tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65671078253731832352024-03-05T02:44:50.324-05:00You Want Rice Noodle?...has gone cheezburgers...e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-84561782189403855952017-12-13T13:48:00.001-05:002018-04-10T13:21:48.973-04:00Wayyyyy Too Early 2018 NFL Mock DraftMy mock draft from the previous two years never made it past the "draft" (get it?). I'm going to write this and publish it immediately.. Obviously it's way too early and I'm reaching for underclassmen who haven't declared. But it's fun to poke fun at Kiper and McShay... who each year underwhelm the masses when it comes to their hideously incorrect mock drafts.<br />
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<b>UPDATED on 4/10/2018 with updated draft order.</b><br />
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<ol>
<li><b>Cleveland Clowns</b> - first things first, this team needs to be re-branded as the Clowns with a logo to match. The Clown would not only be frightening to all involved, but would accurately depict the organization and ownership. <insert and="" balloons="" noses="" red="">. The pick: <b>Sam Darnold (QB - USC)</b>. You know they're going to pick the wrong QB, right? </insert></li>
<li><b>NY Giants</b> - <b>Josh Rosen (QB - UCLA)</b> - if I were head of personnel for the Giants, I would take the best O-Line available and build the team that way, but after the way Eli has been exiled, they have to part ways after this season and a QB is a must-get.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>NY Jets - Baker Mayfield (QB - Oklahoma)</b> - they trade up and get the guy that they ultimately want. The last QB to walk into the locker room with this much swag was a product of being the QB of an all-star team at USC and part of an extremely very weak QB class: Mark "Butt Fumble" Sanchez.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Cleveland Clowns - </b>Back for more. They'll probably trade down to get <b>Quentin Nelson (OG - ND) </b>instead of drafting <b>Saquon Barkley (RB - PSU).</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Denver Broncos </b>- This is a BPA spot... and my clearcut BPA is <b>Bradley Chubb (DE - NCSt)</b></span></li>
<li><b>Indianapolis Colts - </b>apparently they've found their QB of the future in Jacoby Brissett (bravo, Indy), so hopefully they'll address the glaring need on the O-Line and back-7. <b>Quentin Nelson (G - Notre Dame). </b></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Tampa Bay Bucs</b> - The TJ Ward experiment has failed miserably this season. <b>Minkah Fitzpatrick (DB - Alabama).</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Chicago Bears</b> - this kid Combined his way into the Top 10: <b>Tremaine Edwards (DE/OLB - VT)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>SF 49ers - </b>needs, needs, everywhere... The offense is starting to grow into something that could be special in a couple years, but the defense could use a little more TLC, especially on the outside. <b>Denzel Ward (CB - Ohio State).</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Oakland Raiders - </b>Even with the return of a healthy Gareon Conley, the DBs are still four slices of Swiss cheese: <b>Derwin James (DB - FSU)</b>. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Miami Dolphins - </b>the 'Fins have zero depth at linebacker and it wouldn't shock me to see them trade with Oakland to get their guy: <b>Roquan Smith (LB - Georgia)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Buffalo Bills - </b>something tells me that this is going to happen and he's still going to be here: <b>Josh Allen (QB - WYO).</b></span></li>
<li><b>Washington Redskins - </b>this team always feels like it's a few solid pieces away from being consistently good. <span style="color: blue;">They signed well during the off-season (including Alex Smith and Orlando Scandrick). The only glaring need is on the line(s): <b>Vita Vea (DT - Washington)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Green Bay Packers - </b>my ex-coworker is always mad about how porous his favorite team's defense is: <b>Joshua Jackson (CB - Iowa)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Arizona Cardinals</b> - David Johnson returns in 2018 to find a new tank to run behind... <b>Mike McGlinchey (OT - Notre Dame)</b></span></li>
<li><b style="color: blue;">Baltimore Ravens - </b><span style="color: blue;">The Ravens always seem to find some tremendous draft value (see: Ronnie Stanley). Alex Collins is fine, but everyone has seen what last year's crop of RBs has done in The League this year:</span><span style="color: blue;"> </span><b style="color: blue;">Derrius Guice (RB - LSU)</b></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Seattle Seahawks - </b>is Russell Wilson getting a vote? If so, it's definitely an O-Line pick: <b>Kolton Miller (UCLA - OT)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>LA Chargers - </b>the couple times I've watched this team play, they look pretty complete. I say they take the best player available and figure out other needs later: <b>Maurice Hurst (DT - Michigan)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Dallas Cowboys - </b>has anyone seen Dallas' defense lately? This one is easy: <b>Mike Hughes (DB - UCF)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Detroit Lions - </b>I'm torn between a guy like Marcus Davenport (pass-rushing phenom) and Rashaan Evans (MLB-freak). I'll go with <b>Davenport (DL - UTSA)</b>.</span> </li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Cincinnati Bungals </b>- the other Ohio team needs re-branded as well. Will the Brown-family ever fire Lewis... The O-Line is an embarrassing mess. </span><b><span style="color: blue;">Will Hernandez (OG - UTEP)</span>.</b></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Buffalo Bills - </b>I feel like this is the right place to insert this guy who will potentially form a solid duo in the long-term with Zay Jones for this franchise: <b>Calvin Ridley (WR - Alabama)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>New England Patriots -</b> O-Line or DB. It's not BB's style to grab a DB in the 1st Round, so I'll vote for an OL guy: <b>Connor Williams (OT - Texas)</b>. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Carolina Panthers - </b>I'm sure he won't fall this far, but hey, luck of the draft, er, draw. <b>Christian Kirk (WR - Texas A&M)</b></span></li>
<li><b>Tennessee Titans - </b>Tough to play a 3-4 when you're lacking LBs: <b>Arden Key (OLB - LSU)</b></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Atlanta Falcons - </b>the only image I associate with the Falcons is a safety getting mean-mugged by Julian Edelman in the Super Bowl: <b>Ronnie Harrison (S - Alabama)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>New Orleans Saints - </b>LB seems to be the weakest spot on this team... <b><b>Harold Landry (LB - Boston College)</b></b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Pittsburgh Steelers - </b>This sounds crazy, but it doesn't. <b>Lamar Jackson (QB - Louisville).</b> </span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Jacksonville Jags - </b>Jags at 29?! This has to be the twilight zone... <b>Leighton Vander Esch (LB - Boise St)</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Minnesota Vikings - </b>The last Buckeye they drafted seems to be working out pretty well: <b>Billy Price (OT - Ohio State)</b></span></li>
<li><b>New England Patriots - </b>I'd personally<b> </b>prefer that this guy get drafted by another team, but it would fill a need and it meshes well with Coach BB's "swiss army knife" philosophy on defense. And in classic NE-style, they'll trade down and still get this guy: <b>Sam Hubbard (DE/OLB - Ohio State)</b>. </li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><b>Philadelphia Eagles - </b>I could pick anyone here and I'd be wrong: <b>Taven Bryan (DT - Florida)</b></span></li>
</ol>
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e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-83726784703160353202014-02-27T10:09:00.005-05:002014-02-27T10:09:52.811-05:00Recipe of the Day (RotD) - Bacon Wrapped ShrimpMore from the Kitchen Daily site. This looks too good to be true. Hello heart attack!<br />
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<a href="http://assets.kitchendaily.com/styles/large/s3/cocktail-shrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://assets.kitchendaily.com/styles/large/s3/cocktail-shrimp.jpg" height="328" width="640" /></a></div>
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INGREDIENTS</h2>
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SHRIMP</h2>
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<span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">2 tsp finely grated lemon zest</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">¼ cup fresh lemon juice</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">6 small jarred or dried Calabrian chiles, minced</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">20 jumbo shrimp, shelled with tails intact</span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;">10 slices of bacon, cut in half crosswise</span></div>
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DIRECTIONS</h2>
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<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Prepare the shrimp in a large baking dish, whisk the 1/2 cup of oil with the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic and chiles. Wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon and add to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour; turn the shrimp halfway through marinating.</li>
<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Light a grill or preheat a grill pan; brush with oil. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Grill over high heat, turning once, until the bacon is browned and the shrimp is just cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer the shrimp to a platter and serve with the cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.</li>
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<span style="background-color: white;">e-roc's twist: since I have no idea what Calabrian chiles are, I would recommend using red chili pepper flakes. If you have a sweet-tooth, I would imagine that a melted brown sugar + butter + ketchup + Worcestershire dipping sauce would be a nice compliment. Bon appetit!</span></div>
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e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-41138703522629454102014-02-17T10:27:00.002-05:002014-02-17T10:27:27.296-05:00Recipe of the Day (RotD) - Buffalo Cauliflower BitesI saw this on The Kitchen (one of my new favorite shows on the Food Network - great cast, great food, fun way to spend an hour), and I modified it for simplicity and healthiness.. I did a Google search and found this recipe which is the closest version I could find to what I did.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiK4_CQ9hcMoc2OLERC4EGLOc6WdUbvpNJ-t-KANSb4YViwLMyIVwiLjPUw3rpGIPu4kFxQmThOhR_KqkczTLnKkovkKnvIYcBXhML8KmZAmQx3IWlJVBMC4J72ZVl93oKs2GmM-CBfI/s1600/Hot-Buffalo-Cauliflower-Fritters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiK4_CQ9hcMoc2OLERC4EGLOc6WdUbvpNJ-t-KANSb4YViwLMyIVwiLjPUw3rpGIPu4kFxQmThOhR_KqkczTLnKkovkKnvIYcBXhML8KmZAmQx3IWlJVBMC4J72ZVl93oKs2GmM-CBfI/s1600/Hot-Buffalo-Cauliflower-Fritters.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>(props to SkinnyTaste.com for the picture and the recipe... lots of delicious, healthy recipes throughout the site)...</i><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites</b><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Servings:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 6 </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Size:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> about 1 cup cauliflower </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Old Points:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 2 pts</span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> • Points+:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 3 pts</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Calories:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 119.4 </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Fat:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 2 g </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Protein:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 4 g </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Carb: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">21.4 g </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Fiber:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> 3 g </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">• Sugar: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">0.2 g</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Sodium: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">1172 mg</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">1 cup water</li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">1 cup all purpose flour</li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">2 tsp garlic powder</li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">22 oz (6 1/2 cups) cauliflower florets</li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">3/4 cup Franks Hot Sauce</li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">1 tbsp melted unsalted butter</li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Directions:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Preheat</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> the oven to 450°F. Lightly </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">spray</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> a large non-stick baking sheet with oil.</span></li>
<li><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Combine</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> the water, flour, and garlic powder in a bowl and stir until well combined.</span></li>
<li><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Coat</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> the cauliflower pieces with the flour mixture and place on the baking sheet; bake for 20 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">While the cauliflower is baking, </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">combine</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> the hot sauce and butter in a small bowl.</span></li>
