After years of being "close" in the Winter Olympics, the Americans have been exceeding all expectations at this year's games in Vancouver. They currently lead the medal count with 18 so far (with 9 days left), and are 7 medals ahead of the number 2 nation, Germany.
This is a leapfrog over the performance in Torino 4 years ago, where the Americans finished 2nd behind Germany (29-25 overall). The United States Olympic team has placed better emphasis in Winter Games in recent decades, and the efforts are showing. Just to give you an idea...
Lake Placid, 1980: 12 medals (3rd place, but 10 medals away from 2nd place USSR, and 11 less than East Germany)
Sarajevo, 1984: 8 medals (tied for 5th place, winner was the USSR with 25 medals)
Calgary, 1988: 6 medals (tied for 6th place, winner was USSR with 28 medals)
Albertville, 1992: 11 medals (6th place, winner was Germany with 26 medals)
Lillehammer, 1994: 13 medals (tied for 5th place, winner was Norway with 26 medals)
Nagano, 1998: 13 medals (6th place, winner was Germany with 29 medals)
Salt Lake City, 2002: 34 medals (2nd place, winner was Germany with 36 medals)
Torino, 2006: 25 medals (2nd place, winner was Germany with 29 medals)
America has only won the overall medal count in the Winter Olympics once, at the 1932 games in Lake Placid. It's nice to see our athletes perform so well on an international stage in a venue that they haven't always been so successful.
On a related note, the Russian team, who predicted they would win 40 medals (including 9 golds), are currently well back with 4 total medals, and only 1 gold.
Go Team USA!!!
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Friday, February 19, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
So That Was It?
Saw the Focus on the Family ad with Tim Tebow...and the only thing I have to say is "that's it?"
All this uproar over that? Hell, I wouldn't have really had a clue as to the whole point of the commercial if I wasn't already expecting to see it. I actually missed the first few seconds of it because it was so nondescript in nature.
The ad seemed harmless enough to me. Didn't even really touch anything controversial, just highlighted the fact that Tim Tebow is a good guy and seems to love his mother. Unless there was something really controversial said in those first few seconds, I don't quite know why this ad was so controversial...unless the idea of giving a link to Focus On The Family's website is somehow subsersive and evil in and of itself.
Meh, seems like it was really much ado about nothing.
Oh yeah, and congrats to the Saints for winning the Super Bowl. A solid enough game that really had to wondering who would win until late in the 4th quarter. I know I enjoyed it.
All this uproar over that? Hell, I wouldn't have really had a clue as to the whole point of the commercial if I wasn't already expecting to see it. I actually missed the first few seconds of it because it was so nondescript in nature.
The ad seemed harmless enough to me. Didn't even really touch anything controversial, just highlighted the fact that Tim Tebow is a good guy and seems to love his mother. Unless there was something really controversial said in those first few seconds, I don't quite know why this ad was so controversial...unless the idea of giving a link to Focus On The Family's website is somehow subsersive and evil in and of itself.
Meh, seems like it was really much ado about nothing.
Oh yeah, and congrats to the Saints for winning the Super Bowl. A solid enough game that really had to wondering who would win until late in the 4th quarter. I know I enjoyed it.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Kurt Warner Retires
One of greatest QBs I've ever seen (behind only Joe Montana, IMO), and one of humanity's most decent representatives, decided to hang up his cleats today.
We all know his story. He went from a mid-major college starter, to an Arena League standout and grocery stockboy. He met his current wife when he was stocking shelves and she was a cashier. They are still together. He replaces the injured Trent Green in 1999, when Green was touted as the savior of the lowly St. Louis Rams franchise, and rallies them to a 13-3 record and a victory in one of the best Super Bowls ever played.
He would go to two more Super Bowls (Rams vs. Patriots, and last year he took the Cardinals to the Big Game vs. the Steelers), falling short to the two best teams of the decade. A devout Christian, Warner was never caught in a scandalous position, and never complained when coaches tried to replace him with the "next big thing" (Marc Bulger in St. Louis, Eli Manning in New York).
In his 12 seasons with the Rams, Giants, and Cardinals, Warner threw 208 touchdowns with a completion percentage of 65.5% and a career QB rating of 93.7...but his stats may have been even more prolific had he not been used as a backup QB for a few years. He had an overall winning percentage of 58.0% as a starter, including winning nearly 73% of the time in the playoffs.
