The most dangerous 8 seconds in sports

In an effort to expand out to other sports, and in an effort to put a music video on the blog so Emma will watch it, I recently watched an episode of ESPN's Outside the Lines that explored the danger of Bull Riding (The full video can be viewed here http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=espn:6628556)

Recently the danger of Bull Riding has come under increasing criticism including a recent study entitled "Bull riding most dangerous sport: study" (creative). The study was performed by Dale Butterwick of the University of Calgary's Faculty of Kinesiology. As part of his study Dale complied a Catastrophic Injury Registry, starting back in 2007. The study reports that Bull Riders suffered 49 catastrophic rodeo injuries between 1989 and 2009, including 21 fatalities, more than any other professional sport. So as the song goes, "Mama's don't let your boys grow up to be Cowboys."

In an effort to make a serious post a little lighter, I also recently came across a video that shows that riding animals can be dangerous, but you can also be very successful if you understand your abilities, and have a cool theme song. Enjoy the music video Emma (by the way if you are not familiar with Emma's blog you can view it at http://thelastmonsivais.blogspot.com/)

Unexpected Challenges

The Tour de France is one of the most well known cycling races in the world. The Tour typically has 21 days of racing and covers more than 2,000 miles. This year marked the 98th Tour de France and was made up of 21 stages and covered a total distance of 3,430.5 kilometres. Over 500 towns and villages have hosted the Tour (about 2,000 stages and prologues). More than 10,000 riders have taken their chance on the Tour and over 6,000 have completed the race. 250 different riders have worn the Yellow Jersey (overall leader at the end of each stage). Raymond Poulidor may not have won the Yellow Jersey, but he has stepped onto the podium more then any other rider (he finished 8 times in the Top 3). Of course the all time leader for Tour victories is Lance Armstrong with 7. All these riders know the dangers of riding shoulder to shoulder and within arms lengths of spectators, but I think the results of the Tour would be different if they threw a Red Hartebeest into the mix. Just ask Evan van der Spuy.



And you thought winning the Tour de France was difficult after cancer.

Some Women Consider Labor a Marathon

As a Medical Provider I am often asked about playing certain sports or continuing with exercise programs during pregnancy. My response is always the same, research has shown that most individuals can continue their same level of exercise during pregnancy, and deliver a healthy baby; however, you should not increase your level of physical activity after becoming pregnant, because your body will have a difficult time supporting your life style change and the development of another life form. I guess some ladies just take that advice and run with it, check it out.

http://espn.go.com/chicago/story/_/id/7084374/oh-baby-woman-runs-chicago-marathon-gives-birth

Now that's love for the sport, or just being a little crazy.

A little Soccer

Recently at work I had a conversation about Soccer being one of the most boring sports to watch. Previously I had thought the same about Soccer, but after having the opportunity to attend a World Cup preliminary game Uruguay vs. Argentina, and now that I watch Golf on TV, I have had a change in my way of thinking. Sure it is still not the most exciting sporting event, but when they score it makes it all worth the wait. Fans celebrate each goal like it might be the last, of course there is a good chance it might be, and since they have not really had anything to celebrate prior to the goal, they are just waiting for anything to cheer about.
I recently posted a funny soccer video with an amazing goal, if you have not seen it just scroll down further. Anyways this time I am posting an amazing soccer goal that I came across recently.



I also recently watched ESPN 30 for 30 special on the Columbia Soccer team, titled "The Two Escobars". So to counter the amazing goal seen in the first video, here is an amazing play by a goalie.

Josh Shows Off is Mad Dog skills

This Friday was Faffle Friday at our house, and to say the least it was sweet. Now many of you might be wondering what is Faffle Friday? Good question.

Anyways during Faffle Kaytlyn started talking about a recent video that she had seen about a sleep running dog. After viewing the video, multiple times, we thought it would be funny to have Josh reenact the video for us. So I know it is not sport related, but the first video is the original, and the second video is Josh's reenactment (I know the two may be hard to distinguish).

No Extra Bases for Style

Adrian Beltre joined an elite club this week by hitting three home runs in the Rangers 4-3 victory over the Rays. Beltre joins 5 other individuals: Babe Ruth performed the feat twice, once in Game 4 of the 1926 World Series and once in Game 4 of the 1928 World Series, Bob Robertson in 1971 NLCS, Reggie Jackson (MR. October) in Game 6 of the 1977 World Series, George Brett in 1978 ALCS, and Adam Kennedy in 2002 ALCS.

It would be hard to take the spotlight off of Beltre's performance, but one cameraman managed to do just that, even while Beltre was rounding bases.

Kicker queen

For all of you out there that have girls that you wish were active, but still lady like.

No child left behind

This shows the "No Child Left Behind Rule" at its best. 11 Year Old Benched For Scoring Too Many Touchdowns! I wonder what kind of rules they have for students that achieve too many A's in their class room studies.

Special thanks to Dad Monsivais for introducing me to this story.

Learning the Lesson behind the Humiliation

So many of you are already familiar with my displeasure in the BYU vs Utah game, after all I have had a number of post that have hinted at the fact that I was not very happy with the performance and effort given in the rivalry game. To be honest I felt the last post was going to be all I had to say on the matter, until yesterday.

