With everything that has been going on football wise, other sports are going pretty unnoticed.
Now that the college football bowl schedule has come out, fans will start paying more attention to other sports.
For example, which NBA team is on the longest current winning streak? The correct answer is the Dallas Mavericks at 9 games. During that streak, they have beaten San Antonio, Oklahoma City and Utah all on the road.
This team is playing awesome, and barring any injury, it will continue.
I know, I know. This isn't the playoffs. The Mavs stink in the playoffs. So what makes this team different??
I am glad I asked.
This team has depth, and good depth.
JJ Barea, Jason Terry, Shawn Marion and Brenden Haywood could all be starting for other teams. And that goes also for Roddy B, who hasn't suited up for a single game yet.
The other thing this team does is play defense. DeShawn Stevenson and Tyson Chandler have made this a defensive team. It is amazing to think, but when this team needs a stop, it can now get it.
Do I think this team can win it all? Maybe. I am not sure yet.
They do seem to match up better against teams than they did in the past.
They can afford to have a starter who doesn't score, because the other 4 and most of the bench can. The roles on this team are clearly defined. And make no mistake, this is a team.
They bench guys cheer for the starters and the starters cheer for the bench. They truly like each other, which is a big deal for a long season.
I don't know how far this team can go, but with the additions they have made, I am interested again.
Once the playoffs start, we will see. This team has been great in the regular season, but until they preform in the playoffs, nobody cares.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Can't Buy a Ring
I am learning more and more that you can not buy a Championship Ring.
You can look at the New York Yankees, Washington Redskins, Boston Red Sox, and now, the Miami Heat.
They did what every NBA team wishes it could do. They added LeBron James and Chris Bosh to Dwayne Wade. Championship, Right???
WRONG!!!!!!!!
Basketball is the closest there is to an individual sport. The Cleveland Cavaliers were a contender with James. Miami was a playoff team with Wade, and Toronto, well, Toronto has stunk no matter who was on the roster.
It is a little surprising to me that they are hovering around .500. They don't seem to be jelling together.
I know, I know. The original Dream Team did it, but that was because they worked as a team. Nobody on that team cared who scored the most. They wanted gold, and nothing was going to stop them. Look at other Olympic Years. Our teams have been losing. We finally started winning again when the US Team put more emphasis on roles than just getting the best players.
LaBron was the man in Cleveland. Bosh was the man in Toronto. Wade was the man in Miami. So, whose team is it?
LeBron is the best player. Wade is the best team player. Bosh understands that he is a rebounder. They just don't seem to mesh with each other.
The other problem is the fact that there is no bench. If any of the 3 have to come out or get in foul trouble, they are history.
A prime example was on Saturday night against my Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs were playing there fourth game in five nights. They were tired. But, they were at home. The game was close for three and a half quarters, and then the Mavs took off. Caron Butler and Tyson Chandlar were killing the Heat inside and out. The Heat were the team that ran out of gas.
My opinion, the Heat should have signed Bosh and then used the other $15.5 million on a better supporting cast.
The biggest mistake this group made, was that they should have all said it together. With LeBron doing "The Decision," he looks like a tool. All that did was make every other team want to beat the Heat, and as of right now, almost everyone is.
I do think the Heat will turn it around and be a solid playoff team, but as of right now, they are way behind the Orlando Magic and Boston Celtics.
Pat Riley, you tried to buy a team, and you lost. You should have known better from your Laker days.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
You can look at the New York Yankees, Washington Redskins, Boston Red Sox, and now, the Miami Heat.
They did what every NBA team wishes it could do. They added LeBron James and Chris Bosh to Dwayne Wade. Championship, Right???
WRONG!!!!!!!!
Basketball is the closest there is to an individual sport. The Cleveland Cavaliers were a contender with James. Miami was a playoff team with Wade, and Toronto, well, Toronto has stunk no matter who was on the roster.
It is a little surprising to me that they are hovering around .500. They don't seem to be jelling together.
I know, I know. The original Dream Team did it, but that was because they worked as a team. Nobody on that team cared who scored the most. They wanted gold, and nothing was going to stop them. Look at other Olympic Years. Our teams have been losing. We finally started winning again when the US Team put more emphasis on roles than just getting the best players.
LaBron was the man in Cleveland. Bosh was the man in Toronto. Wade was the man in Miami. So, whose team is it?
LeBron is the best player. Wade is the best team player. Bosh understands that he is a rebounder. They just don't seem to mesh with each other.
The other problem is the fact that there is no bench. If any of the 3 have to come out or get in foul trouble, they are history.
A prime example was on Saturday night against my Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs were playing there fourth game in five nights. They were tired. But, they were at home. The game was close for three and a half quarters, and then the Mavs took off. Caron Butler and Tyson Chandlar were killing the Heat inside and out. The Heat were the team that ran out of gas.
My opinion, the Heat should have signed Bosh and then used the other $15.5 million on a better supporting cast.
The biggest mistake this group made, was that they should have all said it together. With LeBron doing "The Decision," he looks like a tool. All that did was make every other team want to beat the Heat, and as of right now, almost everyone is.
I do think the Heat will turn it around and be a solid playoff team, but as of right now, they are way behind the Orlando Magic and Boston Celtics.
Pat Riley, you tried to buy a team, and you lost. You should have known better from your Laker days.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Red Headed Jesus to the Rescue
Is that really all it took?
Push Wade aside, and let the "Red headed Jesus" take over.
Jason Garrett is now 1-0 as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
The offensive philosophy stayed the same, as Garrett still called the plays, but it looked as if the team decided to run the ball more. Felix Jones looked good early, and Marion Barber looked good finishing the game. In between, Jon Kitna looked 28, not 38, and Dez Bryant looked All-Pro.
The defense still has some holes, but made stops when they had to.
The biggest difference to me, was the fact that the Cowboys only had 5 or 6 penalties. They won the turnover battle with the Giants, and mostly importantly, won a division game on the road.
Now, this team is a long ways away from doing anything, but they have to start somewhere.
The practices were run a little stricter, and guys were held accountable.
I keep reminding myself that it is only 1 game, but just imagine if Garrett would have been in place all year. You could see the team turning on Wade in training camp, and the team came out flat.
Now, Garrett gets his shot. People, including myself, have been calling for Bill Cowher or Jim Harbough, but if the team plays like this for Garrett, then keep him.
There are 7 more games to see what Jason can do, but when Buffalo won their first game today, I got a little excited thinking that our draft position improved. But watching the team today, I will gladly give up draft spots for wins.
This team is getting a reality slap right to the face, and they deserve it. But at the same time, this roster has talent. If they have found the right guy to lead this talent, then the wins will come.
I know, I have to keep telling myself it is just 1 game, but what a great 1 game it was.
Like always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Push Wade aside, and let the "Red headed Jesus" take over.
Jason Garrett is now 1-0 as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
The offensive philosophy stayed the same, as Garrett still called the plays, but it looked as if the team decided to run the ball more. Felix Jones looked good early, and Marion Barber looked good finishing the game. In between, Jon Kitna looked 28, not 38, and Dez Bryant looked All-Pro.
The defense still has some holes, but made stops when they had to.
The biggest difference to me, was the fact that the Cowboys only had 5 or 6 penalties. They won the turnover battle with the Giants, and mostly importantly, won a division game on the road.
Now, this team is a long ways away from doing anything, but they have to start somewhere.
The practices were run a little stricter, and guys were held accountable.
I keep reminding myself that it is only 1 game, but just imagine if Garrett would have been in place all year. You could see the team turning on Wade in training camp, and the team came out flat.
Now, Garrett gets his shot. People, including myself, have been calling for Bill Cowher or Jim Harbough, but if the team plays like this for Garrett, then keep him.
There are 7 more games to see what Jason can do, but when Buffalo won their first game today, I got a little excited thinking that our draft position improved. But watching the team today, I will gladly give up draft spots for wins.
This team is getting a reality slap right to the face, and they deserve it. But at the same time, this roster has talent. If they have found the right guy to lead this talent, then the wins will come.
I know, I have to keep telling myself it is just 1 game, but what a great 1 game it was.
Like always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, November 7, 2010
I love DFW
Since the Dallas Cowboys have decided to totally stink it up this year, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on my teams.
Even though the Cowboys are crappy, Jerry Jones is a good owner. Nobody is the world of sports wants to win as much as Jerry. Now, Jerry the general manager, needs an ass-whipping, but Jerry the owner is great.
Now that Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan own the Texas Rangers, I don't think there is any doubt that they will be competitive year in and year out.
Mark Cuban lives and breathes Dallas Mavericks. He is more passionate about his team than anyone.
The one thing these 3 have in common, is their love for the fans. Cuban and Greenberg have come out and said that they want the fan to have a new experience every time they see a game live. Jerry has used a lot of his own money to build one of the greatest structures ever built.
Tom Hicks, on the other hand, well, at least he sold the Rangers and is trying to sell the Dallas Stars.
I think sometimes we forget how good we have it in the metroplex.
Right now, The Mavericks and Stars both have winning records and the Rangers are coming off a World Series. The team with the most hype, Cowboys, are the only ones underachieving.
So what.
Every now and then, your team is gonna stink. But take the Cowboys out of the equation and throw in college football.
SMU is on the rise with June Jones and TCU is putting together a season that looks like it will end in the national championship game.
All in all, it is pretty great right now in DFW.
And what is really different right now?
Even if the Cowboys were 7-1, fans would be pointing out what was wrong with the team.
I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsortsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Even though the Cowboys are crappy, Jerry Jones is a good owner. Nobody is the world of sports wants to win as much as Jerry. Now, Jerry the general manager, needs an ass-whipping, but Jerry the owner is great.
Now that Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan own the Texas Rangers, I don't think there is any doubt that they will be competitive year in and year out.
Mark Cuban lives and breathes Dallas Mavericks. He is more passionate about his team than anyone.
The one thing these 3 have in common, is their love for the fans. Cuban and Greenberg have come out and said that they want the fan to have a new experience every time they see a game live. Jerry has used a lot of his own money to build one of the greatest structures ever built.
Tom Hicks, on the other hand, well, at least he sold the Rangers and is trying to sell the Dallas Stars.
I think sometimes we forget how good we have it in the metroplex.
Right now, The Mavericks and Stars both have winning records and the Rangers are coming off a World Series. The team with the most hype, Cowboys, are the only ones underachieving.
So what.
Every now and then, your team is gonna stink. But take the Cowboys out of the equation and throw in college football.
SMU is on the rise with June Jones and TCU is putting together a season that looks like it will end in the national championship game.
All in all, it is pretty great right now in DFW.
And what is really different right now?
Even if the Cowboys were 7-1, fans would be pointing out what was wrong with the team.
I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsortsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Who Now
Ok, lets go down the list.
We have blamed Jerry
We have blamed Wade
We have blamed Jason Garrett
We have blamed Wade (he deserves 2)
We blamed the Offense
We blamed the Defense
We blamed Special Teams
Some idiots have blamed Romo
People have blamed Felix
Who is left?
I know !!! I Know !!!
This team was put together as a championship team. They were told they were going to the Super Bowl. They were coddled in camp. They were coddled in the preseason.
Miles Austin caught everything thrown in his direction...last year.
This year Miles dated Kim Kardashian, got a big contract, and leads the league at balls going through his hands and into the hands of the defense.
Marion Barber was a tough short yardage runner...2 years ago.
He got a big contract, and now thinks he has the speed to get outside.
These are only a couple of examples, but this team has become a bunch of premadonnas.
The hardest working guys are the ones still proving something.
Doug Free has been the best offensive lineman.
Dez Bryant has been the best player...PERIOD!!
Until someone, whether it is the coach or the owner or someone, this team is never going to win a championship. Someone needs to get in here and rip some ASS!!!
Until that happens, these are the results.
As Always, I want to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
We have blamed Jerry
We have blamed Wade
We have blamed Jason Garrett
We have blamed Wade (he deserves 2)
We blamed the Offense
We blamed the Defense
We blamed Special Teams
Some idiots have blamed Romo
People have blamed Felix
Who is left?
I know !!! I Know !!!
This team was put together as a championship team. They were told they were going to the Super Bowl. They were coddled in camp. They were coddled in the preseason.
Miles Austin caught everything thrown in his direction...last year.
This year Miles dated Kim Kardashian, got a big contract, and leads the league at balls going through his hands and into the hands of the defense.
Marion Barber was a tough short yardage runner...2 years ago.
He got a big contract, and now thinks he has the speed to get outside.
These are only a couple of examples, but this team has become a bunch of premadonnas.
The hardest working guys are the ones still proving something.
Doug Free has been the best offensive lineman.
Dez Bryant has been the best player...PERIOD!!
Until someone, whether it is the coach or the owner or someone, this team is never going to win a championship. Someone needs to get in here and rip some ASS!!!
Until that happens, these are the results.
As Always, I want to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
Friday, October 22, 2010
Its Time
It is TIME!!
I have been hearing that all year, but never really believed it. I knew the 2010 Texas Rangers were gonna be good, but I never had any idea they would be this good.
In the 1970s and 80s, this team was a laughing stock. They were the doormats. They had some good players, and occasionally did ok in the standings, but no one ever thought this team would compete.
In the 1990s, this team was developing some great players. They developed 2 time MVP Juan Gonzalez, and 1999 MVP Ivan Rodriguez. They signed Will Clark and then Rafeal Palmeiro as free agents. This team could hit. They hit so well that they made the playoffs in 1996, 98, and 99. They ran into the New York Yankees every time, and the result was the same. In 10 games, New York won 9. The Rangers never had pitching.
In the 2000s, Tom Hicks tried to buy players. He outbid himself for Alex Rodriguez and Chan Ho Park. He over payed for roll players like Todd Van Poppel and Jay Powell. Eventually, it caught up with him, and the team dismantled.
The team started on a plan in 2007. At the trade deadline, they traded Mark Texeira and Ron Mahay to Atlanta for Neftali Feliz, Elvis Andrus, Matt Harrison, Jarrod Saltalamachia and Beau Jones. They also hired Ron Washington as manager.
Jon Daniels then set a precedent by signing players that had something to prove. He signed them cheap, one because he had no money and because the player wanted to prove himself. He got Eric Gange and turned him into David Murphy and 2 minor leaguers. Kenny Lofton became Max Ramirez. He did this over and over, and slowly built up the farm system.
