Future Hall of Famer Retires

Patriots Linebacker and in my opinion future Hall of Famer Teddy Bruschi has annouced his retirement. He spent 13 years with the Pats, instilling fear into NFL offenses. The man only played one way, and that was balls out, non-stop, every play! Teddy was an absolute field general on defense. Not only is he a great leader, but he was a great teammate, always willing to help fellow teammates on and off the field. Those are just some of the intangables that makes him a future Hall of Famer, he also has the stats to prove it. Starting with his 3 super bowl rings (5 super bowl apperances) his Pats teams also have 8 AFC East titles. Bruschi is responsible for 30.5 sacks, 12 interceptions, 4 of which he took back for touchdowns. He also has the Pats record for playoff games at 22. Last, but not least, was when he won the 2005 comeback player of the year award after suffering a minor stroke. Quoting his former coach Bill Belichick "He was the perfect player", and just maybe Coach Belichick has this one right.

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Update on Smith Deal

The Cincinnati Bengals OL Andre Smith's Deal is reported as four years, 26 million with 21 million guaranteed.

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Andre Smith Signs

The Cincinnati Bengals and 1st round pick (6th overall) Andre Smith have agreed to undisclosed terms. The team flew the offensive lineman into town today with expectations to sign him and get him on the field by the 3 p.m. practice. With Smith's signing, this leaves only Michael Crabtree (S.F. 49ers 1st round pick) unsigned. How does this effect the Bengals roster? The Bengals will probably use the two week exemption, which means he can practice but not play in a game. This includes Thursday night's preseason game against the Colts and the regular season opener against Denver.

Please post your comments...

Byron Leftwich a Starter Again

In his 7th year out of Marshall, Byron Leftwich has regained a starting position with his newest team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After starting four years with the Jags (03-06) he moved on to Atlanta. Their he replaced Joey Harrington as the starter, but after starting just two games he was sidelined with ankle and back injuries. His last stint in '08 was with the Steelers as a backup, where he played in five games. (None as a starter)

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Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts has been one of the most dominate teams in the NFL for the past decade. They have had the same system, same coaches, and of course the same quarterback for all these successful seasons. Here it is now 2009 and the first season where three time mvp quarterback Payton Manning is entering a season with out his same coaches and a different system. Colts have lost their head coach Tony Dungy, who has a very impressive record of 92-33 as a head coach for the colts. He also led the colts to the playoffs for all 7 years he spent in indianapolis. With very big shoes to fill former colt's quarterback coach Jim Caldwell is taking over for Tony Dungy as head coach. What should be a pretty easy transition for Caldwell, only time shall tell if he will be able to continue the colts winning traditions. The Colts have won at least 12 games the past six season, so it will be interesting to see if Payton Manning can led the colts to another great season.

What Happened to the Dodgers?

The Los Angeles Dodgers were the hottest team in baseball leading up to the All-Star break with a 56-30 record. However, since the All-Star break the Dodgers have been a mediocre 20-20. What happened in L.A.? The Colorado Rockies are making a push on the Dodgers and putting heat on the NL West title. Who's to blame in L.A.? Is it the return of Mannie Ramirez? Mannie being Mannie? Or is it something else? The Dodgers were the team to beat in all of MLB but now the crown has been passed to the New York Yankees. The Yankees have a better overall record then the Dodgers and have a more dangerous line-up then the Dodgers. But this post isn't about the Yankees. Its about what is going on in L.A. I want to hear from you baseball fans out there. What do you think? Are the Dodgers getting too comfortable? Is it Mannie? Is it something else? I want to hear what you think. Thanks! Peace!

11th and Counting

Former Arizona Cardinals runningback Edgerrin James has agreed to a one year , 2 million dollar contract. The once University of Miami(FL) standout is coming into his eleventh season and is the leagues active leading rusher with 12, 121 yards. The ex Colts and Cardinals star now calls Seattle home, under new Head Coach Jim Mora and new Offensive Coordinator Greg Knapp's zone blocking scheme. The 31 year old James hopes to continue climbing up the rushing ladder. Already in the Seahawk's back field is RB Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett, and second year man Justin Forsett. There combined seasons equal a rushing yardage total of 5, 125 fewer than newly aquired James. The ten year veteran has past Franco Harris last year to land at eleventh on the all- time rushing list. Edgerrin is only 158 yards behind Marcus Allen and Marshall Falk, and 191 behind Jim Brown for eighth all time. So where do you think Edge will end up when he hangs the cleats up?

River's Deal

Shortly after the New York Giants lock down quarterback Eli Manning, the San Diego Chargers think it is a good idea as well. Their quarterback Phillip Rivers has thrown for over 10,000 yards in the last three seasons. Coming off the best year of his career where he led the NFL in quarterback passer ratings at 105, and touchdowns with 34, Rivers receives a six year contract extension worth 92 million and 38 million guaranteed. It's a good thing that General Manager A.J. Smith listened to Team President Dan Spanos when he said, "Phillip has proven that he has all the necessary qualities to be a successful quarterback in the NFL." Rivers, now 27 was in the final year of his 40.5 million dollar rookie contract since 2004, and would have been an unrestricted free agent this up-coming spring. But now with the extension, all minds are on football and winning the Superbowl!

