Are Falcons Better Without Vick?

Quarterback, Michael Vick, has a lot of problems and so do the Atlanta Falcons. Vick, nevertheless, can legally beat this case. Without him though, the Falcons may not fare so well. Of all the damming indictments of hanging, electrocuting, and body slamming Pit Bulls, none of charges specifically mention Vick. Most of the allegations target co-defendants, Quanis Phillips, Tony Taylor, also Purnell Peace. Vick is charged with ordering the dogs to be killed, but how do you prove it? The only witnesses are convicted criminals. For example if you were a juror, who would you believe? Even for the Feds, there is no guarantee 12 men and women will agree to convict Vick based on eye witless testimony. Following the Duke Lacrosse case, meanwhile, no one will be in a hurry to send anyone accused of a crime to the gallows without some hard evidence. Vicks' footprints, nevertheless, were all over Coach, Bobby Petrino's, game plan, but now he'll have to settle on journeyman Joey Harrington; he was released last year by the Miami Dolphins. Conversely for all of Vick's highlight reel runs, he was still sacked 47 times , moreover, he consistently failed to connect on passes to wide open receivers. Making matters worse, the Falcons have already lost multi purpose back, Warrick Dunn. On defense, tough, Patrick Kearney, - who is stellar- signed in the off season with Seattle. Dependable linebacker, Demorrio Williams, is hurt; however, he could be ready for the opener against the Minnesota Vikings. Fortunately, Atlanta will regain the services of hardened nose tackle, Grady Jackson, who along with Ronald Coleman will make the Falcons difficult to run on. The linebacking corp remains the team's strong point. Yet with back up quarterback, Matt Shuab, in Houston, the Falcons just don't have the pieces to win this season. I project Atlanta will regress from last year's 7-9 season to 4-12.

Next Week
Carolina Panthers

Seen Michael Vick Lately?

According to talk radio, Vick has been appearing at dog fighting matches all around the country. The Falcons, nevertheless, better be prepared when PETA, and other animal rights activist begin voicing their displeasure at the Atlanta superstar. Admittedly, Vick has his share of problems. For example, he pointed the middle finger at rowdy Falcon fans, he was apprehended by airport security who discovered a water bottle with a hidden compartment reeking of marijuana, a member of his entourage was accused of stealing a Rolex at Atlanta International Airport, and a woman settled a lawsuit after blaming Vick for giving her herpes. Now its dogfighting a brutal diversion illegal in 50 states. According to several eyewitnesses, Vick assisted in electrocuting, hanging and beating dogs to death who were badly injured in the ring. Of course, an eyewitnesses can also be a jailhouse informant willing to offer incriminating testimony in exchange for a lighter sentence.Unfortunately, death row is full of innocent people awaiting execution based on bogus eyewitness accounts. Vick, himself, is blaming his cousin for all the transgressions. Conversely, defenders of Vick are pointing to - of all things- ultimate fighting as an excuse for allowing all this to go away. In another weird dichotomy, the Rev. Al Sharpton has joined with PETA in condemning Vick. HUH? For the National Football League, none of this is good news. Consider, the NFL's lagging attendance in Europe forced the alliance to acknowledge it can't grow the sport beyond its borders. NBA commissioner, David Stern, meanwhile, giggles as the NBA outsells the NFL in merchandise while bragging the NBA also gets way more website hits. Major League Baseball is preparing for a true international World Series, but the National Football League is struggling with attendance issues in Charlotte, and Jacksonville. Either team could be relocating to Los Angeles. It used to be character issues were the sole province of the NBA, but the legal issues of Michael Vick, Pac Man Jones, and Tank Johnson, have smeared a corporation riding the wave of endorsement success. For now, the National Football League would be wise to do an extensive background check on all the players selected in the first two rounds. The league should also make it very clear that abberant behavior can result in expulsion from the League. Vick, nonetheless, will probably beat these charges; despite his lapses, he's not a career criminal, more importantly his lack of an accurate arm could someday force him into a backup role. A place where Vick could no longer blindside the National Football League.

