Portland +4 @ Atlanta
Tuesday Morning Update: I pushed this bet. Portland held a nine point leading in the 4th quarter. It's amazing to me that they are such porous rebounders. They were totally out manned on the glass by a more aggressive Hawks team. Also, Rudy Fernandez hit a 3 at the buzzer to force overtime, so, if he had missed that I would have covered. That's the way the NBA works people. Look for a new pick out sometime today.
Pick of the Day Record: 0-0-1
Monday, November 16, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Loyal Followers of the Chuck Wagon:
Tonight we play the Lakers in Los Angeles. It is going to be a tough game. The loss to Sacramento was inexcusable. We just simply can't lose those kind of games. It is imperative that we beat the teams we should beat if we want to successfully march to the playoffs. If we lose tonight, then we are back at .500 with a very hot, and surprisingly solid, Phoenix team coming into Toyota on Tuesday. It would be really nice to get a win tonight somehow. We have got to stay afloat.
When Tracy comes back, it will be very interesting to see how he fits into our rotation. Who do we start? Do we bring Tracy off the bench? Would Tracy even be willing to come off the bench? If we decide to bring him off the bench, would he randomly decide that he needs another surgery? These are all legitimate and important questions to ask at this juncture. I personally don't believe that TMac buys into our team concept, heart, which is not a good sign. He has the potential to run this team into the ground, but I trust Rick Adelman to not let this happen. I believe that if he shows a me-first attitude that he will be traded sooner, rather than later.
My heart of hearts tells me that for some reason TMac is going to play hard, and I would personally like to see him come off the bench with the likes of Carl Landry, Kyle Lowry and David Andersen. Look at the possible lineup:
Starters: Arron Brooks at the point. Trevor Ariza at shooting guard. Shane Battier at small forward. Luis Scola at power forward. Chuck Hayes at Center.
First substitution line up: Arron Brooks at the point. Trevor Ariza at shooting guard. Tracy McGrady at small forward. Carl Landry at power forward. Chuck Hayes at center.
Midway through 2nd quarter line up: Kyle Lowry at the point. Chase Budinger at shooting guard. Tracy McGrady at small forward. Carl Landry at power forward. David Andersen at center.
This second quarter line up is a quality one. There would be ample amount of space created with athleticism all over the floor. It could be a really solid combination with Lowry and McGrady slashing and geting open 3's for Budinger and Andersen, while also creating open 15 footers for Carl Landry. The running game would also be ideal with this line up assuming McGrady is willing to push it.
The finishing the game line up: numerous possibilities. Some combination of Lowry and or Brooks if one of them is hot. 2 of TMac/Battier/Ariza/Budinger with Scola or Landry down low. Yes, in a tight game against a big team, Hayes would probably need to be in the game. But, the addition to McGrady, a competent creator of a score, changes our whole complexion late in games. Our offense would be less stagnant in the half court while we would still possess the ability to run.
Our defense is starting to worry me a little bit. We are just out sized. Don't mistake out sized with out manned. We are not out manned. We have the talent and skill set to play with anyone, it is just tough sometimes when our 5 players are at such a size disadvantage. We are having a lot of trouble rebounding the ball with any consistency. Against Sacramento we really struggled to clean up the glass and gave up numerous second chance points. Hayes struggled pretty good for the first time this year against a more athletic big man. But, I honestly don't know where to go from that. Do we stick Landry on a big athletic Center? I am not too sure. I would just prefer to stay with Hayes.
About Hayes....has anyone else noticed his improvement on the offensive end? He actually has developed some pretty decent post moves which is a beautiful sight to see. He still does sometimes pick the wrong times to attack though.
Overall, I think we will bounce back from this recent adversity and continue to improve. I am very anxious to see if McGrady can be a team-first guy that just wants to win. It may be wishful thinking, but I believe he will be a valuable addition to our squad. And, if for some reason he is not, then it is bye-bye Tracy.
Good luck tonight Rocks.
The Noles won yesterday. I was very interested in seeing EJ Manual in a prominent role. He passed the first test. We didn't open up the whole playbook, and ran solidly throughout, but he shows potential. He is so big and athletic that the imagination can come up with numerous scenarios of him excelling in Jimbo's dynamic offense. It was nice to see Ty Jones back in there at running back and have himself a good game. Jermain Thomas really has run hard the last few games, and the future looks bright with our current crop of tail backs. Recievers did a nice job. Fortson played his best game of the season and had the best tackle for our team on EJ's only mistake of the game.
The defense played well in spots, but there are still so many weaknesses. We really need to tackle better and get more pressure from the front 4. Our tackling is horrendously bad at times. It makes us look like a JV defense. But, once again, very excited to see who Jimbo brings in to run that side of the ball. The bright spot: we can't get any worse.
We play Maryland next week in Mickey's final game inside The Doak. It will be an emotional game and we are breaking in some new Nike Oregon-like uniforms with Black Helmets. I thought our school colors were Garnet and Gold? I hate all these uniform experiments. Let's just do away with all these white out/black out games and stick to tradition. Garnet tops with Gold bottoms at home- with the occasional All Garnet look, and White tops with Gold pants on the road- with the occasional White top and Garnet pants look.
In other news, my gambling skills have really hit a wall. I need to get back on the drawing board and climb myself out of this funk. I am going to start giving a pick-of-the-day in NBA games starting tomorrow. I am hoping that this will help my luck. When you gamble like us Sims' do, it's easy to see why Vegas is such a successful city. In the end, unless you are really really good, you are probably going to lose. I believe in my ability to pick sporting contests, and I am determined to gain my bank roll back and beat Vegas. I am not going to stop until I do.