Beaseley in Rehab!!

Several days ago Michael Beasely told his personal manager that he was working out in Houston, Texas because, it was a change of scenery compared to Miami, and Washington. Then the mystery begins, even those closest to Michael didn't see the following coming.The Miami Heat forward checked himself into Houston Rehabilitation Facility last week. Two people from the Beaseley camp who were briefed on the situation, spoke to the associate press on monday, each spoke anonimously because of privacy concerns. One said Beaseley's treatment was focused on stress related issues. Both denied that Beaseley was having any kind of drug or alcohol counseling. It is unknown how long Michael will remain in the facility, or how it will affect him having to report to Miami Training Camp on September 23.

Palmer!

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer did do some light tossing sunday, but did not practice with the team. Palmer, who suffered a high ankle sprain in last thursdays pre-season game against the New England Patriots, is now questionable for todays pre-season game against the St. Louis Rams. Palmer is coming into his fourth season, and out of the previous six he has had three of them cut short due to injuries. Many of his critics have alot to say such as: he is an injury prone, non- reliable QB, and that he is not an elite QB. However, I think there is a bigger issue that has gotten overlooked, and that is Carson's O- Line, it has been less than stellar the last few years. Which brings me to my next rant...sign Andre Smith! You drafted this kid to be a Carson Palmer body guard, so get him on the field so he can do just that! Even though Carson's injuries have been some-what freakish, his protection has to be there in order for this team to have a chance at making the playoffs, or further!

College All-American Defensive Team of 2009

DE- George Selvie, USF

DT- Noamnkong Sun, Nebraska

DE- Jerry Hughes, TCU

ILB- Rolando McClain, Alabama

ILB- Brandon Spikes, Florida

OLB- Navorro Bowman, Penn St

OLB- Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri

FS-Taylor Mays, USC

SS- Eric Berry, Tennessee

CB- Trevard Lindley, Kentucky

CB- Alterraun Verner, UCLA

College All-American Offensive Team of 2009

WR- Eric Decker, Minnesota

WR- Dez Bryant, Oklahoma St

TE-Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma

OT- Ciron Black, LSU

G- Jeff Byers, USC

C- Kris O'Dowd, USC

G- Rodney Hudson, Florida St

OT- Russell Okung, Oklahoma St

QB- Tim Tebow, Florida

RB- Jahvid Best, Cal

RB- Jonathan Dwyer, GA Tech

Sports Talk is Expanding

Hey everyone!

I just wanted to let everyone know that first off we are very thankful for the support we have and the comments we have been receiving. We hope that this continues and grows.

I just wanted to take the time today to let current and new fans know that Sports Talk is expanding. Along with our Twitter account and Facebook fan page, we now have a webpage that centralizes all of these things. The new website is: http://sportstalk513.webs.com/index.htm. Here you can find the link to our blog page along with Twitter and Facebook fan page for now. It will also contain a section about each of the authors and myself.

Speaking of authors we have two new writers added to the team yesterday. They are my friends John and Antwon. They will be joining Brian, Curtis and myself in posting sports stories and features from real fans - not analysts.

I hope to continue to receive comments on our posts and hear some feedback on our new webpage. Please spread the word!!!

Thanks,
Sports Talk Team

Craziest Football Fan Contest

With football season less than 3 weeks away, we are going to have a contest. Submit your pictures or videos to the facebook fanpage (link located on the right of the screen). I want to see you support your team and prove to us that you are the craziest fan! We will select a winner the day of the first NFL game (Thursday, September 10). Get them posted!!!

Who Is the True High School Football Powerhouse?

Next weekend brings the beginning of another exciting high school football season in the Cincinnati area. In the top 10 preseason poll according to maxpreps.com, Cincinnati has two teams in the top 10 (7. Colerain and 9. Elder). This is more than the state of Texas and Florida each have and it is the same amount as California has. Ohio is a high school football powerhouse that too often gets overlooked. Everyone always hears about how high school football is basically a religion in Texas and how Florida has all the speed and how California produces the receivers. Where is Ohio's credit? Ohio takes high school football very seriously. Friday nights (and sometimes Saturdays) are a ritual here in Ohio. People come and support their schools, whether they are current students or alumni, in full force.

However, the last few years, the crosstown shootout has turned into Ohio vs. USA type matchup. This year Elder High School will face East St. Louis to kick off the 2009 season. Ohio is starting to get some of the respect it deserves. ESPN even aired a few games last year or two years ago of the shootout. More and more high schools in Ohio are producing NFL players now too.

And if you want to get really specific about high school football talent in Ohio, you can find it in Cincinnati. Cincinnati alone has three very dominant programs as of late (Elder, Colerain and St. Xavier) and has always had a rich history of dominant football programs (including Moeller and Princeton). So my question to all you fans (and hopefully I can hear from those out in Texas, California, and Florida), do you think Ohio is a powerhouse for high school football and where do you think it ranks among Texas, Cali, and Florida? Let me know! Peace!

