A Sports Scene Quickie

Let's hammer out three series of thoughts on the world of sports. The topics: Carolina Basketball, ACC Hoops &, the Super Bowl.

1. Carolina Basketball: The Heels came off an exciting but ugly victory vs FSU on Wednesday night to play at rival NC State on Saturday. Each season, I take a look at the schedule and try to identify games that the Heels will struggle with that one might not expect. The FSU/State back-to-back jumped out at me for a couple of reasons. Carolina typically seems to struggle after a break (the Heels had last weekend off) and any time you play a "rival" who gets up to play you more than you get up to play them, there can be problems. Without question, the Florida State game was awful from a Tar Heel perspective, minus the ridiculous conclusion. Somehow, instead of coming out completely flat, the Heels survived a sloppy first seven minutes to dominate the first half and go into halftime with a comfortable lead. But, instead of pulling away, Carolina struggled to be strong with the basketball and had no answer for the screen and roll, allowing the 'Noles to take a three point lead with two minutes remaining. From there, however, the Heels showed what it takes to be a great team - buckle down and find a way to win on a night that you can do nothing right. Missed dunks, terrible team defense, an off-night from your All-American...most teams do not survive such issues. But Carolina got a steal and-one from Danny Green, played unreal defense on consecutive possessions against Toney Douglas and got the ball back with 3.2 incorrect seconds remaining (how in the world did the officials blow this? Should have been 4.3 seconds. I watched it five times on my DVR to make certain on Friday night during my Tar Heel Rewind segment of the week). Ty Lawson's buzzer-beater was superb, as the Seminoles tried really hard not to foul. As a collegue of mine mentioned, "Florida State had this game wrapped up until Leonard (Hamilton) started to coach." Just piss-poor late-game execution by FSU, and a team that knows how to win doing just that. For the record, I watched this game in near-complete silence in my hotel room in Winston-Salem, NC, at an ISP Sales Academy in which nearly everyone else was pulling for Florida State (they are an ISP school, and a great one at that). And I never thought the Heels would lose. I promise. Somehow, I managed to not be kicked out of the hotel after the last shot, as I am pretty sure that everyone watching at the hotel bar still heard me screaming and whopping from the eighth floor of the Marriott.

Saturday, the game at NC State was emotional only twice - pre-game during ceremonies for the late Kay Yow, and at the end of the game as Mike Copeland tried to assault Ben McCauley after first being legally assaulted during a "hard foul". My rule for the Heels is now official: if Ty Lawson is head-and-shoulders above the opposing point guard, Carolina wins. Hands down. When everyone was panicking following the earlier back-to-back losses and fretting about the trip to UVA, I was not worried in the least. The reason? I had just seen UVA in person here in Blacksburg and can tell you that Lawson is much, much better than either of the 'Hoos lead guards. Same goes for today, as Degand and Mays were no match for #5. Of course, it did not help that the NC State bigs played matador style defense, ole-ing nearly every time a Carolina player got near the rim (mostly Hansbrough, but happened to the benefit of others as well).

So where does that leave the Boys in Blue? In a better place than they were three weeks ago, that much is fo' sho. Unfortunately, I do not think the ailments have been magically healed. The issues are consistent: lack of a perimeter defender (Dear Marcus, Get Well Soon. Love, Kyle), the inability (still) to be able to defend the screen and roll for crap, the tendency to get caught up in one-on-one battles instead of working the ball for a good shot, and little bench production whatsoever. I just imagine how much better the team could be having Ginyard at 100% (not including if Zeller were healthy). Three of those four issues would be solved in all likelihood, plus his leadership might help the one-on-one problems. I personally believe he will come back in a couple weeks and try his best to contribute for the late-season, March Madness run. Between really wanting to finish up with his classmates and the desire to win a national title, I predict a return. Unfortunately, if he's not 100%, it just won't matter.

By the way, I think we all entered this season assuming Lawson and Ellington would leave with the seniors. I'm not sure that will happen now. Ty might go anyway, but Ellington might end up having to stay. If both came back and Ginyard had to redshirt, only Green and Hansbrough would be lost from the starting lineup. Therefore, next year's team could potentially start Lawson, Ellington, Ginyard, Davis/John Henson and Thompson, with a bench of Zeller, Travis Wear, David Wear, Davis/Henson, William Graves, Larry Drew II, Leslie McDonald, and Dexter Strickland. You tellin' me that team ain't a Final Four favorite? Wow. I think I just shat myself.


2. ACC Hoops: The big story in the league right now is the top four. Clemson and Wake Forest have clearly separated themselves from the remainder of the league, along with the Dookies and Heels, and are national contenders. Of course, most folks are skeptical of Clemson, and rightfully so. Three consecutive years of hot starts and subpar finishes will do that to you. I do think they are legitimately good this year, and hungry to prove people wrong. I could see another 5-seed for the IPTAY backers. Wake Forest is really, really good. Unfortunately, I think we have seen their flaws the last couple of weeks. There are times the Deacs just do not defend the ball well, they have trouble executing on offense late in games (hint: get Teaguethat ball by letting him run the point and put Ish Smith on the pine), and they have some complete mental breakdowns by key guys (McFarland and Johnson, The Blue Team is looking at you). They might have enough talent to override these issues, but I think the problems will continue to rear an ugly head against some inferior opponents and again in the NCAA Tournament.

In the middle of the league, it seems that four teams are battling for a couple tournament bids: Virginia Tech, Boston College, Florida State, & Miami. They all have ugly losses, but also have some quality wins. Personally, I think a couple teams do just enough to sneak into the NCAA Tournament, but I would not put money on who it will be. By the way, for people who want to argue that the ACC is better than the Big East, I implore you: shut up. The top four ACC teams are Clemson, Duke, North Carolina, and Wake Forest. The Big East top four are probably Pittsburgh, UCONN, Louisville, and Marquette. The next four ACC teams? FSU, Miami, VT, and BC. The Big East? Georgetown, Syracuse, Notre Dame, and WVU. Do you really think VT can play with Georgetown? BC with Syracuse? FSU with any of those four teams? This is where the Big East is unquestionably better. As for the top four teams, we'll decide that in March.

One other quick note - Chas McFarland, the 7-footer for Wake Forest, is quickly earning a reputation in the league for being a complete and total douchebag. He whines, flails, flops, elbows, and bitches his way through every game, drawing the ire of fans and opposing players alike. This is not new - it's been going on for a couple of years now. But now that Wake Forest is actually good, people are taking notice. Chris Chase, a Wake Forest alum over at Player Hater's Ball has pointed this out already, so I'm just echoing the fact: McFarland is due to really hurt his team with his antics before this season is over. If nothing else, he's at least going to really piss people off and be remembered for being a jerkoff instead of a solid player.

3. Super Bowl XLIII: Steelers vs Cardinals. Thus far in the playoffs, my picks are at 7-3 (Colts, Panthers, and Titans were the losses, Scout's Honor). Not a bad year for sure. I have to say, I've picked some Super Bowl underdogs in the past. My backing of the Chargers prior to the beatdown of the century that allowed Steve Young to get the monkey off his back went down in infamy. On the flip side, my belief of the Pats against the Rams (and at the beginning of those playoffs mind you) are that of legend. But this ain't a year for the Dog...

I am going with the Steelers for a few reasons. First, I do not think Arizona can run on the Pittsburgh defense, period. The Cards were at least able to move the pigskin two or three yards in their three previous playoff games, but the Steelers will have none of it. Second, I think Big Ben will be able to hit the deep ball against an Arizona defense that likes to take some chances. Two or three big plays will be enough to give Pittsburgh good field position or to score. Third, Kurt Warner is due to struggle a bit. He's had some complete stink bombs this season to go with his great games, and I think Dick LeBeau can scheme Warner into struggling on Sunday. Last, the Steelers will not panic in this contest. A close game for a half, then Pittsburgh pulling away a little bit, and a key turnover will be enough. Of course, it does not hurt that I picked the Steelers before the season started...

