Bill Walsh Passes

Former San Fran 49er coach Bill Walsh passed away Monday morning from a long battle of leukemia. He was 75 years old. Walsh had 3 Super Bowl victories leading the great 49ers of the 80's. He was best known for being the creator of the "West Coast Offense." A efficient passing game with the idea of using that to set up the run. Very effective system if you have the talent to run it.

I have never been a huge fan of the offense. Mainly because Steve Mariucci came to Detroit and slaughtered the WCO theory with a team of misfits. I am also a firm believer that an effective run game to start, opens up the pass, rather than vice versa.

Either way, former players and just about every coach had nothing but praise for Walsh. A good man, great mind. Definitely a sad day in the football world.

This got me thinking. A lot of great minds came through sports during the 80's to revolutionize the way the games are played today. I am talking in all sports. Its up to the guys who are coaching now, who learned from these greats, to keep their ideas fresh with the old school mentality. This is the way great coaches are made. Smarts and balls. Two qualities Bill Walsh possessed.

Eddie Curry Gets Antoine Walker Treatment

Two very bizarre, very similar situations happened within two weeks of each other. Not long after Antoine Walker was tied up and robbed in his Chicago home, Eddie Curry had the same thing happened to him and his family, in Chicago, early Saturday morning. Neither player or family members was injured. Devastated though I am sure.

Chicago thugs must not be playin', cause these are serious crimes that take big balls to pull off.

I mean here is the checklist of things you'd have to consider before pulling this off.

1. Your going into a fancy neighborhood, probably not dressed like a priest.


2. Rich people always take security precautions, there are bound to be cameras.


3. Nba players are almost ALWAYS with a posse. How many "Homeboys" are going to be in the house with him?


4. Nba players are not small dudes. If you slip up, they could easily strong arm you.


5. Usually these are gated communities. Are you going to be able to have a fast getaway?

If you really thing about it though, in this type of robbery, the risk/reward factor is better than say....if you was to rob a bank. I am not sure was the percentage is on bank robbers getting caught, but I am guessing it is high.

You have to suspect the Walker and Curry incidents are somehow connected. Same city, same target, same methods. Time for these players to set up their homes like movie and rock stars. You don't see this shit happening to Ozzy Ozborne or George Clooney. That's cause you have to have an Army to get past those security systems. Did anyone see MTV cribs and Big Boi's security? He took his precautions and even told the camera, "Don't even try it."

I'm just saying, I know these athletes think the are invincible. They are finding out that in the blink of an eye that they can be helpless. This is definitely a wake up call.

VICK PLEADS NOT GUILTY

Not the biggest shocker ever but it became official today. As Vick's teammates reported to training camp, Vick reported to court to plea "Not Guilty" on charges of dog fighting. I am not going to elaborate because we have a long road ahead of us before this thing plays out. But I am going to comment on these "Thug" athletes that find themselves in trouble. They keep it real, dress like rappers in a video, and stay gangsta. Then when court time comes, the dreads come off, no jewelry and all the sudden they are respectable human beings. The ultimate slap in their face. If words like "judge and jury" don't scare them straight when they reach their middle and late 20's, nothing ever will. This is like a perfect episode of Dave Chappelle's "When Keeping it Real Goes Wrong."

What The Hell Is Going On?

Just a few days ago I wrote on here that things were slow and boring in the sports world. The very next day the world we love got rocked by a tornado, hurricane and volcanic eruptions all at once. Sports nation is in a Official State of National Emergency. This time of summer is when the sports world is at it's quietest. It is time for us fans to riot our sports world. It already has been a summer to remember.

NFL- While new commissioner Roger Goodell has had his hands full with his stricter policies, one of his Superstar Qb's (Vick) is indicted on charges involving dog fighting. With the pressure of Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and just your average pet/dog lovers, Goodall is forced to tell Vick not to report to training camp until further notice.

NBA- In what is called the worst scandal of it history, the NBA found out that one of it's referee's was on the take. Fixing games for the mob to better his debt situation. This is a league where its fans already questioned it officiating because it's commissioner coddled his referees and protected them more than his own players. A league divided if you will. Unlike the NLF's problems. This one was kinda self inflicted. Stern will never take any blame and should be canned for this one. The way I see things, it can be best described from a line by my favorite movie character Sam "Ace" Rothstein (Robert DeNiro) in Casino. " Listen, if you didn't know you're bein' scammed, you're too fuckin' dumb to keep this job. If you did know, you were in on it. Either way, you're out. Get out! Go on." I mean I knew something wasn't right. Are you telling me he didn't?