I raise my evening spirit in toast to Kurt Warner. A great QB and a hell of a role model.
We all know his story. He went from a mid-major college starter, to an Arena League standout and grocery stockboy. He met his current wife when he was stocking shelves and she was a cashier. They are still together. He replaces the injured Trent Green in 1999, when Green was touted as the savior of the lowly St. Louis Rams franchise, and rallies them to a 13-3 record and a victory in one of the best Super Bowls ever played.
He would go to two more Super Bowls (Rams vs. Patriots, and last year he took the Cardinals to the Big Game vs. the Steelers), falling short to the two best teams of the decade. A devout Christian, Warner was never caught in a scandalous position, and never complained when coaches tried to replace him with the "next big thing" (Marc Bulger in St. Louis, Eli Manning in New York).
In his 12 seasons with the Rams, Giants, and Cardinals, Warner threw 208 touchdowns with a completion percentage of 65.5% and a career QB rating of 93.7...but his stats may have been even more prolific had he not been used as a backup QB for a few years. He had an overall winning percentage of 58.0% as a starter, including winning nearly 73% of the time in the playoffs.
I raise my evening spirit in toast to Kurt Warner. A great QB and a hell of a role model.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
2009 NFL Season Kudos
The Podium extends kudos for the NFL Regular Season to...
- Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans, who became only the 6th player in NFL history to run for over 2000 yards in a single season.
- Brett Farve of the Minnesota Vikings, who had one of his best seasons ever and turned 40 years old in 2009.
- Kurt Warner of the Arizona Cardinals, for being awesome and a great role model once again.
- To the San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, and the New Orleans Saints for ripping off double-digit win streaks this season.
Congrats to all of the NFL playoff teams as well...we'll have predictions up later this week.
- Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans, who became only the 6th player in NFL history to run for over 2000 yards in a single season.
- Brett Farve of the Minnesota Vikings, who had one of his best seasons ever and turned 40 years old in 2009.
- Kurt Warner of the Arizona Cardinals, for being awesome and a great role model once again.
- To the San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, and the New Orleans Saints for ripping off double-digit win streaks this season.
Congrats to all of the NFL playoff teams as well...we'll have predictions up later this week.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Another D.C.-Area Icon Passes...
George Michael (the sportscaster, not the singer) passed away this morning at the age of 70 after his battle with cancer.
He was the man who gave us "George Michael's Sports Machine" late on Sunday nights, which was the forerunner to SportsCenter. He was a mainstay on NBC 4, and host of Redskins Report for many, many years. George brought a level of energy and enthusiasm that was combined with perfect timing, a very distinct voice, and credible reporting.
I remember when I was little, when cable was in it's more primitive stages and Pay-Per-View was not an option for us with so few funds, I would stay up late on the nights of Pro Wrestling PPV's, and wait for George to give the results and clips from the show.
When I think back to growing up in the glory days of the Redskins in the 80's and early 90's, two voices ring loudly to me...Frank Herzog's play-by-play (Touchdown! Washington Redskins!...so iconic), and George Michael hosting Redskins Report and interviewing players during the week on the 5 and 6 o'clock news.
My thoughts and prayers go out to George's family and friends. He will be truly missed by all of us who grew up in the D.C. area.
He was the man who gave us "George Michael's Sports Machine" late on Sunday nights, which was the forerunner to SportsCenter. He was a mainstay on NBC 4, and host of Redskins Report for many, many years. George brought a level of energy and enthusiasm that was combined with perfect timing, a very distinct voice, and credible reporting.
I remember when I was little, when cable was in it's more primitive stages and Pay-Per-View was not an option for us with so few funds, I would stay up late on the nights of Pro Wrestling PPV's, and wait for George to give the results and clips from the show.
When I think back to growing up in the glory days of the Redskins in the 80's and early 90's, two voices ring loudly to me...Frank Herzog's play-by-play (Touchdown! Washington Redskins!...so iconic), and George Michael hosting Redskins Report and interviewing players during the week on the 5 and 6 o'clock news.
My thoughts and prayers go out to George's family and friends. He will be truly missed by all of us who grew up in the D.C. area.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
To Bengals Fans
My heart goes out to the Bengals players, staff, and their families as well as the fans. Us Redskins fans know all too well what it is like to find out that one of your promising young stars, who has made a turn for the better in their life and career, has their life cut tragically short.
