Down with the BCS

I may offend some people with this blog. Big corporations and people trying to make money off of college athletes mostly.

In a nutshell, the BCS system is the biggest crock of shit in athletics period. Period.

In what other venue does the championship system give absolutely no hope to any program who does not happen to be in the conferences of the chosen few? None, that's what. In figure skating for God's sake everyone has the opportunity to make it to the national championships. The Bowl Championship Series discriminates against any small time Cinderellas or dark horses fighting for a chance at a title. There will be no 2010 Butler Bulldogs in Division 1 college football. The BCS would never allow such a thing. They only reserve those championships spots for the likes of Ohio State, USC, Florida and Texas. All small time conference powerhouses (*cough* Boise State & TCU) will never get a crack at the top as long as the powers that be can help it.

What makes the BCS system disgusting is the lack of a playoff. A team just has to win 6 games to be eligible for a trip to a bowl game. 6 games out a 12 game season. Who wants to see a .500 team playing another .500 team in the San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl? Not I, said the cat. The sheer lack of regard for honoring solid teams in this present system is utterly ridiculous. If NCAA football had a playoff situation similar to that of NCAA basketball, it would be the biggest ticket in sports. March Madness would pale in comparison to the Rumble in December.

"Oh, but the student-athletes have finals in December", the fat pocketed administrations say. First of all, what "student-athletes" (especially ones at major programs) really care about finals? And which ones aren't all but hand-fed their work up until they sit down to take the test? Spare me the phony "the student comes before the athlete" propaganda. Second, the whole test dilemma doesnt hold any water because all NCAA college basketball players are taking mid-terms during March Madness. And your point is, Mr. BCS president?

King's Ransom

Since the decision heard around the world back in July, the main story surrounding LeBron James has been what will happened when he makes his return to the shunned city of Cleveland and his old stomping ground of Quicken Loans Arena.

James' return has garnered more attention than even the Heat's lowly 12-8 record. The anger of the Cleveland fans and how LeBron would react grasped everyone's attention. ESPN dedicated hours of coverage to the story and almost salivated at the amount of boos James received as he took the court last night. James is the most hated player in the NBA and the media is eating up every last drop of hatred people have for this man.

Despite looking like a scared puppy during warmups and shaking a bit as he did his "trademark" powder toss (shoutout to MJ), James made the most of the game earning a season high 38 points as the Heat trounced the Cavs 118-90. Perhaps the highlights of the game for me came from the fan chants and signs. "LeBum" and "The Lyin' King" practically put me in stitches.

I can't say I'm not sitting back and laughing at LeBron turning into Public Enemy #1. James "Decision" special followed by his contrived "What Should I Do" commercial practically made me lose my lunch. How dare James, who has 0 championships to his name, let's not forget, take shots at Jordan who is, without a doubt, the G.O.A.T. This showcased James' arrogance and mentality that he really thinks he's above all other players and above being a classy individual and respecting the dignity of the game.

It wasn't the fact that James left his home state team after seven years, but the arrogant, attention-getting way in which he did it. If he would have held a simple press conference and said "look, I want to win a championship and things just aren't working out here in Cleveland" and quietly journeyed to Miami, people would have had a lot less anger toward him. This is exactly why former Cavs C Zydrunas Illgauskas was cheered as he took the floor in a Heat uniform.

It wasn't what he did, but how he did it, and this is why, LeBron, "Akron hates you."

Copyright @TheDivineMsRoss

Vick for MVP? Not So Fast

After the Massacre at FedEx Field, overzealous Eagles fans are starting to scream "VICK FOR MVP!" from the rooftops of every cheesesteak joint in Philly. Not so fast, young grasshoppers.

Sure, Michael Vick did dominate in the Eagles 59-28 rout of the Redskins and that may very well be the understatement of 2010. The scene was something out of a film: Michael Vick coming back from years in prison to lead the Eagles to an NFL record breaking smackdown of his former commrade Donovan McNabb and company...in the rain, no less.

Vick connected with superb young wideouts Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin as the Eagles ran up the score faster than Kat Stacks runs up miles on her body. He ran himself into the endzone as well, proving once again he's one of the best running QBs ever. Vick is now only second in rushing yards for a QB behind all time great Randall Cunningham. Former 49ers QB Steve Young loved it and all but wet himself singing Vick's praises during the postgame anaylsis saying Vick was the best to do it since, well...him.

It's no doubt that Vick's performance last night was one of the best of a QB in recent memory. It was electric. Vick, however, just isn't an MVP. The MVP award means much more than just being a great player. The team has to completely be centered around you and if you're not around, the team will subsequently crumble. Vick has a fantastic supporting cast on offense in WRs Maclin and Jackson as well as future star RB Shady McCoy. He isn't in a situation such as Tom Brady where his #1 target in the endzone left midseason. Brady is throwing to second time Patriot Deion Branch and handing off to virtual nobody Benjarvus Green-Ellis and still may lead his team deep into the playoffs.

If Vick really was doing it all by himself, I would say he is definitely a great candidate for MVP. However, because he has so many solid targets for TDs (aside from himself) he just can't possibly be looked at as the sole main contributer to that team. When Vick went down earlier this season with a rib and sternum injury, the Eagles continued to win when former starter Kevin Kolb had to step in. The fate of their winning did not rest on Vick's shoulders alone and it still doesn't now.

Copyright Marisa A. Ross
@TheDivineMsRoss

The Ballad of the Everywoman

This is a mantra for all the women who question their worth daily. For all the women who have had their hearts ripped to shreds by men who hardly even think of them. For women who look in the mirror and are greeted by cheerful dimples of cellulite. For the women whose supposed best friend drove a knife straight through their backs. And most importantly for the women who are down on themselves in some facet of life and desperately need uplifting.

Now repeat after me:

"I may not be the most beautiful or the sexiest, nor do I have the perfect body. I might not be everyone's first choice, but I'm a great choice. I don't pretend to be someone I'm not, because I'm too good at being me. I might not be proud of some of the things I've done in the past, but I'm proud of who I am today. Take me as I am or watch me as I walk away!"