Handicapping The New Orleans Saints

Are you ready for some football? Well in two weeks several teams will open camp, meanwhile I'll be breaking down the season. Despite opening against the Colts in Indy, I'm picking the New Orleans Saints to finally make it to the Super Bowl, however that's contingent on quarterback, Drew Brees, and running back, Reggie Bush, staying healthy. The Saints also have to find an adequate replacement for receiver, Joe Horn. He moved over to Atlanta. The Saints will have to pray their spotty defense holds together, but unlike the past, the South division isn't as competitive; therefore, New Orleans should get a lot wins against division foes. Furthermore, Coach, Sean Payton, is an extraordinary play caller, and with Bush, the Saints should excel on special teams. Nevertheless, first round pick, Robert Meachem from Tennessee, will have to live up to expectations for people to forget about reliable, Joe Horn. The other wide out, Marcus Colston, must continue to get better, but that will not be easy considering the upgrades other divisional foes made this season. As the year progresses, the Saints seem to be emerging as the team to beat in the National Football Conference, moreover New Orleans appears to be the only NFC team capable of competing against vastly superior AFC powers: New England, Indianapolis, Baltimore, and San Diego.

Grading the Saints
Offensive Line (B+)
Offense: (A) *
Special Teams (A+)
Defense (C)
*Led NFL

Projected Finish 12-4


Next Week, I will preview the Atlanta Falcons.

Is Kobe Screwed?

As for accusations of rape, I don't know if Kobe sexually assaulted the woman in Colorado, but I do know he's getting screwed by the Los Angeles Lakers. Talk about being pissed off, Bryant lost it when the Los Angeles Times quoted a Laker insider: evidently, this source blamed Bryant for the Lakers reluctance to extend Oneal's contract. On his website, Kobe said he had absolutely nothing to do with owner, Jerry Buss', decision to resign Oneal. According to Bryant, Buss said Shaq was neither fit, healthy, nor willing to hustle 82 games. More importantly, Kobe said he only agreed to re-up with the Lakers because Buss told him Los Angeles wasn't going to rebuild; instead, they were going to acquire top free agents and contend for the title. Current players, Kawnme Brown, Lamar Odom, and Luke Walton are far from being premiere NBA players. Bryant, furthermore, could not understand why the Lakers passed on Jason Kidd, Baron Davis, and Carlos Boozer...players available during the All Star break. Now Kobe is asking to be traded; after reading the Times, Bryant's decided to shout, "Screw You!" In an interview today on ESPN's, Dan Patrick's show, Bryant was asked if he would consider playing anywhere including an out-post like Atlanta? Bryant replied, "Yes." Some Laker fans think Bryant's outrage is timed to force Buss to hire former General Manager, Jerry West. Such a move would certainly anger current GM, Mitch Kupchak...a close friend of West. Only in Tinseltown can this soap opera continue such an impressive run.

Lightning looking for Jesus

The Tampa Bay Lightning is looking for a miracle goal keeper. In fact, they're looking for Jesus. According to coach, John Tortarella, his team needs a goalie who can stop any puck heading towards the net. Unfortunately, this coach has forgotten that playoff hockey is won by fore checking, stick checking, and cleaning out bodies in front of the net. Far too often, the Lightning defensemen can be seen backpedaling into net minder, Johan Holmquist, sometimes knocking him out of position. With the exception of forward Andre Roy, Vinny Lecavalier, Shane Obrien, and Marty St. Louis, the rest of the players rarely touch the streaking Devils with anything more than a glancing tag. Until Friday when the Devils went into their infamous trap, New Jersey was almost out
shooting Tampa 2-1. With the failure of the defensemen to clear the net, Holmquivst, is having to make saves on his back. Meanwhile, the Devils just skate in unmolested and get good shots on goal. Someone needs to tell Torterella that Jesus isn't coming back to save the Lightning.

