B.J. Daniels threw two touchdowns passes and ran for a third and South Florida finished coach Skip Holtz's first season with a 31-26 victory over Clemson in the Meineke Bowl.
Mo Plancher also ran for a score for the Bulls (now 8-5), who took control after Tigers quarterback Kyle Parker left at halftime with broken ribs in the second quarter. South Florida secured its fifth straight eight-win season and earned its first bowl win over a team from a BCS conference.
Backup Tajh Boyd was picked off by JaQuez Jenkins on the first play of the fourth quarter. His 48-yard return set up a Daniels' 8-yard TD run to make it 31-13 and gave the Tigers (now 6-7) their first losing season in 11 years
Dabo Swinney's future remains in question as we head into January...
Here's the wrap from our friends at WSPA-TV
Friday, December 31, 2010
TWTW Bowling: UCF Reinforces UGA's Mediocrity In Liberty Bowl
Latavius Murray scored on a 10-yard touchdown run with a little more than nine minutes left, and UCF beat Georgia 10-6 in the Liberty Bowl. The win gives the Knights the best season in school history and the program's first postseason victory.
The Knights (now 11-3) had never won more than 10 games in a season and had lost their first three bowl games, including their last visit to Memphis three years ago.
Georgia (now 6-7) snapped a four-game bowl winning streak with their first loss since the 2006 Sugar Bowl. They also have first losing season since going 5-6 in 1996.
Here's the last play, shot on someone's I-Phone with reaction from Orlando...
((HT: Youtube))
The Knights (now 11-3) had never won more than 10 games in a season and had lost their first three bowl games, including their last visit to Memphis three years ago.
Georgia (now 6-7) snapped a four-game bowl winning streak with their first loss since the 2006 Sugar Bowl. They also have first losing season since going 5-6 in 1996.
Here's the last play, shot on someone's I-Phone with reaction from Orlando...
((HT: Youtube))
TWTW Bowling: Catholics Overtake Convicts In Sun Bowl- 20 Years Later
Tommy Rees passed for 201 yards and two TD's- both to a very tall Michael Floyd- and Notre Dame beat Miami 33-17 in the Sun Bowl. Brian Kelly becomes the first Irish coach to win a bowl game in his first season at the helm.
Notre Dame (now 8-5) scored on three of its first four possessions. Rees tossed TD passes of 3 and 34 yards to Floyd. Cierre Wood scored on a 34-yard run. David Ruffer added field goals from 40, 50 and 19 yards.
The Hurricanes (now 7-6) trailed 30-3 going into the fourth and the game wasn't really THAT close... and Jacory Harris threw three first-half interceptions to reinforce the idea that he, probably, shouldn't have started- eventhough no one else was able to start at QB.
Here's your highlights...
((HT: CBS/Youtube))
Notre Dame (now 8-5) scored on three of its first four possessions. Rees tossed TD passes of 3 and 34 yards to Floyd. Cierre Wood scored on a 34-yard run. David Ruffer added field goals from 40, 50 and 19 yards.
The Hurricanes (now 7-6) trailed 30-3 going into the fourth and the game wasn't really THAT close... and Jacory Harris threw three first-half interceptions to reinforce the idea that he, probably, shouldn't have started- eventhough no one else was able to start at QB.
Here's your highlights...
((HT: CBS/Youtube))
Haywood Goes Haywire In South Bend...Allegedly...
((HT: KDKA-TV))
The former Notre Dame football player/offensive coordinator/head coach at Miami of Ohio was arrested on domestic violence charges Friday and booked into the St. Joseph County ((IN)) Jail, according to local police.
County police arrested Mike Haywood at a home he owns in South Bend after police received a 9-1-1 call from a woman with whom Haywood has a child. The woman said Haywood became angry when she tried to leave with their 21-month-old child, and he allegedly put the woman in a choke-hold, and then pushed her.
The circumstances around the reason for the woman's departure are unclear at present.
St. Joseph's County police officer Diana Landry noticed "red marks" on the woman's neck, back and arms, and she then arrested Haywood on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence battery.
Because this is a domestic violence case in the state of Indiana, Haywood is being held without bond in the county jail. He will spend his New Year's weekend there and will be arraigned before a judge Monday afternoon.
Haywood cooperated with police as he was being arrested, according to police reports.
Here's coverage from our friends at KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh...
Remember, Haywood was named head coach at Pitt back on the 16th.
The HQ thinks the university response will be interesting...
The former Notre Dame football player/offensive coordinator/head coach at Miami of Ohio was arrested on domestic violence charges Friday and booked into the St. Joseph County ((IN)) Jail, according to local police.
County police arrested Mike Haywood at a home he owns in South Bend after police received a 9-1-1 call from a woman with whom Haywood has a child. The woman said Haywood became angry when she tried to leave with their 21-month-old child, and he allegedly put the woman in a choke-hold, and then pushed her.
The circumstances around the reason for the woman's departure are unclear at present.
St. Joseph's County police officer Diana Landry noticed "red marks" on the woman's neck, back and arms, and she then arrested Haywood on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence battery.
Because this is a domestic violence case in the state of Indiana, Haywood is being held without bond in the county jail. He will spend his New Year's weekend there and will be arraigned before a judge Monday afternoon.
Haywood cooperated with police as he was being arrested, according to police reports.
Here's coverage from our friends at KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh...
Remember, Haywood was named head coach at Pitt back on the 16th.
The HQ thinks the university response will be interesting...
Fox Out In Carolina
The Carolina Panthers said today that the contracts of head coach John Fox and his staff would not be renewed after this season.
Fox has a 73-70 regular season record in his nine years in Charlotte and a 78-73 record overall.
“I told John today that I appreciate everything he has done for us over the last nine years, but as happens in this business, it is time for both sides to move in different directions,” said Owner/Founder Jerry Richardson. “While we haven’t accomplished all of the goals we set as an organization when we signed him in 2002, we have certainly had our share of high moments – the Super Bowl, two NFC Championship games, and a division title in 2008. We wish John and his family the best going forward.”
Here's that Roman Numeral Classic against the Patriots...
((HT: ESPN2/NFL/Youtube))
Fox ends his Carolina career when the Panthers close the regular season at Atlanta.
“I appreciate the opportunity Mr. Richardson gave me to be a head coach in the National Football League nine years ago and to be a part of this organization,” said Fox. “I have formed many close relationships and I have many great memories. I particularly want to thank the players for their efforts throughout the years. Working with so many great people has been a rewarding experience.”
Fox has a 73-70 regular season record in his nine years in Charlotte and a 78-73 record overall.
“I told John today that I appreciate everything he has done for us over the last nine years, but as happens in this business, it is time for both sides to move in different directions,” said Owner/Founder Jerry Richardson. “While we haven’t accomplished all of the goals we set as an organization when we signed him in 2002, we have certainly had our share of high moments – the Super Bowl, two NFC Championship games, and a division title in 2008. We wish John and his family the best going forward.”
Here's that Roman Numeral Classic against the Patriots...
((HT: ESPN2/NFL/Youtube))
Fox ends his Carolina career when the Panthers close the regular season at Atlanta.
“I appreciate the opportunity Mr. Richardson gave me to be a head coach in the National Football League nine years ago and to be a part of this organization,” said Fox. “I have formed many close relationships and I have many great memories. I particularly want to thank the players for their efforts throughout the years. Working with so many great people has been a rewarding experience.”
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Van Exel's Son Charged With Murder
((HT: MyFoxDFW))
The son of former Dallas Maverick Nick Van Exel is charged with murdering a man whose body was recently found at Lake Ray Hubbard in suburban Dallas.
Police arrested 21-year-old Nickey Maxell Van Exel for the shooting death of 23-year-old Bradley Eyo.
According to police departments in both the towns of Dallas and Garland, Van Exel killed Eyo at a home in Garland, and then dumped the body near Lake Hubbard.
Eyo was found dead on Sunday with a gunshot wound to his upper body.
Van Exel's attorney said his client told police he killed Eyo when a shotgun they were playing with accidently went off and later he "panicked" and moved the body.
Here's the coverage, thanks to our friends at Fox4/MyFoxDFW
Van Exel is charged with capital murder and was in jail on a $1 million bond.
The son of former Dallas Maverick Nick Van Exel is charged with murdering a man whose body was recently found at Lake Ray Hubbard in suburban Dallas.
Police arrested 21-year-old Nickey Maxell Van Exel for the shooting death of 23-year-old Bradley Eyo.
According to police departments in both the towns of Dallas and Garland, Van Exel killed Eyo at a home in Garland, and then dumped the body near Lake Hubbard.
Eyo was found dead on Sunday with a gunshot wound to his upper body.
Van Exel's attorney said his client told police he killed Eyo when a shotgun they were playing with accidently went off and later he "panicked" and moved the body.
Here's the coverage, thanks to our friends at Fox4/MyFoxDFW
Nickey Maxell Van Exel Charged with Murder: MyFoxDFW.com
Van Exel is charged with capital murder and was in jail on a $1 million bond.
TWTW Bowling: Les Miles Laughs At Butch Davis And Clock Management
Casey Barth kicked a 23-yard field goal in the second overtime to have North Carolina beat Tennessee 30-27 in a Music City Bowl that just had a goofy finish that would make any SEC game proud from this past season...