AP 25

1. Florida

2. Texas

3. Oklahoma

4. USC

5. Alabama

6. Ohio St.

7. Virgina Tech.

8. Mississippi

9. Penn St.

10. LSU

11. Oklahoma t.

12. Cal.

13. Oregon

14. Georgia

15. Boise St.

16. Georgia Tech.

17. TCU

18. Notre Dame

19. Nebraska

20. Florida St.

21. Iowa

22. North Carolina

23. BYU

24. Miami (FL)

25. Kansas

OVERSHADOWED

Compound all the early hype surrounding the Cutler-Orton trade and their preseason matchup (Sun. Aug. 30th @ Mile High) with Farve's two matchups against the Packers in the regular season. His first, the one in the dome when the Pack come to town (Monday Night Football, Oct. 5th) and more notebly when he leads his new team and arche rival Minnesota Vikings into Lambeau on Sun. Nov. 1st. All those matchups deserve the hype they're getting but the forgotten soul in all this is Cedric Benson of the Cincinnati Bengals. He has a rematch with the team that tossed him to the curb when the Chicago Bears come to P.B.S. on Sun. Oct. 25th. The soft spoken Benson may not admit to it but I know he's got that date circled on his calendar. Beleive me when I say he's going to be determined to prove to the team that drafted him 4th overall out of Texas in 2005 made a mistake by cutting him. In closing, I think he'll step up big against the Bears and in 2009, do you?

Please post your comments.

A request by a follower

A follower of our blog requested I ask one simple question...Who is your NFL breakout player this year? As you already know from one of my old blogs mine is Chris Henry. Please tell us yours with or without a reason why.

Chad Ochocinco.... the kicker?

We all know about Chad Ochocinco and how he wants to constantly challenge other people (or other animals) in what they do. His list includes him racing a horse, challenging Michael Phelps to a swim race and wanting to take up boxing. But who would've guessed Ochocinco to be a kicker. Well, in last night's preseason matchup against the New England Patriots he did just that. With kicker Shayne Graham sitting out due to a tender groin, Chad Ochocinco accepted the challenge. After the Bengals scored their first touchdown in the second quarter, Ochocinco came out and not only attempted, but successfully kicked the extra point. He looked like a regular kicker. He then kicked the kickoff which made it to about the 10 or 15 yard line.

Is Chad the Bengals' new backup kicker? When Coach Lewis was asked about it after the game he just said "Chad is crazy."

Chad Ochocinco is crazy and known to talk a lot of smack, but most of the time is able to back up what he says (except for last year's disappointing season). Besides his kicking skills last night, Ochocinco also had some nice catches. I think Ochocinco will be back to his normal self this season and will emerge in the top 10 receivers again this year. That is my prediction. Chad Ochocinco will be in the top 10 wide receivers this year. Chris Henry will also have a breakout year to make the Bengals offense even more deadly.

What do you think? Is Chad all talk or can he back it up? Will he help the Bengals succeed this season or will it be another disappointing season? Let me know! Who Dey! Peace!

My NFL Predictions

Here are my predictions for the 2009 NFL Season. There will be no analysis or explanation in this posting. This is simply my predictions for the NFL Season. I want to hear what you think and then I'll explain.

AFC East:
1. New England Patriots
2. Miami Dolphins
3. New York Jets
4. Buffalo Bills

AFC North:
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. Cincinnati Bengals
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Cleveland Browns

AFC South:
1. Indianapolis Colts
2. Tennessee Titans
3. Houston Texans
4. Jacksonville Jaguars

AFC West:
1. San Diego Chargers
2. Denver Broncos
3. Kansas City Chiefs
4. Oakland Raiders

NFC East:
1. Philadelphia Eagles
2. New York Giants
3. Dallas Cowboys
4. Washington Redskins

NFC North:
1. Chicago Bears
2. Minnesota Vikings
3. Green Bay Packers
4. Detroit Lions

NFC South:
1. Carolina Panthers
2. Atlanta Falcons
3. New Orleans Saints
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

NFC West:
1. Arizona Cardinals
2. Seattle Seahawks
3. San Francisco 49ers
4. St. Louis Rams

Playoffs:
AFC:
Patriots
Ravens
Colts
Chargers
Bengals
Dolphins

NFC:
Eagles
Bears
Panthers
Cardinals
Giants
Vikings

AFC Championship: Ravens vs. Chargers
NFC Championship: Eagles vs. Panthers

Super Bowl: Ravens vs. Eagles
Champ: Philadelphia Eagles

I know this is crazy but this is what my gut said. Let me know what you think! Peace!