Tour De France- It looks as if like baseball, in cycling if you aint using you aint trying. For years Lance Armstong has battled rumors of steroid use. It kind of seemed that it was more of the French press hating on the American for dominating its popular race. However after he retired a new American, Floyd Landis, came through to win the TDF only to be under suspision for roids and start his own scandal. Now this years TDF leader Michael Rasmussen has been pulled from the race due to doping suspicion. All these guys denied ever using. It will eventually come out that this problem runs deep for cycling. If you ask me Armstong pulled a Mark McGuire. He retired at the perfect time.

Golf- Even one of the most innocent game of professional sports was involved in controversy. Gary Player ,71, a former PGA member and 9 time major champion, had his own doping remarks on his sport. "I know for a fact that some golfers are doing it. … We're dreaming if we think it's not going to come into golf. I would say in the world tour today … there's 10 guys taking something. I might be way out. Definitely not going to be lower, but might be a hell of a lot more." All I have to say is...of course they use them.

Professional Wrestling- Former wrestler Chris Benoit kills wife, then child, then self. Steroids, hydrocodone and anti depressants were found in his body. Whats crazy to me is one of the reasons all this congressional hearing crap started for baseball was to tell the dangers of steroids to kids.When it is clearly being abused in Professional Wrestling, and being watched by more kids than any of the 4 major sports probably combined.

MLB- The sport that opened our eyes to steroids. Which by the way, the only reason is because the most sacred record in sports is about to be broken by it's biggest steroid user. Well that and Jose Canseco. It is such a coincidence that while all these stories broke in about a 15 day span, Barry Bonds is 2 homeruns away from tying and 3 away from breaking the all-time record. The funny thing is baseball has taken a backseat to all these other scandals. Maybe it is because the media is sick of talking about it. Now that there is fresh blood in the water.

HITLER SPEAKS

About 11:03 am today Davis Stern took the podium for what I call the most anticipated press conference of his career. He started by babbling about the rules referees are given. Plus all the thorough background checks every referee undergoes, financial and criminal. After that, it almost seemed as if he gave a little blame to the Nevada Gaming Board for not alerting him to any red flags during the time of these allegations. Maybe that's just me though.

As I am watching this Live, that cockiness Stern always possesses is no where to be found. I think it was a good idea to swallow his pride during this one.

Now he is making excuses of why Donaghy's former problems with neighbors and gambling went without resolution. Stern said he told Donaghy that they were "Unhappy" with his behavior and conduct. If he continued, he would no longer work for the NBA. This was 2005.

June 20th (after the finals) the NBA received a call from FBI about these fixing allegations. Stern met with them the next day.

Boy does Stern look shook up.

Stern is currently not aware of the number of games or which games were fixed.

July 9th Donaghy resigned.

Stern made it clear his understanding of this was an isolated case, however pending investigation he is not sure. He is only going by what he knows now.

He is sure leaving the possibility open that more referees could be involved.

He also says regardless of cost, every procedure will be in place to make sure this will never happen again. At 11:30 he took questions.

No one was given a heads up?
Stern-That is correct

Are you surprised this slipped through the cracks?
Stern-Yes, although no more than the FBI.

Can you take us through the range of emotions after you got the call?
Stern-This is a subject we discuss. I am aware of the threat in all sports. My reaction was I can't believe it happening to us.

Why do you suck cock?
Stern-Cause I am queer and it is yummy.

This was just the basics of the press conference. It's been going on to an hour now. There is much more of this story to go around for the rest of the summer. Later on today I will have my response of today's news.

***UPDATE***

The referee in question is 13 year vet Tim Donaghy. My apologies to Jack Nies. I am sorry your refereeing skills are so shady that I was convinced it was you.

THE FIX IS IN

Well, well, well....Looks like David Stern's henchmen aren't as squeaky clean as he thought. I have been arguing the fact that NBA referees are the most crooked thing in all of sports the past 10 years. Now it looks like I have have some proof to back that up.