The pick: Pittsburgh 30 Arizona 17

Harold & Kumar Got it Wrong

So I'm driving around this past Wednesday morning in Salem, VA, a small town just off the interstate here in the New River Valley. I was not in a hurry, but did not really have time to backtrack a bit and make the customary stop at Bojangles (which btw, the Bojangles at Exit 137 off I-81 in Salem is one of the three best I've ever been to, no question) for a cajun filet biscuit combo. I was quite hungry, but had resigned myself to by-passing the McDonald's, Hardee's, and other horrendous fast food establishments, instead electing to pray my stomach did not growl too loud in my next meeting. Then, it happened.

I pulled up to a stoplight on Melrose Ave and saw a sign in the distance. "That can't be what it looks like, they don't have those here," I thought to myself (ok fine, I said it aloud in the car). The light turned green and I accelerated, cutting over to the left-hand lane just in case...drove a bit faster...and let out a yelp. That familiar green logo and the big "K K" jumped out to me. A Krispy Kreme? In Salem, VA? "Dear Lord, please don't let it be closed," I prayed. Not only was it indeed open, but there were people sitting inside eating doughnuts. No drive-thru, just an old, down-home doughnut shop with senior citizens and hillbillies hanging out. I parked quickly and opened my wallet to find only $1. Rummaging through the change in my car, I found enough to grant me two delicious premiums and one hot glazed ooey-gooey, sinful delight of dough.

Of course, as I went inside, the regulars all looked at me with bewilderment. It's probably not every day that a 26 year-old dude comes in their spot with a dress shirt and tie on, much less with as much confidence and purpose as I had. My mission: one glazed, one chocolate iced, & one raspberry-filled. $3.05 later, mission accomplished.

I returned to my car, dug up a bottle of water, and proceeded to sit in 21 degrees fahrenheit of Heaven. First, the hot glazed doughnut. Then, the chocolate. And finally, the raspberry. 750 of the most tasty calories known to man were digested in about four minutes, thirty-two seconds. And then, off to my meeting. A detour much needed, money well spent, and a mission accomplished. And that, oh Blue Teamers of the world, is why Harold & Kumar missed it. They should not have wasted their time at White Castle, oh no. Instead, they should have been chugging along down south to find the greatest delicacy of all-time: Hot-n-Now.

They Aren't Who We Thought They Were

Undefeated. The best team in history. Most-talented team in the country. National Title or bust. Each of these phrases had been used to describe the 2008-2009 North Carolina Men's Basketball Team in 2008. Now it's 2009. And the words now include soft, unmotivated, panicked, human. So what gives? How has the best Carolina team ever assembled turned into a rattled, poor-shooting, no-defense, mentally weak squad? And how can this team re-focus and improve moving forward? Finally, can they/will they end up in the position to hoist a big banner and cry while confetti rains down in Detroit at the Final Four?

What's Wrong

1) Defense. It starts here and ends here, both individually and as a team. Lawson has done a poor job of pressuring the ball and staying in front of his man in these two losses to Boston College and Wake Forest. Coach K, for all the hate Carolina fans have for him, is an outstanding basketball coach, especially in the art of pressure on the ball. He demands his point guards pressure their opponent. Subsequently, he demands that the wing players deny their man getting the ball (which in turn adds further pressure on the point guard to make a precise pass). Roy Williams is not much different. His defensive principle implores the 1, 2, and 3 spots to play the passing lanes and take chances to cause turnovers. This has just not happened in the two losses. Why does Coach Williams want to cause turnovers? Because they lead to easy points on the break, duh. And obviously when this team is not getting points on the break, they are resigned to a half-court set. And in the half-court set they...

2) Take Bad Shots. Dear Carolina Guards: I'd like to introduce you to Tyler Hansbrough. He's a big white guy, wears number 50. You can usually find him standing with his back to the basket, arms raised, looking for a post-entry pass. He makes a lot of shots and, when he misses, often tracks down the rebound and scores anyway. He's also become pretty good at driving from the perimeter on a big man and scoring or getting fouled. I would suggest he touches the basketball more often, ok? Thanks. Love, Kyle.

3) Coaching. Roy. Roy, Roy, Roy. How I love thee, but...wow. Let's take the Wake Forest game for a second. (To be fair, Coach Williams could have very well told his players many of the points I am about to bring up. However, it sure was not executed if that was the case). Immediately, in the opening offensive position, I noticed that Wake Forest's big men were hedging on the Carolina screens really hard (also called a "show", it is when the post player steps out in front of the guard trying to dribble around the screen and prevents him from driving or shooting until his teammate can recover to get back in front of the ball). When this happens, it leaves the player setting the screen open to cut to the basket. Often times, a team will combat this by having the screen setter "slip" the screen and cut straight to the hoop without really ever setting a pick (for detail on how to do this perfectly, cue up the DVR and watch what Kansas' bigs did to us in the Final Four last year...if you can stomach watching it that is). Did we do this one time the entire game Sunday night? Nope. At least not successfully. The big was not rolling off the screen and the guard never looked inside for him anyway. Now, I know the pick-and-roll is not a huge part of the offense; however, when it is there for the taking, I'd suggest doing just that. This is just one example of many instance Sunday night that I found myself very frustrated with the strategy from our bench (putting Thompson in with two fouls when they could have gone small with Green at the 4 and watching Deon pick up foul number 3 less than a minute later was another). Overall, I do not think our beloved Heels have played well recently; likewise, I do not think our beloved coach has coached well either.

4) Marcus Ginyard. It seemed to take until now, when the team actually started to struggle and lose games, for people (and by people, I mean the media) to figure out that the Heels really, really, really miss Ginyard. He is the unquestioned leader of the team. He does all of the little things that just are not getting done. He is the only lock-down defender on the team. He is the go-to guy for post-game quotes, thoughts, & analysis. He does not panic and does not let others either. This year, in games that Carolina won, Ramon Harris of Kentucky, Kyle McAlarney of Notre Dame, and Raymar Morgan of Michigan St all had some (or in McAlarney's case, a lot) of success hitting shots. Each of those wing players would likely have been defended by Ginyard at some point, and probably to a much more successful degree from the Tar Heel perspective. Now that the team is losing, the media suddenly has figure out the Boys in Blue miss not only Ginyard's defense, but also all of the other qualities mentioned above. Um, ya think?

How To Fix It

1) I have no idea. They do not pay me to coach.

2) But if they did, I'd start with reaffirming the point of college basketball - having fun. This team does not seem to be doing that right now, as Adam Lucas insinuated in his column on Monday (linked above under "panicked"). The expectations, pressure, and spotlight seem to have gotten to this bunch (again, if Ginyard were involved, I do not see this being as big of an issue). They simply are not having fun and relaxing out there. You can see when they shoot how skittish they are. When Florida's big guns decided to return after winning the title in 2006, they did so because they loved being around each other and having fun together. This team has four guys who were in a similar situation, minus the title to defend, but chose to return. The difference, I acknowledge, is none of them were going in the NBA Draft Lottery. Regardless, the goal was and is to win it and, I hope, to have fun along the way doing it. Right now, they have indeed forgotten to enjoy the ride.

3) Reaffirm the goals of this team: win the ACC Regular Season, win the ACC Tournament, win the National Championship. All of those goals are still quite possible (though two more conference losses will kiss the regular season league title goodbye). Mid-January losses show you what you're good at, what you're not so good at, and what you completely suck at. So get better at them.