Last night while playing a friendly game of cards at my in-laws home, an older neighbor, who is a dear family friend stopped by to say hello. The topic of BYU football came up, and of course the BYU vs Utah game was discussed. This older gentlemen, who is a BYU fan through and through, shinned a new light on the outcome of the game. He quickly chimed in "What was the final score of the BYU vs Utah game?" the sad reply was "54-10." He then asked for someone to pull out their scriptures and turn to Doctrine and Covenants Section 54 verse 10. Eager to see where this was headed I quickly found the passage on my phone and read "And again, be patient." That was it, it had to be, the hidden message behind the embarrassing loss at the hands of our most hated rivals.

How to make BYU look good

The College Football season is just getting warmed up, but for BYU fans it has already been a tough year to watch and continue to watch. Last week BYU suffered a humiliating defeat to rival Utah, 54-10 the worse loss in the rivalry since 1922 when the Cougars lost 49-0, of course this was the first season for the return of football at BYU (BYA had a football program from 1896-1903). Of course the most recent embarrassing loss that I can remember was the 0-3 victory Utah had over BYU in 2003, which ended BYU's NCAA-record streak of 361 consecutive games (spanning 33 years) without being shut out.
So to say the least it has been hard to make BYU look good this year. True they have had their moments, like Van Noy's sack, fumble, touchdown to lead the team to victory against Ole Miss in the season opener, but these plays have been far and few between. However this last week the University of Central Florida did their best to make BYU look good, or at least their special team play (still can't say much for the play calling, offense, and for the most part defense). Not only did UCF try their best to make BYU look good, but they also allowed the team to do something that has not been done in 13 years, that's longer then Emma has been alive, and long enough that most current BYU students probably couldn't remember. The last time BYU returned a Kickoff for a touchdown was when Mike Rigell raced 96 yards for a score against Hawaii in 1998, so in honor of this special occasion (and once again thanks to UCF who played awful coverage allowing for the truck size hole that led to the score) please enjoy Cody Hoffman's, ESPN "Top Ten Nominee," play of the game, kickoff return for a touchdown.

Own Goal

This was number one on ESPN "Not Top Plays" yesterday (For those wondering BYU's second play from scrimmage against Utah, the shot-gun snap over head and Heaps Fumble/Touchdown pass into his own endzone, was number 5). For those who missed, here is the special soccer play of the week for your viewing pleasure.

Failed TD celebration

This last week the NY Giant's faced off against the St. Louis Rams on Monday Night football. Both teams were 0-1 after the first week, and one team would leave the night with an 0-2 start, and a huge hole to climb back from for the remainder of the season. The Giants were victorious, the Rams are obviously missing their stud running back Stephen Jackson (who also currently stars in one of my favorite commercials right now), and Endzone bystanders developed a new fear of Michael Boley's TD celebration. Hopefully this is not a TD celebration that will catch on around the league.

Run away tire falls right into place

I was telling some of the followers about this video the other day, so I decided to post it on the site. Like this video the wheels have come off our blog site the past couple of months, but like the end of the video, we are back where we should be, and I promise some more post and videos on a more regular basis.

It's Over

Dear BYU,

Due to your most recent embarrassing beat down by rival Utah, my wife would like to express her gratitude for the extra attention that she will receive this College Football season.

Sincerely

Fan Dyed in blue, but difficult to watch the things that you do.

P.S. You may want to work on play calling skills, so next year you can put all that talent to use.

Let Me Hear You

A couple of questions for “Top Dog” Dave and the Shout-out followers, let me hear you.
Last week the NBA held their annual Draft, new location, but the same old Draft. This year’s Draft was repeatedly pronounced a weak Draft Class, and no big names were likely to come from this Draft, of course only time will tell. The biggest name in the Draft, or at least the most talked about Draftee was Brigham Young Universities very own Jimmer, who was selected 10th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, but the rights were traded to the Sacramento Kings. So with the Draft completed my two questions are as follows:

1: The 2011 Draft started out with Kyrie Irving going number one to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Derrick Williams going number two to the Timberwolves and Enes Kanter going third overall to the Utah Jazz. What do you think about the first 3 overall selections in the Draft? How would you have drafted differently and why?

2: Do you think Jimmer is a good fit with the Kings organization? Why?

Let Me Hear You. Got a question for us, throw it down in the comments, and we will give you a Shout-out.

VOTE! and give a Shout-out to Jimmer

Voting for 2011 ESPYS - Vote for Jimmer as the Best Male Collegiate Athlete of the year. Place your vote at http://espn.go.com/espys/#!/voting/
In order to vote for Jimmer you will have to scroll through the other categories, but don't give up, You Can Do it.

To help remind you of the Year that was Jimmer here are a couple of videos.

True Measure of a Champion Shout-out

In April I gave a Masters Shout-out that recognized the achievements of Charl Schwartzel in capturing the Masters Championship and the green jacket that accompanies such an honor. At the end of the Shout –out I gave a notable Shout-out to the young Rory McIlroy who had show cased his amazing talents through the first three rounds of the Masters, only to collapse in the final round, particularly on the final nine holes. As part of the notable Shout-out I made the comment “everyone seemed to indicate that this young man has a good head on his shoulders, and in his post round interview he mentioned learning from this experience and evaluating what he can take away to become a better player in the future.” Today marked to final round of the 111th U.S. Open Championship held at Congressional Country Club, an event that was dominated from start to finish by, you guessed it Rory McIlroy. The young man was not just victorious, but was spectacular in victory, setting or tying twelve Major Championship records that once seemed unreachable. Rory, now 22 years and 1 month is the youngest to win the U.S Open Championship since World War II, and the second youngest to win any Major Championship, only trailing Tiger Woods Masters win at age 21 years. Many of the records Rory passed or tied with his magnificent performance, once solely belong to Tiger, and like the young Tiger there was a sense of innocence and passion from the young Rory throughout the tournament and in post Championship interviews. Rory’s superb performance and eventual victory in the U.S Open Championship also marks the fourth straight Major Championship that Rory has been in contention, and in which he has lead at some point, if not for most of the tournament. As in all major sports Rory is quickly being touted as the “Next,” and in this case he is being crowned the “Next Tiger Woods.” The truth is that Rory my become the next superstar of Golf, but it is also important to note that “Next” should be applied to the” Next Generation” as a player in his 20’s has claimed the last 4 major titles, including a one, two finish today at the U.S. Open Championship with Rory age 22 years and Jason Day age 23 years (Not to mention that the last 5 Major Championships, dating back to Phil Mickelson’s 2010 Masters Victory, have been won by International players).