As soon as I read this I had a bit of a spiritual awakening in terms of my womanhood. A warm glow appeared in my heart and I felt stronger about myself than I had five minutes ago. I read it again and smiled. After a third time I wanted to jump up and exclaim "I am woman! Hear me roar!".

I've taken this statement and embodied it. This quote raises my chin up high and puts a song in my heart. It makes me feel alive and like the queen that is inside of all of us.

Copyright Marisa A. Ross

Livin' Legend

Most athletes become legendary after they retire...or die. It's a rarity for any person to become a legend while still at work on their craft. Brett Favre is one of those rare Living Legends. The old man with salt & pepper hair, a perpetual 5 o'clock shadow, and gruff Mississippi accent has been playing in the NFL almost as long as I've been alive. I'm 25 years old.

Favre is one of, if not arguably the greatest NFL quarterback of all time. He's accomplished everything you can possibly think of in the league, yet he's still here 20 seasons later, yearning for more NFL greatness. The man has been to the Pro Bowl 11 times, 3 time First Team All Pro, 3 time NFL MVP, and the proud owner of a Superbowl ring. What is left for Favre to prove? Nothing, and that's why he's still dragging his 41 year old body out onto the gridiron week after week. Favre has nothing to prove to anyone. He simply continues to play because he loves the game and for the everlasting thrill of victory.

Yes, for the past three seasons America has had to endure Favre-gate in every offseason headlined by the constant question: "Will he or won't he reitre?" Although the media following his every move each year trying to predict whether Favre will or won't be back for another NFL season, people still cling to him and the invisible halo that practically glows around the top of his head. You see, Brett Favre is a guy's guy. An All-American cowboy type who loves football. He even slightly resembles Clint Eastwood with his reluctant smile and stoic exterior. Rough and rugged and stylin on 'em in his Wranglers, Favre is a relatable Everyman.

There is a mystique that surrounds Brett Favre just being out on the field. Having him suit up as your team's quarterback is motivation enough. Favre is the quintessential NFL Iron Man, having never missed a start since he came into the league with the Atlanta Falcons in 1992. An illness or injury has never held him down or out. In week 7, Favre suffered a fractured ankle against his old team, the Green Bay Packers, yet he is still looking towards starting against the New England Patriots this Sunday. Starting in his 20th NFL season at the age of 41 with a fractured ankle...and a granddaughter. Yes, Favre is the only true "Grandpa" in the NFL.

Even admist allegations of sending unsolicited pictures of his nether regions to former New York Jets employee, Jenn Sterger, America seems to have looked the other way because it's Brett Favre, and he's football's good guy. After all, everyone makes mistakes, right? He's a motivator on the field and a classic guy next door off of it. Whether you love Favre because he has endured 20 seasons without missing a beat or despise him because he has put your favorite team to shame year after year, you have to respect the man as the living legend that he is.

Copyright Marisa A. Ross

@ 'Em or Dap 'Em

Social networking sites have made it easier for us to communicate with friends and even meet new ones. We share jokes, news, and debate on sites like Facebook and Twitter. MySpace doesn't count anymore, sorry Tom.

Unfortunately, the myriad of social networking sites also gives us something that we may not otherwise have: passive aggressive behavior. When behind a computer screen, people tend to take on a slightly different persona. A tougher version of themselves. Since no one is in their face to confront them, people tend to talk more recklessly, often times about another person. Do they ever include this person's name in the subliminal internet shots though? Hardly.

Welcome to the wonderful world of subliminals. Twitter and Facebook statuses are notorious for these catty, shot taking messages that don't actually take direct shots at anyone. "I wish some people would STFU. You're frontin' for Twitter." Do you see a name in there? Nope. I'm sure the person who it's about knows it's referring to them, though. But when confronting the spineless subtweeter, all they can do is smirk and say "Nah, that wasn't about you, I swear."

What is the point of all this? Insulting someone without actually insulting them. The target KNOWS it's about them, but can provide no real proof. It all comes with the fact that there are no consequences for spitting a subliminal off at the mouth, or in this case, at the tips of your fingers. People can passively smack talk with no repurcussions or risk of someone giving them a right hook to the jaw.

Gone are the days when people handled their issues like men and women. Present are the days when no one wants to take  responsibility for their actions and words. We would rather hide behind a computer screen and get tough than face our problems head on.

Is this blog post referring to you? *smirks* Nah, it's not about you, I swear.

Copyright Marisa A. Ross

Long Live the Panic Bowl

Greetings sports fans. Before I get into my blog I want to sincerely apologize for being MIA the last two weeks. I've had some major life shifts going on and my blogging has suffered because of it. I'm back though and will be blogging regularly again. Let's go!

Entering week 6 of the NFL season who would have thought the Vikings and Cowboys would both be struggling for a win. I presume they're not as bad as the destitute 49ers, who despite having only one win on the year, one NFL analyst who shall remain nameless picked them to reach the Superbowl. However, both the Vikings and Cowboys entered the 2010 season highly touted for a stellar year.

The Vikings had QB Brett Favre back again after yet another tumoltuous offseason filled with the constant "will he or won't he retire" splendor. Once defensive sack master Jared Allen, among other fellow Vikings, flew down to Hattiesburg to physically retrieve Favre and bring him back to Minnesota, the team now was looking toward another run at a Superbowl.

Further south, the Cowboys and flamboyant owner Jerry Jones had their sights set on making it to their first Superbowl of the new millenium. Sudden star Miles Austin, rookie sensation Dez Bryant, and a finally healthy Felix Jones were expected to lead the 'Boys into the Big Show after years of postseason blunder.

Nothing has worked out that way for either team though. Star Vikings WR Sidney Rice had hip surgery before the season and will miss at least eight games. Grasping at straws in their receiving corps, the Vikings traded for disgruntled Patriots Pro Bowler Randy Moss hoping to provide a boost on offense. The Cowboys haven't struggled too much with injuries, but rather with mental mistakes. Too many flags have been thrown their way and on stupid things like excessive endzone celebration. Come on son.