Again, the team finished 3rd, but it was an improving third. They were doing it with young players rather that overpaid veterans.
2008, the Rangers decide to take a chance. They traded one of their top pitching prospects, Edinison Volquez to Cincinnati for Josh Hamilton. Nobody knew what to expect from Hamilton. He was coming off a season in which he hit 19 homers and drove in 49 runs. But the Rangers saw something.
This team lacked pitching. It had Kevin Millwood and then a bunch of guys trying to prove themselves. But behind Hamilton and Michael Young, they moved to 2nd place.
2009, Hamilton was injured on and off, and the team finished 2nd again, tied with Oakland.
Now 2010. The team had an interesting off season. They were up for sale. Hamilton was coming off and injury. They had signed Darren Oliver and Vladamir Guerrero away from Anaheim. They resigned Colby Lewis, who had pitched in Japan the last 2 years. The moved CJ Wilson into the starting rotation. They signed Rich Harden, and gave Scot Feldman a new deal.
But you felt something with this team.
Harden, Feldman and Saltalamachia were all ineffective, yet this team fought on. Derek Holland and Tommy Hunter stepped into their roles and were solid. Matt Treanor was unbelievable at catcher. You expected nothing from him, but he stabilized the pitching staff, and he contributed some offense.
Hamilton, Guerrero and Nelson Cruz carried the team. Ian Kinsler got hurt, and Joaquin Arias stepped in.
The team was plugging along in 1st place, but were still not being taken seriously. Rightfully so. The division was weak.
But Daniels didn't rest.
Before the deadline got close, he first added Jorge Cantu and Bengie Molina. A little veteran leadership, but the team still lacked a bona fide ace. Battling the Yankees again, New York thought they had a deal in place with Seattle. Seattle called Texas, and Daniels said, "ALL IN!!"
The Texas Rangers acquired Cliff Lee. There is your ace.
Down the stretch, the Rangers were getting some national whispers. The swept the Yankees in a series in Arlington and slowly pulled away in the West.
With the division sewn up, the started playing the big bad AL East. 3 wins in Boston, 2 in Tampa and 1 in New York. Not bad against the big boys.
Playoffs roll around. CLIFF LEE!! Nelson Cruz was a beast at the plate, and the pitching staff was awesome. Cliff Lee pitched a brilliant game to clinch the division.
American League Championship Series started awful. A 5-1 lead in the 8th inning of game one, and they eventually lose 6-5.
Heartbreak. The Yankees again.
But this wasn't the same Texas Rangers. They fought back and took game 2 in Texas to head to New York tied 1-1. In New York, the pitching took over again. Cliff Lee pitched an amazing game 3, and the bullpen was phenomenal in game 4. The Yanks got one in game 5, so it is back to Texas, with the Rangers having a 3-2 lead. Game 6. Colby Lewis was on. He gave up 3 hits in 8 innings. He was unhittable. Rangers win 6-1 and take the series 4-2 to head to their first ever World Series.
As a fan of the team for over 20 years, I got a little emotional. I teared up a tad, I yelled, I ran outside and high fived my neighbors. I didn't care how I looked. My team is in the World Series.
Let me say that again...The Texas Rangers are in the World Series.
This team has shown more resiliency than any team I have ever seen. I am proud to call this my team. I don't care who they play in the Series and either do they. This is AWESOME.
And yes, I will scoot over and give you a spot on the bandwagon.
I love this for Nolan, Chuck, Ron and the whole team.
With this team, anything is possible.
Let me hear from you. john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
I have been hearing that all year, but never really believed it. I knew the 2010 Texas Rangers were gonna be good, but I never had any idea they would be this good.
In the 1970s and 80s, this team was a laughing stock. They were the doormats. They had some good players, and occasionally did ok in the standings, but no one ever thought this team would compete.
In the 1990s, this team was developing some great players. They developed 2 time MVP Juan Gonzalez, and 1999 MVP Ivan Rodriguez. They signed Will Clark and then Rafeal Palmeiro as free agents. This team could hit. They hit so well that they made the playoffs in 1996, 98, and 99. They ran into the New York Yankees every time, and the result was the same. In 10 games, New York won 9. The Rangers never had pitching.
In the 2000s, Tom Hicks tried to buy players. He outbid himself for Alex Rodriguez and Chan Ho Park. He over payed for roll players like Todd Van Poppel and Jay Powell. Eventually, it caught up with him, and the team dismantled.
The team started on a plan in 2007. At the trade deadline, they traded Mark Texeira and Ron Mahay to Atlanta for Neftali Feliz, Elvis Andrus, Matt Harrison, Jarrod Saltalamachia and Beau Jones. They also hired Ron Washington as manager.
Jon Daniels then set a precedent by signing players that had something to prove. He signed them cheap, one because he had no money and because the player wanted to prove himself. He got Eric Gange and turned him into David Murphy and 2 minor leaguers. Kenny Lofton became Max Ramirez. He did this over and over, and slowly built up the farm system.
Again, the team finished 3rd, but it was an improving third. They were doing it with young players rather that overpaid veterans.
2008, the Rangers decide to take a chance. They traded one of their top pitching prospects, Edinison Volquez to Cincinnati for Josh Hamilton. Nobody knew what to expect from Hamilton. He was coming off a season in which he hit 19 homers and drove in 49 runs. But the Rangers saw something.
This team lacked pitching. It had Kevin Millwood and then a bunch of guys trying to prove themselves. But behind Hamilton and Michael Young, they moved to 2nd place.
2009, Hamilton was injured on and off, and the team finished 2nd again, tied with Oakland.
Now 2010. The team had an interesting off season. They were up for sale. Hamilton was coming off and injury. They had signed Darren Oliver and Vladamir Guerrero away from Anaheim. They resigned Colby Lewis, who had pitched in Japan the last 2 years. The moved CJ Wilson into the starting rotation. They signed Rich Harden, and gave Scot Feldman a new deal.
But you felt something with this team.
Harden, Feldman and Saltalamachia were all ineffective, yet this team fought on. Derek Holland and Tommy Hunter stepped into their roles and were solid. Matt Treanor was unbelievable at catcher. You expected nothing from him, but he stabilized the pitching staff, and he contributed some offense.
Hamilton, Guerrero and Nelson Cruz carried the team. Ian Kinsler got hurt, and Joaquin Arias stepped in.
The team was plugging along in 1st place, but were still not being taken seriously. Rightfully so. The division was weak.
But Daniels didn't rest.
Before the deadline got close, he first added Jorge Cantu and Bengie Molina. A little veteran leadership, but the team still lacked a bona fide ace. Battling the Yankees again, New York thought they had a deal in place with Seattle. Seattle called Texas, and Daniels said, "ALL IN!!"
The Texas Rangers acquired Cliff Lee. There is your ace.
Down the stretch, the Rangers were getting some national whispers. The swept the Yankees in a series in Arlington and slowly pulled away in the West.
With the division sewn up, the started playing the big bad AL East. 3 wins in Boston, 2 in Tampa and 1 in New York. Not bad against the big boys.
Playoffs roll around. CLIFF LEE!! Nelson Cruz was a beast at the plate, and the pitching staff was awesome. Cliff Lee pitched a brilliant game to clinch the division.
American League Championship Series started awful. A 5-1 lead in the 8th inning of game one, and they eventually lose 6-5.
Heartbreak. The Yankees again.
But this wasn't the same Texas Rangers. They fought back and took game 2 in Texas to head to New York tied 1-1. In New York, the pitching took over again. Cliff Lee pitched an amazing game 3, and the bullpen was phenomenal in game 4. The Yanks got one in game 5, so it is back to Texas, with the Rangers having a 3-2 lead. Game 6. Colby Lewis was on. He gave up 3 hits in 8 innings. He was unhittable. Rangers win 6-1 and take the series 4-2 to head to their first ever World Series.
As a fan of the team for over 20 years, I got a little emotional. I teared up a tad, I yelled, I ran outside and high fived my neighbors. I didn't care how I looked. My team is in the World Series.
Let me say that again...The Texas Rangers are in the World Series.
This team has shown more resiliency than any team I have ever seen. I am proud to call this my team. I don't care who they play in the Series and either do they. This is AWESOME.
And yes, I will scoot over and give you a spot on the bandwagon.
I love this for Nolan, Chuck, Ron and the whole team.
With this team, anything is possible.
Let me hear from you. john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, October 17, 2010
WTF
I give up. I really do.
I have tried to figure out how the Dallas Cowboys can win a game, and I came up with nothing.
They are a top 5 offense, a top 10 defense, and the special teams are ok.
So why can't they win a game?
Because there is no discipline on this team.
They got called for excessive celebration last week against Tennessee that cost them field position, and eventually the game. So what happens after their first touchdown against Minnesota? Excessive Celebration. Congratulations Miles Austin.
But don't worry, Miles was just getting warmed up.
You had 2 steps on a guy for at least a huge gain, but lets push off anyway, run for a touchdown, only to get it called back. After that, Austin disappeared.
Doug Free has been the most consistent offensive lineman for the Cowboys this year. He gets beat one time, Romo hurries, and throws a pass off a helmet for an interception at the 20 yard line.
Late in the game, the Cowboys hold the Vikings to 2 yards, and need to hold on 3rd down to get the ball back with 2 minutes left. The heck with that, Mike Jenkins holds and the Vikings get to run down all but 13 seconds. Game over.
What does all this mean?
As much as I would love to blame Wade Phillips for all of this, he is not out there making bonehead plays. This team thinks that it is so talented, that it can just show up and win games.
I guess not.
If it wasn't for the Texas Rangers deep playoff run, the Dallas Stars starting 4-0, and the Dallas Mavericks about to start, I might be pissed. But, I am not.
This has been a year in the making. This team didn't have enough talent last year and did nothing this off season to improve the talent.
Yes, I understand that when you put the star on the helmet, you get a little swagger, but this team thinks it should have just been given a bye into the Super Bowl.
Whats worse is the fact that they think they could be 4-1 or at the least 3-2, and all would be good.
The reality is, you are 1-4, and the road is not getting any easier. This team will be lucky to win 5 games and it pains me to say it.
Right now, I really hate my team. Unfortunately, it is the only one I have. I will suffer through this season, and hope Jerry is more aggressive in the off season next year, but with a lockout looming, that doesn't look good.
The one thing positive I will say, we are watching one of the better quarterback performances in a Cowboy's uniform in a long time. For those of you that want to blame Tony Romo for this start, you are obviously football morons. He is the one bright spot, with possibly Roy Williams.
I will keep watching, but my hand is always on the remote looking for something better.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
I have tried to figure out how the Dallas Cowboys can win a game, and I came up with nothing.
They are a top 5 offense, a top 10 defense, and the special teams are ok.
So why can't they win a game?
Because there is no discipline on this team.
They got called for excessive celebration last week against Tennessee that cost them field position, and eventually the game. So what happens after their first touchdown against Minnesota? Excessive Celebration. Congratulations Miles Austin.
But don't worry, Miles was just getting warmed up.
You had 2 steps on a guy for at least a huge gain, but lets push off anyway, run for a touchdown, only to get it called back. After that, Austin disappeared.
Doug Free has been the most consistent offensive lineman for the Cowboys this year. He gets beat one time, Romo hurries, and throws a pass off a helmet for an interception at the 20 yard line.
Late in the game, the Cowboys hold the Vikings to 2 yards, and need to hold on 3rd down to get the ball back with 2 minutes left. The heck with that, Mike Jenkins holds and the Vikings get to run down all but 13 seconds. Game over.
What does all this mean?
As much as I would love to blame Wade Phillips for all of this, he is not out there making bonehead plays. This team thinks that it is so talented, that it can just show up and win games.
I guess not.
If it wasn't for the Texas Rangers deep playoff run, the Dallas Stars starting 4-0, and the Dallas Mavericks about to start, I might be pissed. But, I am not.
This has been a year in the making. This team didn't have enough talent last year and did nothing this off season to improve the talent.
Yes, I understand that when you put the star on the helmet, you get a little swagger, but this team thinks it should have just been given a bye into the Super Bowl.
Whats worse is the fact that they think they could be 4-1 or at the least 3-2, and all would be good.
The reality is, you are 1-4, and the road is not getting any easier. This team will be lucky to win 5 games and it pains me to say it.
Right now, I really hate my team. Unfortunately, it is the only one I have. I will suffer through this season, and hope Jerry is more aggressive in the off season next year, but with a lockout looming, that doesn't look good.
The one thing positive I will say, we are watching one of the better quarterback performances in a Cowboy's uniform in a long time. For those of you that want to blame Tony Romo for this start, you are obviously football morons. He is the one bright spot, with possibly Roy Williams.
I will keep watching, but my hand is always on the remote looking for something better.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Bye Bye Wade
I am not angry. I am not mad. I don't really feel anything except confusion.
When Jimmy Johnson left years ago, Jerry brought in Barry, then Chan, and then Campo. None of it worked. I know Barry won a Super Bowl, but Jimmy had those players ready to coach themselves. Barry just stood on the sidelines looking dumb.
Gailey never really got a shot, to no fault of his own. Campo, was well, a defensive coach, but not a head coach. I am not even sure Campo was a good defensive coordinator, but he is an outstanding secondary coach.
Then, Big Bill was brought in. The team went on a upward climb.
Bill left.
Now we get to Wade Phillips.
Once again, he is a great defensive coach, but head coach, not so much.
With Barry, Chan and Campo, there were too many penalties and turnovers and the coach was gone.
With Wade, there are too many penalties and turnovers , and yet he stays.
Why?
I will tell you why. This team has ten times the talent that Chan and Campo had. That is the only reason the Cowboys are winning games. The talent level that they have is overwhelming.
The problem is, they are getting out coached every week. I liked Chan Gailey. If he had this team, they would be 3-1 now, guaranteed.
I know Jerry, and I am disappointed in him for not adding more depth, but mostly, I am so sick of Wade.
This team was successful with Landry, Johnson, and Big Bill.
Why?
They held players accountable, and if they didn't do the job, they were replaced.
The Dallas Cowboys have an image, and right now that image is soft. Sometimes the talent is just so much better that they win games. But if the talent is equal or close to it, they lose, because they get out coached.
