Fire him or support him!

the bulls need to do something. look i dont think Vinny will be the coach in June. I mean he doesnt help bring big name free agents to the bulls this summer so im sure he will be gone. But, Gar Foreman and Pax need to say either he is safe for this season or fire him right now and name an interim coach. This story has gotten ridiculous. And last night, Gar tries to address the issue and only says that Vinny is the coach right now. I dont understand what the problem is. Either you think Vinny gives you the best chance to win this year or you dont. If you dont, then can his ass. Any coach you try and bring in during the season probably cant install his own system anyway. I'm sick of this story. Do something either way.

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nba/news/story?id=4780377

Good win, another reason to can Lovie!

Look i am very happy the bears won last night. I love beating Brett Favre and the vikings. Love it. Plus i have been telling Elliott that the Bears could beat the vikes all year and he has called me crazy. Cutler looked great and the o-line played their best game of the year. But, i would like to place blame on Lovie for two problems. One, how have Devin Aromashadu and Craig Steltz been on the bench all year when they were the MVPs of this game and maybe the biggest factors in beating a team that could go to the superbowl?

Second and my biggest issue is how do you keep calling the cover - 2 defense after getting shredded by Favre. Lovie played the bullshit cover-2 D all 2nd half and just let Farve throw 8 yd passes and kill the bears. He rushed 4 and dropped the other 7 10 yards down the field. How do you not adjust your defensive playcalling after 23 straight points? Teams have realized how to beat the cover-2 and Lovie continues to call it. If he cant realize that as the defensive coordinator then why would i want him to be my head coach. Great win and here's to hoping it doesnt save Lovie's job!

T-Mac would look good in a bullies uni

Tracy McGrady has asked for a trade. Is he the T-Mac superstar of old? No, he isnt but do i think he could be a scorer for 20-25 mins a game. Absolutely! Considering how much the bulls have had problems scoring, why not ship Jerome James and his ridic salary to the Rockets for T-Mac's ridic salary and see if he can help the bulls. I mean James doesnt play and T-Mac's salary expires at the end of the year anyway. the bulls would have to throw in brad miller but would that really be that big of a loss. Just an idea.

http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/rockets-mcgrady-122809

Bye Bye Monopoly Man

Look, it wasnt the perfect trade but it was better than i thought it was gonna be. Total out of the deal the cubs make 3 mill. But, what else are the cubs gonna do? I mean they lost out on Matt Capps to the nationals. Does anyone really want to go there? The collection of CFs they are potentially looking at makes me yawn. Bascially, the cubs will be going into next season with the same team miss the monopoly man. Does that really make them contenders with most of their lineup a year older? Man, so glad i get to pay extra money this year for my tickets and the same team that didnt make the playoffs last year............

Lovie's swan song????

I guess what else could Jerry Angelo say? He said that the team's end of the year performance would be taken into effect into any coaching decision the team makes and money would not be a deciding factor before the game. And then the bears go out and lay a 31-7 stinker. Two weeks ago i did tell you that there was no way that lovie would be gone but now more and more im thinking he is gone. Cutler looks like me playing quarterback, the WRs are lost and i think the defense has adopted ron artest's hennessy gameday drinking ways. I mean this team has quit on Lovie and his message is obviously not getting through any more. How can he stay? Atleast this will give me a chance to rebuild the bears on madden.....

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=4759793

Ty Thomas

ive been re-writing this post for about a week. so here we go.

So the rumors are that the bulls are shopping ty thomas. Am i happy about it? i think so. It atleast it means that gar foreman and paxson are thinking ahead. Look the bulls aren't a good team. at best they are a mediocre team which is what we have seen the past couple of weeks. Does Ty make them a better team? yes he does but i think its obvious that the bulls dont see him in their future plans. and would a guy like al harrington help you score points this year and give you cap relief? yep. atleast this may signal that gar and pax have identified an avenue for this team and Ty doesnt fit it. Either way the bulls need more players who can score, not look confused on offense and jack up 18 footers like ty.

Lovie gots to go

Did anyone else watch the game yesterday? Was anyone else embarrassed to be a bears fan while doing so? David Haugh wrote a great column in the tribune that addresses lovie's problems. http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-14-haugh-bears-packers-dec14,0,6480311.column

Basically, how do the bears evaluate talent? i mean jamar williams last week had the best performance of a bears LB in 4 years and yet he can only get on the field for half the snaps of a very average defense?

Devin Aromashodu? now i see why he has been sitting on the bench the whole year. i mean it was only one game against the best defense in the nfl and being covered by probably the NFL defensive player of the year. no big deal we have other wrs that could do that.

I mean didnt this game and the whole year make you question Lovie's control and decision making? The timeout/challenge debacle in the 4th was unbelievable. A 7 yr old madden player could tell you that you dont waste 2 timeouts on the same play. and Lovie just bent over and took it. apparently by his face he didnt mind that much.

plus, remember at the beginning of the year Lovie took on the defensive play calling so that it all falls on him. how many times have teams driven on the bears defense in the 4th quarter for the good ahead TDs? As i recall, it happen in both packers games, falcons, eagles, and niners. that would be 5 games that the defense and coordinator have let go. please tell me someone at halas hall is aware of that too. im fine with having a coach that doesnt get too fired up on the sidelines but when it looks like your coach doesnt care, how can you expect the team to care?

I'm starting to the campaign for Jim Harbaugh as coach in 2010!

cubs trade

so the cubs shipped jake fox and aaron miles to the A's and basically got prospects back. i have no problem with the trade. they added to their farm system which we all know they need to do. i mean they basically still have the same players on their bench. Fox hit well last year but he will never be a full time player in the NL. He is kinda of like Cerano from Major League, he cant hit a curveball. i just wondered if he sacrificed a whole fried chicken to Jubo before big games. Hoffpaiur gives you a lefty Fox off the bench. Thank god Aaron Miles is gone with his todd hundley like season. Andres Blanco has a better glove and is more versatile anyway. ill continue to hold my breath on this offseason till Milt the shithead is gone.

Next year is here

alright readers, sorry its been so long between posts. This year for the bears is done. Lets just try to win as many games as we can so denver doesnt get too good of a pick. I think some players showed some upside and potential to contribute next year on sunday. Chris Williams has been advertised as the LT of the future and he didnt play bad except letting chris long torch him on one play. I think he will be playing LT for the rest of the season in order to see what he has.

Jamar Williams impressed the hell out of me. The guy was flying around on the field and was in on every tackle. I mean 18 tackles in a game?!?!?! This kid needs to play more and i dont care which LB sits so it can happen. If he is able to play like this for the rest of the season, i think you are looking at the new running partner of urlacher and briggs.

Gaines Adams and Jaron Gilbert. Where are you? I understand Lovie has to win to try and save his job but Angelo needs to command Lovie to play the young guys to see what they got. Both look like the typical Angelo draft pick. Great workout numbers and not really football players. These guys need to be contributors next season if the bears have a hope of having a winning record. Wally, you have played your ass off for us but Lovie needs to sit you to see what the kids can do.

I wish the bears had more young guys to get experience these last 4 games but really it would only be the WRs, guard Lance Louis (he hits his own teammates, he has to be a better blocker than omiyale) and CB D.J. Moore. I think these guys have to get on the field and see if they can show something.

Offseason shopping list

Look, the bears are gonna go into the offseason trying to win next season. while i hate not having a #1 or #2 draft pick, those players probably wont be big contributors next season anyway. As i see it, the bears are gonna need to sign 5 starters in order for this team to be good.

1. A vetern free safety - the bears need a guy they can trust to not let wrs behind him and someone punish wrs going up for the deep ball. I think this is the single biggest need for the bears.

2. LG - everyone who reads this knows my opinion of omiyale. people say his natural position is RT and that he should be in the running for the job next year. his natural position is the bench! The bears need a LG who can come in and give the line a mean edge. I could only hope for a Steve Hutchinson type of player but i would settle for a solid vetern who likes to run block.

3. RT - Remember John St. Clair. He was a better RT than anything the bears have started this year. A RT is supposed to be a better run blocker and more physical than the LT. The bears might have to pay a premium for one but we have seen what a medicore line will get you.

4. LE - Wally will be allowed to leave and i dont blame the bears for doing so. He beats up on average or worst tackles but isnt a playmaker against a good RT. The bears need a playmaker at both end spots and they need someone who demands a double team. A little birdie told me that Aaron Kampman is a free agent and wants to get back to being a lineman every down. 10 sacks a year for the last 3 years would look awfully good in a bears uni. Still cant believe the packers moved him to a rush end in a 3-4.

5. DT - Look i know tommie harris has looked better as he is now healthy but he needs a partner down there in the trenches. preferably a large giant of a man how demands two blockers on run plays.

- i would love to see an impact WR come to the bears but it will cost them and i think these 5 positions are more important to their success. The bears this season are getting beat at the line of scrimmage and that has to change in order for them to have any kind of success next season.

