tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-292207142024-03-08T15:30:05.827-08:00The DascenzoSports and pop culture, simultaneously.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-54522087642635921282011-04-16T18:32:00.000-07:002011-04-16T19:02:10.257-07:00SaturDame: Spring Game 2012Unlike last year I did not attend. I didn't even watch on my TV, I watched the stream on und.com. But I picked up enough to make some notes.<br /><br />Dayne Crist and Tommy Rees are not the QB's Brian Kelly is looking for.<br /><br />Andrew Hendrix and/or Everett Golston are the future of Notre Dame football. But I fear for Everett health if he's going to remain that small.<br /><br />On punts Notre Dame elected to enforce the John Goodman rule, all fair catches no returns.<br /><br />Aaron Lynch is either amazing or the ND offensive line needs a lot of work. I hope it's the former.<br /><br />Cierre Wood with no fumbles is going to be the best RB that shows up in Notre Dame games this year (I mean opponents don't have a better RB (Denard Robinson is a QB, so far)).<br /><br />John Goodman made a heck of a catch on his touchdown catch, he gave himself a ton of room to land and Golston made a sick throw, as well.<br /><br />Have I mentioned Aaron Lynch yet?<br /><br />The kicking game has some competition, even with mulligans on extra points.<br /><br />I expect Kyle Brindza to be the punter, unless BK is holding him back for a redshirt.<br /><br />Is there anything better than Brian Kelly yelling at mo-hawked Robby Toma? "You're not fast, you're not tall and that haircut's not very good. So catch the ball."<br /><br />The offense would be sick if they had a superstar receiver out there...<br /><br />Lo Wood's future is so bright he's going to need a tinted visor.<br /><br />Manti T'eo didn't make any tackles. WHATSUPWITHTHAT?<br /><br />I know, he didn't play on defense.<br /><br />In summation:<br />Andrew Hendrix is really good and fits the system.<br />Everett Golston is tiny but good.<br />Cierre Wood is awesome. His <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2bBbU_HMEg">sideways, backward juke</a> (1:14 in the link) in the Western game is one of my favorite plays of last year.<br />The defense is going to be awesome next year.<br />I'm really trying to calm myself down about predictions for the upcoming season (undefeated going into Stanford?).<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZjrzneMv2U"><br />And a trailer for the upcoming season.</a><br /><br />Follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/Dascenzo">twitter</a>.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-18748315197283632010-05-28T00:12:00.000-07:002010-05-28T00:20:27.394-07:00UFC 114The new edition of UFC Undisputed marks my anniversary of actually following MMA and I'll go on record with predictions for the first time. Hopefully the online functionality of the video game will be up by the time this card is over...<br /><br />LHW: <a href="http://www.interestment.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/ba-baracus.jpg">B.A</a>. <a href="http://www.mmaconvert.com/wp-content/uploads/post-images/a_team_1.jpg">Baracus,</a> I mean <a href="http://maximus03.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/rampage-jackson.jpg">Rampage Jackson</a> will beat <a href="http://mmajunkie.com/dyn/images/fighters/Rashad-Evans.jpg">Sugar Rashad Evans</a>, by <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://content6.flixster.com/question/37/53/87/3753872_std.jpg">KFO</a><br /><br /></span>MW: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40-Nr6lKNMU">Michael Bisping</a> will lose to Dan Miller by Submission.<br /><br />HW: Todd Duffee will knock out Mike Russow.<br /><br />LHW: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira wins by KO over Jason Brillz.<br /><br />WW: Diego Sanchez will win by decision over John Hathaway.<br /><br />WW: Amir Sadollah over Dong (really?) Hyun Kim via leg bar.<br /><br />LW: Efrain Escodero will beat Dan Lauzon by KO.<br /><br />LW: Melvin Guillaid will outexperience Waylon Lowe and win by KO.<br /><br />LHW: Diabete over Cane via submission.<br /><br />LW: Riley over Brammer by KO.<br /><br />MW: Jensen over Forbes by decision.<br /><br />KO of the night will go to Todd Duffee.<br />Sub of the night will go to Jimmy John's Gargantuan, err, Amir Sadollah.<br />Fight of the Night is Rampage and Sugar.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-22274528117325760612010-05-20T00:52:00.000-07:002010-05-20T00:57:31.580-07:00A DUKE GRAD?How does JJ Redick make the worst play possible in the final moments of an Eastern Conference Finals game? He went to one of the best schools in America. FOR FOUR YEARS. Coach K is supposedly the best college coach in America, you would think he would be able to explain common sense to his players... Yet, there was JJ dribbling the ball up court and then stopping on the wrong side of half court and finally calling a time out. Is this JJ's fault of Stan Van's fault? It is JJ's fault only because if you're playing in the NBA you have to KNOW THE RULES!!!! Either go hard for a basket or call a time out immediately not a combination of the two. JJ thought he could be a hero and force overtime with a Gordan Heyward like heave, then he remembered that teams play defense in the NBA and he called a time out. <br /><br />JJ Redick is officially an idiot.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-56815007132635529302010-05-07T23:42:00.000-07:002010-09-01T07:14:22.775-07:00My Trip To Press Row<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Will Leitch’s book, Are We Winning, has a chapter about covering games and hanging out in the PRESS BOX which made me think about the game I covered when interning at the original WDFN (a Detroit radio station that went to all national radio shows before rebooting as a local station that I refer to as WDFN2.0) as a 21 year-old.</p><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">It was a pre-season NIT game between <st1:place><st1:placename>Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>State</st1:placetype></st1:place> and <st1:state><st1:place>Oklahoma</st1:place></st1:state>.