When the week 6 match up between the Vikings and Cowboys came up, it was fittingly dubbed the Panic Bowl. Two teams who no one thought would be in this position were panicking already in week 6. The Vikings remained calm, however, and topped the Cowboys 24-21. Miles Austin gave the 'Boys yet another yellow flag after leap frogging Roy Williams in the Vikings endzone after a superior TD. What was he thinking? It seems Mr. Austin's inflated bank account isn't the only thing that's blown up lately. His head seems to have gotten pretty bloated as well. Now the question is when and if the Cowboys can get it together this season. Their offense appears solid and their defense excellent. So what exactly is their problem? Why can't they win?

Seems like the Cowboys' main issue doesn't lie on the field, but instead in the cushy comfort of a luxury suite high above the 50 yard line.

Copyright Marisa A. Ross

"Special" Doesn't Mean Short Bus

Defense wins championships. Offense wins games. Superior special teams play wins both.

Special teams is the forgotten part of football. Kickoff, punt return, and the kicking corps are often looked at as the dregs of a football team. Special teams is usually made up of the guys who barely made the 53 man roster and the only way to do so was to shine in an area no one particularly cares about. How humbling an experience that must be.

The only time special teams gets a rousing ovation from the crowd is when a kickoff is returned 50+ yards for a touchdown or a kicker wins the game by sending the ball through the goal posts off the end of his toe. Other than that, special teams is about as special as riding the short bus to school.

During Monday Night Football, however, the New England Patriots showed America just how clutch a special teams unit can be. The Patriots not only defeated the Dolphins in their house, they down right embarassed them. Much of the win can be attributed to their stunning special teams play.

The Patriots special teams played with an animalistic ferver, making hard hits left and right. Second year safety Patrick Chung out of Oregon proved himself to be a man beast on special teams by blocking not one, but two kicks. Chung again starred on defense as he took a pick to the house. In one of those blocked punts, the Patriots returned the ball for a TD. Special teams for the Patriots took away several points from the Dolphins and took the wind out of their sails as they were at it.

Special teams can be difference makers, whether we recognize it or not. A blocked punt here, a returned kick for a touchdown there can make or break a game. Even a solid kick return can set up a team in great field position for their next drive. If their kick returner only got 10 yards, they might not be able to get in the position they need to score off that drive. More and more coaches are starting to put pressure and more energy into developing their special teams for these specific reasons.

The Dolphins responded by firing their own special teams coach the morning after the Patriots loss. Now, isn't that special?

Copyright Marisa A. Ross
@TheDivineMsRoss

Here Come the Giant Killers

Three years ago, the New York Football Giants began a humble season. They were good, yes, but they were nothing in comparison to the dynasty of the New England Patriots, who marched through the 2008 regular season unscathed. Meanwhile the Giants were quietly climbing in the standings and before everyone had a second to blink, my beloved team had made it to the Superbowl.

Led by quarterback Eli Manning, the Giants bravely took the field in Glendale, Arizona. It looked like a classic David vs Goliath matchup. The unbeaten Patriots were in search of the perfect season, the first one since the famed '72 Dolphins. New England was supposed to have no problem beating the Giants and Don Shula was shaking in his boat shoes. Of course, it didn't end so happily for the Patriots. Manning famously connected with WR Plaxico Burress in the Patriots' endzone, giving the Giants the prized Lombardi Trophy and Shula a little peace of mind.

So what the hell has happened to the Giants since then?

The glory of winning Superbowl XLII quickly dissipated as the Giants sunk back into the abyss. It seems like several key factors contributed to the Giants' fall from grace. Plaxico Burress famously Cheddar Bob'd himself and landed in prison for a 2 year stint. Defensive coordiantor/mastermind Steve Spagnuolo left New York to coach the ailing St. Louis Rams. Brandon Jacbos seemingly forgot how to run like an big NFL running back. Instead of looking like a freight train barreling through defensive lines, Jacobs now looks like Thomas the Tank Engine running with absolutely no authority.

Week 3's loss against the Tennessee Titans solidified the fact that there are some major issues with the Giants that extend beyond the talent level on the field or actual football mechanics. The Giants had FIVE personal foul flags thrown against them. Late hits and thrown punches cost the Giants yards and yards as Chris Johnson ran through their defense and scored two touchdowns on his own. Two other opportunties in the Red Zone for the Giants to score ended in absolutely nothing. They even missed a field goal. Yes, a field goal. Lineman Kareem McKenzie was booed coming off the field after he backhanded a Titans player. What are you doing trying to hit a player who's wearing full pads and a helmet, genius?

Giants fans looked to be in absolute dismay at the conclusion of the Titans game. What had happened to the gritty hard nosed Giants who took that Lombardi Trophy back to New York? These new-look Giants, with their prima donna attitudes (shout out to Brandon Jacobs) and an extreme lack of effort, have a 1-2 record going into week 4 versus a hyped up Bears squad who just came off a huge win against Green Bay.

Fee, fi, foe, fum. The fear of the Big Blue has come and gone.

Copyright Marisa Ross
Follow me on Twitter @TheDivineMsRoss

Out of the Dog House

When it comes to making decisions, Andy Reid has never had much definitiveness. The only time Reid seems to make a good decision is when he decides to get a Diet Coke with his Big Mac meal. Much to the shock of the sports community, Reid decided to make an executive decision that actually betters his team and gives them hope to having a solid season.

Michael Vick is back.

Vick was named the starting QB on Tuesday, and it has nothing to do with starter Kevin Kolb's concussion. He has won back his starting gig for the first time since before he went to prison for playing Ultimate Fighter with Fluffy and Spike.

With legs of fury, Vick has sped across the field in the past two games and reminds us why he's one of the greatest running quarterbacks ever. Having Vick as the Eagles starter is one of the best moves Reid could have made for the team. Now the offense won't have to rely so much on passing to wideout DeSean Jackson or getting the ball into RB Shady McCoy's hands. With Vick in it gives the Eagles another threat and option on offense.