<li><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;">Pour</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.404001235961914px;"> the hot sauce mixture over the baked cauliflower and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b>e-roc's twist: </b>I didn't use flour or butter in my version and the hot sauce sticks just fine. I will probably add unsalted butter the next go-round. If you're making this as a dinner appetizer, Skinnytaste recommends a side of celery and dressing, which sounds quite delicious. Also, if you can't find cauliflower florets in your grocery store, chopping up a head of cauliflower the old fashioned way isn't the end of the world. I'm always looking for a good reason to pull out the butcher knife... Bon appetit!e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-48162369552081691632014-02-14T15:15:00.001-05:002014-02-14T15:15:50.523-05:00Recipe of the Day (RotD) - Steamed MusselsI've only ever tried to make mussels once and haven't done it more frequently primarily because of the lack of really great fresh seafood in central Ohio.. It's also a lot of work to debeard these damn things...<br />
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<i>Serve over pasta for extra nom nom nom nom... </i><br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 1.5em 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-decoration: inherit; z-index: 0;">
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">2 lb live mussels</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">1 Tbsp unsalted butter</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">3/4 cup white wine</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">1 chopped shallot</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">2 cloves chopped garlic</li>
</ul>
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Preparation:</h3>
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<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Scrub and debeard the mussels. The "beard" is the fibrous hairy thing hanging from one side of the tasty bivalve. Pull it off with a side-to-side motion.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
In case you are wondering, a mussel is alive if it reacts. Its shell should be closed. If it is open, sit the mussel on the kitchen counter for a bit. It may close when you are not looking.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Heat the butter over medium-high heat in a large, wide-bottomed pot with a lid; I use a Dutch oven. Saute the shallot until it is soft but not browned. Add the garlic and <span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">the white wine (I'd suggest a chenin blanc or something crisp, but you can use any decent white), and bring it to a boil. Add the mussels in one layer if possible.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Cover the pot and let the mussels steam for 3-8 minutes. After three minutes, check the mussels; many should be open. You want them all open, but some will do this faster than others.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Turn off the heat and cover for a minute while you prepare bowls and plates.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<span style="font-weight: inherit;">Spoon out plenty of mussels and broth, which should be briny enough to not need any more salt. </span><b>Throw out any mussels that did not open.</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Serve with crusty bread, more white wine -- and an extra bowl for the shells.</div>
</div>
e-roc's twist: for the lazier chef, grab a small bottle of pre-chopped garlic in olive oil, it'll save you a lot of time and money (unused garlic goes to waste quickly)... Also, always cook with wine that you would drink. Other things you can add to this recipe include: shrimp, scallops, and diced tomatoes...Bon appetit!<br />
<br />e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-91892546231211349302014-02-11T08:21:00.002-05:002014-02-11T08:22:04.158-05:00Recipe of the Day (RotD) - White Chicken ChiliFor the 2nd day in a row, the RotD...<br />
<br />
Today's recipe of the day (from Foodnetwork.com):<br />
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<b>Ingredients: (</b>Serves 8)</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken</li>
<li>2 (15 ounce) cans great northern beans</li>
<li>1 (15 ounce) can white corn</li>
<li>1 (1 1/4 ounce) envelope taco seasoning</li>
<li>1 (4 1/2 ounce) can of chopped green chilies</li>
<li>1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup</li>
<li>1 (14 ounce) can chicken broth</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Place chicken in a 4 quart slow cooker.</li>
<li>Top with beans and corn.</li>
<li>In a medium bowl, combine taco seasoning, chiles, condensed soup, and chicken broth. Pour over top of ingredients in the crock pot.</li>
<li>Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.</li>
<li>Before serving, stir gently to break up chicken, then stir in the sour cream.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
e-roc's twist: Instead of using an envelope of taco seasoning, I usually make my own taco mix (less salt, more heat). I add in a 4 1/2oz can of chopped jalapeno's for heat and use frozen corn instead of canned corn and I'm always heavy with the amount of corn I use. Perfect sides for this chili include: Fritos scoops and cornbread. Bon appetit!e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-21394778189518632802014-02-10T11:39:00.000-05:002014-02-10T11:39:01.424-05:00Recipe of the Day (RotD)I'm a foodie with distant unattainable cooking aspirations. I love watching the Food Network and Top Chef. The food they prepare is amazing to me. The best I can do at the moment and be an above average home chef who knows how to make good scrambled eggs, pan seared salmon, and chicken & chorizo paella.<br />
<br />
It hit me this morning that I should start to post/share a Recipe of the Day, if for at a minimum, my own benefit. Hopefully this will still be something I do in January 2015...<br />
<br />
Today's recipe of the day (from KitchenDaily.com):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://assets.kitchendaily.com/styles/large/s3/campbells-green-bean-casserole.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://assets.kitchendaily.com/styles/large/s3/campbells-green-bean-casserole.jpeg" height="164" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="ingredients-wrap" style="background-color: #f9fbf7; color: #525949; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25.049999237060547px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>INGREDIENTS</b></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">vegetable cooking spray</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 cup cooked cut green beans</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 can (10 3/4 ounces each) Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (Regular or 98% Fat Free)</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">½ cup milk</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 can (2.8 ounces) French's® French Fried Onions (about 1 1/3 cups)</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese</span></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="display: block; padding-left: 25px; text-indent: -25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">32 oz refrigerated jumbo buttermilk biscuits (16 biscuits, or 2 packages)</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">DIRECTIONS</span><br />
<ul>
<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heat the oven to 375°F. Spray 16 (2 1/2-inch) muffin-pan cups with the cooking spray. Stir the green beans, soup, milk, 1 cup cheese and 2/3 cup onions in a large bowl.</span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Roll each biscuit into a 4-inch circle. Press the biscuit circles into the bottoms and up the sides of the muffin-pan cups. Divide the green bean mixture among the biscuit cups.</span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake for 20 minutes or until the biscuit cups are golden brown. Stir the remaining cheese and onions in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the green bean mixture.</span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Let the minis cool in the pans on wire racks for 5 minutes.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
e-roc's twist: I would swap out the buttermilk biscuits for cornbread mix. Cornbread mix is very tacky and the casserole mixture should hold inside the cornbread without getting too messy. Don't forget the cooking spray. I would also skip the cheddar cheese. I don't put cheese on my large green bean casseroles, so I can't imagine wanting them on the mini version. </div>
</div>
e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-89447582234109042522013-03-15T09:04:00.002-04:002013-03-15T09:04:59.872-04:002013 Mock Draft (updated 3/15)<br />
This mock draft has been updated for your mockery.<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kansas City Chiefs - Luke Joeckel, OT (TAMU) - So they traded for Alex Smith... While I don't believe that he's any better than the incumbent Matt Cassel, Joeckel might actually give Alex Smith some more time to stand in the pocket... and eventually get sacked or throw the ball in the dirt.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Arizona Cardinals (trade w/JAX) - Geno Smith, QB (WVU) - Four names that Larry Fitzgerald has nightmares about. Kolb, Skelton, Lindley, Drew Stanton. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Oakland Raiders - Dion Jordan, DE (Oregon) - RIP Al Davis, but I'm confident that the Raiders won't let me down here and will take a guy who had great measurables at the combine. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Philadelphia Eagles (trade from JAX) - Eric Fisher, OT (WMU) - If the Eagles draft any player besides an OL, I'll be shocked and appalled... And consequently, I would expect Chip Kelly to be gone within two years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Detroit Lions - Dee Milliner, CB (Bama) - I watched the Detroit Lions lose more games by giving up huge 3rd down passing conversions. Spivey will hopefully return from IR to shore up the safety position. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cleveland Browns - Cordarelle Patterson, WR (UT) - With Paul Kruger signed at the OLB spot and the team focusing on FA defensive backs, they need to fill the gaping hole on offense called Wide Receiver. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jacksonville Jags (trade w/AZ) - Jarvis Jones, LB (UGA) - QUICK! Name one outside linebacker on the Jaguars' roster. Couldn't do it huh? They need a huge upgrade at LB and could easily trade further down and still make this pick. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Buffalo Bills - Matt Barkley QB (USC) - This draft pick is one of need. He's going to be another USC-alumni QB bust in the NFL. Geno is gone and the Bills are terribly desperate; terrible and desperate.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NY Jets - Keenan Allen, WR (CAL) - Sanchez has no one to throw the ball to. Here's a guy in the mold of TO who can get it done. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tennessee Titans - Shariff Floyd, DT (UF) - He's the best player available and fits the Titans 4-3 scheme.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">San Diego Chargers - Lane Johnson, OT (OU) - Red rover, red rover, send a friggin' offensive lineman right over. As a fantasy owner of Phillip Rivers, I watched #17 running for his life and throwing off his ass every weekend.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Miami Dolphins - Xavier Rhodes, DB (FSU) - With Mike Wallace signed and Hartline extended, I expect the Fins to address a Swiss-cheese like secondary.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tampa Bay Bucs - Bjoern Werner, DE (FSU) - I have no idea who any of the TB defensive ends are, so I know they can't be very good. Bucs will need to address secondary in the next couple rounds. The Bucs personnel coordinator should follow up a solid 2012 draft with an equally solid 2013 draft.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Carolina Panthers - Barkevious Mingo, LB (LSU) - First of all, this guy sounds like he came off Key & Peele's All-Star game roster. Second of all, putting Mingo next to Kuechly is reminiscent of the Panthers' glory days with Dan Morgan and Will Witherspoon. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">New Orleans Saints - Johnathan Hankins, DT (OSU) - This is more or less a homer pick, but I think the Saints like defensive players from Ohio State (see: Malcolm Jenkins & Will Smith). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">St. Louis Rams - Star Lotulelei, DT (Utah) - Maybe a reach? If the Rams come to terms with Jake Long (scUM), I think it makes sense that they address the defense..</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pittsburgh Steelers - Johnathan Banks, DB (MissSt) - Steelers could take another offensive lineman or a linebacker here, but my guess is they'll try to clean up some of the mess in the back four first..</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dallas Cowboys - Chance Warmack, OG (Bama) - O-line or linebacker. I'm pretty sure this guy will be the next best player available. Jerry Jones might do (and will do) something stupid so I won't be surprised if he drafts Collin Klein.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NY Giants - Manti T'eo, ILB (ND) - I hear the Giants need a new linebacker.... Defense looked like a shell of itself in 2012. I wonder how many catfish live in NYC?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chicago Bears - Johnathan Cooper, OG (UNC) - see SD Chargers above. Jay Cutler needs someone to protect him from Suh.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Baltimore Ravens (trade from STL) - Eric Reid, SS (LSU) - We all know how important Ed Reed is to the Baltimore defense... Sounds too easy to just bring in another Reid, right?