I just ordered a new computer that I cannot afford, but I went ahead and did it anyway. 2 23' LCD monitors are going to make doing research for my blogs much easier, and you can expect more posts from The Bomb of Dos. This new computer is also going to be used to create the resurgence of The Iced Out Eskimoz. I have already spoken to Big Yeast and IceBurg Slim, and there will be a few studio sessions that go on over the Thanksgiving Holiday. If anything of substance comes from them other than drunken freestyles, I will be sure to post the product on here. It's the IOE. This purchase of a computer has for sure pushed my move out date from my parent's home to at least June of next year- possibly longer. If it was up to me, I would stay forever. I don't see why not. I don't bother my parents. I leave them alone and have my own space. I pretty much just come home from work- couch it- eat it- then sleep it. I don't see why I would need to leave- I'd just be back over here for any Rocket or Nole or sporting event of interest because I would never have as good a TV setup out on my own. We will see what happens. My Father hinted at me yesterday that it was time to move out- but I am convinced that he didn't mean it. I think my Mother put him up to it- shame on them. I am a gift. They should cherish the time they have me. I am the Dos for crying out loud.
Does anyone else feel lost on Sundays? I really don't know what to do with myself on these days. I watch and gamble football, but I always feel worthless doing it. I do not feel worthless on Saturdays watching college games, but I do on Sundays. I don't understand. Maybe it is because I don't really have a pro team to route for. I have never been able to get into the Texans, even though I try to year after year. I need to come up with some scheme to make money and do all of my work on Sundays. So, if anyone has any ideas, please pass them along. I am money-hungry.
In closing, I would like to say Go Rockets and Go Noles. Happy Sunday to all the loyal followers of the Chuck Wagon. Take care and God Bless.
2
Tonight we play the Lakers in Los Angeles. It is going to be a tough game. The loss to Sacramento was inexcusable. We just simply can't lose those kind of games. It is imperative that we beat the teams we should beat if we want to successfully march to the playoffs. If we lose tonight, then we are back at .500 with a very hot, and surprisingly solid, Phoenix team coming into Toyota on Tuesday. It would be really nice to get a win tonight somehow. We have got to stay afloat.
When Tracy comes back, it will be very interesting to see how he fits into our rotation. Who do we start? Do we bring Tracy off the bench? Would Tracy even be willing to come off the bench? If we decide to bring him off the bench, would he randomly decide that he needs another surgery? These are all legitimate and important questions to ask at this juncture. I personally don't believe that TMac buys into our team concept, heart, which is not a good sign. He has the potential to run this team into the ground, but I trust Rick Adelman to not let this happen. I believe that if he shows a me-first attitude that he will be traded sooner, rather than later.
My heart of hearts tells me that for some reason TMac is going to play hard, and I would personally like to see him come off the bench with the likes of Carl Landry, Kyle Lowry and David Andersen. Look at the possible lineup:
Starters: Arron Brooks at the point. Trevor Ariza at shooting guard. Shane Battier at small forward. Luis Scola at power forward. Chuck Hayes at Center.
First substitution line up: Arron Brooks at the point. Trevor Ariza at shooting guard. Tracy McGrady at small forward. Carl Landry at power forward. Chuck Hayes at center.
Midway through 2nd quarter line up: Kyle Lowry at the point. Chase Budinger at shooting guard. Tracy McGrady at small forward. Carl Landry at power forward. David Andersen at center.
This second quarter line up is a quality one. There would be ample amount of space created with athleticism all over the floor. It could be a really solid combination with Lowry and McGrady slashing and geting open 3's for Budinger and Andersen, while also creating open 15 footers for Carl Landry. The running game would also be ideal with this line up assuming McGrady is willing to push it.
The finishing the game line up: numerous possibilities. Some combination of Lowry and or Brooks if one of them is hot. 2 of TMac/Battier/Ariza/Budinger with Scola or Landry down low. Yes, in a tight game against a big team, Hayes would probably need to be in the game. But, the addition to McGrady, a competent creator of a score, changes our whole complexion late in games. Our offense would be less stagnant in the half court while we would still possess the ability to run.
Our defense is starting to worry me a little bit. We are just out sized. Don't mistake out sized with out manned. We are not out manned. We have the talent and skill set to play with anyone, it is just tough sometimes when our 5 players are at such a size disadvantage. We are having a lot of trouble rebounding the ball with any consistency. Against Sacramento we really struggled to clean up the glass and gave up numerous second chance points. Hayes struggled pretty good for the first time this year against a more athletic big man. But, I honestly don't know where to go from that. Do we stick Landry on a big athletic Center? I am not too sure. I would just prefer to stay with Hayes.
About Hayes....has anyone else noticed his improvement on the offensive end? He actually has developed some pretty decent post moves which is a beautiful sight to see. He still does sometimes pick the wrong times to attack though.
Overall, I think we will bounce back from this recent adversity and continue to improve. I am very anxious to see if McGrady can be a team-first guy that just wants to win. It may be wishful thinking, but I believe he will be a valuable addition to our squad. And, if for some reason he is not, then it is bye-bye Tracy.
Good luck tonight Rocks.
The Noles won yesterday. I was very interested in seeing EJ Manual in a prominent role. He passed the first test. We didn't open up the whole playbook, and ran solidly throughout, but he shows potential. He is so big and athletic that the imagination can come up with numerous scenarios of him excelling in Jimbo's dynamic offense. It was nice to see Ty Jones back in there at running back and have himself a good game. Jermain Thomas really has run hard the last few games, and the future looks bright with our current crop of tail backs. Recievers did a nice job. Fortson played his best game of the season and had the best tackle for our team on EJ's only mistake of the game.
The defense played well in spots, but there are still so many weaknesses. We really need to tackle better and get more pressure from the front 4. Our tackling is horrendously bad at times. It makes us look like a JV defense. But, once again, very excited to see who Jimbo brings in to run that side of the ball. The bright spot: we can't get any worse.