Lovie's Future

look, im gonna say that i dont think there is a chance in hell that the bears fire lovie. it will cost them too much money and bringing in a new coach probably resigns them to a losing/rebuilding season next year. Turner has to be gone if nothing else but because lovie wont go. (I dont really blame turner for having one of the worst o-lines in football, not a whole lot you can do when if your QB holds the ball for 3 seconds, he gets killed). I think marinelli will be elevated to D-coordinator and lovie will not change a thing on the defensive staff.

With lovie returning the bears will go into the offseason looking to sign some veterns (and probably over pay) in order to try and win next year and save lovie's job. i certainly dont trust angelo to evaluate talent but he will anyway. I not sure what is gonna be worse. watching the bears for the last 4 games or their offseason moves.

ill leave you with an excerpt describing the guy i want as the bears coach (a man can dream):

from espn.com, an article about possible Weis replacements

There's no question he's a brilliant football coach, especially for offenses. His teams at San Diego (the college version) were fantastic, his tutoring of quarterbacks has been phenomenal and his arrogance and attitude have been a plus for teams in need of arrogance and attitude. But he's not necessarily going to be a P.C. sort of figurehead who might fit in with the image Notre Dame wants to project. Remember, he was out of the running for the open Michigan job a few years ago before he was even a candidate after dogging the academic side of things under Lloyd Carr.

There's also the Gruden-like issue of his career goals. In a heartbeat he might turn out to be the hottest NFL coaching prospect from the college ranks, especially after the success his brother, John Harbaugh, is having with the Baltimore Ravens. But Harbaugh says he loves coaching at Stanford and isn't looking around, he can stay the head coach as long as he wants to, or at least through the extension that goes through 2014, and most importantly, he has a sweet $70,000 office bathroom. And yeah, he's just wacky enough that he really might stick around.

yes that would be good ole #4. Jim Harbaugh. The last old bears player to coach the team had pretty good results. Dare we try again..............

Bets for Week 13

Had a rough one last week going 6-9. Still up for the season but hopeful this week is good. I think there are gonna be a lot of close games this week. Here they are:

Bills +3 v. Jets

Dolphins +4 v. Pats

Giants +2.5 v. Cowboys

49ers -1.5 at Seahawks

Chargers -14 at Browns

Bears -9 v. Rams

Bucs +6 at Panthers

Redskins +10.5 v. Saints

Lions +13.5 at Bengals

Falcons +6 v. Eagles

Titans +6.5 at Colts

Texans -1.5 at Jags

Steelers -14.5 v. Raiders

Broncos -6 at Chiefs

Packers -3 v. Ravens

gl hf

Chicago's First Place Team

Yep, Chicago does have a first place team and they are called the Blackhawks. They are actually tied for the 2nd most points in the NHL. Tonight, the hawks will take on the San Jose Sharks, who are leading the NHL in points. Also, the hawks big free agent signing, Marian Hossa will make his season debut. The hawks will team Hossa with Toews and Kane to form what some people will be a SUPER line and score a million goals. I am excited to see Hossa play and from the sound of it, Kane & Toews are jumping out their skates to be on the ice with him. His biggest impact will hopefully be on the power play where until the hawks scored 4 out of their last 5 on the power play, they were ranked 18th in the league. The hawks are the 2nd best goal differential in the league (goals for avg - goals against avg) and they are going to add a 40 goal scorer. Ill be watching tonight and for any chicago sports fans who are hoping for a championship team, they should be watching tonight and from now on.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/hockey/blackhawks/chi-25-blackhawks-chicago-nov25,0,7954269.story

NFL Bets week 12

NFL spreads keeping on being big and goofy and very hard for me to figure out. Again i tried to stay away from taking big points unless the team was at home. Last week, I went 11-3-1, so here's hoping for a repeat.

Lions +12 v. Packers (this one's for reed who i just found out is a loyal reader, go lions)

Raiders +13.5 at Dallas

Giants -7 at cowboys

Colts -3.5 at texans

Bengals -14 v. browns

Vikings -11 v. bears (it broke my heart to make this bet)

Redskins +9 at eagles

Dolphins +3.5 at bills

Seahawks +3.5 at rams

falcons -12 v. bucs

panthers +3 at jets

jags +3 at niners

chargers -13.5 v. chiefs

Pats +3 at Saints

Happy Turkey day!

The Breakup

Im sorry bears. Its you, not me. I'm breaking up with you this season. I started this relationship with such high hopes as usual thinking perhaps a 12-4 season and here we are at 4-6. This relationship just isnt going in the direction i need it to go. You've let yourself go. You always promise things you cant deliver. You cant rush the rush the passer, you can't run the ball and your quarterback with the big arm cant hit a wide open receiver. And to be blunt you dont put out enough/score enough touchdowns. I have found myself just waiting and hoping for this relationship to develop instead of enjoying it. You have only caused me heartache and missed opportunities.

Yes, this means i wont be spending anymore money on you/game tixs or drunk cutler jersey purchases. No, i wont be yelling at you anymore when you fuck up/screaming at the TV when orlando pace commits a false start or greg olsen drops an easy 1st down catch. I'm done having to mold my life around you/devote 3 hours to watching you play terribly. Dont worry, ill still stalk you on facebook/watch your games and read articles on you. I'll still get drunk and bitch about you to my friends. I just cant be involved in this type of relationship anymore.

Don't worry, I might be get interested again when you lose 20 lbs/be a team who can win games.

State of the Bears

Well i think i have come down off the ledge. I think. It has been a week since the bears lost in san francisco and i still dont know where we go from here as bears fans. Realistically, it will be hard for the bears to make the playoffs. They would have to go atleast 5-2 over their last 7 leading to a 9-7 finish. Looking at their schedule they would have to play like the team that started 3-1 and not this shit team that has showed up the last 5.

I know has not been the superman we expected but i would still make the trade in a heartbeat again. Jay is our future and that doesnt worry me. What worries me is where is the rest of the future? Forte, Hester, Knox, Bennett, and Olsen give the bears some young skill players who they can build around. They probably will need to get a big bodied WR who can help them in the redzone. But is are there good young players anywhere else on this team? The offensive line is devoid of any young talent besides Chris Williams, who has been less than impressive so far.

The defense is built to win now. Its full of veterns with big contracts that the bears really cant get away from and probably in 2-3 years wont be starters anymore if they still are. Along the D line, I think everyone can see that Mark Anderson's rookie year was a fluke and he is gone after this year. With Gaines Adams, Harrison, and the bears 2 draft picks of this year, Melton & Gilbert (who the bears took as projects), there is talent that could be developed, but no where else on the defense is there promising youth. Has Nick Roach convinced you that he is the answer at LB? He hasnt convinced me. Bowman and Alfalva might have some potential to be solid starters in this league but they dont project as stars. The stars on this defense are coming to the age where they are probably past their prime and the bears cupboard is bare of young impact players.

So, if you buy all these arguments, you realize the bears most likely find themselves in a crossroads after this season (yes, ill say that im not expecting anything but at best a 1st playoff round exit this year). With both 1st & 2nd round picks traded away next year (cutler & gaines adams trades) it will be hard/nearly impossible for the bears to find impact players in the draft especially if you take Angelo's drafting record into effect. This leaves the bears with only 2 options as i see it. First, they can throw themselves into free agency and try to sign atleast 2 O-lineman and atleast an impact safety and probably pass rusher. The NFL is not like the NBA where talented young players are available every free agency period. In the NFL, if a team doesnt lock the guy up, there is probably a reason. This would most likely be an attempt at a quick fix/win now approach because i think everyone can see that the window to win with this current team is closing quickly. Or the bears could accept that they need to get younger and look to get themselves out from under some of their bigger contracts say like tommie harris and peanut tillman and get younger. Either option scares the hell out of me and i dont know what i prefer but i think either way we will see significant movement in the roster this offseason. We know Culter & Forte are the future but will they have to struggle through a rebuilding period to get to that future?

Bears v. Eagles

Summary

Please see my ramblings above about the bears. D. Nabb comes home and always plays well against the bears. Bryan Westbrook is out with concussions but LeShawn McCoy hasnt missed a beat as his back up.

Key Factors

The bears are the 7th most penalized team. Its hard to win when you are killing yourself. The bears must cut down on penalties and maybe they can pull this one out. Also, probably the only place the bears have an advantage is on special teams. If they can control the field position with their special teams, they might also have a chance.

Key Matchups

Eagles speedy WRs v. Bears Safeties - I think Lovie will go into this game playing a lot of zone and cover 2 while blitzing the LBs which would leave the bears safeties having to cover the deep part of the field and make sure tackles. That will give the Eagles' WRs a chance to try and break something deep and over the middle. The bears safeties havent been good this year and im scared over this matchup especially with the speedy and yac-specialists desean jackson and jeremy maclin.

Forte's hands v. Eagles blitz. Does anyone think the bears O-line can block the eagles myriad of blitz looks? If cutler can't get enough time to get the ball to his WRs then matt forte's hands will be catching a lot of check down passes. Can he get the YAC the bears need like he did in the san fran game?