4) From an X's and O's perspective, the defense is what absolutely must get better. And it can be good enough, as seen versus Oregon and at Michigan State. We already covered, for the most part, what is wrong defensively. So, fix it. And it starts inside most of the players. As individuals, Lawson has been completely outplayed twice in a week. He needs to take this personally and re-focus himself. He does not get another shot at BC or Wake Forest this season, so learn from it and be ready to dominate the other nine guards he's due to face, on both ends of the court. Ellington must drive more offensively like he did early in the season and at least attempt to play defense. Green has to pull more rebounds. Thompson has to quit playing like a *insert p-word here* (a tentative Thompson ends up in foul trouble by the way). Hansbrough must demand the ball and go all Tim Tebow on them (Interestingly enough, I think the similarities between the two of them are incredible, as also mentioned by an anonymous reader in the "Comments" section last week. Ugly but effective game, loyal to their schools, passing up pro prospects, could get any chick on campus if they were like that...). Ginyard must get healthy. The bench guys must do what they're good at and minimize mistakes otherwise (more minutes for Ed Davis, please). And as a team, they must want it.

5. Somebody has to refuse to lose. Every great college team seems to have this kind of guy. The dude who just wills his team to victory. It's not always the best player, but it usually is the one player the team absolutely would not have won without. Tim Tebow. Mario Chalmers. George Lynch. Raymond Felton. They all had an insatiable appetite for winning a championship and pushed their teammates to the necessary heights to do so. Tyler? Ty? Marcus? I honestly believe that this might be the most important factor for this team's ability to not only rebound from recent adversity, but to improve and eventually secure a national title.

What Lies Ahead

In the short-term, victories. Wins must be ahead in the coming weeks, or this season could blow up really fast. The tougher opponents are at home until the Heels travel to Duke on February 11th. Clemson comes to Chapel Hill (no game at Littlejohn), Miami and Maryland as well (return trips follow the Duke game). Everyone will continue to play with tremendous intensity against this team, as the interlocking NC still doubles as a bull's-eye. Therefore, each game must be approached with increased focus and attentiveness.

In the long-term, practice. This squad must commit to the practice floor and getting better. The communication, the execution, the desire must start in practice and translate to the games.

The outlook has changed only slightly from the beginning of the season. Gone is the superfluous praise that was heaped on this team once upon a time, replaced by the doubt of the "loyal" fans, as well as the media. People have rightfully questioned their toughness, togetherness, and desire. So, put up or shut up. Either this team locks in internally and rallies around one another or things completely fall apart and we're left with the distinct flavor of the 1994 disaster. Other Carolina teams have faced adversity and rallied for great seasons: 1987, 1990, 1997, 2000. But, none have rallied for championship seasons - yet. It can be done. And it won't happen overnight. But, time plus effort times fun might yet still equal a championship.

Every ride is bumpy, so enjoy the sights and sounds along the way and hope for a destination of greatness. Don't even worry, we gonna make it.

Even PETA Would Shoot Those Panthers

An NFL season that heard the Carolina Panthers growl ferociously all year long ended with a hardly a meow Saturday night. Those vicious, punishing, so-talented-it's-sick Arizona Cardinals (sarcasm?) came into Charlotte and intercepted the Panthers on their way to hosting the NFC Championship (get it? Intercepted. See how I did that?). In the most recent entry here on The Blue Team, I mentioned the Cardinals not being a great matchup for the Panthers because of a weakness in the secondary, but thought the Carolina defense would be motivated and the home team would prevail if they took care of the ball and were not overhyped. Instead, all of those contingencies were violated.

The seconday was horrendous, the defensive front produced little pressure, and the linebackers looked typically lost in coverage. More in-depth in my worry was that Arizona would move Fitzgerald around pre-snap (check), try and get him matched up on Richard Marshall (check), and cross him through the middle on our linebackers (and check). Warner had all day to throw the ball, which was a schematic error of collosal proportions. Pressuring a quarterback as prone to sacks, turnovers, and injury as Warner is might be the only way to beat him. I can assure you that letting him sit back and wait for a receiver to come open is not effective. This just goes to show you that the Panthers' coaches do not have a lot of confidence in the secondary in man-to-man coverage, or even just Cover 1. The few blitzes that were run when the game was still in doubt ended up with a toasted DB.

On the other side of the ball, the offense got away very quickly from running the football. Then again, it did not really have the football for much of the second quarter. Jake was just awful. Dreadful. Ghastly. Deplorable. Really all of these things. Delhomme is this type of quarterback: at the end of the year, his numbers look decent. Plus, you cannot measure his intangibles and leadership. Each year, he has 3-4 really good games (270, 2 TDs, clutch throws, etc); each year, he has 2-3 really bad games (170, 3 INTs, missing open guys). In those really good games, he leads the team to victory more often than not; in the really bad ones, he gives you NO CHANCE to win. Saturday night was one of those games that most decent NFL quarterbacks have once a year or so. Unfortunately, it was on the biggest stage thus far. He is known for trying to force the ball into coverage and locking onto a wide receiver (Smith) and he did both all night. Of course, the naysayers and Debbie Downers will spend the entire off-season whining about Delhomme, saying he needs to go. While I'm all for drafting and developing a quality quarterback, I am not for getting rid of Delhomme. Remember last year? David Carr and the white gloves? How bad the team was without its leader at QB? Until there is clearly a better/younger option, then keep Delhomme and learn to hand the ball off 40 times a game.

In closing, this game and season ended in incredibly disappointing fashion. Not to take away from the good things, but the lingering feeling is definitely "what might have been". This is the NFL, not college football, meaning two major differences exist: 1) a real champion is crowned; and 2) winning is the only expectation. And the Panthers did not win. Hopefully next season will begin, and end, with a roar.

NFL Stands for "No Freakin' Logic"

Back in September, I wrote a Nostradamus-esque piece about the upcoming NFL season. 23 (hey, that's Michael Jordan's number!) thoughts/predictions on the season to be, with commentary and analysis. Before we delve into looking at this weekend's playoff slate, let's take a moment to make fun of what I made fun of a few months back:

1) No one will go undefeated. Survey Says: Correct. Tennessee lasted the longest before falling to Brett Favre. Not the Jets. Just Brett Favre.

2) No one will go 0-fer. Survey Says: Incorrect. The Detroit Lions will now live in infamy. A brief aside on this - the Lions will be good in one of the next two season. Whoever survives and sticks around on this Lions team will be incredibly motivated to make people forget this season and it will be the "Story of the Year" whenever this happens. And Calvin Johnson will be the best wideout in the league when he gets a consistent quarterback.

3 & 4) Chad Ocho Cinco is sucko and Marvin Lewis needs to go crazy. Survey Says: Correct and N/A. Lewis was headed for the unemployment line until a late-season winning streak, but never went off. And Chad is MIA following a season of non-productivity.

5) The Colts will have to play out the entire season to make the playoffs. Survey Says: 97% correct. 3-4 record turned into 12-4 following the nine-game win streak. Played full-tilt until the final week.

6) Colts is a wimpy nickname. Survey Says: Duh. Still wimpy. My adorable 3 year-old neighbor, Emma, is not even scared of Colts and she wouldn't trick-or-treat this year.

7) 49ers will be good. Survey Says: Correct. Sort of. I really think they would have won the division if Singletary had been their coach all year. San Fran was the best team in the NFC West, but could not get out of the gate and dug themselves too big of a hole.

8) DeKyle. Survey Says: DeKyle is a great choice for my son's name and you cannot convince me otherwise.

9) Dallas is going to be really good or really implode. Survey Says: Incorrect, because my follow-up sentence was "I vote for the former". But boy did they ever implode. I watched the entire 44-6 loss at Philly with the sound on in order to soak up the moment. Boy do I ever hate Dallas.

