Wizbang Sports: December 2003 Archives

RAIDERS FIRE CALLAHAN

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 31, 2003

Not entirely unexpected: Raiders Fire Callahan After 4-12 Season. Still, this brings to three the coaches who have been fired this year even after taking their present team to the Super Bowl: Callahan (2003), the Giants' Jim Fassel (2001), and the Falcons' Dan Reeves (1999). Cross-post from OTB.... [Full Story]

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Redskins Coaching Search

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 31, 2003 · Comments (1)

WaPo reports that, Three former NFL head coaches -- Dennis Green, Jim Fassel and Ray Rhodes -- are at the top of the Washington Redskins' wish list to replace Steve Spurrier and become the fifth head coach of the team in the last five years under owner Daniel Snyder, sources... [Full Story]

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Bills Coaching Candidates

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 31, 2003

The Bills have begun their search for a new head coach following the non-renewal of Gregg Williams' contract. They have already asked for, and received permission, to speak to coordinators Charlie Weiss, Romeo Crenell, and Lovie Smith. Tom Donohoe also stated he would interview current Bills defensive coordinator Jerry Gray... [Full Story]

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Answer Me This:

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (1)

KC blows out Detroit in KC. Detroit beats St Louis convincingly in St Louis. Detroit nearly beats Denver in Denver. Denver loses to Chicago at home. KC blows out Chicago in KC. Denver blows out KC in Denver. Minnesota blows out KC in Minnesota. Minnesota loses to Chicago. Minnesota loses... [Full Story]

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Central Michigan Hires New Coach

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003

Central Michigan hired Brian Kelly today as their new football coach. Kelly has been the coach at Division II Grand Valley State, who won the past two national championships in D-II.... [Full Story]

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Spurrier Denies, then Confirms Resignation

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (1)

Steve Spurrier initially denied the Redskins announcement that he resigned before later confirming it.... [Full Story]

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Jets Fire Cottrell

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (6)

The New Jersey Jets dismissed defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell today. Please, do not let the Cottrell-to-Buffalo rumors start up because I don't think I can take it. Cottrell is a nice guy. Well respected by the media and well liked by his players. He is also an average defensive coordinator... [Full Story]

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Spurrier Resigns

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003

Steve Spurrier has resigned as head coach of the Washington Redskins. He will receive none of the $15 million remaining on his contract and cannot coach in the NFL for 3 years without the Redskins' being compensated. He will receive moving expenses from the team.... [Full Story]

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Remember the Alamo?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (3)

The Spartans hope to forget. No. 22 Nebraska rolled all over Michigan State 17-3 in last night's bowl game. It was a disappointing ending to an otherwise not so bad season for the Spartans.... [Full Story]

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Lions blow it by winning

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (1)

Who would think winning would be a bad thing? Well, when you are the Lions it can be. Four teams are 4-12, six are 5-11. In desperate need of a running back, the Lion's 30-20 win over St. Louis on Sunday all but assured that Chris Perry will have been... [Full Story]

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The Coach-Go-Round

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (1)

The Coach Shuffle has begun. Out: ATL's Dan Reeves NYG's Fassel AZ's Dave McGinnis CHI's Dick Jauron BUF's Gregg Williams Soon to be out: OAK's Bill Callahan Contract Extended, Loses personnel powers: MIA's Dave Wannstedt (Cross-posted at PoliBlog)... [Full Story]

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Mayor Thanks Poole

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 30, 2003 · Comments (1)

Arizona wide receiver Nathan Poole will be the guest of the Green Bay mayor at Sunday's Packers playoff game against Seattle. Poole may be forfeiting any chance of playing for the Minnesota Vikings (he was cut four times by the Cardinals), but he'll get the key to the city. "Green... [Full Story]

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Williams Officially Done

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 29, 2003 · Comments (1)

Tom Donahoe made it official yesterday in announcing that the contract for Gregg Williams would not be renewed. In defending his ex-coach, he proceded to rip into the local media by stating he "was embarassed to be a part of this community" because of the attacks on Gregg Williams "and... [Full Story]