Barth kicked a 39-yard field goal at the end of regulation after officials reviewed what they thought had been the final play of the game and went ahead and penalized the Tar Heels ((who finished 8-5 on the year)) for having "more than 11 men" on the field. As the UNC offense was trying to clock the ball, the field goal unit was running on the field at the same time.
There were, definitely, more than 11 men on the field...
The Big Ten officiating crew also announced T.J. Yates had spiked the ball with 1 second left- after the review...
That allowed Barth to run out the field goal that tied it at 20.
Tennessee ((now 6-7)) got another opportunity to have defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. Tyler Bray threw a 25-yard TD in the first overtime, but Quan Sturdivant picked him off in the top of the second OT...
Here's the ending...
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
Barth kicked a 39-yard field goal at the end of regulation after officials reviewed what they thought had been the final play of the game and went ahead and penalized the Tar Heels ((who finished 8-5 on the year)) for having "more than 11 men" on the field. As the UNC offense was trying to clock the ball, the field goal unit was running on the field at the same time.
There were, definitely, more than 11 men on the field...
The Big Ten officiating crew also announced T.J. Yates had spiked the ball with 1 second left- after the review...
That allowed Barth to run out the field goal that tied it at 20.
Tennessee ((now 6-7)) got another opportunity to have defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. Tyler Bray threw a 25-yard TD in the first overtime, but Quan Sturdivant picked him off in the top of the second OT...
Here's the ending...
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
TWTW Bowling: "Excessive Celebration" Gives Syracuse Win
Adrian Hilburn caught a 30-yard touchdown with 1:13 remaining in the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. After crossing the goal line, Hilburn saluted the crowd. He was flagged for excessive celebration. The penalty pushed Kansas State's two-point conversion attempt back 15 yards- from the 3 to the 18-yard line.
The attempt failed and the Wildcats lost to Syracuse 36-34.
The Orangemen had 498 yards of total offense- Delone Carter had 202 yards rushing with two scores of that total...
Here's the, um, penalty...
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
"I didn't see it, I heard he just did a salute, which is kind of bogus," Kansas State quarterback Carson Coffman said. "It's something you can't do, we know that. Adrian is our guy, we're not mad at him for it, but I thought it was a little bit of a bogus call."
Yeah, that's one word to use...
The attempt failed and the Wildcats lost to Syracuse 36-34.
The Orangemen had 498 yards of total offense- Delone Carter had 202 yards rushing with two scores of that total...
Here's the, um, penalty...
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
"I didn't see it, I heard he just did a salute, which is kind of bogus," Kansas State quarterback Carson Coffman said. "It's something you can't do, we know that. Adrian is our guy, we're not mad at him for it, but I thought it was a little bit of a bogus call."
Yeah, that's one word to use...
BREAKING: UConn Streak Ends At 90
A basket by Stanford's Nnemkadi Ogwumike with a little over a minute to go gave the Cardinal a 63-55 lead at Maples Pavilion.
As a result, after made free throws, the Huskies 90-game NCAA win streak came to an end with a final score of 71-59.
Maya Moore had an uncharacteristic off-night with only 14 points- missing her only free throw on the evening.
Stanford head Coach Tara Vanderveer has now given the rest of the women's basketball world a blue print on how to take care of Geno Auriemma's team.
ESPN's Dave O'Brien called the run the "streak of a thousand days."
Auriemma said the atmosphere effected the team and they didn't play like themselves.
"They made big plays when they had to make them, and they took us out of our game completely," he said in his post-game interview. He also said he would appreciate the streak tomorrow before realizing what the streak meant for college basketball.
Vanderveer collects her 650th career win and evened her record at 6-6 against UConn. Stanford was also the last team to defeat UConn in an NCAA semi-final back in 2008- repeating the feat Notre Dame performed in knocking off UCLA in their 88-game streak on the men's side.
"We didn't play a perfect game, but I think we played really well," Vanderveer admitted. "It's December. We'll play better and they'll play better, too."
Jeanette Pohlen led Stanford with a career-high 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
"I think our team was really looking for me to get my shot. I'm just happy we got the win at Maples, and I'm just so proud of my team."
UConn shoots 33-percent from the floor on the night...
More when we know more...
As a result, after made free throws, the Huskies 90-game NCAA win streak came to an end with a final score of 71-59.
Maya Moore had an uncharacteristic off-night with only 14 points- missing her only free throw on the evening.
Stanford head Coach Tara Vanderveer has now given the rest of the women's basketball world a blue print on how to take care of Geno Auriemma's team.
ESPN's Dave O'Brien called the run the "streak of a thousand days."
Auriemma said the atmosphere effected the team and they didn't play like themselves.
"They made big plays when they had to make them, and they took us out of our game completely," he said in his post-game interview. He also said he would appreciate the streak tomorrow before realizing what the streak meant for college basketball.
Vanderveer collects her 650th career win and evened her record at 6-6 against UConn. Stanford was also the last team to defeat UConn in an NCAA semi-final back in 2008- repeating the feat Notre Dame performed in knocking off UCLA in their 88-game streak on the men's side.
"We didn't play a perfect game, but I think we played really well," Vanderveer admitted. "It's December. We'll play better and they'll play better, too."
Jeanette Pohlen led Stanford with a career-high 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
"I think our team was really looking for me to get my shot. I'm just happy we got the win at Maples, and I'm just so proud of my team."
UConn shoots 33-percent from the floor on the night...
More when we know more...
Tressel: Suspended Juniors will be back next year
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| Jim Tressel//Courtesy: midwestsportsfans.com |
According to Tressel, it was a condition of them getting to play in the Sugar Bowl game against Arkansas. He says each player pledged that they will not leave and turn pro. He also said "It wouldn't be fair if someone was able to participate" and then leave. Yeah. Sure.
Read more from Dispatch.com's Buckeye Extra RIGHT HERE
While this gesture would be applauded if it actually happens, we are (surprise) taking the cynical view here. We don't doubt that what coach Sweater Vest says isn't true. They probably did tell him that. But, what we question is that if faced with the possibility of losing NFL money and potentially draft position by staying in school for a 6 or 7 game season, the answer will always follow the money. We aren't saying they all will renege on the pledge, but they all won't honor it either.
We have found the outcry over what happened with these players somewhat laughable. From Sugar Bowl director Paul Hoolahan saying that "We asked Ohio State to allow these guys to play" to the NCAA coming out and saying "We don't play favorites, it's been interesting to watch unfold.
We aren't saying that anyone played favorites with Ohio State or that anyone played favorites. As for Hoolihan, we don't doubt him saying what he did, sober or not. It comes off sounding incredibly self-serving on his and the Sugar Bowls part, but that shouldn't surprise anyone.
We'll be very interested in following this story as it continues.
Here's video of Tressel and his Buckeye's arriving in New Orleans. Thanks WBNS-TV:
BREAKING: Maryland Plans To Offer Malzahn Job
 |
| Gus Malzahn/Courtesy: uspresswire-file |
Several sources close to the program indicate that Malzahn is the schools choice, though an official announcement hasn't been made. If he takes it, that announcement will be shortly thereafter. We thought Malzahn was set to take the Vanderbilt job just a couple of weeks ago, so him getting offered the job and accepting it may be two different things.
Obviously, Maryland would be a step above what Vanderbilt would have been and if Malzahn can be successful in College Park, he can be successful anywhere. We are all familiar with his success as an offensive coordinator and that made him one of the "Hot" coaching candidates on this years coaching carousel.
Maryland AD Kevin Anderson had been looking to make a "Splash" hire, and Malzahn would certainly fit that bill. We had speculated and thought Mike Leach would be his guy due to their previous associations, but he wouldn't quite be the "Splash" hire that Malzahn would.
Sure, we know Gus just got a big renewal deal at Auburn, but as we all know, in College Football deals like that don't mean much. We suspect if he is going to take the job, which we think he will, Auburn will not stand in his way.
When we find out about when the official announcement will be, we will be sure to let you know.
Hmmm...Taylor Martinez's dad can sell Nebraska T-Shirts....
 |
| A Corn Fed T-shirt/Courtesy: cornfed.com |
In this day of College football players getting in trouble for selling things with their likenesses or game jersey's...or anything else to raise some spending money...comes this.
According to the LA Times, the father of Nebraska Quarterback Taylor Martinez has a licensing agreement with the school....to sell T-Shirts. And strangely, Taylor's dad, Casey...got the contract about a year before Taylor "agreed" to come to Nebraska.
And, we might add, Nebraska is apparently one of 4...well, now 3 deals that Casey had to hawk his shirts.
The company is called Corn Fed. You can check them out RIGHT HERE
According to the story, Casey Martinez, may want to find a new business, Nebraska says that they've gotten around $500 dollars in royalties in 3-years from sales.
Read the whole story from the LATimes and Baxter Holmes RIGHT HERE
While technically this doesn't violate any NCAA rules, it sure looks a bit funny. Especially in light of the various stories of athletes selling gear to raise money these days. Never mind the timing with Martinez's arrival in Lincoln. Nobody is accusing Nebraska...or the Martinez family of anything illegal or against the rules, it just looks odd.