Sorry Florida: UCLA Isn't Gator Bait

So here we are primed for college basketball's premier sporting event: the Final Four. The elite game features defending champion Florida against UCLA. Last year, these two teams met in final, but tonight they hook up in the semi finals. For the Bruins, 2006 saw them walk off the court shell shocked by Gator guard, Lee Humphrey's, proficient three point shooting and center, Joakim Noah's, tenacious shot blocking. The Bruins were already hanging their 12Th NCAA championship banner when the roof caved in. For some reason, UCLA uncharacteristically decided to donate a National Championship banner to Florida. Meanwhile, they lost by 25-points. Because of the Bruins' great history also tradition, they never took the Florida Gators for anything more than a football school. This time, the UCLANS are ready to re-establish their great folklore by proving that the most competitive amateur basketball is played on the West Coast. Not only will UCLA beat Florida, the Bruins will blow them out with a winning margin of more than 12-points. This game will not even be close. Goodbye Florida, the Bruins bid you a fond farewell. We hope you stick with football...something you're good at.

Oh Devil Rays, Knock, Kock?

Knock, Knock, anyone home? When it comes to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, nobody answers: meaning no one's held accountable. Now we learn slugger, Josh Hamilton, is batting .440 for the Cincinnati Reds, moreover he'll probably make the opening day roster. The same Josh Hamilton who was a first round pick also projected starter for Tampa. Hamilton suffered numerous drug relapses before finally turning his life around and playing in the Rays farm system. He was well on his way to a comeback before a knee injury side tracked him. Last year, the Rays placed the North Carolina native on waivers. The Reds took a chance, and Hamilton is paying off in huge dividends. The silly thing about this transaction is the Rays kept Hamilton despite his relapses. Why on earth would they put him on waivers when the club had already endured through so much turmoil? It makes about as much sense as two people getting a divorced after fifty years of marraige. Hello, is anyone home? A club filled with restless young players still lacks veteran leadership, furthermore in the American League East, the Rays know the season is over before it starts. The manager, John Madden, refuses to challenge the club because he recognizes no one cares about winning here; so why should he. Major league baseball should consider doing what some minor league affiliations do. If a triple A club does not remain competitive, it is reclassified as a double A team. Perhaps, that's the only way to send the Rays back to the minors...knock, knock!

Lightning on Thin Ice

In the National Hockey League, the Tampa Bay Lightning are inching towards a playoff berth; however despite having the two of the top scoring threats, Vinny Lecavalier also Marty St. Louis, the Bolts are struggling in goal. This could handicapped the club's playoff hopes. Neither Holquist nor Marc Dennis have been consistent in goal. Both players, moreover, have been taking turns letting in soft goals. Tampa Bay is playing with the same consistent hustle and voracious fore checking that defined 2003 Stanley Cup champions. Yet, the hockey equivalent to basketball rebounding is stalwart goal tending, and the Lightning aren't getting it consistently. Currently, the New Islanders are receiving great net minding from Rick Depietro. Against the Rangers, he played brilliantly by stopping 56 goals. That's what turns also rans into serious playoff contenders. Tampa Bay may not be in the playoffs long without better goaltending.

Tim Hardaway, don't worry you're too ugly.

Former basketball all-star, Tim Hardaway, was banned by the NBA for making very disparaging remarks about gays. Kudos for NBA commissioner, David Stern. First of all, how can African Americans disassociate themselves from the plight of homosexuals. Consider, it was just sixty years ago blacks were the group to hate. For example, 14-year old, Megar Evers, was beat to death for whistling at an attractive white woman. African Americans, moreover, were ridiculed, discriminated against, and segregated from society. His constitutional rights, well the KKK uses it to encouraged hatred against blacks, the Skinheads hide behind it to promote racism against Jews, and the Aryan Nation uses it to promote sexism against women. Stern, meanwhile, was just taking the necessary precautions to protect his league from a man whose vitriolic comments aligned him with racists. Hardaway said that he was homophobic and hated gays. He, furthermore, stated he would feel uncomfortable dressing in front of a homosexual. As for perversion, more heterosexuals molest and rape children than gays, and as ugly as Tim Hardaway is, he shouldn't worry about any man or woman checking him out.

Colts are just better.

