 Sunday, December 31, 2006
Ultimate Fighting Championship 66 - Liddell versus Ortiz 2
In keeping with the fighting spirit of recent posts, my friend PG (from the Knicks-Nuggets game) invited me over to his buddy Mike's place on the Upper West Side for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 66 Saturday night. UFC 66 features the Light Heavyweight Championship, featuring a rematch between champion Chuck "The Ice Man" Liddell and Tito Ortiz. The Light Heavyweight division is for fighters 205 pounds and below.
Ultimate Fighting is often misunderstood as barbaric free-for-alls and is banned in many states, including New York.
After watching WWE wrestling on Monday night's on Spike TV a few years ago, the Tank was first exposed to the Ultimate Fighting reality show where contestants competed for the right to be the next "Ultimate Fighter". Like every other "reality show", the contestants lived in this unbelievably nice mansion that no regular person, much less an aspiring fighter would live in.
Anyway, enough Hollywood. Ultimate Fighting is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) where fighters from different fighting backgrounds (wrestling, boxing, jiu-jitsu, karate, judo, etc.) compete in a high Octagon in three five minute rounds except for the champion fight which is five rounds. MMA appeals to the Tank because it's great to see a wrestler compete against a boxer or a martial artist and vis-versa. Some fighters try to grapple (wrestle) on the ground while others try to fight standing up. Which fight style is the best? Regardless of which style or fighter is the best, these are incredible athletes.
During the 2005 Great Wall Marathon in China, the Tank met Gary from Vegas who trains UFC athletes. Gary finished the Boston Marathon in about 2 hours 12 minutes about 23 years ago. Both Gary and the athletes he trains are well conditioned. Like Amateur Female Jello Wrestling which is real as witnessed and blogged by the Tank, UFC has made inroads because professional wrestling is scripted, boxing is still a mess but getting better and UFC is in not as violent as P.R.I.D.E. in Japan (super ouch and even bloodier) or Muay Thai (take your life into your own hands stepping into the ring). UFC has rules and is regulated by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Before we get to the main event, there are several good under cards including (1) Andre "The Pit Bull" Arlovski of Belarus and now residing in Chicago. Arlovski uses a mouthguard shaped as fangs to get a psychological advantage on his opponent. It works and Arlovski beats Marcio Cruz.
In between bouts, the camera pans to Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi sitting at ringside as Agassi has a home in Vegas. Steffi looks scared.
Other noteable matches include (2) Jason "The Athlete" MacDonald of Canada beating Chris Leben by putting him in a guillotine hold. Chris Leben couldn't tap out. Leben is very candid in his post match commentary. Question: "How do you feel?" Answer: Unprintable. More celebrity sightings include actor Chris Angel and musician Kid Rock. (3) "The Dean of Mean" Keith Jardine TKOed Forrest Griffin. I felt bad for Griffin who fought a good fight and was crying after the fight. He said he'll be back. Good luck! (4) Thiago "The PitBull" Alves of Brazil (now Florida) beats Tony DeSouza of Peru. His shirt says "I am not a grappler. I am not a striker. I am both." (5) The main event features Chuck "The Ice Man" Liddell versus Tito Ortiz versus Chuck Liddell. They are former friends and training partners. PG informs me that Ortiz is dating actress Jenna Jameson. As Rod Stewart sings, "Some guys have all the luck". Ortiz comes out with a two sided Mexican and American flag to one of Eminem's hits. Ortiz is psyched while Liddell is relaxed. Bruce Buffer, brother of boxing announcer Michael "Let's Get Ready To Rumble" Buffer, is the UFC announcer. PG predicts an Ortiz win to setup Ortiz-Liddell 3. Ortiz submission versus Liddell. The online voting leading up to the event ends 51-49 in favor of Liddell. It is scheduled for five, 5 minute rounds. They size each other up but Liddell quickly gets down to business as causes Ortiz to bleed over his right eye. Liddell is defining the territory of the Octagon well and limiting Ortiz's movement. Liddell knocks Ortiz down toward the end of the first round and the ref should have the called the match. However, the first round is scored 10-9 in favor of Liddell. Ortiz kept the points close because he connected and scored on body kicks. To start the second round, the crowd cheers "Chuck" for Liddell. Ortiz connects on some body kicks but Liddell counters with punches. Ortiz shoots for Liddell's legs but he is too far out to get him on the mat. Ortiz tries again and succeeds in getting Liddell unto the mat. Liddell somehow gets out of the hold and off the mat. Unbelievable! Commentator Eddie Bravo scored Round 2 10-9 in favor of Ortiz because he scored on the leg kicks. Therefore, the fight is even on the card as we enter Round 3. Ortiz gets knocked down but Liddell waves him up. Liddell then puts together overhand and underhand combinations to win by TKO in 3:59 of the third round. PG, Mike, Drago, Gary, and The Tank celebrate Liddell's victory. In unique upstart and cool fashion, Liddell announces that his after party is at "Studio 54" in Vegas. Liddell also promotes the upcoming " 300" movie which the Tank is looking forward to March 2007. Ortiz thanks everyone including the troops serving overseas. His after party is at Jag in Vegas. How many boxers or wrestlers announce their after parties on air?
Until next time, this is the Tank reporting UFC 66 from Mike's place on the Upper West Side in Manhattan. Keep fighting the good fight inside and outside the ring in 2007. Happy and Healthy New Year to all!
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Getting Off The Canvas
Steve and The Tank took a few punches to the chin this past week.
(1) Barry Zito signing with the Giants was a huge blow to Steve and I had to talk him off the ledge again. It was a huge shock to the Tank because Zito signed much earlier than he thought he would. However, Super Mega Sports Agent Scott Boras played the Yankees, Mets, Rangers, Mariners, and anyone else he could have found against each other to get the Giants to offer him the richest contract for a pitcher ever.
(2) The Tank was knocked to the canvas once again as he lost someone he cares deeply about. No, it wasn't President Ford who was historically important but the Tank lost someone even more special and important. Steve returned the favor and talked me off the ledge.