Prediction

I cant pick the bears, I just cant. I think it will be a close game but i think McNabb will drive down in the closing seconds and a david aker's FG will win it. Eagles 23, Bears 20.

Critical Performer

If there was ever a time for Devin to become dangerous on punt returns again this would be a the game with the bears' season on the line at home. I think he will break his streak and take one to the house against the eagles pourous coverage teams.

Bears - Eagles Preview: Sentence-Statement Edition

I'm tired of picking against the Bears this year.

They are due for a win.

Cutler is due for a good game.

Andy Reid is obese.

Brain Westbrook is concussed.

Donovan McNabb endorses Campbell's Chunky Soup.

Lovie Smith looks like a turtle at press conferences.

Matt Forte scores two touchdowns Sunday night.

Charles Tilmann causes a fumble.

If the Bears stink again I will watch the finale of Curb Your Enthusiasm.

This season has made no sense so far.

Bears 24 - Eagles 20.

NFL week 11

Last week i took a little bit of a beating going 6-9. This week again there are 7 games with atleast a 10 point spread. I hate beating in the nfl that a team will get beat that badly, especially the nfl this year so most of the time i took the team getting the points. Here's hoping most games are close and I can win a few.

dolphins + 3 at panthers

Lions -3.5 v. browns

bills +9 at Jags

chiefs +11 v. steelers

colts -1.5 at ravens

falcons +7 at giants

49ers +6.5 at packers

Vikings -11 v. seahawks

redskins +11 at cowboys

saints -12 at bucs

rams +10 v. cardinals

Jets +11.5 at pats

bengals -11 at raiders

bears +4 v. eagles (the line changed as i was making my bet so did my bet as a result. originally the bears were only getting 3 pts and i was taking philly)

titans +4 at texans

Cubs make a push

Last week, i posted that i hoped/begged the cubs to make a push to acquire the newly available curtis granderson from the tigers. Well, apparently Jim Hendry reads my blog. Looks like the cubs are 1 of 3 teams who are the front runners for granderson. ill be honest i dont see any reason the cubs dont get him. Unless you have to give up both young studs Vitters and Castro, this deal makes too much sense for the cubs. Heck, maybe in a package deal with fox, hoffpauir, marshall, and a combo of young players, you can pay the tigers to take bradley. alright thats probably too much to dream for. but seriously, granderson seems like exactly the type of player that the cubs were lacking last year. He plays with his heart on his sleeve and is all-out, all-the-time, fiery type of player and would be a great add to a subdued cubs' clubhouse. Hopefully this turns out better than the Peavy trade of last winter.....

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/chi-14-cubs-granderson-nov14,0,2987407.story

Final Bears Thoughts For a While....

In the Bears four wins Jay Cutler has thrown 2 interceptions.

In the Bears five losses Jay Cutler has thrown 15 interceptions.

Its a rumor but i can dream.

The offseason is where cubs and sox fans get to have dreams of their teams being good. The actually season is where those dreams fall apart or never materialize. Word came from the GM meetings here at O'Hare yesterday that the Tigers were shopping Curtis Ganderson. Yes, the former all-star, guaranteed 20 bombs and 20 bags a year, 29 yr old CF Curtis Ganderson. The tigers have got money problems as does everyone in detroit so they are looking to restock with young players. I hope Hendry was on the phone all day trying to make a deal happen. A young left handed power hitting centerfielder who can bat first or second available not named corey patterson. Go out and redeem yourself Jim and see if you can get edwin jackson too.

http://espn.go.com/chicago/columns/blog/_/post/4646320/name/levine

Bears Niners Preview

Summary

Short week = short preview. This game is must win for both teams if they even want to sniff the playoffs. Early in the season, both of these teams like like serious NFC contenders. Now, they are mediocre teams trying to keep their season alive.

Key Factors

The bears defense has been horrible and this team is not built to win solely on its offense. The team has to rediscover its defensive identity or it will only get uglier from here.

The 49ers have a very good defense and held Peyton & Co. to 18 pts last week. Alex Smith seems to have some life and is trying to get his name to stop being mentioned in the same breath as Tim Couch.

Key Matchups

Kruetz v. Patrick Willis - Arguably, Willis is the best inside LB in the game. Can Kruetz and his buddies, Garza & Beekman actually get to the 2nd level and block Willis. If not, Willis will be playing in Matt Forte's backfield and there the running game will grind to a halt. If that happens, the bears once again will have no time of possession and have to rely on Cutler's arm and we know how that storyline plays out.

Frank Gore v. the entire bears front 7. - Can tommie harris make it to play 5 this week? does it matter? can the bears actually play in their assigned gaps and in some way resemble a good defense? If they can stop gore, then i will take my chances with alex smith trying to make plays.

Prediction

The bears have to come out with emotion and with purpose otherwise their season could be over after this game. Bears 24-Niners 15

Critical Performer

Johnny Knox. The bears need a big play to get this team going. Whether it be a big return or a long pass play, Knox is the player who can break a play at anytime. Look for a deep shot to him in the 1st quarter and hope him and jay connect.

Bears - 49ers Preview: Thursday Night Special

How fun did this game look when the NFL schedule was first released? A Thursday night game in San Fransisco against Mike Singletary's team in front of the whole country (whole country that's at a bar or has NFL Network) sounded pretty good. My my how things can change in eight weeks. A couple of blowout losses and sloppy play later and this once marquee, prime-time match-up is now almost competing against the new episode of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia for my interest.

Let it be known the Bears season is not quite over yet, although the way they look right now a 6-10 record is much easier to fathom than 10-6. They will probably need to win three in a row (SF, Philadelphia, Minnesota --- yikes!) and get their record up to 7-4 in order to have a good shot at making the playoffs. That streak has to start with beating former number one pick and fresh off the bench, Alex Smith.

Let it be known my "good quarterbacks beat the Bears" theory will be put to test this game. Alex Smith is not a good quarterback like Matt Ryan, Carson Palmer, Aaron Rodgers and Kurt Warner are. He's not exactly bad and also a bit of a wild-card. So does that mean the Bears will beat him? Who knows? The Bears have done nothing to show me they can beat a passionately coached and competitive team (albeit not a very good team --- 3-5 record, losers of four straight) on the road.

Since I couldn't figure out how to tie-in a story about my Dad choking on a Portillo's Polish (don't worry it's only week 10) and because the general themes of the Bears have become repetitive--- defense gets no pressure on the QB, defense gets beat in the passing game, offense relies on Cutler's arm too much, offense has no running identity --- I end this preview and hope once again that I am wrong:

San Francisco 23 Chicago 20

I hate Derek Jeter even more now!

I need to rant about this a little bit. The AL gold glovers were announced this afternoon. What were people smoking when they voted for these awards? There are players who play this wonderful game of baseball everyday strictly because of their glove. You will find none of these players on this list. Its a crime and it degrades this award.

On this year's list, you will find good hitters and decent fielders. But you wont find the guys who survive for their glove. I read much about Jeter being a liability in the field from scouts and general managers and anyone who has watched him knows he is not a good defensive shortstop. How bout giving it to the kid, Elvis Andrus, down in texas who they moved a former gold glove SS, Michael Young to 3B, to get this kid's glove in the lineup. Or what about the guys' who were routinely in espn's webgems. Like Brandon Inge at 3b, Jack Wilson at SS, Gomez in CF, Carl Crawford in OF and Franklin Gutierrez in OF. These are guys that play ridiculously good defense and pretty much are in the MLB for that reason. These players deserve the gold gloves because they probably dont have much of a chance to win any other hardware in MLB.

This year's gold glovers reads oddly like the silver slugger awards. What a crock of shit! This is a slap to face of baseball, fans, and the players who really deserve to be on this list.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4642325

They are who we thought they were???

Right? Stupid players. A defense that is a step or two too slow. And a passing offense that can mount some semblance of a comeback.

I dont really know what to say about this team and the game they played yesterday.

I'm encouraged by their offense. We finally saw the cutler-olsen connection that everyone hoped for. The line actually did a pretty good job passing blocking considering that the cardinals knew the bears were gonna be throwing every play after they were down by 24. and when they did the run the ball, all 8 carries, the line opened up some holes. the problem was that we really didnt get to see the full offense because they were never in the game.

The defense is a cluster fuck. Where to start? Tommie Harris, you should pay to refund everyone's ticket that was at soldier field yesterday. That would be the most meaningful contribution you have made this season. I have no idea what he was thinking and i wouldnt be surprised if he is suspended for a good length of time by the league. The sad thing was that he was actually playing a little like the old tommie harris the first 4 plays. When harris doesnt play/plays 4 plays, the D has been torched for 86 pts this year. Can tommie harris be the key to the bears defense?

the secondary is medicore at best and with no pressure on warner, they got killed. is it this hard to find a safety?

Does anyone miss urlacher more than briggs? I know for years we have been hearing that briggs is made as good as urlacher if not better but he looks lost out there. Now that urlacher is out, teams are game planning to block briggs and he doesnt seem to know how to get around it. he is still making tackles but they are 5 yds down the field and not impact plays.