Murray Weiss of the NY Post reported today that the FBI is investigating an unnamed NBA referee who supposedly bet on NBA games including games he worked. Apparently thousands of dollars were bet on games in the '05-06 and '06-'07 seasons. Anyone remember that game 3 final in '06? (note: Dirk's phantom foul on Dwade with 1 sec left) The referees for that game were Dan Crawford, Ken Mauer and Jack Nies. Pretty shady crew anyway. Now, I swear to you they have not released the referee in question. But you all can bow down to me when it is revealed Jack Nies is the one. I will apologize if I am wrong.

The FBI started investigating a group of NY mobsters a year ago when it lead them to the referee. I guess the referee had a gambling problem and fell into a deep debt. And as always, mobsters were there to clean up the mess. Stern and the referee are aware (of course, if I know they know) and the ref is planning on turning himself in next week. The NBA had this to say, "We have been asked by the FBI, with whom we are working closely, not to comment on this matter at this time."

I don't know about you, but I am so fucking giddy about this, teenage school girls at a Nick Carter concert have nothing on me. This is like the best episode of the Sopranos that never happened, only in real life.

After the Joey Crawford incident and this, I am hoping Stern will be so paranoid that every referee is suspect now. This needed to happen to fix a major problem with NBA officiating. I am curious to see if the fixed games will be released to the public. Stayed tuned, I know I will.

I Love Stephon Marbury

All of the sudden it seems as if I cannot get enough of Stephon Marbury. The good news for me is he has a week long blog for the NY post. Listening to this guy or reading his words is better entertainment than any movie I could ever watch.

Now the "bigger vision" he has for himself is playing in Italy after his Knicks contract expires in 2 years. He compared his situation to how "Beckham is getting love for coming here" to play soccer. Hmmmm...other than ESPN trying to get ratings, I'm not so sure Beckham is getting love from anyone. Like Beckham, Marbury wants to, "Do the same thing for basketball and spread the Starbury Movement so people all around the world can benefit."

Yeah, I can't tell you how much my life has benefited by having Marbury live in my country. What he needs to do is send me my money for the doctors bill I got for rolling my ankle wearing his cheap ass, no ankle support shoes.

The only reasonable excuse I would except from Marbury wanting to go to Italy is because the cocaine is of great quality over there. America's cocaine is just not strong enough for him anymore.

I could go on and on bashing and quoting this guy, but read his blog. It's just too good to pass up. And for those of you who missed out on this video gem...Take a look.

Vick Can't Scramble Outta This One

Not a proud day for the Vick family today as Michael was indicted on felony counts for dog fighting. Federal agents are mad cause he's flagrant. Tapped his cell and the phone in his basement.(RIP Biggie Smalls)

Now, we all knew of these allegations. I assume, however, we didn't know they would actually get enough evidence for a case against the Superstar QB. This spells DOOM for the Atlanta Falcons. With all of this going on, I would be surprised to see Vick playing football at all this year. That leaves backup JOEY HARRINGTON to lead the Falcons this year. If you think those receivers dropped a lot of passes for Vick...well you know the rest.

While I am a big fan of innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, that rule does not apply in the sports world. Athletes who fall under such scrutiny have a very, very hard time clearing their name with the fans. No matter what the outcome may be. Kobe is still recovering. Barry Bonds never will. Mike Tyson never had a chance anyway, so I guess he don't count. But you get the idea.

Not Much Going On

It has been pretty slow in the sports world the past few days. A few football signings, few basketball notes, couple of suspensions, some soccer guy and the Espy's. Nothing really for us to really care about or me to write about. So here are a few notes....

-A soccer player by the name of Beckham (i think) comes to L.A. to play. No ones cares.

-Jimmy Kimmel was great as host of Espy's. Ends up being the only GREAT thing.

-Former teammates Steven Jackson, Ron Artest both suspended for first 7 games.

-No-legged runner finishes last; Then gets disqualified by no hearted bastards.

-DWade might not be ready for start of season; Still Cries

-Mourning decides to return to Heat for one more year; Team looks shady for '08

-Cuban applies for Cubs. I am pretty confident he would do well

-Wish he would buy the Lions

-Phillies are first team to 10,000 losses. Fans loved attending the game.