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2003 Stupid Top Ten

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 29, 2003

Tis the season to compile lists. As I contemplate the past year, I have to wonder if sports, especially pro sports, aren't becoming more noteworthy for what they are doing wrong than for what they are doing right. It's debatable, but I've got to tell you, whittling a list of... [Full Story]

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Donahoe Puts on His Firin' Hat

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 29, 2003 · Comments (4)

The Bills have called a press conference for 4:15 today. I wonder where this could be heading? The only question is if some other coaches go with Gilbride and Williams or if the new coach gets to fire them. Update: Mark Clayton confirms it.... [Full Story]

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What Have We Learned?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 28, 2003 · Comments (3)

Kansas City faced a team that had won 4 of 5 games, had a strong running back in Anthony Thomas, and an intimidating defense. Some analysts had said that Chicago might be playing like one of the best teams right now... ...and Kansas City easily dispatched them. Denver has a... [Full Story]

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Caldwell Spurns Holtz, Returns to Vanderbilt

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 28, 2003

Palmetto State native Robbie Caldwell, who was announced as the new South Carolina offensive line coach on December 24, changed his mind over Christmas and informed South Carolina Head Coach Lou Holtz Saturday that he would be remaining at Vanderbilt. South Carolina's coaching changes have mounted up since the end... [Full Story]

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Rangers Sign Jordan

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 28, 2003

Brian Jordan signed a one-year deal worth $1.375 million with the Texas Rangers. This signing would seem to indicate that the deal for Alex Rodriguez that was put on hold is off permanently now.... [Full Story]

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Ivan Calderon Killed

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 28, 2003

Former outfielder Ivan Calderon was shot to death Saturday in Puerto Rico. He was 41.... [Full Story]

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Prediction Results

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 27, 2003

Last week I was 0-3 after Saturday (after making some emotional picks...wanting KC to beat Minn, wanting NYJ to beat NE, and thinking TB would walk all over Atlanta). This week I went with the numbers, and if Philly continues to dominate a hapless Washington, I'll be 3-0 for Saturday!... [Full Story]

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Bronczilla Speaks: Lelie, McCaffery and Smith

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 26, 2003

Much to my sadness, Ed McCaffery will probably retire after this season. He is dropping more balls than is typical of him � telling me his confidence has taken a major hit. At the same time, he can�t stay healthy for more than a few weeks.... [Full Story]

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Week 17 Predictions

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 26, 2003

Buffalo @ New England => New England* Seattle @ San Francisco => Seattle* Philly @ Washington => Philadelphia Chicago @ Kansas City => Kansas City Cleveland @ Cincinnati => Cincinnati Dallas @ New Orleans => Dallas Indianapolis @ Houston => Indianapolis Jacksonville @ Atlanta => Jacksonville NY Jets @ Miami... [Full Story]

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Bronczilla Speaks: Elway Boots Griese

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 25, 2003

For all practical purposes the Broncos� regular season is over. Sure, winning or losing to the Packers in week 17 might change who Denver plays during wild card weekend. But when Denver has no chance of a home game anyway does anyone really care? Mike Shannahan doesn�t. His players don�t.... [Full Story]

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Favre Awarded

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 25, 2003

Brett Favre's amazing Monday night performance, not only earned him a Freak of the Week, but also the NFL Offensive Player of the Week. "Brett Favre Highlights NFC Players Of The Week"... [Full Story]

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Hope in KC

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 24, 2003

This week Kansas City faces the Chicago Bears, a team with a good defense and playing for pride. They defeated Denver in Denver, defeated the Minnesota Vikings in Minnesota. Not a team to be discounted. I think Kansas City will win, though. I don't know for sure. I think I've... [Full Story]

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Schottenheimer Stays In San Diego

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 24, 2003

For the Chargers, it's one question answered and several dozen to go. General manager A.J. Smith yesterday ended speculation regarding Marty Schottenheimer's future by announcing the Chargers coach would return for the 2004 season. The move had been rumored for weeks, but Smith had said no decision would be announced... [Full Story]

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Week 16 Freaks of the Week

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 23, 2003

The fantasy playoffs continued. If you were like me, you were playing your last game of the year. Hopefully, if you had the skill and luck to make it into your league championship you did better than me. But enough about me let's get to the Freaks of the Week.... [Full Story]