The bears are a 4-4 team and their offense looks better than their defense. this is not the bears team i expected in 2009 and if the defense cant with the players we have there is no quick fix because of all the big contracts with defenders. Will the bears have to change their M.O. and game plans to try and win with offense? Is it even possible?

It's a Good Thing the Bears Have Jay Cutler or Else This Season Would Be Spiraling Out of Control

Stop what you're doing for a minute, close your eyes, and ponder this question: Where would the Bears be without Jay Cutler this year? Pretty scary thought, ain't it?

For the first time in decades, the Bears finally have a strong-armed quarterback and things couldn't be better. Move over Erik Kramer, Cutler is on pace to shatter all your Bears passing records this year. With a stat line like this through 8 games--2000 yards, 14 TDs and completing 63% of his passes-- all is well in Chicago, finally.

How many wins would the Bears have without Cutler this year? 3, maybe 4 tops? They'd probably be an inconsistent .500 team struggling through each week.

With Cutler, they are poised to make that playoff run that everyone thought was possible in the off-season. With Cutler, the bad offensive line, horrible coaching, lack of run game and inept defense is an afterthought. With Cutler, the Bears can finally throw the ball deep and rack up any amount of points their defense might give up. With Cutler, nothing else matters.


Anyone else starting to think that the Bears addition of Cutler is kind of like a guy buying an $80,000 luxury car even though he can't afford the payments, lives in a shitty apartment, has a shitty job, has to park it outside on the street where hoodlums can vandalize it and doesn't even know how to drive it since it's a stick-shift? But fuck it, look how awesome it looks shining in the sun after you've washed and waxed it!

Bulls so far. He said what?

"Chicago's size and the athleticism of its guards gave Cleveland problems."

Yes this is actually written about our bulls teams. I have to say after 5 games I am extremely impressed with this team. They are winning games with their defense. I havent said that since 2006 and i have higher hopes for this team. I was at the game against the Bobcats and was extremely impressed with the bulls team defense. The bulls were talking with each other, calling out screens and hustling to cover the open man. Sometimes it took 4-5 pass by the bobcats in order to find an open guy off penetration and even then there was a bull running at the guy. With the bulls increased size, they are able to switch on the pick and roll and not get killed on those matchups. Taj Gibson even d'ed up Bron!

Noah is more impressive every game and Deng is getting back to his old form. Thomas' injury sucks but hopefully he will be back soon. Rose will come around and get back in the rhythm. Their shooting will improve and i think this team can all of a sudden challenge for the 4th best team in the east.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/dailydime?page=dime-091105

Bears - Cardinals Preview: The Crusade of Kurt Warner

As I wrote earlier in the week, it seems the Bears have trouble defeating good quarterbacks. Because of this, this week's game boils down to the incomparable Kurt Warner. Along his religious journey on planet Earth, Kurt Warner has very noticeably built a Hall of Fame resume. We all know his story:

Cut by the Green Bay Packers in training camp---- Joins AFL's Iowa Barnstormers ---- Stocks groceries at the local Hy-Vee ---- Marries ex-Marine Corp and strong-arm Brenda ---- Cancels tryout with Chicago Bears because of scorpion bite sustained during his honeymoon (how much should we trust wikipedia?) ---- Trent Green's ACL snaps like a twig ---- Dick Vermeil cries ---- Throws for over 4,000 yards and 41 TDs ---- Wins Super Bowl along with regular and post-season MVP ---- Becomes 4 time Pro Bowler ---- Wins another MVP ---- Makes two more trips to the Super Bowl ---- Currently has career QB rating of 93

An obvious feel good story and an obviously talented quarterback. So, how will the Bears stop this guy on Sunday? Well, for starters, this isn't the same "gee shucks look what I did Lord" guy that could throw a football as accurate as anybody in history. This year his age has caught up with him (38 with a touch of grey in his hair) as he has thrown as many interceptions as touchdowns and is coming off a clunker against Carolina. His team is perhaps in a post-Super Bowl loss hangover and is limping to a 4-3 record. That said, given time in the pocket, this guy still can rip apart weak secondaries like Dan Jiggets and a T-Bone steak.

How the Bears can win: Aggressive defense
Sure getting five turnovers against the Browns is a nice accomplishment, but outside of that game the Bears have yet to show their trademark fast aggressive defense that made them a feared team in the past. This game is certaintly winnable for the Bears, but as always it starts up front with the D-Line. Adewale Ogunleye, Alex Brown and Mark Anderson and co. need to establish a good pass rush early and fluster Warner. If Warner is comfortable he will pull a Carson Palmer on the Bears. A good rush takes the pressure of the DB's as well, who will have their hands full all day with the star receivers for Arizona.

How the Cardinals can win: Thru the air
Despite having two decent young runners in Tim Hightower and rookie Beanie Wells, the Cardinals rank dead last in the NFL in rushing. What they do have, however, are top of the line wide receivers. Larry Fitzgerald is on the short list for best in the NFL, Anquan Boldin is a former Pro-Bowler and Steve Breaston is an up and coming star. All three of these guys caught over 1,000 yards a piece last year. (Think about what Calvin Johnson, Chad Ochocinco and Roddy White did to the Bears this year already.)

Critical Performer: Kurt Warner

Prediction: Cardinals 27 - Bears 24
Sorry TheChicagoSportsCritcs fans, but over the past month the Bears have shown me that they can lose close (Falcons), lose big (Bengals), sit out a week (Bye) and win sloppy (Browns). Add in the fact that the Cardinals are 3-0 on the road and this match-up doesn't look so great for Chicago. Here's hoping I'm wrong.

Bears Week 9 Preview

Bears v. Cards

Summary

This game comes at a critical time for both teams. Both the bears and cards have been maddeningly inconsistent. This game starts a tough 4 game stretch where the bears will show us what type of team they are. Arizona leads their division but that lead is shaky at best. A win for both teams would show that they can beat a high quality opponent and really give a boost to their season.

Key Factors

No shocker here. It will be the bears pass defense v. cards passing offense. Everyone knows that the cards will come out throwing the ball and their offense rests on the right arm of Kurt Warner. The bears have to get a pass rush because if warner gets protection, he will pick apart any coverage the bears use. In an excellent article from espn chicago, it seems that Zach Bowman has been the more effective cornerback this year. Or atleast teams have been less effective throwing to his side. Although that is what the numbers say, i still see the cards throwing a bunch to bowman's side.

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/news/story?id=4623045

Bears special teams. I mean who doesnt remember the last time the bears played the cards and the incredible comeback. As Lovie preaches winning games with defense and special teams, this phase may be the game changer for the bears. Both offenses and defenses seem pretty evenly matched up but if the bears' special teams can give the bears a field position advantage, it could be the difference between a win and a loss.

Key Matchups

Marcus Harrison v. Tim Hightower/Beanie Wells. Harrision as the starting nosetackle has to plug up the run. The cards strength is not running the ball but if they do get that going the bears are in serious trouble. Harrision and the other DT have to stuff the run to make Arizona a one dimensional team. So that the ends and LBs can concentrate on the pass and hope to stop what can be an explosive passing game.

Cutler v. Rodgers-Cromartie. The Arizona CB is a gambler. He will jump routes to try and get the pick-6. He will be overly aggressive with WR and can be duped by the WR. If Cutler and his wrs are able to pull a double move with a pump fake from cutler, you could see Cromartie pounding the ground and cutler celebrating after getting the big plays we have been waiting for all season.

Prediction

This is gonna be a close game the whole day with two evenly matched teams. I can either seeing the bears winning 24-23 or the cards winning 31-24. As the bears are at home, ill take them.

Bears 24-23

Critical Performer

Devin. Hester. I think he will show up big against the cardinals again. He has really progressed as a WR and there will be some opportunities for him in this game to make big plays and get into that endzone. Maybe most importantly, he must and will have some very good punt returns and give the bears the edge in field position. Chicago, welcome the return of the explosive 23!

NFL bets this week

This week is strange. I usually hate playing any line over a TD because of how wacky the NFL is but somehow i find myself playing a bunch this week. I'm hot so lets see how it goes....

Chiefs +6.5 at Jags

Bengals +3 v. Ravens

Colts -9 v. Texans

Falcons -9.5 v. Redskins

Packers -9.5 v. Bucs

Bears -3 v. Cards

Dolphins +10.5 at Pats

Saints -13 v. Panthers

Lions +10 at Seahawks

49ers -4.5 v. Titans

Giants -5 v. Chargers

Eagles -3 v. Cowboys

Steelers -3 at Broncos

Last week 8-4

Act wearing thin....

I would like to start this post off by saying i like Tyrus Thomas and hope he can fulfill his enormous potential. However, this kid needs a mentor/buddy/father/grown man to slap him around in his life.

Tyrus was sent home this morning from Bulls practice because of flu-like symptoms. These symptoms come right after took exception to Vinny's criticism of him and Lindsey Hunter calling him out in a team meeting. This is becoming a pattern in my book. Its no wonder that the bulls didnt sign ty to an extension. He says that he is putting in enough work for him to start but ty, you dont make that decision. its the coaches that make the decision if you are putting in enough work or playing well enough to start. If the coaches tell you are late on your defensive rotations, then you have to show that you can do them first. He is suppose to bring defense to this team but its seems as though that is lacking. Of course, then he wont be playing at the end of the game.