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Minnesota Vikings - Desmond Trufant, DB (Wash) - Another Swiss-cheese secondary. Vikes are making moves in the FA market, but that also included releasing cornerstone (pun intended) Antoine Winfield.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cincinnati Bengals - Kenny Vaccaro, S (Texas) - 1st round is too high to draft a RB or any of the remaining OTs... maybe they can trade down and reach for one late. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Indianapolis Colts - Datone Jones, DE (UCLA) - Lots of holes on the defensive side of the ball... Can Jones be the next Dwight Freeney?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Seattle Seahawks - Sheldon Richardson, DT (Mizzou) - He goes here due to a major oversight on my part.. and the Seahawks DEF gets even better.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">St. Louis Rams (trade from BAL)- Alec Olgetree, LB (UGA) - This is the Rams 2nd pick in the first round... Olgetree would be a nice addition to go with Little Animal. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Green Bay Packers - Barrett Jones, C (Bama) - It's time for Jeff Saturday to retire. Bye bye.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">SF 49ers - Matt Elam, FS (UF) - because the rich get richer. It's what happens. Not sure what other pieces the 49ers really need... and they have a TON of picks.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Houston Texans - Jonathan Cooper, OG (UNC) - I watched Arian Foster run great on one side of the ball and crappy on the other.. That only means one thing... </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NE Patriots - Robert Woods, WR (USC) - Bill B. is a draft day enigma or a 100-sided die... I'm going to say WR for fun. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Denver Broncos - Kawaan Short, DT (Purdue) - I know Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller.... and that's about it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Atlanta Falcons - Kevin Minter, LB (LSU) - Akeem Dent plays MLB now and had 42 solo tackles on the year. That's pretty pathetic...</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dart throwing predictions...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Offensive Rook of the Year: Geno Smith</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Defensive Rook of the Year: </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Barkevious Mingo</span></div>
e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-19817175397918450182013-01-03T14:52:00.000-05:002013-01-03T14:52:05.751-05:002013 NFL Mock (me) DraftKeeping up with tradition, I've decided to take a wild swing at the upcoming (April) 2013 NFL draft. Mock me, please.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kansas City Chiefs - Geno Smith, QB (WVU) - If the Chiefs draft anything but a QB (unless they pick up someone via FA), we might as well go ahead and slot them here for the 2014 draft as well. Obviously Matt Cassell and Brady Quinn can't get the job done. Helen Keller could make this pick. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Philadelphia Eagles (trade from JAX) - Luke Joeckel, OT (TAMU) - The greatest position of need (by far) and the Eagles can't afford to miss out on him. Other mock drafts indicate a good amount of draft depth at this position, but franchise LTs don't come along every year. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Oakland Raiders - Bjoern Werner, DE (FSU) - RIP Al Davis, but I'm confident that the Raiders won't let me down here and will take a guy who should have great measurables at the combine. He's the next JJ Watt. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jacksonville Jags (trade from PHI) - Jarvis Jones, LB (UGA) - QUICK! Name one outside linebacker on the Jaguars' roster. Couldn't do it huh? They need a huge upgrade at LB and could easily trade down and still make this pick. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Detroit Lions - Dee Milliner, CB (Bama) - I watched the Detroit Lions lose more games by giving up huge 3rd down passing conversions. Spivey will hopefully return from IR to shore up the safety position. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cleveland Browns - Tavon Austin, WR (WVU) It's too bad there isn't a true Top 10 WR available (i.e. Julio Jones or AJ Green) because the glaring lack of playmakers on this offense is the biggest area of need. The defense proved it can hold its own when it needs to. New management stretches to fill the spot (Austin will probably run a 4.28).. and hopefully it works out.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Arizona Cardinals - Tyler Wilson, QB (ARK) - Three names that Larry Fitzgerald has nightmares about. Kolb, Skelton, Lindley. IMO Wilson is a better prospect than Barkley...</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Buffalo Bills - Damontre Moore, DE (TAMU) - I honestly don't know much about this guy, but what I do know, is that Mario Williams and the Bills DEF were both MIA in 2012. The Bills wait until the 2nd Round to draft a QB from their backyard (Ryan Nassib, Syracuse).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NY Jets - Keenan Allen, WR (CAL) - Sanchez has no one to throw the ball to. Here's a guy in the mold of TO who can get it done. Defense looks even better with Revis back from injury island. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tennessee Titans - Star Lotulelei, DT (Utah) - I saw this man child eat up the 4 & 5 star USC OL on national TV. I presume that he'll be able to do the same in the pros, that is, if he doesn't take plays off. Plays with a tremendous motor (and emotion) but conditioning might be the main issue at 350lbs. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">San Diego Chargers - Jake Matthews, OT (TAMU) - Red rover, red rover, send a friggin' offensive lineman right over. As an owner of Phillip Rivers, I constantly watched #17 running for his life and throwing off his ass.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Miami Dolphins - Xavier Rhodes, DB (FSU) - With Allen and Austin both off the board, I expect the Fins to fix a Swiss-cheese like secondary.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tampa Bay Bucs - Manti Te'o, LB (ND) - I have no idea who Mason Foster is, but I know he's not very good. Bucs will need to address secondary in the next couple rounds. The Bucs personnel coordinator should follow up a solid 2012 draft with an equally solid 2013 draft.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Carolina Panthers - Barkevious Mingo, LB (LSU) - First of all, this guy sounds like he came off Key & Peele's All-Star game roster. Second of all, putting Mingo next to Kuechly is reminiscent of the Panthers' glory days with Dan Morgan and Will Witherspoon. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">New Orleans Saints - Johnathan Hankins, DT (OSU) - This is more or less a homer pick, but I think the Saints like defensive players from Ohio State (see: Malcolm Jenkins & Will Smith). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">St. Louis Rams - Taylor Lewan, OT (scUM) - I watched Lewan get pwned by Jadeveon Clowney on New Year's Day, but somehow this pick still make sense. Sam Bradford should be a happy camper this summer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pittsburgh Steelers - Johnathan Banks, DB (MissSt) - Steelers could take another offensive lineman or a linebacker here, but my guess is they'll try to clean up some of the mess in the back four first..</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dallas Cowboys - Chance Warmack, OG (Bama) - O-line or linebacker. I'm pretty sure this guy will be the next best player available. Jerry Jones might do (and will do) something stupid so I won't be surprised if he drafts Collin Klein.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NY Giants - Khaseem Green, OLB (Rutgers) - I hear the Giants need a new linebacker.... Defense looked like a shell of itself in 2012.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chicago Bears - Eric Fisher, OT (Central Michigan) - see SD Chargers above. Jay Cutler needs someone to protect him from Suh.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Baltimore Ravens (trade from STL) - Eric Reid, SS (LSU) - We all know how important Ed Reed is to the Baltimore defense... Sounds too easy to just bring in another Reid, right?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Minnesota Vikings - Cordarrelle Patterson, WR (Tenn) - I've read three mock drafts that all have Patterson going to the Vikings. I'm going to play copy-cat here.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cincinnati Bengals - Ezekiel Ansah, DE (BYU) - Mike Brown is a cheapskate who won't resign FA Michael Johnson even though he had a tremendous year. This kid is relentless.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Indianapolis Colts - Matt Elam, SS (UF) - if he can be the next Bob Sanders, sans injury bug, Pagano will have his leader in the secondary for years to come.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Seattle Seahawks - Sheldon Richardson, DT (Mizzou) - He goes here due to a major oversight on my part.. and the Seahawks DEF gets even better.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">St. Louis Rams (trade from BAL)- Arthur Brown, LB (K-State) - This is the Rams 2nd pick in the first round... Brown would be a nice addition to go with Little Animal. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Green Bay Packers - Barrett Jones, C (Bama) - It's time for Jeff Saturday to retire. Bye bye.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">SF 49ers - Sharrif Floyd, DT (UF) - because the rich get richer. It's what happens. Not sure what other pieces the 49ers really need.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Houston Texans - Jonathan Cooper, OG (UNC) - I watched Arian Foster run great on one side of the ball and crappy on the other.. That only means one thing... </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">NE Patriots - Robert Woods, WR (USC) - Bill B. is a draft day enigma or a 100-sided die... I'm going to say WR for fun. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Denver Broncos - Jesse Williams, DT (Bama) - I know Elvis Dumervil.... and that's about it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Atlanta Falcons - Kevin Minter, LB (LSU) - Akeem Dent plays MLB now and had 42 solo tackles on the year. That's pretty pathetic...</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dart throwing predictions...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Offensive Rook of the Year: Geno Smith</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Defensive Rook of the Year: </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Barkevious Mingo</span></div>
e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-36518278632693744202012-09-17T08:32:00.000-04:002012-09-17T08:32:25.235-04:00Monday. Gross.I'm sure I'm one of several million people in America right now suffering from a Fantasy Football hangover or just woke up from sleeping with a Fantasy Football butterface. You're feeling an great level of regret and might even feel a little sick to your stomach. You wish you would have drafted better (+ 2 weeks ago), or you're lamenting the failure to start the right player. As a bonus, you probably thought that going with the no-brainer pick (New England) in a survivor league would be painless. Turns out, the no-brainer pick was a shot of bad tequila and everyone lost. You still have a bad taste in your mouth. It's about this time that I say I'm not playing any sort of Fantasy Football next year. But inevitably I'll be back... Maybe my Wes Welker pick won't kill me in the end - it is after all, only week 2...e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-57394736884788068042012-09-11T08:58:00.001-04:002012-09-11T08:58:15.493-04:00It's Time For Lessons<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>9-11</b>. I don't have an amazing story to tell. I was fortunate to not lose a loved one from the horrific events of September 11, 2001. But I do sympathize with all who did as their lives were forever changed. It was about 8:50am and I was driving to work listening to 99.7 The Blitz. Instead of hearing Howard Stern talk about music, drugs or sex, I found myself listening to a news broadcast about a helicopter crashing into the Pentagon. About 10 minutes later, as I pulled into the Tuttle Crossing Mall parking lot, the commentary switched over to a panicked news reporter. A plane had just hit the World Trade Center. To me, the moments unfolded like a Steve Berry fictional novel and it wasn't until I saw the images on the TGIFriday's TV that I believed what I had heard. I was sent home from work that day because the mall closed for security reasons. I spent the rest of the day watching it all over and over again on TV. That's where I was 11 years ago.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Me Myself & I.</b> While I'm fully confident that no one I know reads this unvisited blog, I'm glad I have a place to mine my thoughts and boggled ideas. The internet won't judge you (unless you allow comments) or poke fun at you for making a stupid face.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0Or7tuMiV9FOHmXGfChQlBOUaLQAnrhnPbl3MSJ9EKwTqb32T9a9ahCrpo3-_NtVRNBgKAYdzmIyJdNgBNfnBaVMc92OuNuIDPMv2tWQxe4ucSAb_50TW4wAniPVbarYZQkMwp5nsjY/s1600/pisa2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0Or7tuMiV9FOHmXGfChQlBOUaLQAnrhnPbl3MSJ9EKwTqb32T9a9ahCrpo3-_NtVRNBgKAYdzmIyJdNgBNfnBaVMc92OuNuIDPMv2tWQxe4ucSAb_50TW4wAniPVbarYZQkMwp5nsjY/s200/pisa2.jpg" width="182" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>If You Can't Get Off The Tee. </b>I need golf lessons. Again. With a private instructor. It's arguably the most frustrating game/activity/hobby I know, yet, I manage to be addicted to it even though I'm absolutely terrible. Yesterday was mostly a shit-show, hitting zero fairways and finding a way to lose 8 balls during a scramble. My long irons were akin to foul balls and grounders. On the bright side (which is what always brings me back, like a bad drug), my short game, save two shots, was actually impressive, even for my standards. The wedges were dialed in. One of these days I'll put it all back together like I did one time three years ago and shoot an 84 again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">But I do enjoy the attire. I rock these. Admit it. You're jealous. I wish they came in red though... Urban Meyer would disapprove of the blue.