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Rodman Announces Comeback

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 22, 2003

Yahoo! News reports Rodman's intent to rejoin the NBA: Dennis Rodman, the retired basketball great known for his off-court antics just as much as his on-court skills, has returned to the game with the Long Beach Jam of the fringe American Basketball Association (ABA). Rodman, who announced in July that... [Full Story]

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PRO SPORTS: NOT A GAME

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 22, 2003

For any of us under the illusion that professional sports is "just a game," here's another bit of evidence to dissuade you: MSNBC reports that Green Bay Packers QB Brett Favre will play in tonight's game despite the tragic loss of his father only yesterday: Brett Favre�s father died Sunday... [Full Story]

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Message From Brett Favre

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 22, 2003 · Comments (3)

On the Packers website, Brett Favre left this message to the fans: There has been a huge outpouring of support since we received word of Irvin's passing of a massive heart attack on Sunday night. We thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers... [Full Story]

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Favre's Dad Passes Away, Questionable Start for Monday?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 21, 2003

ESPN just reported that Brett Favre is questionable for Monday's game because his father passed away. Here is the report from NFL.com... [Full Story]

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PRICE TO UTEP

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 21, 2003

MSNBC reports that UTEP has hired disgraced former Alabama coach Mike Price to coach its football team. The Miners hired Price on Sunday despite a reputation tarnished by a night of partying at a strip club months after being hired at Alabama. The longtime Washington State coach never coached a... [Full Story]

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COWBOYS PLAYOFF BOUND

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 21, 2003

The Dallas Cowboys have won their 10th game and guaranteed themselves a trip to the playoffs--doubling their win total from each of the previous three seasons--beating the New York Giants for the second time this season. Coach Bill Parcells also got a large container of Gatorade dumped on him by... [Full Story]

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The Chiefs are in Trouble

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 21, 2003 · Comments (1)

The Chiefs are in trouble. They have shown an embarassing dearth of character. Here is an article that describes the situation quite well. Unless they right the ship soon, this will go down as one of the all-time great collapses. I have no idea what else to say. I am... [Full Story]

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Badgers Top Golden Eagles

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 20, 2003

Wisconsin and Marquette played for Wisconsin state bragging rights today in Madison. The #22 Badgers hosted the #23 Golden Eagles (formerly Warriors) and came out on top 63-59. Wisconsin compensated for a poor shooting performance (39%) by dominating at the free throw line. Wisconsin was 22-39 while Marquette was 6-9.... [Full Story]

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Neuheisel to coach Cardinals?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 19, 2003 · Comments (1)

The latest rumor, most likely started by the Arizona Republic's feature today profiling the future candidates for a possible head coaching vacancy with the Cardinals, has the Bidwell family taking a long look at Rick Neuheisel. The fired Washington head coach, let go before the start of this year's college... [Full Story]

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QUANTIFYING FOOTBALL

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 19, 2003 · Comments (2)

Josh Levinhas an excellent piece in Slate explaining why football hasn't had a Bill James. In some senses, this is obvious. As Levin notes, For one thing, a football game is several orders of magnitude more complex than a baseball game. For another, nobody has yet determined what the most... [Full Story]

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Bartman Ball Sells For $106,600

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 19, 2003

From ESPN: The Steve Bartman legend lives on. The foul ball that ricocheted off the infamous Chicago Cubs fan and into the hands of the lawyer sitting behind him sold for $106,600 early Friday morning. The final price not only surpassed the original price paid for the cursed ball that... [Full Story]

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Titans Sign O'Donnell

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 18, 2003

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Veteran quarterback Neil O'Donnell rejoined the Tennessee Titans on Thursday after the NFL approved a deal that the team squeezed under the salary cap. O'Donnell was expected to be at practice Thursday afternoon. Getting O'Donnell back became a necessity after Billy Volek suffered a lacerated spleen in... [Full Story]

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Garcia And Nelson Charged For Bullpen Brawl

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 18, 2003

BOSTON - Yankees Jeff Nelson and Karim Garcia and a Fenway Park groundskeeper were charged with assault and battery Thursday for fighting in New York's bullpen during a playoff game. Clerk Magistrate Michael Neighbors found there was probable cause to charge Nelson and Garcia. He also ruled there was enough... [Full Story]