To quote the Philadelphia Poet Rocky Balboa, "It's not how hard you've been hit by life, it's how hard you hit back!" After some blood, sweat, and tears like in Rocky, Steve and the Tank cheered each other up and accomplished a great deal this week. For instance, Steve did a great job upgrading the website. The Tank has been fighting the good fight against YouTube's copyright department after they pulled our global exclusive Knicks-Nuggets video from inside Madison Square Garden. I can't divulge all the details at the present time but the Tank is fighting for equal treatment under the law while others with less intellectual property standing show their videos freely without harrassment.
To quote the great country signer Toby Keith, we were sucker punched this past week. Steve And The Tank have gotten off the canvas, answered the bell, and will keep fighting for you in 2007 and beyond. "Fall Down 7 Times, Get Up 8!"
Posted by The Tank in NY.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Remembering President Ford; NFL Week 17 Picks
President Gerald Ford passed earlier this week at 93. President Ford was the 38th President and may not be remembered by historians as one of the greatest presidents but he got America through a very difficult post-Watergate and Vietnam period. The Tank doesn't remember President Ford's Administration well but does remember his Dad slamming the newspaper down on the kitchen table in disgust after President Ford fell short in a late rally against Jimmy Carter in the 1976 Election.
The Tank admires President Ford for his contribution to America and football. He was real Old School and a two-time National Champion at Michigan. He played without a helmet. If everyone did, there would be fewer injuries from a metal helmet on a body (even with pads). Ouch! The Tank may not get this essential reform passed in the near future but he has made progress in his 20 year campaign against astroturf. If I ever run for office, the Tank maybe assassinated by football helmet manufacturers but thanked by future players and honored by historians. The health of the players and the betterment of the game will be part of my legacy. 
His address at the 1974 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshirement shows the class gentleman that he was and his impact on the country and game. It was less than two weeks before he took over for President Nixon. (Speaking of President Nixon, I misspoke at Linda's great Holiday party this past Saturday in response to a question from "White Fedora" Mike. America went off the gold standard on August 15, 1971, not August 15, 1973. My apologies to WFM and others in attendance for the error in the year but not the date. However, the Tank does not apologize for his advocacy of a return to gold standard and real money in this dated but excellent article.)
R.I.P. President Ford.
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Last call for the NFL regular season. The Tank was 9-6 in his picks, touch wood. I excluded the Giants-Saints game out of protest which I continue this week. I felt even better when Vegas pro Brandon Lang avoided the game on Stephen A. Smith's ESPN 1050 AM radio show last Friday.
For new readers, my picks are designed for you to win the highest number of games in your office pool which are normally predicated on wins and losses, NOT the Vegas line. Unlike Lang who is an excellent analyst, I do not bet Vegas lines because they are subject to change and Vegas knows more than everyone except God. Furthermore, Vegas lines are designed for the "vig" or the balance of the betting money which is why you see ridiculous double-digit lines to get people to take chances and care about potential blowouts. Whereas, I want you to win your office pool and be the talk of your office.
Remember, bet within your limits, past performance is not indicative of future results (mutual fund speak legalese disclaimer), and have fun. The predicted winning team is in bold.
There are five 7-8 NFC teams fighting for the last wild card spot including the Giants with the various permutations and combinations for all teams.
Lock:
The Jets win against the Raiders and they are going to the playoffs. Yes, the Raiders are playing for pride and their jobs (Art Shell included) but are at the Meadowlands. Take the Jets.
The Cowboys are playing for NFC East against the rudderless Lions.
The Chargers are at home against the improving Cardinals.
Should Win:
A Ravens win against the Bills and they clinch a week off.
The Colts are playing for playoff seeding and are at home against Dolphins.
The Chiefs are at home against the Jaguars.
The Saints host the disappointing but still playoff eligible 7-8 Panthers.
The Eagles host the inconsistent but still playoff eligible 7-8 Falcons.
The Titans are at home against the Patriots. Who would have thought at the beginning of the season they had a chance to make the playoffs? The Patriots should dash those hopes.
The Broncos are at home and need to beat the 49ers to make the playoffs.
The still playoff eligible 7-8 Rams play at the Vikings.
Avoid:
The Bengals are at the Steelers. The Steelers are playing for pride in possibly Coach Bill Cowher's last game but the Bengals need to win and get some help to win to make the playoffs.
The improving Texans are at home against the Browns.
The Bears hosting the still playoff eligible 7-8 Packers. Expect Brett Favre to go down swinging in what might be his last game.
The Buccaneers host the Seahawks. The Seahawks might rest some guys because they have made the playoffs but have a first round game instead of a bye because they choked down the stretch. Watch, choke-artist Seahawks prove me wrong.
Protest:
The still playoff eligible 7-8 Giants at the Redskins on Saturday night. Does anyone care anymore? The Giants don't appear to. The Tank's protest against the Giants continues.
Posted by The Tank in NY. Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Medford Bob Says...
You have often heard me refer to friend and co-worker Medford Bob. Medford Bob is one of my few friends who can give Linda a run for her money in the sarcasm department. For as much as I enjoyed hearing and writing about "Jon Stewart throws like a girl" and other Mets issues from Linda, Medford Bob yells at me whenever Randy "Keep 'Em Close" Johnson pitches. It gets better. After I leave work, I get 3 a.m. calls from Robert in Tampa venting about any and all Yankee games from the past 40 years. Like I am responsible? I am not George Steinbrenner or Brian Cashman. I would if I could but I can't so I won't.
You should no longer wonder why I write a great deal to keep whatever little sanity I have left. If writing could only help my hair loss or love life…
Enough about me for now, here's the first but hopefully not the last "Medford Bob Says…"
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"Medford Bob Says..."
A few thoughts on baseball..Gil Meche? 55 million dollars? Props to KC. Looks like they're serious about competing with the Toledo Mud Hens this year.