The true measure of a Champion is not how many victories you have, but the victories that come from your defeats. Rory you were gracious in defeat and humble in victory, and now you are the 2011 U.S. Open Champion, Congratulations.

Jake

Shout-out to Class

Recently the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Championship, beating the Miami Heat in six games. The Championship is the first for the franchise, and for a number of notable individuals: Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Jason Terry, and normally out spoken owner Mark Cuban (not to mention Rick Carlisle joins an elite club of 11 men, who have both played for, 1986 Celtics and Coached, 2011 Mavericks an NBA Championship team). I know everyone has his or her personal feelings about Dallas Maverick owner Mark Cuban. (Fun fact: Cuban purchased the Dallas Mavericks in 2000 from H. Ross Perot Jr. whose interest in the team was purely related to his desire of real estate surrounding the arena.) Cuban has been loud, obnoxious, and at times out right defiant in his method of ownership. Although Cuban’s style may be unconventional, no one can question his passion for the game and his team. Cuban attends most of his team’s games, home and away, his player’s locker room is the ultimate kids room/comfort lounge, and Cuban annually increases the NBA’s revenue due to his comments or actions.

Personally I am a fan of Cuban’s style as an owner, team first approach and passion for the game, something the Dodgers could have used over the past couple years. Although I like the guy, normally Cuban’s actions can’t be described as Classy, but in the recent celebration following the Mavericks game six victory to clinch the title Cuban requested the David Stern present the Larry O’Brien Trophy to Don Carter the original owner and the individual responsible for bringing NBA basketball to Dallas in 1980. Of course Cuban followed this class act by later declaring, "Rings are old school, Rings are done. It's time to take it to the next level and do something different." Oh well, he was a classy guy for a night.

On the flip side of class we have another connection to the Champion Dallas Mavericks, DeShawn Stevenson. Following the game six victory to clinic the Championship, DeShawn decided to make comments directed toward the Miami Heat, specifically Wade and James. DeShwan said, "The way they act, the way they treated Dirk [Nowitzki], all the things that they said were very classless. To win on the court the way we did it, it was wonderful." You can read the story at http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nba/news/story?id=6657084. DeShawn recently backed up his comment by being arrested on Tuesday June 14, for public intoxication (http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nba/news/story?id=6664021), NICE.

Whatever happened to the good old days where you backed up your statement by “NOT” doing something stupid? Jalen Rose look what you have taught the younger generation.

Jake

Tricky Tricky

I realize that we have been slightly M.I.A for the last couple of weeks. I hope this post helps make up for it. I especially had Kaytlyn in mind when I created this post. I plan to have very little reading and hopefully entertaining videos!

The last few weeks have produced some pretty clever trick plays in various sports. I realize that there have been tons of trick plays worthy to be included in this post. I'll tell you straight up that Boise State will not have a presence in this post. I've included 2 recent trick plays and a classic.

This first one is awesome because it tricks everyone including the camera man! They obviously score on the play but it wasn't the game winner.


I think this second one is better than the first because a couple players had to completely sacrifice their dignity for the cause! Well played.


This "oldie but goodie" play has become legendary. This wins my vote for the best because One player completely sacrificed is dignity for the win! and it worked!


Big SHOUT-OUT to misdirection! Leave a comment and tell me which play is your favorite!

-Dave

Goodbye

In honor of the Mavs sweep over the Lakers in the NBA Playoffs.
This is the adjusted text form one of my favorite children’s books,
"Goodnight Moon"

Goodbye Lakers

Hello Broom
Hello gloom
Goodbye L.A. city in gloom
Goodbye Coach
Who won the most
Goodbye Bynum
Goodbye Odom
Goodbye Artest
With flagrant fouls, looking so depressed
Goodbye Western champs
And goodbye NBA finals dance
Goodbye Jack Nicholson
And goodbye Khloe Kardashian
Goodbye Purple
And goodbye yellow
Goodbye Kobe
Goodbye clutch shots
And goodbye we can still win “This”
crazy thoughts
Goodnight stars
Goodnight air
Goodbye Lakers fans everywhere

Jake

Commercial Shout-out

After my last post, about the poor choices made in the NFL draft, I couldn't help but give a Shout-out to my favorite commercial on T.V. right now, being picked first is not always the best thing. Since most people now have the technology to record their shows and fast forward through the commercials this may be a new one for some of you.

A Stretch at 8

Okay so the NFL draft was a week ago and I am just barely giving you my thoughts, I have had a busy week at work, not to mention I had to squeeze in a round of 18 on the course yesterday.