We play Maryland next week in Mickey's final game inside The Doak. It will be an emotional game and we are breaking in some new Nike Oregon-like uniforms with Black Helmets. I thought our school colors were Garnet and Gold? I hate all these uniform experiments. Let's just do away with all these white out/black out games and stick to tradition. Garnet tops with Gold bottoms at home- with the occasional All Garnet look, and White tops with Gold pants on the road- with the occasional White top and Garnet pants look.
In other news, my gambling skills have really hit a wall. I need to get back on the drawing board and climb myself out of this funk. I am going to start giving a pick-of-the-day in NBA games starting tomorrow. I am hoping that this will help my luck. When you gamble like us Sims' do, it's easy to see why Vegas is such a successful city. In the end, unless you are really really good, you are probably going to lose. I believe in my ability to pick sporting contests, and I am determined to gain my bank roll back and beat Vegas. I am not going to stop until I do.
I just ordered a new computer that I cannot afford, but I went ahead and did it anyway. 2 23' LCD monitors are going to make doing research for my blogs much easier, and you can expect more posts from The Bomb of Dos. This new computer is also going to be used to create the resurgence of The Iced Out Eskimoz. I have already spoken to Big Yeast and IceBurg Slim, and there will be a few studio sessions that go on over the Thanksgiving Holiday. If anything of substance comes from them other than drunken freestyles, I will be sure to post the product on here. It's the IOE. This purchase of a computer has for sure pushed my move out date from my parent's home to at least June of next year- possibly longer. If it was up to me, I would stay forever. I don't see why not. I don't bother my parents. I leave them alone and have my own space. I pretty much just come home from work- couch it- eat it- then sleep it. I don't see why I would need to leave- I'd just be back over here for any Rocket or Nole or sporting event of interest because I would never have as good a TV setup out on my own. We will see what happens. My Father hinted at me yesterday that it was time to move out- but I am convinced that he didn't mean it. I think my Mother put him up to it- shame on them. I am a gift. They should cherish the time they have me. I am the Dos for crying out loud.
Does anyone else feel lost on Sundays? I really don't know what to do with myself on these days. I watch and gamble football, but I always feel worthless doing it. I do not feel worthless on Saturdays watching college games, but I do on Sundays. I don't understand. Maybe it is because I don't really have a pro team to route for. I have never been able to get into the Texans, even though I try to year after year. I need to come up with some scheme to make money and do all of my work on Sundays. So, if anyone has any ideas, please pass them along. I am money-hungry.
In closing, I would like to say Go Rockets and Go Noles. Happy Sunday to all the loyal followers of the Chuck Wagon. Take care and God Bless.
2
Friday, November 13, 2009
I really thought that Violet Palmer had left the NBA to become the head of the Mountain West Conference Woman's Basketball Officiating or something similar...I'm afraid I was either completely mistaken, or she sucked at that job too- because she was officiating the Suns/Lakers game last night. Holy Santa Clause Shit.....I am not looking forward to the first game she calls for My Rockets. Happy Weekend. Look to see a new piece up sometime Sunday.
II
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The Life of Dos
As I sit here, I am in pain.
I hurt. But hurt is what makes you stronger. Hurt makes you a better person. Hurt establishes your character. In a funny way, hurt is you. Hurt is the strongest emotion that an individual can feel. And it is imperative for you to hurt every now and again just to make sure you are still there. As Johnny Cash said, "I hurt myself today.....to see if I still feel."
Well people, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that I am hurting. I've been hurting. But, something inside of me, something deep down, tells me that this hurt is just the beginning of a healthy rejuvenation.
We lost last night. We got beat. We are most likely not going to go to a bowl. Bobby Bowden is still going to be here next year. There is a chance, although minute, that Christian Ponder will leave for the NFL. We will break in a new Defensive Coordinator next year. Doesn't sound so rosy, does it? Well, it sure as hell sounds rosy to me. We just need to get through the next 3 games, and start the rebuilding process. We are on the right track. I am pretty sure Jimbo Fisher has proven over the last few weeks that he deserves the keys to the program at the appropriate time, which I believe is now, but Bobby believes is at the end of next season. And, I am actually okay with this. We may struggle next year, but it sure would be awesome to send Bobby off after beating Florida at home. The program is heading in the right direction. I know this in my heart. I really do.
Once again, I am not going to get into X's and O's because it is irrelevant at this juncture as to why I believe we lost, but, I'd like to share a few quotes with the loyal followers of the Chuck Wagon that establish hope- establish credibility.
I would like to preface this quote by saying that becoming bowl eligible is NEVER, and I mean NEVER, an appropriate or acceptable goal. Never. Think about this for a second.....If your goal is to become bowl eligible, which occurs when you win 6 games, your goal is to have a .500 winning percentage. Your goal is to be average. Since when is it okay to be average? Why waste your breath if your goal is to be average. I am not okay with people saying that "well, at least we have a chance to play in a bowl". Bobby has already brought down most of his records at this point, what the hell difference does it make if we don't play in a bowl? He just loses one more record. My point is rather simple here. I don't want you to read too much into this. I just simply don't think that average should be acceptable and my goal for the rest of the season is to play hard, and to improve. And if that brings 2 more victories, then so be it. I will be happy to watch this team play in the EmeraldNuts Bowl on a baseball field. It would also be nice to get another month of work in preparing for the bowl, but it should never be a goal just to become bowl eligible.
Last night, Jimbo was asked what the motivation for the rest of the year is. He responded with:
"I hope pride and the wanting to win- if that doesn't motivate you, then you're in the wrong business."
This quote completely illustrates the difference in attitude towards winning between Jimbo and Old Bobby. Bobby would be perfectly content to just get bowl eligible, but not Jimbo. Sure, Jimbo would like to play in a bowl. But, he wants to improve. He is not okay with middle-of-the-road success. And, I am afraid to say it, but, Bobby seems okay with middle-of-the-road success.