Monday, December 14, 2009
LeBron James Wants Fries With That
A little harmless fun and showboating by one of the best players in the league today...
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Joe Gibbs to Announce Retirement Later Today...?
That's what we believe today's 3 pm press conference will be about.
Kudos to Gibbs, who took the Redskins to more playoff appearances in 4 years (2) than they had managed in the previous 12 (1).
Rumor has it Bill Cowher is going to succeed Gibbs, and has even been taking his daughter around local universities (GMU, GW) on recruiting trips, as she is a high school basketball star.
We shall see...
Kudos to Gibbs, who took the Redskins to more playoff appearances in 4 years (2) than they had managed in the previous 12 (1).
Rumor has it Bill Cowher is going to succeed Gibbs, and has even been taking his daughter around local universities (GMU, GW) on recruiting trips, as she is a high school basketball star.
We shall see...
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The Ride is Over...
...but it was fun while it lasted.
The Redskins late-season surge ended with a 35-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks yesterday. Though they lost by 21 points, the game was much closer than the score indicates.
Both teams found yardage hard to come by, but the Seahawks were able to turn an early advantage in field position into 13 points in the first 3 quarters.
Down 13-0 as the 4th Quarter started, Todd Collins found Antwaan Randle-El for a 7 yard touchdown pass to bring the Redskins within 6. Suddenly, Safety LaRon Landry invoked images of the fallen Sean Taylor, intercepting a Matt Hasselbeck pass 2 plays later to set up a 30-yard Collins-to-Santana Moss touchdown, and give the Redskins a 14-13 lead.
The Redskins got a gift when Nate Burleson failed to catch the ensuing kickoff and the Skins recovered. However, the drive stalled and the normally-reliable Shawn Suisham missed a 30-yard field goal by mere inches. The Seahawks moved down the field, but Landry picked off his second pass of the day, but the Redskins failed to move the ball, and poor punt by Derrick Frost allowed provided the Seahawks with both good field position and momentum. Seattle promptly drove down the field and scored a touchdown with a 2-point conversion to take the 21-14 lead with just over 6 minutes remaining in the game.
Todd Collins tried to will the Redskins back down the field, but overthrew Santana Moss on a long sideline pass, and Marcus Trufant picked off the floater and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown. With 27 seconds left, Collins was intercepted again by Jordan Babineaux, who returned the pick 57 yards for the final score.
Collins should be lauded for his efforts, and went 29-50 for 266 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. Clinton Portis found no room to run, gaining 52 yards on 20 carries, but added 28 yards on 4 receptions. Antwaan Randle-El caught 10 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown, and Moss added 6 catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. All-Pro TE Chris Cooley had a quiet afternoon, snagging 5 catches for 46 yards.
Credit the Redskins for not giving up when down, just like they never gave up when they were sitting with a record of 5-7 and playoff hopes were bleak. This team has shown a lot of heart and character throughout the season, and should be a strong contender next year with a mature Jason Campbell and a young-but-battled-tested core of players.
In last night's other playoff game, the Jacksonville Jaguars upended the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-29 in an incredible game that saw the Steelers come back from 18 points down in the 4th Quarter to take the lead, only to have Jacksonville kick the game winning field goal with 37 seconds left.
The Redskins late-season surge ended with a 35-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks yesterday. Though they lost by 21 points, the game was much closer than the score indicates.
Both teams found yardage hard to come by, but the Seahawks were able to turn an early advantage in field position into 13 points in the first 3 quarters.
Down 13-0 as the 4th Quarter started, Todd Collins found Antwaan Randle-El for a 7 yard touchdown pass to bring the Redskins within 6. Suddenly, Safety LaRon Landry invoked images of the fallen Sean Taylor, intercepting a Matt Hasselbeck pass 2 plays later to set up a 30-yard Collins-to-Santana Moss touchdown, and give the Redskins a 14-13 lead.
The Redskins got a gift when Nate Burleson failed to catch the ensuing kickoff and the Skins recovered. However, the drive stalled and the normally-reliable Shawn Suisham missed a 30-yard field goal by mere inches. The Seahawks moved down the field, but Landry picked off his second pass of the day, but the Redskins failed to move the ball, and poor punt by Derrick Frost allowed provided the Seahawks with both good field position and momentum. Seattle promptly drove down the field and scored a touchdown with a 2-point conversion to take the 21-14 lead with just over 6 minutes remaining in the game.