Is Brian Cashman just getting better or what! It's like he's playing moneyball with a huge budget. I like the way he has been stockpiling young pitching while solidifying the team and not panicking by overpaying mediocre free agents. Except for a backup catcher, this team is solid.
And any Red Sox fans that think their rotation with Deemat (is that slang for something to clean your shoes on?) will outclass the Bombers are still living in fantasyland. Barring injury (and if the Yanks, God willing, get rid of "Keep 'em close Randy") do you really want to put your rotation against Mussina, Pettite, Wang, Igawa and probably Phillip Hughes? Yeah I know there's been talk about getting Barry Zito but he sucks against the American League East and will probably end up with the Mets as they will bid through the roof as they need him more. (will Pedro ever pitch again? And the only people afraid of the Mets starting rotation as it stands is, the Mets. And speaking of the Mets, all I can say is, Moises Alou? Let my people go! ) J.D. Drew? Puuleeez! Cards traded him to Atlanta who let him go as a free agent. Guy makes Ricky Henderson and his hammy look like a WWII Marine storming Iwo Jima. Boston fans will LOVE him. Like they love Coco Crisp.
But you gotta give Theo props for the moves he has made. Sox may have finished behind Baltimore and Toronto if he hadn't stepped up. More than an overpriced Japanese import (let's reserve judgment on Cy Young San until the third time he goes through the league and faces major leaguers who haven't had just 2 weeks of pickup games) he's made some nice moves to solidify the team. But they are still not good enough to overcome da Bombers. (having the Sox win ONCE in 86 years made them think they actually have a chance but it is accepted in the scientific community that if you put a monkey into a room with a watch in pieces, EVENTUALLY the monkey will put it back together) Let’s face it. Red Sox nation is just a third world country on cheap steroids ("doesn't everyone have an arm growing out their ear?").
The Cubs, the Cubs the Cubs. It's like watching a drunken uncle who hit the lottery and has no money skills. Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis and Wade Miller. And pray for rain. No really. But only on the days they're supposed to pitch. Soriano has become the new A-Rod? Gonna have him bat leadoff so Juan Pierre can strike out leaving him on base.
Cardinals are right now going into the spring with Chris Carpenter and 4 guys named Moe. But Walt Jocketty will somehow figure all this out because anyone who watches the Cards knows you don't bet against Walt. NL central looks like the weak sister again this year.And that’s great for St. Louis. Because they're the best fans in America. Just ask them. They'll tell you. Best fans in America. It's true. They took a poll in the old Busch Stadium. And St. Louis came out on top. Go figure.
I just saw Happy Feet. It made me………………Happy.
Till next time, this is Medford Bob Says...
Introduced and posted by The Tank and Written by Medford Bob in NY.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
5 Reasons why the Mets need to sign Barry Zito
- 211. That is the average number of innings Zito gives you a year. Last year Glavine gave the Mets 198, el Duque 162, Pedro 132 and Maine 90. With the back end of the rotation not solidified yet and Pedro’s status in doubt you need to add someone dependable to the staff that can give you 200+ innings a year. Zito is your man.
- 37. That is the average age of Glavine, el Duque and Pedro. Zito is 28. The Mets’ front of the rotation is filled with old guys who have won a Cy Young, pitched in the playoffs and can pitch on the NY stage. Then now need a young Cy Young winner with tremendous amount of playoff experience. Zito is your man.
- 22. That is the amount of major league victories Scott Kazmir has. Mets fans are still irrationally bitter. Steve Philips did make that bad trade, but he was run out of town because of it. I was trying to enjoy the best Mets’ season in 18 years and my friends could only say all summer long “Imagine if Kazmir was on the team” like a broken record. When the Mets went into the playoffs with the bad news bears pitching rotation I actually started to think that maybe the psychos had a point. The Mets need a young stuff pitcher who can exercise the Kazmir ghost. Zito is your man.
- 21. That is the number of years since the Mets won a world series. I have always said “Pitching wins pennants.” The Cardinals outlasted the Mets because their pitching shut down the Mets hitting. Zito is your man.
- 0. The number of quality starters out on the market left. With Soup signed and Dontrelle in jail for DWI, Lastings Millage’s stock down, Zito is your man.
Posted by Steve in New York.
The Boras That Stole Christmas
Christmas came and went without the signing of Scott Boras' superstar free agent client, Barry Zito. Mets fans like Steve, Linda, her Mom, and others will have to wait a little longer than hoped.
Here's why: Boras is notorious at getting and maintaining leverage for his clients. Just ask the Red Sox. As their plane was going back to Boston, Boras was still negotiating Matsuzaka's terms with Red Sox GM Theo Epstein. By the end of the negotiations, Epstein aged about ten years and looked as though he had seen a ghost. He did, it was Scott Boras, the Ghost of Free Agent Greed.
Where Do We Go From Here: Expect Boras to tighten the screws even harder on the Mets, Rangers, and other Zito suitors. That's his job and he does it better than anyone else in the world.
I don't even expect Zito to be signed by Old Calendar Christmas, January 7. I expect Zito to be signed as close as possible to Pitchers and Catchers which is just after my least favorite "holiday", "Saint" Valentine's Day. Expect more from the Tank as we get closer to February 14.
Anyway, enough about "Hallmark Holidays" and let's get down to the important stuff. I give the Mets the edge for the following reasons:
(1) They are a contender as the Rangers are not quite there yet. The Mets were one strike from the World Series and the Rangers didn't even make the playoffs.
(2) Zito will be reunited with his former pitching coach, Rick Peterson. Shea Stadium is much more pitcher friendly than the Launching Pad at Arlington.
(3) Texas has an 11 percent state income tax edge as NY has 7 percent state and 4 percent local tax. However, Zito will be able to up the difference in endorsements in the nation's biggest media market.
Word to the wise Mets fan: Be patient and keep the faith. Boras wants top dollar but he is not foolish enough to walk away from a "bad" deal that makes him and Zito millions. If Omar Minaya makes a competitive offer, Zito will most likely sign with the Mets.