Jerry, if you can't see it shame on you.
As a fan of the Cowboys, I am now officially embarrassed of my team. I hate my coach, and I am pissed at the owner for not firing the general manager and head coach.
I am well aware that it won't happen, but can we get Bill Cowher in here fast. PLEASE!!!
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
When Jimmy Johnson left years ago, Jerry brought in Barry, then Chan, and then Campo. None of it worked. I know Barry won a Super Bowl, but Jimmy had those players ready to coach themselves. Barry just stood on the sidelines looking dumb.
Gailey never really got a shot, to no fault of his own. Campo, was well, a defensive coach, but not a head coach. I am not even sure Campo was a good defensive coordinator, but he is an outstanding secondary coach.
Then, Big Bill was brought in. The team went on a upward climb.
Bill left.
Now we get to Wade Phillips.
Once again, he is a great defensive coach, but head coach, not so much.
With Barry, Chan and Campo, there were too many penalties and turnovers and the coach was gone.
With Wade, there are too many penalties and turnovers , and yet he stays.
Why?
I will tell you why. This team has ten times the talent that Chan and Campo had. That is the only reason the Cowboys are winning games. The talent level that they have is overwhelming.
The problem is, they are getting out coached every week. I liked Chan Gailey. If he had this team, they would be 3-1 now, guaranteed.
I know Jerry, and I am disappointed in him for not adding more depth, but mostly, I am so sick of Wade.
This team was successful with Landry, Johnson, and Big Bill.
Why?
They held players accountable, and if they didn't do the job, they were replaced.
The Dallas Cowboys have an image, and right now that image is soft. Sometimes the talent is just so much better that they win games. But if the talent is equal or close to it, they lose, because they get out coached.
Jerry, if you can't see it shame on you.
As a fan of the Cowboys, I am now officially embarrassed of my team. I hate my coach, and I am pissed at the owner for not firing the general manager and head coach.
I am well aware that it won't happen, but can we get Bill Cowher in here fast. PLEASE!!!
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, September 26, 2010
AL West Champs
The 2010 Texas Rangers are the American League West Champions. Let me repeat, the 2010 Texas Rangers are the American League West Champions.
I know. It is hard saying it. It has a been a long time coming.
The men who run the Ranger's front office told us it would be 2010 when the Rangers would be contenders. But how many times had we heard that?
First, we were in a win now mode. The team signed Alex Rodriguez, Chan Ho Park, Todd VanPoppell, Juan Gonzalez, and so on. Then, once that blew up in Tom Hick's face, we became a rebuilding team. We signed guys with the sole purpose of trading them, and that seemed to work.
Jon Daniels turned Eric Gagne into David Murphy. He got Max Ramirez for Kenny Lofton. Things were improving. The team was drafting good, and we were still losing, but we were losing with 22 year olds instead of 32 year olds.
Finally, the Hershel Walker trade came. Knowing that they could not sign him long term, the Rangers traded Mark Texiera and Ron Mahay to the Atlanta Braves. So how did that trade effect the 2010 team?
It produced the starting shortstop, Elvis Andrus, the closer, Neftali Feliz, a lefty bullpen/starter, Matt Harrison, and a trade chip, Jarrod Saltalamachia, who turned into 3 more prospects.
It was a bold move for a franchise that needed it. Just look at the team now:
1st base - Chris Davis, drafted, Mitch Moreland, drafted, and Jorge Cantu, traded for
2nd base - Ian Kinsler, drafted, Andres Blanco, traded for cash
3rd base - Michael Young, a throw in from Toronto
SS - Andrus
OF - Borbon, drafted, Cruz, trade from Milwaukee, Murphy, Hamilton, trade from Cincinnati, Francoeur, trade
DH - Vladimir Guerrero, signed cheap away from the Angels
C - Molina, trade, Treanor, trade
SP - Lee, trade, Wilson, drafted, Lewis, signed cheap, Hunter, drafted, Holland, drafted
RP - Feliz, Fransisco,signed as a kid, Oliver, signed away from Angels, O'Day, waiver pick up
and so on and so on.
This team has been on a budget for years, but to Jon Daniels credit, those players they did sign, he turned into prospects. Now, not only are the prospects producing, but they have so many that they are able to trade some for players now.
You are not able to add Cliff Lee without top notch prospects.
It will be very interesting to see how this team goes in the future. Daniels will still be looking for bargains, but at the same time, Chuck Greenberg will not hesitate to open the checkbook in the future.
For now, I am looking forward to watching the Texas Rangers in the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. Once you make the playoffs, anything can happen.
Step #1 - Win Division - Check
Lets see what happens to steps 2-4.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me a message at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
I know. It is hard saying it. It has a been a long time coming.
The men who run the Ranger's front office told us it would be 2010 when the Rangers would be contenders. But how many times had we heard that?
First, we were in a win now mode. The team signed Alex Rodriguez, Chan Ho Park, Todd VanPoppell, Juan Gonzalez, and so on. Then, once that blew up in Tom Hick's face, we became a rebuilding team. We signed guys with the sole purpose of trading them, and that seemed to work.
Jon Daniels turned Eric Gagne into David Murphy. He got Max Ramirez for Kenny Lofton. Things were improving. The team was drafting good, and we were still losing, but we were losing with 22 year olds instead of 32 year olds.
Finally, the Hershel Walker trade came. Knowing that they could not sign him long term, the Rangers traded Mark Texiera and Ron Mahay to the Atlanta Braves. So how did that trade effect the 2010 team?
It produced the starting shortstop, Elvis Andrus, the closer, Neftali Feliz, a lefty bullpen/starter, Matt Harrison, and a trade chip, Jarrod Saltalamachia, who turned into 3 more prospects.
It was a bold move for a franchise that needed it. Just look at the team now:
1st base - Chris Davis, drafted, Mitch Moreland, drafted, and Jorge Cantu, traded for
2nd base - Ian Kinsler, drafted, Andres Blanco, traded for cash
3rd base - Michael Young, a throw in from Toronto
SS - Andrus
OF - Borbon, drafted, Cruz, trade from Milwaukee, Murphy, Hamilton, trade from Cincinnati, Francoeur, trade
DH - Vladimir Guerrero, signed cheap away from the Angels
C - Molina, trade, Treanor, trade
SP - Lee, trade, Wilson, drafted, Lewis, signed cheap, Hunter, drafted, Holland, drafted
RP - Feliz, Fransisco,signed as a kid, Oliver, signed away from Angels, O'Day, waiver pick up
and so on and so on.
This team has been on a budget for years, but to Jon Daniels credit, those players they did sign, he turned into prospects. Now, not only are the prospects producing, but they have so many that they are able to trade some for players now.
You are not able to add Cliff Lee without top notch prospects.
It will be very interesting to see how this team goes in the future. Daniels will still be looking for bargains, but at the same time, Chuck Greenberg will not hesitate to open the checkbook in the future.
For now, I am looking forward to watching the Texas Rangers in the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. Once you make the playoffs, anything can happen.
Step #1 - Win Division - Check
Lets see what happens to steps 2-4.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me a message at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Do I even care
So the Dallas Cowboys lost again.
They looked bad in the preseason, and now they have looked bad in the regular season.
In week 1, the defense looked amazing, while the offense was horrid, and Buehler missed a couple of field goals. In week 2, the offense moves the ball, Dez looks great, but the defense can't stop the pass. And Buehler missed a field goal. He is consistent, consistently crappy.
The biggest problem with this whole thing...I don't even care.
Sure, I am a die hard fan, but it doesn't seem to bother me as much as it used to. Maybe it is because my Red Raiders lost yesterday, or maybe it is the fact that the Texas Rangers are about to make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
Whatever the reason, I don't care.
This team was over hyped, and when Jerry had an opportunity to upgrade this roster, he failed. There was no cap, yet Jerry sat patiently. We should have gotten a free safety, a kicker, and some experienced offensive linemen. Don't tell me the cap next year bothered you, because next year the Super Bowl is not in Dallas.
I am not willing to turn in my fan card just yet, but at the same time, I have become a football fan.
That must be it. I am so into watching a lot of games for fantasy purposes, that it bothers me more if my fantasy team does bad, rather than my home team.
Whatever the reason, the Cowboys schedule does not get any easier. The Texans are for real. It will be real interesting to see who stays and who goes, if they keep stinking it up. I will keep watching, but who really cares.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
They looked bad in the preseason, and now they have looked bad in the regular season.
In week 1, the defense looked amazing, while the offense was horrid, and Buehler missed a couple of field goals. In week 2, the offense moves the ball, Dez looks great, but the defense can't stop the pass. And Buehler missed a field goal. He is consistent, consistently crappy.
The biggest problem with this whole thing...I don't even care.
Sure, I am a die hard fan, but it doesn't seem to bother me as much as it used to. Maybe it is because my Red Raiders lost yesterday, or maybe it is the fact that the Texas Rangers are about to make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
Whatever the reason, I don't care.
This team was over hyped, and when Jerry had an opportunity to upgrade this roster, he failed. There was no cap, yet Jerry sat patiently. We should have gotten a free safety, a kicker, and some experienced offensive linemen. Don't tell me the cap next year bothered you, because next year the Super Bowl is not in Dallas.
I am not willing to turn in my fan card just yet, but at the same time, I have become a football fan.
That must be it. I am so into watching a lot of games for fantasy purposes, that it bothers me more if my fantasy team does bad, rather than my home team.
Whatever the reason, the Cowboys schedule does not get any easier. The Texans are for real. It will be real interesting to see who stays and who goes, if they keep stinking it up. I will keep watching, but who really cares.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Opening of FOOOOOOTBALL Season
The first weekend of NFL is upon us. Everyone still thinks they are in it.
As I watch and blog at the same time, I realize, the Texans are for real. The Lions are improving. The Bengals, well, not so much.
Teams are making statements early. They're are players having the games of their life early. Arian Foster could very well be the missing piece in Houston.
It is all about statements. The Patriots are making a statement. The Texans are making a bigger statement. Detroit is letting people know that they can play.
There are still plenty of weeks left to play, but if you can get off on the right foot early, it sets the tone for the entire year.
I am a homer. I have never hidden it. I will probably pick the Cowboys to win every game. Right now, I am a little concerned about the offensive line. But if the Cowboys go out and win against the hated Redskins, then I won't care how Barron and Holland played, unless Romo gets hurt.
Not only are teams making statements, but individual players have a chance to do the same. Darren McFadden has been a bust, but if he can have a good game with Michael Bush out, then people will quiet down. Derek Anderson gets a do over in Arizona. He went from Pro Bowl quarterback to the bench, to traded, to starter. He has great players around him. He needs to make a statement.
This is whats great about the opening weekend of the NFL. Everyone is equal and everyone is even.
If you can go out there and make a statement early, you may be on your way to Dallas for the Super Bowl.
Happy watching and Go COWBOYS!!!!
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
As I watch and blog at the same time, I realize, the Texans are for real. The Lions are improving. The Bengals, well, not so much.
Teams are making statements early. They're are players having the games of their life early. Arian Foster could very well be the missing piece in Houston.
It is all about statements. The Patriots are making a statement. The Texans are making a bigger statement. Detroit is letting people know that they can play.
There are still plenty of weeks left to play, but if you can get off on the right foot early, it sets the tone for the entire year.
I am a homer. I have never hidden it. I will probably pick the Cowboys to win every game. Right now, I am a little concerned about the offensive line. But if the Cowboys go out and win against the hated Redskins, then I won't care how Barron and Holland played, unless Romo gets hurt.
Not only are teams making statements, but individual players have a chance to do the same. Darren McFadden has been a bust, but if he can have a good game with Michael Bush out, then people will quiet down. Derek Anderson gets a do over in Arizona. He went from Pro Bowl quarterback to the bench, to traded, to starter. He has great players around him. He needs to make a statement.
This is whats great about the opening weekend of the NFL. Everyone is equal and everyone is even.
If you can go out there and make a statement early, you may be on your way to Dallas for the Super Bowl.
Happy watching and Go COWBOYS!!!!
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, September 5, 2010
College Football Underway
College Football has begun. It is probably the most unpredictable weekend in the sport's world. Nobody really knows who is going to be good and who is not. There are teams every year that are ranked in the top 5 and finish out of the top 25. On the other hand, there is always a team that is not ranked at all that finishes in the top 5.
So what did we learn in week 1? Absolutely nothing.
We saw that Florida can't snap the ball from the center to the quarterback. We saw that Alabama can win a game without the defending Heisman trophy winner in Mark Ingram. We saw Jacksonville St. upset Ole Miss. Lets just hope that Larry didn't pick them to win a national championship, again.
Oklahoma had all they could handle. Texas toyed with Rice before ending them. Texas A&M, started strong, and Baylor is now thinking bowl game again with Robert Griffin back.
I am happy Texas Tech won, but Tommy Tuberville better have a better game plan coming up. I was happy that Ruffin McNeil, Tech's old defensive coordinator, got a win in his first game at East Carolina.
All that being said, we still know nothing. North Carolina lost by 6 points to LSU without 12 starters. They could have had the best defense in the country.
I will say that I am excited that football is going, but I will wait until the first or second week in October to tell you who I think the best team is. Anyone can say Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, those teams are gonna be in the discussion every year.
If I had to choose an underdog, I like Nebraska. They want to make a statement before they head off to the big 10.
With all that being said, thank goodness meaningful football is being played. Saturdays will not be the same for about 5 more months.
It is great that at midnight, you can turn on ESPN and watch Hawaii against someone.
As a sport's fan, this is the best time of year. I hope all your teams win, except when they play Texas Tech.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out,
John Conner
So what did we learn in week 1? Absolutely nothing.
We saw that Florida can't snap the ball from the center to the quarterback. We saw that Alabama can win a game without the defending Heisman trophy winner in Mark Ingram. We saw Jacksonville St. upset Ole Miss. Lets just hope that Larry didn't pick them to win a national championship, again.
Oklahoma had all they could handle. Texas toyed with Rice before ending them. Texas A&M, started strong, and Baylor is now thinking bowl game again with Robert Griffin back.
I am happy Texas Tech won, but Tommy Tuberville better have a better game plan coming up. I was happy that Ruffin McNeil, Tech's old defensive coordinator, got a win in his first game at East Carolina.