Todd Collins tried to will the Redskins back down the field, but overthrew Santana Moss on a long sideline pass, and Marcus Trufant picked off the floater and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown. With 27 seconds left, Collins was intercepted again by Jordan Babineaux, who returned the pick 57 yards for the final score.
Collins should be lauded for his efforts, and went 29-50 for 266 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. Clinton Portis found no room to run, gaining 52 yards on 20 carries, but added 28 yards on 4 receptions. Antwaan Randle-El caught 10 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown, and Moss added 6 catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. All-Pro TE Chris Cooley had a quiet afternoon, snagging 5 catches for 46 yards.
Credit the Redskins for not giving up when down, just like they never gave up when they were sitting with a record of 5-7 and playoff hopes were bleak. This team has shown a lot of heart and character throughout the season, and should be a strong contender next year with a mature Jason Campbell and a young-but-battled-tested core of players.
In last night's other playoff game, the Jacksonville Jaguars upended the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-29 in an incredible game that saw the Steelers come back from 18 points down in the 4th Quarter to take the lead, only to have Jacksonville kick the game winning field goal with 37 seconds left.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Debates Tonight, Redskins in 10 Minutes!
Be sure to tune in to NBC at 4:30 to watch the Washington Redskins stomp the Seattle Seahawks. If you're at work, you can follow the game via the live coverage from ESPN on your computer.
Also, remember that there will be debates for both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party tonight starting at 7 pm on ABC. If the Skins game doesn't go into OT, that's going to be over 7 hours of football and politics.
All I need is a 6-pack, and I'll be set for the evening!
Also, remember that there will be debates for both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party tonight starting at 7 pm on ABC. If the Skins game doesn't go into OT, that's going to be over 7 hours of football and politics.
All I need is a 6-pack, and I'll be set for the evening!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Heart, Guts, Talent...Skins Thump Dallas, Make Playoffs
The equation holds true.
Skins/Cowboys + Skins at home x Something important at stake = Redskins Victory.
The Redskins dominated the Dallas Cowboys for 60 minutes yesterday, and will be heading into the playoffs on a 4 game winning streak after their convincing 27-6 victory.
Clinton Portis bulled his way through the vaunted Dallas defense for 104 yards on 25 carries and 2 touchdowns, and became the only player this season to rush for over 100 yards against the Cowboys. Todd Collins carved up the Dallas secondary with precision timing and accuracy. Collins went 22-31 for 244 yards and a 42-yard touchdown pass to Santana Moss that sealed the victory for the Redskins.
Moss finished the day with a total of 8 catches for 115 yards to go along with his touchdown reception.
The defense put on one of it's greatest efforts of the season, holding the Cowboy rushing attack to only 1 yard, which is a new Dallas franchise-low for a single game. Media darling Tony Romo was humbled by the Redskins, going only 7-16 for a mere 86 yards and 1 INT before leaving the game in the 3rd quarter after the Redskins had gone up 20-3 and were firmly in control of the game.
Redskins outgained the Cowboys in total offense by a margin of 354-147.
The Redskins will face the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the playoffs. The game will be at Qwest Field in Seattle, and will start at 4:30 ET on Saturday, January 5th. The game will be televised on NBC.
Key Redskin stats from the regular season...
Clinton Portis had another fine year...325 carries, 1262 yards, 11 TDs, as well as 47 receptions and 389 yards out of the backfield.
Before going down with an injury in week 13 against Chicago, Jason Campbell was having a pretty good year despite the "growing pains" of a young quarterback. Campbell went 250-417 (60% comp), 2700 yards, 12 TDs and 11 INTs in 12 1/2 games.
Todd Collins has filled in for Campbell with spectacular play over the final 3 1/2 games. Collins has gone 67-105 (63.8%), 888 yards, 5 TDs and 0 INTs.
Santana Moss turned it up in the final half of the season, finishing with 61 rec, 808 yards, and 3 TDs. Chris Cooley had a Pro-Bowl season with 66 rec, 786 yards, and 8 TDs.
Defensive leaders...