For the first time in pro football history, two African American football coaches will face off for the most coveted prize in American sports: the Vince Lombardi Trophy. The Chicago Bears, Lovie Smith, and the Indianapolis, Colts, Tony Dungy, will be the focal point of the Super Bowl. Pro sports has always been the vehicle altering the landscape of racism. Consider the Dodgers signing of Jackie Robinson. That bold move by general manager, Branch Rickey, led to the integration of public schools, the army, also public transportation. Ironically 35-years ago, it was believed by many that African Americans lacked the mental capacity to play quarterback in college and pro football. Today, their speed also athleticism has revolutionized the position. Dungy, who has built a Hall of Fame resume, plays down the significance of this historic occasion. He says it will only be news when no notices the color of a head coach's skin. But tonight, over 35-years of prejudice will finally be buried when he or Lovie Smith holds up the Vince Lombardi trophy.
* As for the game, I'm picking the Colts 24-14. Indy's defense is too fast for the sluggish Bears to contain; everyone seems to forget, moreover, the banged up Seattle Sea hawks almost beat Chicago in the second round playoff game. New Orleans, could not believe they let an opportunity slip away when they clearly were the superior team. Although Lovie beat Tony to the Super Bowl the Colts will make sure Tony Dungy is the one who hoist the trophy.

Boise State ain't Gator Bait.

So Gators, what does this prove: absolutely nothing. Florida's lopsided win over Ohio State is almost as laughable as the system that created a mythical champion; and judging by the television ratings, no else is buying it. The tightly contested Orange Bowl between underdog Boise State and Oklahoma experienced a 27 percent drop in ratings. That translates into 27 million less viewers than last year. The Sugar and other nameless bowls saw their numbers drop also. It seems to suggest that no one is buying the theory a National Championship can be won using computers, sportswriters, and coaches. After not playing for nearly two months, did you really expect Ohio State to play to its potential. Now maybe OSU coach, Jim Tressel, will join Florida's, Urban Myer, in calling for a playoff. It would have been nice to see who would emerge from a pool of Florida, LSU, Boise State, and USC. The NCAA does it for every other sport ; why not do it for the biggest money maker of all. My hat goes off to Florida, but are they really better than LSU or USC? Americans are right in tuning out these bowls. Now if the NCAA really cares about the regular season, the only undefeated team left standing is Boise State, therefore the Broncos are the real national champions.
As for the National Football League, I like the the Colts to upset the Ravens. Despite Baltimore's record, the Titans were right in giving up on quarterback, Steve McNair, and the Colts should exploit his declining skills. The San Diego Chargers should eke out a close win over the ageless Patriots. The Philadelphia Eagles are peeking at the right time and they'll defeat the Saints, but this one will be close. Finally, the Chicago Bears will win one more game before hibernating for the winter....Happy New Year Football Fans.

Darrent Williams: Pro Athletes and Gangsta Rap

Its becoming all too clear pro athletes partying with gangsta rappers is a volatile cocktail. On New Year's eve, the Denver Broncos' 24-year old starting corner back, Darrent Williams, was gunned down a few blocks away from a popular Denver night club: the Shelter. The New Year's eve social gathering was held in conjunction with a birthday party for the Denver Nuggets, Kenyon Martin.
According to police, a confrontation erupted between Williams' entourage and another group in attendance. This group may have consisted of some rappers also their Disc Jockey. Williams was not thought to have been an instigator, only a bystander; however his past affiliation with gangsta rappers is well documented. This violent episode coincides with another shooting at the University of Pittsburgh. Several of their basketball players were shot when a man thought a player was coming on to his alleged girlfriend. Professional athletes are accustomed to being the toast of the party, nevertheless this perception is starting to be routinely challenged by hoodlums, rappers, or anyone else seeking the limelight. The competition for women, particularly the gold-diggers and hoes, frequenting these sets can set off a deadly explosion resulting in a carnage of fatalities. Consider the ingredients: booze, male ego, and the allure of sex can make any high strung male risk everything for a tenuous one night stand. The women know which night spots are frequented by athletes and rappers. These affairs are high stakes opportunities to meet gorgeous women of all races. Unfortunately, it's turning into a life and death battle for African American males who are rapidly becoming the sexual role model and preference for many women. Congratulations brothers; Jack Johnson would proud; but if you want to keep it real, let the hotties know, they're not worth dying for.