For his part, it seems Taylor Martinez and Nebraska might not be a great working arrangement. Martinez has been shaky the past few games and seems to have exhibited a very thin skin when it comes to dealing with his hard line coach, Bo Pelini. We'll see what is in Taylor's future, we are guessing very, very soon.
It's not spectacular, quality video, because it's off a TV, but here is why Martinez and Pelini seem to be at odds:
Citrus Bowl wants their stadium fixed
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| Florida Citrus Bowl/Courtesy: orlandovenues.net |
The stadium. Well, it's old. It's always been old. It's always looked old. It's essentially an old aluminum style seating stadium that kept getting expanded over the years.
Flash forward to these days. The aging Citrus Bowl is getting ready to host its annual Bowl game. People in the Orlando area consider it the "Best Bowl trip in America". And while there are certainly a lot of things for a tourist to do in the area. (It's Disney World...duh!). The game itself, isn't particularly exciting.
Alabama and Michigan State. A decent game. Certainly two teams that expected to be in a better bowl game. And in a better stadium.
Now, according to the people who run the game, Florida Citrus Sports, the city is in danger of losing one or both of its bowl games (The Champs Sports Bowl is the other). And Orlando is supposedly saying they "May" consider renovating the stadium. Apparently, those repairs have been promised, promised for a long time.
Read the text version of the story from myfoxorlando.com RIGHT HERE
While we don't discount the thought that Orlando needs to take a long look at their stadium, we don't think patching it up will make much of a difference. Really, the primary draw of bowl games is the payout. As long as they keep the title sponsor for the games, they will probably be fine. In the story, Citrus Sports excutive Steve Hogan says that other city's have upgraded stadiums and that will hurt Orlando. One thing he doesn't mention....all the city's he mentions...have NFL teams and....new stadiums.
Orlando would be stupid to build a new stadium. The city in no way, shape or form would or will be an NFL city. Why would a politician in a climate where city's are hemorraging money, be willing to devote hundreds of millions of dollars to a new or heavily renovated stadium.
Here is the TV story on this, again from MyFoxOrlando.com:
Illinois actually wins Texas Bowl...Yeah, there is such a game
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| QB Nathan Scheelhaase and RB Mikel Leshoure/Courtesy: Darrell Homeann-illinihq.com |
Sure, it's a great capper to a rebound season for Illinois, from 3-9 in 2009 to a 7-6 record this season is a nice comeback and the Zooker and his Illini do have reason to be proud of that. That 7th win came Wednesday night when they pounded Baylor, 38-14 in the Texas Bowl.
Your MVP, Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure, who ran for 184 yards and scored 3 times.
More on the game from Illinihq.com RIGHT HERE
If you actually stayed up Wednesday night and watched this game, good for you. You are either a hardcore, football alum from one of these schools or a crazed football addict with nothing better to do. We aren't trying to be haters, but think about it.
Anyway, yeah, sorry we are being grouchy about this, but we...or at least I don't think there should be 836 Bowl games every year. Sorry, I just don't. But hey, if it makes you happy, then great, congrats on a good win Illinois and as for Baylor...we thought you were better than that.
Here's your look at the game, thanks to our friends at the Big Ten Network...
((HT: BTN/Youtube))
Okie State takes care of business in Alamo Bowl
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| Justin Blackmon scores easily/Courtesy: Nate Billings, The Oklahoman |
The Cowboys rolled the Wildcats 36-10 in front of a few odd fans in the Alamo Dome. Those who went to the game, got to see Justin Blackmon put on a show. This years Biletnikoff Award winner caught 9 passes for 117 yards and 2 TD's. As for the 'Cats, they started the year 7-1 and ended 7-6, which is never a good sign.
Your game update from NewsOK.com is RIGHT HERE
Okie State loses their offensive coordinator as of...well, today. Dana Horgelson will be heading to West Virginia and baby sit for a year before taking over for lame duck Bill Stewart. As for Arizona, if Nick Foles sticks around, they'll be decent, but as we've said over and over about the PAC 10/12, they don't necessarily matchup really well with anyone outside their conference.
Your postgame from KJRH-TV in Tulsa:
Leach To Interview At Maryland
[HT: Baltimore Sun]Time for a shameless plug. If your a passionate Maryland Terrapin fan then Jeff Barker's blog in the Baltimore Sun is assignment reading. Barker's latest blog says that former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach is interviewing as soon as today for the Maryland job.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/college/maryland_terps/blog/2010/12/notes_on_friedgen_leach_and_the_coaching_search.html
Leach was the only name confirmed that was o
n the list of candidates of Maryland athletic director Kevin Anderson. Anderson revealed that card in the press conference announcing the firing of Ralph Friedgen.The Baltimore Sun is reporting that Leach was on the College Park campus on Sunday.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/terps/bs-sp-maryland-coach-search-20101229,0,6906670.story
It is OSG's opinion that Leach originally was the guy all along Anderson wanted however Gus Malzahn is gaining momentum as well. ESPN.com reported that Malzahn interviewed for the position last Wednesday and an announcement could be within 48 hours.
As long as Malzahn is in the mix his stock will rise. Malzahn is young, has a highly successful offensive system and would have an impact with all that young talent in the Terps staple. Malzahn would be a breakout star in the ACC.
Photos Courtesy: AP
Terps Win One For "The Fridge"
It doesn't matter what side of the fence your on concerning the firing of Maryland head coach Ralph Friedgen but if your a Terrapin supporter it must have been great to see the Terps put a whoppin' on East Carolina in the Military Bowl.
Maryland crushed the Pirates 51-20.
CSN Washington's Chick Hernandez filed this report from RFK Stadium.
After the game outgoing coach Ralph Friedgen gives some insight on what the new coach can expect. (Thanks Baltimore Sun.com)
Finally Friedgen talks about the support he received from the Terrapin fans. (Thanks Baltimore Sun.com)
After the game Maryland wide receiver Torrey Smith told CSN Washington's Chick Hernandez that he's going pro.
I've known Ralph Friedgen for six years and he is gruff but always gave you what you were seeking and gave you his time. There's no doubt he loves his players and the feeling is mutual. If Friedgen wants to coach again he will, he still has young lives to touch.
Maryland crushed the Pirates 51-20.
CSN Washington's Chick Hernandez filed this report from RFK Stadium.
After the game outgoing coach Ralph Friedgen gives some insight on what the new coach can expect. (Thanks Baltimore Sun.com)
Finally Friedgen talks about the support he received from the Terrapin fans. (Thanks Baltimore Sun.com)
After the game Maryland wide receiver Torrey Smith told CSN Washington's Chick Hernandez that he's going pro.
I've known Ralph Friedgen for six years and he is gruff but always gave you what you were seeking and gave you his time. There's no doubt he loves his players and the feeling is mutual. If Friedgen wants to coach again he will, he still has young lives to touch.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
BREAKING: Favre Fined For "Lack Of Cooperation"
((HT: Star-Tribune/Zulgad))
50-grand...
The league produced a statement saying the following:
Commissioner Goodell could not conclude that Favre violated league policies relating to workplace conduct. The forensic analysis could not establish that Favre sent the objectionable photographs to Sterger. The review found no evidence to contradict the statements of both Favre and Sterger that they never met in person, nor was there anything to suggest that Sterger engaged in any inappropriate conduct.
Had the league found anything, Favre would have faced stiffer discipline from the league. The league was also not happy over Favre's lack of candor in the matter.
More when we know more...
The HQ is now going to take a shower...
50-grand...
The league produced a statement saying the following:
Commissioner Goodell could not conclude that Favre violated league policies relating to workplace conduct. The forensic analysis could not establish that Favre sent the objectionable photographs to Sterger. The review found no evidence to contradict the statements of both Favre and Sterger that they never met in person, nor was there anything to suggest that Sterger engaged in any inappropriate conduct.
Had the league found anything, Favre would have faced stiffer discipline from the league. The league was also not happy over Favre's lack of candor in the matter.
More when we know more...
The HQ is now going to take a shower...
Tucker Carlson Is A Tool...
((HT: FNN/Mediaite/Youtube))
All the HQ can say is that Tucker Carlson is an idiot...
That's all...
Here's why...
Ben Crenshaw...???
Really...???
All the HQ can say is that Tucker Carlson is an idiot...
That's all...
Here's why...
Ben Crenshaw...???
Really...???
Kassian Gets 2 Game Suspension At World Juniors
((HT: TSN))
Canada forward Zack Kassian has been suspended for two games after getting a match penalty on Tuesday against the Czech Republic in the World Junior Tournament.
Kassian gets an automatic one-game ban after being assessed the match penalty for a hit to the head and neck of Czech defenseman Petr Senkerik.
Here's that hit...
((HT: TSN/WJHC/Hockeystreams))
Tournament judge Dan Marouelli ((yes, that Dan Marouelli)) added the additional game suspension on Wednesday morning.
Kassian will miss Canada's games tonight against Norway and Friday against Sweden. He will be eligible to return for the medal round games on the weekend.
Canada forward Zack Kassian has been suspended for two games after getting a match penalty on Tuesday against the Czech Republic in the World Junior Tournament.
Kassian gets an automatic one-game ban after being assessed the match penalty for a hit to the head and neck of Czech defenseman Petr Senkerik.