10 & 11) San Diego (in German...) will sleepwalk through the year and still be 12-4. Survey Says: 1/2 credit - they did sleepwalk through most of the year, but only ended up 8-8...and in the second round of the playoffs. Makes no sense.
12) The local Redskins' fans will be disappointed. Survey Says: Right on! After starting 6-2 and yelling "hip hip hooray" in the locker room, the Skins fell apart and missed the playoffs. And I loved it.

13) Brett Favre will be overexposed. Survey Says: so will TO. Correct.

14 & 15) Carolina will be 10-6...or 6-10. Survey Says: Correct. The secondary was good enough to survive, the pass rush was better, Delhomme played fine, and the 2-RB system was outstanding.

16) AFC Playoff Teams - Survey Says: 2/3. I was correct on 4 out of 6, missing New England & Jacksonville. New England was clearly good enough to make it, but Jacksonville...wow.

17) NFC Playoff Teams - Survey Says: 1/3. I got the Panthers & Eagles. Missed the Cowboys, Packers, 49ers, and Saints. Yikes.

18) Carolina is 10-6 and Jon Beason is a Beast. Survey Says: Correct, except it was 12-4.

19) I will win at least one fantasy league this year. Survey Says: Correct. The Hokie Thugs put on a rally for the ages in the Phi Alpha League, sneaking into the playoffs and pulling off an upset in the finals. My MVP? Baltimore's Defense and...Tyler Thigpen. Anytime you win a championship behind a Coastal Carolina Chanticleer, it calls for a celebration.

20) Praying for Miss Angela. Survey Says: always, no matter what.

21) Tar Heels Football will be pretty good. Survey Says: Correct.

22) So will Virginia Tech football. Survey Says: the sky is blue.

23) Pittsburgh over Dallas in the Super Bowl. Survey Says:...


Four good NFL Playoff matchups this weekend. A quick breakdown of what is to come:

• San Diego at Pittsburgh: I still like the Steelers, mainly for being at home. The week off helped their health and I like Big Ben to bounce back with a good next three games or so. Plus, in my unpublished picks last week, San Diego was my only miss (I had Indy), so I'm still a little peeved with the Bolts. And oh, I did pick Pittsburgh to win the Super Bowl at the beginning of the season, as seen above, and I'm too stubborn to change my mind now. That O-line worries me, but that defense does not. Whoa.
• Baltimore at Tennessee: I'll take the home squad here. I really enjoyed watching this Baltimore team all season, especially Ed Reed & Co on the defensive side of the ball. However, I think Tennessee can force Joe Flacco to beat them and I'm not sure he's up to the challenge quite yet. Plus, the Ravens' corners can be beaten (Reed has covered this weakness for them all season). In a game that Baltimore will surely blitz often (both run and pass blitzes), that means a lot of man coverage for the DBs. I see Kerry Collins exploiting that matchup just enough to get a victory for the Titans.
• Philadelphia at New York Giants: The only upset I am picking - Eagles win. Philly is the worst possible matchup for the Giants. Without Plaxico Buress, the Giants have no wide receiver who requires a safety over the top, freeing up the Eagles to bring heat early and often. However, the Eagles' blitz will not be hunting after Eli Manning exclusively. In their upset of the G-Men earlier this season, the Eagles did a great job run blitzing and keeping the Earth, Wind & Fire combo from running the Giants down the field. A lack of success on first and second down left many third-and-long situations, allowing Philly to bring the heat on Manning and force him into bad throws under duress. As a result, I really think the Giants success in this game depends on their ability to stay out of third-and-long offensively. On the other side of the ball, the Eagles are not going to bother trying to run the ball down New York's throat. Instead, they will use screens, swings, reverses, etc to simulate a running game and force the Giants to respect a "run game" of sorts. Westbrook is just healthy enough to make this work and destroy New York again. Finally, I see DeSean Jackson continuing to have an impact, both on returns and as a deep threat offensively. (Ok, to be honest, New York probably wins this game because everyone is sniffing Philly's jock right now, but I just cannot find a scenario that makes sense matchup-wise. Plus, I want the Panthers playing at home next weekend).
• Arizona at Carolina: I'll take the Panthers. This really is not a great matchup for Carolina, as the secondary is the worst part of their defense (ahem, Ken Lucas). However, Anquan Boldin is less than 100% and I think having already seen Arizona's passing attack race up and down the field once this year will help motivate and teach the defense. As long as the Panthers take care of the ball and do not come out overhyped, I think they will come out on top.

In other news, there is a BCS Championship Game Thursday night that has drawn some coverage on ESPN this week. Do not confuse this with a National Championship Game, as that would only happen if everyone had a chance to play for the title. The blog entry related to fixing this system is coming very soon, I promise. For now, let's pick the game. I think Florida has had enough time to prepare for the OU offensive attack and can at least slow down Sam Bradford and the Sooners enough to pull this one out. A couple of untimely turnovers by the current Heisman winner will cost the Sooners. I like the Gators 34-24.

The first hater step, the first hater gettin' tossed out

Broken Bobcats Promises

Because of circumstances totally out of my control, I have already broken my promise on 1) giving up on the Bobcats; and 2) not attending a game over the holidays here in Charlotte. My mother received two free tickets to last night's Bobcats vs Warriors game and insisted that tarheelpwin and I attend. In effort to prevent two perfectly good tickets from going to waste, Dad and I obliged. Here's how it went down:

• DJ Augustin opens up the festivities by welcoming the fans in attendance - I'm estimating 8,000 or so.
• Early action includes good passing by Boris Diaw, as pointed out to me by my father. I'm not holding my breath on this working out throughout the rest of the game. Plus, I'm stubborn, as I yelled bad words at him upon being introduced. One thing that the trade with Phoenix did bring the Bobcats is an annoying player; Raja Bell can really irritate the opposition, as Kobe Bryant has found out numerous times. In other news, former Tar Heel Brandan Wright starts tonight for Golden State and has two early fouls. Maybe if he'd stayed more than one season he would know not to foul so much. If the Bobcats are really serious about trading Felton for Wright as featured in the Charlotte Observer on Friday, I might ask David Stern to give our team to Seattle.
• During the first timeout, fans appear on the Fan Cam videoboard feature. I think it is actually the Ugly Cam tonight, as some rough looking redhead chic appears...glad to see Mint Hill is representin' this evening.
• There is a sushi stand at Time Warner Cable Arena. I love sushi, but at a basketball game? Really?
• First quarter replays are shown during another early timeout with Amy Winehouse's "Rehab" playing in the background. The way things are going, all the fans of the Bobcats are going to have to check into rehab too.
• DJ Augustin is much taller in person than I thought. Originally pegging him for 5'-10", I have to admit to being wrong. He's at least 5'-10.5". Also, Adam Morrison has checked into the game. I am looking for something to throw at him - a razor, some fake tan stuff, or basketball skill (all are needed right now).
• After now watching Morrison for five minutes, I have decided he IS The Blue Team. As an NBA player, he is essentially a scrub on this team, channeling the legend of Carolina Blue Teamers like Dewey Burke, Surry Wood, Jack Wooten, and Travis Stephenson. Rob Kurz comes in for Golden State and makes Morrison look good though, picking up 3 fouls in seven minutes. Ryan Hollins is also in for the Bobcats and whining about everything. I just love that, especially from an anorexic center.
• A lot going on in this timeout. First, I noticed that there are no ushers upstairs anymore, directing you to your seats or making sure people do not stand in the aisles. Not only have the Cats cut corporate staff, but also gameday event staff. Surely they could have let the "cheerleaders" go too (not Lady Cats - the actual cheerleaders). Also, fans are going crazy during the t-shirt toss. For what? A Time Warner Cable t-shirt of course. They should call this the "Rag to wash your car with" toss or "emergency barf clean-up towel" toss.
• In effort to pump up the crowd, the house music clip is "Ev'ry bo-dy clap your hands...clap clap clap..." from the Cha-Cha Slide. After witnessing how much people at a sporting event behave like sheep, following whatever you tell them to do (make noise, clap, get up, etc), I wish someone would take the liberty of remixing this sound byte to "ev'ry bo-dy pick your nose" and see how many people oblige.
• Two embarrassing moments committed by white folks: a 15-year old or so kid dancing during every timeout, frequently on the bigscreen, definitely with no shot at a prom date. None. And, a bald guy around 30 or so, roughly 6'-2" and 255 lbs, comes and sits down with three buddies in front of us. The embarrassment? He has on a gray suit with black windowpane that is shiny like aluminum foil. It is discussed immediately by everyone in our section. I regret that I have no picture.
• I am not wearing underwear.
• Just making sure you're still with me.
• Diaw drops off a nice pass to Gerald Wallace for a big dunk. The PA guy, Big Pat yells "Wallace for two on a pass by Boris". I'm surprised he and Boris are already on a first-name basis. It should probably be more like "...pass from Boris Diaw, you know, the sorry, lazy french dude we just got to overpay from Phoenix for our best scorer".
• Halftime brings us a 56-56 score. Wallace leads the Cats with 14 points and Jamal Crawford has 20 already for the Warriors. It also brings us the Bouncing Bulldogs jump rope squad for halftime. I hoped they were related to the British Bulldogs, but no such luck. Oh boy.
• The jump ropers are actually pretty impressive. Athletic, focused, and having fun. However, the day Lil' Kyle comes to me and says, "Dad, I need money to go to the jump rope nationals in Kissimmee, Florida", I'm going to tell him to Kissimmee ass.
• Season-ticket holder Caroline Davis is tonight's featured fan, so they interview her on the big screen. She is a brunette, enjoys long walks on the beach, and bad basketball apparently. She mentions her favorite Bobcats' moment as the opening night of the new arena. Mine is when we trade Morrison and Diaw.
• The Roman family is upgraded to the lower level, about five rows from the court. I can't believe the team was able to find five seats together anywhere in this packed house, much less so close to the action.
• End of 3rd quarter: 87-79 Golden State, Crawford has 35 already.
• Another t-shirt toss brings me to ponder one of life's great mysteries: if a t-shirt lands in an empty seat, does anyone hear it?
• With 5:47 remaining in the fourth quarter, I pass gas.
• Late fourth quarter action is close, but Crawford lands the dagger, crossing up an exhausted Raymond Felton for a nine point lead with only two minutes left. Crawford has played the point most of the night and at 6-5, he has had open looks on jumpers over Felton and Augustin all night. Even Raja Bell tried to slow him down late and failed. Crawford eventually finishes with 50 points, bringing back memories of Reggie Miller, Karl Malone, and Michael Jordan torching the Hornets in front of me as a kid. Wallace's 26 points lead the Bobcats in a 110-103 defeat.
• Overall, the experience was about what you'd expect. $9.50 cents spent (jumbo hot dog and a Coke), some good laughs, and a halfway decent game. Crawford was just unstoppable and the Warriors were able to win despite missing Corey Maggette and Stephen Jackson. On the way out, a drumline was playing in the lobby of the arena, causing noise and congestion (no, we did not stop). Apparently they are the Rhythm Cats. Awesome. On the other hand, the Lady Cats are not that impressive. Sure, there are some pretty ones, as there are on most squads. However, there are a couple I worry about being near for fear of The Clap.
• My final note on the evening: I had to stop at KFC/Taco Smell because of my hunger that lingered after not spending my life savings on concessions at the game. With only two cars at the drive-thru and the restaurant already locked, I figured this would not be too long of a trip. Think again. I reckon everyone in front of me ordered chicken that had to be fried and cooked, so I sat impatiently for ten minutes. The lesson: when in need of a chalupa, don't stop at a place that also serves extra crispy.

Go Panthers tonight. "Stand and cheer for the Panthers, stand and cheer for the team..."

You're Dead to Me, Boy

Derek Zoolander's father spoke those oh-so-painful words to his son, male model extraordinaire, after Derek tried to prove to him that he could "fit in" with his brothers. "I just want to make you proud of me, Pa," he says. But alas, despite his best efforts, it is too late for Derek, as his Dad crushes his spirits with this quote.

Fast-forward to today. There are many entities in today's world of sports who are like Derek Zoolander, doing everything they can to gain acceptance. They want approval from fans and the media alike, as approval equals interest, which equals dollars spent, which equals cash money in the pockets of these entities. Unlike Zoolander, acceptance and love are not enough; they need money, money, yeah yeah.

So what are we to do? Personally, this fan is taking the same route as Derek's Father did. Call'em out, let'em know where they stand, and take a long-term stance. If they fix it, great. Accept them back and love them. "That's my son!!" yelled Mr. Zoolander after watching his son save the Prime Minister of Malaysia. But if not? Kick dirt on them and leave them where they lie, six feet deep. So here goes. The following sports entities, be on alert - you're dead to me.

1) Here Lies the National Hockey League and Commissioner Gary Bettman. I did not grow up skating on anything frozen. Anyone who has seen me ice skate is now laughing out loud at the mental image. But roller blading? Different story. However, I did not do much of the roller parks in middle school. Nope, I preferred street hockey, scoring goals against the trash cans in my driveway. I was Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Wayne Gretzsky...anyone but Mike Modano really. Playoff hockey is my favorite - late nights, three overtimes, the back-and-forth action. I was madder than hell when Brett Hull "scored" to win the Cup for Dallas, knocking out the beloved Sabres in six games. I'm not saying I'm the world's greatest hockey fan, but I really enjoy watching the sport and would argue the intensity of the playoffs against any sport.

But now, in the years following the NHL lockout, Commissioner Bettman has turned the game into a wuss-fest. His iron fist reign has been laughable for many reasons that we will not get into. But, just when I thought it could not get worse, his league suspended Sean Avery for making comments about another player, Dion Phaneuf of the Calgary Flames, and his girlfriend, Elisha Cuthbert (of "24" and "Old School" fame). "I just want to comment on how it's like become a common thing to fall in love with my sloppy seconds," Avery said. And he has been suspended for six games by the league and could be released by the Dallas Stars as a result. Now, let's set one thing straight: Avery is no angel. For those who do not follow hockey, he is a combination of TO, Ron Artest, and Manny Ramirez. He has been in trouble with the league for numerous incidents, both on and off the ice. Teammates and foes despise him. But suspending a guy for that comment? Come on. The NHL has no personality now. No more fighting, no more trash talking, no animosity allowed. Let's just all skate around for three periods, everyone's a winner, and when it's over, we'll all hold hands and sing "Kumbaya". Gary Bettman, until you learn how to market your league and emphasize what sets it apart from other sports entities (and thereby allow it to once again be interesting), I'm not watching. My planned trip to a Hurricanes' game is now canceled. So NHL - you're dead to me.

(A quick aside - in my quest to find a picture of the aforementioned sloppy seconds known as Elisha Cuthbert, I did a google image search. I chose the least-risque picture I could find and ended up with her sitting in a see-through dress with a slit up to her mid-thigh. Elisha - you're an attractive girl. But really, you might want to look into cleaning up your image a little bit, or at least taking some pictures that involve more clothes than a push-up bra and undies).

2) Here Lies the Charlotte Bobcats. I have tried to have faith that this organization has a plan. I was completely against the selection of Adam Morrison over Brandon Roy; same for DJ Augustin this past year over Brock Lopez or Jerryd Bayless, but otherwise, I've tried to remain supportive. But now? Done. Jason Richardson, Jared Dudley, and a 2nd rounder for Boris Diaw, Raja Bell, and Sean Singletary???? What????