Back in 2000, Bobby said that he would know it was time to go when we became a middle-of-the pack team. Well, we became one of these teams back in 2002. And he's still holding on for dear life. Look, I love Bobby Bowden. He is the single reason why I am a Seminole Booster, Alumni Association Member, and Season Ticket Holder. But, isn't enough enough? It's painful to see his legacy tarnish like this to the outside world. His legacy will never tarnish with the true Seminole faithful because we understand how important he has been to our program. He took a Woman's Teachers School and turned it into the greatest dynasty that college football has ever seen, and ever will see, from '87-'00. Bobby, we won't forget. We never will forget. Just hang 'em up though. It's time.
But, once again, my over-loyalty will force me to write a check for an amount that I cannot afford to the Florida State University this coming spring because of my love for this man. I want him to retire, but I will support him unwaveringly until he actually decides to.
Accountability. You have to have it to be successful. My Father told me a long time ago that there are 3 rules. He said you have to work hard, have integrity, and take responsibility for your actions. Think about that for a second. It's true. Almost all successful people in this world have these three attributes in their lives. Christian Ponder sure does.
"We had a chance to win the game and I didn't come through."
That is coming from a guy who has a rib contusion, sprained ankle, and now a separated shoulder. He takes accountability. This was the first game of the season that he actually played poorly and just like when we lost games that he played great in, he took accountability. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow into a great leader and probably the best quarterback in the country. Yes, I just said best quarterback in the country.
There are two positives that come from his separated shoulder. 1- he will probably stay for his senior year now, and not test the NFL. 2- we get to see what EJ Manual can do. We already know what Ponder can do, and we feel really good about next year with him back under center, but now we get to see the future. I am genuinely excited to see EJ in action the next few games. How great would it be for him to go into Gainsville and hand them their first loss of the season- on Tebow's senior day? Tebow is easily the most overrated athlete in the history of sports by the way. It would be beautiful. And yes, it is okay to dream.
Now, on a more happy note- let's talk about the Rockets.
Writing these words doesn't give it justice. If there is a more refreshing sight out there in the world than The Rockets, I haven't seen it. That's how I would describe this team at this juncture in the season- refreshing.
Re-fresh-ing (adjective): 1: having the power to restore freshness, vitality, energy, ect. 2: pleasingly fresh or different.
Synonyms: bracing, invigorating, stimulating, renewing, intoxicating, restorative, energizing.
This is the Rockets. It is what we are. We are heart. The way we play is energizing. It is intoxicating. It is stimulating. It is simply a beautiful sight to see. It's amazing to see the power that you can create when you have different parts working as one. I said at the beginning of the season that we were going to struggle at times. I predicted a 7th or 8th place finish in the Western Conference. I still believe we are going to struggle at times this year. It is inevitable. We may go on a few 4 or 5 game losing streaks. It will happen. But I've never been so sure of something in my life than what I am about to say. We will bounce back from adversity. It is our make up- it's in our DNA.
I don't see why we cant be the division winner and a 2 or 3 seed at this point. Even being as unbiased as I possibly can be, I don't see why this can't happen. I think it is pretty easy to see, for anyone who is an NBA fan, that the best team in Texas plays its home games at a place called Toyota Center that resides on Bell and LeBranch Street in Downtown Houston.
We have the hardest working guys in the NBA. It is simply a fact. We have a team that plays the game for the right reasons. We have the best defensive player in the league in Chuck Hayes. If he doesn't make the all-defensive team if he continues to play at a rate close to what he has been playing at, I may boycott the NBA for several years. He embodies the passion, the pride, the "want to" that our team is built on. I wouldn't trade him for anybody in the league, because it is impossible to find someone that has what he has. Look, I'm not crazy. I know we probably aren't going to win it all, but who knows. I can guarantee you this though- there isn't one team that would be happy playing us in the playoffs. Our style of play is simply refreshing. We won't back down and we are going to play with heart. And we want to win. Our players wear their hearts on their sleeves- and as long as this holds true- we will have a fighter's chance.
I have been pondering this thought the past couple of days- who is responsible for this team of "want to" guys? And, the answer is not Daryl Morey. It's not Les Alexander. It's not Rick Adelman or Elston Turner or Jack Sikma or TR Dunn.
It's Jeff Van Gundy. The Legend himself. My favorite coach of all time.
He was a no bullshit guy to put it simply. He took shit teams to the playoffs. I mean seriously, go look at our roster in '05. TMac and Yao, then who? Ryan Bowen? Keith Bogans? David Wesly? Stromile Swift? He believed in hard work. He laid the foundation. He signed Hayes to that 10 Day contract. He believed in Hayes. And with that signing of Hayes, he forever changed the foundation of our squad. He wouldn't put up with players that had attitude issues- ie. Stro Swift and Bonzi Wells. There is no way he could have coached last years team with Ron Artest. I am convinced Ron would have been told to stay away- which wouldn't have ever occurred because he would have never given the "ok" to trade for him. This is where Adelman comes in to play. Adelman can coach these guys. There isn't a coach in the world that I would rather have than Rick Adelman with this squad. You are seeing his basketball brilliance this year. He's coaching players up that would be sitting in suits on other squads in the NBA. I love Rick Adelman, but, I love Jeff Van Gundy for laying that foundation that Rick has come in and run with.
Listen people, there are going to be struggles within this 82 game march to the playoffs. It's going to happen. But we have the skill set, and the mind set that allows you to overcome these struggles and come out a better ball club. I've never believed in something as strongly as I believe in these Rockets. I tear up when I think about them. I cried after we lost that game to the Lakers- but you know what- I know we are going to learn from that. That is the make up of this team. You hit a rocky stretch in the 4th quarter because we stopped playing our game- and it won't happen again. We will continue to push the ball- continue to get after it at 100 mph- continue to improve. I've never been so sure of anything in my life.