All that being said, we still know nothing. North Carolina lost by 6 points to LSU without 12 starters. They could have had the best defense in the country.
I will say that I am excited that football is going, but I will wait until the first or second week in October to tell you who I think the best team is. Anyone can say Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, those teams are gonna be in the discussion every year.
If I had to choose an underdog, I like Nebraska. They want to make a statement before they head off to the big 10.
With all that being said, thank goodness meaningful football is being played. Saturdays will not be the same for about 5 more months.
It is great that at midnight, you can turn on ESPN and watch Hawaii against someone.
As a sport's fan, this is the best time of year. I hope all your teams win, except when they play Texas Tech.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out,
John Conner
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Overreaction
The Dallas Cowboys have been mediocre at best during the preseason. Yet, on every radio show and every newspaper people are saying that the Cowboys are done, they are overrated, and they just aren't that good.
Really?
What has the record been for the Indianapolis Colts in the preseason? They win 0 to 1 game every year, yet, when the season is over, they have at least 12 wins.
Teams like the Browns, Lions, and Buccaneers needs wins in the preseason. Teams that are breaking in a new quarterback or a coach, they need to win.
Teams like the Colts, Patriots, and yes, the Cowboys, the preseason is more of a chance for players to hit somebody on another team.
I am not saying that they should not execute better, but the same guys that ran a vanilla offense and a non blitzing defense WILL play much better September 12th against the Redskins.
It is the freaking preseason. You should be excited that football is being played, not whining about Tony Romo. Every other sports talk station is saying Romo stinks and that Phillips should be fired, but I say, if you are gonna overreact in a preseason game, then you must sit in timeout for 1 regular season game.
It is not as if Romo is 4 for 17 for 22 yards and 3 interceptions. He is playing a vanilla offense. They are making sure that they do not show their opponents anything.
But I will say this much, this is the ultimate overreaction city, especially when it comes to the Cowboys.
Just remember, it is the preseason. If this lasts into the regular season, I will be the first to rip the team and Wade Phillips, but right now...RELAX.
As always, I would love to get your input. Email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace Out, John Conner
Really?
What has the record been for the Indianapolis Colts in the preseason? They win 0 to 1 game every year, yet, when the season is over, they have at least 12 wins.
Teams like the Browns, Lions, and Buccaneers needs wins in the preseason. Teams that are breaking in a new quarterback or a coach, they need to win.
Teams like the Colts, Patriots, and yes, the Cowboys, the preseason is more of a chance for players to hit somebody on another team.
I am not saying that they should not execute better, but the same guys that ran a vanilla offense and a non blitzing defense WILL play much better September 12th against the Redskins.
It is the freaking preseason. You should be excited that football is being played, not whining about Tony Romo. Every other sports talk station is saying Romo stinks and that Phillips should be fired, but I say, if you are gonna overreact in a preseason game, then you must sit in timeout for 1 regular season game.
It is not as if Romo is 4 for 17 for 22 yards and 3 interceptions. He is playing a vanilla offense. They are making sure that they do not show their opponents anything.
But I will say this much, this is the ultimate overreaction city, especially when it comes to the Cowboys.
Just remember, it is the preseason. If this lasts into the regular season, I will be the first to rip the team and Wade Phillips, but right now...RELAX.
As always, I would love to get your input. Email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace Out, John Conner
Monday, August 23, 2010
FOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOTBALLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
I am so excited right now. This is the time of year when every team thinks they are going to the Super Bowl.
Every fan thinks his team will work out the kinks from the preseason to challenge for the Super Bowl.
But there is one reason, fans like myself and others are really, really excited.
For most of us, our Fantasy Football draft is coming up, and we all think this is the year for bragging rights and possibly cash.
So for all you out there that play fantasy football, Good luck. I hope you win, unless you play in my league, and then I hope I kick your ASS.
I would love to hear form you, especially if you have fantasy advice. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Every fan thinks his team will work out the kinks from the preseason to challenge for the Super Bowl.
But there is one reason, fans like myself and others are really, really excited.
For most of us, our Fantasy Football draft is coming up, and we all think this is the year for bragging rights and possibly cash.
So for all you out there that play fantasy football, Good luck. I hope you win, unless you play in my league, and then I hope I kick your ASS.
I would love to hear form you, especially if you have fantasy advice. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Expectations
We are now a couple of preseason games into the 2010 NFL season, and we can now make some predictions.
I still think the Dallas Cowboys are the cream of the crop in the NFC east division. I think they have what it takes to make a long run in the playoffs. I do think they have a realistic shot to make the Super Bowl.
This is the exact same opinion I had at the end of last season. So what has changed? Nothing. I am a Dallas Cowboys' fan. We always think this is the year. Even when Dave Campo was guiding the team to 3 consecutive 5-11 seasons, we always thought that next year was the year we turned things around.
The main difference between now and the Campo years is the fact that this team has tasted a little success.
Coming off a year in which they won the division, beat Philly in a playoff game, and the two teams ahead of them in the NFC, Minnesota (Favre back, Favre retiring and New Orleans, already beat them in New Orleans) makes us feel pretty good about their chances.
On top of that, you add the biggest play maker in the draft in Dez Bryant and another linebacker from Linebacker (Penn St.) in Sean Lee, and this team looks better and better.
I hate it when Jerry comes out and says he expects the team to play at home in the Super Bowl, and then I realize he says that every year. This year, the game just happens to be at JerryWorld.
So, do I really believe the Cowboys are going to the Super Bowl? Yes
I am a homer? Hell YES
I am honest with myself and at the same time am huge homer. That being said, if the Cowboys don't win the Super Bowl, I will be hugely disappointed.
As always, let me hear from you. Send an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
I still think the Dallas Cowboys are the cream of the crop in the NFC east division. I think they have what it takes to make a long run in the playoffs. I do think they have a realistic shot to make the Super Bowl.
This is the exact same opinion I had at the end of last season. So what has changed? Nothing. I am a Dallas Cowboys' fan. We always think this is the year. Even when Dave Campo was guiding the team to 3 consecutive 5-11 seasons, we always thought that next year was the year we turned things around.
The main difference between now and the Campo years is the fact that this team has tasted a little success.
Coming off a year in which they won the division, beat Philly in a playoff game, and the two teams ahead of them in the NFC, Minnesota (Favre back, Favre retiring and New Orleans, already beat them in New Orleans) makes us feel pretty good about their chances.
On top of that, you add the biggest play maker in the draft in Dez Bryant and another linebacker from Linebacker (Penn St.) in Sean Lee, and this team looks better and better.
I hate it when Jerry comes out and says he expects the team to play at home in the Super Bowl, and then I realize he says that every year. This year, the game just happens to be at JerryWorld.
So, do I really believe the Cowboys are going to the Super Bowl? Yes
I am a homer? Hell YES
I am honest with myself and at the same time am huge homer. That being said, if the Cowboys don't win the Super Bowl, I will be hugely disappointed.
As always, let me hear from you. Send an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Cowboys of the 90s
With Emmitt Smith getting into the NFL Hall of Fame, I started wondering if that was going to be the last Cowboy for the dynasty of the 1990s.
Looking at the guys that have a shot, I have narrowed it down to 4 guys I think deserve the honor.
First, eligible next season is Deion Sanders. He was the ultimate shut down cornerback. He was only on the team for the 1995 championship team, but he played defense, offense, returned punts, and returned kicks. He was a threat to score every time he touched the football. I think is a lock.
Next, is Larry Allen. He was by far the most dominant offensive lineman in the 90s. He was a Pro-Bowler at guard and at tackle. He was known for his legendary strength( once bench pressed 700lbs.) and was also known for not saying much. He induction speech will last about 4 minutes. He is a lock.
Next, is Darren Woodson. He is the all-time leader in tackles for the Dallas Cowboys. Take that in for a moment. One of the most storied teams in sports history, and he is the leading tackler. Just as long as it took to find a replacement for Troy Aikman, it has been even longer trying to find a replacement for Woodson. He is 50-50.
My final player is Charles Haley. He has been on 5 Super Bowl teams. He changed the entire defense for the Cowboys. He was the first guy offenses game planned for. I believe he will eventually get it.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Looking at the guys that have a shot, I have narrowed it down to 4 guys I think deserve the honor.
First, eligible next season is Deion Sanders. He was the ultimate shut down cornerback. He was only on the team for the 1995 championship team, but he played defense, offense, returned punts, and returned kicks. He was a threat to score every time he touched the football. I think is a lock.
Next, is Larry Allen. He was by far the most dominant offensive lineman in the 90s. He was a Pro-Bowler at guard and at tackle. He was known for his legendary strength( once bench pressed 700lbs.) and was also known for not saying much. He induction speech will last about 4 minutes. He is a lock.
Next, is Darren Woodson. He is the all-time leader in tackles for the Dallas Cowboys. Take that in for a moment. One of the most storied teams in sports history, and he is the leading tackler. Just as long as it took to find a replacement for Troy Aikman, it has been even longer trying to find a replacement for Woodson. He is 50-50.
My final player is Charles Haley. He has been on 5 Super Bowl teams. He changed the entire defense for the Cowboys. He was the first guy offenses game planned for. I believe he will eventually get it.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Karma
Now I do not wish anything bad to any player, especially ones on my teams, but doesn't seem a little like KARMA for Dez Bryant. In no way whatsoever do I side with Roy Williams, but as a rookie there is certain things you are expected to do. You are gonna carry the veteran's pads. You will probably get to pick up a dinner tab or two. You will have to wear an outrageous outfit on the plane. These things happen to rookies. It always has, and will continue.
One way to get on the bad side of the veterans is by refusing to do these things. This is just something all rookies go through. Troy, Emmitt, Micheal, Larry Allen, and so on and so forth did it.
The veterans are not trying to punk you or disrespect you. They are letting you know you are now in the NFL.
I have no problem with this at all. It could be worse. Bill Parcells made all the rookies bring him water during breaks. Carrying pads is not that big of a deal. It was made a big deal by Bryant's refusal.
Now, Bryant injured his ankle. Are the two related? Probably not. But it is fun to speculate. If Dez would have carried Roy's pads, maybe he is not hurt.
Karma goes a long way, and I think Dez got his first taste of the NFL's version of Karma.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace. John Conner
One way to get on the bad side of the veterans is by refusing to do these things. This is just something all rookies go through. Troy, Emmitt, Micheal, Larry Allen, and so on and so forth did it.
The veterans are not trying to punk you or disrespect you. They are letting you know you are now in the NFL.
I have no problem with this at all. It could be worse. Bill Parcells made all the rookies bring him water during breaks. Carrying pads is not that big of a deal. It was made a big deal by Bryant's refusal.
Now, Bryant injured his ankle. Are the two related? Probably not. But it is fun to speculate. If Dez would have carried Roy's pads, maybe he is not hurt.
Karma goes a long way, and I think Dez got his first taste of the NFL's version of Karma.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send me an email at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace. John Conner
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Boot Feldman
Chris Davis and Taylor Teagarden could not hit. They got sent to the minors. Salty had the yips and could not hit. Sent to the minors. Rich Harden could not throw strikes. Phantom injury to the disabled list. Matt Harrison could not throw strikes. Sent to the minors, and now the bullpen.
I bring this up because Scott Feldman has not thrown strikes, and when he does, the ball goes a long way. He is 5-9 with a 5.46 ERA. He has given up 154 hits in 119 innings.
Why is he getting a pass? It is almost comical listening to the broadcast and hearing them start after start saying, "Hopefully Scott turns it around this start." With Derek Holland getting close to a return, the Texas Rangers have a big decision to make. Do they send Feldman to the minors, or the bullpen? They have been adamant that the top 25 players in the organization are going to be at the big league level. They obviously want the top 12 pitchers here, and right now, Feldman is not one of the top 12.
Eventually, Holland and Tanner Scheppers will be up, and they have to decide who goes down. Feldman has a future with this team given his contract, but management has shown with Harden that contracts do not give you a spot on the team.
This team is special. They are winning with pitching, and Feldman is not contributing to that at all. With Cliff Lee, Colby Lewis, CJ Wilson and Tommy Hunter pitching so well, you would like for the 5th starter to be reliable.
I am all for Holland to take his spot, but I don't make those decisions.
Rangers' management has been very consistent. I you don't perform, you don't have a spot. Feldman, I would start looking for an apartment in Oklahoma City or Frisco.
As always, I would love to hear from you. You can email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com or call or text the bbsd phone at 469-212-3167.
Peace Out,
John Conner
I bring this up because Scott Feldman has not thrown strikes, and when he does, the ball goes a long way. He is 5-9 with a 5.46 ERA. He has given up 154 hits in 119 innings.
Why is he getting a pass? It is almost comical listening to the broadcast and hearing them start after start saying, "Hopefully Scott turns it around this start." With Derek Holland getting close to a return, the Texas Rangers have a big decision to make. Do they send Feldman to the minors, or the bullpen? They have been adamant that the top 25 players in the organization are going to be at the big league level. They obviously want the top 12 pitchers here, and right now, Feldman is not one of the top 12.
Eventually, Holland and Tanner Scheppers will be up, and they have to decide who goes down. Feldman has a future with this team given his contract, but management has shown with Harden that contracts do not give you a spot on the team.
This team is special. They are winning with pitching, and Feldman is not contributing to that at all. With Cliff Lee, Colby Lewis, CJ Wilson and Tommy Hunter pitching so well, you would like for the 5th starter to be reliable.
I am all for Holland to take his spot, but I don't make those decisions.
Rangers' management has been very consistent. I you don't perform, you don't have a spot. Feldman, I would start looking for an apartment in Oklahoma City or Frisco.
As always, I would love to hear from you. You can email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com or call or text the bbsd phone at 469-212-3167.
Peace Out,
John Conner
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Cuban buying Rangers
I am on the fence as to whether or not I actually want Mark Cuban to buy the Texas Rangers. I really hope that Cuban just decides to back Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan.
We shall see.
Cuban is a hands on owner, but at the same time, he seems to let Donnie Nelson do the basketball side of the Dallas Mavericks. Would Cuban be able to stay out of the way? I am not sure and at the same time, I don't know that I care.