Old School Nike Commercial

Back a few years ago, Nike had about a 10 year run from around '86 to '96 where they owned the marketing side of basketball. Soon after that the likes of a new company And 1, Reebok, Converse and Adidas leveled out the playing field. It took 4 companies to do so, however, if you ask me Nike still has them all beat. Although, Brand Jordan is a great product and has ruled much of 2000 and on. Regardless, no company will ever have better commercials than Nike did in that era. Here is probably my favorite. Chris Webber and Latrell Sprewell (pre-choke) in a barbershop talking about Webber's dunk over Barkley. Below is footage of actual play.

Sheffield Respects Leyland

All I am going to say regarding Sheffield's HBO interview is while he should keep quiet, does anyone even care that he was bashing Torre and the Yankees? Most people are going to call Sheff a loud mouth racist for his comments. Being a Tiger fan, as long as he continues to be a beast at the plate, I could care less. I am not trying to dive into Sheff's mind here, but I am assuming after playing a half a year for class act Jim Leyland, he realizes the dictatorship being ran over in NY. "Since I was there I just saw that they run their ship different. He(Torre) had a message to get across to the whole team, so he used me to get the message across. He didn't do that with the white players." In my mind all of this is a testament to how Leyland treats his players like men equally.

A lot of Sheff haters will respond by telling Detroit fans it is just a matter of time before he feels disrespected in Detroit. That may be, but is yet to be seen. All I have to go by right now is this .310 BA, 22 HR, 62 RBI's. Keep that up and he can run his mouth all the way to a World Series Parade. Rod Allen said it best,"If you don't wanna know, don't ask Gary."

***UPDATE****

Sheffield hit a grand slam the night his "Yankee Bashing" story broke.

Steve Francis Needs a Franchise

Steve Francis was traded draft day from the Knicks to the Portland Trail Blazers for basically Zach Randolph. Two weeks later Portland showed why they are a organization on the rise and bought out the remainder of Francis' contract. He was owed $34 million for next 2 years. Terms were not disclosed.

Francis, 30, is now considering the Rockets, Mavs, Lakers, Clippers, Heat, Hawks, Pacers, Magic, Bobcats, Spurs, Bulls, Pistons, Suns, Warriors, Bucks, Cavs, Nets, Nuggets, Celtics, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Hornets, 76'ers, Kings, Sonics, Jazz, Raptors, Hornets and Wizards. Also the Shock, Liberty, Comets, and anywhere overseas.

By the way, has an athlete ever represented his nickname as poorly as "Stevie Franchise?" Unless it means that he tries to play for every franchise, then I would understand. Or maybe its to ruin every franchise. It also could be the exact opposite strategy Natalie at Need4Sheed talks about. You know when you call your big friend "Slim." Or on your softball team when you call the slowest guy "Wheels." Whatever it is, just hope it's not your city he comes to (ruin) play for.

Danny Markov Punches Fan

It's not everyday your best friend gets punched by a NHL player from Russia. But I am here to tell you, if you knew my friends, it really comes as no suprise. About a month or so ago the Red Wings were spotted at Chelis, a downtown Detroit sports bar owned by Wing defenseman Chris Chelios. It was the after season gathering of the players as they go their seperate ways for the summer. I assume they were relaxing, having a few drinks. A near by Comerica Park was full of people in attendence for that nights Detroit Tiger game.

My buddy headed over to Chelis, from the Tigers game, to live a life long dream and hang out with current and childhood hero's. I mean this guy is about as die hard Wings fan as it gets. He was chumming it up with Hasek and Datsuk. Osgood was buying him drinks. He even bummed a smoke off a stumbling drunk Danny Markov. Apparently, Russians hate giving up their smokes, cause out of no where Markov decided to clock my buddy in the nose. My buddy stood there shocked as Markov instantly apologized. My buddy was escorted out by his group so the scene did not get bigger than needed.

Markov's bloody knuckles

The reason I decided to post this is because I want to point out that my buddy showed no ill will towards Markov, Chelios or his establishment. In a world where everyone is sue happy, where fans leave on stretchers from getting hit by a basketball, my buddy now has a great story of men throwing a few brews back. True sports fan, true man. I choose my friends wisely.

***Markov was not resigned by Wings shortly after***

Pacman Jones Boggles the Mind...