I also don't know how to take this whole "Chuck Hayes is becoming the most popular Rocket" thing. I don't know whether to get upset or embrace it. Chuck Hayes is MY guy, and he's been my guy for a long time now. I was the guy wearing his jersey to games and people would talk shit after a missed layup or a turn over. And I would take this personally. I wouldn't say anything back except "just wait". Well people, I think the wait is over. And it is completely bitter-sweet for me. I've longed for the day that Chuck Hayes received the respect that he so well deserves. But, I didn't expect to be upset about it. I hear people say things like "Chuck is the key to our team", "we can't be successful without Chuck", "Did you see how hard Chuck played tonight?"- all comments by people who said in the off season that we were screwed because Chuck Hayes was going to be our starting center. Really rubs me the wrong way. Did you not notice that Chuck plays harder than any player in the league on a nightly basis- and it's been happening for 5 years now? Did you not notice how Chuck was the key to us taking the Lakers to a Game 7 last year? Did you forget that he shut down Bynum last year in the playoffs? Did you forget that the reason we got off to a slow start in Game 7 was because we were picking our poison and stuck Chuck on Gasol to start the game- and what happened- Bynum started of hot? Did you not notice all these things? It would be one thing to share this guy with people who genuinely cared and respected what he has done- it's a completely other thing when people that hated him- resented him- didn't believe in him- for the past 5 years to finally jump on the band wagon- pun intended. I don't know. Maybe I am overreacting. I guess my love for this man just runs deeper than the love most people know. On a happier note, this stretch of play by him almost guarantees that he will be resigned and a Rocket for life- which is once again refreshing. He is too valuable to our Organization to let go.
I want to wish everyone a happy Sunday. God Bless.
Dos
I hurt. But hurt is what makes you stronger. Hurt makes you a better person. Hurt establishes your character. In a funny way, hurt is you. Hurt is the strongest emotion that an individual can feel. And it is imperative for you to hurt every now and again just to make sure you are still there. As Johnny Cash said, "I hurt myself today.....to see if I still feel."
Well people, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that I am hurting. I've been hurting. But, something inside of me, something deep down, tells me that this hurt is just the beginning of a healthy rejuvenation.
We lost last night. We got beat. We are most likely not going to go to a bowl. Bobby Bowden is still going to be here next year. There is a chance, although minute, that Christian Ponder will leave for the NFL. We will break in a new Defensive Coordinator next year. Doesn't sound so rosy, does it? Well, it sure as hell sounds rosy to me. We just need to get through the next 3 games, and start the rebuilding process. We are on the right track. I am pretty sure Jimbo Fisher has proven over the last few weeks that he deserves the keys to the program at the appropriate time, which I believe is now, but Bobby believes is at the end of next season. And, I am actually okay with this. We may struggle next year, but it sure would be awesome to send Bobby off after beating Florida at home. The program is heading in the right direction. I know this in my heart. I really do.
Once again, I am not going to get into X's and O's because it is irrelevant at this juncture as to why I believe we lost, but, I'd like to share a few quotes with the loyal followers of the Chuck Wagon that establish hope- establish credibility.
I would like to preface this quote by saying that becoming bowl eligible is NEVER, and I mean NEVER, an appropriate or acceptable goal. Never. Think about this for a second.....If your goal is to become bowl eligible, which occurs when you win 6 games, your goal is to have a .500 winning percentage. Your goal is to be average. Since when is it okay to be average? Why waste your breath if your goal is to be average. I am not okay with people saying that "well, at least we have a chance to play in a bowl". Bobby has already brought down most of his records at this point, what the hell difference does it make if we don't play in a bowl? He just loses one more record. My point is rather simple here. I don't want you to read too much into this. I just simply don't think that average should be acceptable and my goal for the rest of the season is to play hard, and to improve. And if that brings 2 more victories, then so be it. I will be happy to watch this team play in the EmeraldNuts Bowl on a baseball field. It would also be nice to get another month of work in preparing for the bowl, but it should never be a goal just to become bowl eligible.
Last night, Jimbo was asked what the motivation for the rest of the year is. He responded with:
"I hope pride and the wanting to win- if that doesn't motivate you, then you're in the wrong business."
This quote completely illustrates the difference in attitude towards winning between Jimbo and Old Bobby. Bobby would be perfectly content to just get bowl eligible, but not Jimbo. Sure, Jimbo would like to play in a bowl. But, he wants to improve. He is not okay with middle-of-the-road success. And, I am afraid to say it, but, Bobby seems okay with middle-of-the-road success.
Back in 2000, Bobby said that he would know it was time to go when we became a middle-of-the pack team. Well, we became one of these teams back in 2002. And he's still holding on for dear life. Look, I love Bobby Bowden. He is the single reason why I am a Seminole Booster, Alumni Association Member, and Season Ticket Holder. But, isn't enough enough? It's painful to see his legacy tarnish like this to the outside world. His legacy will never tarnish with the true Seminole faithful because we understand how important he has been to our program. He took a Woman's Teachers School and turned it into the greatest dynasty that college football has ever seen, and ever will see, from '87-'00. Bobby, we won't forget. We never will forget. Just hang 'em up though. It's time.
But, once again, my over-loyalty will force me to write a check for an amount that I cannot afford to the Florida State University this coming spring because of my love for this man. I want him to retire, but I will support him unwaveringly until he actually decides to.
Accountability. You have to have it to be successful. My Father told me a long time ago that there are 3 rules. He said you have to work hard, have integrity, and take responsibility for your actions. Think about that for a second. It's true. Almost all successful people in this world have these three attributes in their lives. Christian Ponder sure does.
"We had a chance to win the game and I didn't come through."
That is coming from a guy who has a rib contusion, sprained ankle, and now a separated shoulder. He takes accountability. This was the first game of the season that he actually played poorly and just like when we lost games that he played great in, he took accountability. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow into a great leader and probably the best quarterback in the country. Yes, I just said best quarterback in the country.