Tackles - London Fletcher - 129 (101 solo)
Tackles For Loss - Anthony Montgomery - 5.5
Sacks - Andre Carter - 10.5
Forced Fumbles - Andre Carter/Phillip Daniels - 4
INTs - the late Sean Taylor with 5 for 98 yards
On a Final Note...
Does anyone else just love watching Brett Farve play? I don't think anyone has simply enjoyed the game of football the way Farve has in his career. He has had his best season in a decade at the age of 38, and his "low-fiving" the referee after a touchdown pass yesterday was a perfect depiction of how much Brett Farve loves playing football. We need more guys like this in professional sports.
Skins/Cowboys + Skins at home x Something important at stake = Redskins Victory.
The Redskins dominated the Dallas Cowboys for 60 minutes yesterday, and will be heading into the playoffs on a 4 game winning streak after their convincing 27-6 victory.
Clinton Portis bulled his way through the vaunted Dallas defense for 104 yards on 25 carries and 2 touchdowns, and became the only player this season to rush for over 100 yards against the Cowboys. Todd Collins carved up the Dallas secondary with precision timing and accuracy. Collins went 22-31 for 244 yards and a 42-yard touchdown pass to Santana Moss that sealed the victory for the Redskins.
Moss finished the day with a total of 8 catches for 115 yards to go along with his touchdown reception.
The defense put on one of it's greatest efforts of the season, holding the Cowboy rushing attack to only 1 yard, which is a new Dallas franchise-low for a single game. Media darling Tony Romo was humbled by the Redskins, going only 7-16 for a mere 86 yards and 1 INT before leaving the game in the 3rd quarter after the Redskins had gone up 20-3 and were firmly in control of the game.
Redskins outgained the Cowboys in total offense by a margin of 354-147.
The Redskins will face the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the playoffs. The game will be at Qwest Field in Seattle, and will start at 4:30 ET on Saturday, January 5th. The game will be televised on NBC.
Key Redskin stats from the regular season...
Clinton Portis had another fine year...325 carries, 1262 yards, 11 TDs, as well as 47 receptions and 389 yards out of the backfield.
Before going down with an injury in week 13 against Chicago, Jason Campbell was having a pretty good year despite the "growing pains" of a young quarterback. Campbell went 250-417 (60% comp), 2700 yards, 12 TDs and 11 INTs in 12 1/2 games.
Todd Collins has filled in for Campbell with spectacular play over the final 3 1/2 games. Collins has gone 67-105 (63.8%), 888 yards, 5 TDs and 0 INTs.
Santana Moss turned it up in the final half of the season, finishing with 61 rec, 808 yards, and 3 TDs. Chris Cooley had a Pro-Bowl season with 66 rec, 786 yards, and 8 TDs.
Defensive leaders...
Tackles - London Fletcher - 129 (101 solo)
Tackles For Loss - Anthony Montgomery - 5.5
Sacks - Andre Carter - 10.5
Forced Fumbles - Andre Carter/Phillip Daniels - 4
INTs - the late Sean Taylor with 5 for 98 yards
On a Final Note...
Does anyone else just love watching Brett Farve play? I don't think anyone has simply enjoyed the game of football the way Farve has in his career. He has had his best season in a decade at the age of 38, and his "low-fiving" the referee after a touchdown pass yesterday was a perfect depiction of how much Brett Farve loves playing football. We need more guys like this in professional sports.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
When Senators Have Nothing Else To Do
Sen. John Kerry wrote a letter to NFL Commissioner regarding the fact that the game between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants will be shown on NFL Network on Sunday evening, instead of on NBC where it can be seen by many more people without having to subscribe to the NFL network. Both teams have clinched playoff spots, but the game is notable as the Patriots look to become the first team since the 1972 Miami Dolphins to go undefeated in a regular season, and the first team to go undefeated since the schedule was expanded to 16 games in 1978.
In fact, Sen. Kerry is threatening to hold Senate hearings against the NFL if they don't make this broadcast more available.
"I remain deeply troubled that today as many as 250,000 Massachusetts households, and millions of Patriots fans nationwide, may be denied access to this historic sporting event," Kerry wrote.
Err, deeply troubled? We've got military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, rumblings about the economy, a Senate that will be back in session full-time in a few weeks, divisive feelings across the political spectrum, Russia selling a missile defense shield to Iran, and we're coming up on an election year.