Adam "Pacman" Jones was pulled over last month at 8:30am somewhere near his Tennessee home. Several citations were issued including wrong plates on his Lamborghini, a registration violation, for having a Georgia licence and having no proof of insurance. This guy must be sick of going to court as the date for these infractions are scheduled for Aug. 10. If I was Pacman, and thank my mama I am not, I would not leave my house with out this check list:

1. Drivers Licence, insurance, registration



2. Birth Certificate



3. Passport



4. Mother



5. Bible

My gut tells me when will not hear the end of Pacman until he is associated with the name Rae Carruth. Someone please stop him before that happens.

Shannon Brown Throws Down

Nice dunk here by former Michigan State and current Cleveland Cavalier guard Shannon Brown over China.

Antoine Walker Robbed

Miami Heat forward Antoine Walker was robbed at a house in his hometown of Chicago around 7:30 Monday night. Apparently the robbers held Walker and another at gun point while a vehicle, cash and jewelery were taken. Walker's agent confirmed the incident but said he could not go into details. Luckily for you guys, I have a friend with the Chicago Police Department and he told me what happened. I guess after the robbers broke in, Walker went to get his gun. He was standing 23'9'' away from the robbers. He shot at them and missed. He then grabbed the rebound, shot again and missed. He once again got the rebound, shot and missed. He wound up shooting 0-9 against the robbers before they sat him down. The robbers left shaking their heads in disgust at the player. No one was injured.

Home Run Derby: Long and Boring

Michael Wilbon said on PTI today that the HRD was the most exciting all star event of the major sports. With the dunk contest hitting a standstill the past...well 10 years. With nobody even knowing when or what channel the NHL are doing their events, I could see where Wilbon was coming from. However, after watching the derby Monday night, I completely disagree. I lost interest the 1st hour of the 3 HOUR EVENT!! YES 3 HOURS!! Talk about trying to make a event more than what it is. Ah, good ol' Espn. I have a few suggestions for MLB to spice up their all star event.

• Reduce the number of participants


• Reduce the number of outs allowed from 10 to 5


• Call it the Pop-out Derby-that's what it was


• Quit going to in studio analysis


• Add a new event. Such as MLB's fastest player. Start at home and run the bases. Fastest clocked time wins. I'd enjoy it.

Lastly, I wanna laugh at everyone who lined up a boat in McCovey's Cove. Including Kenny Mayne who was equipped with a helmet cam. I laugh because in 3 hours, 2 balls were hit in the water. 1 was foul. By the way Vladimir Guerrero won......I Think. Feel free to share your ideas on how to better the MLB All-Star experience.

Dan Patrick Calls it Quits

Today Dan Patrick decided to call it quits after 18 years with Espn. Ironically, Steven A. Smith and Stuart Scott both still work for the company. Patrick announced that his final radio show appearance will be Aug. 17. Patrick had these words, "I feel privileged to have had this opportunity and I have extremely mixed emotions about leaving. With that said, I told ESPN that I believe it's time for me to try something different, something that will also be challenging and rewarding. While I'm not sure what that will be, I am grateful to ESPN for its willingness to allow me to pursue new endeavors."

This officially ends a great era for Espn and the great sportscasters they USED to have. Even though he was on radio, his presence alone gave the company credibility. Think I am exaggerating? Watch ONE episode of "Who's Now." This is the direction the show "Sportscenter" decided to take during it's slow summer months. Stuart Scott leading the way with Keyshawn Johnson, Kirk Herbstreit, and Michael Wilbon arguing on whether Steve Nash or Serena Williams is more worthy. I just pulled a Kobayashi. (Threw up in my mouth) The following legends must be rolling over in their grave. May they R.I.P. Keith Olbermann, Beano Cook, Charlie Steiner, Craig Kilborn, George Grande, Rich Eisen, Robin Roberts just to name a few. Thank God for Fox Sports Net.

Federer tells Nadal,"We Aint on Clay Now, BITCH"

Roger Federer beat Rafael Nadal in 5 sets to win his 5th straight Wimbledon title. Now the talk has begun of where Federer holds his place in history. Is he the best ever? Is the field of competition too weak? My thoughts are as long as we are done talking about Andy Roddick, I could really care less. But seriously, It will be a while before someone will come along with the type of dominance Federer has. Nadal is close, but unless it is on clay, he must play flawless to win. On the other hand, as GREAT as Roger is, I refuse to crown the Swede as best ever until he wins a tourney on clay.....Against Rafael Nadal.