I am seriously getting to the point where I just want this whole thing to be over. Tom Hicks dragged this out, and now the lenders and courts are doing the same thing.
I think Cuban could stay out of the way, and I think he would do whatever it took to be competitive financially. There is no cap in baseball, and I think Cuban would spend. My biggest problem with Cuban would be, will he bring a baseball man in here to run the day to day operations, like a say...Nolan Ryan.
We are witnessing one of the greatest baseball seasons down here, and all the talk is about the ownership. This needs to get done, and quickly.
My ultimate goal, would be to get Nolan, Chuck and Mark on the same page and move from there. It is no coincidence that this team has been successful under Ryan and Jon Daniels. It needs to keep moving in that same direction, whether it is owned by Cuban or me.
Just get it done...NOW!!!
I would love to hear from you, so either email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com or call or text the bbsd phone at 469-212-3167.
Peace, John Conner
We shall see.
Cuban is a hands on owner, but at the same time, he seems to let Donnie Nelson do the basketball side of the Dallas Mavericks. Would Cuban be able to stay out of the way? I am not sure and at the same time, I don't know that I care.
I am seriously getting to the point where I just want this whole thing to be over. Tom Hicks dragged this out, and now the lenders and courts are doing the same thing.
I think Cuban could stay out of the way, and I think he would do whatever it took to be competitive financially. There is no cap in baseball, and I think Cuban would spend. My biggest problem with Cuban would be, will he bring a baseball man in here to run the day to day operations, like a say...Nolan Ryan.
We are witnessing one of the greatest baseball seasons down here, and all the talk is about the ownership. This needs to get done, and quickly.
My ultimate goal, would be to get Nolan, Chuck and Mark on the same page and move from there. It is no coincidence that this team has been successful under Ryan and Jon Daniels. It needs to keep moving in that same direction, whether it is owned by Cuban or me.
Just get it done...NOW!!!
I would love to hear from you, so either email me at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com or call or text the bbsd phone at 469-212-3167.
Peace, John Conner
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Kudos to Jon Daniels
I know it has been written about, talked about and such, but I really don't think Jon Daniels and his crew are getting as much credit as they should. This is the first move they have made in a long while that suggests they are going for it all...NOW.
I have been on the JD fire bandwagon for some time for trading Adrian Gonzalez and John Danks. I have slowly gotten closer to getting off the fire bandwagon after the Mark Texiera trade and the low buy-high reward signings he has made the last couple of off seasons.
Signing Vladamir Guerrero and Colby Lewis were genius. Sure, the Rich Harden signing looks bad, but 1 out of 5 is not bad.
But what he has done the last couple of weeks, without any money, is down right amazing. Getting San Fransisco to pay for Bengie Molina to play here was awesome. He is the type of catcher this pitching staff needs, and he is an upgrade offensively. Then, the Cliff Lee trade was flat out amazing. I will miss Justin Smoak and still thinks he will be a stud in the majors for a long time, but Lee is arguably one of the top 5 pitchers in baseball. And to be honest, I don't think Daniels is through. I still think he will add a right handed hitting first baseball, whether it is Ty Wiggington or Xavier Nady.
I guess I am just in awe right now that the Ranger staff said 3 years ago that 2010 was the year they go for it, and they are. The minor leagues are still stacked with Derek Holland, Tanner Scheppers, Martin Perez, Mitch Moreland and so on and on.
And did I mention that Daniels is doing this with NO MONEY? He is being creative, but most importantly, he is putting a winning ball club out on the field.
A week ago, I was ok going to war with Colby Lewis, CJ Wilson and then whomever. But now, I am ecstatic to go with Cliff Lee, Colby Lewis and CJ Wilson in a playoff series.
It is getting to where now I am looking a playoff match-ups. I haven't done that in 10 years, and whether you want to or not, most of the credit should go to Jon Daniels.
I would love to hear from you. Send me a message at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace
I have been on the JD fire bandwagon for some time for trading Adrian Gonzalez and John Danks. I have slowly gotten closer to getting off the fire bandwagon after the Mark Texiera trade and the low buy-high reward signings he has made the last couple of off seasons.
Signing Vladamir Guerrero and Colby Lewis were genius. Sure, the Rich Harden signing looks bad, but 1 out of 5 is not bad.
But what he has done the last couple of weeks, without any money, is down right amazing. Getting San Fransisco to pay for Bengie Molina to play here was awesome. He is the type of catcher this pitching staff needs, and he is an upgrade offensively. Then, the Cliff Lee trade was flat out amazing. I will miss Justin Smoak and still thinks he will be a stud in the majors for a long time, but Lee is arguably one of the top 5 pitchers in baseball. And to be honest, I don't think Daniels is through. I still think he will add a right handed hitting first baseball, whether it is Ty Wiggington or Xavier Nady.
I guess I am just in awe right now that the Ranger staff said 3 years ago that 2010 was the year they go for it, and they are. The minor leagues are still stacked with Derek Holland, Tanner Scheppers, Martin Perez, Mitch Moreland and so on and on.
And did I mention that Daniels is doing this with NO MONEY? He is being creative, but most importantly, he is putting a winning ball club out on the field.
A week ago, I was ok going to war with Colby Lewis, CJ Wilson and then whomever. But now, I am ecstatic to go with Cliff Lee, Colby Lewis and CJ Wilson in a playoff series.
It is getting to where now I am looking a playoff match-ups. I haven't done that in 10 years, and whether you want to or not, most of the credit should go to Jon Daniels.
I would love to hear from you. Send me a message at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The End of an Icon
Mike Modano has been told that he is no longer welcome as a player, but would be welcomed back if he wants to go into management. There is only one problem: Modano can still play.
He is not the 50 goal scorer he was in the early 90s, but he is the perfect 3rd line center. He plays solid defense, and he can score.
I get it. The Dallas Stars are trying to get younger and are working on a budget. My main question is, how do you market this team? They are gonna stink, and they need to rebuild, and are on a budget(thanks again Tom Hicks). But Mike Modano has been the face on the franchise, and sold hockey in this football town. Now, with the exception of the Cowboys, The Stars fans are the most loyal.
But if Modano thinks he can still play, then why not let him play here. How awkward was it so see Tony Dorsett in a Bronco's uniform, or even Emmitt Smith in a Cardinal's uniform. I will not like the site of Modano wearing a Red Wing's sweater, or a Capital's sweater.
To put his impact into perspective, if you made a Mount Rushmore of Dallas Sports, who would be on it. Emmitt, Troy, Roger, Dirk and Mike. If you ask 99% of sports' fans in the DFW area to name a Dallas Star, the first name out of their mouth is Mike Modano.
I think the Stars are doing a major injustice the the greatest American born player in NHL history. You could easily market Mike and the young guys. And who better to mentor the young guys than Mike. He could teach them about loyalty, respect, and how to score. The sure fire first ballot Hall of Famer deserves the right to decide when he is done playing and the Dallas Stars should show him the same respect by letting him continue his career here. It was just 3 years ago when Modano took a pay cut so the Stars could sign players. He has done everything the team has ever asked, and you are telling him, " Thanks, but go away."
I think eventually Modano will come back and work in the Stars' front office, but under a new owner, and if he keeps making these crappy decisions, a new GM. Joe, I like you, but this was a bad move on your part.
Mike, I think I speak for every Stars' fan when I say thank you very much for everything you did for this franchise. You played the game the right way, and it was a honor to call you our guy. Good Luck.
As always, if you like it or don't, let me here from you, john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace out.
He is not the 50 goal scorer he was in the early 90s, but he is the perfect 3rd line center. He plays solid defense, and he can score.
I get it. The Dallas Stars are trying to get younger and are working on a budget. My main question is, how do you market this team? They are gonna stink, and they need to rebuild, and are on a budget(thanks again Tom Hicks). But Mike Modano has been the face on the franchise, and sold hockey in this football town. Now, with the exception of the Cowboys, The Stars fans are the most loyal.
But if Modano thinks he can still play, then why not let him play here. How awkward was it so see Tony Dorsett in a Bronco's uniform, or even Emmitt Smith in a Cardinal's uniform. I will not like the site of Modano wearing a Red Wing's sweater, or a Capital's sweater.
To put his impact into perspective, if you made a Mount Rushmore of Dallas Sports, who would be on it. Emmitt, Troy, Roger, Dirk and Mike. If you ask 99% of sports' fans in the DFW area to name a Dallas Star, the first name out of their mouth is Mike Modano.
I think the Stars are doing a major injustice the the greatest American born player in NHL history. You could easily market Mike and the young guys. And who better to mentor the young guys than Mike. He could teach them about loyalty, respect, and how to score. The sure fire first ballot Hall of Famer deserves the right to decide when he is done playing and the Dallas Stars should show him the same respect by letting him continue his career here. It was just 3 years ago when Modano took a pay cut so the Stars could sign players. He has done everything the team has ever asked, and you are telling him, " Thanks, but go away."
I think eventually Modano will come back and work in the Stars' front office, but under a new owner, and if he keeps making these crappy decisions, a new GM. Joe, I like you, but this was a bad move on your part.
Mike, I think I speak for every Stars' fan when I say thank you very much for everything you did for this franchise. You played the game the right way, and it was a honor to call you our guy. Good Luck.
As always, if you like it or don't, let me here from you, john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace out.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Just sign somewhere LeBron
This is one of the most exciting times for sports junkies like myself. We just had the MLB, NBA and NHL drafts, and we are about to start up training camp in the NFL. But, the most important decision that will affect mankind will be made somewhere around July 8th. Why July 8th, because that is the day the NBA players can sign a contract with new teams.
Now, I was being sarcastic about the signing affecting mankind, but that seems like what it has become. After the LeBron summit in which he invited Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson to figure out where everyone was signing, LeBron is still the key. Once he signs, everyone else will follow.
But this is getting ridiculous. Every time I tune in to Sportscenter, or listen to sports talk radio, there is LeBron. He has dinner with Joe Johnson, they must be signing together. It makes no sense to me at all. Don't get me wrong, I love the guy, but this is too much.
LeBron, I get it. You were never recruited, so this is what you want. Great. Awesome. Good luck. But there is no reason to talk about it everyday. Figure out that you and Bosh are going to sign together in Chicago and do it. Just be done with it already.
Like always, I would love to hear from you. Send me something at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace.
Now, I was being sarcastic about the signing affecting mankind, but that seems like what it has become. After the LeBron summit in which he invited Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson to figure out where everyone was signing, LeBron is still the key. Once he signs, everyone else will follow.
But this is getting ridiculous. Every time I tune in to Sportscenter, or listen to sports talk radio, there is LeBron. He has dinner with Joe Johnson, they must be signing together. It makes no sense to me at all. Don't get me wrong, I love the guy, but this is too much.
LeBron, I get it. You were never recruited, so this is what you want. Great. Awesome. Good luck. But there is no reason to talk about it everyday. Figure out that you and Bosh are going to sign together in Chicago and do it. Just be done with it already.
Like always, I would love to hear from you. Send me something at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Peace.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Greatest Ranger Ever?
This past week, Michael Young became the Texas Rangers all-time leader in hits. He passed Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez with his 1748th hit.
It got me thinking. Where exactly does Young fit on the list for greatest Texas Rangers' player of all-time?
Let's make a list: Pudge, Juan Gonzalez, Rafeal Palmeiro, Ruben Sierra, Nolan Ryan, Jim Sundberg, Buddy Bell.
I would put Young ahead of Bell and Sundberg right away. Not only is he great offensively, but defensively as well. Nolan doesn't make the cut because he only played here 4 seasons. Now Pudge, Juan, Sierra, and Raffy put up better numbers, but all 4 have been linked to steroid use.
That leaves Young standing alone. Even if you take out some of the things like steroids, I would probably still take Young.
He brings leadership to a team that has been growing ever since the Alex Rodriguez trade. He shows that he is the ultimate team player by moving positions, not once, but twice. He moved from 2nd base to shortstop to accommodate the selfish Alfonso Soriano. He then moved from shortstop to 3rd base for Elvis Andrus. The move for Soriano pissed me off. It hurt the team defensively. The move for Andrus was handled incorrectly, but was ultimately the right move.
Young has made himself one of the most clutch hitters in baseball, and is one of the most respected players in all of baseball.
I look at it this way: If Michael Young was on the New York Yankees, he would be a national hero, and a World Series champ and making about $20 million a year. In other words, he would be Derek Jeter.
That being said, I think Michael Young is hands down the best Ranger right now and of all-time, and the younger players coming up, have a great role model to look up to.
I almost feel like the Rangers should send the Toronto Blue Jays a thank you note after every game for giving us Michael Young for Esteban Loaiza.
I can't wait to see Michael Young go in the Hall of Fame, wearing a Texas Rangers' hat. He is a true baseball player, and someone I am proud to be a fan of.
Please send any feedback to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
It got me thinking. Where exactly does Young fit on the list for greatest Texas Rangers' player of all-time?
Let's make a list: Pudge, Juan Gonzalez, Rafeal Palmeiro, Ruben Sierra, Nolan Ryan, Jim Sundberg, Buddy Bell.
I would put Young ahead of Bell and Sundberg right away. Not only is he great offensively, but defensively as well. Nolan doesn't make the cut because he only played here 4 seasons. Now Pudge, Juan, Sierra, and Raffy put up better numbers, but all 4 have been linked to steroid use.
That leaves Young standing alone. Even if you take out some of the things like steroids, I would probably still take Young.
He brings leadership to a team that has been growing ever since the Alex Rodriguez trade. He shows that he is the ultimate team player by moving positions, not once, but twice. He moved from 2nd base to shortstop to accommodate the selfish Alfonso Soriano. He then moved from shortstop to 3rd base for Elvis Andrus. The move for Soriano pissed me off. It hurt the team defensively. The move for Andrus was handled incorrectly, but was ultimately the right move.
Young has made himself one of the most clutch hitters in baseball, and is one of the most respected players in all of baseball.
I look at it this way: If Michael Young was on the New York Yankees, he would be a national hero, and a World Series champ and making about $20 million a year. In other words, he would be Derek Jeter.
That being said, I think Michael Young is hands down the best Ranger right now and of all-time, and the younger players coming up, have a great role model to look up to.