I understand that the Bobcats were willing to move Richardson or Gerald Wallace. Fine. Need more of a low-post presence, hopefully with some versatility. But Boris-freakin-Diaw? He of the "I don't date American girls, I have them" quote a few years back (click those links - unreal)? He of the no motivation, in poor physical condition, I-don't-even-know-what-defense-is history? Look, the Bobcats desparately needed a big guy to play power forward with shooting range and the ability to guard similar types of 4-men. Bosh, Dirk, Jamison, David West, and all other power forwards who are able to stretch a defense and drive always kill this team (go look at Bosh's boxscores against Charlotte, it's ridiculous). But Boris Diaw does not help on the defensive end whatsoever and can most positively be described as "inconsistent" (read: unmotivated) on the offensive end. As for Raja Bell, I think his skill-set lends itself to this team and Coach Larry Brown's system or guarding the basketball. However, he is 32 and expensive for what he brings to the table in my opinion. Furthermore, Charles Barkley tried to point out that by moving Richardson, more minutes would be available for Felton at the shooting guard spot. Two problems with that point: 1. Bell is also a shooting guard and therefore should take a lot of Richardson's minutes; and 2. Felton is not a freakin' 2-guard. But the worst part of this deal? Trading Dudley. As has been pointed out by multiple people, he did not have to be included to make the deal work. He is promising as a role player, has a high basketball IQ, and is cheap for the next three seasons. So what was he included for?

The most predictable reaction was that of the Charlotte Observer sports writers. Sorenson, Fowler, and Bonnell all like the trade. It's almost like they've been told to spin this as positively as they can to help generate interest in this team. Well, how can anyone be interested in a 28-win team? Because that's what we're heading towards. So, barring another trade (or five) that helps makeover this team (and get Diaw out of Charlotte), cancel my annual Christmas Break expedition to see the 'Cats play, because Charlotte Bobcats - you're dead to me.

3. Here Lies College Football under the BCS System. I am done with college football. Until there is a playoff system that we can all live with, I will watch the Tar Heels, I will watch Virginia Tech (or wherever I happen to be working), and I will keep an eye on Notre Dame. But as for rushing home to see "the big game" or any huge bowl game? Forget it. I'm not saying I'm not going to watch at all, but I am done caring. It is completely ridiculous that the sport with the potential to be far and away the most popular cannot figure out how to crown a champion fairly. No argument you can present me for the BCS makes any sense. The point of playing college football, like all other sports is as follows: YOU PLAY TO WIN THE GAME (c/o Herm Edwards, 2002). Bowl games are glorified exhibition games, all of them, except for the "BCS Championship Game". Yet, that game is put together based on computers and voting, not anything that happens on the field. You cannot possibly look me in the eye and say that the regular season is a year-long playoff and be serious. You cannot say that there are too many games if we move to a playoff. Heck, I'm fine with bowl games. Let them stay around. I have developed and revised my NCAA Football Playoff Plan numerous times and will be posting it soon on this blog, and it includes bowl games. There's nowhere I'd rather be this December 27th than sitting in Charlotte at the Tire Bowl (also known as the Meineke Car Care Bowl), watching the Tar Heels play a meaningless game against West Virginia. But it is absolutely STUPID to claim a "national champion" out of Florida vs Oklahoma.

A playoff is the only way to decide a champion, NCAA folks, Bowl folks, ESPN, and student-athletes. And until you make an effort to create one, you are leaving money, credibility, and history on the table. So college football, BCS - you're dead to me.

To wrap this up, a few other things are dead to me that do not warrant a paragraph. They are as follows:

4) Big Balla - you and your boat shoes. Just like I said on the phone the other night.
5) Conventional weight-lifting. Who needs a 315 lb squat or 265 lb bench press when you can do this?
6) Anyone who hates on Stephen Curry. I've seen the kid in person and do not understand how anyone can knock the guy. I think that's what we call "playa hatin".
7) MLB teams who think AJ Burnett is worth $75 million over five years to be your #1 starter. You know what that equation equals? 77 wins a season. Thankfully, it did not work out for the Braves. Now, we can move on to plan B - Randy Wolf. Unfortunately, Randy Wolf equals 70 wins a season.
8) T-Pain, Akon, and DJ Khaled. Don't get me wrong, I'm not putting a hit out on you guys, just saying that you're dead to me. But really, can't you guys just sit out a few songs for a while?
9) XM 65 The Rhyme. Unfortunately, it's really dead. A casualty of the Sirius-XM merger, my go-to station is no more. One email and one letter later, it has not come back. Furious.
10) Salt-water cleanses. I spent the better part of a recent Saturday trying not to be dead to myself as a result of the cleanse. Luckily the television in my bedroom easily reaches nearby rooms with showers, toilets, and sinks, so I did not miss any of the Hokies' second straight ACC Championship victory.

Alright, let's wrap this rant up. To be serious for a minute, I really just think Sean Avery's suspension is over-stepping the governance of the commissioner and the league. Freedom of Speech here people. The Bobcats are still my team and I hope they improve themselves - I just don't like this trade in the least. I will acknowledge though, that sometimes you have to take a step back to take a few forward. I hope this is the case. And finally, the BCS is just a total joke. Those in charge of the bowls and the conferences are the main problems, but no one (fans, TV networks, the media, no one) has taken a stand and said "no, I'm not watching this until you fix things and give us a legit champion".

I will be back with my NCAA Football Playoff Plan soon, along with an early-season report on the Tar Heels' basketball status. Until then, good luck to everyone in exams right now or just pushing through until some much-needed time off from the j-o-b.

Shush girl, shut your lips; do the Helen Keller and talk with your hips...

I Once Yelled Obscenities at Him

Mark Paschal's career at North Carolina is over. But his blood, sweat, and tears have paved the way for success.

I will sit down and write about Mark Paschal before our bowl game. I was planning to do this anyway, an extended blog about the senior class and what they've been through, focusing mainly on Paschal. But now that piece will have a little more meaning. The summary is this: no Carolina player embodies more of what a student-athlete should look like, what a tough, gritty, football player should look like, than #41.

Don't Even Worry, We Gonna Make It...

Last week, I was hoping to find the time and motivation to write a comprehensive preview of the college basketball season. A day spent on the national storylines, a day on the ACC, and a day on the Heels. Needless to say, this did not happen, as the crossover of football and hoops seasons here in Blacksburg has made for a pretty hectic time. Then, on Monday night, I was planning to just go ahead and put up a Carolina preview anyway, just in time for the loyal readership of The Blue Team to scan prior to the Kentucky game. However, something told me to hold off. And then This happened (great look from the courtside camera behind our basket, you can hear his frustration as he gets up).

So now our glorious season is done. All the hopes and dreams of the Carolina Family have been dashed. The season-long coronation of college basketball's best team will now be a battle just to make the NCAA Tournament. Injuries include Marcus and Tyler x2. We're toast.

Not exactly.

Back away slowly from that ledge, ye young Tar Heel enthusiast. Put down the sharp instruments o backer of the Baby Blue. And put away the AK-47 intended for Ramon Harris my fellow rooters of Roy (it was a hard foul, but not at all intentional or dirty, he's not named Gerald). This season is not over, the championship aspirations still remain. To quote Papa David Noel, "don't even worry, we gonna make it..."

As I watched the Kentucky game, I was extremely frustrated. The team was incredibly discombobulated, as evidenced by sloppy passes, poor decisions, and the lack of defensive rotation. We could not have won a national title down at the local YMCA, in my opinion. Lawson, in particular, did not have a good game, driving too far into the lane on numerous occasions, a mistake that frequently ended in a turnover. Suffice to say that, prior to Zeller going down with his wrist injury, I was not too pleased with what I was watching. But yesterday, even knowing that we were about to get news of Zeller's significant injury, the season came back into perspective.