Here's that hit...
((HT: TSN/WJHC/Hockeystreams))
Tournament judge Dan Marouelli ((yes, that Dan Marouelli)) added the additional game suspension on Wednesday morning.
Kassian will miss Canada's games tonight against Norway and Friday against Sweden. He will be eligible to return for the medal round games on the weekend.
Who Wants The Maryland Job?
It appears their were three candidates for the University of Maryland head coaching job and all with innovative offenses.
First it appears SMU head coach June Jones was interviewed for the gig. The Dallas Morning News reporter that such conversation took place but according to Jones' agent Leigh Steinberg he has removed himself from consideration.
http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/12/smus-jones-removes-himself-from-maryland.html
Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn appears to be in Maryland's crosshairs. Tuesday Auburn head coach Gene Chizik said he is not aware of any contact between Malzahn and Maryland.
(Thanks AlabamaLive.com)
Malzahn should be on Maryland athletic director Kevin Anderson's list and should get strong consideration.
Mike Leach's name has been the most prominant connection to Maryland even before Ralph Friedgen's firing was official. During the news conference announcing the coaching change Anderson admitted publically that Leach was on the list.
Maryland definately wants to make a big splash on the college football scene with this hire. Going after coaches with proven and high powered offensive systems is what the powers that be at Maryland want.
We will keep you posted.
First it appears SMU head coach June Jones was interviewed for the gig. The Dallas Morning News reporter that such conversation took place but according to Jones' agent Leigh Steinberg he has removed himself from consideration.
http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/12/smus-jones-removes-himself-from-maryland.html
Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn appears to be in Maryland's crosshairs. Tuesday Auburn head coach Gene Chizik said he is not aware of any contact between Malzahn and Maryland.
(Thanks AlabamaLive.com)
Malzahn should be on Maryland athletic director Kevin Anderson's list and should get strong consideration.
Mike Leach's name has been the most prominant connection to Maryland even before Ralph Friedgen's firing was official. During the news conference announcing the coaching change Anderson admitted publically that Leach was on the list.
Maryland definately wants to make a big splash on the college football scene with this hire. Going after coaches with proven and high powered offensive systems is what the powers that be at Maryland want.
We will keep you posted.
Hawkeyes Outduel Mizzou In The Desert. Iowa Wins Insight Bowl
Replay was not the Mizzou Tigers friend in Tempe, AZ
Tiger quarterback Blaine Gabbert completed a 4th down pass to T.J. Moe to keep the Mizzou drive alive however after further review it was overturned. Watch below and you be the judge.
(Thanks ESPN/Youtube.com)
That play secured Iowa's 27-24 Insight Bowl win over Mizzou, the Hawkeyes third straight bowl win, a school record.
More from our friends at KCRG-TV Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Iowa's Marcus Coker was awesome running for 219 yards on 33 carries and named Offenisvie Player of the Game and Coker is just a freshman. Like any good running back Coker thanked the big guys on the offensive line.
"I already knew before the game that the O line was going to do a great job." Coker said after the game. "I was pretty comfortable after the first couple plays. I felt like I was a little bit more comfortable than I was before that."
"We are really proud of what Marcus did tonight and it was a big part of the win." Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz said."We felt like we needed him to run the ball for us to have a chance in this one."
Tiger quarterback Blaine Gabbert completed a 4th down pass to T.J. Moe to keep the Mizzou drive alive however after further review it was overturned. Watch below and you be the judge.
(Thanks ESPN/Youtube.com)
That play secured Iowa's 27-24 Insight Bowl win over Mizzou, the Hawkeyes third straight bowl win, a school record.
More from our friends at KCRG-TV Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Iowa's Marcus Coker was awesome running for 219 yards on 33 carries and named Offenisvie Player of the Game and Coker is just a freshman. Like any good running back Coker thanked the big guys on the offensive line.
"I already knew before the game that the O line was going to do a great job." Coker said after the game. "I was pretty comfortable after the first couple plays. I felt like I was a little bit more comfortable than I was before that."
"We are really proud of what Marcus did tonight and it was a big part of the win." Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz said."We felt like we needed him to run the ball for us to have a chance in this one."
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
TWTW Bowling: NC State Is Champs Over WBGV
((HT: WRALSportsfan.com))
There are just those bowl games where it's easy to see that one team wanted to be there, and the other really would have liked to be someplace else- any place else other than where they were on that night.
Kinda like WBGV in Orlando playing against NC State...
The Wolfpack wanted to be there, and the Mountaineers surely didn't look like they were the least bit interested.
Russell Wilson threw for 275 yards in a 23-7 win for NC State, and now his future is in question- whether its baseball or returning for one more year of football.
"I've been blessed to have the opportunity to play football and baseball my whole life," Wilson said. "If it happens in the future that I can still do that, or if it doesn't, whatever, but I know that playing for Coach (Tom) O'Brien and playing for N.C. State — whether I do come back or not — has been a great opportunity and a great blessing.
"I'm very passionate about N.C. State and N.C. State football, and I will always be."
Here's Nate Irving, who came back from a really bad car accident to make an impact for Tom O'Brien in 2010, talking about the win...
There are just those bowl games where it's easy to see that one team wanted to be there, and the other really would have liked to be someplace else- any place else other than where they were on that night.
Kinda like WBGV in Orlando playing against NC State...
The Wolfpack wanted to be there, and the Mountaineers surely didn't look like they were the least bit interested.
Russell Wilson threw for 275 yards in a 23-7 win for NC State, and now his future is in question- whether its baseball or returning for one more year of football.
"I've been blessed to have the opportunity to play football and baseball my whole life," Wilson said. "If it happens in the future that I can still do that, or if it doesn't, whatever, but I know that playing for Coach (Tom) O'Brien and playing for N.C. State — whether I do come back or not — has been a great opportunity and a great blessing.
"I'm very passionate about N.C. State and N.C. State football, and I will always be."
Here's Nate Irving, who came back from a really bad car accident to make an impact for Tom O'Brien in 2010, talking about the win...
TOSU Players Apologize Publicly, Sugar Bowl CEO Didn't Want Suspensions
((HT: WBNS-TV Columbus))
The five Ohio State football players who were suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season came public today.
DeVier Posey was the only player of the five who announced that he would return for his senior season in 2011. The others didn't go there...
Posey, quarterback Terrelle Pryor, tailback Daniel "Boom" Herron, offensive lineman Mike Adams and defensive tackle Solomon Thomas were suspended because they received improper benefits for selling awards, gifts and university apparel- stuff they thought was theirs in the first place...
But ask Georgia wideout AJ Green about that whole idea...
All of the players are eligible to play in the Sugar Bowl against Arkansas on January 4th since the NCAA considers the game an exhibition.
A sixth player, Jordan Whiting, must sit out the first game of the 2011 season and pay back $150 for receiving discounted services. He did not attend Tuesday's presser, and no questions were taken by any other of the players on the dais.
Pryor has to repay $2,500 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring, a 2009 Fiesta Bowl sportsmanship award and his 2008 Gold Pants, a gift from the university the team receives for defeating Michigan.
Herron has to repay $1,150 for selling his football jersey, pants and shoes for $1,000 and receiving discounted services worth $150.
Thomas has to repay $1,505 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring for $1,000, his 2008 Gold Pants for $350 and receiving discounted services worth $155.
Adams sold his 2008 Big Ten championship ring and has to repay $1,000.
Posey must repay $1,250 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring for $1,200 and receiving discounted services worth $50.
Those "discounted services" are the artwork on all of their arms and various other body parts- which look quite artsy, by the way...
Here's some of the press conference-slash-parade...
The HQ thinks The Sweater might want to reconsider the idea of having these five guys play against Arkansas...
Jus' sayin'...
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: Interesting angle out of Columbus Wednesday from Ken Gordon's article in the Dispatch...
From Gordon, quoting Sugar Bowl CEO Pete Hoolahan:
"I made the point that anything that could be done to preserve the integrity of this year's game, we would greatly appreciate it," Hoolahan said. "That appeal did not fall on deaf ears, and I'm extremely excited about it, that the Buckeyes are coming in at full strength and with no dilution."
Admittedly, his game has had a couple of dogs recently ((or is it Dawgs...???)) with the Hawaii-UGA game and the Cincy-Florida de-baw-cull...
"I appreciate and fully understand the Midwestern values and ethics behind that," Hoolahan said. "But I'm probably thinking of this from a selfish perspective."
Yeah...??? Really...???
Hoolahan didn't want any suspensions, and apparently, isn't get any suspensions...
The HQ still thinks Arkansas will run them out of the building...
The five Ohio State football players who were suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season came public today.
DeVier Posey was the only player of the five who announced that he would return for his senior season in 2011. The others didn't go there...
Posey, quarterback Terrelle Pryor, tailback Daniel "Boom" Herron, offensive lineman Mike Adams and defensive tackle Solomon Thomas were suspended because they received improper benefits for selling awards, gifts and university apparel- stuff they thought was theirs in the first place...
But ask Georgia wideout AJ Green about that whole idea...
All of the players are eligible to play in the Sugar Bowl against Arkansas on January 4th since the NCAA considers the game an exhibition.