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Bleeding Scarlet Profusely. </b>ESPN All-Access and ESPN Training Camp were like delicious Iron Chef prepared appetizers for the 2012 Ohio State Football season. After two games against better-than-our-usual-cupcake opponents, I've seen flashes of greatness, and flashes of brains farting. The team is like the Master Chef contestant who absolutely kills it and scores an advantage for the next round, who then goes and burns their quiche or fails to season their steak. Like the vast majority of die-hard, and educated Buckeye fans, I'm still waiting for the defense to jell. The D-Line is good, but not the immovable dominating force that they've been hyped up to be. The linebacker crew looks lost at times, as if thinking too much, and reacting too little. I imagine a bubble thought to appear with the text "Run or pass? Man or Cover 3? RB, TE or shit, I'm the spy". The defensive backs are as talented and athletic group that I've been in the tOSU back four since the days of Gamble, Fox, Nickey and Doss. The problem is they don't have a field general to MAKE SURE there aren't wildly missed assignments that go for big plays. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My take on the offense is simple. Braxton Miller. His decision-making (and health) is going to make or break this team. Here's to hoping that Urbs and Hinton get him mentally right before the Big10 season kicks off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>End. </b>I couldn't think of a creative way to conclude this entry. </span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-2173610756435788892012-09-11T08:06:00.003-04:002012-09-11T08:06:53.005-04:00In Review: My NFL Draft - Way Too Early Predictions <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #e0e0e0; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19.5px;">But hell, I'll probably STILL do better than Toad McShay or those clowns at SI.com....</span><div style="background-color: #e0e0e0; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">
<ul style="list-style: none; margin-left: 10px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/tictac_blue/tictac_blue.gif); background-position: 0% 6px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; list-style: none; margin-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cam Newton will be a bust in the NFL, a la Ryan Leaf, JaMarcus Russell, and Akili Smith. One-year, one-hit wonder out of a wacky college offense.</span></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/tictac_blue/tictac_blue.gif); background-position: 0% 6px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; list-style: none; margin-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cameron Heyward will be a steal in the draft and will get drafted by a Super Bowl contender.</span></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/tictac_blue/tictac_blue.gif); background-position: 0% 6px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; list-style: none; margin-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Jake Locker or Andy Dalton will win a Super Bowl in the next five years.</span></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/tictac_blue/tictac_blue.gif); background-position: 0% 6px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; list-style: none; margin-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Next Year's Offensive Rookie POY will be..... Mark Ingram.</span></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/tictac_blue/tictac_blue.gif); background-position: 0% 6px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; list-style: none; margin-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Next Year's Defensive Rookie POY will be..... Patrick Peterson.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I think I went 1/4, with one prediction still alive. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wrong - So far, Newton has proved me completely wrong. I suppose the difference is the fact that Newton had a good coach behind him and mind-blowing running ability.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Right - Heyward is starting as a 2nd-year pro and the Steelers are Super Bowl contenders every year.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pending - Dalton has a chance. Locker does not.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wrong - This one goes to Cam "Pockets full of gold figs" Newton</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wrong - Although P2 would have finished 3rd... Von Miller ran amuck and won this one.</span></li>
</ul>
e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-34380150751084688102011-04-28T18:52:00.003-04:002011-04-28T19:05:18.498-04:00NFL Draft - Way Too Early Predictions<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">But hell, I'll probably STILL do better than Toad McShay or those clowns at SI.com....</span><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Cam Newton will be a bust in the NFL, a la Ryan Leaf, JaMarcus Russell, and Akili Smith. One-year, one-hit wonder out of a wacky college offense.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Cameron Heyward will be a steal in the draft and will get drafted by a Super Bowl contender.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Jake Locker or Andy Dalton will win a Super Bowl in the next five years.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Next Year's Offensive Rookie POY will be..... Mark Ingram.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Next Year's Defensive Rookie POY will be..... Patrick Peterson.</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Okthxbye.</span></div></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-48928713316622847982011-02-10T12:10:00.003-05:002011-02-10T12:15:34.749-05:002011 NFL Mock Draft<span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-size:85%;">First post in forever... and apparently Blogger doesn't support tables...<br /><br />2011 NFL Mock Draft - Round One</span><br /><br /></span> <table width="485" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><col style="width: 160pt;" width="213"> <col style="width: 107pt;" width="142"> <col style="width: 39pt;" width="52"> <col style="width: 59pt;" width="78"> <tbody><tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl67" style="height: 18pt; width: 160pt;" width="213" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;">Round 1</span></td> <td class="xl67" style="width: 107pt;" width="142"><span style="font-size:78%;">Player</span></td> <td class="xl68" style="width: 39pt;" width="52"><span style="font-size:78%;">Pos</span></td> <td class="xl68" style="width: 59pt;" width="78"><span style="font-size:78%;">School</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>1. Carolina (2-14)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Nick Fairley</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">AUB</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>2. Denver (4-12)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Patrick Peterson</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">LSU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>3. Buffalo (4-12)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">TRADE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">x</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">x</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl69" style="height: 18pt; text-align: right;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;">trade to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cleveland</span> <br /></span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">AJ Green</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">WR</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">UGA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>4. Cincinnati (4-12)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Da'Quan Bowers</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CLEM</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>5. Arizona (5-11)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Blaine Gabbert</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">QB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">MIZZOU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>6. Cleveland (5-11)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">TRADE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">x</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">x</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl69" style="height: 18pt; text-align: right;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;">trade to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buffalo</span> (+3rd Rd Pick) <br /></span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Marcell Dareus</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DL</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">BAMA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>7. San Francisco (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Ryan Mallett</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">QB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">ARK</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>8. Tennessee (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Von Miller</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">LB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">TAMU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>9. Dallas (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Prince Amukamara</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">NEB</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>10. Washington (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Robert Quinn</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">UNC</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>11. Houston (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Aldon Smith</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">LB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">MIZZOU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>12. Minnesota (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Cam Newton</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">QB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">AUB</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>13. Detroit (6-10)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Derek Sherrod</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">MSU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>14. St. Louis (7-9)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Julio Jones</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">WR</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">BAMA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>15. Miami (7-9)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Mark Ingram</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">RB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">BAMA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>16. Jacksonville (8-8)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Brandon Harris</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">UM</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>17. New England (8-8)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Ryan Kerrigan</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">PUR</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>18. San Diego (9-7)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Akeem Ayers</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">LB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">UCLA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>19. New York Giants (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Stephen Paea</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">ORST</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>20. Tampa Bay (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Adrian Clayborn</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">IOWA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>21. Kansas City* (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Anthony Castonzo</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">BC</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>22. Indianapolis* (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Nate Solder</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>23. Philadelphia* (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Gabe Carimi</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">WIS</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>24. New Orleans* (11-5)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Aaron Williams</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">TEX</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>25. Seattle* (7-9)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">JJ Watt</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DE</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">WIS</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>26. Baltimore* (12-4)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Jonathon Baldwin</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">WR</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">PIT</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>27. Atlanta* (13-3)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Jimmy Smith</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">CU</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>28. New England* (14-2)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Martez Wilson</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">LB</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">ILL</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>29. Chicago* (11-5)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Quinton Carter</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">FS</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OKLA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>30. New York Jets* (11-5)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Corey Liuget</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">DT</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">ILL</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>31. Pittsburgh* (12-4)<span style=""> </span></span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Mike Pouncey</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OG</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">FLA</span></td> </tr> <tr style="height: 18pt;" height="24"> <td class="xl65" style="height: 18pt;" height="24"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style=""> </span>32. Green Bay* (10-6)</span></td> <td class="xl65"><span style="font-size:78%;">Rodney Hudson</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">OG</span></td> <td class="xl66"><span style="font-size:78%;">FSU</span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-90342766605906032862010-01-05T09:56:00.007-05:002010-01-19T08:11:59.941-05:00January 19, 2009 - Mock Draft IIThe players haven't run the overrated 40 yard dash. Heck, the BS (er, BCS) Championship Game hasn't been played and a slew of juniors haven't officially declared yet, but rather than rant and comment on other terrible mock drafts (see Todd McShay, aka Toad McShortdick), I'm going to throw a few darts and offer up my own mock.