Gruden vs Alstott

In Tampa, a unique showdown occurred between coach, John Gruden, and the legions of fans endeared by hard charging full back, Mike Alstott. Since winning the Super Bowl, the Bucs have posted losing seasons four of the past five years. 2005, however, was an aberration with Tampa capturing the 2005 NFC South title. During each of those losing seasons, some fans complained on talk radio about the lack of carries for Alstott. Some believed Gruden had something against the popular veteran; for the time being, Alstott didn't help his case by privately complaining about the lack of carries. Meanwhile, the tempestuous Gruden may have bent over backwards by giving Alstott chances at the expense of the more productive, Michael Pittman. Sunday, Pittman had over 108 yards rushing including 33 all purpose yards. Arguably, he's as good as starter, Cadillac Williams, but Pittman usually comes in on passing situations. Yesterday, he started in place of the injured Williams. A five time all pro, Alstott may have been underused considering how nimble he is running the ball. He also has excellent hands; something Cadillac clearly lacks. As for Gruden, he shows poor judgement in evaluating talent. For example, quarterback, Tim Rattay, has a better grasp of the West Coast offense than either, Chris Simms, or Bruce Gradowski. Rattay, however, didn't start until the last two games of the season; furthermore, the selection of Cadillac Williams, also receiver, Michael Clayton, seems inexcusable considering the wealth of talent around the league at these positions. Alstott, and defensive end, Simeon Rice, have insinuated the Buccaneers are poorly prepared for games and fail to make adjustments during crucial junctures. Although that's the head coach's responsibility, there are over 20 other Buccaneer assistant coaches who are also at fault. This may have been Alstott's last game, nevertheless, the Bucs should put him in a key management position to continue his association with the team. For no other player symbolizes the traits of toughness, character, and responsibility than the man known as the " A Train."

Is NCAA selling ice cream to Eskimos?

Recently, Alumni from the University of Florida were in a feeding frenzy over tickets to the National Championship game against Ohio State. Florida responded by asking, "How much you Got?" Some disillusioned Gators were offering $15,000, their first born, and a whole lot more. All this commotion is being played out over a mythical national championship game. I wonder how much demand would there be for the Super Bowl if the combatants were decided by a bunch of coaches, sportswriters, also computer geeks. With all respects to Florida and Ohio State, we really don't know if these are the two best teams in college football; consider, there is no playoff. For all we know, hard charging LSU could have the best squad. Granted, I love the drama played out during the regular season. One lost, and you can almost kiss a national title run goodbye. Lets not pretend, however, this is the National Championship contest because its not decided on the field. The selection process, moreover, is dubious at best. In an association that sponsors playoffs for every other sport, the best the NCAA should do is acknowledge that the winner of the BCS is nothing more than -excuse the pun LSU- a paper Tiger.

Red Necks Want To Hang John Gruden

In Tampa, Fl, the red necks are calling for the head of Bucs' football coach, John Gruden. Despite winning the Super Bowl three years ago also the NFC South last season, the necks want Gruden's head on a silver platter. According to disgruntle fans, Gruden is supposed to be an offensive genius, however the Buccanneers rank last in the NFL in total offense. In Pittsburgh, the Bucs kicked a field goal with four seconds left to avoid a shutout. The organization will have another first round draft pick next year, but with the disappointing perfomances of running back, Cadillac Williams and receiver, Michale Clayton, there is no reason for optimism. Clayton's declined has been particulary hard to fathom. Two years ago, he caught over sixty passes; this season, however, he's dropped more balls than Boston's, Manny Ramirez. Both Williams and Clayton are Gruden picks. Tampa's poor drafts have coincided with the departure of player personel director, Tim Ruskell. Gruden and general manager, Bruce Allen, are making all the calls and its showing. Selecting players is a full time job, and the league is full of coaches who tried to do it by themselves. Seattle's Paul Holmgren, had to relinquish his GM duties when the Seahawks fell by the wayside. Gruden thinks he can locate prospects in the senior bowl, but there's more to it. Players have to be scouted game by game, and their backgrounds have to be checked out throughly. Former USC standout receiver, Mike Williams, is a case in point. After signing a multi million dollar contract, he became fat and lazy. Not unusual for players who are drafted in the first round. John Gruden should go back to coaching and the Bucs should get a new general manager who will be more than a yes man for Gruden. This is the only way to save a good football coach's neck.