<span style=""> </span><st1:state><st1:place>Michigan</st1:place></st1:state> State was coming three straight Final Fours, but this was a rebuilding team (as much as MSU has had rebuilding teams).<span style=""> </span>I drove the 70 plus miles, skipping school at Specs Howard in order to cover this game.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> If I remember correctly, I got into Breslin using Matt Dery's press pass, went down some stairs and started wandering. I eventually found the area serving the press dinner, Why. The. Face. I grabbed a couple chicken wings and something to drink and sat down at a table where a couple people were sitting.<span style=""> </span>I finally looked up and noticed BILL RAFTERY (onions) and John Saunders were sitting there, holding court, as people say, with a couple of other people.<span style=""> </span>I didn’t have the balls to say anything to these guys and I just sat there with no idea of what was supposed to happen.<span style=""> </span>If I remember correctly, Bill introduced himself and said hello, I quickly said hello and went back to listening but I was really just in awe.<span style=""> </span>I have no recollection of what was said.<span style=""> </span>Time to figure out where my seat was. Luckily or just effectively, the seating chart was on the back of the door.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I sat down in the best seat I’ve ever had for a sporting event and got set to cover a basketball game.<span style=""> </span>I had no idea what I was supposed to do during the game. My job was to get some sound bytes after the game and upload them for Matt Shepherd to use when he did the news for the morning show featuring Jamie Samuelsen and Greg Brady. I entered the “gym” from behind the basket and stopped in my tracks when I realized where I was.<span style=""> </span>I eventually found my seat and noticed a tv set up for the reporters (and me) every 2 spots. Everyone sitting at press row was given the same paper they handed out to the Izzone which informed them who wore goggles and which player had dissed MSU for Oklahoma when he transferred (Hollis Thomas) among other things which I have forgotten.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Then the game began, oh my were these players fast, watching at home or in the stands were my seats usually were, did not let me know how fast the game actually was.<span style=""> </span>I remember the game as Tim Bograkas’s break out game as he got playing time and played his normal defense that caused steals and allowed MSU some fast break points.<span style=""> </span>This was the team that featured Alan Anderson, Kelvin Torbert and Chris Hill as the new guard freshman.<span style=""> </span>Marcus Taylor was the starting point guard and everyone assumed he would go on to fame and fortune in the NBA.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">At halftime I had no idea where to go, so I just stayed in my seat finally calming down.<span style=""> </span>Then someone came from the tunnel and handed me a stat sheet for the first half.<span style=""> </span>Wow, this was freaking awesome, I knew who shot what percentage and how many fouls Aloysius Anogonye had.<span style=""> </span>The game, as you have probably guessed, went by in a flash and I have almost no memory of it other than MSU won.<span style=""> </span>I remember discussing the speed of the game in the bullpen at the radio station the next day and Mike Stone responding with something like, “Yeah, those games go by fast, they’re fun to cover.”<span style=""> </span>Not exactly what I meant, but true none the less.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">After the game came the fun part, sitting in the press room and getting to ask the coaches questions.<span style=""> </span>I hooked up my tape recorder to something that allowed all the reporters to get the whole press conference and sat down to enjoy these coaches getting grilled by veteran reporters.<span style=""> </span>Nothing of consequence happened when Izzo was talking so I went to get my tape recorder.<span style=""> </span>Luckily, Kelvin Sampson was quick to the microphone and I didn’t miss anything, as I sat back down a little embarrassed.<span style=""> </span>When Kelvin was done, we got to go into the locker room and talk to the players.<span style=""> </span>I exclusively went into the MSU room because whoever I followed went there first. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=""> </span>I remember groups of people around Marcus Taylor and Kelvin Torbert so I thrust my microphone in their faces and got some quotes, if I remember correctly I asked Marcus something about them getting most of their field goals off assists (it was a ridiculous amount like 85%).<span style=""> </span>Then I moved around the room to the players that didn’t have crowds, like my good friend Aloysius.<span style=""> </span>Someone asked him about moving on to <st1:place><st1:placename>Madison</st1:placename> <st1:placename>Square</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>Garden</st1:placetype></st1:place> and it being the mecca of basketball, which I noted in my head.<span style=""> </span>Then I moved over to Adam Wolfe. BY MYSELF.<span style=""> </span>I asked him somethings about the game, then I dropped the MSG bomb, which I used to discuss going to <st1:city><st1:place>New York City</st1:place></st1:city> mere months after 9-11 had happened. He was the last guy I talked to and I eventually made my way out of the <st1:place><st1:placename>Breslin</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>Center</st1:placetype></st1:place>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I never did hear any of my cuts of audio on the radio, but that was easily my favorite thing I did for WDFN.<span style=""> </span>Adam Wolfe broke his leg that year, which I marked up to my jinx and for that Adam I’m sorry.