<br /><br /><ol><li>St. Louis - Ndamukong Suh (DT, Nebraska) - Consensus #1 who will benefit from the likes of Chris Long and fellow former Cornhusker Adam Carriker. I don't mind that it's going to help Laurinaitus improve as well.<br /></li><li>Detroit - Eric Berry (S, Tennessee) - What is the fascination with Gerald McCoy? I don't get it. Berry will perform well at the combine and go #2 overall. Game changers like Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu and Bob Sanders are few and far between. Berry fits the bill.<br /></li><li>Tampa Bay - Dez Bryant (WR, Okie State) - It's not inconceivable that the Bucs will trade up to get Berry, but assuming Berry is off the board, Bryant fills a needs to run opposite (or in place of) the oft-injured Antonio Bryant. You want Freeman to continue to improve, right?<br /></li><li>Washington - Russell Okung (OT, Okie State) - The offensive line is old and offensive. Your QB can succeed if he's not always on his back. He replaces the recently retired, Leonard Davis.<br /></li><li>Kansas City - Gerald McCoy (DT, Oklahoma) - I was torn between a DT and a CB, but when it came down to it, McCoy was the answer considering the 3-4 scheme and follows suit with the other two DLs that KC has drafted over the past two seasons.<br /></li><li>Seattle - Jimmy Clausen (QB, Notre Dame) - Goodbye Hasselbeck.</li><li>Cleveland - Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama) - A big name LB to add to a mostly no-name LB group. Trusnik? Really?<br /></li><li>Oakland - CJ Spiller (RB, Clemson) - The logic here: Al Davis drafts the fastest player in the draft. Any other player would make too much sense.<br /></li><li>Buffalo - Anthony Davis (OT, Rutgers) - The Bills need help up front. The talking-heads that say the Bills need a CB should note that the Bills had a strong pass-defense this year with their current roster. Not to mention, they'll get McKelvin and McGee back from IR.<br /></li><li>Jacksonville -Joe Haden (CB, Florida) - When you play Indy and Houston twice a year, you need more than one shut-down corner.<br /></li><li>Denver - Brian Price (DT, UCLA) - help for a defense that got run the fugg over by the KC Chiefs. How embarrassing.<br /></li><li>Miami - Derrick Morgan (DE, Georgia Tech) - Not sure which DE they pick, but I'm confident they'll be looking to replace Jason Taylor.<br /></li><li>San Francisco - Taylor Mays (S, USC) - I'm not 100% sure how this fits, but to me, it just works. </li><li>Seattle - Brandon Spikes (LB, Florida) - It's only fair that the defense gets a new QB as well.<br /></li><li>NYGiants - Dan Williams (DT, Tennesse) - Could I see the G-men selecting a LB instead? Absolutely.<br /></li><li>Tennessee - Brandon Graham (DE, Michigan) - A player who will help generate a pass-rush in a division where it's a necessity.<br /></li><li>San Francisco - Terrance Cody (DT, Alabama) - A massive DT who will benefit from Singletary's tutlage.<br /></li><li>Pittsburgh - Patrick Robinson (DB, Florida State) - Based on feedback from Steelers fans, this pick should be a DB...<br /></li><li>Atlanta - Ricky Sapp (LB, Clemson) - I can't name ONE Atlanta LB... Can you?<br /></li><li>Houston - Golden Tate (WR, Notre Dame) - This is a shot in the dark, but it would immediately make Houston one of the most feared offenses in the AFC.<br /></li><li>Cincinnati - Mardy Gilyard (WR, Cincinnati) - The Bengals keep this flash in a pan in Ocho Cinco's neighborhood. The Bengals will not, I repeat, not draft a TE in the first round.<br /></li><li>New England - Navarro Bowman (LB, Penn State) - The Pats pick a LB... but which one? Maybe Sergio Kindle? Sean Witherspoon?</li><li>Green Bay - Jon Asamoah (OG, Illinois) - A boring but solid choice due to needs.<br /></li><li>Philadelphia - Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida) - Could also line up at DT and is a steal at 24.</li><li>Baltimore - Arrelious Benn (WR, Illinois) - WR has been a need for years... 2010 is no different. If he's here, the Ravens will take him.<br /></li><li>Arizona - Jerry Hughes (DE, TCU) - Some other publication said he's a good fit for 3-4... which is what they run in AZ.</li><li>San Diego - Sergio Kindle (LB, Texas) - personally, I think Merriman will be escorted from SD in the near future.</li><li>Dallas -Bruce Campbell (OT, Maryland) - stole this from another publication. Cowboys seem to be pretty decent at all other positions.<br /></li><li>NYJets - Jason Pierre-Paul (DE, South Florida) - Another toy for Rex Ryan to play with on defense.<br /></li><li>Minnesota - Earl Thomas (CB, Texas) - Antoine is getting a little old...</li><li>New Orleans - Kyle Wilson (CB, Boise State) - whoever thinks NO needs another WR is smoking crack. Or doing qualudes.<br /></li><li>Indianapolis - Daryl Washington (LB, TCU) - regardless of position, this will be a defensive pick... </li></ol>**Editor's Note: This could be the first year since 2005 that a Buckeye isn't drafted in the First Round...e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-44615366210817440802009-06-04T10:33:00.002-04:002009-06-04T10:36:19.181-04:00Bakers shoes defined, according to Layne...<div style="text-align: justify;font-family:georgia;"><span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125);font-size:85%;" >You don’t know bakers? They are like the Ferrari of shoes, no scratch that if Ferrari and Lamborghini had a baby and it was a shoe that would be the baker shoe. If you went to a jewelry store and you saw a Rolex watch that would be the equivalent to going into a shoe store and seeing bakers.<br /><br />Bakers are like the Argentinean filet of the steak world. The Bellagio of the Vegas world. The Steelers combined with the patriots of the football world. The 2003 Yankees and the 2008 red socks of the baseball world. The Michael Jordan and Lebron James of the basketball world. The gouda cheese of the cheese world.<br /><br />They are the Merrill Lynch, Nationwide, PwC of the corporate world. The Nike of the non-dress shoe world. The Wal-Mart of the retail world. The blue whale of the whale world, the great white of the shark world. The iPhone of the cell phone world. It’s like Paris of the fashion world. The Edward of the Liu world. The Nolan Ryan of the pitching world, the Robert Horry of the big shot world.<br /><br />They are the Tiger of the golf world, the Roger Federer of the tennis world, the taco Doritos of the Doritos world. The wondering spider of the poisonous spider world. The blue cotton candy in the cotton candy world. They are the Bill Gates of the CEO world, the Warren Buffet of the finance world. It would be like if Prada and coach handbags had a baby and it was infinitely times cooler than its parents.</span></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-90586408349574082752009-05-04T12:59:00.002-04:002009-05-04T13:20:13.472-04:00My Buckeye Wish List<span style="font-size:85%;">I</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> know it's May... and the Ohio State football season doesn't officially start for another 3+ months, but I have conjured up an early wish list based on the Spring Game (glorified practice) and other blogs that I've stumbled upon recently... I recall writing up a similar post prior to last season, so hopefully this doesn't sound too repetitive.. Without further ado, my Buckeye wish-list!<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;">The 3-4 Defense: let's call up Dick LeBeau and figure out how to use the 3-4 in every situation... even against those pansy, bitchassness teams that send 5-WR on the field for every play.. I'm talking about YOU Pur-don't. We know we're not rock solid at the corner position, so why not throw down with four, mean, nasty LBs... Some beautiful combination of Spitler, Homan, Moeller, Sabino, Rolle, and Hines... It would be kisstastic to see Heyward, Gibson and Wilson on the line... Too bad we don't have a monster DT...</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Pryor Unleashed: why Tressel seemingly wants to contain a rabid dog is disturbing... but what do I know? I'm not the one making millions of dollars here. Pryor is an animal waiting for its first meal (*waving* Hi, Navy!). Apparently he showed much improved accuracy during the Spring Game... and all this talk about arm strength is overrated.. He had arm-strength before he got to college, he just didn't have CONFIDENCE in throwing the ball. A greater understanding of the offense will promote his success this season, whereby last season, he was just trying to manage games... Another year in the weight room and he might look like Bron-Bron on the football field...<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">DeVier Posey mutates into David Boston II: he's got the size and speed to burn... Now he just needs to pull a Julio Jones/AJ Green impersonation with numero ocho on his back and turn in a monster season... Deep threats stretch the field... Robo and Hartline were not deep threats.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Healthy AA, Andre Amos: a full, healthy, productive season from AA... Kid was a stud coming out of HS... I'd like for him to be able to leave OSU as an NFL prospect and a strong senior year ala Antonio Smith.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Depants USCum: We've got scUM and USCum... I watched helplessly as our beloved Buckeyes were embarrased by Dirty Sanchez... Here's to TP returning the favor. Yes Taylor Mays, he's bigger than you.<br /></span></li></ul>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-21180326554477428262009-04-27T08:50:00.003-04:002009-04-27T09:22:02.849-04:00Re: Buckeye Draft Projections<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Projections (from March 4) and <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">where they actually went in </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">RED</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> over the weekend</span>. I should be a Draftnik. Kiper & McShay, eat your heart out!<br /></span><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Malcolm Jenkins (CB) - First Round. Top 15 overall. - <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">CORRECT! Round 1, #14 to the Saints. I think this is where he "should have" gone... If the Saints didn't get him at 14, my guess is that the Texans would have picked him off at 15. I wonder if Madden 2010 will have Jenkins listed as an FS...</span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Chris "Beanie" Wells (RB) - First Round. Late pick, somewhere between Picks 20 and 32. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- CORRECT! Round 1, #30 to the Cardinals. Ken Wisenhunt now has a viable RB to go with the aerial attack of Fitzgerald and Boldin... If he stays healthy, Beanie is going to have a monster year. I can't remember the last time the Cardinals had a real RB.</span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">James Laurinaitis (LB) - Second Round. Early in the round, somewhere between Picks 33 and 50. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- CORRECT! Round 2, #35 overall to the Rams. I would have preferred to see Little Animal in a team that I'm more likely to follow, but he should have no problem securing a starting spot with the Rams.</span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Brian Robiskie (WR) - Second/Third Round. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">CORRECT! Round 2, #36 overall to the Browns. Good for Robo! He should have no problem becoming the possession WR that the Browns had with a healthy Joe Jurevicius.</span><br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Marcus Freeman (LB) - Second/Third Round. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- WRONG! Round 5, #152 overall to 'da Bears. I'm not sure why he fell this far on everyone's boards... But he landed with a great team that will probably have a monster 2009-2010 campaign with Cutler at the reigns. </span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Brian Hartline (WR) - Fourth/Fifth Round. - <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">CORRECT! Round 4, # 108 overall to the Fins. With all the rumors surrounding Hartline as a locker-room virus, I was glad to see him find a home with a team that's heading in the right direction... Hopefully he works his tail off and secures himself some playing time next to TGII.</span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Donald Washington (CB) - Fifth/Sixth Round. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- WRONG! WIZZUH???? Round 4, #102 overall to the Chiefs. All of the Chiefs' picks are mind-boggling and this one was no exception. </span><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Nader Abdallah (DT) - Seventh Round. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">- WRONG! Undrafted... I'd like to see him get a shot with his hometown Saints...</span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:85%;">I'm looking forward to drafting a Buckeye-laden team on this year's version of Madden...! Go Bucks!