Irvin, Better to be silent and thought a fool.

The African American male took another step back when Michael Irvin used his big mouth to utter more nonsense. According to the colorful ESPN analyst, Dallas Cowboy quarterback, Tony Romo, is good because somewhere in his genes is some good old black blood. In other words, the only good athletes are black ones. Immediately, it makes you wonder if all black men can do is play sports. African American men have been trying to avoid this degenerative stereotype for years, and now this Steppin Fetchin recreates it. If anything, Irvin should be glad that sports is becoming more integrated. For example, the reigning heavyweight champion of the world, Valdimir Klitscho, is white. In track and field, the Jamaicans are outrunning many American sprinters. The NBA is also becoming more diversified with an increasing number of Europeans. To suggest that one has to be black to excel at sports is ignorant. You wonder just how much a commitment the University of Miami has if its churning out dumb jocks like Irvin. King Solomon said, "Better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."

Bonus Pick: Giants over Seahawks

This week in the NFL, the Giants travel to Seattle; the Jacksonville Jaguars are in Indianapolis; the Chicago Bears face the Vikings; the Bengals tackle the Steelers; the Bucs face the winless Panthers; and in the Big Easy, its the Falcons against the New Orleans Saints. First I'll handicape the Jaguars and the Colts. Despite home field advantage, I expect the Colts to lose to the Jaguars. Jacksonville will be to physical against the finess team like Indianapolis. Also, receiver, Matt Jones, is too big of a target for opposing defenses to contain, meanwhile Jacksonville's well balance offense will continue to outscore the opposition. The Colts will move the ball, but they should fall short by a field goal. Last week, the Vikings got luckey against the Panthers, but they'll be no such good fortune against the Bears. Like Jacksonville, the creme is coming to the top and in the NFC....its Da Bears! Even with Big Ben back in the lineup, the Cinncinatti Bengals have been anticipating this rematch. Cinncinatti believes they were only a cheap shot away from the Super Bowl. It was a viscious tackle by the Steelers that led to a season ending knee injury to quarterback, Carson Palmer. Expect the Bengals to extract payback Sunday. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers have to be chewing on their claws after turning the ball over and allowing the Vikings to tie the game. Minnesota won the game in overtime...The Panthers will get their first win on Sunday albeit it will be against perhaps the NFL's worst team: Tampa Bay. Lightning quick receiver, Steve Smith, should return and give the Panthers a boost. For the Bucs, it's an arduous task just to get into field goal terriorty, furtheremore, many NFL commentators believe Tampa's quarterback, Chris Simms, wouldn't start on a girl's flag football team. Take Carolina to cover. The Giants will be inspired by their come from behind win over the Eagles, and that should propel them to a win over the Seahawks. Although these are too excellent teams, the Giants would have won this game last year; but needless turnovers and penalties allowed Seattle to win. I look for the Giants to play smarter this time and win. Bonus Pick: The Saints will upset the Falcons.

Falcons over Tampa Bay Bucs

Another great week of college and pro football awaits with key games featuring the Florida Gators at Tennessee, the Nebraska Cornhuskers at USC, also Clemson at Florida State. In the National Football League, we'll closely examine statement games involving Tampa Bay at Atlanta; Chicago at Dallas, and the New York Football Giants at Philadelphia.
In Knoxville, I like the Gators over Tennessee. This is a must game for coach, Phil Fulmer's Vols, however Florida has too much talent. Quarterback, Chris Leak and receiver, Percy Harvin are a handful, furthermore the Gators defense - no pun - can put the clamps on anyone. Florida coach, Urban Myer, has this team hitting on all cylinders, so look for Florida to win by at least ten points. Nebraska carries the hopes and prayers of the Big Twelve against USC. This game won't turn into the typical S.C. bloodletting, and Southern Cal may be pressed to cover the spread. Nebraska could call upon its tradition and keep this thing close.
If you're smart stay away from the points in this one. In the Bowden Bowl, Florida State is really struggling offensively but its doubtful Clemson has
the horses to beat FSU in Tallahassee. Look for Seminoles to break out of their doldrums and win this game going away. Now for the National Football League: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fell apart in their home opener against the Ravens. The Bucs will rebound in Atlanta and make this game close. But sharply contested games only count in horseshoes and quarterback, Mike Vick, has too much to prove to allow this game to get away. The Falcons will win a nail bitter that could go into overtime; therefore avoid taking the points. Take the Falcons to win the game outright...The Cowboys, cocky safety, Roy Williams, has guaranteed a Cowboys victory over "DA Bears!" Perhaps, Williams remembers Carolina's, Steve Smith, shredding the Bears secondary in last year's playoff game. You know, Roy Williams, is right...the Cowboys will win because Terrell Owens also Terry Glenn, will roam free in secondary while Dallas lights up the scoreboard. Take the Cowboys to cover. In conclusion, I like the Giants to rebound in Philly, and the Minnesota Vikings to beat the Carolina Panthers. Last week, I went 5-1 with my picks. Are you keeping score.