Now Andy Reid just needs to keep making good decisions. Maybe now we can get him to purchase some Sketchers Shape Ups to rock on the sidelines. Or not.

Never 'Trust' Indian Givers

Reggie Bush's name has basically been all but inihalated from the record books at the University of Southern California. It's almost like he never existed there. I wonder if his academic has one big black bar across it that just says "VOID". To be honest, Reggie might as well rep his high school instead of USC when he announces himself for his NFL games. It's not like USC claims him anymore anyway.

Bush has been embattled with the university for years in the whole "did he or didn't he" with whether Bush cheated his way through his years at USC financially receiving lavish gifts from a prospective agent who would soon become his actual one when he declared for the NFL draft. It's no secret Bush reaped the underground benefits of being a star football player in one of the most storied programs in all of college sports. However, here we are in 2010. Should Bush be punished and have his beloved Heisman Trophy taken away five years after the fact?

The Heisman Trophy trust says yes, that Bush should and will be stripped of his achievement leaving the award vacant. Bush didn't give the trust enough time to even render a decision. He decided Tuesday to revoke his Heisman as a means to hopefully put this situation behind him.

Runner up Vince Young could potentially be awarded the trophy in his place, but would he really want now after so many years? And after he didn't really win it? That's like sleeping with your best friend's ex. I certainly don't need anyone's leftovers.

I think Bush should've fought it out to the end to keep his Heisman. The trust thinks their infinite power should just be able to give and take away at will, from a kid who fought his heart out to earn that trophy. No amount of money could have changed his talent level in the game of football. After all, he earned it on the field, not at the bank.

The $54 Million Dollar Man

Imagine getting $54 million dollars for six straight years of your life for having one good year at work. That's Miles Austin's reality right now. And to top that off, he gets to take down Kim Kardashian every night. Then again, who in his professional field hasn't?

Austin is a solid WR, yes, but one amazing year isn't enough to justify a $54 million dollar contract extension in my eyes. The Cowboys are the Yankees of football. They have no problem shelling out millions to their top-tier players. There's one difference between the Yankees' high salaries and the Cowboys making this play on Miles Austin: Austin isn't exactly what I would call proven yet.

Yes, Austin had an amazing breakout season in 2009 being elected to the Pro Bowl without even starting the entire season, but was this one year a fluke or is it foreshadowing for the next several seasons to come? The Cowboys seem to agree with the latter, fattening Austin's bank account ten fold. I compare Austin to another wideout with a breakthrough year in '09: Wes Welker of the Patriots. Would you pay Welker a $54 million dollar extension? All I hear is crickets.

After starting last season as the #3 wideout for the 'Boys, Austin solidified himself as Tony Romo's #1 offensive target this season. They gave this man 3 Pro Bowl season money though, not breakout season money. This deal could even backfire on the Jerry Jones and the Cowboys brass. Austin could get over-confident and therefore complacent on the field. He might not be as hungry this season since he doesn't have much to prove to anyone this time around. I mean, the Cowboys think he's worth $54 mil, why wouldn't everyone agree and bow down to kiss his feet?

Even if Austin crashes and burns this season or has a mediocre year compared to 2009, at least all those dead presidents will keep his girl Kim warm at night.

@TheDivineMsRoss

Will the REAL Chris Johnson Please Stand Up?

Chris Johnson is in my fantasy league. You know, the guy with the dreads and gold fronts who only ran for 2,000+ yards last season?

Yes, THAT Chris Johnson.

This is a true statement that I'm willing to put on everything I love.

I've been friends with Chris for about 2 years so yesterday we were chatting on BBM. When I told him yesterday that my fantasy draft was after work he replied with one statement: "I want in. How do I get in on ya'll league?" At first I chuckled because there was no way in hell THE Chris Johnson would want to join my tiny 6 man office fantasy football league. Little did I know, Chris was very serious. He's never played fantasy football before and wanted to try it out on one condition: If he could draft himself. I figured my coworkers wouldn't mind giving up the first pick to the man who we were all gunning for as the first pick ourselves.

Our league is through Yahoo Fantasy Sports so we set Chris up with a Yahoo e-mail (he didn't have one) and he joined our league. He dubbed his team "GreenTeam" in tribute to his friends. Since this was Chris' first fantasy experience he really had no idea how the fantasy system even worked so I stepped into one of my office conference rooms and along with my co-worker Matt, explained to Chris Johnson exactly how fantasy football works.

Chris was really fired up about the notion of playing himself in fantasy football. He BBMed me what picks he wanted and when he got a break from football he called in during our live draft and did the draft right along with us over the phone. My co-workers Derek and Mike were so thrilled by this they could barely contain themselves when they got the opportunity to speak to Chris as I had him on speaker phone.

The draft took a total of 2 hours and because our league is so miniscule we've doubled the amount of starters as a usual team. We're playing each week with SIX starting wideouts and FOUR starting RBs. Crazy huh?

Chris will of course be starting himself each week and for someone who has never played a down of fantasy football he had perhaps the best draft out of all of us! Here's how all our teams broke down:

Chris:
QB: T. Brady
QB: B. Favre
RB: C. Johnson (obviously)
RB: J. Stewart
RB: R. Brown
RB: D. Sproles
WR: R. Moss
WR: D. Jackson
WR: G. Jennings
WR: K. Britt
WR: D. Bryant
WR: P. Garcon
TE: J. Finley
TE: K. Winslow
Flex: F. Jones
Flex: D. McFadden
K: S. Gostkowski
K: J. Feely
DEF: Eagles
DEF: Vikings
B: E. Doucet
B: M. Stafford
B: J. Shockey
B: S. Slaton
B: S. Holmes
B: L. Washington
B: K. Walter
B: B. Scaife
B: T. Heap
B: J. Gaffney