</span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-49761238083866582432009-03-26T09:08:00.003-04:002009-03-26T09:41:37.810-04:00The XNFL Criminals<span style="font-size:85%;">With the NFL Draft upon us, I thought it would be fun to fill a roster of misfits... This team COULD be good...<br /><br />QB - Michael "Dog Fighting" Vick<br />RB - Maurice "Shotgun & Vodka" Clarett<br />RB - Cedric "Drinking & Boating" Benson<br />RB - Onterrio "Whizzinator" Smith<br />RB - OJ "I Didn't Do it" Simpson<br />WR - Rae "Murder Inc." Carruth<br />WR - Plaxico "9mm" Burress<br />WR - Chris "18 is too old" Henry<br />WR - Matt "Coke-Man" Jones<br />TE - Mark " " Chumra<br />OL - Eric "Drinking & Boating" Steinbach<br />OL - Ross "Bad Checks" Verba<br />OL - Barrett "Bipolar" Robbins<br />OL - Bryant "Love Boat" McKinnie<br /><br /><br />DT - Tank "I love guns" Johnson<br />DE - Leonard "Kill you with my car" Little<br />LB - Odell "Must Drink and Drive" Thurmann<br />LB - Rob "Wife-beater Extraordinaire" Reynolds<br />LB - Steve "BAC 0.233" Foley<br />LB - AJ "Rap Sheet" Nicholson<br />CB - Adam "Pacman needs a Posse" Jones<br />CB - Darryl "41 years in Orange" Henley<br /><br />... This team wouldn't be complete without the official Cincinnati Bengals team jerseys.... Orange and stripes!<br /></span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-88500510090839430802009-03-04T11:01:00.004-05:002009-03-04T11:14:31.862-05:00Buckeye Draft Prospect Projections<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Piggybacking my previous post... My projections for where this class of Ohio State Buckeyes will go in the draft:</span><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Malcolm Jenkins (CB) - First Round. Top 15 overall.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Chris "Beanie" Wells (RB) - First Round. Late pick, somewhere between Picks 20 and 32.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">James Laurinaitis (LB) - Second Round. Early in the round, somewhere between Picks 33 and 50.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Brian Robiskie (WR) - Second/Third Round. </span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Marcus Freeman (LB) - Second/Third Round.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Brian Hartline (WR) - Fourth/Fifth Round.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Donald Washington (CB) - Fifth/Sixth Round.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Nader Abdallah (DT) - Seventh Round.</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Undrafted FAs: Boone, Boeckman, Person, Rehring, Terry, Maurice Wells, and Nicol.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Todd McShay, eat a dick.</span></div></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-78450829831719640722009-03-03T12:44:00.002-05:002009-03-03T13:37:49.502-05:00YWRN NFL Mock Draft v.2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="margin-top: 0px; font: normal normal bold 130%/normal 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS'; letter-spacing: -1px; color: rgb(153, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px;">Round 2. Before I get onto the actual mock draft, let me just say loud and clear that </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; ">TODD MCSHAY IS A <span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">FUCKING MORON</span></span>!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> I don't get paid by ESPN, but I bet I'll have a higher hit ratio on my mock draft.</span></span></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="margin-top: 0px; font: normal normal bold 130%/normal 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS'; letter-spacing: -1px; color: rgb(153, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">1. Detroit Losers </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Matt Stafford (QB - UGA) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: Stafford<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "></span></span></span></span></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="margin-top: 0px; font: normal normal bold 130%/normal 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS'; letter-spacing: -1px; color: rgb(153, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; ">I'm still not at high on this guy as plenty of other draftniks claim to be, but aside from taking a huge gamble to try and pick up Sanchez later in the 1st, ala Brady Quinn, this is the smart, frugal pick... even though there will be nothing frugal about the contract...</span></span></span></span></h3><div class="post-body entry-content"><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">2. St. Louis Rams </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Jason Smith (OT - Baylor) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: Crabtree</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">There is strong correlation between a good O-lineman and a successful offense. With Orlando "Pancake" Pace's lingering injuries, it is imperative that this void, literally, is filled with a solid OT. He can only help Steven Jackson... </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">3. Kansas Shitty Chiefs</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Andre Smith (OT - Alabama) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: Dirty Sanchez</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Well, trading for Matt Cassel solved their QB question in one fell swoop... And somehow they got Mike Vrabel and only had to give up a 2nd Round pick to get them BOTH... It was a shady deal to me. Once again, logic pits this OT into this spot.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">4. Seattle Seahawks </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Eugene Monroe (OT - Virginia) Previous pick: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Dr. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">'Dre Smith</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Hello T.J. WhosYourMama. Good-bye Michael Achilles Crabtree.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">5. Cleveland Brownies </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Aaron Curry (LB - Wake Forest) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: Slow-Poke Moreno</span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">The run on offensive linemen finally comes to a halt. The best player available goes to one of the worst franchises ever.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">6. Cincinnati Bungals</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Michael Oher (OT - Ole Miss) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: Monroe</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">My previous comment about only drafting O-Line and WRs remains the same. TJ is gone... and you're left with a fleet of thugs at wideout...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">7. Oakland Al Davis Killed the Raiders</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Michael Crabtree (WR - Texas Tech) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Curry</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Al Davis doesn't even need to trade up to make a bad decision. WR isn't a glaring hole - the O-Line is. It's a sweet Madden offense though: McFadden, Crabtree and that fat guy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">8. J-ville Jaguars</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - BJ Raji (NT - Boston College) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Oher</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Running back and defense back are needs, but I don't think you can pass on this guy. He's the second coming of Albert Haynesworth.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">9. Green Bay Packer</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">s</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Malcolm Jenkins (CB - The Ohio State University) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Raji</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">I think Jenkins runs better at the Ohio State pro-day and solidifies himself as a top 10 pick. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">10. San Francisco Gold-Digging 49ers </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Brian Cushing (LB - USC) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Maualuga</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Niners take the other in-state kid to pair up with Patrick Pro-Bowl Willis in the 3-4. Two reasons: 1) copy cat Super Bowl Sixburgh Steelers; 2) copy cat Super Bowl Sixburgh Steelers. He had a tremendous Combine and could be plenty disruptive at OLB. No QB here as Warner gets signed... somehow...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">11. Buffalo Billy Bob Thornton Bill</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">s</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Vontae Davis (CB - Illinois) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Smith</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Davis had a good Combine which should increase his appeal. The lack of CB depth/quality in this class makes this an early value pick.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">12. Denver has Hot Cheerleaders Broncos</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Brian Orapko (DE/OLB - Texas) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous pick: E. Brown</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">If Denver really is going to shift to a 3-4 like half of the NFL, a versatile DE is a big need. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">13. Washington Redskins </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Eben Britton (OT - Arizona) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Peria Jerry</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">The signing of Albert Haynesworth significantly changes the landscape of this pick... Britton is the last quality OT on the board... I certainly wouldn't pick Alex Buffoon Boone...!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">14. New Orleans Saints</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Rey Maualuga (LB - USC) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Jenkins</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Under the simple assumption that the Saints can't resign Vilma.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">15. Houston Texans</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Jeremy Maclin (WR - Mizzou) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Orapko</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">My last mock had a DE, but they just signed one via free agency. A solid #2 WR to complement Andre Johnson means a field day for the Houston offense... Now that just sounds strange.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">16. San Diego Super Jacko Chargers</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Chris Wells (RB - The Ohio State University) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Cushing</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">It's no surprise that there's all kinds of questions surrounding LT... Sproles isn't an everydown back, but then again, neither is Beanie Wells. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">17. New York J-E-T-S Jets</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Mark Sanchez (QB - USC) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Laurinaitis </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">I've seen stranger picks out of New York.... but the departure of Favre and a skinny FA market makes some sense out of this pick..</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">18. Chicago Da Bear</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">s - Percy Harvin (WR - Florida) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Maclin</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">If Devin Hester if your best WR... you're not going to make the play-offs.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">19. Tampa Hosted the Super Bowl Buccaneers</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Josh Freeman (QB - KSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">In addition to being home of Super Bowl 43 and the highest per capita of strip clubs, it's also home to a new stable of coaches. This pick will be as surprising as the firing of Gruden and the defection of Coach Kiffin. Freeman is a younger, darker, taller, bigger, straighter, faster, right-handed version of Jeff Garcia. This obviously changes if they somehow trade for Cutler.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">20. Detroit Losers (II</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Alex Mack (C - Cal)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">You could insert any of the top 10 linemen at this spot and Detroit will pick one of them.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">21. Philly Steak Sub Eagles</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Knowshon Moreno (RB - Georgia) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Beanie Wells</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">I could see Philly trading this pick to, say, Arizona for Anquan Boldin? Moreno's 40-time was atrocious. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">22. Minnesota Vikings </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Louis Delmas (S - Western Michigan) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Davis</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Delmas has been climbing draft boards and safety is a position of great need. Round 2/3/4 is where they address the dire QB situation in hopes of bandaging the situation until 2010. Graham Harrell in purple anyone? I know he can hand-off to AP All Day as well as I can...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">23. New England Com Patriot</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">s - Aaron Maybin (DE/OLB - PSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">The most logical pick for Coach Sweatshirt. Fits the system like a glove.