-time home run leader*.

So what's next for Barry? Does he stay in the Bay Area and go to the Oakland A's, so he wouldn't have to play OF, or even just stay in California and venture down to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, of Orange County, of California, of the United States, of North America, of the Western Hemisphere, of the Earth, of the Milky Way, of the Universe??? Or dare I say does he join George Steinbrenner and those damn New York Yankees? Or does he call it a career? My personal thoughts are that Barry needs to go to the AL to be a DH cause there's no way he can play outfield for another season. I think Barry really wants to get those 3,000 hits and definitely a World Series ring. I think that we'll see Mr. Barry Bonds in pinstripes next season. Barry will be a Yankee.

But that's only where I think he'll end up. We wanna know what you think. Let us know what you're feeling and shoot us an email at tuesdaysportsreport@gmail.com

*This doesn't imply anything. I just didn't want to offend anyone, whether they're pro Barry or against Barry. Make up your own mind. This is just there not to offend anyone. ;-)

Fantasy NBA Rankings - - Power Forwards

Me and Harper are rotating off doing are Fantasy NBA rankings and I get to do the SGs and the PFs. So, I've already finished the Shooting Guards. Now it's time for the Power Forwards, so let's get to it.

1. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks
Last year's MVP definitely has something to prove after a lousy performance vs. the Warriors in the playoffs last year. I consider Dirk to put up the same type of numbers and to possibly contend again for the MVP.

2. Kevin Garnett, Boston Celtics
Mr. Double-Double. There's no doubt he takes a reduced role with guys like Allen and Pierce, but he'll still get looks on the inside and grab those boards as well. Who knows, he may end up with Center eligibility, which for you Fantasy owners, you know that's a great thing.

3. Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs
Coming off of an impressive championship run last year, the only thing that's keeping me from ranking him higher is the two above him. I think Duncan will have another stellar year, but Dirk and KG will have better.

4. Chris Bosh, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors were definitely the regular season surprise last year and Bosh was the main catalyst for the team. Bosh is going to getcha 8 + boards every night, and easy buckets. A fantasy stud. The only bad thing about Bosh is he only has PF eligibility.

5. Pau Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies
If Gasol can stay healthy this season, the Grizz has a shot to make it to the playoffs as they did previous to this prior season. Main reason is because Gasol was out and injured for the year. Now he's back and will again be the focal point to the struggling Grizzlies. I think he'll be a sleeper this year because of his injury. I promise you, get this guy as early as you can.

6. Carlos Boozer, Utah Jazz
Had an all-star year last year. Living in Utah, I got to see Boozer play quite a bit and he deserved it last year. Boozer is the type of player that will go to work for ya. He gets boards and is automatic inside 12 feet. Not a bad 3rd or 4th round pick.

7. Al Jefferson, Minnesota Timberwolves
Ahh...the new Garnett of the Target Center. Jefferson was one of those players that short-term, Celtics won't be kicking themselves, but give him a couple of years, and AJ is going to be an all-star. Probably didn't hear it here first, but at least you heard it here. The only thing he needs to work on is his mid-range shot, other than that, he's got it all.

8. Rasheed Wallace, Detroit Pistons
Sheed is the big man of the Pistons now. Last year, he proved he could lead that team and he got them to the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to King James and co. One of the better big man shooters, Wallace can also score inside, rebound, and occasionally block shots.

9. Mehmet Okur, Utah Jazz
The highest percentage 3 point shooter last year for the Jazz. Okur (right), or as Utahans say, "Money" deserved a reserve spot last year in the all-star game. The only thing about him last year was Mehmet in the playoffs. But that's okay, Fantasy only counts in the regular season, which he has excelled for the past 2 years.

10. Jermaine O'Neal, Indiana Pacers
O'Neal is one of the best Power Forwards in the league, but the injury bug seems to get him all the time. I'm expecting another one this season, as well. But if he stays healthy, he should be up there with the Gasol's and the Garnett's.

Fantasy NBA Rankings - - Shooting Guards

Me and Harper are rotating off doing are Fantasy NBA rankings and I get to do the SGs and the PFs. So, I'm starting out with the Shooting Guards.

1. Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers
Sure, Bryant may not be happy, but it won't stop him from being Kobe. Kobe will put up his normal numbers, which no doubt will make him the Top Shooting Guard.