I know this kid is only 23 but its his 4th year in the league and frankly i would like him to start acting like it. Besides rose, he probably has the most potential on the team but he acts like because he is working hard, he is entitled to starters minutes and confidence from the fans/media/coaches. Last year, he averaged 10 pts 6 rbs. Do something first then start talking. And this guy said he could average 20pts 10rbs. yeah right....

http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2009/11/bulls-send-thomas-home-with-flu-like-symptoms.html

Bear bashing???

Look, as i said in my review, i dont think the bears played a clean or great game yesterday. But, i dont really understand the bashing that they are talking from the media, fans and my co-contributor here today. By no means do i think the Browns are a good team. But with that being said, their players still get paid to play in the NFL. Their offense scored 20 against the Vikes, 20 against the Bengals, and 14 against the Steelers. The Bears only let them score 6. The defense played good. Yes, they only got one sack but got enough pressure to force 5 turnovers and a 10 rating for Derek Anderson who has been to a pro-bowl.

The offense had trouble putting the ball in the endzone. But, the steelers had trouble putting the ball in the endzone against the bears and remind me now if people are talking about how bad their offense or ben roethlisberger is?

The bears scored 30 pts! 30 pts! Has everyone so quickly forgotten the bears of the past couple of years where they could have scored 30 pts in 2 games combined? The Bears are suppose to win games with their defense, getting turnovers, great special teams, and not turning the ball over on offense. I know Cutler coming in has boosted expectations for this offense but have we gone to far over board? The bears right now are averaging 22.7 pts per game. If you had told most fans that number at the beginning of the season, we all would have taken it hands down.

There are absolutely things that the Bears need to do better, the players and coaches admitted it. But they beat a team by 24. The vikings won but gave up 26 pts to the packers and are the 20th ranked defense in the league but no one today is bashing them for that. The bears did what they were suppose to do and that was beat a lesser team handily. Let's wait to predict the demise of this team until after they lose a game.

P.S - Friday Night Lights is still the best show on TV

Got a good quarterback? You'll probably beat the Bears

Lets take a look at the quarterbacks the Bears have beaten this year:
-Ben Roethlisberger
-Seneca Wallace
-Matthew Stafford
-Derek Anderson

Beating Pittsburgh and Big Ben has been the win of the year and is the exception in the season so far. The other three quarterbacks they've beaten probably shouldn't be starting in the NFL.

Here are the quarterbacks that have beaten the Bears this year:
-Aaron Rodgers
-Matt Ryan
-Carson Palmer

All three of these guys are established and talented quarterbacks.

Now for the bad news. Here are the quarterbacks the Bears still have to face:
-Brett Favre
-Brett Favre
-Kurt Warner
-Donovan McNabb
-Joe Flacco
-Aaron Rodgers

-Matthew Stafford
-Alex Smith
-Marc Bulger

I know that a teams quarterback is only one part, but I really believe good quarterbacking will beat the Bears 3 out of 4 times like what has happened already. Their secondary is shaky and they have not rushed the passer well at all. Judging by this I've got them winning the bottom 3 and winning 1 or 2 games (Packers, Cardinals and Ravens likely suspects) in the group of five establsihed quarterbacks. Of course this is speculation and they could lose to the 49ers pretty easily and could also score an upset win somewhere in the schedule. This is just one way of observing the year so far.

Will 9-7 make the playoffs this year?

Bears Postgame

Well the bears come away with a win. No, they didnt look great but its a step in the right direction. We saw an improved running game and a more explosive Matt Forte in this game. The defense looked great and had 5 takeaways. There seemed to be much less confusion as to the signals and calls on the defense with Hillenmeyer in the middle and the takeaways seem a direct result of it. The offense was by no means great but the line was better and the wrs continue to impress with their route running and ability to adjust to the ball while its in the air. Mostly impressive was Cutler. No, he didnt throw a TD and no, he didnt have a great game but he took a beating. He was hit a lot and he popped back up and got into with the defense. Cutler is a tough guy and i think he will have endeared himself to bears fans after a performance like sunday's. Next week, the cards and all their wrs. Should be an interesting matchup. Also, i was almost right on with my 31-6 prediction.

NFL bets for this week

So for the last couple of weeks i have been betting on the NFL games. I have been betting on all the games and just the straight spread. So far for the season, i am about 70%. Here are mine this week:

Broncos +3 at ravens

bears -13 v. browns

texans -3.5 at bills

vikes +3 at packers

49ers +13 at colts

dolphins +3 at jets

seahawks +10 at cowboys

radiers +17 at chargers

jags +3 at titans

panthers +11 at cardinals

giants -1 at eagles

falcons +10.5 at saints

heres hoping for a big week.

Bears Week 8 Preview

Bears v. Browns

Summary

What bears team will show up? They have looked good in 3 games this year and terrible in the other 3 games this year, especially in the disaster that was last week. Last week has prompted changes on the O-line and at MLB. The Browns are 1-6 and a terrible football team. They have little to no offense and im not sure their defense is any better. The line on this game has the Bears giving 14 pts so most everyone this this will be a blowout.

Key Factors

Matt Forte. Hello, Matt welcome to your 2nd NFL season, now would you like to participate in helping your team win a game? Forte has been a huge disappointment this season and no matter whether he is banged up or his O-line sucks, he has to get more involved for the bears to be a good team. This week would be a good week to get something rolling as the bears will face much tougher run D's than the browns in the upcoming weeks.

The Bears run D. The browns won a game this year in which their QB completed only 2 passes, a modern record. I and im sure the bears would love it if the Browns had to throw 45 times in this game but to do that the bears must shut down Jamal Lewis, James Harrison, and a decent young run blocking o-line. Hold the browns under 100 yds rushing and it will spell victory. *Money to anyone who can name the Browns 2 starting WRs.

Key Matchups

Alex Mack v. Marcus Harrison/Tommie Harris. The browns have a decent young developing line but it is anchored by Mack who is a rookie center. The Bears DTs should eat him up and be able to confuse him pre-snap and clog up the middle. Both Harrision and Harris have underperformed this year. They need to have impressive games on sunday against a young inexperienced center.

Greg Olson v. Browns LBs. The Browns play a 3-4 so Olson will probably be helping a lot on blocking the rushing OLBs. I can envision him chipping a lot to help the OTs and sometimes being locked up on a OLB and having to block them on his own, not Olsen's strong suit. Olsen also needs to figure out how to contribute more on offense. I know teams have been game planning to stop him but good/great players get open despite being the focus of the opposing D.

Prediction

Look, I think the bears are angry and embarrassed after last week's pasting. I think they will win this one huge and this time going into the locker room, the bears will be the team with the sizable lead.

Bears 31 - Browns 6

Critical Performer

Zack Bowman. I know he has had a pretty down season so far but he is young and i think, as the bears do, this kid can be a really good CB. I think the D-line will come out with a vengeance and harass Anderson all day long and Bowman can make a few plays and come up with a pick at least this week.

Bears - Browns Preview: Panda Express Edition

The Bears face the Cleveland Browns at home Sunday, a week after being embarrassed by Carson Palmer, Cedric Benson, Chad Ochocinco, Dusty Baker, Skyline Chili and everything else Cincinnati. It was a terrible effort from the coaches, offense, defense and special teams. Despite the blowout, and two losses in a row, the Bears should defeat the Browns rather easily given their putrid offense, dip-shit head coach Eric Mangini and 1-6 record.

(Note: This week's preview was inspired by and is dedicated to Lili, the enchanting woman that served me at Panda Express on Thursday.)

Orange Chicken: Jay Cutler
Easily the best dish at Panda, the Orange Chicken is tender, tangy and everyones favorite. Cutler (the best and everyones favorite already, don't try to deny it) is coming off a two interception game in which he looked pedestrian. Give him a slight break for the poor performance as the team was blown out from the get-go. John Elway wouldn't have brought the Bears back from the Bengals debacle. He should have his way with the Browns defense and have an great game throwing the ball to Hester, Knox, Bennett and Olsen.

Beef and Broccoli: Lance Briggs
The most consistent dish at Panda time in and time out. You get a little meat, some good vegetables and a lot of fun. Sound like Lance Briggs to anyone? This guy has been "the man" on the Bears defense, consistent all year long, and has taken over Urlacher's leadership role. Look for him to take control again and limit Jamal Lewis, Derek Anderson and the rest of the Browns offense.

Egg Roll: Johnny Knox
The wild-card on the Panda menu. Nearly everyone passes up the egg roll, but some guy ordered four yesterday while I was in line. When it rains, it pours. Johnny Knox had scored a touchdown in four straight games before the Bengals game. Like any good wild card, this guy can go off at any moment. I think he gets back in the action and spikes the ball this week in celebration.