<span style=""> </span><st1:state><st1:place>Oklahoma</st1:place></st1:state> would make it to the final four that year and I rooted for them the whole time because I could tell my story of covering them whenever they showed up on TV.<span style=""> </span>I got to go into the Lions locker room a couple of times for WDFN (once with John Bloom and once with “The Gorilla" Sherilla) but nothing compares to the time I discussed hoops with Raf and Izzo.</p>Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-86870194312504590962010-04-19T15:35:00.000-07:002010-04-19T16:40:45.084-07:00My Mock DraftI'm going to draft based on NFL GM's being idiots, not the fact the Suh is the best player in this draft.<br /><br />STL- Sam Bradford - at least he isn't injury prone. Bust percentage 65.<br /><br />DTL- Ndamakuh Suh - A stud. 10 years at least as a dominant player.<br /><br />TBB - Gerald McCoy- Let's try not to out think ourselves.<br /><br />WSR - Russell Okung - A left tackle. Big surprise. Lockdown.<br /><br />KCC - Jimmy Clausen - Weis and Clausen. USC QB Cassell can be seen somewhere else. Contract looked good, but it actually isn't.<br /><br />STS - Trent Williams - Offensive Tackle. Why not.<br /><br />CLB - Eric Berry - Best available player and who doesn't need a Safety.<br /><br />OKR - Bryan Bulaga - If one Iowa tackle doesn't work, try again.<br /><br />BFB - CJ Spiller - Hi Mr. Playmaker, welcome to Canada.<br /><br />JVJ - Dez Bryant - They need a WR playmaker, it makes to much sense to actually happen.<br /><br />DVB - Joe Haden - They need an offensive player but none are there. Trade could happen.<br /><br />MID - Rolando McClain - Defensive stand-out.<br /><br />SF9 - Bruce Campbell - Tackle protects QB.<br /><br />STS - Derrick Morgan - Help both lines with your 2 1st rounders. Done. and. Done.<br /><br />NYG - Jason Pierre-Paul - Defensive Line? Defensive Line. Always.<br /><br />TNT - Mike Iupati - Offensive Line is how you protect Vince. Fact.<br /><br />SF9 - Earl Thomas - Outstanding Safety.<br /><br />PTS - Brandon Graham - Best available pass rusher. They wish a QB was available.<br /><br />ATL - Sean Witherspoon - Best player available.<br /><br />HST - Maurice Pouncey - Offensive Line is sexy.<br /><br />CNB - Kyle Wilson - A good cornerback, shocking.<br /><br />NEP - Taylor Mays - They love players.<br /><br />GBP- Sergio Kindle - Their defense was terrible. This helps.<br /><br />PHE - Jared Odrick - No question, defense needs to be addressed.<br /><br />BTR - Golden Tate - He is fucking awesome. Fact.<br /><br />AZC - Jermaine Gresham - Leonard Pope sucks.<br /><br />DLC - Jared Odrick - Defensive Line? Sure, why not.<br /><br />SDC - Jhavid Best - Some Running Back left, they might as well replace him.<br /><br />NYJ - Dan Williams- Rex like defense!<br /><br />MNV - Anthony Davis - Protection for some QB no one has ever liked.<br /><br />IDC - Jerry Hughes - Defensive help.<br /><br />NOS - Kareem Jackson - More defensive help.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-54190367052000046162010-03-17T22:08:00.000-07:002010-03-17T22:22:57.432-07:00Mostly My BracketThis is the general consensus of what my bracket consists of, some randomness ensues but this is the majority of my picks (I'm hedging with Baylor and ND in the Final Four, sorry).<br /><br />Mid-West 1st round upsets:<br /><br />San Diego State. Stay classy.<br /><br />East 1st round upsets:<br /><br />Cornell. Andy Bernard.<br />Washington. Isaiah Thomas.<br /><br />East 1st round upsets:<br /><br />Siena<br />St. Mary's<br /><br />West 1st round upsets<br /><br />UTEP. They have Caracter.<br />Murray State. Flight of the Conchords pick.<br /><br />Sweet Sixteen<br /><br />Zags, Utep, Xavier, KState, Nova, Baylor/ND, aTm, Duke, WVU, New Mexico, Scons, KY, KU, Mary Land, GT, OSU<br /><br />Elite Eight<br /><br />KU, OSU, Scons, WVU, Baylor/ND, aTm, Utep, Kstate<br /><br />Final Four<br /><br />KU, Kstate, Baylor/ND, WVU<br /><br />Final<br /><br />KU over WVUDascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-39135134292857625192010-03-07T18:29:00.000-08:002010-03-07T18:34:20.482-08:00Why I Still Love MySpace<span id="ctl00_ctl00_ctl00_cpMain_cpMain_cpMain_BulletinRead_ltl_body" class="readbulletinBody">"Well is there any normal guy that is actually good to the person that they r with? a down to earth person that dont freak out over the little bullshit in life that dont even matter, n dont let it ruin their plans? im tired of the back n forth games guys play n its prolly cuz of the age, but i wish i knew someone who knows what they want instead of someone who ain't sure, so is playing the 'i love u' one day & 'i hate u' the next day game. thats jus bullshit to do that to someone. well gimme sum feedback on this one!"<br /><br />I'm assuming the chick that wrote this wanted her boyfriend to ignore her kissing other dudes, that ain't cheatin 'less my bra comes off!<br /></span>Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-53249954990953943362010-03-05T12:57:00.000-08:002010-03-05T13:01:47.522-08:00Never more scared of FUN<script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript" src="http://wxyz.img.entriq.net/dayportcore/dpm/DayPortPlayers.js"></script><script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript">DayPortPlayer.newPlayer({articleID:"26637",bannerAdObjectID:"5",videoAdObjectID:"4",videoAdConDefID:"2",playerInstanceID:"24FAD9E0-DC70-2532-414F-7E6F051C4C2F",domain:"wxyz.dayport.com",rootCategory:"",categoryID:"13",accPos:"CCTVI.OTHER",accSite:"WXYZ"});</script>Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-45917036777950373232010-02-22T13:47:00.000-08:002010-02-22T13:57:07.388-08:00Top 25 2-21-101. Kentucky<br />2. Kansas<br />3. Duke<br />4. Purdue<br />5. Syracuse<br />6. Ohio State<br />7. Kansas State<br />8. Villanova<br />9. Georgetown<br />10. New Mexico<br />11. West Virginia<br />12. Pittsburgh<br />13. BYU<br />14. Michigan State<br />15. Vanderbilt<br />16. Butler<br />17. Wisconsin<br />18. Gonzaga<br />19. Temple<br />20. Tennessee<br />21. Richmond<br />22. Baylor<br />23. Northern Iowa<br />24. Texas<br />25. Virginia TechDascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-48435654640358258462009-12-27T22:39:00.000-08:002009-12-28T09:28:28.180-08:00Piston Naughts 00-09Center-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmJI2ikhPoY">Ben Wallace</a>. Defensive dominance. Alliteration. Ben blocks. Reaction rebounds. Fail free-throws.