2. Dwayne Wade, Miami Heat
Wade is back, and that's a great thing for Miami. With "Flash" leading the way for the Heat, they can get back to championship form this year. Wade gives you that Jason Kidd type play. Not as many assists, but he gives you the same qualities as a Kidd, and he's a better scorer.

3. Ray Allen, Boston Celtics
I honestly see the "Big Three" going to be able to work wonderfully for each other. I think Ray Allen is going to be the beneficiary of these trades. Allen is a threat from beyond the arc and is an underrated playmaker. We'll see him make some of those plays this year in Bean Town.

4. Vince Carter, New Jersey Nets
Carter has been improving in NJ for the last couple of years. He's played wonderfully last year and I expect the same from him this year. Carter can do everything. Score, shoot 3's, penetrate, rebound. He's a Top 15 pick overall this year.

5. Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers
AI is going to strive a full year without AI. One of my favorite players in the league. He reminds me of a Vince Carter. Iguodala needs to lead this team as he did last year. A legitimate threat to score anywhere on the court. He's no longer a sleeper pick, just a smart pick.

6. Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks
Smith (right) is a stat machine. He can score, rebound, pass, block, steal. A do-it-all kind of player. The Hawks have a gem in Smith and with Joe Johnson to pass to em, I expect a career year for Smith.

7. Paul Pierce, Boston Celtics
I think he'll be the third option now, but still get his normal numbers. Pierce is going to be the playmaker, though Garnett and Allen both are capable. Pierce is ecstatic that he has some talent around him this year.

8. Michael Redd, Milwaukee Bucks
Was one of the more impressive stars in the FIBA Americas tourney. Arguably, the best 3 point shooter in the Association. The best player on the Bucks need to step it up if they're going to do anything this year.

9. Jason Richardson, Charlotte Bobcats
Now in Charlotte, Richardson comes in as a great scorer, awesome playmaker, and instant offense for the young Bobcats.

10. Josh Howard, Dallas Mavericks
The most upside out of anybody in Dallas. When he scores 20 ppg, the Mavericks usually win. Wonder if Avery notices that trend and have the offense center around Howard. He's a quality player and a great option for your Fantasy team.

Oscar Pereiro is the winner of the 2006 Tour de France

Photo by The Sports Truth © 2007 The Sports Truth

What?!?! But that was last year. How could there be a winner announced this year? My friends, today, Floyd Landis (above), winner of the 2006 Tour de France, was found guilty and therefore had to forfeit his title. This proves that steroids are everywhere in the sports world. Cycling has become one of the sports where you think, "Hmm, is he using them?" just like baseball is, and already, becoming. I hope these athletes know what they doing to themselves and to the children that idolize them. Stop taking steroids and use the skills that you were born with and developed!

Kirilenko wants to use his "allowance" somewhere else

Yet again, the man who gets a free "allowance" from his wife; Utah Jazz Forward Andrei Kirilenko is crying. But this time instead of tears actually being shed he is just posting blogs in the russian language saying he wants out of Utah a.k.a. Jerry Sloan's nazi camp.

What Kirilenko doesn't realize is that he isn't the most attractive option for teams to get anymore. A few years back, this might of been bigger news but now it's an after-thought with how bad Kirilenko actually is. There were rumblings for awhile that the Jazz and Suns were trying to work out a trade sending Kirilenko to Phoenix and the Jazz would get Shawn Marion. It's no contest who would get the better end of that deal, the Jazz.

Now, teams know the Jazz are going to be shopping Kirilenko so the offering price is going to much lower. Then they won't be getting quality player to the level of "The Matrix" like the Jazz had the chance of getting. Don't plan on Kirilenko being done with the Jazz anytime soon. His contract is ridiculously high. It's max contract type of money so it will be hard for the Jazz to get rid of him. If in fact he does get shipped, plan on it being near the trade deadline this February. But until then, here in Salt Lake we will continue to hear more rants about the Russian czar and his tears being shed.

Potential suitors for Kirilenko
- Phoenix
- L.A. Lakers
- Sacramento
- Toronto

- Mitch Harper
Contact me at: mitchburgundy@hotmail.com

Fantasy NBA Rankings - - Point Guards

Came across the Yahoo! Fantasy Basketball rankings, and with the hoops season quickly approaching and this blog covering all aspects of sports we are now launching our NBA Previews. Starting with my Fantasy Point Guard rankings.