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Week 15 Freaks of the Week

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 18, 2003

It's playoffs time! All that hard thinking of who to draft, who to pick up off the waiver wires, and who to start each week comes down to these last few games. In my Yahoo league, it's nice that the playoffs don't include the dreaded Week 17. That's usually the... [Full Story]

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Bills Playoff Hopes Dead

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

After an offseason filled with expectations and a regular season filled with disappointments the Buffalo Bills were officially eliminated from the playoffs Sunday, losing a 28-26 thriller in Tennessee. While much attention seems to be focused on a failed two-point conversion, the real problem was a Bledsoe turnover deep in... [Full Story]

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Phony Fines

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

Charles Elmore notes that the NFL has created a rather perverse incentive structure vis-a-vis showboating. The NFL's "punishment" for staged acts of unsportsmanlike conduct has become almost as phony as Joe Horn's cellphone call in the end zone Sunday. Don't believe it? Call Horn. The Saints' receiver practically begged the... [Full Story]

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Dick Vermeil on KC's Run Defense

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

Our run defense is very good about 33 of 35 runs. It's the one bad run that has killed us. It's the same for everybody � the one breakout run. Priest Holmes is in the top of the league in 20-yard runs or more � right up with the best.... [Full Story]

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Fassil Out At Season's End

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

NEW YORK (AP) -- Coach Jim Fassel will be fired by the New York Giants at the end of the season, two football sources told The Associated Press on Wednesday. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Fassel would coach the team's remaining two games. Fassel's firing was... [Full Story]

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Women's Volleyball Update

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

Hawaii and USC remain on a collision course in the NCAA Women's Volleyball Tournament. News can be found here and a current set of brackets here. Really the only surprise in the Final Four is Minnesota who is the equivalent of their region's #4 seed (the NCAA only seeds the... [Full Story]

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Joe Horn, Don't Blame Me

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003 · Comments (2)

Joe Horn picks up a $30,000 fine for his ill-timed cell phone call last Sunday. $30,000? I thought the NFL was going to punish the guy. The NY Giants shouldn't take Horn's act personally. This was blind stupidity. Any apparent targets were purely coincidental. As for Horn's explanation that he... [Full Story]

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Fox Goofed

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 17, 2003

Wisconsin Packers fans have an explanation why the first few minutes of the game against San Diego was missed: Fox 11 did not broadcast the start of the Packers game at San Diego Sunday. Not that it was the station�s fault. Zollar contacted Fox Sports in Los Angeles on Monday... [Full Story]

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Kansas City Defense

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 16, 2003

To tell the truth, I think Kansas City's defense is better than it has shown the last few weeks. They held LaDanian Tomlinson to less than 80 yards in the first game. They were getting turnovers left and right in the first half of the season. They were in the... [Full Story]

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Brees Remains Starter

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 16, 2003

Coach Marty Schottenheimer said quarterback Drew Brees will make a second straight start Sunday at Pittsburgh and, barring the unexpected, work the season finale the following week against visiting Oakland. Brees returned to the lineup Sunday in a 38-21 loss to Green Bay for the first time since being benched... [Full Story]

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I'm a little worried...

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 16, 2003

...about this week's game in Minnesota. I think Kansas City is a better team than many people think right now. Which is fine. I think Kansas City lost those two games because it was the biggest game the Bengals played in all year, and it was the biggest game the... [Full Story]

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Kobe Goes on Offense

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 15, 2003 · Comments (1)

Talk Left has the scoop and links to the three motions by Kobe's legal team seeking to:1) introduce evidence of his accuser's two purported suicide attempts; 2) her being prescribed anti-psychotic medication; and 3) challenging the constitutionality of the rape shield law --on it's face--because the standard for admitting prior... [Full Story]

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Colts Clinch Playoff Spot

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 15, 2003 · Comments (1)

The Colts were dominant in every phase against the Falcons, winning 38-7,Peyton Manning was doing his best, but his heart wasn't in it. His eyes kept wandering, and so did his answers. Buffalo was driving and Manning couldn't help watching. Reporters surrounded him. They peppered him with questions while he... [Full Story]

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Horning in on TO's (Lack of) Class