Tito Ortiz and Rashad Evans Fight to a Draw

Saturday night bad boy Tito Ortiz fought reality show fighter Rashad Evans only to end up in a draw. Which will ultimately prompt a 2nd fight. Hmmmm. Boxing anyone? And just like boxing, this one had its controversy with Tito being deducted a point for holding the fence in the second round. Evans seemed to land the cleaner shots as Ortiz overpowered Evans with take downs. The real fight seemed to be in the post fight press conference. Where I would say Evans won that fight. When Tito, who was wearing shades to cover up fight damage, was asked if the point that was taken away was his first warning he replied "I think that was the 1st time he warned me." Evans quickly replied, "Tito, you were grabbing the cage the whole fight. Every time I got in on you, you were grabbing the cage." Then, this is classic crybaby shit, Ortiz replies, "How about the Vaseline on your arms? How about that?'' After a few minutes of babbling Evans landed the knock out punch of the post fight interview saying, "Take off your glasses! Let your face tell the story!" By far the best shot of the night. As much as I hate to say it I am looking forward to the rematch. Heres my $39.95. Yup, they suckered me right in. The full interview is available below.

www.ufc.com/?fa=videoplayer.home&gid=6757

Placido Polanco's Head Has Own Area Code

While he is arguably the best 2nd basemen in baseball, something has to be said about Polanco and his gigantic dome. When Polanco arrived in Detroit last year I remember commenting on his tremendous baseball skills. Then I saw him in the dugout without a hat or helmet. Lets just say I can't talk about anything else from here on out. As I have monitored that thing like a 6 month pre-mature baby, I have taken a few notes. His 1st few months with the Tigers is was big enough to take notice. After the season went on and the joke had gotten stale, it was almost as if his head wasn't big anymore. I even questioned myself. Was I being too harsh? Was it never that big in the 1st place? Placido went on, after a stint on the DL, to have a great playoff run and even be named Alcs MVP. Now!!! Here we are half way through the '07 season. That thing he calls a head is growing and growing a rate you can not fathom. I am now at the point where I feel sorry for the guy. What is causing this I have no idea. These pictures really don't give you the full scale. But hopefully you get the hint.

John Kitna never learned to count

Its that time of year again when every football fan can say their team is in 1st place. However, some teams' fans, such as the Lions, should know better. As at this time of year we look at it as being tied for last place. While Lions fans have all but given up, its a good thing to know the players have confidence just oozing through out their body. John Kitna recently told reporters that the Lions would win 10 games this season. Then, to throw gas on the fire, on friday he told ESPN that he was going to throw for 50 td passes. "We've been joking around as the passing game, the receivers and tight ends and stuff, and we've been breaking down our little huddles and saying 50". He must of had a helluva year in Madden '07 during the off season. Kitna reminds me of a little kid around 2-3 years old. Ya know when they start counting and doing their ABC's. The kid always starts out strong 1...2....3.....then around 4 is where they like to hike it up a bit. 4...8....10....Well I am convinced John Kitna practices this method. The bad thing is, he has also taught Mike Furry how to count. Furry also predicted 10-12 wins. With the Stud receiver Calvin Johnson lining up with Roy Williams, It is going to be very exciting to watch these guys play. I like the almost cockiness they are possessing. However, training camp has not even started. C'mon fellas, keep it to yourself, let the play on the field do the talking. Trust me your not impressing anyone in Michigan.

Stephon Marbury is Smart

I am not sure if everyone is aware, but Stephon Marbury recently did an interview on Mike'd Up, a NY based television show. It was a little over nine minutes of pure entertainment. From talking about averaging 10-12 dimes and 2 assists this year to explaining how he felt as he kissed his sister and felt her body, this could go down as interview of the year. The words "DUMB" and "IGNORANT" are just not strong enough to explain how I now feel about the Knick point guard. Take a look for yourself as my words do this video no justice. Click link below to be directed to you tube. Or click the video at top of screen to watch it here. Feel free to comment.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_yTjebH2fLU