#1 Gilbert Arenas, Washington
"Hibachi" is going to have an outstanding year this season. Could be the leading scorer in the league at season's end. Arenas is an outstanding get because he can fill it up from beyond the arc. Arenas averaged nearly three 3-point makes per game in the season.

#2 Steve Nash, Phoenix
A guaranteed double-double every night in the Points and Assists categories, Nash is a candidate for MVP year in and year out. One of the few players who can dominate a game from the Point Guard spot.

#3 Chris Paul, New Orleans
Paul is going to be the workhorse for the Hornets yet again. One of the best in the league attacking the basket to get his points. His stats from his rookie to second season; expect more improvement this year.

#4 Jason Kidd, New Jersey
You know Kidd is a assist magician, but he fills up the stat sheet in other categories as well. Kidd had 8.2 rebounds, almost 2 steals, and 34% from the 3-Point line. One of the all-time greats at his position.

#5 Kirk Hinrich, Chicago
I expect a big season from Hinrich this year. The Bulls feel they are a championship contender this year and in order for them to achieve that, expect Hinrich to be more aggressive on the offensive end. Last year, Hinrich had a career-high 16.6 points per game.

#6 Baron Davis, Golden State
Was the catalyst in getting the Warriors to the playoffs last season. Davis had 20.1 ppg, his highest total in the past three years. Davis IF he is healthy is an outstanding pick, but he must stay healthy. Last year played in only 63 games which was one of his highest in recent years.

#7 Allen Iverson, Denver
Only had 24.8 ppg, once joining the Nuggets and Carmello Anthony in January. Iverson is always going to be sure-fire pick to get you points. Iverson can also be used at Shooting Guard in some leagues.

#8 Chauncey Billups, Detroit
Nothing flashy, Billups is just consistent. His stats last year slipped a bit in major categories but expect around 19 ppg, and 8 assists from Billups this season.

#9 Jason Terry, Dallas
Terry is a great 3-point shooter, shooting 44% last season. Has a knack for getting to the basket and making shots around the hoop.

#10 Deron Williams, Utah
A young player who looks to have a lot of upside. Really emerged last season during the Playoffs. Was the one bright spot for the Jazz in their beat down they took against the Spurs. Williams plays a lot of minutes in a game so expect production.

--Mitch Harper
Contact me at: mitchburgundy@hotmail.com

OJ released for $125K

OJ Simpson is released on bail

O.J was granted bail today for $125,000 after admitting to the charges against him. This is getting pretty silly right now. OJ is returning back home to Florida. Also revealed was the fact that OJ did not have a gun, but one of his partners did. More as the story develops, but this decision to release him on bail sure is a controversial one.

Tuesday Sports Report: Episode 1, 09/18/07

The inaugural episode of Tuesday Sports Report discusses Week 2 of the NFL, College AP Top 25 polls, and much more.

Duration: 1 hour, 28 minutes, 51 seconds

Click here to listen to the Tuesday Sports Report or Right Click, "Save Target As" to download and take this podcast on the go. Enjoy!!!

Pick'em Results

Join us here for pick'em results every week. We didn't get any feedback from viewers on this, but it's never too late to join.

As of Week 2:

Patrick - 10-9
Mitch - 9-10

Today's the Day!!!

Our first ever podcast will be released today at around 7 or 8 PM MST. Keep your ears open and enjoy the inaugural show of Tuesday Sports Report!

UPDATE: Sorry for the inconvenience folks. Our inaugural podcast went a little longer than expected so the file is quite large. We're working on getting it up. Believe me, it's great. Thanks for your patience.

NBA Headlines

It's a little early to be discussing the going-ons of the National Basketball Association, but there are some headlines so lets get to it.