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 14, 2003 · Comments (1)

The ESPN article has a few nice puns (My favorite is Jim Haslett's, which seemed unintentional), as well as a cool typo on the title. But at least no one can accuse Joe of phoning his performance in, right? Joe Horn has lots of hang-ups, but catching the ball isn't... [Full Story]

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Don't Start Bennett

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 14, 2003

Minnesota running back, Michael Bennett will be inactive for today's game. Rookie Onterrio Smith will start. Be cautious about playing Moe Williams. He has a bum knee, but is expected to play. "Vikings: Smith to Start; Bennett Deactivated"... [Full Story]

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Arizona Beats Marquette

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 14, 2003

A plethora of three-pointers in the second half helped the Wildcats come back from a 15-point deficit. Marquette suffers its first loss of the year. "Wildcats Serve Golden Eagles First Loss"... [Full Story]

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Week 15 Predictions

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 13, 2003

Atlanta at Indianapolis =Indianaopolis Colts Buffalo at Tennessee =Tennessee Titans Detroit at Kansas City =Kansas City Chiefs Houston at Tampa Bay =Tampa Bay Bucs Jacksonville at New England =New England Patriots Minnesota at Chicago =Minnesota Vikings Pittsburgh at N.Y. Jets =Pittsburgh Steelers Seattle at St. Louis =St Louis Rams San... [Full Story]

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Brees To Start

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 13, 2003 · Comments (1)

SAN DIEGO -- Drew Brees is back as the San Diego Chargers' starting quarterback, and Doug Flutie is back on the bench. Brees regained his job on Friday, a move that was expected even though the 41-year-old Flutie led the last-place Chargers to two-thirds of their wins this year. Brees,... [Full Story]

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Buffalo Blather

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 11, 2003

Sabres Hockey The Sabres called goaltender Ryan Miller up from Rochester on Monday in an effort to shake up the rut the team was in. The plan was to have Noronen and Miller alternate with Martin Biron being the number three goalie. Alas, things never quite work out how you... [Full Story]

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Browns Revolving Door

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 11, 2003

Couch is in, Holcomb is out. Seven times this season alone, Butch Davis has changed his mind as to who his starting quarterback is. I think this ESPN.com article put it nicely: "The Browns haven't had a quarterback controversy this season. The revolving door has been a fiasco.." Davis has... [Full Story]

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Pettitte to Astros Confirmed

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 11, 2003

Andy Pettitte has decided to move home, joining the Astros for a three year, $39 million deal that will be announced today at a news conference. For the Astros: I never thought they were serious about Pettitte, and don't think they (Houston) even thought Andy would be an Astro. But... [Full Story]

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Bills Update

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 11, 2003

With the Bills 17-6 win against the Jets on Sunday the team seem to have a buzz around them this week. The convoluted, and nearly impossible, combination of events that would allow them to make the playoffs has been the talk around town, but not around the Bills. For their... [Full Story]

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Grossman To Get First Start

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003 · Comments (4)

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) -- Rex Grossman will make his first NFL start Sunday at quarterback for the Chicago Bears against the first-place Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Grossman, Chicago's first-round draft pick, has not played this season. Veterans Kordell Stewart and Chris Chandler ran the team. ``It's going to... [Full Story]

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Suns Fire Johnson

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003

PHOENIX - Frank Johnson was fired as coach of the Phoenix Suns after an 8-13 start to the season, a team source told The Associated Press on Wednesday. The Suns said they would have a news conference but did not say why. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told... [Full Story]

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Quit Piling on the BCS

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003 · Comments (1)

OK, OK. Enough already! Bandwagon hoppers who can't use their brains really annoy me. Obviously, in sports, the target of the hour is the BCS. Now I've been quick and vigorous in my criticism of the BCS. Actually I don't fault the BCS itself. My criticism has always centered around... [Full Story]

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Capitals fire Cassidy; Defenseman Witt out for possibly a week.