Sweet Fire Chicken: Hunter Hillenmeyer and Josh Beekman
Brand new on the menu, an interesting combination of sweet pineapple along with some heat. Hillenmeyer's new position of middle linebacker this week rotates Roach over to the strong side. Hunter is a smart and disciplined football player that makes up for his lack of athleticism. Beekman, now the new left guard, will be a welcome addition to the struggling offensive line. Beekman is a solid pro that should look like Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz compared to the confused and demoted Frank Omiyale.

Chicken and Mushroom: Lovie Smith
Is there a more divisive food than mushrooms? Some love 'em, some hate 'em, others are so-so with 'em. Lovie generated a ton of buzz after the crippling loss to Cincinnati. Some want him fired now, some want him fired at the end of the year and some defend and respect the overall consistent winning he has brought to the Bears during his tenure. Lovie is feeling the heat and maybe needs an easy win more than any other Bear.


Prediction: Bears 24 - Browns 10

Take a seat, Frank

At long last Lovie has seen the light. Come sunday, Josh Beekman will be your starting left guard. Why did it take so long for this to happen? I have no idea because i think any human being watching the bears games could have seen that Omiyale was about as worthwhile as a cardboard cutout on the field. But at long last, Ole Omilyale will have a great view from the bench on sunday.

Also, the bears announced that Hunter Hillenmeyer will be back in the middle of the defense on sunday. The Bears citing poor positioning and problems calling the defense, Nick Roach will be moved back to strong side LB. I think Roach has a chance to be a decent LB but when twice in one game you get killed by a bubble screen b/c the defense only has 2 defenders to that side to cover 3 wrs, something has to give. Gladly once again there will be an odd looking white guy patrolling the middle of the field for the bears on sunday.

These two position chances point to a scary trend I have seen with Lovie as a head coach. There is no question that Ole Omiyale and Roach are the better athletes at their positions but Hillenmeyer and Beekman have been solid, if not spectacular, starters in the past. It scares me that the Bears are choosing who is starting based athletic ability instead of productivity. Teams need to know that they can count on their teammates to do their jobs. I think finally Lovie is getting that message.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-29-bears-tommie-harris-oct29,0,3761196.story

Side Note: Tommie (i am collecting 10 mill for 0 sacks and 1 knee) Harris is back practicing and Vasher has been getting some time at safety (ill just close my eyes and pray they dont throw at him).

Bulls Season

Nice article Pete. I agree with it being a big year for Ty Thomas. He'll be inspired to play his best so he can get paid. I also concur with your overall prediction. I'm going to go with a record of 42-40 record and a 7th seed in the East. Here's what I don't agree with:

"Thank God" Ben Gordon is gone? Beg your pardon? You started off by praising the Bulls for a hard fought and exciting playoff series against the Celtics and then say that you are happy Ben Gordon is gone. Hate to break it to you but Ben Gordon was the reason the Celtics series was exciting. The Celtics series would have gone 5 games without Gordon. He averaged 24 pts a game that series and hit some incredible big shots. Not sure how Ben Gordon got to become a scape goat for the Bulls, but it's not really fair. You don't need everyone on your team to be a defense wizard, look at how Toni Kukoc worked for the Bulls with his shitty defense. I mean, we can trade back for Thabo Sefolosha if you want, he plays good defense. Gordon was their best player the past few years in my opinion and they will definitely miss him. Come crunch time we'll see who has the guts to take the shot.

Bulls Season Preview

Bulls Season Preview

This season has the optimistic feel of 2007 for the Bulls. Now that this team has been together for a whole offseason and after their epic playoff battle with the Celtics, people are looking at the Bulls to once again make the playoffs and finish anywhere from 4-6 in the playoff hunt. I have high hopes for these bulls as well but am not quite sure they will be a top team in the East. There are a couple of questions that loom large for the bulls and that must be answered this year.

Can Tyrus take the next step?

TT has all the athletic talent in the world but it really has yet to translate onto the court. He is maddeningly inconsistent and has been throughout his entire career. One minute he will make a block that you didnt realize was possible and then the next moment he will try and dribble through his legs and lose the ball out of bounds. With that said, TT might be the biggest key to Bulls success this season. He will start at the 4 and has to bring energy, rebounding, blocks, highlight dunks, and the occasional 15 ft jumper. With his ability, he should dominate the boards and be able to intimidate everyone at and above the rim. If tyrus can average 15 pts, 9 boards, 1.5 blocks per game, it will be a successful season and the bulls can think about locking him up long term.

With that said however, i dont think it will be the case. I think its very likely that by midseason, you will see taj gibson starting at the 4 and tyrus coming off the bench. This might be a better role for tyrus because he can bring that spark that the 2nd unit needs and he can be a little more reckless with his fouls. Throughout the preseason, gibson has shown everything that tyrus doesnt do. Gibson is fundamentally sound, rotates well on D, talks well on D, and surprisingly can hit the 15 ft with consistency. I dont think Gibson is the answer at the 4 nor do i necessarily think he is a better player than tyrus but i think he can be more consistent and a better fit starting along side noah.

The bulls have chosen not to extend tyrus' contract and he will be a restrict FA at the end of the year. I think the bulls have taken this approach because tyrus has yet to really produce and they have liked what they have seen from taj gibson. In the end, i think this will be tyrus' last year with the bulls or he will be dealt at the trade deadline. I just dont see him becoming a consistent player yet and the bulls will not want to pay for the potential. I really hope i am wrong because i believe tyrus could be a game changer for the bulls and make them a team to reckoned with.

Where does Rose go next?

The answer is anywhere he wants. Rose has shown Bulls and nba fans that he can pretty much do anything on the court he wants. Last year, the knock on him was that he couldnt hit the jumper. But, he proved everyone wrong. While I dont think Rose will ever have a pretty jump shot, he is able to hit the open jumper and occasional 3 pointer to keep the defense honest. I dont think anyone knows what Rose's ceiling is. This year i think the biggest improvement that we will see will be in on-the-court leadership and presence. By the end of the season, he will be talked about just behind CP3 & Deron Williams as the best PG in the game. I see 20.5 pts, 3 rbs, 8.5 asts, & 1.2 stls a game average.

Scoring? Shooters? A Jump hook?

As everyone knows, Ben Gordon is gone to the hell hole that is Detriot basketball and may i just say thank god. I was never a Ben fan (although i enjoyed his big game winning shots) and am glad the bulls will no longer have the blackhole that he was on offense and might finally be able to have 5 players on defense now that he is gone. But everyone wants to know where his scoring will be made up from. Look i dont think putting the ball in the hoop will be a problem for the bulls. Loul's back, Rose, Salmons, Kirk, Noah and Pargo all should between them make up ben's 20 pts/game.

What i am worried about is how the bulls put the ball in the hole. While Salmons, Hinrich, and Pargo all can shoot from distance, im not sure i would call any of them a good 3 pt shooter. I mean in the playoffs, the bulls best 3 pt shooter was Brad Miller. With their starting 5, salmons is really the only legit 3 pt threat. Defenses might be able to pack the lane more and limit Rose's driving lanes as a result. 3 pt shooting will definitely be a concern and i wouldnt mind seeing the bulls pick up a 3 pt specialist at the trade deadline.

The bulls still dont have any post scoring. Noah, Thomas and others will get you pts in the paint but you really cant run a play for them in the post. In the preseason, they isolated Deng & Noah and they attempted to back down their guys but who are we kidding, those 2 in the post scare anyone. Aaron Gray is about the only guy w/post moves on the bulls and he wont be seeing any court time. I think for the bulls to take the next step they need someone, whether it be a big guy or guard who can post up their guy.

Overall, i think the Bulls will be a frustrating good team. They will be better will be better than last year. They have to be better on defense with gordon gone and a bigger, deeper team but they dont have that shut down defender either who can stop the opposing team's best player. Overall, the Bulls have depth and no injury should hurt them that much. I would say you shouldn't expect much out of top pick Johnson but as i said above i can imagine gibson having a significant role on this team. The Bulls had no problem scoring last year but only with improved defense will they become a real threat in the east. There will still be significant growing pains with this team and that will lead me to end up screaming at the TV and them losing some games they shouldn't. They dont have the firepower to play with the big 3 in the east (Cavs, Celtics, Magic) but they are definitely in that 2nd tier of teams and who knows last year the magic through the improvement of Nelson, Courtney Lee, Turkoglu, and Dwight Howard made that jump from 2nd tier to top tier. But, i think sadly for us bulls fans we will be doomed to another 1st rd playoff exit and then see what the great summer of '10 holds for the bulls.

Bulls 43-39

Finish 6th in the east

1st round playoff loss

Cubs All-Decade Team

I was going to do my own all-decade team but elliott's is so well done, i feel no reason to repeat most of what he has said. However, i would differ on a few selections.

Second Base

I would have to put EY above Derosa. Now both players have very different games. DeRosa had a great season in 2008 but the intangibles that EY brought to the game make him my nod. The guy hit almost .300, scored 98 runs and had an OBP of .367. Plus i feel as though his range in the field gives him an upper hand on DeRosa.