Joey Crawford...reinstated.
I am so happy to hear this news. Joey Crawford is probably my second favorite referee in the NBA (behind Dick Bavetta). The little spat between him and Tim Duncan last year, I thought, was nothing too serious and a suspension of that magnitude was unjustifiable to me. I really didn't see the point to it, but you can believe me, Crawford won't be reffing any Spurs games in the near future. The NBA had a bigger scandal to deal with in the same department over the summer, however (the Tim Donahey situation). I think it was definitely the right thing to do by Commissioner Stern and the rest of the higher-ups in the NBA. Welcome back, Joey!
(Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE) © 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

Mutombo's last yearHouston Rockets Center Dikembe Mutombo told KRIV-TV in Houston that this will be his final year in the Association. Mutombo is 41 and I think it's time for him to go. Dikembe has always been a player that I enjoyed watching. His finger wag after a blocked shot has become a playground staple on the courts. Mutombo is a true humanitarian, doing his best to help the kids in America and back home in Africa. He's even received an award from President Bush for doing so. Even though Mutombo is not going to play ball after this season, I know that he will continue to give back to the community and continue to help those less fortunate. Thank you for your services in the NBA, Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo.

Nellie's still a Warrior
On Sunday, the Warriors and Don Nelson have made it official that Nelson will be coaching Golden State again next season. Terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed. This is great news for the Warriors. Nelson did a great job last season, getting the Warriors an 8 seed in the Western Conference, and then taking down league MVP Dirk Nowitzki and the Number 1 seeded Dallas Mavericks. They eventually fell to the Utah Jazz in the 2nd round, but it was such a great story. The Warriors traded away J-Rich in the off-season so I don't know how good they will be this year, but with Nelson still coaching, they may shock the basketball world...again.
(Photo by Jim Bryant) © 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

AP Top 25: Week 3

The Associated Press has released their Week 3 polls for College Football and here they are:

1. USC 2-0
2. LSU 3-0
3. Florida 3-0
4. Oklahoma 3-0
5. West Virginia 3-0
6. California 3-0
7. Texas 3-0
8. Ohio State 3-0
9. Wisconsin 3-0
10. Penn State 3-0
11. Rutgers 3-0
12. South Carolina 3-0
13. Oregon 3-0
14. Boston College 3-0
15. Clemson 3-0
16. Alabama 3-0
17. Virginia Tech 2-1
18. Louisville 2-1
19. Hawaii 3-0
20. Texas A&M 3-0
21. Kentucky 3-0
22. Georgia 2-1
23. South Florida 2-0
24. Nebraska 2-1
25. Missouri 3-0

UCLA, Georgia Tech, Arkansas, and Tennessee dropped out of the Top 25.

Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury win the WNBA Title

The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Detroit Shock in Game 5 of the WNBA Finals 108-92 to win the WNBA Championship. Diana Taurasi had 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. The biggest story of this game had to be Penny Taylor of the Mercury. Taylor had 30 points and was 18-18 from the charity stripe. Phoenix's Cappie Pondexter was named Finals MVP. This is the franchise's first WNBA Title. What a great series between the two teams going all the way to Game 5 with Phoenix pulling it out. Congratulations to the Phoenix Mercury.

Favre becomes winningest QB in NFL History

Brett Favre completed 29 of 38 passes for 286 yards. He also threw 3 touchdowns and only one pick en route to 35-13 victory over the New York Giants. It wasn't just any victory, though. The win this week gave Favre his 149th victory of his career, passing former Broncos Quarterback John Elway as the winningest Quarterback in the history of the National Football League. Favre quoted after the game, "Maybe someday down the road it will mean a lot," Expect Favre to carve his name into the history books again pretty soon, only needing 4 touchdown passes to break Dan Marino's record of 420. Congratulations Brett Lorenzo Favre for your historic milestone.
(Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images) © 1999-2007 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

College Football Roundup: The Irish and The Big Ten are horrible; USC is backing up my words

Is it just or is this season in College Football a crazy one? Nothing really is going according to plan except for the fact that USC is dominating everyone. But aside from that here are my thoughts and observations from Week 3 on the College Gridiron.


The Big Ten is terrible

Wisconsin was struggling with The Citadel on Saturday; The Citadel are from the same conference (The Southern Conference) so maybe they were riding off the Mountaineers Hot! Hot! Hot! momentum. But unlike the boys from Boone, North Carolina, The Citadel wore down in the Second Half and lost their key Cornerback to injury and P.J. Hill ran wild. Just wanna make note that The Big Ten, is the most overrated conference in America. I already covered this, that The Big Ten is a terrible league. Minnesota lost on the road to Sun Belt power (sarcasm) Florida Atlantic. The Owls just started playing football back in 2001. Bad bad loss. Northwestern lost to Duke at home, ending the Blue Devils 22-game losing streak.