<br /><br />Power Forward-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4E0N8pNR9U">Rasheed Wallace</a>. The trade that won a championship. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvAHMvlm9eY">"Ball don't lie."</a> Forgot to cover Big Shot Bob. His shtick got old when he couldn't back it up.<br /><br />Small Forward-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1ob8mNDcNk">Tayshaun Prince</a>. The block that won a championship. Still skinny as an Olsen twin. Still from Compton.<br /><br />Shooting Guard-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2kenbmpyQo">Richard "Rip" Hamilton</a>. Forced basketball video games to incorporate the mask. The mid-range game master.<br /><br />Point Guard-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxBNzlu5Kfk">Chauncey Billups</a>. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9QTduwA49k">Mister Big Shot</a>. NBA Finals MVP.<br /><br />Bench-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAbogqQkxTY">Antonio McDyess</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtnYvzJ70d4">Corliss Williamson</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rr4vbyqzP9U">Rodney Stuckey</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDVgk6yKfJ4">Lindsey Hunter</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTS59-ej1fU">Jason Maxiell</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLbwZS6Ars8">Dale Davis</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kR2YfYqoLoI">Darko</a>.<br /><br />Coach-<a href="http://www.jockweb.com/images/larry%20brown.jpg">Larry Brown</a>. He loves you guys.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-65221516253711947932009-12-25T00:19:00.000-08:002009-12-27T22:39:49.980-08:00The Naughts Tigers 00-09Catcher-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oczf9Db91PQ&feature=related">Pudge</a> Signed on to a terrible roster and led a remarkable rebuild all the way to a World Series appearance... the trade for Farnsworth shouldn't cost Pudge the fact that he was beginning of the turnaround.<br /><br />1st Base-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-SVXwgvJkQ">Miguel Cabrera</a> Even though he was supposed to be the third baseman but he ate his way out of that spot, he can still hit with the best of them and if he solves his problems will be the first baseman on the teens team as well.<br /><br />2nd Base- <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOi32T08Wh8">Placido Polanco</a> One of the greatest swindels ever pulled off Ugueth "The Flaming Machete" was traded for Polly who turned out to be a clutch hitter and one of the best defenders of the decade<br /><br />3rd Base-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RsCTC4uKO4">Brandon Inge</a> I hate him as a player even though he's a good person.<br /><br />Shortstop-Carlos Guillen Another great trade by Dombrowski brought in one of the best all around players the Tigers have had. He's played everywhere on this roster and when healthy is a player you can build a team around.<br /><br />Left Field-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUSlsj0jrFw">Rob Fick</a> My favorite Tiger of the naughts he forced the tie in the all-star game with the game deciding RBI and actually had an arm for assists.<br /><br />Center Field-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdrV5iF43tQ">Curtis Granderson</a> Many peoples favorite Tiger until the trade to the Yankees this off season. He put together a 4x20 season and can make the spectacular play in the outfield.<br /><br />Right Field-<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UJZPZd-Pus">Magglio Ordonez</a> He put together one the greatest offensive seasons ever seen by a Tiger and hit the home run that sent the '06 team to the World Series<br /><br />Bench-Raburn (my favorite Tiger) Santiago (traded FOR Guillen) Monroe (power) Casey (the Mayor) Laird (all glove/arm) Pena (livin' it up in the Bay)<br /><br />Starters:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4e2eaow4LQ">Verlander</a> (chance to be an all-time great)<br />Bonderman<br />Rogers<br />Porcello<br />Robertson (gum time)<br /><br />Bullpen<br />Seay<br />Zumaya (lighting when he's on)<br />Rodney<br />Miner<br />Maroth (great fill in as a starter)<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHBHbGAD0rg">Todd "Roller Coaster" Jones</a> (blew a save on my 21st but came back to Detroit and got saves)<br /><br />Line-up<br /><br />Granderson<br />Polanco<br />Pudge<br />Cabrera<br />Ordonez<br />Pena<br />Guillen<br />Fick<br />IngeDascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-74514428170587443782009-09-26T22:39:00.000-07:002009-09-26T23:08:26.322-07:00Top 251. Florida - Tebow should not have been in the game when he almost died.<br />2. Texas - Colt McCoy only misses his mustache.<br />3. Alabama - Wait until Saban starts recruiting...<br />4. Boise State - The Oregon win is looking better every week.<br />5. LSU - Avoided the scare this week, but won't last the year.<br />6. Cincinnati - Michigan State probably should have hired Brian Kelly.<br />7. Va Tech - The U was MIA.<br />8. USC - Bounced back, Washington did not.<br />9. Iowa - Kirk Ferentz will not go to the NFL until JoePa retires.<br />10. Ohio State - I don't know what to do with them.<br />11. TCU - A very good team in a bad conference.<br />12. Houston - A very good team in a bad conference.<br />13. Miami - The U was MIA... they don't like water.<br />14. Kansas - Todd Reesing and Jake Sharp like Dez Briscoe.<br />15. Oklahoma - The mustached man looks pretty good.<br />16. Michigan - Big 10 officials are awful. Anybody disagree?<br />17. Oregon - Are making Boise State look better and better.<br />18. Penn State - JoePa is owned by Ferentz and is old enough to remember slavery.