With all of that going on in the world, what "deeply troubles" John Kerry is that not enough people will see the New England Patriots (who also happen to play in Foxborough, Massachusetts...the same state from which Kerry hails) finish an undefeated season.
Now, tell me Sen. Kerry, would you be as troubled if it was...oh, let's say, the Washington Redskins that were on the cusp of an undefeated season?
Yeah, I didn't think so...
In fact, Sen. Kerry is threatening to hold Senate hearings against the NFL if they don't make this broadcast more available.
"I remain deeply troubled that today as many as 250,000 Massachusetts households, and millions of Patriots fans nationwide, may be denied access to this historic sporting event," Kerry wrote.
Err, deeply troubled? We've got military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, rumblings about the economy, a Senate that will be back in session full-time in a few weeks, divisive feelings across the political spectrum, Russia selling a missile defense shield to Iran, and we're coming up on an election year.
With all of that going on in the world, what "deeply troubles" John Kerry is that not enough people will see the New England Patriots (who also happen to play in Foxborough, Massachusetts...the same state from which Kerry hails) finish an undefeated season.
Now, tell me Sen. Kerry, would you be as troubled if it was...oh, let's say, the Washington Redskins that were on the cusp of an undefeated season?
Yeah, I didn't think so...
Monday, December 24, 2007
Redskins Take Matters Into Their Own Hands
The Redskins came into the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome last night with a sense of purpose, drive, desire, and momentum.
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Pro Bowl Announced, Sean Taylor Makes Team Posthumously
Taylor actually was the top vote-getter at free safety for the NFC, and had been the top vote-getter even before his death. Still, it is a tribute to both his hard work on the field and his untimely death.
Teams with the most Pro Bowlers - Dallas with 11, New England and San Diego with 8 each, Minnesota with 6 each, Seattle and Indianapolis with 5 each, Green Bay, Chicago, and Pittsburgh with 4 each
The Washington Redskins will send a total of 3 players to the Pro Bowl, the aforementioned Taylor, as well as LT Chris Samuels and TE Chris Cooley.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, who have a 10-4 record after this past weekend, sent nobody to the Pro Bowl. This came as a surprise to some. However, one must keep in mind that Pro Bowl voting is done by the fans...which partially explains why the 12-2 Dallas Cowboys (with their large fanbase) are sending 11 players to the Pro Bowl, but the undefeated Patriots are only sending 8 and the 12-2 Green Bay Packers are only sending 4.
Teams with the most Pro Bowlers - Dallas with 11, New England and San Diego with 8 each, Minnesota with 6 each, Seattle and Indianapolis with 5 each, Green Bay, Chicago, and Pittsburgh with 4 each
The Washington Redskins will send a total of 3 players to the Pro Bowl, the aforementioned Taylor, as well as LT Chris Samuels and TE Chris Cooley.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, who have a 10-4 record after this past weekend, sent nobody to the Pro Bowl. This came as a surprise to some. However, one must keep in mind that Pro Bowl voting is done by the fans...which partially explains why the 12-2 Dallas Cowboys (with their large fanbase) are sending 11 players to the Pro Bowl, but the undefeated Patriots are only sending 8 and the 12-2 Green Bay Packers are only sending 4.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Playoff Hopes Still Alive: Skins Beat Giants
Hail to the Redskins! They triumphed over their divisional rival, the New York Giants, 22-10 despite a frigid, swirling wind that wreaked havoc on the passing and kicking game of both teams. They won due to tough defense, a strong running game, and a solid gameplan.
Clinton Portis ran for over 120 yards and a touchdown. Todd Collins, filling in for the injured Jason Campbell, made his first start in a decade and threw for 166 yards, including 75 yards to Santana Moss, who he hit twice on deep passes. The offensive line looked solid, the defense played a good "bend-but-don't-break" style.
Next week, the Redskins (7-7) will be playing at Minnesota (7-6, plays Chicago tonight on MNF) in the game that could decide who gets the final playoff spot in the NFC.
The Giants (9-5) will take on the Chicago Bears next week.
Clinton Portis ran for over 120 yards and a touchdown. Todd Collins, filling in for the injured Jason Campbell, made his first start in a decade and threw for 166 yards, including 75 yards to Santana Moss, who he hit twice on deep passes. The offensive line looked solid, the defense played a good "bend-but-don't-break" style.