Matt:
QB: M. Shaub

QB: J. Flacco
RB:  M. Jones-Drew
RB: R. Grant
RB: C. Benson
RB: R. Williams
WR: C. Johnson
WR: S. Smith (CAR)
WR: M. Sims-Walker
WR: D. Driver
WR: J. Maclin
WR: R. Meachem
TE: T. Gonzalez
TE: B. Celek
Flex: L. Tomlinson
Flex: J. Knox
K: N. Kaeding
K: R. Bironas
DEF: Ravens
DEF: Saints
B: G. Olsen
B: C. Henne
B: C. Portis
B: B. Berrian
B: D. Heyward-Bey
B: M. Lynch
B: T. Hightower
B: M. Manningham
B: V. Young
B: A. Gonzalez

Bill:
QB: T. Romo

QB: J. Cutler
RB: A. Peterson
RB: M. Turner
RB: S. Greene
RB: L. McCoy
WR: R. Wayne
WR: R. White
WR: A. Boldin
WR: D. Bowe
WR: H. Ward
WR: T. Owens
TE: J. Witten
TE: H. Miller
Flex: M. Bush
Flex: M. Barber
K: L. Tynes
K: A. Vinatieri
DEF: 49ers
DEF: Cowboys
B: M. Ryan
B: L. Evans
B: S. Moss
B: L. Maroney
B: B. Edwards
B: M. Cassel
B: S. Rice
B: M. Massaquoi
B: A. Collie
B: J. Carlson

Mike
QB: P. Manning

QB: E. Manning
RB: R. Rice
RB: S. Jackson
RB: D. Williams
RB: P. Thomas
WR: B. Marshall
WR: L. Fitzgerald
WR: S. Smith (NYG)
WR: W. Welker
WR: M. Crabtree
WR: H. Nicks
TE: O. Daniels
TE: Z. Miller
Flex: C.J. Spiller
Flex: J. Addai
K: R. Longwell
K: R. Succop
DEF: Steelers
DEF: Patriots
B: J. Jones
B: D. McCluster
B: C. Williams
B: L. Robinson
B: A. Bradshaw
B: J. Harrison
B: F. Jackson
B: J. Cotchery
B: V. Jackson
B: A. Smith

Derek:
QB: D. Brees
QB: P. Rivers
RB: R. Mathews
RB: A. Foster
RB: J. Charles
RB: M. Forte
WR: A. Johnson
WR: M. Austin
WR: M. Floyd
WR: N. Burleson
WR: M. Williams (TB)
WR: C. Schilens
TE: D. Clark
TE: A. Gates
Flex: K. Moreno
Flex: J. Forsett
K: M. Crosby
K: G. Gano
DEF: Bengals
DEF: Broncos
B: B. Roethlisberger
B: C. Cooley
B: D. McNabb
B: B. Jacobs
B: D. Brown
B: B. Scott

B: J. Walker

B. D. Aromashodu

B: T. Gerhart

B: C. Chambers

 

Marisa (a.k.a. ME - The Divine Ms. Ross)

QB: A. Rodgers

QB: C. Palmer

RB: F. Gore

RB: R. Mendenhall

RB: J. Best

RB: C. Wells

WR: M. Colston

WR: C. Ochocinco

WR: M. Wallace

WR: S. Breaston

WR: G. Tate

WR: P. Harvin

TE: V. Davis

TE: V. Shiancoe

Flex: T. Jones

Flex: D. Keller

K: G. Hartley

K: D. Akers

DEF: Jets

DEF: Packers

B: K. Kolb

B: T. Houshmenzadeh

B: B. Hartline

B: E. Royal

B: J. Gresham

B. D. Mason

B: M. Sanchez

B: A. Hernandez

B: J. Delhomme

 

How do you like them apples?

Let's Get It: Fantasy Football Motivation 2010

The magazines are just about shredded from flipping them from cover to cover in search of my perfect running back. My fingers might have developed some new type of carpal tunnel syndrome after hours spent typing away online weeding through quarterbacks. My dome piece is pounding from racking my brain about whether to take two RBs first or a RB and a WR. All of this pain for what, you may ask? It’s all for the glory and bragging rights among my fellow office brethren.

Fantasy football is here.

Yes, I may be a fierce sports aficionado and makeup artist at night but 40 long hours a week I spend selling my soul to Corporate America. Luckily one thing all of us office drones have in common though, is our love of the pigskin. Good old American football.

My league is small being that there are only 6 souls brave enough to risk their sports knowledge reputation and $20 entry fee to hopefully come out on top of the dog pile at the end of the season. I’m the lone female in my league and I’m going to do my best to represent for the fairer gender and tonight the games begin.

After work today we’ll indulge in a few adult beverages at happy hour and do some final last minute draft strategizing for a couple hours. And yes, it’s that serious. 6:30 P.M. kicks off our live fantasy draft in one of our conference rooms that are supposed to be used for actual work instead of fantasy football. Because our league is so small, (we’re the only normal people in the office who actually enjoy normal things such as football), we’re having double the amount of players as a normal league. 30 players per team. Let me reiterate. 30 PLAYERS PER TEAM. Can we say epic?

I’ll be picking with the 6th and 7th picks as we do the usual snake formation for drafting. I’m looking at taking two RBs in a row or a RB and a WR with my first two picks. Based on my draft position I’m thinking about trying to land Frank Gore and Andre Johnson. I might piggyback Johnson with Matt Schaub if I can snag him in a later round as well.

Unfortunately I likely won’t be picking too many of my beloved New York Giants this draft and I’m strongly considering taking the Cowboys’ defense. That was painful to type. We’ll see what this fantasy season has for the Manningham and Cheese team.

GAME ON.

The Rebuilding of New Orleans and the Rebirth of the New Orleans Saints

My family is from New Orleans. I have strong New Orleans roots and the spirit of New Orleans runs through my veins. I visit my family there every year and I never want to leave. New Orleans is the type of place that is so alive with its food, culture, and people it almost feels like it's its own buzzing organism.