Heisman Watch

The college season is on the Verge of explosion, this year should be one for the history books. If not for the whole season at least for one award, the highly sought after Heisman Trophy! there are plenty of choices and you could make an argument for any one of them. From Texas Senior play caller Colt McCoy. Colt is a great leader, defences respect is ability to run when protection breaks down. McCoy also has a quick release which is huge at the next level. Another eye catcher for NFL scouts is his 77% completion rating. McCoy does have two huge advantages this season, the same O-Line from last year as well as his favorite target Jordan Shipley. Colt is, going up against fan favorite Florida Senior quarterback Tim Tebow, which will probably go down as the greatest college player of all time. But out side of his celebrity quality Tebow has a lot of questions to answer like, does his Gators deserve the number one spot. How will his numbers be effected by the arrival of new QB coach Scott Loeffler, as well as departure of his number one receiver Percy Harvin. Now to round out the top three we have last year winner, Junior QB Sam Bradford, the Oklahoma star has some problems of his own, starting with a rebuilt O-Line. But Bradford still has plenty of weapons especially TE Jarmaine Gresham. He also has early compelling match-ups against BYU and, at Miami. But the wild card in this whole Heisman race is Tennessee Safety, Eric Berry. If this award is truly about " the most outstanding player" and not best offensive weapon, then this ball hawk deserves to be in the discussion. Berry is a play making machine, equal parts big hitter and interception magnet. As well as a lethal return man. Coming into his Junior season he is only 15 yards shy of breaking the NCAA record for most interception return yards. So can Eric do what no defencive player has done in 12 years, since 1997 Michigan CB Charles Woodson won the Heisman Trophy beating out Volunteers QB, Payton Manning. Berry does have two hurdles to get past unfortunately, first being the stigma that defencive players don't win Heisman's and in this BCS era, a player's consideration also depends on how well his team does. Even with all of coach Lane Kiffins antics most analysts don't see Tennessee having better then an 8-4 record!

SHAQ Vs.......

Tonight, Tuesday August 18, at 9 p.m. ET, what will you be watching? Will you be watching Shaq's new reality TV show, " SHAQ Vs." The basis of this show,is for Shaq to take on other top athletes in there own sports. We have seen many things of this nature with T.O. having his show and Stephen Marberry on U-Stream and chad Ochocinco racing a horse. The first Episode pairs Shaq with Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterback "Big" Ben Roethlisburger in the football arena. What other odds will Shaq face, well other shows will host guest like Olympic swimmer Micheal Phelps, Boxing Legend Oscar De La Hoya, St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols, Women Tennis superstar Serena Williams, and Volleyball Olympians Misty May-Treaner and Kerri Walsh.The origin of the show came about because Shaq wanted to getting shape for the upcoming NBA season as well as he felt that fans wanted too see an athlete play other sports. USA Today reported that the show will feature preliminary challenges, news conferences, quality time with needy kids and of negotiations of handicaps between Shaq and his competitors- and then the climax of the show the main event. there are no money of prizes " bragging rights is always a better then some monetary prize." But all you Caviler fans out there don't worry Shaq will ready by September 15, for the Cleavland Cavilers training camp!

Insane...Usain...Bolt!

The kid that was born to run. With a name like Bolt what else is there to do, but run. Dude is a record breaking machine,just two days removed from running a 9.58 breaking the world record in the 100 meter for the second time in a year. In 2008 at the Beijing Olympics Bolt ran a 9.69 to win the gold metal in the 100 meter sprint. Bolt hold three of the top five world records in the 100 meters - 9.58, 9.69, and 9.72.But bolt is not finished, he not only wants to dominate the 100m but the 200m as well. Finishing first with a time of 20.4, 1.11 off of his world record of 19.3! With American /superstar and defending Champion Tyson Gay out of competition because of injury Bolt is easily the favorite. America does/has to step there game up if they want to stay relevant in the track world. coming off an 0-5 beat down at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and now an 0-2 start against the Jamaicans, they must figure out how to stop seeing the back of the yellow and green jersey's. but more bad news for the Americans, sports statistician say Bolt new record is 20 years to early. Progression chart shows that new one should run faster then Bolt till 2030. Dr. Richard Ferguson Senior Lecturer in exercise physiology at Loughborough University believes that Usain's 6'5" frame is key to success. Longer legs equals longer muscles which makes possible for faster speeds and high velocity. So now the only real question facing Bolt is how fast the 22 year old Jamaican and the human body capable of running?

U.C. Bearcats !

Sept 7- @ Rutgers

Sept 12- South East Missouri State

Sept 19- @ Oregon State

Sept 26- Fresno State

Oct 3- @ Miami Ohio

Oct 15- @ USF

Oct24- Louisville

Oct 31- @ Syracuse

Nov 7- Connecticut

Nov 13- West Virgina

Nov 27- Illinois

Dec 5- @ Pittsburgh

Retirement: Brett Favre Does Not Know the Meaning

Today, August 18, 2009, Brett Favre, flew from his hometown in Mississippi to Minnesota to meet with Childress of the Minnesota Vikings. Favre is expected to sign with the Vikings today. To most fans I am sure you are not surprised. Brett Favre has been questioning retirement for years now. Then, last summer, we all got to follow the breakup of Favre and the Packers. The Packers were willing to let him play for anyone else in the league EXCEPT for the Minnesota Vikings - the Packers' longtime rival. As we all know, Favre signed with the New York Jets and played one season there. He came close to leading the Jets to the playoffs but fell short. Favre did help the Jets become more of a competitor in the AFC East and handed, then at the time, Tennessee's first loss of the season late in the season.