Then out in Seattle, Washington had numerous opportunities to take control of their game against the Buckeyes. It's a lot closer than the score indicates. OSU QB Todd Boeckman threw two passes that should of been intercepted by Husky defenders. It was a case of playing with too much emotion in that game, from my observations. It was Ohio State's first trip out to the west coast since 2001 when they played UCLA in a 6-13 loss. Washington is back as a force in the College Football world; and I bet Tyrone Willingham is laughing seeing Notre Dame like they are. Jake Locker is the real deal this guy is going to be an outstanding player, he is better than Tim Tebow and I'm sayin that with a straight face it's the truth.

The best teams right now in Big Ten are Penn State, Ohio State, and Purdue; in that order.

Hey Charlie Weis aren't you an offensive juggernaut?

79 total yards, and it's against Michigan. That's sad. You look at Notre Dame's schedule and where do you honestly see them getting a win?

09/22 Mich St
09/29 at Purdue
10/06 at UCLA
10/13 #21 BC
10/20 #1 USC
11/03 Navy
11/10 Air Force
11/17 Duke
11/24 at Stanford

From looking at that I don't see a game on that schedule where Notre Dame is the favorite until they play Duke and then Stanford. Other than that the leprechauns should be underdogs. This team is terrible. Jimmy Clausen is going to be a good player but he has no Offensive Line to give him time and things are going to get ugly for him this season. I really find it hard to believe how far Notre Dame has fallen, where is Weis' recruiting? Irish have Weis signed till 2015 if I remember correctly. I highly doubt he lasts that long. I don't foresee this program being turned around Weis anytime soon.

Wacky games

- #11 UCLA goes to 0-2 Utah and gets waxed by 38. This coming after Corso and Herbstreit (who I hate) say that UCLA is the real deal and they definitely buy into UCLA's stock. If they had watched their game against BYU last week the Bruins were clearly out-played had it not been for mistakes by BYU the Cougars come away with that win in the Rose Bowl. This Bruins team is at best a 7-5 team. They lost to a Utah team who has lost their starting Quarterback (Brian Johnson), best Running Back (Matt Asiata), #1 Wide Receiver (Brent Casteel) all in the first two games. Yet the "high-powered" UCLA defense gives up 44 to them. UCLA is a fluke, and they are going to be destroyed at the Coliseum in December. 2005 (66-19, Trojans) Part II for the Bruins this year against the Trojans.

- Mississippi State defeats Auburn in Jordan-Hare. This marks two straight games that Auburn has lost at home. Quarterback Brandon Cox is struggling mightily and was benched for his two interceptions he threw in the game forcing Tuberville to bring in Freshman Kodi Burns. But it was case where Auburn is clearly the better team yet they had too many turnovers that they didn't deserve to win. Head Coach Sylvester Croom might of made a case for him to keep his job for yet another year and build some momentum in their program. Just as early as seven years ago, Mississippi State was a program in the Top 25 and a player in the SEC title game. This is a good start for their program to get back to that.

- Tulsa and BYU was a good 'ol fashion shootout. The two schools put up a total of 1,289 total yards. BYU had 694 of those yards in a losing effort falling to the Golden Hurricane, 55-47 at Tulsa who was unveiling their new Athletic Facilities. It was funny listening to Trev Alberts in this game as the color-commentator just thinking how the mighty have fallen. But I do miss Alberts at ESPN, he is definitely better and more unbiased than his replacement Lou Holtz. This is a school record for BYU for most yards in a game in a losing performance. BYU QB Max Hall is showing as a Sophomore that he is going to be yet another good Quarterback in BYU's outstanding Quarterback Factory. Tulsa had too much trickery and deep passes that BYU's defense couldn't stop, and the Golden Hurricane kept the Cougars guessing all night.