A sixth player, Jordan Whiting, must sit out the first game of the 2011 season and pay back $150 for receiving discounted services. He did not attend Tuesday's presser, and no questions were taken by any other of the players on the dais.
Pryor has to repay $2,500 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring, a 2009 Fiesta Bowl sportsmanship award and his 2008 Gold Pants, a gift from the university the team receives for defeating Michigan.
Herron has to repay $1,150 for selling his football jersey, pants and shoes for $1,000 and receiving discounted services worth $150.
Thomas has to repay $1,505 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring for $1,000, his 2008 Gold Pants for $350 and receiving discounted services worth $155.
Adams sold his 2008 Big Ten championship ring and has to repay $1,000.
Posey must repay $1,250 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring for $1,200 and receiving discounted services worth $50.
Those "discounted services" are the artwork on all of their arms and various other body parts- which look quite artsy, by the way...
Here's some of the press conference-slash-parade...
The HQ thinks The Sweater might want to reconsider the idea of having these five guys play against Arkansas...
Jus' sayin'...
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: Interesting angle out of Columbus Wednesday from Ken Gordon's article in the Dispatch...
From Gordon, quoting Sugar Bowl CEO Pete Hoolahan:
"I made the point that anything that could be done to preserve the integrity of this year's game, we would greatly appreciate it," Hoolahan said. "That appeal did not fall on deaf ears, and I'm extremely excited about it, that the Buckeyes are coming in at full strength and with no dilution."
Admittedly, his game has had a couple of dogs recently ((or is it Dawgs...???)) with the Hawaii-UGA game and the Cincy-Florida de-baw-cull...
"I appreciate and fully understand the Midwestern values and ethics behind that," Hoolahan said. "But I'm probably thinking of this from a selfish perspective."
Yeah...??? Really...???
Hoolahan didn't want any suspensions, and apparently, isn't get any suspensions...
The HQ still thinks Arkansas will run them out of the building...
Sabres Sale Update: Think Next Week
((HT: WGR-AM 550 Buffalo))
Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News is reporting in his columnthat his NHL sources confirm that Terry Pegula has signed a letter of intent to purchase the Buffalo Sabres.
The news came out last month, but that idea was denied and otherwise poo-pooed by minority owner Larry Quinn. Gleason's sources allow that there has been a letter signed with a price tag of $175 million.
Gleason speculates the sale could be finalized in as soon as six weeks.
BUT... and we put that conjunction with caps on purpose...
WGRZ-TV's Scott Brown reports that the sale is expected to be announced some time after the World Juniors come to a close next week. Brown reports the timing of the sale is being determined by current majority owner Tom Golisano.
Golisano just doesn't want the fireworks and prestige of the tournament placed on a back burner by his news...
Here's Scott's update, thanks to our friends at WGRZ-TV in Buffalo...
Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News is reporting in his columnthat his NHL sources confirm that Terry Pegula has signed a letter of intent to purchase the Buffalo Sabres.
The news came out last month, but that idea was denied and otherwise poo-pooed by minority owner Larry Quinn. Gleason's sources allow that there has been a letter signed with a price tag of $175 million.
Gleason speculates the sale could be finalized in as soon as six weeks.
BUT... and we put that conjunction with caps on purpose...
WGRZ-TV's Scott Brown reports that the sale is expected to be announced some time after the World Juniors come to a close next week. Brown reports the timing of the sale is being determined by current majority owner Tom Golisano.
Golisano just doesn't want the fireworks and prestige of the tournament placed on a back burner by his news...
Here's Scott's update, thanks to our friends at WGRZ-TV in Buffalo...
Air Force Falcon Deserts Batallion In Shreveport
No, not an actual soldier-type, but the bird they use as a flyover at the start of games...
TBH has seen Auburn's eagles do it on a regular basis... and to her knowledge none of the birds have gone off on their own to explore away from all the humans...
Last night, at the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, the Air Force falcon was kinda over the whole bowl experience and headed for the boardwalk...
Here's David Lloyd and Cindy Brunson describing the anarchy...
((HT: ESPN))
TBH has seen Auburn's eagles do it on a regular basis... and to her knowledge none of the birds have gone off on their own to explore away from all the humans...
Last night, at the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, the Air Force falcon was kinda over the whole bowl experience and headed for the boardwalk...
Here's David Lloyd and Cindy Brunson describing the anarchy...
((HT: ESPN))
BREAKING: Sutter Steps Down In Calgary
((HT: FAN590/Toronto))
Calgary Flames Executive VP and General Manager Darryl Sutter has stepped down from his role with the team. Assistant GM Jay Feaster will take over on an interim basis.
The Flames are struggling along with a 16-18-3 record and sit 14th in the Western Conference as of this very minute.
"Darryl has performed valuable service to the Calgary Flames organization for 8 years," said Flames President & CEO Ken King in a statement. "He was the leader that ignited a renaissance of Flames hockey, moving us from a non-playoff team to an organization that was viewed as a respected and popular contender each year. We thank Darryl for his leadership and his important contributions to re-establishing the Calgary Flames as a model franchise. As we enter the next phase of our growth in the NHL, we are restructuring our leadership and processes. We are pleased that Darryl has agreed to assist in an orderly transition and will provide his valuable guidance in the process. He remains dedicated to the success of the team he worked so hard to build."
More when we know more...
Calgary Flames Executive VP and General Manager Darryl Sutter has stepped down from his role with the team. Assistant GM Jay Feaster will take over on an interim basis.
The Flames are struggling along with a 16-18-3 record and sit 14th in the Western Conference as of this very minute.
"Darryl has performed valuable service to the Calgary Flames organization for 8 years," said Flames President & CEO Ken King in a statement. "He was the leader that ignited a renaissance of Flames hockey, moving us from a non-playoff team to an organization that was viewed as a respected and popular contender each year. We thank Darryl for his leadership and his important contributions to re-establishing the Calgary Flames as a model franchise. As we enter the next phase of our growth in the NHL, we are restructuring our leadership and processes. We are pleased that Darryl has agreed to assist in an orderly transition and will provide his valuable guidance in the process. He remains dedicated to the success of the team he worked so hard to build."
More when we know more...
Emotional Friedgen Speaks
The Holiday's have been hell for Maryland head coach Ralph Friedgen. It would be for anyone who loses the job they love and whose been successful.
Back in 2001 Ralph Friedgen put the paddles to the Maryland football program and revived it back from the dead. Then with the exception of last year's two win monstosity kept the Terps winning consistantly.
You know the rest of the story, new University president and athletic director comes in and changes happen.
Friedgen coaches his last game Wednesday against East Carolina in the Military Bowl in Washington, D.C. He spoke to the media for the first time since the firing Monday.
(Thanks Baltimore Sun)
Back in 2001 Ralph Friedgen put the paddles to the Maryland football program and revived it back from the dead. Then with the exception of last year's two win monstosity kept the Terps winning consistantly.
You know the rest of the story, new University president and athletic director comes in and changes happen.
Friedgen coaches his last game Wednesday against East Carolina in the Military Bowl in Washington, D.C. He spoke to the media for the first time since the firing Monday.
(Thanks Baltimore Sun)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Governor Rendell Thinks We're A "Nation Of Wusses"
((HT: MyFoxPhilly))
It's not every day a standing governor calls us out as a nation for NOT having a football game...
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell went off on the decision to push the Eagles-Vikings game to Tuesday- the first Tuesday game in the NFL since 1946...
Rendell invokes Vince Lombardi and every emotion known to sports fans around the world... we should all be ashamed that NBC wanted their paid-for "Football Night In America" contest...
Um...
Uncontested...
Enjoy...
It's not every day a standing governor calls us out as a nation for NOT having a football game...
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell went off on the decision to push the Eagles-Vikings game to Tuesday- the first Tuesday game in the NFL since 1946...
Rendell invokes Vince Lombardi and every emotion known to sports fans around the world... we should all be ashamed that NBC wanted their paid-for "Football Night In America" contest...
Um...
Uncontested...
Enjoy...
TWTW Bowling: Freedom and Service Beat Georgia Tech
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
The HQ will admit that the red, white, and blue outfits of the Air Force were downright cool in their game against Georgia Tech in Shreveport.
What was even better was the player names were swapped out for the words "service" and "freedom." One word was on all of the odd-numbered jerseys and the other was on the even-numbered ones. We really can't remember which was which to go with the stars and stripes lightning bolt on the helmets.
If you meant to watch the game on TV, you almost missed it...
The first half went in 75 minutes up until the last three minutes of the half, and the second half was just as fast- which was what we figured with these offense being what they are...
If you, as a sponsor, wanted this game- it was a bad idea. There were very few stoppages that could create extra ad space...
Oh, the game was a 14-7 win for the Air Force...
Here's the last two minutes of regulation... from someone's television...
And the fact that the Air Force starting QB and two other offensive starters were from HQ territory was not wasted on the folks, either...
Woodward Academy, Peachtree Ridge, and Buford... represent...
The HQ will admit that the red, white, and blue outfits of the Air Force were downright cool in their game against Georgia Tech in Shreveport.
What was even better was the player names were swapped out for the words "service" and "freedom." One word was on all of the odd-numbered jerseys and the other was on the even-numbered ones. We really can't remember which was which to go with the stars and stripes lightning bolt on the helmets.