<br />19. Ole Miss - Collapsed from being way, way, way, overrated.<br />20. Oklahoma State - Paid Grambling to rape them.<br />21. Cal - The annual Calapse.<br />22. Missouri - Have four wins against teams that had combined for 1 win over D-1 teams.<br />23. Auburn - I don't know, do you?<br />24. UGA - I don't know, do you?<br />25. Notre Dame - They show how hard it is to win when you only play 3 quarters and the other team plays all 4.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-51996528059319016662009-08-17T21:46:00.000-07:002009-08-17T22:13:45.043-07:00Finally a BatAubrey Huff the former Devil Ray and Oriole is now a member of the Detroit Tigers. He can play third base so that Raburn can just be an outfielder after that disaster on Sunday. He can play first base which allows Cabby days off or days at DH and Guillen days off. Best of all he can play outfield which gives Clete "Country" Thomas days off and Magglio "PED" (allegedly) Ordonez days off. Hopefully the Tigers can avoid getting Mags the 80 or so at bats he needs to vest his 18 million dollar season next year. I'd almost be willing to miss the playoffs this year if it meant no mo Mags, it would free up 15 million dollars for next year, along with Sheffield's contract coming off the books they can buy a full time bat for the outfield next year and maybe re-sign Washburn. This is the lineup I'd like to see most of the time.<br /><br />Granderson-CF<br />Polanco-2B<br />Guillen-DH<br />Cabrera-1B<br />Huff-LF<br />Thames-RF<br />Inge-3B<br />Laird/Avila -C<br />Everett/Santiago-SS<br /><br />Lefty righty for 2/3 of the lineup then it's just a toss up anyway, plus the ability to switch Inge with Raburn and putting Huff at third helps the lineup, while Inge blames his knee for his second half collapse.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-44607063228929011082009-08-08T04:36:00.000-07:002009-08-08T05:10:26.331-07:00I hate PEDs!!!!I hope I'm not the first person to write this. If I cared enough I could google it I guess, but I don't care enough. I HATE BOTH THE RED SOX AND THE YANKEES! When the Rays broke through last year I was ecstatic, the AL East means something new. It is not the same old, same old, cheaters don't always win, sometimes the underdog can take out the favorite. Then this year happened, somehow the SAWX won the first EIGHT game against the YANX and took control of the East, except they still trailed the YANX when this series started on Thursday. Clue to MLB EVERYONE HATES THE YANX AND SAWX, these teams are the same to everyone else, they spend a bonanza on anyone they want and if the free agents don't fit their fancy they claim that payrolls are down. This is ridiculous, Boston fans hate A-Roid because they couldn't come up with TWELVE MILLION DOLLARS to pay him. Can you imagine how bad the Mitchell Report would look if A-Roid were a SAWX player? George left out Manny and Papi because they play for BAWSTON he would left out A-ROID just the same. MLB is in a terrible state, where every player is guilty, there is no innocense in baseball.<br /> Did Tim Wakefield use? Did Gerald Laird? Did Alan Trammell? At this point you couldn't convine Helen Keller that anyone was innocent of PEDs. Yes, PEDs, is what we have to call them, since there are so many different drugs that those guys have taken to advance themseves. The high school/college player doesn't have to blame a coach for not giving him the proper oppurtunty anymore, now he can blame PEDs whatever those are. I first heard of PEDs my Freshman year of high school when someone was hurt before football season and came back stronger then ever. The rumor existed among everyone,but who would let a coach know about him, let them figure it out on their own right? He played his senior year with no questions as I remember...<br /> I never even thought about PEDs after that moment in conditioning drills my freshman year of high school, I didn't play much in high school football, is that my fault? I like to think that I didn't earn a spot on a team, but did I get screwed over by PEDs? Did my friends and teammates get screwed over by PEDs? I hope not, I've never really even thought about it since that one day, my freshman year when everyone heard the rumor about this one guy. Can I come up with names of people that I think may have used PEDs during HS to better themselves, YES I CAN. I'd never imagined that they would have used them until I wrote this artictle, do I think I got screwed over by drugs, not at all, I should have worked harder in the weight room, but during pratices I gave my all, did everyone? I honestly don't know, we were a BAD HS football team my senior year and didn't get much better until a new coach took over and made sure everyone started lifting weights. Do I think anyone on my bad football team beat me out of a postition because they were on a PED? No. I honestly think that I got beaten out by people that were "better" then me. I honestly can't name more the two or three people that I think may have taken PEDs on my HS football team 12 years ago, but do I think it's rampant among HS athletes now? YES, I do, with no factual information to back it up, I would assume people of all walks are taking to the PEDs as an advantage. I'm no longer shocked by anyone having a positive test and I wouldn't be shocked by anyone testing positive at this point.<br /> Where does this leave athletics? In a terrible place where you are guilty until proven innocent. Release the names on the 2003 list MLB, Shawn Merriman is a known cheater in the NFL, Rashard Lewis just tested positive which throws the Magic's Eastern Conference run under scrutiny. No one is innocent as I see it, everyone could have done some form of PEDs, it's been 14 year since I first heard of them and not much has been down to break away from the Mark McGwire/Barry Bonds era. Athletes are suspended everyday it seems like and I'm sick of it. They just banned a certain type of swimsuit in the swimming races, how about we come up with tougher tests for the swimmers and let them wear whatever they want. Lance gets tested constantly according to him and he's never tested positive, he is the only athlete I beleive is innocent of everything, well him and Rich Garces. TEST EVERYONE PUBLICLY! This seems like the only way out. Either piss in a cup or get out the way. I would do anything to be a pro athlete but I wouldn't take an illegal drug, or was I never offered an illegal drug...Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-63332186313146794132009-07-06T19:55:00.000-07:002009-07-06T21:14:23.813-07:00MLB All-StarsThe All Star game sucks. In every league. Those are facts. Also a fact, baseballs sucks the least. The every team gets an all star worked 60 years ago when there were ten teams in either league and only white guys played, now there are 14/16 and <a href="http://curveballsforjesus.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/barry_bonds1.jpg">everyone is allowed to play</a>. It's stupid. The Dascenzo All Stars. No <a href="http://www.shoppingblog.com/pics/arod_kissing_mirror.jpg">A-Roids</a>, no <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm1EOHWA-eA">Eye Papi</a>, no <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzgPdrUlk6E">Manny</a>.<br /><br />AMERICAN LEAGUE<br /><br />Catcher - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Evf7SweO3QQ">Joe Mauer</a>, Victor Martinez. The AL only has two catchers that are any good this year, unless you play fantasy then you are wondering why B. Inge isn't on this team.<br /><br />First Base - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8vkMsru5hY">Justin Morneau</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0p08e8pFcsY">Kevin Youkilis</a>, Miguel Cabrera. Teixera misses out because of his April.<br /><br />Seond Base - Aaron Hill, Ian Kinsler. Brian Roberts is all steals and no substance.<br /><br />Third Base - Evan Longoria, Brandon Inge, Michael Young. Inge and Young add depth at multiple positions.<br /><br />Short Stop - Bartlett, Jeter. That's it, that's the list.<br /><br />Outfield - Curtis "Muhfuggin" Granderson, Jason "Sittin on the dock of the" Bay, Torrii "Catfish" Hunter, Adam Lind "ing tower of piza", Nick "Don't call me Mark" Markakis, Carl "Stole this name" Crawford.<br /><br />Utility - Ben Zobrist.<br /><br />Starters - Doc Halladay, Edwin Jackson, Justin Verlander, Josh Beckett, Zach Grienke, Felix Hernandez, Kevin Millwood, Mark Buerhle. Sorry, Wakefield your ERA is terrible.<br /><br />Relievers - Mariano Rivera, Andrew Bailey, Joe Nathan, Brian Fuentes.<br /><br />Line-up<br /><br />Granderson<br />Mauer<br />Hunter<br />Longoria<br />Morneau<br />Bay<br />Hill<br />Bartlett<br />Grienke<br /><br />NATIONAL LEAGUE<br /><br />Catcher - Brian McCann, Bengie Molina. McCann is the only deserving one.<br /><br />First Base - Albert Pujols, Adrian Gonzalez, Joey Votto. Sorry Prince no meat means no power.<br /><br />Second Base - Chase Utley, Freddy Sanchez. Brandon Phillips and Dan Uggla are all power no average.<br /><br />Third Base - David Wright, Ryan Zimmerman, Pablo Sandoval, Mark Reynolds. Too much talent at 3B.<br /><br />Short Stop - Hanley Ramirez, Miguel Tejada. The talent level in the NL is awful at multiple positions.<br /><br />Outfield - Raul Ibanez, Brad Hawpe, Ryan Braun, Adam Dunn, Andre Ethier, Michael Bourne, Justin Upton.<br /><br />Starters - Dan Haren, Tim Lincecum, Chad Billingsley, Javier Vazquez, Johan Santana, Adam Wainwright, Matt Cain, Yovani Gallardo.<br /><br />Relievers - Heath Bell, Francisco Rodriguez, Ryan Franklin, Jonathon Broxton.<br /><br />Line-up<br /><br />Hanley Ramirez<br />Raul Ibanez<br />Albert Pujols<br />Ryan Braun<br />Chase Utley<br />David Wright<br />Brian McCann<br />Brad Hawpe<br />Tim LincecumDascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-37303782074067337402009-06-16T11:44:00.000-07:002009-06-16T15:23:14.679-07:00Mock Draft: NBA 2009Los Angeles Clippers - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kPyjOjsnxU">Blake Griffin</a>, PF, Oklahoma. No real explanation needed, it's a position they don't need right now except for the youth and small contract. Expect to see <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxReKJ1POEw">Camby</a> (signed through 10) and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzUtQJ08emw">Kaman</a> (through 12) traded as soon as possible. I can't believe they are going to let Griffin hang out with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGmKsWtCPsE">Zach Randolph</a>, but they don't have much of a choice besides cutting him outright.<br /><br />Memphis Grizzlies - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_85pptRCvgM">Hasheem Thabeet</a>, C, UConn. They have a set <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNT00hIXjLs">point guard</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQuNAfIRI5A">shooting guard</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_H3Jow4IAE4">small forward</a>, so they need a big. I think he's fraudulent, he played in a great defensive system at UConn and will need more of an offensive game if he hopes to any good in the NBA. Memphis will pair him with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k-RAI8lsks">Marc Gasol </a>and ask them not to screw up the offense.<br /><br />Oklahoma City Thunder - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-OF8PmW5ZI">Jordan Hill,</a> PF, Arizona. The team needs either a big or a shooting guard so they could take James Harden here. I just don't know if they know what they are doing with Westbrook yet and Rubio doesn't want to be in OKC. This pick solidifies <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRJMuQ6MkrE">Jeff Green</a> as a 6th man, which might be perfect for him.<br /><br />Sacramento Kings - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xB_qbzGRXH4">Ricky Rubio</a>, PG, Spain. Remember <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-Vq-DO86RE">Jason Williams</a>? This kid is better and without the issues. Ricky was one of the main cogs on the Spain team that took the Redeem Team to the limit in '08. Pairing Rubio and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_D-a4hfnHI">Kevin Martin</a> in the backcourt is nice, right. The future is now in Sacramento, although keeping <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_prYSmzAjs">John Salmons</a> wouldn't have hurt.