USC = DOMINANT

I really can't picture a program that is more dominant than the USC Trojans. I said a few days ago that USC is still the clear-cut #1 and they backed up my words tonight. Pete Carroll has established a program that never loses a beat. They lose talent and plug it in with young talented players who pick up where they predecessors left off. The Trojans were up in the 3rd Quarter by 32 in Lincoln! And to add that it was at night at Lincoln is even more impressive. USC is just unbeatable, I can't picture anyone beating them this season. I love what watching their team, they are a dynasty and Carroll has built it right. He just plays the best 11 out on the field. Doesn't matter what class they are in, he just puts the best talent out on the field and gives them a offense that is very crisp and precise. The Trojans are a sure bet to go to the BCS National Championship. And that's saying something considering the Pac-10 is the best conference in America this year. Sorry SEC, the Pac-10 is the best. The SEC needs to learn how to play offense before they can claim they are kings. With the exception of Florida who racked up 59 on Tennessee in The Swamp which was very impressive, but the rest of the SEC is a grind it out style of football that is just not that impressive. The Pac-10 is a league that is filled with very good teams. USC, Cal, Oregon, and Arizona State are the best teams in the Pac-10 this season.

C.J. Gable Photo Source: Kansas City Star

--Mitch Harper
Contact me at: mitchburgundy@hotmail.com

Matt Murphy Cashing In

August 7th, 2007 was a day that the baseball world would never forget. It was also a day that Matt Murphy would never forget. That was the day that Barry Bonds hit the Aaron-breaking homer that gave Bonds 756 homers. A historic ball. A record-breaking ball. A ball that landed in the stands into the hands of a Mets fan. Murphy came from the crowd covered in his own blood holding that ball. It was like getting all the numbers right on a lottery ticket. Today, Bonds' ball went for $752,467. Not bad for only paying $100 for the ticket itself. Now, this is nowhere near the amount that McGwire's ball sold for, reaching an estimated $3 Million. I wonder why? This'll definitely be a topic of discussion on the first episode of Tuesday Sports Report.

Patrick's Emmy Predictions

Tomorrow night is the 59th annual Primetime Emmy Awards! Like we say in our subtitle, "anything that tickles our fancy." Well, the Emmy's are tickling away at my fancy, wherever that is. So, let's get to it and give you my Emmy winner predictions!

(My winners are in bold)

[UPDATE] -- Actual Winners in Blue Bold

Outstanding Drama Series
Boston Legal
Grey's Anatomy
Heroes
House
The Sopranos

Outstanding Comedy Series
Entourage
The Office
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men
Ugly Betty

Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
The Amazing Race
American Idol
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway
Top Chef

Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series
Late Night With Conan O'Brien
Late Show With David Letterman
Real Time With Bill Maher
The Colbert Report
The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
James Gandolfini for playing Tony Soprano on The Sopranos
Hugh Laurie for playing Gregory House on House
Denis Leary for playing Tommy Gavin on Rescue Me
James Spader for playing Alan Shore on Boston Legal
Kiefer Sutherland for playing Jack Bauer on 24

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin for playing Jack Donaghy on 30 Rock
Steve Carell for playing Michael Scott on The Office
Ricky Gervais for playing Andy Millman on Extras
Tony Shalhoub for playing Adrian Monk on Monk
Charlie Sheen for playing Charlie Harper on Two and a Half Men

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Patricia Arquette for playing Alison Dubois on Medium
Minnie Driver for playing Dahlia Malloy on The Riches
Edie Falco for playing Carmela Soprano on The Sopranos
Sally Field for playing Nora Walker on Brothers & Sisters
Mariska Hargitay for playing Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Kyra Sedgwick for playing Brenda Leigh Johnson on The Closer

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
America Ferrera for playing Betty Suarez on Ugly Betty
Tina Fey for playing Liz Lemon on 30 Rock
Felicity Huffman for playing Lynette Scavo on Desperate Housewives
Julia Louis-Dreyfus for playing Christine Campbell on The New Adventures of Old Christine
Mary-Louise Parker for playing Nancy Botwin on Weeds

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Michael Emerson for playing Benjamin Linus on Lost
Michael Imperioli for playing Christopher Moltisanti on The Sopranos
T.R. Knight for playing George O'Malley on Grey's Anatomy
Masi Oka for playing Hiro Nakamura on Heroes
Terry O'Quinn for playing John Locke on Lost
William Shatner for playing Denny Crane on Boston Legal

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Jon Cryer for playing Alan Harper on Two and a Half Men
Kevin Dillon for playing Johnny Drama on Entourage
Neil Patrick Harris for playing Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother
Jeremy Piven for playing Ari Gold on Entourage
Rainn Wilson for playing Dwight Schrute on The Office