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003

Capitals General Manager George McPhee announced Bruce (Butch) Cassidy will be replaced by Glen Hanlon as head coach of the Capitals. The official announcement will be at 3:30 PM (Eastern). A small press release is available on the Capitals website. In other news, Defenseman Brendan Witt was injured in the... [Full Story]

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REEVES FIRED

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003

AP reports, The Atlanta Falcons fired Dan Reeves on Wednesday, dismissing the sixth-winningest coach in NFL history with three games left in a disappointing season, a team source told The Associated Press. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will take over as head coach for the rest of the season, the source... [Full Story]

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Is 9/11 His Fault Too?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003

The "one man" in his one-man team gets injured and misses all but the last game, and he loses his job? Makes sense to me!Atlanta Falcons fire Reeves Associated Press December 10, 2003 FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Atlanta Falcons fired Dan Reeves today, dismissing the sixth-winningest coach in NFL... [Full Story]

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Week 14 Freaks of the Week

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 10, 2003

They announced the Grammy nominations this week, but in fantasy football world we let the world know who's best by handing out Freaks of the Week. Let's get rockin'. The Quarterback Freak goes to a guy who racked up points using both his arm and his feet. No, I'm not... [Full Story]

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ARMY HIRES ROSS

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 9, 2003

Wow: ESPN reports, Army is counting on Bobby Ross and his record of success to turn around college football's worst team. Ross was hired to lead Army on Tuesday, returning to football after resigning as the Detroit Lions' coach three years ago. His football experience is vast: Ross coached the... [Full Story]

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Why Go for Two?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 9, 2003 · Comments (2)

You know the Packers had a pretty good win Sunday when the number one item of talk on local radio is why Mike Sherman went for the two-point conversion when his team was up by 11. According to "The Chart" he should have just sent out Ryan Longwell.... [Full Story]

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BCS Winners and Losers

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003

Winner: The Rose Bowl It's nice to welcome old friends. Pac-10 Champion and Big Ten Champion meet on New Year's Day for first time in the Millenium. That's sugar-sweet. #1 USC and #4 Michigan will play a rematch of the 1948, 1970, 1977, 1979, 1989 and 1990 Granddaddies-of-them-All (USC victories... [Full Story]

Rating: 4/5 (1 votes cast)

BLOWING UP THE BRAVES

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003

We knew it was coming, but the Atlanta Braves' long run is finally over. ESPN reports that they are slashing salary and getting rid of several of their big stars, to replace them mostly with kids up from the farm. As expected, the Braves didn't offer arbitration to the four-time... [Full Story]

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Colts Take Control of AFC South

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003

The Indianapolis Colts secured a monumental victory on Sunday,It might not always have been great football, but what happened Sunday at The Coliseum was a great football game, and a brutally competitive one. "They're a physical team, and when they punch you, you've got to punch them back," Indianapolis linebacker... [Full Story]

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The BCS Blew It

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003 · Comments (1)

Well, the BCS did get one thing right this year: they brought back the classic matchup of Big 10-Pac 10 in the Rose Bowl - likely for all the marbles, in one poll at least. But overall, this has got to be the worst showing from the BCS system yet.... [Full Story]

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My Take on the BCS

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003 · Comments (2)

First off: I am for a playoff. Second: don�t count on this being the death-knell of the BCS. For one thing, what are we all talking about? Big Time College Football, that�s what. And why? Because of the BCS. Plus, the frustration may not be so high after the games... [Full Story]

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Fixing College Football

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 8, 2003

Artie Gigantino at FoxSports.com offers plenty of tweaks for the BCS (we're stuck with it until 2005). Then he goes on to suggest conference expansion so there would be more championship games. There's plenty to chew on. "BCS Adjustments, More Realignment Will Fix Football"... [Full Story]

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Computer Analysis in Sports

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003 · Comments (3)

To start a discussion how come computer rankings for college football take such a beating, yet statistical mavens are the big think in football? Sabermetricians are hot, while the BCS is not. What gives? UPDATE: To help you with what I'm interested in here a portion of Gerry Fraley's op-ed... [Full Story]

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BCS NIGHTMARE II

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003 · Comments (1)

David Teel has some interesting observations on the BCS fiasco. [T]his [was an] unfathomable regular season (Oklahoma loses to Kansas State, which loses to Marshall, which loses to Troy State, which loses to Middle Tennessee State, which loses to Temple, which loses to Division I-AA Villanova), in which no team... [Full Story]

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USC Beaten by Equation

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003 · Comments (1)