There is no doubt in my mind Brett Favre will be enshrined in Canton, Ohio at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. However, will it happen when he is still playing? Who would've thought back in 1991 when Favre was a part of the Atlanta Falcons, that he would turn into one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, give us some of our most memorable memories and go through uncertainties of leaving the game he loves. I do understand where Brett is coming from too. I am sure it is hard to let go of the game you love; your life. However, Brett needs to realize he is not a kid anymore. He is a 39 year old man playing a young man's game. He may be the Iron Horse of the league with the most consecutive starts ever, but he can't stop the aging his body is going through. He needs to realize the end is here. Stop trying to prolong it. He is making it hard on his fans and his legacy. I love Brett Favre, but I am also getting tired of this. Either retire or don't.

But with that being said, I don't care for the going in and out of retirement merry-go-round but I do respect the love and passion Favre has for the game. I will always be a fan of his, but he will also always be a Green Bay Packer to me. It will be interesting to see when the Packers play the Vikings. As a fan I am super excited. I think Favre is a beast and we shall see if he still has it. What do you think? Voice your opinion on here. You support Favre coming back? Or are you sick of the circus? Please let me know. We love to hear from you; the fans! Peace!

Oh by the way, what's next? Is John Madden coming out of retirement now also to announce Favre's games??? BOOOOM!!!!

Yang Showed Us Tiger IS Human

Y.E. Yang. No one in the sports world have heard of this man from South Korea. The man who was ranked 11oth in the world in golf. The man now known as the one who defeated Tiger Woods in the final round of the PGA Championship yesterday by three shots! Yesterday was clearly and obviously the biggest day in Yang's career as a professional golfer. He showed the world that Tiger Woods, the best golfer in the world, is still human. Tiger has an uncanny skill in the game of golf but even Tiger has his off days. Tiger struggled in his putting game yesterday allowing Mr. Yang to take and hold the lead. For you Tiger fans out there, don't hold your head down. Tiger will be back. Tiger is still the best in the world. Even though he lost yesterday, this is still very exciting.

Events like this give sports fans a reason to watch the game no matter what. If the overall best individual or team (based on record) is always supposed to win, then what is the point in watching the event? This is the reason why we play the game/round/series. Its because it gives anyone a chance. It gives the underdog the chance to have his/her day. I like Tiger alot and like many people my age he is the reason we started golfing. However, I am very excited to see that he can be beaten. It shows that he is not a machine and that he is in fact human. Tiger is also a perfect example of someone who works very hard at their game or skill or job to make himself near perfect.

Yang should be inspiration to all of us as well. Look at what Yang did and remember that when you are facing something that is supposed to be better than you or in a situation where you are supposed to lose or fail. Sports are a nice microcosm of the real world. Sports show that it takes hard work and dedication and sometimes pain to achieve the ultimate goal you are after. Sports show us true emotions of happiness and joy to heart break and defeat. Tiger is a perfect example of someone who has perfected their craft and Yang is a perfect example of someone who never gave up and gave it his all. Please comment me on what you think. Agree? Disagree? Will love to hear. Peace!

Gladiator Vs. Cyborg

There are more and more up and coming females fights in the world of MMA, there is just one major problem there is very little coverage for women. But i have a Feeling all that is going to change. Tonight August 15, Showtime will air Gina Carano Vs. Christina "Cyborg" Santos the main bout. This fight has the Ali-Frazier type of hype, it has been a long time coming. That is what makes Gina so special, she understands all this. There is no one more important to there sport thin Carano. The NFL made it last season with out Tom Brady, Barry Bonds has not played a game since 2007 but yet tickets still get sold, Tiger didn't play a single hole of golf for nine months but all tour events still got broad casted. If Carano quit today she would take women MMA down with her. She is the first women to appear on both premium cable and network television and now the headliner of a main event fight card. But don get it twisted the former American Gladiator and Maxim cover girl will but her 7-0 record to the test, her toughest test. Santos is a match made nightmare for Carano who like to avoid take downs and pick her opponent apart wit her stand up game. but see that's just it Santos has concrete for hands. Often compared to fellow Brazilian Wanderlei Silva, the 24 year old former handball player who also hails from the same Chute Boxe Gym Silva made famous, wants her deserved respect in the women MMA world. Gina does have a few tricks up her sleeve though one trick being wrestler turned UFC vet Randy Couture. The breakthrough women MMA star has been training with Couture day in and day out. A main focus is her conditioning, now that the round setup has been changed from the previous five, three minute rounds to five, five minute rounds, because of the large out cry from Jujitsu fighters who feel that the shorter rounds do not allow them to work there game plan, giving strikers the advantage. But two things are very clear, one this fight i the life's blood of women MMA and two when that day comes and Gina has to hang hr gloves up she will have left it in a much better spotlight then when she arrived!

Welcome To The Jungle!