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">24. Atlanta Matt Ryan Falcons</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Tyson Jackson (DE - LSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">I have a feeling the 2009 draft will be very defense-oriented for the Falcons who have a wall-oiled machine on the other side of the ball.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">25. Miami has Sexy Cheerleaders Dolphins </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- Everett Brown (DE - FSU) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Delmas</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Parcells likes his DE's big and fast, like OLBs. See Demarcus Ware.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">26. Baltimore Cry Me a River Ravens </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- DJ Moore (CB - Vanderbilt)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle are barely worth fantasy drafting on Madden 2009... Not to mention Corey Ivy is clearly not good enough to be a #1 on that defense. (see: Corey Ivy gets pwned by Holmes & Sweed). Remember, this team gets Dawan Landry back from injury in '09.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">27. Indianapolis Colts</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Peria Jerry (DT - Ole Miss) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previousl Pick: Marks (DT - Auburn)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; ">I had a hard time with this one, but I think it's the biggest hole they need to fill. WR's to replace Harrison abound in Rounds 2 & 3. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">28. Philly Steak Sub Eagles (II)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Max Unger (C - Oregon) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Britton</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Don't know who this guy is, but he had a sick Combine and Philly needs help on the O-line.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">29. New York Giants</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR - Maryland) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Previous Pick: Nicks (WR - UNC)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">A true deep threat with blazing speed. A complement to all those possession guys they've got.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">30. Tennessee Titans</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"> - Brandon Pettigrew (TE - Okie State)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Who's that washed up tight-end that fumbled the ball in a playoff game? Yeah.. Enough said.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">31. Arizona Cardinal</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">s - LeSean McCoy (RB - Pittsburgh)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">How ironic it would be for the Cardinals to draft a RB from the city that just beat them in the Super Bowl...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">32. Sixburgh Steelers </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">- William Beatty (OT - UConn)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">If Sixburgh drafts ANYONE that's not an offensive lineman, they will earn a draft grade of FAIL.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">End Round One.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;">Special Note - Former Buckeye Alex Baffoon Boone will not be drafted in this year's draft for alcohol-related issues. At least wait until AFTER you're drafted to consume an entire keg of beer... Maybe he'll be drinking during his Wonderlic testing...</span></div></div></span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-71687472690201714822009-02-05T13:26:00.002-05:002009-02-05T14:16:07.344-05:00Goal Line Blitz (nerd)<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; ">It's been about 45 days since I first stumbled upon GoalLineBlitz.com via the Bucknuts message boards. A quick summary so I don't lose anyone; Goal Line Blitz ("GLB") is an online "MMORPG"; Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game. At the heart of this online RPG is football. For football fans and football fantasy addicts alike, this game is the shot you get to take that will prolong your drunken desire for football from the gruesomely boring months of February through August. Especially if you hate baseball, basketball and hockey. </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I digress. Continuing on, the game allows you to participate at various levels.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">1.) You can be an agent. You get create a player and position of your choice and build him to your liking from Day 1. You could replicate a guy like Peyton Manning, Troy Polamalu or Albert Haynesworth... or even a kicker. Regardless, the possibilities are endless. Competition is available at all levels which I would equate to a spectrum of play-ground ball (age 5) to NFL Pro Bowl status. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">2.) You can be a owner/coach. If you prefer to throw your weight around as a team owner Jerry Jones-style. There's a steep learning curve in order to be a GOOD owner, but there is room for newbies in the game.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">3.) Ever thought that you could do better than Jim Bollman? GLB allows you to prove your worth as an Offensive (or Defensive) Coordinator. You are the decision maker for how often a formation/play is run based on various scenarios that you must determine and define. The trick is making sure your game plan is cohesive with the players on your team. Again, huge learning curve, but not impossible.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">4.) Lastly, you can be a scout and/or recruiter. Your job is to watch/script game film looking for holes in the defense or trends in the offense and report them back to the respective Coordinator. Most people, including myself, start here in order to work their way up to an OC/DC position. Good scouting equates to good reviews and request for your services. The recruiter ends up being a secondary role where you're out seeking services of Free Agents or players with contracts coming to maturity... Most contracts are one or two-season stints, so there are plenty of available players for the right price (or starting position).</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Note - there is no monetary gain for playing the game. Zero. Zilch. Nada. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">It's all about pride. You can make a stud athlete and be recruited by the top five teams in your league. You could be an owner known as one of the most successful owners in the game. You could become the top Coordinator with constant messages inquiring for your services... And you get little JPEG trophies for winning, being a top WR, etc... </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The rest of the game is all computer-run/generated. Games are simulated and the players are all little colored dots (yellow & blue, respectively) with initials for each position. It's a fantasy game that allows you to control some of the outcome... with the goal being to WIN and if you're a player, be in enough plays so you get the maximum experience points for that game.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Anyway, you can read more about the game on GLBwiki.com or Goallineblitz.com.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Onto my current status in the game. I am known in the game as "snowmann". Don't ask how I came up with that. It's connotations vary and I'll leave it ambiguous/random. I currently own 14 players ranging from Level 2 to Level 21. I have players at every major position except QB, FB, and TE. They are an Evil Dynasty as each player's first name is "Evil" and the last name being a player of my choosing... i.e. Evil Urlacher (LB), Evil Polamalu (SS), Evil Ware (LB), Evil Peterson (RB), Evil Laurinaitis (LB), Evil Fitzgerald (WR), Evil Jenkins (CB) & Evil Asomugha (CB)... I am tempted to create a new set of players which may be named differently, but for the time being, Evil is the trend. I've learned how to effectively slow-build these players and will continue to do so until I achieve enough Skill Points to instantaneously boost them to a more formidable state. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><<perhaps>></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">At any rate, in addition to being player-agent, I've undertaken the role of the Offensive Coordinator for the Kansas City Titans (a European BBB league team). It's a Level 21-capped team, which means we can't SIGN any players over Level 21, but we can sign a Level 21 and have him level-up to Level 24 & 25... potentially making him one of the most dominant players in that geographic BBB league. I've spent a lot of time re-ordering the depth chart, creating a base game-plan, and recruiting new players for Season 8. (*note, each Season lasts about 45 days, so in one full calendar year, about eight seasons could be completed) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">It's been an interesting off-season and I've developed a good reputation with the players we've recruited and committed about being a professional and active OC. Hopefully I've picked the right players for my system... which I won't divulge on here... </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The goal is to eventually own/co-own my own team and fill it with the players that I've created.... and hopefully be competitive. There are a fair number of GLB veterans that have been around long enough to know the game inside & out... Part of me wishes I would have be around when the ship originally sailed and went live. I could probably have a Level 99 player that was getting ready to retire. The best part is that once you achieve that level, you can retire and rebuild from scratch at either a different position or just be one of the most powerful owners/coaches in the game.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Okay, enough rambling for one day... Just glad to get that out of my system while I'm sitting here thinking about it... </span></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-37553334006424615942009-02-04T11:25:00.005-05:002009-02-04T13:26:28.883-05:00YWRN NFL Mock Draft v.1<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; ">Please note the date & time-stamp of this entry as it is SURE to be WAY too early. The NFL combine doesn't start for another three weeks or so and a lot will change after that. Exhibit A: Chris Johnson going to the Tennessee Titans in Round 1. When you run a 4.24-40, your stock goes up. Period. Percy Harvin could do it this year... </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">1. Detroit Losers </span>- Matt Stafford (QB - UGA)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I'm not at high on this guy as plenty of other draftniks claim to be, but they're not going to draft Michael Crabtree. That being said, it wouldn't be completely crazy to see Kansas City trade up for this pick to take Stafford in lieu of being stuck with Mark Dirty Sanchez. Dan Orlovsky and Daunte Culpepper are NOT the answer. Not even with their talents combined like the Wonder Twins.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">2. St. Louis Rams </span>- Michael Crabtree (WR - Texas Tech)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">As the unfortunate owner of Torry Holt during the 2008 fantasy football season, I know this guy is no longer producing at the same level. He could make for a good 3WR in their system, but here's a guy who will complement Donnie Avery and put butts in the seats. I think Crabtree is going to be a stud... (shhhh, I'm going to draft him on my fantasy team this year!). Oh, and insert thought: Oakland might trade up for this pick...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">3. Kansas Shitty Chiefs</span> - Mark Dirty Sanchez (QB - USC)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">They need a QB because Tyler Thigpen is not their QB of the future. Their other two bozos on the roster proved that they weren't worth the time or money either. Yes, Brodie Croyle and Damon Huard. Personally, I think they need to make this pick, even though I think he's going to be a bust too.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">4. Seattle Seahawks </span>- Andre Smith (OT - Alabama)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I still think this guy is the best big man in the draft. His absence from the Sugar Bowl proved to be fatal. He pwned everyone else he matched up against during the season. Walter Jones is getting old too.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">5. Cleveland Brownies </span>- Knowshown Moreno (RB - Georgia)<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Coaching and injuries killed the Brownies in 2008 and Jamal Lewis needs a replacement. There's depth in this Linebacker class but not at Running Back. Will they ever change their fugly orange and brown unis? Add some green and they could be the Moldy Oranges.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">6. Cincinnati Bungals</span> - Eugene Monroe (OT - Virginia)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Cincinnati should only draft O-linemen and Wide Receivers this year. Bye bye TJ (free agent) and Ocho Cinco (washed up). </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">7. Oakland Al Davis Killed the Raiders</span> - Aaron Curry (LB - Wake Forest)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">If they don't trade up to take Crabtree, which I'm thinking is quite likely, my guess is Curry. O-Line is their greatest and most obvious need, but the Grim Reaper (Al Davis) will again forego the route of "logic" and pick who he wants.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">8. J-ville Jaguars</span> - Michael Oher (OT - Ole Miss)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">See comment above about Cincinnati Bengals & insert here.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">9. Green Bay Packer</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">s</span> - B.J. Raji (DT - Boston College)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I have this strange feeling that he could go higher than this (maybe Cincinnati, maybe Oakland)... </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">10. San Francisco Gold-Digging 49ers </span>- Rey Maualuga (LB - USC)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Niners take the in-state kid to pair up with Patrick Pro-Bowl Willis in the 3-4. Two reasons: 1) copy cat Super Bowl Sixburgh Steelers; 2) copy cat Super Bowl Sixburgh Steelers.