There are two positives that come from his separated shoulder. 1- he will probably stay for his senior year now, and not test the NFL. 2- we get to see what EJ Manual can do. We already know what Ponder can do, and we feel really good about next year with him back under center, but now we get to see the future. I am genuinely excited to see EJ in action the next few games. How great would it be for him to go into Gainsville and hand them their first loss of the season- on Tebow's senior day? Tebow is easily the most overrated athlete in the history of sports by the way. It would be beautiful. And yes, it is okay to dream.
Now, on a more happy note- let's talk about the Rockets.
Writing these words doesn't give it justice. If there is a more refreshing sight out there in the world than The Rockets, I haven't seen it. That's how I would describe this team at this juncture in the season- refreshing.
Re-fresh-ing (adjective): 1: having the power to restore freshness, vitality, energy, ect. 2: pleasingly fresh or different.
Synonyms: bracing, invigorating, stimulating, renewing, intoxicating, restorative, energizing.
This is the Rockets. It is what we are. We are heart. The way we play is energizing. It is intoxicating. It is stimulating. It is simply a beautiful sight to see. It's amazing to see the power that you can create when you have different parts working as one. I said at the beginning of the season that we were going to struggle at times. I predicted a 7th or 8th place finish in the Western Conference. I still believe we are going to struggle at times this year. It is inevitable. We may go on a few 4 or 5 game losing streaks. It will happen. But I've never been so sure of something in my life than what I am about to say. We will bounce back from adversity. It is our make up- it's in our DNA.
I don't see why we cant be the division winner and a 2 or 3 seed at this point. Even being as unbiased as I possibly can be, I don't see why this can't happen. I think it is pretty easy to see, for anyone who is an NBA fan, that the best team in Texas plays its home games at a place called Toyota Center that resides on Bell and LeBranch Street in Downtown Houston.
We have the hardest working guys in the NBA. It is simply a fact. We have a team that plays the game for the right reasons. We have the best defensive player in the league in Chuck Hayes. If he doesn't make the all-defensive team if he continues to play at a rate close to what he has been playing at, I may boycott the NBA for several years. He embodies the passion, the pride, the "want to" that our team is built on. I wouldn't trade him for anybody in the league, because it is impossible to find someone that has what he has. Look, I'm not crazy. I know we probably aren't going to win it all, but who knows. I can guarantee you this though- there isn't one team that would be happy playing us in the playoffs. Our style of play is simply refreshing. We won't back down and we are going to play with heart. And we want to win. Our players wear their hearts on their sleeves- and as long as this holds true- we will have a fighter's chance.
I have been pondering this thought the past couple of days- who is responsible for this team of "want to" guys? And, the answer is not Daryl Morey. It's not Les Alexander. It's not Rick Adelman or Elston Turner or Jack Sikma or TR Dunn.
It's Jeff Van Gundy. The Legend himself. My favorite coach of all time.
He was a no bullshit guy to put it simply. He took shit teams to the playoffs. I mean seriously, go look at our roster in '05. TMac and Yao, then who? Ryan Bowen? Keith Bogans? David Wesly? Stromile Swift? He believed in hard work. He laid the foundation. He signed Hayes to that 10 Day contract. He believed in Hayes. And with that signing of Hayes, he forever changed the foundation of our squad. He wouldn't put up with players that had attitude issues- ie. Stro Swift and Bonzi Wells. There is no way he could have coached last years team with Ron Artest. I am convinced Ron would have been told to stay away- which wouldn't have ever occurred because he would have never given the "ok" to trade for him. This is where Adelman comes in to play. Adelman can coach these guys. There isn't a coach in the world that I would rather have than Rick Adelman with this squad. You are seeing his basketball brilliance this year. He's coaching players up that would be sitting in suits on other squads in the NBA. I love Rick Adelman, but, I love Jeff Van Gundy for laying that foundation that Rick has come in and run with.
Listen people, there are going to be struggles within this 82 game march to the playoffs. It's going to happen. But we have the skill set, and the mind set that allows you to overcome these struggles and come out a better ball club. I've never believed in something as strongly as I believe in these Rockets. I tear up when I think about them. I cried after we lost that game to the Lakers- but you know what- I know we are going to learn from that. That is the make up of this team. You hit a rocky stretch in the 4th quarter because we stopped playing our game- and it won't happen again. We will continue to push the ball- continue to get after it at 100 mph- continue to improve. I've never been so sure of anything in my life.
I also don't know how to take this whole "Chuck Hayes is becoming the most popular Rocket" thing. I don't know whether to get upset or embrace it. Chuck Hayes is MY guy, and he's been my guy for a long time now. I was the guy wearing his jersey to games and people would talk shit after a missed layup or a turn over. And I would take this personally. I wouldn't say anything back except "just wait". Well people, I think the wait is over. And it is completely bitter-sweet for me. I've longed for the day that Chuck Hayes received the respect that he so well deserves. But, I didn't expect to be upset about it. I hear people say things like "Chuck is the key to our team", "we can't be successful without Chuck", "Did you see how hard Chuck played tonight?"- all comments by people who said in the off season that we were screwed because Chuck Hayes was going to be our starting center. Really rubs me the wrong way. Did you not notice that Chuck plays harder than any player in the league on a nightly basis- and it's been happening for 5 years now? Did you not notice how Chuck was the key to us taking the Lakers to a Game 7 last year? Did you forget that he shut down Bynum last year in the playoffs? Did you forget that the reason we got off to a slow start in Game 7 was because we were picking our poison and stuck Chuck on Gasol to start the game- and what happened- Bynum started of hot? Did you not notice all these things? It would be one thing to share this guy with people who genuinely cared and respected what he has done- it's a completely other thing when people that hated him- resented him- didn't believe in him- for the past 5 years to finally jump on the band wagon- pun intended. I don't know. Maybe I am overreacting. I guess my love for this man just runs deeper than the love most people know. On a happier note, this stretch of play by him almost guarantees that he will be resigned and a Rocket for life- which is once again refreshing. He is too valuable to our Organization to let go.