So here it is, with the 8th overall pick in the NFL draft the Tennessee Titans select the overrated and yet to live up to the hype quarterback out of Washington University, Jake Locker. Mr. Jake Locker busted on to the college football landscape as a freshman when he threw for 2062 yards and 14 touchdowns (15 INT), and rushed for an additional 986 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning freshman All-American and PAC-10 freshman of the year honors. Locker gave the University hope for the future, even after the team finished the 2007 season with a 4-9 overall record (only 2-7 in the conference). The following season (2008) Locker only played in 4 games before being sidelined due to a broken thumb, Washington finished the season 0-12, including the 4 games Locker started. Steve Sarkisian (former BYU player, believe me this post could have been littered with reference to BYU) took over as head coach of the Washington football program in 2009, and many felt with a healthy Locker the program would do well. Locker had his best passing season with a QB rating of 129.7, which was helped by throwing for 2800 yards, 21 touchdowns (11 INT) and running for 7 more: however, the team finished the season with an overall record of 5-7. Many thought Locker would jump to the NFL after his junior season, but Locker stayed and became a pre-season Heisman Trophy favorite. In 2010 the Washington Huskies finished the season 7-6, and Locker saw his numbers drop from his 2009 performance (2265 17 TD, 9 INT), and Locker fell out of Heisman Trophy talks after his first game of the season.

Don’t get me wrong, Locker has the 6’3 frame and is a tremendous athlete (in addition to being an NFL quarterback, Locker was also considered a top baseball prospect in 2008 when he played outfield for the Bellingham Bells of the West Coast Collegiate Baseball League), but deserving of an 8th overall pick in the draft, and for a franchise that has recently been through the failure known as Vince Young, I am not sure Locker was the right choice. I wish the kid the best in his professional career, and one can hope that he will blossom in the NFL.

I also feel that by taking Locker at 8 the Titans initiated the selection of other quarterbacks in the first round who should have been selected in the second or third round.

Dear Mr. Locker maybe you and Tony Romo can hang out! (see "Not so Elite Royalty" April post)

Jake

In light of recent events...

I just thought I would take a moment to give a heart felt shout out to the men and women of the military and special forces. There are so many who have sacrificed so much to keep the USA safe and free. Big shout out to those that serve and those that have served!

Special shout out to the elite group that carried out the order to go into Pakistan, into an enemy compound, and take down the most wanted man in the world. In my mind I imagine that this team consisted of the following: Jack Bauer, Jason Bourne, and Mr. T. And I'm sure that the helicopters were piloted by Goose and Maverick. Well done boys.

All in all, is it any wonder that in a year where there were so many spectacular moments......Osama, you just got Jimmered!

Shout-out to a Silent Follower

This Shout-out is to Erin Lock’s Mom (Erin is a co-worker of mine). Why does a lady whose name I don’t even know and whom has yet to officially follow the blog deserve a post dedicated to her? Erin’s Mom lives in Virginia, but lived in Colorado during Erin’s childhood, and for some reason became a loyal Colorado State Rams fan. Unfortunately for Erin and her Mom Colorado State just happen to play in the same conference as BYU this past season. As a friendly gesture I invited Erin over to our home to watch the Colorado State vs. BYU basketball game this year. To my surprise Erin showed up decked out in her Colorado State gear (surprising part was I didn’t know such gear existed), including her lucky Cam the Ram doll. Erin’s dress was matched by my BYU ensemble from head to toes, including blue shoes, blue and white terrible towels, and a blue and white Sombrero. Prior to the game Erin received a random phone call from her mother, following Erin’s explanation about her where about and reason, Erin’s Mom started to trash talk me from a couple of States away and over the phone. This wonderful, kind lady (assumption only, because I have never met her) had no fear in letting me know her passion for Colorado State, and her dislike for any team standing in opposition. The impression left on my mind was, poor, misguided soul, but any person in her position willing to go toe to toe with me deserves a post dedicated to her. Erin’s Mom this is your post, and I hope you will officially follow our blog, and encourage many more to join.

I know Erin and her Mom are big Chauncey Bilups fans, and I wanted to give a Shout-out to the New York Knicks who announced they would keep Chauncey with the team instead of buying him out as originally planned. Chauncey is a Colorado native and a former NBA finals MVP with the Detroit Pistons. After Chauncey was traded to New York earlier this season, he showed his ability to continue to hit the big shots when he hit a late game shot to beat the Miami Heat just 4 days after the trade. When the trade for Carmelo and Chauncey was made I told Dave “Top Dog” that Chauncey was the key piece in the deal, and the individual that would make the Knicks a Championship contender.

I have to include a CSU Shout-out since that is how this post came to be. I would like to give Coach Miles credit for his management of the CSU basketball team. Tim Miles has proven to be a winner with every program he has had the opportunity to coach. Tim Miles has an overall coaching record of 248-193, which includes North Dakota States transition years to Division I basketball, and shockers against #8 Marquette (2007) and #12 Wisconsin (2006). Coach Miles has been known as a Fan’s coach, and the story is told when invited by BYU students to a party this last season, Miles accepted and showed up.
Steve Fairchild (CSU Football Coach) is also making news as a Fan’s coach. Coach Fairchild has recently offered up a challenge to the CSU student body. Coach Fairchild is offering an honorary team membership to any student who can beat his 3 fastest players in a single race. Details of the challenge can be viewed at http://www.csurams.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042511aaa.html. Anyone wanting to participate should clearly read the clarification in the article, “To be clear, this is not an official tryout for the team. The winner will not wear pads during the week or at the game, or participate in any practice drills. The prize is only an honorary roster spot for that week, and does not count toward the number allowed by the NCAA.”