Then the storm came. Hurricane Katrina barreled through the Gulf, leaving nothing but death and destruction in her wake. At this time five years ago my father and I were frantically calling my grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins in New Orleans trying to get answers as to if they had lost their homes, possessions, or even their lives. Fortunately for my family almost everyone escaped the storm unscathed, except for my uncle who lost his entire home as it was washed away by the Mississippi River.

Five years later New Orleans is still rebuilding, and the one constant source of happiness and hope this city has had during this time of turmoil has been the New Orleans Saints. Yes, the Hornets are also loved in the Bayou but as you know and I know there is nothing like the passion for football in the South.

The Saints have almost always been a source of heartache for the New Orleans faithful with the exception of its savior Archie Manning back in the 70's. Enter Drew Brees. When Brees joined the Saints after leaving the San Diego Chargers in 2006 he not only rejuvenated the Saints offense, but the entire city. Brees' spot on passes and leadership on the field helped the Saints gain confidence and eventually to a nearly perfect season last year ending with a Superbowl win. To make things even more lively, the championship coincided with Mardi Gras in February. You know Bourbon Street was rockin' for weeks. If anyone can lead this team into glory, it's Brees. The man is so loved in New Orleans, the people practically revere him. My auntie even gave her new puppy a very special name... Drew Brees.

Saints fans say Brees and his soldiers can do it again this year. Another magical season. Another championship. Another glimmer of hope for the people of New Orleans.

The Opposite Sex 101: Actions > Words

Our mothers have always seemed to tell us "Actions speak louder than words" and you know what? No truer words have ever been spoken. We always seem to have to consciously remind ourselves of this seemingly obvious fact of life though.

When it comes to romantic relationships we have a far easier time turning a blind eye when our object of affection is talking a big game but isn't living up to expectations. How many times have we bought dreams from sellers who are full of more lies than a used car salesman?

"Yeah baby you know all I wanna do is be with you." Meanwhile you've called them and they haven't responded in two days.

"I'm gonna start making more time for you soon. I've just been really busy lately". Meanwhile they stay tweeting like it's their full-time job.

"I'm gonna come see you really soon when I get some time". Meanwhile the last time you saw them Antonio Cromartie didn't have any kids yet.

Let's all say it together: Come. On. Son.

Anyone can say anything to anybody at anytime. But most of these people will do absolutely nothing to back up their claims. If someone is into you, they'll show it. They'll call, make time to spend with you, care about things that are important to you, and make sure that you know you're important to them.

If someone says they're "busy" as an excuse as to why they've been M.I.A. from your life for days on end but they allegedly really care about you, they might as well clock out now. President Obama isn't too busy to make time for Michelle so you know them with their little 9-5 job and nightly ESPN viewing isn't too busy to send you a text or give you a call.

Don't listen to what anyone says. Watch what they do. Their actions will speak volumes about just how interested they really are.

"Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the NY Jets" Review - Part Two

*SPOILER ALERT* Don't read if you don't want to know what happened in this week's episode.

Sorry I'm a tad late with this week's "Hard Knocks" review, sports fans. I'm back though. Don't all clap at once. -_-

This week's episode of "Hard Knocks" featured a lot less F-bombs courtesy of coach Rex Ryan and frankly it disappointed me a little bit. After former Indianapolis Colts coach and well renouned classy guy Tony Dungy slammed Ryan for being so crass around his players it was clear the never shy Jets coach was trying to tone it down for the cameras this week.

Dungy expressed great disgust with Ryan stating that he would never hire someone who acted like that in a lockerroom. But to be honest, no disrespect Coach Dungy, but the Jets aren't your team. If that's not how you want to coach your players that's A-OK, but if that's how Ryan gets his team fired up and playing hard then more power to him.

Even with the toned down language this week the episode was still full of classic one liners like Bart Scott saying rookie RB Joe McKnight is just mad he's taking a pay cut by coming to the Jets after leaving the lucrative USC. QB Mark Sanchez talked about his love for all things orange flavored, making the audience realize he really is just a big kid playing in a big league. When one of the Jets punters ordered 100 Shake Weights for the entire team and the players started testing them out on the field, the morning stretching exercises looked even more suspect.

Linebacker turned Defensive End turned NFL Draft Bust Vernon Gholston was featured as well showing his struggles to adjust to a new defensive scheme as he transitioned from Ohio State to the Jets. Gholston seems to finally be getting some fire in his belly though and is starting to get some aggression on the field. We all know the NFL is a grown man's game and if you're out there timid on the field you're going to be going nowhere fast.

@TheDivineMsRoss

The Return of Monday Night Football and of the New York Football Giants

*Cue music*

Da, Da, Da, DAAAAA!

What other theme song can get you as hyped as that of the one for Monday Night Football? It's back ladies and gentleman. The showdown between MY New York Football Giants and the New York Jets marked the first Monday Night Football game of the season. Even if it was just pre-season, the atmosphere in the shiny new Meadowlands Stadium was electric.

Although it was a home game for the Jets, the brazen Giants fans made their presence known as did the Giants themselves, delivering the home team a crushing 31-16 defeat. 

The Jets defense looked rock solid as usual. I mean hey, even I plan on using it for my fantasy team this season. Even they couldn't stop the Giants offense led by a surprising star of the night in undrafted rookie wideout Victor Cruz out of UMass. In one of this two touchdowns, Cruz made a one handed snag from backup QB Jim Sorgi and took it to the house for 64 yards. Not bad for a 1-AA kid from Patterson. If Cruz doesn't get signed the G-Men are doing themselves a real disservice. We all know game situations are twice as fast as practice ones. Three magnificent plays under the bright lights of Monday Night Football while fighting for a place on his first NFL squad? I think this kid is the real deal.

Sorgi stepped in for face of the franchise Eli Manning when he was battered and bloodied after getting a helmet to the face courtesy of Jets defender Jim Leonhard. Manning, in true warrior fashion, trooped off the field and almost looked annoyed that his fresh white jersey had blood spatters on it.