I almost feel like the Rangers should send the Toronto Blue Jays a thank you note after every game for giving us Michael Young for Esteban Loaiza.
I can't wait to see Michael Young go in the Hall of Fame, wearing a Texas Rangers' hat. He is a true baseball player, and someone I am proud to be a fan of.
Please send any feedback to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
2010 NBA Finals = Boring
The 2010 version of the NBA Finals can be summed up in one word...BORING.
The story lines that the media is trying to create just are not there. The one that I hear the most is, for Kobe to be considered one of the All-Time Laker greats, he has to beat Boston. So let me get this straight, Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain are not Laker greats. They only won one title and it was against the New York Knicks. That makes no sense to me whatsoever.
Kobe Bryant has 4 rings. If he wins this year, he gets his 5th, which would put him on par with Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It doesn't matter who you beat as long as you are considered the champs.
But, that is what this series has come to. There are no story lines. This is not the 1980s. Nobody really cares about teams anymore.
The NBA has become all about the players. I don't have a problem with that, but it makes for a boring finals. If each team had a marquee player, then it would be all good.
If it was LeBron vs. Kobe, then we have something. What about Dwight vs. Gasol? I would watch. Even, Nash vs. LeBron. It would be exciting.
The best thing about the NBA is also its biggest flaw.
Back in the 1980s, everyone had their team. People loved the Boston Celtics and LA Lakers. Later in the decade, it was the Detroit Bad Boys, and the Chicago Bulls.
Even in the 1990s, you had the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls and Houston Rockets. They were all teams. They were not individuals.
When you think of Cleveland you think LeBron. Miami equals D-Wade. Dallas - Dirk. Lakers - Kobe. Denver - Carmelo.
This has become a superstar driven league, and when one of the teams doesn't have a true superstar...you get this year.
Don't get me wrong, I love Boston because they play as a team. There is no one guy that does it all. Rajon Rondo will be there in a year or two, but not right now.
I just miss following teams, and the fact that you knew everyone on the team you followed. Down here in Dallas, I know I am one of the few guys that could name the entire roster. Most people can name Dirk and Kidd, and that is about it.
I really want the NBA to go back to a team first mentality, but I am afraid that just is not going to happen.
Bottom line, nobody outside of Boston and Los Angeles really cares who wins this series. That includes me.
Peace out. John Conner
As always, I would love your feedback. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
The story lines that the media is trying to create just are not there. The one that I hear the most is, for Kobe to be considered one of the All-Time Laker greats, he has to beat Boston. So let me get this straight, Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain are not Laker greats. They only won one title and it was against the New York Knicks. That makes no sense to me whatsoever.
Kobe Bryant has 4 rings. If he wins this year, he gets his 5th, which would put him on par with Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It doesn't matter who you beat as long as you are considered the champs.
But, that is what this series has come to. There are no story lines. This is not the 1980s. Nobody really cares about teams anymore.
The NBA has become all about the players. I don't have a problem with that, but it makes for a boring finals. If each team had a marquee player, then it would be all good.
If it was LeBron vs. Kobe, then we have something. What about Dwight vs. Gasol? I would watch. Even, Nash vs. LeBron. It would be exciting.
The best thing about the NBA is also its biggest flaw.
Back in the 1980s, everyone had their team. People loved the Boston Celtics and LA Lakers. Later in the decade, it was the Detroit Bad Boys, and the Chicago Bulls.
Even in the 1990s, you had the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls and Houston Rockets. They were all teams. They were not individuals.
When you think of Cleveland you think LeBron. Miami equals D-Wade. Dallas - Dirk. Lakers - Kobe. Denver - Carmelo.
This has become a superstar driven league, and when one of the teams doesn't have a true superstar...you get this year.
Don't get me wrong, I love Boston because they play as a team. There is no one guy that does it all. Rajon Rondo will be there in a year or two, but not right now.
I just miss following teams, and the fact that you knew everyone on the team you followed. Down here in Dallas, I know I am one of the few guys that could name the entire roster. Most people can name Dirk and Kidd, and that is about it.
I really want the NBA to go back to a team first mentality, but I am afraid that just is not going to happen.
Bottom line, nobody outside of Boston and Los Angeles really cares who wins this series. That includes me.
Peace out. John Conner
As always, I would love your feedback. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Sunday, June 6, 2010
WTF Big 12
I am a little confused with all the maneuvering within the college football landscape for one reason and one reason only; Why isn't the Big 12 looking to add teams rather than subtract teams?
From the beginning of the 2000-01 college football season, the Big 12 has had a team in the BCS National Championship game 7 times. You would think that would give the conference a little pull.
When the broadcasters and sports experts talk about power conferences in football, it is the SEC and the Big 12. I would think the Big 12 would be adding to the conference instead.
And I can think of 3 teams that I would go after first. You would need to add 2 teams to the North division and 2 teams to the South division. The South division would be easy. TCU makes the most sense. It was with the South teams in the Southwest conference, and already has established itself as a football power. The other team is Arkansas. They were better suited here, and had a great rivalry with Texas. It just makes sense. The North is a little more difficult, but I would start with Boise St. They want to play with the big boys and now the could. The other options could be BYU , New Mexico or Colorado St., or something of that nature. If they felt like invading other conferences, they could go after a Big 10 team, or even a couple of Big East teams. The possibilities are endless.
With Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska as football royalty, I don't understand why they are moving. The Big 12 should be dictating where the college football landscape goes.
If they add TCU, Arkansas, Boise St and say BYU they become the best football conference in the country, and stay in the conversation for basketball and baseball.
Maybe I am naive. Maybe Texas wants to leave, but it just seems to make more sense for them to add. It seems that this week, Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe has given Missouri and Nebraska until next week to decide if they are staying or not. If they do, surprise the rest of college football, and send invitations to TCU, Arkansas, Boise St, and BYU, and make this the Big 16.
Texas wants to be the top dog in college football, well the best way to do that is to win the toughest conference. Right now, that is the SEC, but the additions of those 4 teams, either puts you on par, or even a notch above them.
I just can't seem to figure out why they would even consider moving, especially to the PAC 10. If you throw out USC, it is a mediocre conference. Even USC may go down a little bit without Pete Carroll, and the fact that the Reggie Bush fiasco just won't go away.
Bottom line, if I am the Big 12, I start being the aggressor. Go get the teams you want, and build the mega conference. Don't sit around and let lesser conferences pick you apart so they can get some recognition.
Here is how it would look:
North - Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Kansas State, Iowa State, Colorado, Boise St, BYU
South - Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Baylor, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St, Arkansas, TCU
That is dominant!
By 2012, I want this to be done, and let there be no doubt which conference is the dominant football conference...The BIG 16.
Thanks, and as always, if you have a question, comment, or want to chat, send me anything to:
john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
From the beginning of the 2000-01 college football season, the Big 12 has had a team in the BCS National Championship game 7 times. You would think that would give the conference a little pull.
When the broadcasters and sports experts talk about power conferences in football, it is the SEC and the Big 12. I would think the Big 12 would be adding to the conference instead.
And I can think of 3 teams that I would go after first. You would need to add 2 teams to the North division and 2 teams to the South division. The South division would be easy. TCU makes the most sense. It was with the South teams in the Southwest conference, and already has established itself as a football power. The other team is Arkansas. They were better suited here, and had a great rivalry with Texas. It just makes sense. The North is a little more difficult, but I would start with Boise St. They want to play with the big boys and now the could. The other options could be BYU , New Mexico or Colorado St., or something of that nature. If they felt like invading other conferences, they could go after a Big 10 team, or even a couple of Big East teams. The possibilities are endless.
With Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska as football royalty, I don't understand why they are moving. The Big 12 should be dictating where the college football landscape goes.
If they add TCU, Arkansas, Boise St and say BYU they become the best football conference in the country, and stay in the conversation for basketball and baseball.
Maybe I am naive. Maybe Texas wants to leave, but it just seems to make more sense for them to add. It seems that this week, Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe has given Missouri and Nebraska until next week to decide if they are staying or not. If they do, surprise the rest of college football, and send invitations to TCU, Arkansas, Boise St, and BYU, and make this the Big 16.
Texas wants to be the top dog in college football, well the best way to do that is to win the toughest conference. Right now, that is the SEC, but the additions of those 4 teams, either puts you on par, or even a notch above them.
I just can't seem to figure out why they would even consider moving, especially to the PAC 10. If you throw out USC, it is a mediocre conference. Even USC may go down a little bit without Pete Carroll, and the fact that the Reggie Bush fiasco just won't go away.
Bottom line, if I am the Big 12, I start being the aggressor. Go get the teams you want, and build the mega conference. Don't sit around and let lesser conferences pick you apart so they can get some recognition.
Here is how it would look:
North - Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Kansas State, Iowa State, Colorado, Boise St, BYU
South - Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Baylor, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St, Arkansas, TCU
That is dominant!
By 2012, I want this to be done, and let there be no doubt which conference is the dominant football conference...The BIG 16.
Thanks, and as always, if you have a question, comment, or want to chat, send me anything to:
john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Shut up and PLAY
I would like to see the following players in my office as soon as possible: Patrick Crayton, Chris Johnson and Albert Haynseworth.
I have 2 thought on the situations you are in and you guys are not going to like either.
Number 1, you are under contract to your respective teams. Patrick, I understand your dilemma. As of right now, it looks as if you are the number 4 receiver at best. But $2 million is still $2 million. Mr. Johnson, you ran for 2000 yards, and can be considered the top running back in football, or at least in the top 3. Albert, you wanted to be the highest paid defenseman, and you are.
So let me get this straight. Patrick wants more playing time, Chris wants more money, and Albert wants a new team. I have 1 answer for all three of you.
SHUT UP!! SHUT UP !! SHUT UP!! and play.
Let me ask the 3 of you a question. Patrick, do you remember dropping 2 critical passes against the Giants that would have sent the Cowboys to the second round of the playoffs? Do you remember getting a shot as a 7th rounder, when nobody else wanted you? I do. Now go play.
Chris, would you be paying Tennessee if you ran for 180 yards? Nope, probably not. You would probably blame the offensive line, just so you would get cut. Oh Albert, you are the highest paid defensive player, right? But you don't like being a nose tackle in a 3-4 defense. Fine, give the Redskins the money back, and go be a tackle in a 4-3 defense somewhere else.
I know and understand why players want to renegotiate a contract. The problem I have is, players only want to do it after a good year. If a player ever went to a team and said, " I played pretty bad last year, and I think you should give me a pay cut," then I might listen to the whining babies. But this is getting retarded. It is almost to the point that I think every professional athlete should have to play on a one year contract. That way, if you perform well, you get more money. If you don't, you get less.
Teams give a player a long term contract so they feel secure and know the player is going to be around for a while. They know they can build with that player. I understand that renegotiating is necessary from time to time, but every year we have certain players that just do it to get in the spotlight.
Patrick, I understand your complaint, and I believe the Cowboys should either trade or cut you. Chris, I think you should be the one of the highest paid running backs in the NFL, but only when your current contract is up. Albert, I have nothing for you. You are the highest paid guy on the team, and the highest non quarterback in the NFL. Just shut your mouth and play football.
The only people that get on my nerves worse that these 3 is rookies. You have proved nothing in the NFL yet, so sign your over priced contract and get into camp.
My second point is, these 3 guys need to take a shot at the real world. If I told my boss I wasn't coming to work until he gave me a raise, he would laugh, and then once he stopped laughing, he would fire my butt. You guys are getting paid the play a game. You are going to make enough money to support your kid's grandkids.
So just play. Stop whining about contracts, or playing time, or anything else. You are lucky to be able to play a game for a living.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Sens an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace. John Conner
I have 2 thought on the situations you are in and you guys are not going to like either.
Number 1, you are under contract to your respective teams. Patrick, I understand your dilemma. As of right now, it looks as if you are the number 4 receiver at best. But $2 million is still $2 million. Mr. Johnson, you ran for 2000 yards, and can be considered the top running back in football, or at least in the top 3. Albert, you wanted to be the highest paid defenseman, and you are.
So let me get this straight. Patrick wants more playing time, Chris wants more money, and Albert wants a new team. I have 1 answer for all three of you.
SHUT UP!! SHUT UP !! SHUT UP!! and play.
Let me ask the 3 of you a question. Patrick, do you remember dropping 2 critical passes against the Giants that would have sent the Cowboys to the second round of the playoffs? Do you remember getting a shot as a 7th rounder, when nobody else wanted you? I do. Now go play.
Chris, would you be paying Tennessee if you ran for 180 yards? Nope, probably not. You would probably blame the offensive line, just so you would get cut. Oh Albert, you are the highest paid defensive player, right? But you don't like being a nose tackle in a 3-4 defense. Fine, give the Redskins the money back, and go be a tackle in a 4-3 defense somewhere else.
I know and understand why players want to renegotiate a contract. The problem I have is, players only want to do it after a good year. If a player ever went to a team and said, " I played pretty bad last year, and I think you should give me a pay cut," then I might listen to the whining babies. But this is getting retarded. It is almost to the point that I think every professional athlete should have to play on a one year contract. That way, if you perform well, you get more money. If you don't, you get less.
Teams give a player a long term contract so they feel secure and know the player is going to be around for a while. They know they can build with that player. I understand that renegotiating is necessary from time to time, but every year we have certain players that just do it to get in the spotlight.
Patrick, I understand your complaint, and I believe the Cowboys should either trade or cut you. Chris, I think you should be the one of the highest paid running backs in the NFL, but only when your current contract is up. Albert, I have nothing for you. You are the highest paid guy on the team, and the highest non quarterback in the NFL. Just shut your mouth and play football.
The only people that get on my nerves worse that these 3 is rookies. You have proved nothing in the NFL yet, so sign your over priced contract and get into camp.
My second point is, these 3 guys need to take a shot at the real world. If I told my boss I wasn't coming to work until he gave me a raise, he would laugh, and then once he stopped laughing, he would fire my butt. You guys are getting paid the play a game. You are going to make enough money to support your kid's grandkids.
So just play. Stop whining about contracts, or playing time, or anything else. You are lucky to be able to play a game for a living.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Sens an email to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace. John Conner
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Mavericks
Can someone please explain to me very slowly what the heck is going on in big D?