Posted by The Tank in NY.
Monday, December 25, 2006
The Most Wonderful Week of the Year
I hope everyone is enjoying this unseasonably warm (in NY) but great Holiday season.
If you love college football, this is the best week of the year. There are so many bowl games sponsored by various companies. Though not a marquee game like the upcoming BCS Champion Game on January 8, The Tank listened to Hawaii beat Arizona State 41-24 in the Hawaii Bowl on the radio last night before going to taking a three hour nap and going to work. The Tank observes Julian/Old Calendar Eastern Orthodox Christmas on January 7 as there is a 13 day difference between the Calendars. I am covering for my IT network colleagues who observe Gregorian/New Calendar Christmas. The Internet and networking is 24/7/365-6 and if the network takes a nap (God Forbid), then we're in trouble regardless of if and when we observe Christmas.
Merry Christmas! / Happy Hanukah! / Happy Kwanzaa! / Happy Ramadan! / Happy Winter Solstice! / Apologies to others' Holidays I may have forgotten!
Best wishes to you and yours for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!
Posted by The Tank in NY.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Rocky Balboa
The Tank's old college buddy, Dino The Greek, sent him a welcome surprise e-mail about the opening night of the sixth installment of "Rocky" this past Wednesday, December 20.
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"Rocky Balboa AKA Rocky VI----phenomenal!!!!!
The ending was good. This movie ended the sequel on a high note. Thank God Sylvester Stallone made this movie or else the series would have ended on Rocky V.
The Theater was packed. People clapped screamed and cheered during the fight and clapped at the end of the movie. The ending was not predictable but if you are a diehard fan of the Rocky movies it would have made sense. Without spoiling the movie, contrary to rumors-Rocky did not die in this movie after the fight. Sylvester Stallone made this movie for the diehard fan of Rocky movies. Original music, fight match scene, training scene. Same type of beginning except and thank God for this they did not do a replay of what happened during the previous movie because Rocky V did not have much.
If you are a Rocky fan this is a must."
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The Tank Reflects on Dino's Review: I usually don't see movies opening weekend but Dino's review compelled me to watch it. I wrote notes but won't ruin it for you. As clips from previous movies showed, I reflected on priceless memories of watching previous "Rocky" installments with friends and family. Probably the most memorable was my then 11 year old brother and I (12 at the time) cheering on the Hulkster as "Thunderlips" in "Rocky II". This is the only time I didn't cheer for Rocky. The 17 year old usher tried to keep us quiet but we glared at him and he took his flashlight and quickly retreated to the back of the theater.
The magic of the "Rocky" movies is to fight back when you feel down and out. To quote the Philadelphia Poet, "It's not how hard you've been hit by life, it's how hard you hit back!"
Posted by The Tank fighting the good fight with guest review from Dino The Greek in NY. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Worse Than Isiah
This past week marked the third anniversary (observance in mourning for most) of Isiah Thomas' reign with the Knicks. Though exciting at times, it has been a painful most of the time as Zeke has taken on huge expiring contracts of "stars" past their prime. The list is too long for me to write and you to read as the Knicks are paying $62 million to five players not even on the roster anymore.
Since Mr. Dolan has given Isiah through the rest of the season to make progress, the Tank is forced to use reverse psychology to uplift himself and others. For instance, who could be worse than Isiah? The Tank thought long and hard and lost lots of sleep. The nominees are:
(1) Detroit Lions President Matt Millen. Like Isiah, Matt was a great player but a lousy executive. Though a different sport, the Lions are even worse than the Knicks. Is Matt blackmailing Lions ownership into keeping his job? Is the Lions ownership too cheap to buy out his contract?
(2) Past and current Tampa D-Rays ownership. While crying that they can't be competitive, past and current owners Vince Namoli and Bruce Sternberg, respectively, are gladly taking the Yankees luxury tax money but NOT reinvesting it in their team. D-Rays fans like Buffalo Robert and Detroit Dale are furious.
(3) Current Florida Marlins owner Jeffrey H. Loria. Mr. Loria is a NY art dealer who made a killing when he sold the Expos to MLB and then bought the Marlins to Mr. John Henry who went on to buy the Red. The Marlins payroll is slightly lower than the D-Rays. What about the luxury tax money Mr. Loria is pocketing? Can't Mr. Loria sell anymore art at his NY gallery to pay his players more?
Remember, if you are ever down and out as a sports fan, there is someone worse off than you.
Posted by the Tank in NY.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Brooklyn Nets Thank You Letter
After the Tank called on New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver to ensure that his delgate approved the Atlantic Yards project and thus the Nets move to Brooklyn, the Tank received a thank you letter from the New Jersey Nets that he would like to share with you. It appears in quotes below.
"Dear (The Tank's Given Name -- not YET updated on my credit card, driver's license, or voting records),
Today (Wednesday) marks a watershed day in the history of the Nets organization as the Public Authorities Control Board of New York voted to approve the construction of the Atlantic Yards development project, including a state-of-the art Frank Gehry-designed arena for the Nets in Brooklyn scheduled to open for the 2009-10 NBA season. We understand that along with the excitement of this news, there may be some questions and concerns for our fans.
First, it is important for you to know that Bruce Ratner, Rod Thorn, myself and the entire organization are fully committed to giving you a first-class product, not only with the team on the court, but also with extensive enhancements that have been and will continue to be made at Continental Airlines Arena.
Next, we intend to do everything possible to maintain our relationship with all of you when we move to Brooklyn. In the coming weeks and months you will be hearing about various opportunities to increase your priority level to select seats at the arena in Brooklyn.
While seating priority will likely be a question raised by many of our fans pertaining to the Brooklyn move, there are also other issues which we have addressed and presented conveniently online. Simply click here to review the answers to several "Frequently Asked Questions". Additionally, we will be keeping you informed in a variety of ways as new information is available. If you would like to receive information in the future specifically pertaining to tickets, events and other news about our move to Brooklyn, please refer to the "Bring It To Brooklyn Subscription" box below.