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Lorraine Bracco for playing Dr. Jennifer Melfi on The Sopranos
Rachel Griffiths for playing Sarah Whedon on Brothers & Sisters
Katherine Heigl for playing Izzie Stevens on Grey's Anatomy
Sandra Oh for playing Cristina Yang on Grey's Anatomy
Aida Turturro for playing Janice Soprano on The Sopranos
Chandra Wilson for playing Miranda Bailey on Grey's Anatomy

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Conchata Ferrell for playing Berta on Two and a Half Men
Jenna Fischer for playing Pam Beesly on The Office
Elizabeth Perkins for playing Celia Hodes on Weeds
Jaime Pressly for playing Joy Turner on My Name Is Earl
Holland Taylor for playing Evelyn Harper on Two and a Half Men
Vanessa Williams for playing Wilhelmina Slater on Ugly Betty

Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program
Tony Bennett for Tony Bennett: An American Classic
Stephen Colbert for The Colbert Report
Ellen DeGeneres for 79th Annual Academy Awards
David Letterman for Late Show With David Letterman
Jon Stewart for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series
Scott Ellis for 30 Rock (episode: "The Break Up")
Julian Farino for Entourage (episode: "One Day in the Valley")
Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant for Extras (episode: "Orlando Bloom")
Will Mackenzie for Scrubs (episode: "My Musical")
Ken Kwapis for The Office (episode: "Gay Witch Hunt")
Richard Shepard for Ugly Betty (episode: "Pilot")

Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series
Félix Enríquez Alcalá for Battlestar Galactica (episode: "Exodus, Part II")
Bill D'Elia for Boston Legal (episode: "Son of the Defender")
Peter Berg for Friday Night Lights (episode: "Pilot")
David Semel for Heroes (episode: "Genesis")
Jack Bender for Lost (episode: "Through the Looking Glass")
Thomas Schlamme for Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (episode: "Pilot")
Alan Taylor for The Sopranos (episode: "Kennedy and Heidi")

Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series
Robert Carlock for 30 Rock (episode: "Jack-tor")
Tina Fey for 30 Rock (episode: "Tracy Does Conan")
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant for Extras (episode: "Daniel Radcliffe")
Greg Daniels for The Office (episode: "Gay Witch Hunt")
Michael Schur for The Office (episode: "The Negotiation")

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series
Ronald D. Moore for Battlestar Galactica (episode: "Occupation/Precipice")
Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof for Lost (episode: "Through the Looking Glass")
David Chase and Matthew Weiner for The Sopranos (episode: "Kennedy and Heidi")
Terence Winter for The Sopranos (episode: "The Second Coming")
David Chase for The Sopranos (episode: "Made in America")

Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program
Late Night With Conan O'Brien
Late Show With David Letterman
Real Time With Bill Maher
The Colbert Report
The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Now, I hope I'm wrong with some of these picks cause I'm rooting real hard for anything Heroes and anything The Office to win. I doubt Heroes wins this year because of The Sopranos. Well, good luck to all who were nominated!

High School Football Notebook 9/15

This will be a weekly feature recapping some of the top news covering High School Football across the nation with reports on some of the top talent in the Class of 2008 recruiting and updates on America's best teams.

Terrelle Pryor shows off for the nation

The nation was able to see the nation's #1 prospect (Rivals.com) on Friday night as Pryor and his Jeannette Jayhawk (PA) squad face Yough HS (PA) on ESPNU, and it wasn't even a contest. On only the second play of the game Pryor had a 66-yard touchdown run. Pryor threw for 109 yards going 7-of-11 on passing, and 124 yards rushing. Pryor has received offers from the "Who's Who" in College Football. Pryor's most recent trip was to in-state school, Penn State. Jeannette defeated Yough 53-0.

#1 vs. #2 battle

If you haven't seen "Friday Night Lights" you need to. High School Football in Texas is notoriously known as king. Arguably bigger than College Football, other than the Longhorns. But tonight at 6 p.m. on ESPNU, #1 ranked school in America, Southlake Carroll takes on #2 ranked Miami Northwestern from Florida at SMU's Ford Stadium. This will probably be the first sell-out seen at SMU's Gerald Ford Stadium in years, and it won't even be the Mustangs; it will be a High School team. Miami Northwestern has fifteen legitimate D-1 (FBS?) recruits. This should be a fun game to DVR while watching USC @ Nebraska. A lot of recruiting coordinators will be attending this game, that's for sure.