If you meant to watch the game on TV, you almost missed it...
The first half went in 75 minutes up until the last three minutes of the half, and the second half was just as fast- which was what we figured with these offense being what they are...
If you, as a sponsor, wanted this game- it was a bad idea. There were very few stoppages that could create extra ad space...
Oh, the game was a 14-7 win for the Air Force...
Here's the last two minutes of regulation... from someone's television...
And the fact that the Air Force starting QB and two other offensive starters were from HQ territory was not wasted on the folks, either...
Woodward Academy, Peachtree Ridge, and Buford... represent...
Garrett Wittels Up On Rape Charges
Garrett Wittels, the FIU baseball player, with a record-setting 56-game hitting streak ((and, in theory, counting)) has been charged with rape in the Bahamas.
Wittels is accused of raping a 17-year-old teenage tourist on December 20th while two of Wittels' friends also face rape charges, officials said.
Robert Rothschild, 21, of New York, was accused of raping two 17-year-old girls. Jonathan Oberti, 21, also of New York, was charged with raping one.
Chief Magistrate Roger Gomez granted Wittels and the two others $10,000 bail at their Thursday arraignment in Nassau. The U.S. suspects were not required to enter pleas and returned to the country.
Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis will begin a preliminary inquiry on April 18th to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial.
Wittels' father, an orthopedist, told The Miami Herald that his son would be vindicated. He said his son was "devastated" by the allegations.
From the Herald:
"Anyone can accuse anyone of anything at any time," Michael Wittels told the Miami newspaper during a Monday morning phone interview. "He's not doing well, obviously. He's blown away. He's devastated that someone would accuse him of this."
In the Bahamas, the maximum penalty for a first-time rape offender is seven years.
Bahamian attorney Wayne Munroe, who is representing the U.S. suspects, did not immediately return calls Monday.
The Herald article also quotes "sources close to the investigation" ((read: probably the legal counsel)) that DNA samples were taken from all the suspects and that surveillance video from the Atlantis Hotel and Casino shows the women who brought the charges appearing to have consumed alcohol.
``The next morning, they found out who [Wittels] was, and that was the road they took,'' Michael Wittels said. ``He hasn't been found guilty of anything. I hope [the media] doesn't hang him for merely an allegation. That's all this is.''
We'll see...
Here's a little mini-doc FIU put together on Wittels and his streak...
((HT: FIU))
Wittels is accused of raping a 17-year-old teenage tourist on December 20th while two of Wittels' friends also face rape charges, officials said.
Robert Rothschild, 21, of New York, was accused of raping two 17-year-old girls. Jonathan Oberti, 21, also of New York, was charged with raping one.
Chief Magistrate Roger Gomez granted Wittels and the two others $10,000 bail at their Thursday arraignment in Nassau. The U.S. suspects were not required to enter pleas and returned to the country.
Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis will begin a preliminary inquiry on April 18th to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial.
Wittels' father, an orthopedist, told The Miami Herald that his son would be vindicated. He said his son was "devastated" by the allegations.
From the Herald:
"Anyone can accuse anyone of anything at any time," Michael Wittels told the Miami newspaper during a Monday morning phone interview. "He's not doing well, obviously. He's blown away. He's devastated that someone would accuse him of this."
In the Bahamas, the maximum penalty for a first-time rape offender is seven years.
Bahamian attorney Wayne Munroe, who is representing the U.S. suspects, did not immediately return calls Monday.
The Herald article also quotes "sources close to the investigation" ((read: probably the legal counsel)) that DNA samples were taken from all the suspects and that surveillance video from the Atlantis Hotel and Casino shows the women who brought the charges appearing to have consumed alcohol.
``The next morning, they found out who [Wittels] was, and that was the road they took,'' Michael Wittels said. ``He hasn't been found guilty of anything. I hope [the media] doesn't hang him for merely an allegation. That's all this is.''
We'll see...
Here's a little mini-doc FIU put together on Wittels and his streak...
((HT: FIU))
Jeff Hardy Pleading Guilty
((HT: Charlotte Observer))
Jeff Hardy, who was arrested last year on drug charges, plans to plead guilty in court next month, according to the Moore County ((NC)) district attorney.
Moore County deputies raided Hardy's home in September of 2009 after Fayetteville police received a tip about drug use inside the house.
Lawmen found 262 doses of Vicodin, 180 Soma prescription pills, 55 milliliters of anabolic steroids, a residual amount of powder cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
No word on the sentences Hardy will face and what the possible sentencing could be once he enters his plea in open court.
Hardy, 33, is the current world champion of TNA.
Here's highlights of Hardy and Raven from TNA Lockdown in 2005
((HT: TNAWrestling))
Jeff Hardy, who was arrested last year on drug charges, plans to plead guilty in court next month, according to the Moore County ((NC)) district attorney.
Moore County deputies raided Hardy's home in September of 2009 after Fayetteville police received a tip about drug use inside the house.
Lawmen found 262 doses of Vicodin, 180 Soma prescription pills, 55 milliliters of anabolic steroids, a residual amount of powder cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
No word on the sentences Hardy will face and what the possible sentencing could be once he enters his plea in open court.
Hardy, 33, is the current world champion of TNA.
Here's highlights of Hardy and Raven from TNA Lockdown in 2005
((HT: TNAWrestling))
TWTW Bowling: FIU Gets First Bowl Win Over Toledo
((HT: ESPN/Youtube))
If you went to sleep, you missed a good ending...
FIU trailed Toledo 24-7 at one point in the game in Detroit, only to come back to lead 31-24, only to trail 32-31 with 75 seconds left.
Toledo's kickoff, and the return they gave up, gave the Golden Panthers decent field position. But FIU had to convert a 4th-and-17 with a hook-and-lateral to set up the following...
Here's your game winner...
"What these men have achieved is historical," said FIU coach Mario Cristobal. "They've set the bar high for the guys who will come later."
The HQ covered tailback Darriet Perry from his time at Lowndes ((GA)) High, and were quite pleased with his efforts last night...
Here's some postgame, thanks to our friends at FIU their ownselves...
If you went to sleep, you missed a good ending...
FIU trailed Toledo 24-7 at one point in the game in Detroit, only to come back to lead 31-24, only to trail 32-31 with 75 seconds left.
Toledo's kickoff, and the return they gave up, gave the Golden Panthers decent field position. But FIU had to convert a 4th-and-17 with a hook-and-lateral to set up the following...
Here's your game winner...
"What these men have achieved is historical," said FIU coach Mario Cristobal. "They've set the bar high for the guys who will come later."
The HQ covered tailback Darriet Perry from his time at Lowndes ((GA)) High, and were quite pleased with his efforts last night...
Here's some postgame, thanks to our friends at FIU their ownselves...
Busy Day for Sitting In UGA-Tech Bowls
((HT: AJC- Roberson, Tucker))
First, since Georgia Tech is playing today in Shreveport against the Air Force... there really don't seem to be a lot of players left...
Three players, including starting outside linebacker Anthony Egbuniwe, were suspended from the first half of the Independence Bowl because they missed Friday night’s curfew.
The other two players are reserve defensive backs Michael Peterson and Louis Young.
Starting safety Mario Edwards was already ruled ineligible earlier this week after failing to meet Tech’s academic standards. Reserve outside linebacker Anthony Barnes and reserve defensive end Robert Hall, also failed to meet the NCAA’s academic standards.
In addition, starting wide receiver Stephen Hill was ruled out, also for failing to meet Tech’s academic standards.
Notice a trend...???
Here's Macon Telegraph reporter Coley Harvey reporting from a very windy parking lot on his keys to the game...
((HT: Coley Harvey his own self))
Now to all the Georgia stuff...
Tailback Caleb King, backup cornerback Derek Owens and reserve offensive lineman A.J. Harmon won’t play in the Liberty Bowl because of academic issues.
According to UGA, King won’t be allowed to play in the game because he violated the athletics department’s attendance policy by missing five academic-related appointments, while Owens and Harmon are ineligible for the game under NCAA academic rules. Those rules require players to earn at least six credit hours in the semester preceding a bowl.
Figures...
Here's a feature that CSTV ran when King was leaving high school asking if he was going to be the next Herschel Walker...
The HQ laughs and points an index finger in the direction of the video below...
Waste, waste, waste...
First, since Georgia Tech is playing today in Shreveport against the Air Force... there really don't seem to be a lot of players left...
Three players, including starting outside linebacker Anthony Egbuniwe, were suspended from the first half of the Independence Bowl because they missed Friday night’s curfew.
The other two players are reserve defensive backs Michael Peterson and Louis Young.
Starting safety Mario Edwards was already ruled ineligible earlier this week after failing to meet Tech’s academic standards. Reserve outside linebacker Anthony Barnes and reserve defensive end Robert Hall, also failed to meet the NCAA’s academic standards.
In addition, starting wide receiver Stephen Hill was ruled out, also for failing to meet Tech’s academic standards.
Notice a trend...???
Here's Macon Telegraph reporter Coley Harvey reporting from a very windy parking lot on his keys to the game...
((HT: Coley Harvey his own self))
Now to all the Georgia stuff...
Tailback Caleb King, backup cornerback Derek Owens and reserve offensive lineman A.J. Harmon won’t play in the Liberty Bowl because of academic issues.