Thank you for your support and for being a valued fan. We look forward to sharing this exciting new chapter of Nets Basketball with you.
Sincerely,
Brett Yormark
President & CEO
Nets Sports & Entertainment
|
BRING IT TO BROOKLYN SUBSCRIPTION |
We are pleased to announce the "Bring It To Brooklyn" e-newsletter featuring information specific to the Atlantic Yards development project. By opting-in for this subscription you'll be one of the first to receive the latest updates on arena construction, tickets, special events and more. You'll also get exclusive photos and information as the different phases of the development are completed."
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The Tank's Response:
Dear Brett,
I am glad that www.SteveAndTheTank.com and our awesome readers encouraged Mr. Silver and his delegate to do the right thing to help bring the Nets back home to New York.
Best wishes to you, your, and the soon to be BROOKLYN Nets family for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season.
Sincerely,
The Tank
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Posted by an excited Tank in NY who is grateful to the best readers in the world for helping make the sports world a better place to live in. Happy Holidays!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Week 16 NFL Picks
We are hitting the home stretch of the regular season. The Tank was 11-5 in his picks last week, touch wood.
For new readers, my picks are designed for you to win the highest number of games in your office pool. I do not bet Vegas lines because they are subject to change and Vegas knows more than everyone except God. Bet within your limits. The predicted winning team is in bold.
Locks:
Da Bears shake off last week's near defeat and beat the Lions.
The Colts must and do bounce back against the Texans.
The Vikings are starting a rookie quarterback at Lambeau Field. This could be Brett Favre's last home game in Green Bay so take the Packers.
Should Win:
The Chiefs need a win at the Raiders to help any slim hope of making the playoffs.
The Rams should beat the inconsistent Redskins.
The Patriots should win at the Jaguars who need the win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
The improving Browns beat the Buccanneers who are playing on the road for the third week in a row and in the cold. Not good.
The 49ers just get by the improving Cardinals.
The Seahawks choked last week and will get beat by the visiting Chargers.
The Jets are going to have a dogfight on their hands at the Dolphins on Christmas Night.
The Cowboys should beat Jeff Garcia and the surging Eagles.
Avoid Picking:
The Falcons are coming off at loss and need a win at home against the disappointing Panthers.
The Bills host the surging Titans who are hopefully due for a loss in Buffalo. Go Bills!
The Steelers are at home and playing for pride but have to beat the Ravens.
The Bengals are the better team but have to win at the Broncos who need the win to stay in the playoff hunt.
Protest:
The Giants choked again last week and they greatly disappointed me. I am protesting their games for the remainder of the regular season. In fact, I may go to the game with a Reggie Bush jersey that I recently purchased at Modells's to root on America's New Team, the Saints. Go Saints!
Posted by The Tank in NY.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Rangers Ticket Cancellation Line
The Rangers hosted the New Jersey D*vils at the Garden on Sunday evening the 17th. Steve was at his Mom's house so the Tank is flying solo on this one. The plan was to get a ticket and meet my friends, Moonbeam and Chris, inside the Garden during intermission. Moonbeam and Chris bought their tickets months in advance and the Tank wasn't sure about his nor Steve's status until Sunday. After the Rangers 9-2 loss at Toronto on Saturday night, they needed to bounce back. The great Martin Brodeur is in goal for the D*vils. The Tank flashed the index finger in the air. A scalper replied $160 per ticket and the Tank kept walking. I asked other people but they didn't have them either or charging more. The Tank started making his way toward the ticket window. However, a ticket usher asked me to go to the Rangers Cancellation Line which is right next to the Borders bookstore. The Tank compiled with his request because there were better odds of getting tickets. Two mature ladies from Colorado were standing behind me and asked me what was going on and I explained. They caught a musical Saturday night. I told them that they should have seen the Nuggets-Knicks Game last night to watch their own home state Nuggets and then try to catch the musical today. Saturday is the toughest day to catch Broadway shows so they should have switched days. BTW, PermaGuest Jack recommended "Avenue Q". The way the Knicks season is going, the Tank is going to need to listen to the music of ABBA in "Mama Mia" to cheer him up. ABBA and/or painkillers to get him through the Knicks season. As the Tank could not vouch for the creditability of the Scalper who dropped his prices from $160 per ticket to $75 and then to $50, the Tank watched out to make sure Colorado Ladies weren't ripped off or mugged. They decided against the Scalper's tickets and followed me to the Ticket Booth. For $74.50 per ticket, I better be getting the Club 200 treatment like Rangers fan and New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Mr. Silver did not return my call for a constituent ticket request probably because we are opposite sides of the aisle. For instance, Mr. Silver voted against the West Side Stadium and the Tank favored it because he wants the Super Bowl, convention business, more concerts, and jobs for New York, NOT other states, especially New Jersey. (Sorry, Kathleen, I have let go of almost all of my anti-Jersey feelings go but I will continue to fight for the hard working people of New York.) The Tank wants the Nets in Brooklyn and one of Mr. Silver's delegates is due to vote against the project today, Wednesday, December 20. The Tank favors competition and Mr. Silver has sadly sided with the monopolistic Cablevision empire which has its tentacles in every aspect of New York sports and politics. This is unfortunately because it is a great opportunity to bring a sports franchise BACK to New York where it belongs, unlike the traitorous Dodgers, baseball and football Giants, and Jets. It creates jobs for New Yorkers, generates tax revenue, and makes Brooklyn an even better place to be. Regardless of what the NIMBYites in Brooklyn says, it's a stadium and kick arse housing and shopping development concept, NOT a nuclear power plant. Please change your mind Mr. Silver. Knicks fans will continue to suffer until their fans don't have to schlep to the Meadowlands and watch the Nets play there. Only then, will the competitive fires be lit under the Knicks. The rivalries between the Mets-Yankees make each team better because they not only compete against the division and league rivals, but also with their cross-town rivals.