Do the crime, serve the time?

In Flint, Michigan two High School football players were arrested in July for home invasion and were sentenced to 90-day sentences. But apparently the players are allowed to be released for school, practice, and even games.

What kind of standard does that set? How would the coach or anyone else in that school punish students and other athletes? They just point to this situation as an example and no punishment would really be valid. Were talkin home invasion and these guys are being allowed to play football. Ridiculous if you ask me. Mateen Cleaves, and Morris Peterson ought to be ashamed of their hometown that they made so famous during their hoops days at Michigan State. For what it's worth, Tyrone Ward one of the boys involved in the crime has already received an offer from the Washington Huskies; and that was back in August. Ward is a 6'4 202 pound Wide Receiver, and after reading those measurements I'm starting to get a better idea why he is being allowed to play. Hmmmmmm....

USA Today Super 25 results

Get rid of Kirk Herbstreit!!!

It's officially Saturday here in the Mountain Timezone so that means it is once again College Gameday! Which has made me wanna go on a bit of a rant. So here me out.

College Gameday has become a fixture on the College Football scene over the years. Every Saturday morning on ESPN it's a given I will be watching Gameday. I think every College Football fan does. It's like wheat on rice or whatever. But the show is getting stale and the main culprit who I can't stand is Kirk Herbstreit. Yeah he knows his stuff but he always is making excuses for the "big boys." Like for example when Appalachian State pulled off that upset over Michigan in Week 1 he was trying to make excuses that it was Michigan's fault and was trying to take away App. State's historic win. Buckeye Alumni eh?? Herbie your done to me. You are boring to listen to and you need to go! Lee Corso isn't much better but he puts on the mascot heads and he always waves around so he needs to stay. Then there is Chris Fowler who is professional in every sense of the word, and is awesome for that show. He is what really makes the show what it is.

ESPN as a whole is going downhill every year that goes by. The High-Definition programming is sweet but other than that ESPN focuses on everything BUT sports. That's the case with Gameday. They always wanna do these sentimental pieces about players and such. We don't wanna hear that! We want the show to be designed for the die-hard College Football fans not fans of "The View." "Herbie" do us all a favor and step down at the end of the season. Thank you!

The "Pacman" of yesteryear???

O.J. Simpson named a suspect in break-in involving sports memorabilia at Las Vegas casino

Is this really what O.J needs? Just yesterday, the Goldman family published a book entitled, If I Did It: The Confessions of a Killer. In the wake of this book coming out, being considered a suspect of stealing some memorabilia from the sports world, probably not the best PR for the 1968 Heisman Trophy Winner. I wonder if Pacman modeled his life after this guy. Probably not. I don't remember O.J winning any tag team title.

NFL: Week 2 Pick 'Em

TSR puts out our first set of NFL picks staring with Week 2. Patrick and Mitch will keep a running total of their picks to see who knows more and at season's end the winner will get....errr...ummm...we will figure that out soon. But anywho, here's Mitch and Patrick's Week 2 picks. Feel free to post your picks as well in the comments section and come back each week. We will keep a running total for those who participate as well to see how you stack up with our guru's.

Week 2 Games

Texans @ Panthers
Mitch: Patrick:

Browns @ Bengals
M: P:

Falcons @ Jaguars
M: P:

Packers @ Giants
M: P:

Bills @ Steelers
M: P:

49ers @ Rams
M: P:

Saints @ Buccaneers
M: P:

Colts @ Titans
M: P:

Seahawks @ Cardinals
M: P:

Vikings @ Lions
M: P:

Cowboys @ Dolphins
M: P:

Jets @ Ravens
M: P:

Chiefs @ Bears
M: P:

Raiders @ Broncos
M: P:

Chargers @ Patriots
M: P:

Monday Night game
Redskins @ Eagles
M: P:

Top Fantasy Performers

- Patrick's Top Performers
QB - Carson Palmer, Bengals
RB/WR/TE - Stephen Jackson, Rams
K/DEF - Nate Kaeding, Chargers

- Mitch's Top Performers
QB - Peyton Manning, Colts
RB/WR/TE - Santonio Holmes, Steelers
K/DEF - Cardinals Defense

Let the debating begin!