See I'm one of those rare fans that loves the preseason. I understand that when I'm watching football I'm watching privileged men, play a child's game. I think all that once the season starts all that gets lost. During the preseason you get the chance to evaluate your talent, you get to watch all the passion, and heat that these players leave on the field, because there fighting for there life, there careers, to have the chance to provide for there families in a way that only a few can. I do have expectations like every one else, so therefore there are a few things I'm going to be looking for. First and most importantly I want to see how Carson Palmer will do when getting hit, it's been 313 days, that's right, October fifth was the last time Palmer has been put on his back. Bengals go only as far as Palmer goes, knowing this I'm also curious to not only see how the offensive line holds up, but how it holds up with 1st round draft pick RT Andre Smith. Another head scratcher will be to see if the Bengals will line up DT Jason Shirley at the Guard position. Now to what the preseason is for evaluating talent,the last two April's we spent a few draft picks on the offensive side of the ball. So how will second year receivers like Andre Caldwell, Jerome Simpson, and Mo Purify do? Can they be the future ? We also know that Cedric Bensonis our number one back, tbt the number two is still up in the air so can new comer Brian Lenard capture itor will the rookie speedster out of Abaline-Christian steal the show. The winning championship side of the ballis the defence, can you say " Thank you Pete Carol." AKA Rey Maualuga and Keith River. we all know that Rey is the future leader of the D, it will be interesting to see how he will run the middle of the field. We will see tonight so for all you Bengal Haters "Child Please!"

Michael Vick is now a Philadelphia Eagle

Last night it was announced that former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, Michael Vick, has found a new home: the Philadelphia Eagles. Michael Vick has signed an one year deal worth $1.6 million with the option of a second year worth $5.2 million. As we all know, Vick was found guilty of running a huge dog fighting ring and did about 2 years of federal jail time. Vick was known more for his ability to rush than his ability to throw. However, during the 2006 season (last season before Vick was arrested), he proved he can also throw the ball making him a very dangerous threat. Defenses had a hard time planning how to contain the two-headed monster. If the defense played the pass, Vick would just rush down the field and if the defense played the run, Vick would fake the rush and pass down the field. Vick was on top of the world before it all came crashing down on him. During the offseason in 2007, Vick's name was getting thrown around in the middle of a huge dog fighting ring. Vick was later found guilty and sentenced. The NFL suspended him indefinitely and the Atlanta Falcons released him. Vick also lost all of his endorsements he had.

After serving almost two years in federal prison, the big question on Vick's release was first: Would Goodell reinstate him into the NFL? And second: Who would have the guts to sign him? Vick's last NFL game was in 2006. He has been out of the game for two full seasons. Will he be in good enough shape? Does he still have the speed and agility? Can he still throw? Will he play quarterback? These are all questions asked by NFL owners, coaches, players, analysts and fans alike. Two years is an eternity for an athlete - physically and mentally. Also, the other big risk owners took on going after Vick would not be on the field but from the bad press from animal rights activists and PETA. It shall be interesting to see how Vick does in Philadelphia (if he makes the team) and the press surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles. Donovan McNabb WILL be the quarterback this season but it will be interesting to see how the Eagles use Vick. Will he be used as a backup? Wide receiver? Or Wildcat type formations? We shall see. What do you think? Please let me know what you think by putting a comment. Peace!

Who's House My House!

Dude means business! There is no doubt in any ones minds that Josh McDaniels has rattled the roster cage of the second best offense in the NFL from just a year ago. First by trading Pro Bowl Quarterback Jay Cutler to Chicago Bears, for Kyle Orton. McDaniels is determined to show the league that it is his way or the highway.But maybe the coach is the real deal, he i the former New England Patriots Offensive Coordinator, and Broncos owners did feel comfortable with caning !4 year vet Mike Shanahan. Was it a smart choice only time and the record will tell. One thing is clear the Broncos have a lot of questions to answer. probably the biggest is, is Kyle Orton the answer at quarterback? Well we know Orton is never going to wow anyone in a good way at least, so if you know your not getting the wow factor or that raw talent and upside, what do you look for if your Mcdaniels? You look for a great game manager and if Orton can get this offense down he may become that. Not having talent around him wont be an excuse this time. He has Brandon Marshall one of the best up and coming receivers in the league. Eddie Royal the kid caught 91 passes last season, and with drafting Georgia Running back Knowshawn Moreno, Orton has weapons. Another struggle the Broncos will have to address is can the defense turn it around from a year ago? As we know defences win championships and Mike Nolan knows this, so i believe he will get his 3-4 defence in shape. They have a great back eight. Broncos let go of unproductive Dre Bly and sign former Miami CB Andre Goodman and if he can stay healthy him and Po Bowler Champ Bailey make a nice solid tandem. LB Andre Davis is looking great, he is not only football smart but very athletic. They just have to get there front three there big and stout just unproven, but a bright spot is there first round pick DE, Robert Ayers the kids got a fantastic engine and shows flashes of brilliance and great explosion off the line.

G.O.A.T.

Of course I'm talking about Eldrick "Tiger" Woods! The PGA Championship begins today, Mr. Woods has now won two weeks in a row, and not to mention every week before a Major this year. The cat is money, since 2006 Woods has had a better wining percentage than ten MLB teams.What are those teams you ask? Well here we go, Marlins, Padres, Mariners, Rays, Nationals, Orioles, Royals, Giants, Pirates, d unfortunately our hometown Cincinnati Reds - all lower then T Dub's 48 wining percentage.
But can he save the best for last, can he get it in, snatch the last major of the 2009 year. Out of his own mouth " If I do not win a major this year it is not a successful year." But is this year not successful? Tiger has won five times already on the tour this year, this coming off reconstructive knee surgery, and devoting more quality time at home with his two children and wife. You tell me is the G.O.A.T. Tittle fitting for this man/robot. Check this out he has less practice then from previous years because of the growing family, the complication of learning to play with the new knee. On top of the previously stated five victories he is facing the odds of winning two of three more events this year
So now to the wrap up lets just say he wins this Major and three more times this year your looking at an eight event win season and a major in one year most guys don't even got that on there career resume can you say wow. There is your fresh read for today, check it out let me know what you think about the G.O.A.T!