Needless to say, after waiting in the Rangers Ticket Cancellation Line for a while, there were only two minutes left in the first period and the Tank wasn't going to pay $74.50 for a ticket. I walked to a nearby Seventh Avenue bar, which was until recently a Hallmark store, and watched the game. Patrik Elias scored in the 19th minute to give the D*vils the 1-0 lead at end of the first period. According to MSG TV, D*vils star Scott Gomez is playing in his 500th game. Jamie Langenbrunner scored the D*vils second goal at 13:18 to put them up 2-0 on their second power play ago. A moment later, Prucha gets one back on the assist from Jagr and the D*vils lead cut to 2-1. Weekes let another one in at 9:48 and the D*vils lead 3-1. The action is fast and furious as last season's rules changes have accelerated the game. A fight breaks out between Hol lweg and Hale and they both get five minute penalties. This is the kind of fighting that the Garden is accustomed to. The Rangers get the power play but can't convert. Parise called for roughing late in the second period. The D*vils lead 3-1 at the end of the second period. The Rangers try to attack the goal early in the 3rd period but Brodeur is equal to the task. The D*vils counter and Brylin gets his second goal of the game. D*vils 4-Rangers 1. A guy behind me yells me at the TV and says that Lundqvist is out injured with a sunburn on his neck (from the goal light going off behind him last night in the 9-2 loss). The D*vils add two more late goals from Elias (his second) and Parise and lead 6-1. LaDainian Tomlinson scores another touchdown for the Chargers as I watched the Chargers-Chiefs game on another TV on the wall. He has more touchdowns than the Rangers have goals. The Rangers are unable to muster anything on offense and lose the game 6-1.
On the bright side, I met up with Moonbeam and Chris after the game. We took the D train back to Brooklyn. They shared a funny story about Moonbeam's friend and co-worker San Diego Rich who was going to do a background check on Chris before he married Moonbeam. Opposites attracted as Moonbeam is a Rangers fan and Chris is a D*vils fan. As soon as they stop arguing over all the details of whether Chris is from Minneapolis or Saint Paul (the Tank tried to mediate a "Twin Cities" compromise to their story), the Tank will share their story . Posted by the Tank in NY.
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 Wednesday, December 20, 2006 3:58:14 AM (Eastern Standard Time, UTC-05:00)
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Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Knicks-Nuggets Fight: The Tank's Video
Watch the video here. Since Google purchased YouTube, they are pulling videos posted by those with footage from ESPN, MSG, etc. by those who don't own the ESPN, MSG, etc. copyrights. However, the SATT footage was shot on the Tank's Canon digital camera-and we own that copyright. :)
If you want to complain about the video not being still, write a letter to Canon.
Monday, December 18, 2006
PermaGuest Jack's Knicks-Nuggets Editorial
Moments after the Knicks-Nuggets Brawl, PermaGuest Jack e-mailed Steve and myself. His thoughts were so insightful that I asked him to write a guest column. His comments are as follows:
Now as you may or may not know I'm not a big basketball fan, though Michelle is getting me into College ball. But that said, I do pay attention in the cursory sense. But you just don't really need to follow the NBA to be disgusted with this latest fiasco. To summarize from what I've read and heard in the news, the Knicks were losing pretty badly yet again, and because the Nuggets had their Starters on the court with 1:15 left and a 19-point lead. So what? Yeah, maybe that's a bit overkill, but so what? Should they have sat them and given the Knicks a chance to come back and win? Um No. Last I checked, this was not a friendly neighborhood game (though an argument can be made for the lack of those too), but a Professional Game, between two Professional teams who are PAID to win. Not lose.
What's even more disgusting than the lack of good sportsmanship and professionalism shown by the Knicks was that of their Head Coach, Isiah Thomas. I quote the comments he said he made to Denver's Carmelo Anthony from the SportsIllustrated.com article I emailed you yesterday. "I just said to him, 'You know, you're up 20, you're up 19 with a minute and half to go, you and (Marcus) Camby really shouldn't be in the game right now,"' Thomas said. "We had surrendered, those guys shouldn't even be in the game at that point in time."
YOU SURRENDERED?! At what point? The half?! Yeah I know, you feel like you have no chance with that little time left to come back, but you keep going. I know it's not the same, but this season in my dart league, we got bumped up a division and been losing. Every Leg (game) counts as 1 point. And we've played every game with all our heart and tried our best, but we're playing in a tougher division and it's to be expected. The score doesn't really reflect the overall effort. And we were mathematically eliminated from the playoffs (first time in 4 seasons!) a couple of weeks ago but we are still playing every single game of every single match like we need it.
How much do you want to bet this will somehow be tied back to Larry Brown, who is the scapegoat for all the wrong the Knicks have done last season and this. Oh wait! He already is being blamed, since he's good friends with Nuggets head coach George Karl! Honestly what I think it comes down to, is that they had this all planned out. They brought Larry Brown back and set him up for failure by not putting the full faith of the organization behind him during the past season. This, in my opinion, was done in order to bring Isiah "The Megalomaniac" Thomas back to the court. The man is an embarrassment. Remember the sexual harassment and hostile work environment claims made against him in the past? How much do you want to bet there was a good deal of truth to it?
All I can say is that these "professionals" and I use this term loosely, have disgraced themselves. Their respective organizations and the sport. This could all segue right into a whole other topic. The "Thug Attitude" which is prevalent in the NBA and to an extent the NFL (wanna talk about T.O. spitting on Falcons Cornerback DeAngelo Hall?). The NBA has way too many High Schoolers given HUGE Monetary contracts acting like babies. I think the penalties should be very heavy.
Written by PermaGuest Jack and Posted by the Tank in NY.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Trying to Find the Silver Lining the Day After the Knicks-Nuggets Brawl
The Tank had prepared a post for Saturday night's Knicks-Nuggets game. However, the fight at the end of the game changed everything.