The BCS rankings are out and the number one team in the nation will be shut out of the National Championship game. Even though USC is number one in both the coaches' and AP polls, Oklahoma and LSU are are one and two respectively. While there are many reasons to... [Full Story]

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Smith is Sack King

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003 · Comments (4)

The Washington Redskins' Bruce Smith has just passed Reggie White as the all-time sack leader with 199.... [Full Story]

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BCS NIGHTMARE

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003

ESPN has released their final regular season football rankings. The top five: RK TEAM RCS PTS PVS 1. USC (37) 11-1 1,542 2 2. LSU (18) 12-1 1,516 3 3. Oklahoma (8) 12-1 1,449 1 4. Michigan 10-2 1,393 4 5. Texas 10-2 1,272 6 The speculation on ESPN's Sports... [Full Story]

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A DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN (FOOTBALL) INFAMY

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 7, 2003 · Comments (1)

The football team of the United States Military Academy set a record that is unlikely to be surpassed: In being drubbed by Navy for the second straight year, they became the first team in NCAA Division I-A history to finish with an 0-13 record. This is another sad chapter for... [Full Story]

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Prediction for Sunday

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 5, 2003

Denver has a huge home-field advantage (as do Denver teams in every sport) and they've beaten Kansas City the last two years at home. AFC West interdivision games always seem to be close no matter how good the teams are otherwise. Kansas City is the better team, but Denver is... [Full Story]

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Brunell "most definately" leaving Jags next season

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 5, 2003

Not exactly coming as a shock, but the Jacksonville Jaguars are set to lose the franchises first starting Quarterback and star next season as Mark Brunell confirmed that he "Without a doubt, most definitely," won't be back. Mark Brunell clarified his status Wednesday: He definitely will not be a Jaguar... [Full Story]

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Miami Wins the MAC

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 5, 2003

Ben Roethlisberger threw for 440 yards and four touchdowns in Miami's win over Bowling Green. Miami will be headed to the GMAC Bowl while Bowling Green accepted a bid to the Motor City Bowl. "(14) Miami (OH) 49, (20) Bowling Green 27"... [Full Story]

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"Baby" Joe Mesi on HBO

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

"Baby" Joe Mesi will fight Monte "Two Gunz" Barrett Saturday night at MSG as the undercard to the Vitali Klitschko/Kirk Johnson fight. Mesi has been progressing steadily up the ranks of the Heavyweight division, and now is ranked fourth by the WBC. The WBA and WBO both have him ninth,... [Full Story]

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Sheffield and Yanks a Perfect Fit

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

Not that there was any doubt where Sheffield would go, but this article shows what a great match they are. Sheff busts out some sweet ones: "The Red Sox can say what they want, but look at us. Who's going to beat us? Nobody." They offered a three-year, $36 million... [Full Story]

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Okay, here's a true fan

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

Jeff Renne was up on forgery charges. The problem was that there is no television at the reception center where inmates go before they are moved to one of the state's prisons. But inmates at the Franklin County jail, where Renne was being held pending, get to watch TV. He... [Full Story]

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Fans scourn Federov on return

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

Federov received a less than warm welcome at his first game at the Joe since he left Detroit and an 80 million dollar deal behind to play for the Mighty Ducks. The Red Wings beat Anaheim 7 - 2, their fourth straight win under goalie Manny Legace. In my opinion,... [Full Story]

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Ilitch Sees the Light?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003 · Comments (2)

Mike Ilitch says he is opening up his purse to spend on something other than 38 year old defensemen and retired goaltenders. That's right, he is actually going to allow the Detroit Tigers to use major league level baseball players. While discussing GM Dave Dombrowski he had this to say:... [Full Story]

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Flutie To Start Again

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

Marty Schottenheimer has elected to start Doug Flutie this weekend when the San Diego Chargers go to Detroit to play the Lions. This team has failed to live up to any of the preseason expectations and now are debatably the currently worst ran franchise in the NFL. The Chargers' defense... [Full Story]

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Yanks Acquire Vazquez

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

The AP is reporting that the Expos and Yankees have reached a deal that will send Javier Vazquez to the Bronx. Being a Yankees fan means you never have to say, we're just one piece away.... [Full Story]