So this Shout-out is to you Erin’s Mom and CSU (I can say this now that BYU and CSU are in different conferences).

Jake

The future here in Provo?

There have been a number of these "trick shot" videos that have gone viral over the last few months. I gotta give this kid his own shout out! He is in middle school, at Dixon here in Provo and he seems to be well on his way to great things.



Somebody offer this kid a scholarship before Lane Kiffin does!

-Dave

Combo Shout-out

The first Shout-out is to Mama Monsivais who is celebrating the completion of another year of experience.  With sixteen kids she has proven that she can hang with the best of mothers.  And I know that she would be embarrassed with me sharing this, but with sixteen kids it would be tough to have a favorite, luckily I am number three of sixteen, and made her pick for favorite easy, so from your favorite, Happy Birthday Shout-out to Mama Monsivais.

The second Shout-out in the combo goes to the BYU basketball team, with breaking news indicating that Brandon Davies is working towards readmission to the university in the fall semester, and all indications that Davies will be a member of the 2011-12 BYU basketball team.  The breaking news on Davies return was one of the top stories on SportsCenter this afternoon, and was one of the Headline stories on ESPN.com, indicating that BYU continues to be relevant.  Another indication that BYU is relevant to the sporting world was evident in the ESPN article “Top Sports Telecast on Cable” (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/thelife/news/story?id=6397850).  The article reported the most watched sporting event for the time period of Feb. 28 – March 27, 2011, with a total number of 5,261,344 viewers, was the BYU-Florida NCAA Tournament game on March 24.  So here is a True Blue Honor Code and All Shout-out to BYU and Brandon Davies.  

Here is a shout out to Major League Baseball for taking control of the Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball program, while the owners try to figure out who is the real owner, how much they own, and where all the money has gone.  The Dodgers are one of the most storied programs in baseball; however, with the recent beating of the Giant fan at Dodger Stadium, the owner’s messy divorce, and financial woes of the team being publicized, Major League Baseball did the right thing by stepping in before the team was a complete loss.  That deserves a Stepping in before the Dodgers became as relevant as the Expos Shout–out to Major League Baseball.

My last Shout-out in this combo goes to a sporting activity that I never thought I would give a Shout-out for, Dance.  I recently was shown a video by wife in which 4 individuals are dancing away to some video game.  I could not help but laugh, and watch the video multiple times.  This video was posted on Facebook by one of the followers of this blog, since I do not have access to the video I would like to have the follower who posted the video on Facebook post the video below in the comments, so all the followers can join in my Shout-out for the wonder of Dance.  This video earns my Lord of the Dance, Quality video, and Joshua what were you doing Shout-out.

Jake

Response to Kaytlyn Question

Kaytlyn,

In regards to your question from the "First Positive Shout-out" article, "Do you think we have a chance to do any where near as well as this year?" my answer is YES (of course this could be partially to my eternal optimism, especially when discussing BYU sports).  I understand the concern for many BYU fans, and the excitement of BYU haters for next years basketball season.  The BYU basketball team lost the best backcourt duo in school history (and arguably the best backcourt duo in the nation the last two season) to graduation.  Jimmer rocked the college basketball landscape this last season and drew attention from every direction, including a clean sweep of the Player of the Year awards.  Jackson Emery quietly went about his blue-collar work while setting the all time steals record at BYU, and being the Robin to Jimmer’s Batman.  I do not anticipate that these two individuals will be easily replaced, but I do believe that BYU will be a solid and deeper team.  Of course I also have to mention the loss of Kyle Collinsworth to a Church Mission.

When discussing supporting facts for why I believe that BYU will do just as well next year, if not better, we have to keep in mind that the BYU basketball roster is far from being finalized for next season.  Brandon Davies has still not been cleared by the University for eligibility next season, Dave “Top Dog” just broke the news to me today that James Anderson has decided to forgo his final year of eligibility, a point guard transfer from UCLA will not be available to play until the Winter Semester next year (due to transfer rules), and a couple of Freshman and Blue shirt Freshman (normally called Red shirt, but we don’t like the color red) will play important parts in next years team. Three new comers to the team in 2011 are 6’-10”, which means the team next year will have more depth at the big man spot, allowing for improved match ups on defense, and better inside out play on offense (which hurt us at the end of last season).  Depending on the return of Brandon Davies to the squad, BYU has a solid player from last year’s starting line up, or an individual who played significant minutes at each position except for at point guard. Charles Abouo would be able to take over at the 2 guard or the small forward position, while I believe that Stephen Rogers showed signs of promise, and could potentially step in at the small forward position, allowing Abouo to play the 2 guard.  Noah would continue to play the power forward position and Davies would stay at the center position.   Of course a few of the new comers have the potential to shake up the starting line, but I believe if we could find a solid player at the point, BYU could walk away with its first WCC Championship, and make another run in the tournament.