Though the Knicks lost, the game wasn't all fisticuffs and had some bright spots and I wanted to share them with you.
As my friend PG and I walked into the Garden, we saw two young ladies buying jerseys including a Stephon Marbury. The Tank asked PG: "Who would buy a Stephon Marbury jersey? Is this young person being setup for a life of disappointment? Should the Tank intervene and advise her to
buy another jersey of someone who plays hard every night like Nate Robinson or Derek Lee?"
PG replied: "She probably a tourist."
The Tank: "OK, let's get our tickets."
I walk up to the Will Call line and the attendant asks, "Annie or the Knicks?". Annie is playing at the Theatre at Madison Square Garden.
The Tank: "The Knicks."
Attendant: "You have to go to the other line."
The Tank: "Ugh, darn it!"
Anyway, why are there so many people in the Will Call lines? The Knicks were just routed the night before by the Pacers. It didn't make any sense. The Tank asked the next attendant "Why did so many people walkup?"
Attendant: "Tourists."
PG was right. The Tank won't tell the tourists that he bought the $60.50 tickets online for $20 each through a special offer (i.e. the Knicks were desperate for fans at any price) on Saturday morning as to not provoke an international incident.
Time for the starting line-ups and tip-off. The Tank went to grab something to eat and walked by the season ticket table. The first man gave me some schedules and card. The second man encouraged me to bring a group. The Tank thought about organizing a Church group for a charity
event. Maybe our group prayers would help the Knicks; the way the season is going, it couldn't hurt. If the Knicks continue to go down the tubes, we'll at least have a priest to serve the Last Rites.
PG and The Tank sat in front a young family. The 10 and 12 year old kids were brutal. They were heckling the referees and players. No one escaped their wrath. "Marbury's a bum!". "Nate sucks!". "Fire Isiah!". "The ref is blind!". Other comments are unprintable.
Though sarcastic, the Tank is afraid for the future of our fellow young fans. So young, so jaded and they are not even teenagers yet.
The Knicks actually started decently. However, Carmelo Anthony and the Nuggets took over and had a 26 point lead before the Knicks. The crowd booed. The Knicks then went on a 15-3 run and the crowd started to rally behind the Knicks. Carmelo and the Nuggets buried the Knicks.
Too little, too late. In the words of the great Paul Harvey, "you know the rest of the story."
Where Do We Go From Here: I am not crazy about Isiah as Knicks Coach. Unless there is a change of ownership, we don't have much choice given Mr. Dolan's vote of confidence in Isiah earlier this week. This is highly unlikely as the Garden is a printing press and I don't see the Dolans giving it up.
You're comments are welcome. Until then, please light a candle for the Knicks.
If you do watch a Knicks game, the action in between the basketball and brawls is entertaining as the Knicks City Dancers, the City Kids, and the Extreme Team performed well.
Posted by the Tank in NY.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Knicks-Nuggets Video and Photo Shot by The Tank
"All Ten Players Have Been Ejected!" mysteriously came out over the Garden Public Address system with a little over a minute in the Nuggets rout of the Knicks.
What happened? In all of the nearly 30 years that I have been following basketball going back to the great 1977-1978 Washington Bullets (my favorite team in addition to the 1980s Showtime Lakers), I have never seen all ten players ejected at same the time.
My friend Prashanth (AKA PG), the rest of the Garden faithful, and myself were almost sent home with another depressing loss. However, with about two minutes left, PG asked why are Marcus Camby, Carmelo Anthony, and other Nuggets starters still on the floor. I yelled out with about
1:33 "George, take Carmelo out of the game!". PG and other witnesses can corroborate this. George would have none of it as he played for Larry Brown at North Carolina and just MAYBE wanted to rub it into to Isiah and Mr. Dolan who was critical of Larry Brown earlier this week. Furthermore, Carmelo played for Larry Brown in the Olympics. Small World, eh?
This unfortunately was very presicent as a few seconds later, the Nuggets J.R. Smith has the ball appears to be going in for a layup when the Knicks Mardy Rollins intentionally fouls him by pulling him down by the shoulders. The Tank went on instinct, grabbed my camera, and ran down the aisle to take the following photo and video for you. I apologize in advance for the shakiness of the camera as I was running down the stairs and then almost tripped over a lady's pocketbook who left it out in the aisle and fell down the stairs. What I do for you, my loyal readers.
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Let's get the following straight. I am a huge Carmelo Anthony fan as he played for my beloved Syracuse Orangemen. As a scrappy teenager, my high school classmate Jim and I were on the winning 1985 Jim Boeheim Basketball Camp Championship team. We were a hustling group of overachievers who won the championship on the same floor in the Carrier Dome that the Orangemen play on to this day.
Over 21 years later, the Tank wanted to see Carmelo Anthony play and thank him for bringing me basketball closure by winning the 2003. (We should have won in 1987 but Keith Smart sunk the winning fade away jumper to seal the win for the Indiana Hoosiers.)
However, after the fight broke out, it calmed down, and then erupted again when Anthony threw a punch at Rollins. This was the ugliest incident since the brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills between the Pistons and Pacers in November 2004.
Anthony should be punished for this. The referees covened for several minutes and reviewed the tape. (Is anyone in MLB paying attention?)
Nuggets Coach George Karl, who I have always admired as a coach and analyst, should have NEVER EVER had Carmelo Anthony, Marcus Camby, and other Nuggets starters on the floor with a 20 point lead and only two minutes. Karl is an old pro and screwed up here. You don't want to risk injury (hurt hand) and probable suspension as Knicks Coach Isiah Thomas had pulled Stephon Marbury who played great with 31 points.
The referees finally decided to throw out all ten players. Therefore, since the Knicks "had surrendered", Stephon Marbury had to come back into the game. The Knicks ended up losing 123-100.