According to UGA, King won’t be allowed to play in the game because he violated the athletics department’s attendance policy by missing five academic-related appointments, while Owens and Harmon are ineligible for the game under NCAA academic rules. Those rules require players to earn at least six credit hours in the semester preceding a bowl.
Figures...
Here's a feature that CSTV ran when King was leaving high school asking if he was going to be the next Herschel Walker...
The HQ laughs and points an index finger in the direction of the video below...
Waste, waste, waste...
Monday Carousel: Tressel Upstairs...? Gundy Hiring A Pirate...? Willis Heading To UF, Assault Investigated At Willis Home
((HT: WOOF Radio, Dothan))
Chicagonow.com is reporting that The Sweater will be moving upstairs to an AD-like position after his bowl game. Current AD Gene Smith, through his Twitter account, responded thusly:
"Merry Xmas everyone!! Go back to drinking your eggnog!! Rumors not true.."
The Chicago Sports Tab is quoting "two sources that are very close to recruiting at prominent universities."
The HQ understands how "locked in" those folks are...
Our friends at 10TV in Columbus claim that Tressel has met with the team and is "staying." What exactly "staying" means is to be determined...
The Tulsa World has their hands full with the idea that Oke State head coach Mike Gundy is looking into the idea of hiring Mike Leach as his new OC- replacing Dana Holgorsen.
DATELINE MAIZE AND BLUE: The main reason Rich-Rod isn't lobbying publicly for his job is that he already knows he's toast. That lends itself to the idea of Jim Harbaugh or Les Miles heading to Ann Arbor- especially, if Harbaugh jumps to the NFL. The only reason the Michigan Athletic Department hasn't pulled the trigger is that the buyout is cut in half after New Year's Day.
Texas Tech DC James Willis has reportedly left Lubbock and Coach Tub's staff and is in talks with Coach Boom to get a gig on the Gator staff- not necessarily a coordinator gig. He was only around for a year.
Don Williams of the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal says that Tuberville will not discuss the vacancy until after today's practice in Dallas as the Red Raiders prepare for their game with Northwestern.
"I wish James the best of luck, but it is important for (the) football team to keep pressing forward,” Tuberville said in the statement. “We have a great defensive staff here that will carry the load along with my assistance as we prepare for Northwestern.”
Lubbock PM UPDATE: According to Fox TV in Lubbock, suburban Lubbock police were called to a home in the town of Wolfforth to answer a domestic violence call early on December 22nd.
The home is currently owned by ECU DC Brian Mitchell and, allegedly, the residence of Willis. Wolfforth police are investigating and have not made an arrest.
Take all of these stories with the appropriate grains of salt you enjoy...
More when we know more...
Chicagonow.com is reporting that The Sweater will be moving upstairs to an AD-like position after his bowl game. Current AD Gene Smith, through his Twitter account, responded thusly:
"Merry Xmas everyone!! Go back to drinking your eggnog!! Rumors not true.."
The Chicago Sports Tab is quoting "two sources that are very close to recruiting at prominent universities."
The HQ understands how "locked in" those folks are...
Our friends at 10TV in Columbus claim that Tressel has met with the team and is "staying." What exactly "staying" means is to be determined...
The Tulsa World has their hands full with the idea that Oke State head coach Mike Gundy is looking into the idea of hiring Mike Leach as his new OC- replacing Dana Holgorsen.
DATELINE MAIZE AND BLUE: The main reason Rich-Rod isn't lobbying publicly for his job is that he already knows he's toast. That lends itself to the idea of Jim Harbaugh or Les Miles heading to Ann Arbor- especially, if Harbaugh jumps to the NFL. The only reason the Michigan Athletic Department hasn't pulled the trigger is that the buyout is cut in half after New Year's Day.
Texas Tech DC James Willis has reportedly left Lubbock and Coach Tub's staff and is in talks with Coach Boom to get a gig on the Gator staff- not necessarily a coordinator gig. He was only around for a year.
Don Williams of the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal says that Tuberville will not discuss the vacancy until after today's practice in Dallas as the Red Raiders prepare for their game with Northwestern.
"I wish James the best of luck, but it is important for (the) football team to keep pressing forward,” Tuberville said in the statement. “We have a great defensive staff here that will carry the load along with my assistance as we prepare for Northwestern.”
Lubbock PM UPDATE: According to Fox TV in Lubbock, suburban Lubbock police were called to a home in the town of Wolfforth to answer a domestic violence call early on December 22nd.
The home is currently owned by ECU DC Brian Mitchell and, allegedly, the residence of Willis. Wolfforth police are investigating and have not made an arrest.
Take all of these stories with the appropriate grains of salt you enjoy...
More when we know more...
Sergio Kindle charged with DUI, has more charges than games played
 |
| Sergio Kindle/Courtesy: wbal-tv |
Read more from WBAL-TV RIGHT HERE
Yes, this isn't Mr. Kindle's first dance with those in law enforcement. While at the University of Texas, he was arrested for DUI in 2007 at age 20, we might add, and in 2009, he drove into a parked building, yes, I said a building.
He wasn't playing this season due to injuries suffered when he fell down not one, but two flights of stairs. Read our story from that incident in July of this year....RIGHT HERE
Amazingly, the Ravens still gave Kindle a contract for this season. Granted, it was for essentially the league minimum, $320,000, but still he's getting paid essentially for doing nothing other than showing up. Based on reports, Kindle may never actually play for the Ravens...or anyone else and while we feel badly that the injury suffered in the fall down the stairs may have derailed his career before it started, in the long run, the Ravens probably don't need the headache's a healthy Kindle would cause.
Here is some video of Kindle when he was still playing football....at the University of Texas.
Ed Reed is "En Fuego"....Literally
Yeah, we went there. Really, there isn't much to say here other than Haha! glad you weren't hurt. So in that vein, we'll do a quick set-up. Baltimore Ravens Safety Ed Reed is on the sideline while his teams offense is on the field. The Ravens were in Cleveland, playing the Browns, which means it was really, really cold.
So Reed did what most would do, put on a heavy jacket and sit down near a heater. Only he got a bit too close.
Check out the video:
So Reed did what most would do, put on a heavy jacket and sit down near a heater. Only he got a bit too close.
Check out the video:
While most of us slept, Mike Singletary was fired
 |
| Mike Singletary/Courtesy: SFGate.com |
Sometime around the time the San Francisco 49ers arrived back home after their 25-17 loss to the St.Louis Rams, the team decided to ax now former Head Coach Mike Singletary.
There had been a lot of rumbling that this was imminent as the 49ers, a trendy pick to win the NFC Lest...I mean West, have been a huge letdown, going 5-10 so far this season.
From firing Offensive Coordinator Jimmy Raye three games into the season, to fighting with his Quarterbacks, Singletary's style just never meshed with his team. In fact, the loss to the Rams was punctuated with video of the coach getting in a heated argument with QB Troy Smith after he got benched during the game.
More from SF Gate.com RIGHT HERE
It's an unfortunate fate for the Coach, who many felt was in over his head when hired. He was the teams Linebackers Coach when he was hired two seasons ago. His status as the fiery Middle Linebacker who was a focal point of the Chicago Bears 46 defense back in the 80's, garnered him a lot of respect by his peers. He was hired after interviewing for several jobs in 2008 including the Atlanta Falcons job that eventually went to Mike Smith.
We wish Singletary well and suspect he'll end up as an Assistant somewhere before long. In the meantime, Defensive Line Coach Jim Tomsula will take over for the season ender against Arizona on Sunday. We'll keep an ear out for potential replacements, but expect Stanford Coach Jim Harbaugh's name to be Number 1 on 49ers Team President Jed York's list.
Here is the video of the Singletary/Smith blowup from Sunday:
And here's Singletary addressing his egress...
((HT: KPIX-TV))
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Zygi Wilf Wants 2011 Vikings Outside...?
((HT: ESPN, Mortensen))
Sources tell Mortemer Spice that the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission is kicking the tires on the idea of playing the 2011 season outdoors at TCF Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota.
The decision should come in late January or early February. Vikings owner Zygi Wilf will make a decision consulting with the league office on whether to play the 2011 season at the Metrodome or TCF Bank Stadium.
The Monday night game was the Vikings' first outdoor home game since moving into the Metrodome for the 1982 season.
Here's what it looked like playing outdoors in 1980...
((HT: NFL/NBC/Youtube))
Last week, Bill Lester, executive director of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, said it's still not clear how long total repairs would take, including whether it would involve replacing just pieces of the roof, or replacing it entirely, and how much the repairs would cost.
But he also said the stadium would be ready for the 2011 season.
Here's what they're fighting...
((HT: WLUK-TV))
Actually, the HQ thinks this is Wilf's power play to get a new barn once and for all.
And, if you were Zygi, wouldn't you make the same play...???
Sources tell Mortemer Spice that the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission is kicking the tires on the idea of playing the 2011 season outdoors at TCF Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota.
The decision should come in late January or early February. Vikings owner Zygi Wilf will make a decision consulting with the league office on whether to play the 2011 season at the Metrodome or TCF Bank Stadium.
The Monday night game was the Vikings' first outdoor home game since moving into the Metrodome for the 1982 season.