Big Brandon Jacobs also impressed me last night by finally returning to his 2008 Superbowl form and running with some authority. Last season Jacobs appeared to be running scared whenever he touched the ball. In last night's game though he looked like the true powerful back he is. I hope he can keep up this explosiveness into the season. If him and Bradshaw stay healthy I think our backs will be good looks for Eli.

The Giants gave me something to smile about last night after the embarassment that was last season with guys barely looking like they even wanted to be on the field, let alone win. Despite losing key reserve Chase Blackburn to a knee injury, the team looked positive and as a cohesive unit on the field. The new look Giants appeared hungry to get back to the top of the NFC East and that is exactly where they belong.

"Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the NY Jets" Review - Part One

*SPOILER ALERT* Don't read if you don't want to know what happened in this week's episode. I will do a weekly recap of each "Hard Knocks" episode this season.

"Hard Knocks" is one of my favorite shows, sports related or not. I watch every season regardless of who the team is that's featured. Hell, I even watched the multiple "Hard Knocks" on the Dallas Cowgirls... er... Cowboys. This season features my most hated crosstown rival: the New York Jets.

The first episode had so much comedy in it I was forgetting for a moment that I even had a passionate hatred for that other New York team. Head coach Rex Ryan provided much of the humor, constantly cracking jokes and dropping unabashed F-Bombs.

A classic moment came when linebackers coach Jeff Weeks was caught using tanning oil and running shirtless by Ryan. The shirtless running cost Weeks a $5 dollar fine. Ryan has to pay fines of his own whenever he's caught eating a lard laden snack as to hopefully not derail the corpulaent coach from his weight loss goals.

Darrelle Revis' noticeable absence didn't stop "Hard Knocks" from focusing much of the episode on his highly publicized holdout. At first, I completely agreed with Revis request to restructure his contract after having a standout first two years in the NFL. However now after the saga has continued further and further into training camp I have to say he's now erring on the side of selfishness. Revis is requesting a whopping $160 million over 10 years, averaging to $16 million a year which averages to $1 million per game. The Jets offered $12 million a year for 10 years but for Revis a million dollars a month just isn't enough.

I think Revis needs to bite the bullet and get into camp, because as much as it pains me to say this, the Jets are stacked with or without him.

@TheDivineMsRoss

If You Can't Stand the Heat, Get Out of the Kitchen

As soon as LeBron James ripped off his Cleveland Cavs jersey in their Conference Finals loss to Boston's Big Green Machine this year we all knew we were about to enter upon one of the sports media's biggest love fests in recent memory... and we did.

Enter: LeBron-gate. the LeBron saga of would the free agent SF stay loyal to Cleveland or bolt to a bigger market team took over ESPN and virtually every sports media outlet. Everytime LeBron took a piss or took out the trash, rerporters were there chonicling his every move. The LeBron fiasco was almost worse than back to back years of Favre-gate.

When LeBron finally revealed he was going to the Miami Heat along with recent Raptors refugee Chris Bosh in his much contrived hour long special "The Decision" (which aired live on ESPN -_-), the next big question was: OK, now when will they win a championship?

If the Heat don't win a championship in 2011, this entire soap opera of the Heat trying to build their own Big Three like Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen did in Boston will be all for nothing. The Celtics Big Three came in an instantaneously won an NBA title that season showing us all that "anything is possible". Since the Heat are mimmicking the Celtics big move from a few years ago, all of America is expecting the same instant results.

The sports media is thirsting and hovering on the edge of their seats waiting to see if the Heat come through with a championship. If they don't, much of the ire will likely be directed at Mr. James himself, who many are already disgusted with after the way he handled his exit in Cleveland which showed a lack of class and loyalty. It's also in question whether a primma donna like LeBron will be able to handle taking a backseat to Heat star Dwyane Wade, who is the captain of that ship.

If the Heat don't produce an NBA title this season they may as well get out of the kitchen because there is going to be a lot of backlash after all of the offseason hooplah surrounding them.

Oh You Fancy Huh?

Hair done, nails done, everything did.

Being a woman might be the best thing ever and being an extremely feminine woman is even better than that. Makeup, sky high heels, push up bras, pedicures, and hair appointmentsare the quintessential necesssities for any femme fatale.

Yet why everyday on social networking sites, lunch breaks, and drunken happy hours are men stating that they don't like women who wear makeup? Do they not know that the likes of Alicia Keys and Christina Milian have a caked on arsenal of product on their faces everytime they're photographed on the red carpet?

Makeup itself is not the enemy, the enemy is the heavy hand who doesn't know how to correctly apply it. Properly applied makeup is only to enhance one's natural beauty, not to mask it. If you don't use proper makeup application techniques you'll end up looking like Crusty the Clown instead of channeling Beyonce.

Here are a few tips to make the most out of your natural beauty with the assistance of makeup:

1. Blend, blend, blend. Your neck should never be a different color than your face. Blend foundation with your fingers or a sponge.

2. When you find a blush color that works perfectly on your skin, stick to it. You don't need a million shades of blush like you do with lipstick or eyeshadow.

3. Don't be afraid of color on your lids. Just make sure the colors compliment your skintone and play up your eyes.

4. Always use concealer under your eyes even if you don't have bags or extremely dark circles. It'll always make you appear more rejuvenated.

5. Using an angled eyebrow shadow brush on your brows will make them nice and defined without the harshness of a pencil. An eyebrow gel brush swept across them will give them a great finish and hold stray hairs in place.

6. A highlight color on the brow bone (the area right underneath your eyebrow) will give your eyes a finished look. Highlight colors are usually shimmery and are a shade or two lighter than your skintone.

7. I also love to use a highlight color on the tear duct area on the inside of your eyes. This opens up your eyes and really makes them pop.

8. Since we all love a nice summer tan it's smart to get both a winter and summer foundation since your skintone does change throughout the year.

9. Don't be too heavy with eyeliner during the day. Daytime eyeliner should only be used in the waterline on your lower lid to give your eyes a softer frame.