Great Question (mostly because it was about BYU)

Jake

Shout-Out with a Foot in Your Mouth

Professional athletes are fiercely competitive.  Being the best, at whatever they do, is what drives them from day to day.  That being said, it is obvious that many professional athletes think extremely highly of themselves and they can't help but run their mouths.  I've narrowed down the past few weeks to my top 3 athletes who probably should have thought twice!  In no particular order:

Adrian Peterson:  The NFL players association and the owners were not able to come to an agreement on how to split the Billions of dollars of revenue that the NFL produces(they ignored my proposal to donate it to my "Monsivais in need program").  Sounds like a "problem" that to most of us seems like, regardless of the outcome, everyone stands to make a big payday.  After one particular day of failed negotiations, Peterson had this to say;

"It's modern-day slavery, you know? People kind of laugh at that, but there are people working at regular jobs who get treated the same way, too. With all the money," Peterson continued. "The owners are trying to get a different percentage, and bring in more money."
Yo, A.P. are you kidding me?  You signed a contract last year to make $17 million dollars a year.  The minimum salary for a rookie is $325 thousand dollars a year, and the minimum increases incrementally each year your in the league up to ten years.  If your a single person living in the lower 48 states, the poverty line is $10,890!  Your salary is a far cry from slavery.......and don't act like you have a "regular job."


Jalen Rose: ESPN has begun the 30 for 30 documentary series, of which I am a fan.  This series highlights various sports related events, people, teams, and other related sports stories over the years.  Recently released was a 30 for 30 highlighting the much hyped "Fab Five" of Michigan University.  The Fab Five was considered to be one of the best recruited college basketball classes ever.  This particular episode was partially produced by former Fab Five member, and current ESPN analyst Jalen Rose.  In the documentary Jalen expressed some very candid opinions about that time in the college basketball landscape.  Included in his remarks were some controversial comments about Duke University and the Black student athletes that attend there, calling them "Uncle Toms".  Jalen made the claim that Duke wouldn't recruit a "guy like him."  Upon the airing of the documentary Jalen came under intense scrutiny but stood by his comments.  He then proceeded to back up his comments by........BEING ARRESTED ON SUSPICION OF DUI!  Big shout-out to you Jalen, use your one call more wisely.


Albert Pujols: Compared to the others I think Albert will get off easy.  He is one that you just gotta roll your eyes at.  This last off season of baseball, nobody drew more attention to their looming free agency than Albert Pujols.  He is looking to sign a deal that would pay him $300 million dollars over the next 10 years and he wasn't budging. Can you blame him?  He is arguably the best player in the game over the last few seasons; a solid first baseman and a terror for pitchers when he is at the plate.  The negotiations between Pujols and his current team, the St. Louis Cardinals, ended in a stale mate by the time the season started.  Through the first 11 games of the season Pujols seems to have stuck his foot, or rather his bat, in his mouth.  Pujols is batting a microscopic .150 with 4 RBI's and only 1 home-run.  Way to back up your demands $30 million dollar man!


Dave "top dog"

Dave, I would salute your picks for this article, but I feel that you have left out to notable mentions from this past week (maybe due to your personal man crush for these individuals).  Kobe Bryant was recently fined $100,000 by the league for his use of a gay slur towards the referee after being given a technical foul during his game last Tuesday.  Just as inappropriate as the use of the gay slur was the way Kobe punched the chair (along with teammate) and threw his childish fit when he was pulled from the game, and prior to his "potty mouth" moment.  I also liked the part when Steve Kerr, who was an analyst on the TNT crew that night, said "You might wanna take the cameras off of him right now, for the children watching from home."  The technical fouls are no surprise, after all Kobe has been ranked in the top 10 for technical fouls in the league over the past 6 years, and actually lead the league in technical fouls in 2007-2008 season (he is currently second in the league this year with 16).  I guess Kobe had been able to keep his rants and remarks towards the referees in check over his illustrious technical ridden career, or they had never been caught on camera like this before.

The second possible candidate for this category would be Barry “Home Run King” Bonds who was convicted this week for 1 count of Obstruction of Justice, and narrowly escaped 3 other possible convictions connected to his testimony before congress concerning his use of steroids during his playing career.   

Also a quick note on Albert (since he is from the local team for me now), Albert has previously had a slow start to his season, and bounced back by the end of the season.  In the 2007 Albert was only batting .158 at this point in the season,  and finished the season batting .327.  True this season is a little different, being a contract year, but I am not bashing on him yet; however, I do agree that he looks bad with his slow start after the contract issues of the off season.

No Adrian and Jalen I have no excuse for.

Jake

 

Shout-out of Congratulations

UNLV has just announced that they have offered their open coaching position to Dave Rice, and that Rice has accepted the offer.  An official news conference is to be held on Monday to announce Rice as the new Head Basketball Coach at UNLV.  Coach Rice who played at UNLV during their “Glory Years,” or at least during the period of time in which UNLV won a national championship and was not under NCAA investigation or sanctions, will return to his Alma Mater where he has previously served as an assistant coach.  Since 2005 Dave Rice has been with the BYU basketball program as an Assistant and Associate Coach.  Coach Rice has been an instrumental part of BYU’s program success over Coach Dave Rose’s tenure at the University, and in recruiting talented young men into the program, including young men from the Las Vegas area.  Dave Rice probably shared the excitement of the BYU basketball program's anticipated move to the WCC, but now is probably even more excited about BYU’s departure from the MWC, seeing how he will be remaining in the conference with his new team.   
Dave Rice we appreciate your part in the success of the BYU basketball program over recent years, congratulate you on your new position, and wish you the best of luck.