Shortstop

It hurts to say this because Theriot is my favorite current cubs player and because one of the worst moments of my life was when this guy booted the ball, i would go with Alex Gonzalez at shortstop. While Alex Gonzalez may not have had the average at the plate, he more than made up for it in the field. His arm, his range, and sure handedness (yes, this is extremely ironic) plus decent production at the dish in 2003 make him the selection. Perhaps the most ironic event of the decade is him booting the ball in 2003 after being the best statistically defensive shortstop in all of baseball that year.

*I feel as though Nomar should at least get a shout out here. In 2004 and 43 games with the cubs, Nomar hit .297, scored 28 runs, had 49 hits, more BBs than Ks, a OBP of .364 and 20 rbis. Pretty impressive. A shame he couldnt do it for a full season.

I dont really differ anywhere else with Elliott's picks besides maybe 2005 Dempster as closer. But i would like to everyone to take a close look at Sosa's 2001 stats. They are staggering. Literally i was in shock when i read them again. Those are numbers that im not sure will ever be replicated in a Cubs jersey and one of the best offensive seasons ever.

The 2000-2009 Chicago Cubs: A Decade of Summer Memories

I've heard people say that they remember specific moments in their lives through music. Upon hearing a certain song, one can be transplanted back to where they were at the time of the song's release and open up old memories. I won't dispute this and in fact I especially support it when it comes to summer memories. The scant and bizarre chance of hearing Primitive Radio God's "Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand" reminds me of hot concrete at Northside Pool. During the summer of 1996, when this semi-obnoxious, melodramatic song was a favorite on the pool intercom, I specifically remember running, rather than walking, to the concession stand (to buy a plate of nachos or ice cream bar) so the bottoms of my feet wouldn't melt into the hot ground. Likewise, any Boards of Canada song works in a similar fashion by sending me back to the summer of 2006. I know I spent my time in Bloomington that summer doing something besides driving home from landscaping work listening to The Campfire Headphase, but according to the Boards of Canada that's all I did.

For me, a different medium brings back even stronger memories than music; the Chicago Cubs. Being a Cubs fan (a real one, not the kind you find hanging out at John Barleycorn at 2 a.m. wearing khaki shorts and a polo shirt) the past ten years has certainly had it's ups and mainly downs. But regardless of the emotion, the memories will always be alive. For instance, twenty years from now I might have no clue what year I was a part-time bagger at Kroger if it wasn't for the Cubs. The only thing I really remember about that job, or care to remember I suppose, is that I quit sometime in October of 2003 so that I could watch the NLCS between the Cubs and Marlins. Similarly, just hearing the name Jon Lieber oddly evokes memories of my dentist's parking lot. A routine check-up in 2001 came at in opportune time as I had to leave the "Pat and Ron Show" in my car for the dentist in the middle of a Jon Lieber no-hitter. (Lieber would later give up a hit and finish with a one-hit shutout and Dr. Brennan told me I had my first cavity.) As I grow older, and my memories become fewer, I can only imagine what will bring me back to the 2008 playoffs. For now, I'm fine with the image of myself losing my shit over James Loney's grand slam in Game 1 of the 2008 NLCS.

While there were some somber moments, like the Loney slam, the 00's decade (2000-2009) is without much debate the most successful decade in Cubs history since the 1940's. The 1990's featured two winning seasons, for example, but the 00's featured six. (Remember this the Cubs' history, so winning seasons are an achievement.) The Cubs made the playoffs three times in the decade, which is the same number of playoff births from 1945- 1999. A record eight players made the All-Star team in 2008 alone. Needless to say, it was a decade that produced fantastic players and vivid memories. The following All-Decade team I created consists of a different player from a specific season at each position. This list does not take in consideration career achievements, rather the greatest single season of the decade at each respective position. Hopefully this list of Cubs from 2000-2009 brings back to life a few recent Cub memories for you as it did for me. It seems part of remembering what you love is remembering how you got here.


Catcher: Geovany Soto, 2008 (.285 avg 23 hr 86 rbi)

• An easy, no-brainer selection. Geo not only won Rookie of the Year during this impressive year but was also an All-Star starter.
  
• Honorable mention: Joe Girardi, 2000 (.278 avg 6 hr 40 rbi and his only All-Star selection) and Michael Barrett, 2006 (.307 avg 16 hr 53 rbi).

First Base: Derrek Lee, 2005 (.335 avg 46 hr 107 rbi 120 runs)

• A stunning and near triple crown season from the Cubs masher Derrek Lee. Lee not only led the league in batting average, hits and doubles but also won a Gold Glove.
• Honorable mention: Fred McGriff, 2002 (.273 avg 30 hr 103 rbi) and Mark Grace, 2000 (.280 avg 11 hr 82 rbi).

Second Base: Mark DeRosa, 2008 (.285 avg 21 hr 87 rbi 103 runs)

• A very strong year out of the fan favorite DeRosa. Although he only played 95 games at second base in 2008, his power numbers are reason enough to give him the All-Decade selection. This was a very close race as Eric Young and Mark Bellhorn both quietly put up strong seasons in the decade.
• Honorable mention: Eric Young, 2000 (.297 avg 47 rbi 98 runs 54 sb) and Mark Bellhorn, 2002 (.258 avg 27 hr 56 rbi 86 runs).

Shortstop: Ryan Theriot, 2008 (.307 avg 38 rbi 85 runs 22 sb)

• Since this crop arguably had the weakest offensive seasons to chose from, The Riot gets the nod based off his great average and steals. Yet another selection from the 97 win team in 2008.
• Honorable mention: Ricky Gutierrez, 2001 (.290 avg 10 hr 66 rbi 76 runs) and Alex Gonzalez, 2003 (20 hr 59 rbi 71 runs).

Third Base: Aramis Ramirez, 2006 (.291 avg 38 hr 119 rbi 93 runs)

• 2006 was a fabulous season from one of the better hitters in all of baseball this decade. At the plate Ramirez did it all that year including setting career highs in home runs and runs batted in.
• Honorable mention: Ramirez, 2004 (.318 avg 36 hr 103 rbi 99 runs). Almost all the other Cubs that played this position in the decade (and 80's and 90's for that matter) were a bunch of fuckos and might find themselves on the All-Decade Blooper Team.

Left Field: Moises Alou, 2004 (.293 avg 39 hr 106 rbi 106 runs)

• Besides peeing on his hands to toughen the skin, Alou displayed some gaudy power numbers in 2004 along with an average near .300. Alfonso Soriano's first year with the club was a very close second.
  
• Honorable mention: Alfonso Soriano, 2007 (.299 avg 33 hr 97 runs 19 sb) and Jacque Jones, 2006 (.285 avg 27 hr 81 rbi 73 runs).

Center Field: Corey Patterson, 2004 (.266 avg 24 hr 72 rbi 91 runs 32 sb)

• In 2004, Patterson played the most games in his career with the Cubs and showed why he was such a valuable prospect. The "could have been" Patterson narrowly beat out Juan Pierre and his 200 hit season.
  
• Honorable mention: Pierre, 2006 (.292 avg 87 runs 58 steals 87 runs) and Jim Edmonds, 2008 (19 hr 49 rbi 47 runs in 85 games played).

Right Field: Sammy Sosa, 2001 (.328 avg 64 hr 160 rbi 146 runs)

• What, you were expecting Milton Bradley or Jeromy Burnitz? In 2001, Sosa put up numbers so rich in one year that a good player would struggle to match in two full seasons. 306 combined runs and rbi in one year is no easy feat. This is not the proper forum to debate the "s" word, so all I can offer is this right now: Amongst his peers in that era he crushed the competition. Judge him by that.
• Honorable mention: Sosa, 2000 (.320 avg 50 hr 138 rbi 106 runs)

Starting Pitcher: Jon Lieber, 2001 (20-6 3.80 era 232 ip)
Starting Pitcher: Mark Prior, 2003 (18-6 2.43 era 245 k)
Starting Pitcher: Kerry Wood, 2003 (14-11 3.20 era 266 k)
Starting Pitcher: Carlos Zambrano, 2004 (16-8 2.75 era 188 k)
Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, 2008 (17-6 2.96 era 187 k)

• This fearsome-fivesome, in no particular ranking, all brought something a little different to the plate this decade. Lieber was the only 20 game winner this decade, finished fourth in Cy Young voting and ate up innings. Prior and Wood in 2003 were the most dominant 1-2 punch in the majors and maybe should have done what Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling did for the Diamondbacks; win a World Series in their primes. Carlos had a number of good years this decade, I took the one with his lowest earned run average. Dempster was an All-Star in 2008 and had an all around fantastic season.
• Honorable mention: Matt Clement, 2002 (12-11 3.60 era 215 k)
  
• Honorable mention: Greg Maddux, 2004 (16-11 4.02 era 212 ip)
• Honorable mention: Ted Lilly, 2008 (17-9 4.09 era 184 k)

Relief Pitcher: Carlos Marmol, 2007 (1.43 era 96 k)

• One of the better years for a reliever this decade throughout all of baseball. This was an easy choice as Carlos was filthy all year and recorded 96 strike outs in only 69 innings pitched.
• Honorable mention: Kyle Farnsworth, 2001 (2.74 era 1o7 k) and Bob Howry, 2006 (3.17 era 71 k).