<br /><br />Washington Wizards - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBrSIIAEGno">James Harden,</a> SG, ASU. If they are committed to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1nriqX5jsI">Gilbert Arenas</a> as a point this pick is perfect for the new Wizards. Although, if they trade <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pn6cwGTYJA">Antwan Jamison</a> they will need a big and this pick could change. Harden was an odd player at ASU who could go games without enforcing his will on the other team, but his talent was very evident and should be a good pro for a long time.<br /><br />Minnesota Timberwolves - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmgIPGy0zOE">Johnny Flynn</a>, PG, Syracuse. It's either Flynn or Tyreke Evans and I'm guessing they choose Flynn. This moves Randy Foye to Shooting Guard or the bench but it's worth it to get Flynn. They are set at Power Forward and Center for as long as they keep re-signing <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z2sFmrR7bc">Kevin Love</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHXBzPGCvMg">Al Jefferson</a> so there isn't much of choice of positions as it's players.<br /><br />Golden State Warriors - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbInz4fujSQ">Tyrke Evans</a>, PG, Memphis. This forces a decision to be made on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rg0CoNaCyvs">Monta Ellis</a>. He either becomes a shooting guard or you trade him. Evans' size allows you to play him with Ellis but does Ellis want to a be a shooting guard? You could also just roll with Evans and Ellis in the backcourt with neither being assigned a position. This seems to be how Don Nelson would like to roll anyway.<br /><br />New York Knicks - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gunuFI-g_s">Stephen Curry</a>, PG, Davidson. He seems like the perfect point guard for Mike D'Antoni. He's a shooter or a passer, he can drive for a lay-up or an assist. He is basically <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trjJit37ucM">Steve Nash</a> 2.0. <br /><br />Toronto Raptors - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hehZQdVbG9I">Gerald Henderson</a>, SG, Duke. A team that will be rebuilding by 2010 if not earlier. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J8iCsZ-FEY">Jose Calderon</a> is set at the point but <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMvjmkv6j5M">Chris Bosh</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpSa6iFDwGc">Shawn Marion</a> could be traded by mid-season. Dejuan Blair could go here but I think that's a little early for the undersized (read short) power forward.<br /><br />Milwaukee Bucks - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTfwcYgNAN8">Jeff Teague</a>, G, Wake Forest. The best available player for a team that needs immediate help everywhere. They are good enough at every position but could be better everywhere as well. It's a very weird team.<br /><br />New Jersey Nets - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oxhwQseBzE">Demar Derozan</a>, SG, USC. P.O.T.E.N.T.I.A.L. Pairing him with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GL3l3_BIAHc">Devin Harris</a> in the backcourt could make the Nets respectable in a hurry. He has to become a better outside shooter but the Nets aren't in a rush.<br /><br />Charlotte Bobccats - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFR0ffKl0YU">Chase Budinger</a>, SG, Arizona. The athleticism you get when you pair <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuYNqalkDdI">Chase</a> with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4TK6jkYUc0">Gerald Wallace</a> is ridiculous. They need a shooting guard and a power forward so it's either Budinger or Dejuan Blair.<br /><br />Indiana Pacers - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YszIA_4kIZA">Wayne Ellington</a>, SG, UNC. A position of need along with power forward, so it's either Ellington or Blair. Unless a trade is made Ellington is a starter from day one and all he's done is win.<br /><br />Phoenix Suns - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxxqEKssvgI">Dejuan Blair</a>, PF, Pitt. Either he moves <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMW1UxQl_hU">Amare</a> to center of plays center himself. Which ever decision is made it helps Phoenix run and gun. He adds toughness to a team that needs it. Whichever small you plug into the system seems to work so adding a big that isn't too big is what should be done in the draft.<br /><br />Detroit Pistons - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XE6NuYu1Qz4">Eric Maynor</a>, PG, VCU. The <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BW8UmAk4g20">Rodney Stuckey</a> point guard experiment didn't work. It's either Maynor or Ty Lawson at this point and I hope they take Maynor. The Pistons are stuck with 4 players for 3 positions if they make this pick so look for a trade before the season, possibly Chris Bosh.<br /><br />Chicago Bulls - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBuUZIkuS9s">BJ Mullens</a>, C, Ohio State. When you don't know what to do, draft big. They need to replace Ben Gordon, he's not coming back, but there aren't any good 2's left. If they do a sign and trade they should get a shooting guard in return.<br /><br />Philadelphia 76ers - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJpqtynQOAM">Brandon Jennings</a>, PG, USA. He went to Europe instead of to college which could have turned out worse, I guess. He might not have got paid ever, instead of wasn't sure when he would get paid. They need an Andre Miller replacement and this kid is awesome, he shouldn't slip this far but if he does the 6ers will jump all over it.<br /><br />Minnesota Timberwolves - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lB4lTCAE5Fo">James Johnson</a>, SF, Wake Forest.