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Packers Legend Buried

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 4, 2003

Running back Tony Canadeo, the "Grey Ghost," was buried in Green Bay yesterday. The Hall of Fame halfback died last Saturday at the age of 84. In 1949, he became the third player to rush for over 1,000 yards. Now, every season, many players accomplish that feet. Canadeo is fourth... [Full Story]

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Hawkins Signs With Cubs - Pierzynksi To Giants

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 3, 2003

CHICAGO (Ticker) - LaTroy Hawkins, one of baseball's premier setup men last season with the Minnesota Twins, signed with the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. Hawkins agreed to a two-year contract with a player option for the third season. Terms were not disclosed, but ESPN Radio 1000 reported that the deal... [Full Story]

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Week 13 Freaks of the Week

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 3, 2003

In Week 13 we had fantasy studs prove why owners drafted them so high. Lots of points were scored, and with tight races most teams have an incentive to keep playing their best players. This should make for a very exciting final stretch of the season. The running back race... [Full Story]

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Bennett's Back

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003

Dick Bennett got bored with retirement. So the coach who led the Wisconsin Badgers to the Final Four in 2000 went west to build up the dismal Washington State Cougars. "Bennett Resurfaces to Rebuild WSU"... [Full Story]

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Leafs on winning streak

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003 · Comments (2)

The Leafs beat the Rangers 5-4 in the ACC. Toronto extend their winning streak to six. Things are certainly looking good for the boys in blue.... [Full Story]

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Nation's Best Punter

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003

While much of the attention for All-American ballots will be focused on USC stars Matt Leinart and Mike Williams, one player should not go unnoticed: Punter Tom Malone. Tom Malone unofficially has the highest punting averages in the nation...at 48.83 yards. However, to qualify for the official standings, a punter... [Full Story]

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Hot Stove Anyone?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003

As much as I hate to write anything about the New York Yankees, it is a painful necessity if you want to discuss baseball free agents and trades. So settle in with some hot stove talk, although I wouldn�t expect things to really heat up until December 7, when arbitration... [Full Story]

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Yankee Spend-o-thon begins

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003

The AL East arms race continues after Schilling's move to the Sox as the Yankees reportedly have reached terms with Gary Sheffield to occupy their gaping RF hole. Fanball.com has the story... [Full Story]

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Utah Jazz win big over New Jersey

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 2, 2003

The Utah Jazz are on fire when it comes to home games. These guys are 9 and 1 at home and 10 and 6 overall. They have one of the best home records in the NBA right now. There�re only a half game back of Dallas in the Mid West... [Full Story]

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Sabres Update

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 1, 2003

The Sabres went 2-2 over the long holiday weekend, winning at home against Washington, losing in Nashville, and splitting a home and away series with Florida. The recent four game stretch perfectly illustrates exactly what the Sabres are right now; an average team with good growth potential. Miro Satan is... [Full Story]

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Bills Beat Giants 24-7

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 1, 2003

Drew Bledsoe threw for 252 yards and two touchdown passes in leading the Bills to a 24-7 pasting of the New York Giants in a battle of disappointing teams. Bledsoe took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Keith Hamilton in the third quarter, stayed in to lead the Bills to a game... [Full Story]

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Bobby Ross to Duke?

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 1, 2003

Reports indicate that Bobby Ross, now 66, is a contender for the head coaching job at Duke. Interim coach Ted Roof is also strongly being considered because of his record after taking over mid-season from the deposed Carl Franks. Other names mentioned include Norm Chow from Southern California, Hue Jackson... [Full Story]

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Bowden Named ACC Coach of the Year

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 1, 2003

According to TigerIllustrated.com, Tommy Bowden will be named ACC Coach of the Year. The report indicates that Ralph Friedgen finished second in the voting. The official ACC website confirms the report.... [Full Story]

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Peyton: "Next Week is Huge"

Posted by Sports Blog Archive · Published: December 1, 2003

You want your team to move on after a heartbreaking loss, especially with the division lead on the line next week and Peyton Manning was in that frame of mind yesterday,This is over," quarterback Peyton Manning stated flatly. "As disappointing as it is, it's over. The Titans game next week... [Full Story]

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December 2003 Archives

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