The reason everyone seems so upset right now is the bad karma of three major injuries. Zeller's broken wrist finally brought to the surface what a lot of people were quietly whispering: this team is jinxed already. Too many injuries, too much bad karma to win a national title. But I got news for you: winning a national title is not just about karma. It's about perseverence, improving as a basketball team, and focusing on a goal together. Marcus is going to get healthy (eventually) and Psycho T will be dominating before too long. Before you know it, this team will play a complete game and run somebody decent out of the gym.

Of course, there will be some bad games. There will be a few losses I am sure. And if for some reason there are two more huge injuries (Ty Lawson anybody?) or Hansbrough cannot get healthy, then forget I ever wrote this post and keep me away from the utinsel drawer.

I am just asking that this season, the Carolina Family keeps the big picture in mind and manages to enjoy the ride along the way. The big picture is March - ultimately, that will determine the success of the season in the minds of most, as it normally does at Chapel Hill. So a loss next week in Maui or in mid-January is not the end of the world. But the ride is important too - enjoy watching the talented student-athletes, the highlight-reel plays, the blowouts, and the close victories. There is too much to be marveled at to just waste away an entire season expecting more or giving in the "bad karma". Besides, if you are feeling down, just watch this.

Don't even worry, we gonna make it...cause this year, we are bringing some more banners to the dome.

Can You Smell What Barack is Cookin'?

With today being the Super Bowl of the United States’ political world, it is the duty of The Blue Team to provide you, the bored-at-work reader, with a live rundown of political commentary from a moderate poli-sci major…and some sports too. After all, sports is still the specialty around these parts, so we cannot possibly allow a good night for blogging to pass us by without some serious sports analysis. Alright Peas, let’s get it started…