Let me get this straight. In a span of 10 hours or so, Mark Cuban is fined $100,000 and Dirk Nowitzki is said to be leaning towards opting out of his contract.
The first part, I understand. Cuban just can't keep his mouth shut. When his team loses in the first round of the playoffs, he almost always does something crazy to take the focus off the team and put it on him. This year, he says that LeBron James will probably want to help Cleveland by doing a sign and trade, so that they can field a team after he is gone. I agree with him 100%. The only problem, LeBron hasn't opted out of his contract yet, so technically, he is still a Cavalier. So what happens? Cuban gets fined for tampering. The only people that are happy is the charity that Cuban is sending another $100,000 to.
Come on Mark. Couldn't you wait until he opted out to talk? Everyone agrees with you, but for crying out loud, make sure the dude is a free agent first.
Sometimes, I think Mark is a little retarded. I mean, just shut up!!!!!!!!!
That being said, Cuban getting fined in not that big of deal.
Well then, what is Mr. Conner? I am so glad you asked.
Dirk Nowitzki has been the face of this franchise for a decade. It is no coincidence that this team started a string of 50 win seasons as soon as Dirk came into his own. He is the team's all-time leader in scoring, rebounding and free throws. He is considered the greatest player ever born outside of the United States.
Now, I understand that he is opting out to give the Mavericks some flexibility, and he has every intention or resigning.
But what if he doesn't?
The Mavericks automatically become the Houston Rockets, only older. They become a team of pretty good players with no superstar. They start battling the lower rungs of the Western Conference for ping pong balls in the draft lottery. They become irrelevant.
So how does the best team in the DFW area make all this news, for all the wrong reasons, when their not even playing? I give Cuban credit for keeping his team in the headlines, but he better get Dirk on board first, before he even thinks about LeBron.
I am pretty sure that Cuban knows all of this, but just in case he didn't take his pill, "Mark, sign the big German."
If he is really dumb enough to let Dirk go, then he won't have to listen to me, he will see it in the revenue not coming in. Who is gonna go see Jason Kidd and Caron Butler? I know. People who go FREE tickets.
So, do the right thing Mark. Get Dirk signed, and then worry about everyone else.
As always, let me hear from you at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Thanks.
Let me get this straight. In a span of 10 hours or so, Mark Cuban is fined $100,000 and Dirk Nowitzki is said to be leaning towards opting out of his contract.
The first part, I understand. Cuban just can't keep his mouth shut. When his team loses in the first round of the playoffs, he almost always does something crazy to take the focus off the team and put it on him. This year, he says that LeBron James will probably want to help Cleveland by doing a sign and trade, so that they can field a team after he is gone. I agree with him 100%. The only problem, LeBron hasn't opted out of his contract yet, so technically, he is still a Cavalier. So what happens? Cuban gets fined for tampering. The only people that are happy is the charity that Cuban is sending another $100,000 to.
Come on Mark. Couldn't you wait until he opted out to talk? Everyone agrees with you, but for crying out loud, make sure the dude is a free agent first.
Sometimes, I think Mark is a little retarded. I mean, just shut up!!!!!!!!!
That being said, Cuban getting fined in not that big of deal.
Well then, what is Mr. Conner? I am so glad you asked.
Dirk Nowitzki has been the face of this franchise for a decade. It is no coincidence that this team started a string of 50 win seasons as soon as Dirk came into his own. He is the team's all-time leader in scoring, rebounding and free throws. He is considered the greatest player ever born outside of the United States.
Now, I understand that he is opting out to give the Mavericks some flexibility, and he has every intention or resigning.
But what if he doesn't?
The Mavericks automatically become the Houston Rockets, only older. They become a team of pretty good players with no superstar. They start battling the lower rungs of the Western Conference for ping pong balls in the draft lottery. They become irrelevant.
So how does the best team in the DFW area make all this news, for all the wrong reasons, when their not even playing? I give Cuban credit for keeping his team in the headlines, but he better get Dirk on board first, before he even thinks about LeBron.
I am pretty sure that Cuban knows all of this, but just in case he didn't take his pill, "Mark, sign the big German."
If he is really dumb enough to let Dirk go, then he won't have to listen to me, he will see it in the revenue not coming in. Who is gonna go see Jason Kidd and Caron Butler? I know. People who go FREE tickets.
So, do the right thing Mark. Get Dirk signed, and then worry about everyone else.
As always, let me hear from you at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Thanks.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Freaking Local Teams
Why is it that every time I get excited about the local professional teams, they lay a big fat freaking egg?
I picked the Dallas Cowboys before the football season started. A lot of that had to do with me being a homer. But as the season progressed, I was getting more and more excited. After they beat The Philadelphia Eagles to end the regular season and then again in the first round of the playoffs, I was on board. I was toting them as the Super Bowl champs.
The next week, they got WAXED by the Minnesota Vikings.
And that was the best team in the area.
Let's continue.
I watched the Dallas Mavericks put together one of the most balanced teams in the regular season. The parts they thought they didn't have, well, they went out and traded for them. After the trade, they went on a 13 game winning streak. Then the struggled, but put it back together to go from 5th in the Western Conference, all the way to 2nd. Once again, I am excited and even pick them to win the West. I knew LeBron would struggle, so I even picked them to win the whole NBA Finals.
Once the playoffs started, it was like every person associated with the team forgot how to play, and they lost in the first round.
And now we get to the Texas Rangers. Last week I touted them as the 1st place Texas Rangers. Once they read my blog, I guess they decided to prove me right once again, as they got swept by the Toronto Blue Jays. It is still early in baseball season, so I will give them the benefit of the doubt.
The point I am trying to make is, every time I gloat or get excited about my team, they smack me right square in the face. I understand that it goes along with being a fan, but for crying out loud, don't kick the crap out of me every time I get excited.
What cracks me up as I write this is, as soon as the Rangers win 2 out of 3 I will be saying the same thing. I admit it. I am a fan, but quit beating me up. Just once, I want my teams to show me half as much love as I show them.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Thanks, John Conner
I picked the Dallas Cowboys before the football season started. A lot of that had to do with me being a homer. But as the season progressed, I was getting more and more excited. After they beat The Philadelphia Eagles to end the regular season and then again in the first round of the playoffs, I was on board. I was toting them as the Super Bowl champs.
The next week, they got WAXED by the Minnesota Vikings.
And that was the best team in the area.
Let's continue.
I watched the Dallas Mavericks put together one of the most balanced teams in the regular season. The parts they thought they didn't have, well, they went out and traded for them. After the trade, they went on a 13 game winning streak. Then the struggled, but put it back together to go from 5th in the Western Conference, all the way to 2nd. Once again, I am excited and even pick them to win the West. I knew LeBron would struggle, so I even picked them to win the whole NBA Finals.
Once the playoffs started, it was like every person associated with the team forgot how to play, and they lost in the first round.
And now we get to the Texas Rangers. Last week I touted them as the 1st place Texas Rangers. Once they read my blog, I guess they decided to prove me right once again, as they got swept by the Toronto Blue Jays. It is still early in baseball season, so I will give them the benefit of the doubt.
The point I am trying to make is, every time I gloat or get excited about my team, they smack me right square in the face. I understand that it goes along with being a fan, but for crying out loud, don't kick the crap out of me every time I get excited.
What cracks me up as I write this is, as soon as the Rangers win 2 out of 3 I will be saying the same thing. I admit it. I am a fan, but quit beating me up. Just once, I want my teams to show me half as much love as I show them.
As always, let me hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Thanks, John Conner
Sunday, May 9, 2010
1st Place Rangers
I know it is early and I know the summer hasn't hit in Texas yet, but I have more than a good feeling about the Texas Rangers. I have to admit it, but I have this feeling every year, and lately, nothing have come from it. But for some reason this feels different, and let me tell you why.
First, All-Star second baseman, Ian Kinsler, has just now started playing. He was out for the first month of the season, and yet Joaquin Arias and Andres Blanco filled in perfectly.
Next, Nelson Cruz, who was leading the league in home runs, gets hurt, and David Murphy fills in nicely. Cruz is due back around the 12th or 13th of this month.
Next, Rich Harden, Scott Feldman and Matt Harrison have not pitch as good as expected. No problem. CJ Wilson is third in the majors in ERA and Colby Lewis is averaging 9.8 strikeouts per 9 innings. Both guys are winning...a lot. And Harrison, is going on the DL, and will be replaced by Derek Holland, who leads AAA is ERA, strikeouts, and WHIP.
Finally, Frankie Franscisco has stunk in the closer's role. Flamethrower Neftali Feliz has been amazing, and remember, he is only 21 years old.
This is why I am so excited. The Rangers have had adversity and have fought through it. The impending sale has not affected the play on the field. It is another bonus to know that Tom Hicks has been run out by MLB, and they have taken over the sale of the team to Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan.
Another thing that can't be overlooked is the fact that this division stinks. Seattle has pitching, but can't score any runs. Oakland is playing far better than their team really is, and should start fading soon. Los Angeles is a mystery. They have good players, but they are playing awful right now.
This team has beat Cliff Lee, Felix Hernandez and Zack Greinke. These are all considered aces, and rightfully so. They have gotten major contributions from guys like Vladamir Guerrero, who Los Angeles said had nothing left, and Matt Treanor, who was just a healthy body in spring training.
This team has no fear, and they know whomever they put out their game to game is gonna perform.
I know it is early, and I know that the hot July and August days haven't been here yet, but their is something about this team this year. I am not saying that they are gonna win the World Series, but I do think they win the division, and then once they are in the playoffs, who knows.
I like the makeup of this team, and I like the reinforcements waiting in AAA. And if the sale ever goes through, they might actually have a little money to go get a player or two.
I can't wait to see how this plays out.
John Conner
As always, let me hear from you. john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
First, All-Star second baseman, Ian Kinsler, has just now started playing. He was out for the first month of the season, and yet Joaquin Arias and Andres Blanco filled in perfectly.
Next, Nelson Cruz, who was leading the league in home runs, gets hurt, and David Murphy fills in nicely. Cruz is due back around the 12th or 13th of this month.
Next, Rich Harden, Scott Feldman and Matt Harrison have not pitch as good as expected. No problem. CJ Wilson is third in the majors in ERA and Colby Lewis is averaging 9.8 strikeouts per 9 innings. Both guys are winning...a lot. And Harrison, is going on the DL, and will be replaced by Derek Holland, who leads AAA is ERA, strikeouts, and WHIP.
Finally, Frankie Franscisco has stunk in the closer's role. Flamethrower Neftali Feliz has been amazing, and remember, he is only 21 years old.
This is why I am so excited. The Rangers have had adversity and have fought through it. The impending sale has not affected the play on the field. It is another bonus to know that Tom Hicks has been run out by MLB, and they have taken over the sale of the team to Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan.
Another thing that can't be overlooked is the fact that this division stinks. Seattle has pitching, but can't score any runs. Oakland is playing far better than their team really is, and should start fading soon. Los Angeles is a mystery. They have good players, but they are playing awful right now.
This team has beat Cliff Lee, Felix Hernandez and Zack Greinke. These are all considered aces, and rightfully so. They have gotten major contributions from guys like Vladamir Guerrero, who Los Angeles said had nothing left, and Matt Treanor, who was just a healthy body in spring training.
This team has no fear, and they know whomever they put out their game to game is gonna perform.
I know it is early, and I know that the hot July and August days haven't been here yet, but their is something about this team this year. I am not saying that they are gonna win the World Series, but I do think they win the division, and then once they are in the playoffs, who knows.
I like the makeup of this team, and I like the reinforcements waiting in AAA. And if the sale ever goes through, they might actually have a little money to go get a player or two.
I can't wait to see how this plays out.
John Conner
As always, let me hear from you. john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
It seems that we have been down this road before. The Dallas Mavericks show us so much potential in reaching the playoffs, and then lay a big fat egg once they are there.
So what should they do to fix it? Who should we as fans blame? Who is gonna be here next year?
Lets start with the blame game. Everyone named Dirk or Roddy can sit down. Everyone else, well, you all get to take some of the blame.
Lets start with the roster and head coach:
Rick Carlisle - I am on board with your philosophy and coaching, but benching Roddy B in favor of Jason Terry cost us the series. Play the young man often.
Jason Kidd - Totally got outplayed by not only Tony Parker, but also George Hill. His age is catching up, and now past him. He is good, but not for a championship team
Jason Terry - Where did his shot go. If you find it call 214-go mavs immediately. He was a non factor
Caron Butler - Great in game 5, and pretty good in game 6. Games 1-4, not a lot. The toughness he was supposed to bring on defense sure would have been nice to see against Ginobli.
JJ Barea - I can stand this dude. He thinks he has to take the game over every time he is in the game. Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.
Shawn Marion - Never got going in the regular season or playoffs. I think he is out of gas.
Erick Dampier - The only good thing about him, is the Mavericks can use his contract this summer to upgrade the roster.
Brendon Haywood - Was good to even great at times, but Tim Duncan did what he wanted. But solid overall.
Eduardo Najera - Hustle player who has developed an outside shot, but just got over matched down low.
DeShawn Stevenson - I thought Carlisle would put him on Ginobli, but he very rarely got off the bench. Not really his fault
Matt Carroll - Has the best job in basketball. Getting 4 million a year to sit on the pine.
Dirk and Roddy B - played as best as they could, but got no help.
So what do you do?
A lot of the players that failed in the playoffs have no trade value and contracts so big that nobody else wants them either. Dirk and Roddy are not going anywhere. I would keep Haywood, and then after that, I could care less.
So what do they go after?
With Dampier's expiring non guaranteed contract, Donnie Nelson and Mark Cuban have some flexibility. Are they able to turn that into Chris Bosh or Dwayne Wade, or Joe Johnson, who knows? But I would not bet against them.
This team is the oldest team in the league and the only team in NBA history to lose in the first round of the playoffs as a number1 and number 2 seed.
The biggest question is, do you keep the team together and win 50 games again and lose in first round again, or do you rebuild?
Just look at the western conference. Oklahoma City is only getting better, Portland and Houston are getting healthy, and Phoenix, Denver, LA Lakers,Utah, and San Antonio are not going anywhere.
My response: get the same company that blew up Texas Stadium over to Mavericks Headquarters. While Dirk is in Germany and Roddy B in France, blow it up.