I want to wish everyone a happy Sunday. God Bless.
Dos
Friday, November 6, 2009
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Mickey.
Mickey Andrews is expected to announce his retirement, effective at the end of the season, this afternoon. I want to thank Mickey on behalf of all Noles for his 26 years of loyal and passionate service to the University. Florida State would not be what it is today without the man. Who knows what the early part of this decade would have looked like if we had an offense that was anywhere as good as our defense. It's a shame that now that the offense is clicking, the defense has faltered. Us Noles will always be indebted to Coach Andrews, and I wish him nothing but the best in his life after football.Former FSU Cornerback Corey Fuller had this to say about Coach Andrews:
"Without him contributing as many years as he did, there wouldn't be a Florida State, there wouldn't be a Deion Sanders, Corey Fuller, Terrell Buckley, all the guys that came through, Samari Rolle. We were good players coming out of high school but he got the most out of our talent."
I hope that one day a statue will be put up in honor of Coach Andrews or the Indoor Practice Facility will bear his name. We owe him something of great significance for his diligence and passion for the Florida State University and all the players that played under his tutelage.
Thank you Coach Andrews. You will be missed. You are a true legend in the eyes of the Nole Faithful.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
My Life
"I know that the personell in this locker room isn't overwhelming, but how hard we play is."
-Chuck Hayes
This quote embodies the reason for my living. I know everyone knows that I love the Rockets, but in reality, they don't know. My love runs deeper than the "love" everyone else understands and knows. My love is my life. I would honestly take a bullett for any Rocket. Any Rocket. I would allow my life to be taken if it meant that the City of Houston could enjoy another Rocket World Championship. It's a passion that few in this world have the blessesed opportunity to experience.
Then, there are the Noles. Wow. The love runs even deeper. Besides my family and immidiate friends, there is nothing of greater importance in my life. My life may seem boring. It may seem stagnant. It may seem that it has no fun. But, you are wrong. My life is full. My life is complete. The feeling I get from watching us drive down the field and score with 1 minute and 30 seconds left after trailing by 4 points is all I need. It is a much greater feeling than anyone could imagine. It is difficult for others to understand, and I understand this.
An individual must have courage to feel the way I do about the Rockets and the Noles. It is a commitment. It is a lifestyle. It means ditching those around you that care most about you on a Friday or Saturday night to watch a sporting event. In the end, though, it is these people that understand you most. It is these people that respect what you stand for the most. Respect is all we have.
I truely believe in this quote: "We can't run from what we are. Our destiny chooses us."
The Rockets and the Noles chose me.
It is my personal belief that I was put on this earth for 2 things: to be a Nole fan and to be a Rocket fan. These two things are my priority. It is what I have. It is what will always be. They will never go away.
These two things cause heartache. They cause sadness. They cause confusion. They cause happiness. They cause belief. They cause dreaming. They cause greatness.
The Rockets and the Noles are more pure than anything else in this world. They do it all. Every single emotion you could possibly feel are embodied by the Rocket Organization and the Florida State University.
Don't get me wrong- I am a family and friend first guy. If one of my brothers, or one of my best friends needed ANYTHING, that would take precident over the Noles or the Rockets. But, after that, the Rockets and the Noles are all I have. They are me. They are the most pure thing in my life.
The Rocket's roster is an oxymoron. Saying "the NBA player Chuck Hayes" is an oxymoron. It doesn't make sense. Jerome Solomen (a Houston Chronicle writer) said the other day that if "Brian Cook and Chuck Hayes are in your starting lineup, it's either preseason or your team stinks". I took this personally. It hurt my inside. It cut me deep. It makes me sick that someone who follows our city's sports franchises and gets paid to be an "expert" comes out and says something so damning and ignorant about one of OUR guys. The Wagon is the butt of many jokes, and he NEVER lets it affect his play. He is the underdogg. The definition of the underdogg. And he doesn't shy away. He plays with his heart. And I'm sorry to say this Jerome, but it is these players that make teams great, not stink. It is players like Chuck that make sports pure. I wouldn't trade Chuck Hayes for any great four or five man- Dwight, Pau, LaMarcus, Dirk, ect.- because they couldn't hold Chuck's jockstrap when it comes to value for THIS team. We are going to hit stretches where the going gets tough. But I promise you that we won't back down. We will wear our hearts on our sleeves and fight. There is no quit in this team.
I may be getting over-emotional about this. After all, it is only the 3rd game of the season. But I feel it. I commited to this team and this commitment doesn't break for anybody. The Rockets and the Noles are what's great in my life. They are what makes me happy. And, if you have a problem understanding this, or if this love pisses you off then you are just jealous. I am truely blessed to have this purity in my life. I don't need anything else other than the Rocks, the Noles, Family and close friends.
I know I have not gotten into X's and O's about yesterday's victorious games, and I'm not going to. The metaphore that is yesterday, is much deeper. Yesterday made me truely greatful for what I have. I know it sounds weird, but it's true.
In closing, I want to say how excited I am for the Noles to be going to Death Valley next weekend to take on the Clemson Tigers in a prime time game. Our defense may not be up to snuff, but we will play hard. And all true Nole fans out there will follow this team, believe in this team, and want this team to suceed. Success is only achieved when everyone involved is commited. I am calling out all Noles to stand behind this team. It will be worth it in the end. I know we are just 4-4, but it is imperative that we stand our ground and give it everything we have as fans.
I would also like to express my excitement to having 79 more Rocket's games. We play in Utah tomorrow and against the Lakers on Wednesday. That is a Portland-Oakland-Portland-Mormon-Laker start to the season. Thank you for throwing us a bone NBA. Before tipoff of our first game at Portland, I said to myself that a 1-4 start to this opening stretch would be okay. But, after watching our team play, I readjusted my thoughts. Why not go 4-1? Who am I to set expectations on this team? I am in no position to do such a thing. Why can't we go all the way and win another Championship with our current roster? Why can't Tracy come back and be the player we all know he can be? Why can't Yao make miracles happen and come back at the end of the year for the playoff push? It was completly irresponsible for me to make expectations. There is no reason why these things can't happen. This is the greatness that this team instills in people. It is the greatness of sport. I truely believe we are going to win it all. The Rocket's propaganda has worked on me.