• It is 8:00pm and sixteen states just closed the polls. An influx of electoral votes for Barack Obama gives him his first lead of the night, a lead he likely will not lose, at least according to Vegas. ABC has already awarded Pennsylvania to Obama, but CNN has not. According to ABC, Obama for your Mama (OFYM) leads 102-34.
• CNN has switched to Suzanne Malveaux out at Grant Park in Chicago, who is finally audible to viewers at home after providing us with nothing about half an hour ago. The crowd was so loud that no one could hear poor Suzanne. It sounded much more like the north end zone at Virginia Tech than a political event.
• Dana Bash (not Dane-A, but Dan-A), is at the McCain camp in Arizona where a boys choir is performing in the background. Apparently Kanye West was booked. Dan-A reports that the mood is pretty somber in the Republican camp. Glad she was there to give us that bit of information.
• A quick shout-out to tonight’s proud food sponsor of The Blue Team: Chick-Fil-A. A #5 eight-pack combo, four-piece chicken strips, and sweet tea courtesy of an old 2006 Chick-Fil-A Bowl gift card. Here’s to going back and getting another gift card this season.
• Virginia’s Senate race has already been called for Mark Warner, the former governor of the Commonwealth. You could have called that race two months ago. I did not even know who he was running against until I saw my electronic ballot while voting today. Seriously, it is that much of a landslide.
• North Carolina, though early, is currently showing a lead for Obama. As I have mentioned to many folks, the fact that NC is even close to turning blue is an indicator to me of the strength of the Obama campaign and a realistic chance of winning this election.
• According to David Axelrod, Obama’s chief strategist, Barack and Michelle are chilling at home, waiting to party a little later tonight. He did indeed play his good-luck basketball game this afternoon, a game that no doubt included former Dookie Reggie Love. What a great gig that guy has.
• I was not at all surprised that Philip Fulmer was essentially fired by Tennessee yesterday. Things have gotten really bad for the Volunteer Nation, but the division within the fanbase is what has been shocking to me. Many common Volunteer fans gave up on Fulmer a few years ago following his 5-6 season that was littered with arrests and team turmoil. However, a number of big boosters remained fiercely loyal to the coaching staff despite big losses to Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. A contract extension following last season seemed to give Fulmer and the boys a vote of confidence; instead, it has just increased the cost of his contract buyout. Up to $9.6 million total, combining the $6 million owed to Fulmer over the next four seasons and $3.6 million to his staff, will be paid out by the athletic booster club. Add in the salary of the new coach and his staff and you will have quite an expensive year for the Volunteer Nation.
• Fox News has also awarded Pennsylvania to Obama, but CNN is holding off. Bizarro World.
• 70% of post-graduate educated voters in New Hampshire voted for Barack Obama. Smart people love OFYM apparently.
• Speaking of smart people, an interesting read by Donald Miller. Check it out, and thanks to the owner of Matt Swab for providing.
• So Psycho T has a stress reaction in his knee, which no doubt caused a stress reaction within the extended Carolina family. Obviously no one wants our prized, beloved, walk-on-water big man injured. However, “early in the season” and “not too bad” were the phrases associated with this injury. So folks, chill out and don’t stress over it (pun intended). Tyler will be fine.
• I hope.
• Kay Hagan is well-ahead of Libby Dole in the Senate race in North Carolina, yet another Democratic candidate who is likely to win a seat in Congress this year. Future Senator Hagan sat next to us at the NCAA Tournament last year in Raleigh as she and her daughter rooted on the Heels. They were very nice and seemed to be good fans. We did not know until she left who she was, as it was then she shook our hands and passed us a business card. Never asked for our vote, just enjoyed the game. I could not vote for her given my Virginia residency, but I am glad to see many others did.
• Rudy G is on ABC discussing Sarah Palin. He makes a very good point, mentioning that she has many of the qualifications of a normal Presidential or Vice Presidential candidate. However, 60% of people polled upon exit said she was “unqualified” to serve as President. Giuliani attributes this fact to the debate and the harsh criticism of the Democratic party of Palin’s selection. This despite her ranking as a 7.8 out of 10 amongst males ages 31-55.
• Kay Hagan has just been officially projected by CNN as the winner. Somehow, this Senate seat has gone from Jesse Helms to Libby Dole to Kay Hagan in a decade. Wow. The best part of this race was the recent television ad campaign by Dole that accused Hagan of being “godless”. I just find that hilarious. On the bright side, Libby Dole can go home and enjoy more “right moments” with husband Bob, he of the original endorser of Viagra.
• 9:00pm update – CNN has it 174-49, Fox News 163-81 in favor of OFYM.
• “Race was an important factor” = 55% for Obama, 44% for McCain; “Race was NOT an important factor” = 53% Obama, 45% McCain. Age actually ended up being a much more important factor, nearly 2:1, with 70% of those votes going to Barack Obama. Interesting.
• “If he loses Florida, it’s peace out Cub Scout for McCain”. – some dude on CNN.
• The NBA season just started last week and I am the lone person in Blacksburg who cares I think. And care I do. I am really interested in the growth of some teams from last season, especially New Orleans and Houston. I watched both win key early games last week, New Orleans at Phoenix and Houston at Dallas, and both squads had a key role played by new off-season additions. James Posey hit huge three-pointers late for the Hornets and Ron Artest was awesome on both ends of the floor for Houston, scoring 30 points and shutting down Dirk. I like both teams moving forward and cannot wait to watch them continue to gel in the competitive Western Conference.
• A fascinating story about Lynchburg, VA and EC Glass High School. The anchor on ABC (sorry, missed the name) related that the last time he was in the auditorium at the high school, Paul Harvey received a standing ovation when he complained that the school had dropped “Dixie” as its fight song. Barack Obama stood in the same auditorium a few weeks back and has now carried the county that contains Lynchburg. Times are a changin’.
• I’d like to thank Willis McGahee (did not play), Marshawn Lynch (left early – stomach virus), David Garrard (lack of passing the football to his team), and Brandon Marshall (general suckiness) for a crushing loss for the Hokie Thugs in the Phi Alpha league. Really, thanks guys. Please redeem yourselves ASAP.
• Rest easy (er) Carolina fans, Butch says he ain’t goin’ to Tennessee. No truth to the rumor that he pointed to a picture of Sarah Palin and said “she’s the only 10 I see”.
• Virginia is 70% reported with only a 12,000+/- lead for McCain. NC is 47% reported with similar numbers, but for Obama.
• ABC News sending us out to Kogelo, Kenya for coverage of the ancestral village of Barack Obama. Unfortunately the audio is not working, which really sucks because I think hearing their perspective would be a great story on election night. We did get a great shot of an African man in a red cowboy hat, which is amusing. Keeping the international theme, the Hispanic vote in New Mexico and Arizona increased as a whole in this election, mostly in support of Obama. A good story by ABC about a family in that region that is really, really struggling to make ends meet, so much so that Christmas will not include any gifts this year. That in itself is not as unusual as many people think in America or anywhere else, but does go to show the plight of many people in our nation.
• Ohio to Obama. Get the fork out.
• Roger Wilkins, a professor at George Mason University, and a board member of the NAACP, weighs in on the election, citing the different life his 6 year-old grandson will have than he did as a youngster. What an incredible impact on a young black boy or girl to see an African-American as the figurehead and chief executive officer of the United States.
• I think concessions speeches should includes hot dogs, popcorn, peanuts, and beer. Did you get that one? It was kind of quick, I know, but hilarious. You can stop laughing now though. Really.
• The Minnesota governor, Tim Pawlenty, weighs in on ABC about the problems with the Republican party. He acknowledges a lack of connecting with core, day-to-day issues, and with the younger generation of voters. He also mentions the slowness of the party to respond to environmental and healthcare issues. Finally, he talks about how much an economic downturn has hurt the incumbent party in all national elections over history, as every time we face tough economic conditions, the non-ruling party tends to win the next vote.
• Facebook and Twitter are cited by ABC for data on younger voters. I love Facebook.
• Mark Warner’s acceptance speech as Senator of Virginia commences with “Right Here, Right Now” playing in the background. If he’d have played 311, I’d kiss him.
• A quick summary of my personal voting today. I moved two months ago and have not yet received my change-of-address information (i.e. new voter registration card). I also have two valid driver’s licenses, one with my old address, the other my new one. However, I went to my original voting locale and simply showed one license, got my name checked off, and voted. We voted for President, Senate, House of Representatives, and School Board here in Blacksburg, that was it. Four votes to cast. I was in and out in less than five minutes, and it would have been shorter had I not stood in the booth and stared at my electronic vote for an extra minute, taking it all in. On the flip side, my parents waited for over an hour in Mint Hill/Charlotte to vote. Yet another advantage of small college towns.
• A striking discussion on CNN between James Carville and their Republican correspondent, Alex Castellanous. Alex says that the Democratic party has moved towards the center with Barack Obama, while Carville claims the past two years to be “an absolute drubbing” in favor of the more liberal party. Both are correct to an extent. I do think that the party has moved a bit more towards the center in the past decade or so, post-Clinton, but I do not think that is the sole (or even major) reason for the dramatic shift in Congress toward the Democratic party. Much more of that has to do with the Republican party’s lack of connecting to voters on domestic policies and every-day issues. I’d go on, but let’s save two hours.
• Congressman John Lewis, a former associate of Martin Luther King Jr., weighs in on ABC, talking of shedding tears and being over-whelmed by the potential history of this day. The perspective of an African-American who lived through and experienced America during the Civil Rights Movement is so different from anyone else tonight. I think reading their thoughts in the coming days and weeks will be incredibly interesting.
• Thanks to Bailey’s and Coke Zero for their combined support here in the 10 o’clock hour.
• Quick shift to the NFL – how ‘bout them Cowboys? Dallas has fallen apart without Tony Romo and with the onslaught of defensive injuries. I find it funny that everyone on ESPN talked up Brad Johnson when Romo was injured, as he is experienced and solid at quarterback, except now they all think he sucks because he…well, he sucks. Funny how quickly these “experts” have changed their minds. The NFC is pretty clear to me: New York, Philly, and Carolina are really good (who hoo!), Arizona, New Orleans, and Green Bay are dangerous, Washington and Tampa Bay are tough, and Dallas is the wild card team that could go either way. Not too worried about the other squads, Atlanta included. The AFC is a bit cloudier, with Tennessee and Pittsburgh leading the way, but the entire AFC East (including Miami given their schedule), Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Baltimore, and San Diego lurking for the final four playoff spots. I picked Pittsburgh to win the Super Bowl, and I stand by that prediction so long as Big Ben’s big shoulder is ok.
• In local Virginia news, the 5th district race for a Congressional seat had originally been called for incumbent Virgil Goode over an hour ago by the Associated Press; however, they have back off that claim as of 10:30pm, as Democrat Tom Perriello is leading the vote by just over 2,500 votes with 95% reporting. I am amused by this, of course.
• Barack Obama is 47, right between the baby-boomers and Gen X, as pointed out by Roland Martin on CNN, potentially allowing him to relate to both major generations. The discussion then turns to Obama’s potential party allegiance as our President: will he turn left or stay closer to the center? Speculation says it depends on his ability to get Republicans in Congress to buy in to his policies.
• Fox News has just declared Virginia to Barack Obama. CNN, ABC, and Fox News will not go this far, but I’ll do it: stick the fork in John McCain, he is done.
• Will I Am of the Black Eyed Peas (ironic since this live rundown began with a reference to BEP) joins CNN’s Anderson Cooper live in the studio via hologram for his analysis. They joke about it, but it really looks like something out of Star Trek. This is unreal. He is really a hologram standing in their studio. I am bamboozled right now…maybe it was the Bailey’s.
• Let’s get real serious here for a minute. Barack Obama is about to become our President. Historically, he is significant because he will be the nation’s first minority President. But, will he really be a good President? Can he unite the nation, turn the economy around, protect our borders from both attack and illegal immigration, provide affordable healthcare while decreasing taxes, build stronger relationships with our international neighbors, police the world landscape, and represent the office with dignity, class, and integrity? Can he really do it? Just being the first black President cannot be enough; he must create a legacy of sound decision-making and leadership in addition to the historical significance due to his race. I liken this to Jackie Robinson breaking of the color barrier in Major League Baseball: had Jackie been an average player, his legacy would only have been related to the color of his skin. But, Robinson was a Hall of Fame player, a revolutionary player with speed and athleticism not yet seen in the league. He would have been remembered simply based on his skills had he not been black. That is what Barack Obama must strive for in his presidency. A legacy of change, of improvement, of greatness, in addition to the historical significance of his race.
• 11:00pm EST: Barack Obama has been elected the 44th President of the United States. United State history, for the first time, has no color barrier. Yes, we can. And we did.
• Watching the celebrations in Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and around the country is like one huge College World Series dog pile one the pitcher’s mound. What joy, what adulation.
• Great analysis on CNN about tonight’s result: this does not change anything overnight as far as US policy goes. However, it does go a long way in changing the way other nations, especially more progressive Europe, view our country. We must move forward as a nation, united as one now. “We the People” is finally just that: We, ALL of the People.
• Quick thoughts on President-Elect Barack Obama’s acceptance speech will have to come another day. In addition, more analysis will come in the next couple months, and hopefully we will find out the name of the new Obama dog as well. For now, let’s end with a couple of thoughts…

Galatians 3:26 – 28: “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

And from the song “Changes”, courtesy of Tupac Shakur: “It’s time for us as a people to start makin’ some changes . Let’s change the way we eat, let’s change the way we live and let’s change the way we treat each other. You see the old way wasn’t working so it’s on us to do what we gotta do, to survive.”

God bless America.