Rays Prospects Are In Prison.

So the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' Durham Bulls minor league team has turned into the latest version of Animal Farm? Recently some of their so called prized prospects lashed out at the Devil Rays for not bringing them up. Third baseman, B.J. Upton, catcher, Elijah Dukes, also outfielder, Delmon Young, condemned the organization for not promoting them to the big leagues. In a bit of irony, these colts aren't the first to hammer the Rays for neglect. When slugger, Johnny Comes, came up, he was sent right back down despite six home runs in 15 contest. Gomes' parting shot, "What do I have to prove down here?" Devil Ray manager, Joe Madden, censured the players for speaking out, but how does one justify what Tampa Bay is doing. For example, Delmon Young is batting .368 in triple A, that almost translates into a .300 average in the majors. ESPN baseball analyst, Peter Gammons, said Young was a franchise player. So how do you explain keeping him on farm rather than honing his skills against major league pitching. To quote Gomes, "What do I have to prove down here?" Madden, meanwhile, is playing utility reserve, Greg Norton, who is batting .228. Shouldn't he be considered for re-assignment and Young promoted. Does Rays management think these young studs aren't reading the line scores of the men ahead of them.
Young, Dukes, also Upton, have imploded at times: consider, Young flipped his bat at umpire for alledgedly making a bad call. Upton was cited for drunk driving, Dukes has been suspended several times for bad behavior. Good minor league players are anxious to be called up; consequently, the farm systems is a form of prison. The players routinely travel by bus, play in inadequate facilities, furthermore there are no professional role models for mentoring. Low budget teams like the Devil Rays deliberately keep their best prospects in triple A to deny them an early chance at free agency. If the minor leagues are considered a prison, then Young, Upton, and Dukes have every right to voice their concern over a sentence that denies them a chance at parole.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays are in DIS-AA-RAY

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays are considering changing their nickname: here's a suggestion, how about naming the team, "DIS-AA-RAYS." Mired in a state of perpetual confusion, this downtrodden team can't get turned around. First, genius Andrew Friedman trades strong armed catcher, Toby Hall, for highly coveted, Dioner Navarro; As usual, he was only wanted by the D-Rays. The problem is, Navarro can't throw out a toddler, and every major league team realizes it; so they run on Navarro all day long. When trade rumors surfaced last year regarding, Aubrey Huff. Outfielder, Carl Crawford spoke up, "Its only going to make us worst." Yet the Rays traded their best hitter, so B.J. Upton can move up to the big leagues. Problem is, Upton also has defensive shortcomings. Crawford, more than anything, was addressing team chemistry. What does it say to your veterans when you refused to resign your best player?
Friedman, meanwhile, says the organization wants to compete by the year 2008, however commissioner, Bud Selig replied, "Teams that are rebuilding always seem to be under construction, but winning clubs stay in title contention." Two years from now, Tampa Bay would have made significant gains by reaching .500, but that's hardly competitive in the Big East. Perhaps one answer is outfielder, Delmon Young, but he languishes on the farm. As with most of their young guns, the front office doesn't want its premium players getting to free agency quickly. Winning organizations like the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Chicago White Sox realize the future is now. Perhaps, the management should also look back on an old adage: you get what you pay for and in Tampa Bay that's a lot of DIS-AA-RAYS.