A Era Ends

Today, Peyton Manning was released by the Indianapolis Colts after fourteen stellar seasons. Two weeks ago, the Steelers let Hines Ward go after twelve special years. A decade ago, teams rarely waved goodbye to players that established themselves so fully with the team, brand, & organization. Twenty years ago this never happened. As sad as it is to admit, a era has died . . . replaced by a business associated one. The ironic thing is, the former paved the way for the latter.

Look at Peyton's case. You as long as I've watched football, Peyton Manning took the snaps for the Colts. He made them a powerhouse & constant threat for championships (winning one in 2007, Indy's first since 1970). So the team's higher-ups rewarded him for his loyalty, in the form a mega contract (five years $90 million dollars). Then he got hurt, baldy hurt. He missed the entire season last year & the Colts finished 2-14. They declared that they were rebuilding & needed Peyton's money to do so. That was why he was released. Money also played a factor in Hines being let go, for the Steelers have no cap-space room & value signing Mike Wallace over Ward. These are business decisions. This is the new NFL.

The National Anthem

It isn't a sporting event until I hear some singer or musical instrument start belting out the first lines of the Star Spangled Banner. Hearing it on television is nice, but my engine really revs when I'm sitting in the stands of PNC Park with my hat in my hand over my heart. Nothing sets the tone for a game better than the National Anthem. Hell, I even like O'Canada. I think I might have it played before my wedding . . .

The flip side of the coin is when the SSB is butchered, a cocktail of hilarious & tragic spirits. However, this doesn't happen as often as people think. Few times the anthem is awesome & most times it is average. But when it is slaughtered . . . it's usually funny. The NFL has cornered the market on fucked up anthems (Steve Taylor & Christina Aguilera). Going back to our Neighbors in the North, their anthem sounds weird when it is sung in Quebec & they splice in French lyrics. Regardless of how well a anthem is sung or played, it stills spurs my game-face on. What do you think? You like the anthem?

 

He Said What . . . ?!

I nominate this guy for Douche-Bag of the Year. I know the year is young, but he has to be a front runner. Is it so bad that Danica wants to distance herself from a stereotype? What's wrong with that asshole? And that paper flop at the end of his segment . . . completes his application form for DBOY. I'm shocked the anchorwoman didn't this to that ass-clown (she's the one wearing the black shirt):

I think I might if I ever meet this womanizing jagoff. Sorry for all the cursing.  

Happy Anniversary, Wilt Chamberlain

Fifty years ago today, in Hershey Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Warriors center Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a NBA basketball game. Do I have to tell you that's a record? The weird thing is there isn't any video or photos of from that night. Just a post-game snapshot I included below.Wilt's 1962 outing against the New York Knicks is one of those legendary sporting milestones that will probably never be broken. Kobe Bryant came close in 2007 when he burned the Tornato Raptors for 81 points, but I think Wilt's record is safe . . . for at least another fifty years. The player that breaks this record isn't born yet. I say good luck to them.

SportsCenter

My day starts like this: Wake up, stretch, piss, dress, turn on SportsCenter, eat cereal, repeat next morning.

I know I should turn on the news & be wise to the vents which shape the world. I get that, but sadly I value  who the Celtics are trying to trade over who won the Michigan Primary. I blame SportsCenter for this. The hour long show is easily more interesting & enjoyable to watch. Plus, Granola is tastier with it on. If the news wants to attract more viewers, I say they copy the format & personality of ESPN's flagship program. Or maybe I'm idiot. No, I know I'm a idiot.