On another note, Snoop Dogg's new album "Malice in Wonderland" hits shelves on December 8th. Alicia Key's new album hits shelves the following week on December 15th. I hope everyone had a great Halloween. I am truely blessed.
Peace and God Bless,
Dos
-Chuck Hayes
This quote embodies the reason for my living. I know everyone knows that I love the Rockets, but in reality, they don't know. My love runs deeper than the "love" everyone else understands and knows. My love is my life. I would honestly take a bullett for any Rocket. Any Rocket. I would allow my life to be taken if it meant that the City of Houston could enjoy another Rocket World Championship. It's a passion that few in this world have the blessesed opportunity to experience.
Then, there are the Noles. Wow. The love runs even deeper. Besides my family and immidiate friends, there is nothing of greater importance in my life. My life may seem boring. It may seem stagnant. It may seem that it has no fun. But, you are wrong. My life is full. My life is complete. The feeling I get from watching us drive down the field and score with 1 minute and 30 seconds left after trailing by 4 points is all I need. It is a much greater feeling than anyone could imagine. It is difficult for others to understand, and I understand this.
An individual must have courage to feel the way I do about the Rockets and the Noles. It is a commitment. It is a lifestyle. It means ditching those around you that care most about you on a Friday or Saturday night to watch a sporting event. In the end, though, it is these people that understand you most. It is these people that respect what you stand for the most. Respect is all we have.
I truely believe in this quote: "We can't run from what we are. Our destiny chooses us."
The Rockets and the Noles chose me.
It is my personal belief that I was put on this earth for 2 things: to be a Nole fan and to be a Rocket fan. These two things are my priority. It is what I have. It is what will always be. They will never go away.
These two things cause heartache. They cause sadness. They cause confusion. They cause happiness. They cause belief. They cause dreaming. They cause greatness.
The Rockets and the Noles are more pure than anything else in this world. They do it all. Every single emotion you could possibly feel are embodied by the Rocket Organization and the Florida State University.
Don't get me wrong- I am a family and friend first guy. If one of my brothers, or one of my best friends needed ANYTHING, that would take precident over the Noles or the Rockets. But, after that, the Rockets and the Noles are all I have. They are me. They are the most pure thing in my life.
The Rocket's roster is an oxymoron. Saying "the NBA player Chuck Hayes" is an oxymoron. It doesn't make sense. Jerome Solomen (a Houston Chronicle writer) said the other day that if "Brian Cook and Chuck Hayes are in your starting lineup, it's either preseason or your team stinks". I took this personally. It hurt my inside. It cut me deep. It makes me sick that someone who follows our city's sports franchises and gets paid to be an "expert" comes out and says something so damning and ignorant about one of OUR guys. The Wagon is the butt of many jokes, and he NEVER lets it affect his play. He is the underdogg. The definition of the underdogg. And he doesn't shy away. He plays with his heart. And I'm sorry to say this Jerome, but it is these players that make teams great, not stink. It is players like Chuck that make sports pure. I wouldn't trade Chuck Hayes for any great four or five man- Dwight, Pau, LaMarcus, Dirk, ect.- because they couldn't hold Chuck's jockstrap when it comes to value for THIS team. We are going to hit stretches where the going gets tough. But I promise you that we won't back down. We will wear our hearts on our sleeves and fight. There is no quit in this team.
I may be getting over-emotional about this. After all, it is only the 3rd game of the season. But I feel it. I commited to this team and this commitment doesn't break for anybody. The Rockets and the Noles are what's great in my life. They are what makes me happy. And, if you have a problem understanding this, or if this love pisses you off then you are just jealous. I am truely blessed to have this purity in my life. I don't need anything else other than the Rocks, the Noles, Family and close friends.
I know I have not gotten into X's and O's about yesterday's victorious games, and I'm not going to. The metaphore that is yesterday, is much deeper. Yesterday made me truely greatful for what I have. I know it sounds weird, but it's true.
In closing, I want to say how excited I am for the Noles to be going to Death Valley next weekend to take on the Clemson Tigers in a prime time game. Our defense may not be up to snuff, but we will play hard. And all true Nole fans out there will follow this team, believe in this team, and want this team to suceed. Success is only achieved when everyone involved is commited. I am calling out all Noles to stand behind this team. It will be worth it in the end. I know we are just 4-4, but it is imperative that we stand our ground and give it everything we have as fans.
I would also like to express my excitement to having 79 more Rocket's games. We play in Utah tomorrow and against the Lakers on Wednesday. That is a Portland-Oakland-Portland-Mormon-Laker start to the season. Thank you for throwing us a bone NBA. Before tipoff of our first game at Portland, I said to myself that a 1-4 start to this opening stretch would be okay. But, after watching our team play, I readjusted my thoughts. Why not go 4-1? Who am I to set expectations on this team? I am in no position to do such a thing. Why can't we go all the way and win another Championship with our current roster? Why can't Tracy come back and be the player we all know he can be? Why can't Yao make miracles happen and come back at the end of the year for the playoff push? It was completly irresponsible for me to make expectations. There is no reason why these things can't happen. This is the greatness that this team instills in people. It is the greatness of sport. I truely believe we are going to win it all. The Rocket's propaganda has worked on me.
On another note, Snoop Dogg's new album "Malice in Wonderland" hits shelves on December 8th. Alicia Key's new album hits shelves the following week on December 15th. I hope everyone had a great Halloween. I am truely blessed.
Peace and God Bless,
Dos
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