Kobe vs. Lebron

Ever since Michael Jordan retired, sports journalists, reporters and fans tried finding who would be the next Mike. My personal opinion is there will NEVER be another Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan changed the game of basketball and made the NBA internationally known. Today, the debate is between Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. Both players are dominant in the league today and are well-rounded hoopsters. No matter where you are, work or park or school or even on TV you hear the great debate of who is better: Lebron or Kobe. Both started their NBA careers straight out of high school. That alone is an amazing feat to overcome. You have boys playing with men. However, Lebron and Kobe seemed to be up for the challenge. They were not superstars when they first entered the league either. Now, they are both dominant leaders for their teams (who were first and second in overall records this season; Cavs and Lakers). Lebron James took his Cavs to the finals once and Kobe Bryant and his Lakers went to the finals 6 times, winning 4 of them. Now the debate:

I think Kobe Bryant is a better basketball player, however Lebron James is a better athlete. Kobe just has that raw talent mixed with beautiful fundamentals that make him such a lethal weapon on the court. His hunt for blood and squashing his opponent is what pushes him to reach excellence. I think Lebron is still learning how to play with that killer instinct. Last season was to me the best season of his career. He is smelling that blood. But I think Kobe's instinct to win no matter what cost with his fundamentally sound talent mixed with his uncanny ability to play all aspects of the game is what makes him the greatest player in the world.

If you don't believe me, look at these numbers:

Kobe: 4 titles, 1 finals mvp, 1 mvp and 81 points in one game

Lebron: 0 titels, 0 finals mvp, 1 mvp and 56 points in one game

So I gave you a tidbit about how I feel. Now its your turn to leave some comments and get the argument going!

NFL Films Presents

Ladies and Gentlemen, the time has finally arrived. The six month count down is finally over! Of course I'm talking about the NFL season, it's back and more importantly for us local guys it means welcome back to the jungle (that's Bengals nation for you foreigners). So lets get started I am excited this opportunity for the Bengals because it will give them the chance to rid the coalition that they have a bunch of knuckle heads on there team. people must understand that you can't make the argument or criticism that this isn't the same offensive and defensive team from 2007 but still i the same clown filled team from 2007. You cant demean one and not the other, it's about being fair. And if not a full showing that the clowns are gone from this team. At least it's a step forward, a move in the right direction per say.
I only see positives with this relationship between HBO and the Bengals. Everyone knows how great of a draft we had this year. So again its a chance for the nation to see the tremendous talent the Bengals picked up in April. From the versatile, very talented and not to mention hit you in the mouth Rey Maualuga, or the freak of nature Micheal Johnson. Fans will also see the improvement of second year players such as Andre Caldwell, Kieth Rivers, and Jerome Simpson. I mean what is not to like , you also have tough positional battles at Safety with Chinedum Ndukwe Roy Williams, in the mix Defensive Tackle Tank Johnson and Domata Peko, that's sports reality at it's best! People also have top realize that these cameras aren't going to be distraction these players are gamers. No one wants to be the guy that drops a pass or misses a block on national television while the HBO cameras are rolling.
OK ! OK! you critics out there this one is for you i will be fair, here it is the only bad thing the Bengals get out of this is the fact that, they have no return man an inevitably i feel that they will struggle with field position.
So there you go there is my take on NFL Films Presents: Hard Knock Featuring the Cincinnati Bengals. Hope everyone enjoyed the fresh read post a comment and let me know!

Breakout Player 2009

My breakout player in the NFL for 2009 is Chris Henry. I know it may be hard to beleive but just hear me out. First everyone has to let the legal troubles and suspensions stay in the past where they belong. If you must dwell on the past use it as a positive. Let me explain...his suspensions have given him time to mature but have also saved his body by not getting beat up by the hard NFL hits. Next he is not only a changed man but he is a very talanted receiver. As quoted by Carson Palmer he is "Randy Moss Jr." Palmer dosen't just praise him verbally tho, he's also been targeting him in training camp. When you have one of the best qb's in the leauge targeting you it's a positive thing. Besides his pure natural ability, he's been working on running tighter routes, learning from vets like the Ocho and Vern Coles. He's in his infancy now but by the end of the season you will no longer look at him or the Bengals as joke of the leauge.

NFL 2009 Most Dedicated Fans!

Ok sports fans, in the spirit of the 2009 NFL Season starting next month and trying to get people to read the Sports Talk blog, I want people to post comments on here supporting there team and tell me why your NFL team is the best!!!! So start!

Not much to say today.....

So I am going to just let everyone know 29 MORE DAYS til the NFL season kicks off!!!! Also, Hard Knocks featuring the Cincinnati Bengals, airs tonight on HBO.

Who Dey!