What does this mean for the Knicks? This maybe the turning of the corner for the Knicks as the City can rally around them. Do I think they will replicate the Red Sox championship after the fight between A-Rod and Jason Varitek galvanized the 2004 team? Highly unlikely but the Knicks are only 1.5 games out of the Eastern division lead and the 8th playoff seed so you never know what can happen.
Let's see what happens. Until next time, Go Knicks!
Posted by the Tank in NY.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Friday, December 15, 2006
Matsuzaka signing hurts both the Yankees and Mets
The Red Sox avoided shaming themselves with the Japanese people by coming to terms with World Baseball Classic MVP Daisuke Matsuzaka. This would not have been the first time as they snatched Kevin Millar back from Japan a few years ago according to AOL Sports Blogers Live (SBL). However, Matsuzaka is a native son and hero and NOT signing him would have shamed the Japanese and hampered Red Sox efforts to expand into Japan as the Yankees have with Hideki Matsui.
The key factor was none other than super-agent Scott Boras, Matsuzaka's agent. Driving a hard bargain is an understatement, Boras was still negotiating on the plane back to Boston on Wednesday. It was the 11th hour as the 30 day window to sign Matsuzaka was closing the next day.
If you are a Yankees or Mets fan, why should you care about what I have just written. The reasons are as follows:
(1) Bad: The Mets were the second highest bidder for Matzusaka and obviously out bid by the Red Sox.
(2) Worse: The Yankees are hurt by the fact that they'll have to face an all-world pitcher several times a year.
(3) Worst: The price for the Mets to get Barry Zito just got much higher. In addition to the $51.1 million right to negotiate with Matsuzaka, Boras wanted a $100 million contract for Matsuzaka. Boras "only" got $52 million (plus incentives to $60 million). If you Barry Zito, you are going to need to pay around $100 or more million.
Is Zito worth it? How much is a World Series worth? I have written and stated during the past season that the Mets needed to get Zito in return for Lastings Milledge but did not. If the Mets had Zito, I would bet my part of the farm on the Mets to win the 2006 World Series. Look at what the Mets did without Zito. Think what they would have done with Zito. It's that simple.
My fellow Dominican Omar Minaya has to make this deal. He will be competing with the Texas Rangers who desperately need pitching and there is no state tax in Texas versus 11 percent (7 percent state and 4 percent city) in New York.
If Omar is not going to return my calls for setting up a date with Mets fan Julia Stiles, he better sign Zito or I will really be upset.
Posted by an anxious Tank in NY.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Mr. Lamar Hunt, R.I.P.; NFL Picks
We have lost another football pioneer in Chiefs Owner Mr. Lamar Hunt. You don't have to root for the Chiefs to realize that his impact on the game was boundless as he was the founder of the AFL, a key force behind the AFL-NFL merger, and coined the term "Super Bowl".
Mr. Hunt also impacted the worlds of soccer and tennis as a co-founder of both the North American Soccer League (NASL), Major League Soccer (MLS), and World Championship Tennis (WCT), respectively. You are missed Mr. Hunt.
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Due to my protest against the Giants last week, the Tank was 9-6 in last week's games, touch wood. Without further ado, please find the predicted winner in bold below:
Locks:
The Patriots bounce back from a humiliating shutout and beat up on the Texans.
The Buccanneers don't play well in the cold and their next game is in Chicago. This adds up to a Bears win.
The Seahawks are at home and a win against the 49ers clinches the NFC West.
Should Win:
The Jets bounce back but have to win at what should be a very loud Viking friendly MetroDome.
The Bills are at home and the Dolphins will hopefully freeze there. If they don't, I am sure my brother-in-law and Dolphins fan Jim will remind me of this at Christmas Dinner. Go Bills!
The Giants finally heeded the Tank's protest and have home field advantage against the Eagles.
The Packers beat the reeling Lions.
The Ravens should beat the improving Browns.
The Saints host the inconsistent Redskins.
The Broncos need to win at the Cardinals.
The Rams bounce back and beat the Raiders.
The Colts are at home against the tough Bengals.
Avoid Picking:
The Titans are on a roll and at home but the Jaguars have the better record.
The Cowboys need to bounce back but are at the Falcons.
The 6-7 Steelers are playing for pride in the tough AFC and are at the 6-7 Panthers who are playing for an NFC playoff birth. The Steelers have had a few extra days to prepare. Almost a coin flip but the Panthers and their coach need the win more.
The Chargers are at home and on a roll but the Chiefs will be playing for Mr. Hunt as the Giants destroyed the Redskins 36-0 last year after the passing of Mr. Wellington Mara.
Posted by a mournful Tank in NY.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Allen Iverson Has More Luggage Than a Coach Store
The Tank is still too angry at the Knicks to discuss them, especially after going down by 30 points in Monday night's game and losing in heart breaking fashion to the Celtics. Therefore, I will discuss other teams' issues.
Allen Iverson has reportedly played his last game for the Philadelphia 76ers based on statements from their owner and their GM is desperately trying to deal him. Furthermore, his locker has been cleaned out over this past weekend in the anticipation that will be traded. Though he plays with lots of heart, A.I. doesn't like practicing, shows up late to games, and has had numerous run-ins with the law and other off court issues over the years.
How does the Tank know that Allen Iverson Has more luggage than a Coach Store? The Tank briefly temped as a word processor at Coach headquarters about a decade ago after moving to the City. Though I don't still don't know anything about hand bags, purses, etc., my former Coach colleagues were nice people and their PowerPoint and other presentations were well done.
Even excluding the luggage issues, how many more good years does A.I. have left? Two or three tops because of the physical pounding A.I. has taken; he has as many injuries as the Tank. Since he reportedly turned down a trade Tuesday to the Charlotte Bobcats, maybe he'll end up with K.G. in Minnesota (probably the best chance to contend for both ringless stars), the Celtics, Nuggets, or Pacers according to Bloomberg News. We should know "The Answer" to A.I.'s future destination in the next day or two.
Posted by the Tank in NY.
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