With Appreciation

Jake

Masters Shout-out

I know it is difficult for many to get excited about Golf on television (including many followers of this blog), but the Masters wrapped up this afternoon in true Masters fashion.  Only one of the few times when the eventual Masters Champ did not come from the final pairing, the Masters remained an open race to almost ten players on the last day.  At one point in time during the final round six players had a share of the lead, and seven different players lead the masters at some point during the final round, including Tiger Woods, who seemingly found his “Masters Touch” on the front nine when he birdied four holes, eagled another, and only had one bogey to claim a share of the lead heading into the back nine.  Of course Tiger (who remained at ten under for the tournament) and others slowed on the back nine, and eventually fell short to the 2011 Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel.  Charl, who is from South Africa, a seemingly unknown to most of the common Golf watchers, has apparently underachieved for many years and has been touted as a talent to watch by professional golfers in the past.  Congratulations to Charl who birdie the last four holes in the tournament to walk away with the Championship, that just so happen to fall on the 50^th Anniversary (to the day) that Gary Player (also from South Africa) became the first international player to win a Green Jacket.

Notable Shout-out to the young Rory McIlroy from Norther Ireland, only 21 years of age, who lead the Masters through the first three rounds, and entered Sunday's final round with a four stroke lead.  Rory continued to lead or Co-lead the Masters through his 63rd hole, before he had an epic collapse, finishing with a final round score of 80.  Rory, who seemed to make no mistakes in the first three rounds, must have saved all of his miscues for the final day, and finished ten strokes behind the eventual Champion.  Watching Rory’s collapse was at time difficult to watch and heart breaking, but everything and everyone seemed to indicate that this young man has a good head on his shoulders, and in his post round interview he mentioned learning from this experience and evaluating what he can take away to become a better player in the future.

If you missed it, there is always next years Masters

Jake

Not so Elite Royalty

The NFL continues in their Lock Out struggle that is strangely reminiscent of a 5^th grade election battle, with both sides unwilling to accommodate the demands of the other, and with little movement in comparison to the television coverage and whining that is taking place.  Although a lengthy discussion, bashing, or roasting could be had on the Lock Out its self, I feel that this discussion already receives too much time, and frankly I don’t think I want to spend any additional time thinking on the topic.

Even in the NFL’s current Lock Out state the NFL draft will still take place, which means that ESPN will continue with their traditional “On the Clock” teams drafting needs evaluation.  Last night prior to the Friday night chick flick with my wife, I watched the “Dallas Cowboys: On the Clock “ discussion (http://search.espn.go.com/on-the-clock:-cowboys/videos/6). 

In the evaluation of the Cowboys team needs Trent Dilfer shares with the television viewers his “man-crush” of Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo.  Trent Dilfer states that he feels like Romo is one of the best Quarterbacks in the league, and that he was off to a good start last year prior to his season ending clavicle fracture.  Of course Trent Dilfer’s praise of Romo comes directly after the opening comments and report on the Cowboys 2010 season, which includes their 1 win in the first 5 games which Romo started at the Quarterback position.  Granted I can’t blame Romo solely for the loses, but can you really make the statement that Romo was off to a good start when he only had one win in the five games that he started and finished? 

No disrespect to Tony Romo, but I believe he is one of the most overhyped and credited Quarterbacks, maybe even player altogether in the league.  To often I hear Romo grouped in the category of Elite Quarterbacks, along with the likes of Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and even Ben Roethlisberger (Not my favorite, but the young man does have two Super Bowl rings, and thus qualifies).  On paper Romo appears to be a legitimate regular season Quarterback, posting a career QB rating of 95.5 with a career pass completion percentage of 64.1.  Although Romo has impressive career statistics rivaling those of Peyton Manning’s non-MVP years, he does not have the history of being a champion or the track record of even being a winner.  Case in point, since taking over as the Cowboys starting Quarterback Romo only has a 57% regular season winning record in games that he starts, and has only won one playoff game in four tries.  Meanwhile the Cowboys as a team have not made it further then the Division Championship game (2009), while only making brief wild card visits two seasons (2006, 2007) and failing to make the playoffs in 2008.
 

Tony Romo busted onto the scene in 2006 when he showed up from seemingly nowhere (Eastern Illinois University, pretty close to nowhere) and took over the reigns of “America’s Team” (an issue in and of its self) and led them to a playoff appearance.  Since that time I feel as though his fame and glory have ridden on the wings of a fumbled extra point snap that turned into an awkward and futile 2-point conversion run and a romantic escapade with a pop culture celebrity.

I believe that Tony Romo is a talented Quarterback and athlete (he has an impressive golf game); however, I don’t believe that he is one of the elite quarterbacks in the league, yet he is given the royalty and attention that accompanies Quarterbacks with championships and credibility.

Just a thought about something actually related to the game of football

Jake

First Positive Shout-out

It's official, Dave Rose has signed a new contract to stay on as the Head Basketball Coach at Brigham Young University through the 2015-16 season.  Although there was little doubt in my mind that BYU would retain Coach Rose, there were some moments as team after team expressed interest in the coach.  Having the opportunity to talk with Coach Rose in the past, it seems that this is where he wants to be, he loves the area, he loves his young men, and he loves the University and everything it stands for.  Of course it does not matter how much you love an area or a situation if it does not financially make sense.  For this reason I was happy to hear that Coach Rose was also granted an increase in pay for this contract period.  Once again the Coach's salary has not been made public, but President Cecil O. Samuelson had this to say about Coach Rose's new salary, "We believe he's the finest coach at any level,  Whatever he is paid, he'll be underpaid economically."

Coach Rose has done an amazing job with the Basketball program since taking over in 2005.  Rose has just finished Coaching the best season, in terms of wins, in program history with a record of 32-5.  Overall as the Head Coach at BYU Rose is 159-45, a winning percentage of .779, which is the 4th highest among active Division I Head Coaches,  and has led the Cougars to at least 20 wins each season, and currently 5 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.  Most importantly Coach Rose has built a winning attitude, recruited honorable young men, has left little worry about NCAA investigations and sanctions, respected and upheld the University's Honor Code, and has exemplified the University's and what it stands for. 