<br /><br />Atlanta Hawks - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcSs-4l_v-Q">Ty Lawson</a>, PG, UNC. Acie "Law" Earl IV, isn't exactly working out. Either Ty or Earl Clark.<br /><br />Utah Jazz - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hb2k_6T4qw">Earl Clark</a>, SF, Louisville. They need a 2 or a 3 so a 6'10" small forward helps.<br /><br />New Orleans Hornets - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMz6LEizGVk">Tyler Hansborough</a>, PF, UNC. You know what you're getting with Tyler and it's a hard worker with actual game and he's NBA tall. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=No44DYCBKGE">Good at ping-pong too.</a><br /><br />Dallas Mavericks - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtWJJCV4Hso">Jrue Holiday</a>, PG, UCLA. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCHzhQJw6Zc">Jason Kidd</a> ain't lasting forever. <br /><br />Sacramento Kings - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH5b0nMl1gw">Terrence Williams</a>, SF, Louisville. This gives them an actual roster of starters. Crazy.<br /><br />Portland Trailblazers - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MF6AtI2dpA">Trade</a>. They package a player or two and add a veteran. Yes, I cheated.<br /><br />OKC - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5a48TSGognM">Darren Collison</a>, PG, UCLA. Back together and it feels so good. Re-united with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJUkr1xDiJs">Russel Westbrook</a> who it turns out is better then Darren.<br /><br />Chicago Bulls - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpcDzw8j9XM">Damion James</a>, PF, Texas. Why not.<br /><br />Memphis Grizzlies - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCb21az8VBM">Taj Gibson</a>, SF, USC. Is Rudy Gay good? Is Taj Gibson a starter? We'll find out.<br /><br />Minnesota Timberwolves -<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSe5gzsnNOo"> Omir Casspi</a>, PF, Israel. Why not?<br /><br />L.A. Lakers - Goran Suton, C, Michigan State. GUESSING!!!!!???<br /><br />Cleveland Cavs - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uedSTYlLfMM">Dajuan Summers</a>, SF, Georgetown. Everyone not named Lebron sucks on this team. Except for Mo Williams.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29220714.post-77665618368648377782009-06-04T17:43:00.000-07:002009-06-04T18:41:31.383-07:00NBA Finals PredictionBreak it down via position. Prediction at the end or on twitter 10 minutes ago.<br /><br />Point Guard- Derek Fisher versus Rafer Alston. Fish is to old for this game and it started showing against the Rockets in round two. Aaron Brooks ran circles around him and I think "Skip To My Lou" may do the same thing in this series. I hear good things about Fish in the locker room but I heard the same things about Lindsey Hunter and he hasn't started for anyone this century. Adavantage Orlando.<br /><br />Shooting Guard- Kobe Bryant versus Courtney Lee. Do I even need to break this down? Courtney is hoping to slow Kobe down that's it. Advantage Lakers.<br /><br />Small Forward- Trevor Ariza versus Rashard Lewis. Ariza was traded to LA from Orlando for nothing and that was a mistake. Rashard Lewis let Orlando bid against themselves to pay him a max contract, this has turned out to be worth it because they are in the finals. Rashard is the better player but sometimes tries to do to much. Ariza is not allowed to try to do to much because Kobe would stab him. Ariza knocks down threes and plays good defense. He's also an athletic freak. Rashard can play inside or out but is usually waiting for an open three when his man doubles Dwight. Rashard is also an athletic freak. Advantage Orlando.<br /><br />Power Forward- Pau Gasol versus Hedo Turkoglu. This is the best match-up of the starters but they are very different player. Pau plays at the elbow or lower and is looking to pass first I unless Kobe tells him to get points. Hero plays point forward at times, loves to hit a step back three as a clock expires. I think Hedo can guard Pau better then Pau can guard Hedo and Hedo will see Ariza try to guard him as well. Advantage Lakers, barely.<br /><br />Center- Andrew Bynum versus Dwight Howard. Not close, Kobe is still mad Bynum wasn't traded for Jason Kidd last year (he seems obsessed with old ass point guards that won't take his shots... Oh I get it). Bynum has gotten hurt the last two years and has not gotten better as quickly as LA would like, especially since they gave him a huge contract for no reason. Dwight Howard is the most athletic superstar not named Lebron James, this is good and bad. He hasn't developed a post up game but can out rebound anyone on either end. Bynum is going to get embarassed by Howard's athleticism. Advantage Orlando.<br /><br />Benches- Shannon Brown, Lamar Odom, Luke Walton, Sasha Vujacic versus Jameer Nelson, Mickael Pietrus, Marcin Gortat and Tony Battie. Lamar Odom should be starting over Bynum because the match-ups are better and he is a better player. Shannon Brown is one of the toughest Lakers and was only brought in so the Lakers could dump Radmanovics contract on Charlotte. Have the Bobcats met a terrible contract that they haven't liked? Jameer Nelson has been out since February and anything he gives Orlando is a bonus, Pietrus needs to play defense and hit threes. Advantage LA but it's closer then it looks.<br /><br />Coaching- Phil Jackson versus Stan Van. Phil Jackson has 9 rings. Pat Riley took over the Heat because he didn't trust Stan to win the championship that the refs eventually gave to Dwyane Wade. Advantage LA.<br /><br />I don't think the match-ups are good for LA but the coaching is big because Stan Van hates making adjustments. Luckily for him I think the adjustments will have to be made by LA in this series. And I just saw that Orlando is putting Lewis on Gasol which seems stupid to me.<br /><br />I'm picking Orlando in 5 games and Kobe doesn't win another championship as the top guy on a squad.<br /><br />Wrote this on my Iphone, sorry it looks bad.Dascenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12458070628821600189noreply@blogger.com0