NFL Rookies Signing Bonuses

I need to vent a little bit about the NFL today. I am so sick and tired of hearing of rookies holding out for more money. Who do they think they are?! Seriously? You may have been a great college player, and you may end up being a great professional player, but I think you have to earn it. I am sick of these kids getting drafted by a team and then holding out. The team should say this is what we are offering you, take it or leave it. There are millions of kids (and grown men, including myself) who would absolutely love and give anything to play professional sports. They are grown men getting paid millions of dollars to play a child's game. I personally would not mind playing for the minimum salary and even not as a starter. I just want to be a part of a PROFESSIONAL team that everyone knows and loves (or hates).

Michael Crabtree is just the latest example of an athlete full of themselves and think they deserve more. In my opinion he should get league minimum for the first year and if you prove yourself we will talk. And that is not just Crabtree. I think that should be the case for ALL rookies in ALL sports. You may be the best in college but now you are playing with the best in the world. Prove yourself and you get the big time check. Watching Crabtree's holdout is making me sick. The NFL, and the 49ers, are bigger than you! They can operate and move on without you! So stop acting like you are God's gift to the sport and take what is given to you. You are a very lucky individual and have an opportunity of a lifetime that ANYONE would love to have.

That is my rant for today. Keep checking for more stories and PLEASE give me some feedback. Thanks!

Are the Yankees playing the best baseball?

The Yankees just completed a sweep of their hated rival the Red Sox last night with an amazing showing of offensive power in the 8th inning. The Red Sox took the lead in the 8th inning with a 2-run homerun to put them up 2 to 1. Then in the bottom of the 8th, with 2 outs, Damon connects with a one run homerun to tie the game up. The next batter, Taxeira, hits an one run homerun to take the lead 3 to 2. The Yankees score two more runs that inning and wrapped up the game with a 5 to 2 win. The Yankees outscored the Red Sox 25-6 in this last series. Where did the Red Sox offense go? Are the Red Sox in a hitting slump? Or are the Yankees just that strong? Are the Yankees playing strong enough to win the World Series?

My opinion is the Yankees are the BEST team in baseball right now. And that is NOT because they are my favorite team. I just feel like the Yankees are hitting when it counts and their pitching is finally coming around. C.C. had his best game of the season against the Red Sox a few days ago. Is this a flashback of the 2000 Yankees? I say yes. All they need to do is stay healthy.

I know there are a lot of mislead fans out there, aka Red Sox fans, but face reality, the Yankees are playing at the top of their game right now and they are a scary team to face. They have the whole package with the defense, hitting and pitching. Will we, meaning Yankees fans, be no longer saying 26 to all of you Red Sox fans and will be saying 27 instead? I think it is a strong possibility......

Cincinnati Bengals 2009 Schedule

Week Date Opponent Time (ET)
1 Sun Sep 13 DENVER BRONCOS 1:00 PM
2 Sun Sep 20 at Green Bay Packers 1:00 PM
3 Sun Sep 27 PITTSBURGH STEELERS 1:00 PM
4 Sun Oct 4 at Cleveland Browns 1:00 PM
5 Sun Oct 11 at Baltimore Ravens 1:00 PM
6 Sun Oct 18 HOUSTON TEXANS 1:00 PM
7 Sun Oct 25 CHICAGO BEARS 1:00 PM
8 BYE
9 Sun Nov 8 BALTIMORE RAVENS 1:00 PM
10 Sun Nov 15 at Pittsburgh Steelers 1:00 PM
11 Sun Nov 22 at Oakland Raiders 4:15 PM
12 Sun Nov 29 CLEVELAND BROWNS 1:00 PM
13 Sun Dec 6 DETROIT LIONS 1:00 PM
14 Sun Dec 13 at Minnesota Vikings 1:00 PM
15 Sun Dec 20 at San Diego Chargers 4:05 PM
16 Sun Dec 27 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS 1:00 PM
17 Sun Jan 3 at New York Jets 1:00 PM

My First Blog!

Hello Sports Fans!!!

I've decided to give this blogging thing a shot. I am a HUGE sports fan who just loves to talk, watch and follow sports. With that being said, I am not claiming to be an expert or a know-it-all. I just love talking about it and giving my opinion (or vent) about sports. So, I am a huge football and basketball fan and I am getting back into baseball. The whole steroids thing ruined baseball for me for a long time. However, now I realize that is part of the game of baseball like bats and gloves. My favorite teams are: Cincinnati Bengals, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bearcats and North Carolina Tar Heels. Even though I don't need to explain to any of you fools why I like these teams I am going to anyways before I hear it from everyone. I am a big fan of the Cincinnati teams because I was born and raised in Cincinnati. However, I also fell in love with the Lakers, Yankees and Tar Heels as a young kid. Magic Johnson was one of the first basketball players I watched play. I liked him better than Larry Bird and therefore fell in love with the Lakers. I am a Yankees fan mostly because my grandfather was asked to play for the Yankees in the 1940's (did not get to play due to the fact he was drafted to fight in WWII) and because I love the history of New York. So anyways, I plan on putting posts on here when I get a chance. I work as a software support specialist so I have plenty of time on the computer. I just need to talk sports with people and vent or startup good discussions of who is better..... Enjoy!