I just don't know if that is the road they will choose.
As a long standing Maverick's fan, I can take it if we stink for a season or two if I know we are moving in the right direction. Right now, we are stuck in the mud. Changes need to be made, and soon. Dirk's window is closing, and if the upper management doesn't upgrade the youth and talent on this roster, Dirk may just go to another team. As loyal as he is, he wants a championship, and in sports, that is the bottom line.
Whether you like it or not, let me hear from you at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Thanks.
So what should they do to fix it? Who should we as fans blame? Who is gonna be here next year?
Lets start with the blame game. Everyone named Dirk or Roddy can sit down. Everyone else, well, you all get to take some of the blame.
Lets start with the roster and head coach:
Rick Carlisle - I am on board with your philosophy and coaching, but benching Roddy B in favor of Jason Terry cost us the series. Play the young man often.
Jason Kidd - Totally got outplayed by not only Tony Parker, but also George Hill. His age is catching up, and now past him. He is good, but not for a championship team
Jason Terry - Where did his shot go. If you find it call 214-go mavs immediately. He was a non factor
Caron Butler - Great in game 5, and pretty good in game 6. Games 1-4, not a lot. The toughness he was supposed to bring on defense sure would have been nice to see against Ginobli.
JJ Barea - I can stand this dude. He thinks he has to take the game over every time he is in the game. Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.
Shawn Marion - Never got going in the regular season or playoffs. I think he is out of gas.
Erick Dampier - The only good thing about him, is the Mavericks can use his contract this summer to upgrade the roster.
Brendon Haywood - Was good to even great at times, but Tim Duncan did what he wanted. But solid overall.
Eduardo Najera - Hustle player who has developed an outside shot, but just got over matched down low.
DeShawn Stevenson - I thought Carlisle would put him on Ginobli, but he very rarely got off the bench. Not really his fault
Matt Carroll - Has the best job in basketball. Getting 4 million a year to sit on the pine.
Dirk and Roddy B - played as best as they could, but got no help.
So what do you do?
A lot of the players that failed in the playoffs have no trade value and contracts so big that nobody else wants them either. Dirk and Roddy are not going anywhere. I would keep Haywood, and then after that, I could care less.
So what do they go after?
With Dampier's expiring non guaranteed contract, Donnie Nelson and Mark Cuban have some flexibility. Are they able to turn that into Chris Bosh or Dwayne Wade, or Joe Johnson, who knows? But I would not bet against them.
This team is the oldest team in the league and the only team in NBA history to lose in the first round of the playoffs as a number1 and number 2 seed.
The biggest question is, do you keep the team together and win 50 games again and lose in first round again, or do you rebuild?
Just look at the western conference. Oklahoma City is only getting better, Portland and Houston are getting healthy, and Phoenix, Denver, LA Lakers,Utah, and San Antonio are not going anywhere.
My response: get the same company that blew up Texas Stadium over to Mavericks Headquarters. While Dirk is in Germany and Roddy B in France, blow it up.
I just don't know if that is the road they will choose.
As a long standing Maverick's fan, I can take it if we stink for a season or two if I know we are moving in the right direction. Right now, we are stuck in the mud. Changes need to be made, and soon. Dirk's window is closing, and if the upper management doesn't upgrade the youth and talent on this roster, Dirk may just go to another team. As loyal as he is, he wants a championship, and in sports, that is the bottom line.
Whether you like it or not, let me hear from you at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Thanks.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Jerry Jones The IDIOT
I completely understand with the draft fast approaching that Jerry Jones needed to do something to get the Cowboy fans fired up and ready for the first 3 day NFL draft. There is not of a lot of excitement going into this draft for the Cowboys because they have the 27th pick in the first round, and the fact that they only have 6 picks overall.
What does that mean? It is obvious that the Cowboys will trade down and out of the first round. Unless you love the NFL draft, like me, there is no need to tune in Thursday night.
But that is not my problem. My problem is Jerry's mouth. Why? Thank you for asking.
Jerry tends to be a bit more honest and brash the more alcohol he gets in his system. Any Cowboy fan that has been around the last 15 years knows that the Cowboys had a shot to be the only team to win 4 Super Bowls in a row.
Why didn't they?
Because Jerry got drunk and told off Jimmy Johnson, who left the following week.
I put this latest incident in a similar category.
The Dallas Cowboys are on the verge of being a great team, and now this comes out. Bill Parcells was only here because Jerry needed a name coach to get the stadium bill passed. That is a slap in the face of the people of Arlington. I don't know if Jerry would have got it passed or not without Big Bill, but I like to think so. He could have Roger Staubach, Bob Lilly, Troy Aikman, and on and on, get up and talk, and that probably would have done it.
Is Jerry dumb enough to think that who the coach is means jack squat to the fans? NO!!!
As long as the team wins, nobody cares. Look at the 1995 Super Bowl Championship team. Everyone I knew, hated Barry Switzer, but that didn't keep them from cheering for the champs.
I don't know if Jerry is starting to get senile but he is defiantly losing it.
He needs to realize that the fans are Cowboy fans, not Cowboys coaches fans. With the exception of Tom Landry and Jimmy Johnson, the coach of this team has been a joke. But that in itself is another story.
Jerry needs to understand that as long as he puts a winning team on the field, nobody cares what he does out at bars. But with this team getting close, he needs a big can of SHUT THE HELL UP!
Trust your fans Jerry, because they are starting not to trust you.
Thanks,
John Conner
If you have any comments, send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
What does that mean? It is obvious that the Cowboys will trade down and out of the first round. Unless you love the NFL draft, like me, there is no need to tune in Thursday night.
But that is not my problem. My problem is Jerry's mouth. Why? Thank you for asking.
Jerry tends to be a bit more honest and brash the more alcohol he gets in his system. Any Cowboy fan that has been around the last 15 years knows that the Cowboys had a shot to be the only team to win 4 Super Bowls in a row.
Why didn't they?
Because Jerry got drunk and told off Jimmy Johnson, who left the following week.
I put this latest incident in a similar category.
The Dallas Cowboys are on the verge of being a great team, and now this comes out. Bill Parcells was only here because Jerry needed a name coach to get the stadium bill passed. That is a slap in the face of the people of Arlington. I don't know if Jerry would have got it passed or not without Big Bill, but I like to think so. He could have Roger Staubach, Bob Lilly, Troy Aikman, and on and on, get up and talk, and that probably would have done it.
Is Jerry dumb enough to think that who the coach is means jack squat to the fans? NO!!!
As long as the team wins, nobody cares. Look at the 1995 Super Bowl Championship team. Everyone I knew, hated Barry Switzer, but that didn't keep them from cheering for the champs.
I don't know if Jerry is starting to get senile but he is defiantly losing it.
He needs to realize that the fans are Cowboy fans, not Cowboys coaches fans. With the exception of Tom Landry and Jimmy Johnson, the coach of this team has been a joke. But that in itself is another story.
Jerry needs to understand that as long as he puts a winning team on the field, nobody cares what he does out at bars. But with this team getting close, he needs a big can of SHUT THE HELL UP!
Trust your fans Jerry, because they are starting not to trust you.
Thanks,
John Conner
If you have any comments, send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Frankie " F'ing" Fransisco
There are 3 things a major league baseball wants to have to truly consider itself a contender.
First off, a solid rotation. Check
Next, a solid lineup. Check
Finally, a good bullpen with a good closer. Check, No check.
The Texas Rangers starting pitching has been great to start the season. The lineup has been good enough to win, and the bullpen has done its job. That is, until you get to their closer. Frank Fransisco has been a total bust to start the season.
The closer is much more important than a position player. Why? I will tell you.
If Nelson Cruz has a great game the team can still lose. If Cruz has a bad game, the team can still win. If the closer has a bad game, then you lose.
This team has seen Fransisco blow leads in 2 games they had won. CJ Wilson and Matt Harrison pitched great games only to see the closer blow it.
So what should the Rangers do?
The change has already happened. For the time being, Neftali Feliz will be closing games. This move reminds me a lot of what The Red Sox did with Jonathan Papelbon. They both have great stuff, and were supposed to be starters.
With the way the starters have been pitching, Feliz becomes much more valuable in the bullpen.
I am not saying keep him there forever, but right now, the team needs someone it can trust to close games out.
If the offense doesn't trust the closer, then they think that they have to score more runs, which makes them press, and ultimately, they fail.
If they trust the pitching, then you have games like Sunday's, where they relaxed, and put up 9 runs.
I don't think Feliz's future is as the closer. I think that distinction goes to Tanner Scheppers. But right now, if Feliz can start closing out games, this team is gonna go on a run.
I don't think Fransisco is totally useless. He was a solid setup man for Fransisco Cordero. Right now, he has to get his confidence back and help this team win games. If not, I have no use for him.
I will scoot over and let more people jump on the Feliz as closer bandwagon. It is a shot that I don't think he fails at. As for Fransisco, rub some dirt on it and get back in the game.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out.
First off, a solid rotation. Check
Next, a solid lineup. Check
Finally, a good bullpen with a good closer. Check, No check.
The Texas Rangers starting pitching has been great to start the season. The lineup has been good enough to win, and the bullpen has done its job. That is, until you get to their closer. Frank Fransisco has been a total bust to start the season.
The closer is much more important than a position player. Why? I will tell you.
If Nelson Cruz has a great game the team can still lose. If Cruz has a bad game, the team can still win. If the closer has a bad game, then you lose.
This team has seen Fransisco blow leads in 2 games they had won. CJ Wilson and Matt Harrison pitched great games only to see the closer blow it.
So what should the Rangers do?
The change has already happened. For the time being, Neftali Feliz will be closing games. This move reminds me a lot of what The Red Sox did with Jonathan Papelbon. They both have great stuff, and were supposed to be starters.
With the way the starters have been pitching, Feliz becomes much more valuable in the bullpen.
I am not saying keep him there forever, but right now, the team needs someone it can trust to close games out.
If the offense doesn't trust the closer, then they think that they have to score more runs, which makes them press, and ultimately, they fail.
If they trust the pitching, then you have games like Sunday's, where they relaxed, and put up 9 runs.
I don't think Feliz's future is as the closer. I think that distinction goes to Tanner Scheppers. But right now, if Feliz can start closing out games, this team is gonna go on a run.
I don't think Fransisco is totally useless. He was a solid setup man for Fransisco Cordero. Right now, he has to get his confidence back and help this team win games. If not, I have no use for him.
I will scoot over and let more people jump on the Feliz as closer bandwagon. It is a shot that I don't think he fails at. As for Fransisco, rub some dirt on it and get back in the game.
As always, I would love to hear from you. Send it to john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Opening Day
It is that time of year again.
The sun is starting to shine, the temperatures are around 80, and the grass is green.
This is my favorite time of year.
It is OPENING DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nothing is better. You team is still in first place, the ballpark looks brand new, everyone thinks this is the year for their team.
I do have a bit of bad news for some of you though; it is not your year, it is my year.
The Texas Rangers how done just enough to pass the Angels for the Al West division. Seattle could have been a threat, but Cliff Lee is already on the DL, and the pitching in Seattle (beside Felix) stinks.
Everything is going into place.
I know it is odd to say this, but every year that the Rangers have a a good spring, they either stink or just do ok. When their record stinks in the spring, they play great. So don't put too much into the 10-19 record.
Rangers Ballpark in Arlington should be packed tomorrow. A great day, a new year, the smell of hot dogs and peanuts, and in a couple of weeks, a new owner.
This is the year. Nolan Ryan has said this team is gonna succeed, and I believe him. Who isn't?
The team has depth in pitching, the outfield, the infield, and in managers. If Ron Washington struggles, both Clint Hurdle and Jackie Moore have managed in the big leagues. But what am I saying? There will be no struggles.
If any players struggle, there is quality depth in the minors. Not yet veterans, but players like Derek Holland, Kasey Kiker, Mitch Moreland and Justin Smoak are ready to make an impact. If not, you can use those guys and others, to trade for what you do need.
I have not been this excited about Opening day since, well last year, but I believe more this year. I know the first pitch hasn't been thrown, but this team looks and sounds different. They know that if they don't perform, they will be replaced. And they accept that, and believe that is the way it should be. They want to be accountable.
I can't wait until I am out at the ballpark eating nachos and drinking a beer. I want to be a part of what is going to happen this year.
I suggest that you get there as well. This is gonna be special. Don't miss it.
Thanks, as always, and give me a little feedback at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out.
The sun is starting to shine, the temperatures are around 80, and the grass is green.
This is my favorite time of year.
It is OPENING DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nothing is better. You team is still in first place, the ballpark looks brand new, everyone thinks this is the year for their team.
I do have a bit of bad news for some of you though; it is not your year, it is my year.
The Texas Rangers how done just enough to pass the Angels for the Al West division. Seattle could have been a threat, but Cliff Lee is already on the DL, and the pitching in Seattle (beside Felix) stinks.
Everything is going into place.
I know it is odd to say this, but every year that the Rangers have a a good spring, they either stink or just do ok. When their record stinks in the spring, they play great. So don't put too much into the 10-19 record.
Rangers Ballpark in Arlington should be packed tomorrow. A great day, a new year, the smell of hot dogs and peanuts, and in a couple of weeks, a new owner.
This is the year. Nolan Ryan has said this team is gonna succeed, and I believe him. Who isn't?
The team has depth in pitching, the outfield, the infield, and in managers. If Ron Washington struggles, both Clint Hurdle and Jackie Moore have managed in the big leagues. But what am I saying? There will be no struggles.
If any players struggle, there is quality depth in the minors. Not yet veterans, but players like Derek Holland, Kasey Kiker, Mitch Moreland and Justin Smoak are ready to make an impact. If not, you can use those guys and others, to trade for what you do need.
I have not been this excited about Opening day since, well last year, but I believe more this year. I know the first pitch hasn't been thrown, but this team looks and sounds different. They know that if they don't perform, they will be replaced. And they accept that, and believe that is the way it should be. They want to be accountable.
I can't wait until I am out at the ballpark eating nachos and drinking a beer. I want to be a part of what is going to happen this year.
I suggest that you get there as well. This is gonna be special. Don't miss it.
Thanks, as always, and give me a little feedback at john@bigbadsportsdaddy.com.
Peace out.
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