Even with the drastic changes to the BYU Basketball landscape next year, losing arguably the best back-court in program history and moving to the WCC, along with the possible departure of assistant coach Dave Rice (maybe opening a spot for Dave "Top Dog"), I believe Coach Dave Rose will continue to produce and more importantly will continue to be a worthy representative of the University.

So This Shout-out is for you Coach Rose, Congratulations

Jake

UNLV Rumors

The UNLV basketball program was recently thrown into the Coaching carousel when Lon Kruger jumped ship to take the vacant coaching position at Oklahoma State.   Since his departure, like any coaching job, rumors have been swirling around about who might be the next coach at UNLV.  The basketball atmosphere in the Mountain West Conference is not as deflated as football, as long as New Mexico and San Diego St. can stay relevant, but with that said UNLV can not afford a mediocre coach to step in and struggle for any period of time. Dave Rice assistant at BYU and Reggie Theus, an assistant for the Minnesota Timberwolves, and former NBA head coach for the Sacramento Kings in 2007-08, both former UNLV players, are considered the top of UNLV's wish list.

One rumor about a candidate expressing interest in the UNLV coaching position was former player, and arguably the best UNLV player of all time Larry Johnson.  Larry Johnson is attacking his campaign for the coaching position in true Larry Johnson fashion. http://www.lvrj.com/sports/larry-johnson-has-eye-on-unlv-basketball-coaching-job-119140404.html

Larry Johnson has little to no coaching experience, and has turned down most of, if not all, the coaching opportunities he has been offered.  Larry is not currently being considered as a serious candidate for the position at this time. 

Another rumored interest in the position is coach Bob “The General” Knight.  Bob Knight has the most wins all time in Division I basketball, currently at 902 wins.  This total will soon be passed by his protégé Coach “K” at Duke, but with Duke’s poor Tournament appearance Coach “K” will have to wait until next year.  Now the fact that Bob Knight is interested in the UNLV coaching position is quite the rumor in and of its self; however, the Bob knight portion of the rumor was only mildly shocking when placed into the full context.  The rumor continues that once Bob Knight expressed interest, UNLV quickly made it clear that they were not interested in Coach Knight’s services.

Now I understand that Coach Knight would be a risk for most teams, not for his ability to coach and win games, but for his lack of self control at times and possible embarrassment to the University he represents (I believe that Coach Knight may have better control of his emotions at this stage in his life, but one could only hope).  For most teams this would not be a risk worth taking; however, when your UNLV and your city is built around shows, lights, and the unusual, shouldn’t you at least consider the all time Division I leader in wins?  Yeah there is that chance he may make the University look bad, but its not like the UNLV basketball history is a squeaky clean program, and I guarantee Coach Knight would not be dipping into Jerry ("Tark the Shark") Tarkanian off the court playbook. http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,972568-1,00.html

No disrespect to the UNLV basketball team, but a “General” may help to bring promising players back to the “Sin City,” without so much of the “Sin.”

What do you think Tre’von?

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=5341481

 That’s what I am talking about Willis!

Jake

First Shout-Out goes to Rick Reilly!

Dear Rick Reilly,

Upon completion of the NCAA basketball tournament, including the painful to watch national championship game, I anxiously await your analysis.  After crucifying Jimmer and poorly analyzing his abilities and potential based on what was his worst game of the season, I look forward to your take of the remaining stars of the tournament.  To help speed up the roast, let's take a look at some of the facts.

Against Florida, Jimmer shot an extremely mediocre (for Jimmer) 11/29 (38%) from the field including 3/15 (20%) from 3-point range in scoring 32 points.

Compare and contrast this to Kemba Walker's championship performance.  Kemba shot a blistering 5/19 (26%) from the field including and 0/4 (0%) from behind the arc while scoring 16.  Oh, and he was rewarded for this performance by being named the most outstanding player of the tournament.  I expect you to tell Kemba and UCONN fans that the next time they see him he will be the best player in the local "YMCA" league.

Shelvin Mack and Matt Howard, the undisputed leaders of the Butler squad, shot 4/15 (27%) and 1/13(8%) from the field while scoring 13 and 7 points respectively.  I assume the entire Butler team should be placed in the category of "looking like pizza delivery guys."

These are the stars of the national championship?  And you say that the "myth" of Jimmer is overblown?  It looks to me that Jimmer on his worst day would embarrass either of these teams with their National Championship performance.

Jimmer isn't a myth, Jimmer is a Legend!  And you, Rick Reilly, with your faulty analysis and bias opinions, just got Jimmered.

Love,
Dave

A Toast to your Roast

Elegantly put, and may I add, Dear Mr. Riley religion should have no place in your argument. I have noticed that this may be difficult for you to understand, seeing how after being told this following your first poorly written and uninformed article with slights of Jimmer “POY” and fans who connect themselves with a religious institution, you continued to make religious references such as “Others who are not going to heaven,” in your poor excuse for clarification to readers in your “Jimmer: Readers React” article (http://espn.go.com/blog/rick-reilly-go-fish/post/_/id/869/rick-reilly-mailbag).

For all those who have not seen the original article by Mr. Rick Riley, ESPN continues to post the article on the front page of its website. I am sure the article remains on the Front page due to fan reaction, not because it is well written. You can view it here http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/news/story?id=6257636.

Jake