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">11. Buffalo Billy Bob Thornton Bill</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">s</span> - Jason Smith (OT - Baylor)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I can't name anyone on their O-Line which means they need help. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">12. Denver has Hot Cheerleaders Broncos</span> - Everett Brown (DE/OLB - PSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">If Denver really is going to shift to a 3-4 like half of the NFL, a versatile DE is a big need. The other guy that could go here is Brian Orapko... but I don't think he'll grade out as well after failing to dominate against a porous Ohio State d-line in the Fiesta Bowl.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">13. Washington Redskins </span>- Peria Jerry (DT - Ole Miss)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I wish the 'Skins could get the Taylor Mays compensatory pick for losing Sean Taylor, but alas, they'll need to finish 2009 season at 4-11 to secure that pick instead. For the time being, the Mr. Jerry is the pick. Joe Gibbs could have a 100-yard day against the Skins' defense.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">14. New Orleans Saints</span> - Malcolm Jenkins (CB - The Ohio State University)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">As proficient as the Saints are at passing the ball, their ability to defend it is equally horrendous. Jenkins is the best corner in this draft class and arguably should go higher. Here's an early bet that he runs a 4.35-40 on Pro Day.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">15. Houston Texans</span> - Brian Orapko (DE - Texas)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Complement the $40 million terror on the other side of the line with this guy and you're set on the D-Line for the next 4-6 years. DO IT. Plus, he's a Texas guy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">16. San Diego Super Jacko Chargers</span> - Brian Cushing (OLB - USC)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Somehow I see this guys' measureables being way too much to pass over... He could be the next Shawne Merriman in that system. Just saying... Oh, and I think LT and Sproles will both stick around in '09. SD will pick a RB in a later round... Like a Javon Ringer...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">17. New York J-E-T-S Jets</span> - James Laurinaitis (LB - The Ohio State University)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The Vernon Gholston project hasn't been fully realized yet, but that won't stop new Jets Coach Rex Ryan from drafting the heady MLB from Linebacker U.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">18. Chicago Da Bear</span>s - Jeremy Maclin (WR - Mizzou)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">If Devin Hester if your best WR... you're not going to make the play-offs.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">19. Tampa Hosted the Super Bowl Buccaneers</span> - Josh Freeman (QB - KSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">In addition to being home of Super Bowl 43 and the highest per capita of strip clubs, it's also home to a new stable of coaches. This pick will be as surprising as the firing of Gruden and the defection of Coach Kiffin. Freeman is a younger, darker, taller, bigger, straighter, faster, right-handed version of Jeff Garcia.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">20. Detroit Losers (II</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">)</span> - Alex Mack (C - Cal)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">You could insert any of the top 10 linemen at this spot and Detroit will pick one of them.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">21. Philly Steak Sub Eagles</span> - Chris "Beanie" Wells (RB - The Ohio State University)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Somehow the Eagles get Beanie, either here at 21 or via trade. Brian Westbrook was not created for goal-line rushes, rather, for 60 yard screen passes for TDs.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">22. Minnesota Vikings </span>- Vontae Davis (CB - Illinois)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Under the pretense that defense wins championships, Davis is the value pick here. Round 2/3/4 is where they address the dire QB situation in hopes of bandaging the situation until 2010. Graham Harrell in purple anyone? I know he can hand-off to AP All Day as well as I can...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">23. New England Com Patriot</span>s - Aaron Maybin (DE/OLB - PSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The most logical pick for Coach Sweatshirt. Fits the system like a glove.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">24. Atlanta Matt Ryan Falcons</span> - Tyson Jackson (DE - LSU)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I have a feeling the 2009 draft will be very defense-oriented for the Falcons who have a wall-oiled machine on the other side of the ball.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">25. Miami has Sexy Cheerleaders Dolphins </span>- Louis Delmas (S - Western Michigan)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I think Parcells snags a veteran LB via free agency and takes this safety...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">26. Baltimore Cry Me a River Ravens </span>- DJ Moore (CB - Vanderbilt)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle are barely worth fantasy drafting on Madden 2009... Not to mention Corey Ivy is clearly not good enough to be a #1 on that defense. (see: Corey Ivy gets pwned by Holmes & Sweed)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">27. Indianapolis Colts</span> - Sen'Derrick Marks (DT - Auburn)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I had a hard time with this one, but I think it's the biggest hole they need to fill. WR's to replace Harrison abound in Rounds 2 & 3. Marks was a DE who's obviously agile enough to play the role of quick, undersized DT for the speedy Colts defense.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">28. Philly Steak Sub Eagles (II)</span> - Eben Britton (OT - Arizona)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Don't know who this guy is, but Philly needs help on the O-line.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">29. New York Giants</span> - Hakeem Nicks (WR - UNC)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Replacement for Plaxico Arm I Shot Myself Burress. The defense will be fine and back on its feet with Umenyiora back on the field.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">30. Tennessee Titans</span> - Brandon Pettigrew (TE - Okie State)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Who's that washed up tight-end that fumbled the ball in a playoff game? Yeah.. Enough said.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">31. Arizona Cardinal</span>s - LeSean McCoy (RB - Pittsburgh)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">How ironic it would be for the Cardinals to draft a RB from the city that just beat them in the Super Bowl...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">32. Sixburgh Steelers </span>- William Beatty (OT - UConn)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">If Sixburgh drafts ANYONE that's not an offensive lineman, they will earn a draft grade of FAIL.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">End Round One.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Special Note - Former Buckeye Alex Baffoon Boone will not be drafted in this year's draft for alcohol-related issues. At least wait until AFTER you're drafted to consume an entire keg of beer. Maybe he'll outscore Vince Young on the Wonderlic Test. Bonehead only needs a 7 to beat VY.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">You want rice noodle?</span></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-64855291125370648012009-02-04T09:10:00.001-05:002009-02-04T09:11:32.406-05:00Best V-Day Gift Ever<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsaJRbLzTIGTIwVNnYFHVoFHd9tFe7hIQI8vInJHgual-zSVRc0n7MHOCjZLYeQkdxsvwa-BpTdNzgONLGbVhBTGg_qbcRJA4jdoMNGGSdhbqq4xtBc4JEjhGEf-Ho447aBguF0bPiuk/s1600-h/vday.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 314px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsaJRbLzTIGTIwVNnYFHVoFHd9tFe7hIQI8vInJHgual-zSVRc0n7MHOCjZLYeQkdxsvwa-BpTdNzgONLGbVhBTGg_qbcRJA4jdoMNGGSdhbqq4xtBc4JEjhGEf-Ho447aBguF0bPiuk/s320/vday.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298944423806077746" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;">My g/f made (Internet-colored) this for me... Haha.<br /></div></span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-90739192378787356902009-01-26T14:33:00.010-05:002009-01-26T14:54:05.810-05:00Quick Rant<span style="font-size:85%;">Disclaimer: this is what happens when you don't have football to watch...<br /><br />I caught a glimpse of yesterday's Miss America with my g/f. (She was channel surfing, not me)... Her timing was impeccable as we were treated to the Top 15 in the swimsuit round and then the Top 10 in the evening gown round... My commentary today does not refer to how the contestants looked in bikinis nor how some of them sucked in their stomachs while walking on stage, nay, this is more about the attractiveness of the respective candidates from the states that border the Buckeye state.<br /><br />Exhibit A - Miss Ohio:</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4RsnVoPeI/AAAAAAAAAEE/TW09ZoNtp68/s1600-h/09_Ohio.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 177px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4RsnVoPeI/AAAAAAAAAEE/TW09ZoNtp68/s200/09_Ohio.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295689670005898722" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />Compare Exhibit A to the following, who are from Michigan, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania.<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SLiT27LI/AAAAAAAAAEM/D4Zh0c1QBkE/s1600-h/09_Kentucky.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 175px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SLiT27LI/AAAAAAAAAEM/D4Zh0c1QBkE/s200/09_Kentucky.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295690201232239794" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SUx70r2I/AAAAAAAAAEU/Vh7NGK4LxUc/s1600-h/09_Michigan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 177px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SUx70r2I/AAAAAAAAAEU/Vh7NGK4LxUc/s200/09_Michigan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295690360045219682" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SnWQxmNI/AAAAAAAAAEc/n0LTkp7G7e8/s1600-h/09_Pennsylvania.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 175px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4SnWQxmNI/AAAAAAAAAEc/n0LTkp7G7e8/s200/09_Pennsylvania.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295690679034419410" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Case</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4S3Y7J9QI/AAAAAAAAAEk/Nl72MjjxwJ4/s1600-h/09_Indiana.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4S3Y7J9QI/AAAAAAAAAEk/Nl72MjjxwJ4/s200/09_Indiana.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295690954626954498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> in point, the winner was none other than Miss Indiana.<br /><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />So I ask, why is Miss Ohio so busted????? Such a poor representation of our fine state....<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4UJl0vGxI/AAAAAAAAAEs/XgBIg6iF5A0/s1600-h/09_Tennessee.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XW785xuafT8/SX4UJl0vGxI/AAAAAAAAAEs/XgBIg6iF5A0/s200/09_Tennessee.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295692366838962962" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Miss Tennessee would have gotten my vote... (or Indiana)...<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(photos all courtesy of www.missamerica.org) </span><br /></span>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567107825373183235.post-30566299329122661422009-01-20T13:43:00.003-05:002009-01-20T14:02:43.669-05:00On This Day in History....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2340664539_5fe4148210.jpg?v=0"><img style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px; " src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2340664539_5fe4148210.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">A strong visual representation of what we hope he will bring... unity. (props to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsevis/2340664539/">tsevis @ flickr</a>)</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">2010 is going to be a HUGE year for the history book publishers. I mean, I might need to invest some stock in McGraw-Hill Companies ASAP.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">That aside, never has the opportunity for change and revival been more prominent. Ask my friends and they'll tell you that I'm usually extremely apathetic when it comes to politics. But even I am excited about the potential that the new group of individuals bring to the White House. The uncertainty and potential is compounded with much hope, as evidenced by the million(s) of individuals who made the pilgrammage to Washington DC to personally witness the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I'm anxious to see how the next four years unfold... after watching the previous eight years erode my financial & job security, and wealth away.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">*Editor's Note: It <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">digusts</span> me to read the ignorant facebook statuses and Twits that were apparently sent from another universe, nay, galaxy... </span></div></div>e-rochttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06152699870755660669noreply@blogger.com0