Next week, the Redskins (7-7) will be playing at Minnesota (7-6, plays Chicago tonight on MNF) in the game that could decide who gets the final playoff spot in the NFC.
The Giants (9-5) will take on the Chicago Bears next week.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Friday, December 7, 2007
Heisman Will Be Decided Monday
This insane college football season has boiled down to two things. Ohio State vs. LSU and the Heisman Trophy winner. I was kinda rooting for a WVU/Missouri championship game, but alas both teams failed me.
- Right now, I'm hoping and praying LSU wins...I only like Ohio State when they play Michigan :)
- As for the Heisman, Florida Gators QB Tim Tebow should win. Tebow set an all-time NCAA single-season record for rushing TD's by a QB...and he also was excellent through the air, as well. However, even more excellent than Tebow's legs and arm would be his girlfriend. She's hotter than one of Tebow's rocket-powered throws.
Hehe, sorry...I couldn't resist. I have heard (and I'm being honest here) that she is an exceptionally bright woman. Brains, beauty, and a Heisman Trophy...Tim Tebow can't get much luckier than that.
In other sports news...
- This weekend will be the Floyd Mayweather/Ricky Hatton fight. It's a battle of undefeated boxers, Mayweather at 38-0 and Hatton at 43-0. The last time Mayweather was in a "big fight" was when he won a 12-round decision against Oscar de la Hoya (that was a bit of a BS decision, in my opinion and in the opinions of many others). Hatton is a brawling, hard-hitting boxer who has a strong jaw and fears nobody. Mayweather is a slick, stylistic boxer who is a much better "point-scorer" than Hatton. However, Hatton believes that Mayweather has never been hit hard by a puncher like himself, and that he will wear out Mayweather and come out of this bout victorious.
My opinion...Hatton will punk out Mayweather, even though I like both guys. Mayweather hasn't faced anyone like this before, and he won't be able to run forever from Hatton, because once Hatton traps him in a corner, Mayweather will have to face Hatton's sledgehammer-like punches.
- Steelers/Patriots...if the Steelers don't beat the Pats, then New England goes undefeated. Simple as that. Nobody else left will challenge them like Pittsburgh will. I think the Steelers can pull out a win, here.
Then again, I also said that the Colts would hand New England their first loss and that the Redskins would give the Patriots a good game, which shows you what I know.
- Right now, I'm hoping and praying LSU wins...I only like Ohio State when they play Michigan :)
- As for the Heisman, Florida Gators QB Tim Tebow should win. Tebow set an all-time NCAA single-season record for rushing TD's by a QB...and he also was excellent through the air, as well. However, even more excellent than Tebow's legs and arm would be his girlfriend. She's hotter than one of Tebow's rocket-powered throws.
Hehe, sorry...I couldn't resist. I have heard (and I'm being honest here) that she is an exceptionally bright woman. Brains, beauty, and a Heisman Trophy...Tim Tebow can't get much luckier than that.
In other sports news...
- This weekend will be the Floyd Mayweather/Ricky Hatton fight. It's a battle of undefeated boxers, Mayweather at 38-0 and Hatton at 43-0. The last time Mayweather was in a "big fight" was when he won a 12-round decision against Oscar de la Hoya (that was a bit of a BS decision, in my opinion and in the opinions of many others). Hatton is a brawling, hard-hitting boxer who has a strong jaw and fears nobody. Mayweather is a slick, stylistic boxer who is a much better "point-scorer" than Hatton. However, Hatton believes that Mayweather has never been hit hard by a puncher like himself, and that he will wear out Mayweather and come out of this bout victorious.
My opinion...Hatton will punk out Mayweather, even though I like both guys. Mayweather hasn't faced anyone like this before, and he won't be able to run forever from Hatton, because once Hatton traps him in a corner, Mayweather will have to face Hatton's sledgehammer-like punches.
- Steelers/Patriots...if the Steelers don't beat the Pats, then New England goes undefeated. Simple as that. Nobody else left will challenge them like Pittsburgh will. I think the Steelers can pull out a win, here.
Then again, I also said that the Colts would hand New England their first loss and that the Redskins would give the Patriots a good game, which shows you what I know.
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