Closer: Joe Borowski, 2003 (33-37 saves 2.63 era)

• Let the debate begin. Picking a Cubs closer of the decade was not easy. Joe Bo gets the nod because of blowing only 4 saves and having a nifty era. Kerry Wood could have earned this in 2008 as he was an All-Star, but he deserved a starting spot in the rotation.
• Honorable mention: Tom "Flash" Gordon, 2001 (27-31 saves 3.38 era), Ryan Dempster, 2005 (33-35 saves 3.13 era) and Wood, 2008 (34-40 saves 3.26 era).

Manager: Lou Piniella, 2008 (97-64 record and Central Division Title)

• I suppose this could go to Dusty in 2003 for making it longer in the playoffs (hell, winning a game) but having 8 All-Stars and the most wins in the majors is far enough for me, Sweet Lou.
• Honorable mention: Dusty Baker, 2003 (88-74 record and Central Division Title).

There you have it folks, the brightest and best seasons from the Cubs this decade. Please comment if you feel I left someone out or email me at: thechicagosportscritics@gmail.com. Go Cubs.

Big Mac 2

Elliott -

A quick response. While McGuire's hitting style definitely worked for him, I dont think there are a lot of big mac's in the majors nor does that approach work for a whole team. You are right Big Mac was an extremely productive hitter. But he never had to change his approach at the plate because he was juiced and his physical abilities really didnt diminish. Maybe he can teach the cards patience at the plate. but can he teach brenden harris to hit the 500 ft? I think this era is becoming more about speed and contact hitting than about mashing, not to mention that there are all different types hitters on teams.

I'm not sure on the statistics but it seems to me that most of the hitting coaches in the mlb are your journeyman/serviceable past players. Those guys are good coaches because they had to constantly work and adapt in order to compete with the naturals in baseball and therefore can work with guys to overcome slumps/problems at the dish because they have most likely been there before. It always appeared that hitting came naturally to McGuire and he didnt have to change his approach at the plate much over the years. Can big mac all of a sudden teach different types of hitting and work with guys who arent blessed with the same amount of natural power/ability as a first time coach?

Just a thought about McGwire

Pete I'm opposed to your statements about McGwire and here's why:

I'm not sure why a guy that averaged a home run every 10 at bats (mlb record) coaching Pujols and co. would be a good thing for the Cubs? Won't the Cardinal hitters be excited to learn from a legendary hitter as opposed to Hal McRae? Just a thought...but since when did McGwire become looked at in a bad light in terms of hitting? Hitting the other way is nice but not necessary if you have a game plan at the plate. McGwire waited for a pitch to pull and crush and if he didn't get it he likely walked or made an out and hit a home run against Kevin Tapani the following at bat.

The return of Big Mac

Yep, this has nothing to do with Cubs baseball or does it? As i remember, Mark McGuire was not what you called a good hitter but a guy who tried to club the ball every at bat. Not unlike Ryan Howard today. And now after he has been out of baseball for sometime, he is the Cardinals hitting coach??? Does this move make sense to anyone else besides maybe from a PR point of view? Or maybe Big Mac will teach every cardinal to become a dead pull hitter who hits .263 for their career. This seems like just a gimmick by LaRussa and the Cards to try and garner favor with their fan base after they did a cub-like performance in the postseason. An inexperienced hitting coach on a team that should contend for the central division next year. Might this be the best offseason news for cubs fans yet?

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/10270242/McGwire-joins-Cardinals-staff;-La-Russa-will-return

An amazing story

This is a story from Sports Illustrated about a kid who was born with one arm and now has a D-1 basketball scholarship to Manhattan. I would love to see this kid actually play and see how he is able to catch a pass or grab a rebound with 1 hand, as i can't do it with 2 hands. In all seriousness, his story is pretty inspiring and as it says in the article, he is fulfilling his dream.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1161587/index.htm

Hawks season update

I will try my best to summarize links so that people dont have to read the whole link but i think that this article by Jesse Rogers about the Hawks season is a very good read for hawks fans. He makes some excellent points. Mostly his points are that the Hawks are playing very well especially consider their big free agent signing is still a month away from playing. Rogers also points out that there is significant room for improvement. I would especially agree with him when he talks about the absence of Eager and Burrish and how those 2's effort and hustle are very hard to replace and the Hawks have yet to do. Especially in the playoffs, i think it was quite obvious that those two guys brought a different element to the ice than other players on the roster.

I also found it extremely interesting that some Hawks players had admitted to Rogers that the team has let up in some games because they were dominating so thoroughly and this has led to letting some teams back in the game. From what i have seen the hawks are no question one of the most talented rosters in the NHL. I think this falls upon the leaders of this young team to make sure that this trend doesnt continue because otherwise it could become a bad habit.

But, i agree with Rogers that we have just seen the tip of what the Hawks are capable of this season and it will only get better for hawks fans.

http://espn.go.com/chicago/columns/blog?post=4593669&name=rogers

Pitful

I really dont have a lot to say about yesterday's bears performance except that it left that just threw taste in my mouth. I never realized how valuable Urlacher was until yesterday. The defense looked dazed and confused and really was never set before the snap. Brian, apparently you do more well than just father illegitimate children. As for the offense........the line is terrible. My hatred for frank omiyale continues..........Bring on the Browns!

Monday Morning Review: Bears - Bengals

Sitting here at my desk, drinking coffee, wondering how blurry my eyes look and trying to figure out the best way to write an "I told you so" column. I think I'll go the modest route and just simply point out how I accurately foresaw the Bears-Bengals game.

• Like I thought: Carson Palmer proved to be a good but not quite elite quarterback.
• Like I thought: Cedric Benson was stopped early and often and was a non-factor in the game.
• Like I thought: Jay Cutler was eager to prove his worth to the Chicago Bears faithful after signing an expensive contract extension.
• Like I thought: The Bears avoided losing two in a row by narrowly beating the Bengals in a dog fight and putting them only one loss behind the Vikings for the NFC North lead.

What an exciting Bears win. Next up, a date with the Cleveland Browns led by fuck-wit head coach Eric Mangini. I only hope that the Bears pursuit of the division next Sunday is on a different time slot as game 4 of the World Series. If my hunch is right again, Carlos Zambrano will be one more magnificent start away from leading the Cubs to a four game sweep over the Yankees.

Bears v. Bengals Preview

Summary

The Bears task this week is not as easy as you think. These arent the Bengals of the past few years. Carson Palmer is healthy and showing that he deserves to in the conversation as a top 5 QB in the NFL. Somehow former Bears castoff, Cedric Benson is leading the league in rushing and OchoCinco being a decent WR again, the bengals have something going on offense. The Bengals Defense is ranked 17th in the league in points allowed and are an average nfl defense. The Bears come into this game with the 27th ranked rushing attack and having the 12th ranked defense in points allowed. The Bears need to win this game in order to keep pace with Minnesota and Green Bay.

Key Factors

Maybe the largest key for the Bears will be the offensive line. Lovie has announced that there will be no changes for this game but the Bear's offensive should dominate. The Bengals DE Odom (the league leader in sacks) is out of this game and the whole D-Line is nicked up. To be effective and keep Palmer and Co. off the field the Bears have to establish a run game and eat up the clock. Lovie says they get off the bus running but this week they must do that to eat up the clock and keep maybe the most explosive offense they have faced so far off the field.

For the defense, the key will be 3rd downs. The Bears have had no problems forcing opponents into 3rd downs but so far this season they have let their opponents convert too many. Giving Palmer chances will get you in trouble so on third downs they must not only get pressure but make sure that they try and disguise their coverages and tackle well.

Key Matchups

Palmer v. Nick Roach. I expect the Bengals to do some no-huddle as it was so effective against the Bears last week. If the plays are getting in fast enough (as was the case last week), Roach has to step up and make some defensive calls on his own. This might be a lot to ask from a guy who is only making his 3rd start as MLB but hey he has to be smart, he went to Northwestern after all. He also has to make sure that he is quick and deep with his drops otherwise i can see Palmer making a killing in the deep middle of the field.

Cutler v. Roy Williams (or other Bengals safeties). As of right now, it would appear that Williams will start. If you have watched him before, you know that he wants to play in the box and mix it up. He can be exploited in pass coverage and it will be up to Jay to recognize when Williams is matched up on a fast WR, Olsen or Forte and get them the ball and take a deep chance.

Prediction

I think this will be a closer game than most people think but in the end i think the Bears will come out on top with a last second FG from Robbie "Good as" Gould. Bears 27, Bengals 24

Critical Performer

My CP is Alex Brown. Alex, say hello to Gaines Adams who is bidding to take snaps away from you. Alex is probably the most complete D-lineman the best have and is having a good season but he needs to step it up this game. He needs to put pressure on Palmer not only for the bears to do well but also for his job security and he will do it this Sunday.