10. Have fun with makeup! If you're not good at it, grab some issues of Vogue and try to copy the looks that you see in the magazine. I'm self taught and the only way I learned was through practice.

@TheDivineMsRoss

The Unfortunate Phenomenon that is #TheThirst

We've all been there. We're sitting in our cubicles at work or struggling to stay awake in class and we hear our phone vibrate. A tiny rush of excitement runs through our bodies when we see we've gotten a new text.

"Hey stranger. Why don't you ever hit me up anymore?"

You let out a silent groan for this is yet another text from the person who just doesn't understand that you're not interested. The person who I've not so politely dubbed #TheThirst.

#TheThirst can be anyone interested in you with the potential to develop into a Stage 5 Clinger and can strike at anytime. What #TheThirst fails to comprehend is that you're just simply not interested in them. No matter how many times you've tried to reiterate this fact, they keep coming back like a Kat Stacks herpes outbreak.

There are some classic warning signs that someone infatuated you might be #TheThirst:

1) They hit you with the "hey stranger" text. This should never be used. Not even in a joking way.

2) They ask who every opposite sex person is who has ever written on your wall and automatically assume you took them down last night.

3) They comment on Facebook pictures from 2007 in 2010.

4) As soon as your Facebook chat window opens there #TheThirst is with an instantaneous message.

5) #TheThirst just so happens to show up to the club that you tweeted you were going to be at tonight.

6) They constantly refer to the two of you's future even though you've chilled twice.

7) They call you multiple times in a row even after you didn't answer the first time. And left a voicemail. Then texted you.

8) If you tell them you're taken #TheThirst will try to ask what does your relationship have to do with them.

9) They've ever offered to drink your bath water. I mean hey, they're thirsty.

10) They'll try to cuff you in ANY public setting. No synagogue, baby shower, or funeral is safe.

There really is no cure to get rid of #TheThirst. Offering them a Dasani or a Gatorade only momentarily bruises their ego but they always seem to be ready and willing to come back for yet another rejection.

If you ever feel yourself slipping into #Thirst mode, stop yourself. Do you really want to end up as the next trending topic on Twitter? No matter how much you like someone please.... keep your dignity.

Stay thirsty my friends.

Revis Island... Population: One

     Revis Island is the place where complete passes go to die. Saying Jets CB Darrelle Revis is a beast on the defensive end of the ball is a gross understatement to say the least. Since joining the Jets as a first round selection in 2007, Revis has more than held up his end of the bargain that comes with putting all of a team’s faith in a top draft pick. He has been a two-time Pro Bowler, an All-Pro selection, and the NFL defensive player of the year last season to top all that off. Revis is the absolute epitome of a complete lockdown corner and is the best CB in the game right now.
     So why is Darrelle Revis not getting the financial respect he deserves?

     After three days of training camp Revis is still a no-show after continued contract disputes with the Jets. Revis’ rookie contract is a 6 year deal worth $30 million with a guaranteed $11 million. $5 million dollars a year certainly isn’t minimum wage but for the best CB in the game? In the words of Chad OchoCinco… “Child please”. Raiders star CB Nnamdi Asomugha’s extension with the team has him making $45.3 million over 3 years. Meanwhile only $1 million is set to get delivered to Revis Island this season. The gap between the two players’ salaries is drastic.

     Now are we looking at Revis as Michael Crabtree 2.0? No, because Revis has already clearly gone above and beyond proving himself on the field. Titans star RB Chris Johnson reported to camp after contract disputes all spring with the organization. After CJ2K ran for an astounding 2,006 yards last season you would think the Titans would be more than happy to give their offensive juggernaut the money he deserves. The fact that there was even a tug of war over his contract was ridiculous to say the least.

     Normally I attest player holdouts to them being selfish cry babies who need to get on the field and start studying their playbook. In Revis’ and Johnson’s case I have to agree that these players, who’s fantastic play has carried a lot of their teams weight, are rightfully entitled to a significant raise. Why are owners so quick to give first round rookies insanely bloated salaries (like Sam Bradford for $50 million guaranteed) when they have yet to even see an NFL snap let alone get the numbers and accolades like Revis and Johnson have? I think the owners are a bit confused and need to reverse their train of thought when it comes to paying players who deserve it.

Fat Albert: Spreadin' Like Butter

     What would you say to a Washington Redskins fan right now? I mean, being a 'Skins fan is hard as it is. All the young talent in the world but they just can't ever seem to put a solid team together. At least in recent memory.
     Enter Albert Haynesworth. This 6'6 350 pound defensive man beast was supposed to be the Redskins' saving grace after being signed before the 2009 season when he parted ways with the Tenessee Titans. Unfortunately it seems all Big Al is saving lately is his spare change to hit up the late night Dollar Menu. Not that he's hurting for money after the 'Skins inked an unheard of 7 year, 100 million dollar contract with a man who never even seems to be in the physical condition of a professional football player.
     Two-a-days are upon the Redskins as they make their way through training camp under the guidance of new coach Mike Shanahan. After failing his physical test on more than one occasion, Haynesworth hasn't even made it onto the field.
     You have to ask yourself: how does an athlete worth 100 million dollars come to training camp completely unprepared and grossly out of shape? What was he doing in the off-season when his counterparts were slaving in the weight room and passing on filet mingon in exchange for grilled salmon?
     Haynesworth's complete lack of appreciation to the Redskins organization and dedication to the game of football is disheartening. What type of message does this send to his teammates when one of the faces of the franchise is treating the upcoming season like it's a game of Madden? Haynesworth should be acting as a clear cut leader on and off the field and that includes taking conditioning and strength training seriously.
     Fat Albert's battle of the bulge has been a huge distraction for the Redskins already and camp has just barely gotten underway. Instead of talking about their quest to have a winning season, Mike Shanahan and Co. are fielding questions about why their star player can't even pass a standard physical. This ladies and gentleman, is a selfish move by an overpaid player who the Redskins organization are likely kicking themselves for placing their bets on.