Here's what it looked like playing outdoors in 1980...
((HT: NFL/NBC/Youtube))
Last week, Bill Lester, executive director of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, said it's still not clear how long total repairs would take, including whether it would involve replacing just pieces of the roof, or replacing it entirely, and how much the repairs would cost.
But he also said the stadium would be ready for the 2011 season.
Here's what they're fighting...
((HT: WLUK-TV))
Actually, the HQ thinks this is Wilf's power play to get a new barn once and for all.
And, if you were Zygi, wouldn't you make the same play...???
Notre Dame Prez Defends Seeberg Investigation
((HT: WSBT-TV South Bend/South Bend Tribune, Fosmoe))
The Reverend John I. Jenkins is defending the integrity school's investigation of a sexual battery allegation against a student football player by a female student who later committed suicide.
“I cannot stand by and allow the integrity of Notre Dame to be challenged so publicly. The values at issue go to the very heart of who and what we are at Notre Dame,” President Jenkins said last week.
Notre Dame Security Police conducted a “thorough and judicious investigation that followed the facts where they led and exhibited the integrity that I believe characterizes this institution,” Jenkins said.
Prosecutor Michael Dvorak, who received the investigatory report from campus police in November, announced back on the 16th that criminal charges would not be filed against the player or against another male student who allegedly sent Seeberg text messages of a threatening nature.
Here's the interview with ABCNews where the Seeberg family addressed the Notre Dame investigation- and they weren't happy one bit...
President Jenkins said the player and the player’s friend still may face disciplinary action by Notre Dame’s office of residence life — the player for his alleged actions of August 31st, and the male friend for allegedly sending text messages September 2nd to Seeberg, including one saying, “Messing with notre dame football is a bad idea.”
The text was in response to Seeberg's police report where she said:
"I didn't feel safe in his room....he proceeded to grab my face and started to kiss me. Tears started rolling down my face because I didn't know what to do...I felt so scared, I couldn't move."
President Jenkins has not spoken with the Seebergs since the funeral of their daughter, Lizzy. He maintains publicly that he is trying to remain somewhat detached from the legal machinations until a decision may need to be made on campus as to the students involved in the charges.
The Reverend John I. Jenkins is defending the integrity school's investigation of a sexual battery allegation against a student football player by a female student who later committed suicide.
“I cannot stand by and allow the integrity of Notre Dame to be challenged so publicly. The values at issue go to the very heart of who and what we are at Notre Dame,” President Jenkins said last week.
Notre Dame Security Police conducted a “thorough and judicious investigation that followed the facts where they led and exhibited the integrity that I believe characterizes this institution,” Jenkins said.
Prosecutor Michael Dvorak, who received the investigatory report from campus police in November, announced back on the 16th that criminal charges would not be filed against the player or against another male student who allegedly sent Seeberg text messages of a threatening nature.
Here's the interview with ABCNews where the Seeberg family addressed the Notre Dame investigation- and they weren't happy one bit...
President Jenkins said the player and the player’s friend still may face disciplinary action by Notre Dame’s office of residence life — the player for his alleged actions of August 31st, and the male friend for allegedly sending text messages September 2nd to Seeberg, including one saying, “Messing with notre dame football is a bad idea.”
The text was in response to Seeberg's police report where she said:
"I didn't feel safe in his room....he proceeded to grab my face and started to kiss me. Tears started rolling down my face because I didn't know what to do...I felt so scared, I couldn't move."
President Jenkins has not spoken with the Seebergs since the funeral of their daughter, Lizzy. He maintains publicly that he is trying to remain somewhat detached from the legal machinations until a decision may need to be made on campus as to the students involved in the charges.
DEVELOPING: Vikings-Eagles moved to Tuesday...Weather gods have it out for Vikes
 |
| Eagles game in snow/courtesy: gettyimages.com |
Part of the reason may have been the fact that the city has already declared a Snow Emergency for Sunday afternoon. Or at least we think that's what it is.
We've been in Philly when it snowed nearly a foot in about 4-hours so it can...and does come down fast. And the city has more than enough experience cleaning Lincoln Financial Field in a hurry. However, the football fans we are pretty sure would still be there...except for the fact that the Snow Emergency essentially discourages them from driving.
Oh well. The game will now be played Tuesday night at 8pm and it will still be on NBC for those keeping track of such things.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Kyle Addresses Shanahanigans Over McNabb
((HT: CSNWashington))
Kinda... at least Redskins OC Kyle Shanahan and QB Donovan McNabb had a sit-down to discuss things...
CSNW's Kelli Johnson cornered Kyle in the parking lot at Redskins Park...
Kyle's familiarity with Rex Grossman is understood with their time in Houston with the Texans... we all know how well that went...
And Brother J-Dub knows how well its going now...
Kinda... at least Redskins OC Kyle Shanahan and QB Donovan McNabb had a sit-down to discuss things...
CSNW's Kelli Johnson cornered Kyle in the parking lot at Redskins Park...
Kyle's familiarity with Rex Grossman is understood with their time in Houston with the Texans... we all know how well that went...
And Brother J-Dub knows how well its going now...
TWTW Bowling: Is Tulsa's Todd Graham Still A Honk...?
The reason the HQ asks is that the Golden Hurricane ran up 62 against the host Hawai'i squad in the bowl game on the big island in a 62-35 win on Christmas Eve...
The Warriors lost star wideout Kealoha Pilares early in the game and were never the same offensively... and the reason we ask the question above is that the Warrior defense seemed to tank in the fourth quarter- perception can go either way.
Here's some sound from Graham about how important it was for the team to get to a 10-win season, thanks to our friends at KJRH-TV in Tulsa
G.J. Kinne, Damaris Johnson and 15 other starters return for Tulsa. The Golden Hurricane should be the favorites to win Conference USA going into 2011. As for Hawaii, the Warriors return QB Bryant Moniz, who threw for more than 5,000 yards this season.
Tulsa's Damaris Johnson became the career leader for all-purpose yards in the NCAA with 7,799. He had 329 all-purpose yards against Hawaii and three touchdowns.
Both teams combined for 1,076 total yards of offense, but Warrior quarterbacks threw 5 interceptions and a fumble lost is thrown in for good measure.
Highlights when we have them...
The Warriors lost star wideout Kealoha Pilares early in the game and were never the same offensively... and the reason we ask the question above is that the Warrior defense seemed to tank in the fourth quarter- perception can go either way.
Here's some sound from Graham about how important it was for the team to get to a 10-win season, thanks to our friends at KJRH-TV in Tulsa
G.J. Kinne, Damaris Johnson and 15 other starters return for Tulsa. The Golden Hurricane should be the favorites to win Conference USA going into 2011. As for Hawaii, the Warriors return QB Bryant Moniz, who threw for more than 5,000 yards this season.
Tulsa's Damaris Johnson became the career leader for all-purpose yards in the NCAA with 7,799. He had 329 all-purpose yards against Hawaii and three touchdowns.
Both teams combined for 1,076 total yards of offense, but Warrior quarterbacks threw 5 interceptions and a fumble lost is thrown in for good measure.
Highlights when we have them...
Friday, December 24, 2010
Happy Run DMC Holiday from the OSG
Just to be brief. We here at the OnlineSportsGuys (OSG), want to wish those of you who read us faithfully...and those of you who occasionally check us out, the happiest and healthiest of holiday seasons.
In that vein, we give you the honorary Christmas song...at least for this year:
In that vein, we give you the honorary Christmas song...at least for this year:
December Contender: NHL Fight Of The Year
((HT: Hockeyfightsdotcom/NHL/FSStars))
The HQ presents the Dallas Stars Jamie Benn and the Calgary Flames Jarome Iginla...
Compubox Stats give the fight early to Benn ((landing the blow that drew blood)) with Iginla's staying power giving him the round 10-9...
The HQ presents the Dallas Stars Jamie Benn and the Calgary Flames Jarome Iginla...
Compubox Stats give the fight early to Benn ((landing the blow that drew blood)) with Iginla's staying power giving him the round 10-9...
Goalie Fight! Goalie Fight!
((HT: TheScore/HuffPost))
During a Wednesday-night ECHL brawl between the Florida Everblades and the Gwinnett Gladiators, Florida goalie Bobby Goepfert left the crease as part of the on-ice do-se-do. Gwinnett's Billy Sauer skated out and challenged Goepfert, which resulted in the two goalies standing at centre ice trying to figure out how to hit each other without looking like non-hockey players trying to hit each other.
Enjoy...
The HQ has covered its share of ECHL games and this, really, is about average. The league is supposed to be a proving ground for every player and their specific role in higher levels.
Hey, if goalies fight... they fight...
During a Wednesday-night ECHL brawl between the Florida Everblades and the Gwinnett Gladiators, Florida goalie Bobby Goepfert left the crease as part of the on-ice do-se-do. Gwinnett's Billy Sauer skated out and challenged Goepfert, which resulted in the two goalies standing at centre ice trying to figure out how to hit each other without looking like non-hockey players trying to hit each other.
Enjoy...
The HQ has covered its share of ECHL games and this, really, is about average. The league is supposed to be a proving ground for every player and their specific role in higher levels.
Hey, if goalies fight... they fight...
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