Friday Funnies

It's nice to see the Los Angeles Kings Ice Girls have taken Halloween so seriously this year. I wonder what outfits they'll pull out for Christmas. Do they have St. Patrick's Day outfits as well? This is opening up a whole new world of ice girls costumes everywhere.
(Photo: Reuters)

Things I learned at the Ranger Game

Rangers 3, Thrashers 2

1. Someone bought a Ryan Hollweg Jersey. That’s right; I saw some of the most amazing jerseys at the game including that gem.

2. Also apparently, it’s not too early to purchase your Wade Redden and Aaron Voros jerseys but still too early for that Nigel Dawes jersey. I’m always one for waiting on buying expensive things until I’m sure it’s a good choice. But apparently three weeks into the season was long enough to start buying up jerseys for some of the Rangers newest acquisitions. Sadly though, I saw no Nigel Dawes jerseys but a slew of Dan Girardi ones. Who knew he was so popular?

3. Potvin Sucks. Which I was reminded of a few times during the game.

4. Even though this is a family environment, it’s a very colorful family environment. I don’t think I’ve ever heard more expletives at a sporting event in my life. But frankly, I was ok with that.

5. Colton Orr has some stamina. Colton Orr quickly got himself into a fight with the Trashers Eric Boulton, getting some good hits in and everytime you thought they were done, Orr would sneak in other blow and the fisticuffs would continue.

6. King Henrik is amazing…but he could use some help every once in a while.

7. Green Man makes appearances outside of Philadelphia. As anyone who reads this blog regularly knows, I love It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. One of the characters on the show, Charlie loves to dress up as Green Man like the time the gang tried out to be on the Eagles or the time Sweet Dee wanted to be an internet star. So I was super stoked to see him on the jumbotron during the game. (Although obviously not the actual Green Man)

8. Larry really can dance.

9. Dan Fritsche may want to work on his moves. Or as the person behind us shouted, "That’s going to cost you that shoot-out spot."

10. How I look on the jumbotron. Yes, for the first time ever, my lovely face (actually my hand) made an appearance on the jumbotron. Too bad the 10 year old in front of me was way too adorable for the camera to pan up a few feet.

For more photos from the game, click here.

cause this is thriller

Baseball: The Phillies are celebrating Halloween with a parade. Warning all phans heading out to celebrate, the Mayor says you shouldn't be a "jackass"...One day after the Phillies clinched their first world series in 28 years, 65 players filed for free agency including Mark Teixeira, Manny Ramirez and Ben Sheets...Speaking of Manny, the Yankees are apparently very interested in his services...The Rays are willing to give Rocco Baldelli a new contract...The Tigers declined Edgar Renteria's option, buying him out for a cool $3 million...The Marlins traded first baseman Mike Jacobs to the Royals for relief pitcher Leo Nunez...The Brewers have a new manager, Ken Macha.



Basketball: Ron Artest came up big for the Rockets in the 112-102 defeat of the Mavs...Chris Paul's double-double helped spur the Hornets to a 108-95 victory over the Suns...The Lakers have rewarded Andrew Bynum with a four year contract extension...It's like everyday there's more news that comes out on the Isiah Thomas incident...Speaking of the Knicks, I don't know if cursing out the fans will get them to like you, Mike D'Antoni.
(Photo: Tim Heitman/NBAE via Getty Images)

College Basketball: Tyler Hansborough is out indefinitely with a shin injury.

College Football: Cincinnati pummeled South Florida, 24-10...Tim Tebow's knee has healed.

Football: The Colts could lose CB Marlin Jackson for the rest of the season with a knee injury...Cowboys TE Jason Witten wants to play but whether he plays will be a game time decision...With the election less than a week away, candidates Barack Obama and John McCain will be making an appearance on Monday Night Football.

Hockey: Sidney Crosby sat out the third period with an injury in the Pens 4-1 loss to the Coyotes...The Rangers continue to be awesome picking up their league leading 21st point in their 3-2 edging for the Thrashers. (check back for an all new things I learned from last night's game)...The Flames extended their win streak to five with a 3-2 victory over the Bruins...The Sharks netted three in the second to beat the Red Wings, 4-2...The Senators re-signed Daniel Alfredsson to a four year deal...Brendan Shanahan is on the market...The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to be the most valuable team in hockey.

Nascar: Everything is bigger in Texas, and with three races remaining in the Chase Jimmie Johnson's competition is hoping to make some big gains, but only if the two time defending champ stumbles. Watch the the Dickies 500 at 3 PM/est on ABC to see if anyone can take on Johnson...Larry McClure, co-founder of Morgan-McClure Motorsports has been indicted on federal tax law violations...Kyle Petty could be moving over to Grand-Am Series in 2009.

Best of the Rest: Judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii is leaving the sport to try his hand in mixed martial arts.

Check this out: Take a look at some of your favorite stars pre-fame roles in horror flicks right here.

It's Always Sunny on Thursdays

Judging from the title of tonight’s all new episode of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” Sweet Dee suffers a heart attack and no, it’s not because the Phillies just won the World Series. But if you tune into FX at 10 PM/est, you’ll be able to find out.

For those of you that may have missed an episode, click here to catch up!

Let's See What Joe Torre Is Up To

Sitting courtside next to Billy Crystal at the Lakers game...I guess he's really enjoying his new life.

(Photo: Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

A Winning Debut

Basketball: Blazers Greg Oden will miss 2-to-4 weeks after injuring his foot during the first game of the season. Well at least it's not for the entire season this time...Terry Porter picked up his first win as coach of the Suns as they rolled past the Spurs, 103-98...Speaking of winning in your coaching debut, the Knicks cooled the Heat, 120-115...Unfortunately for the Thunder, they could not pick up a victory in their first home game, falling to the Bucks, 98-87...The NBA has one-upped the NHL by reportedly deciding to make the new Dallas Cowboys stadium the home of the 2010 NBA All-Star game.

College Basketball: The rankings are out and North Carolina tops the charts.

College Football: Houston WR Patrick Edwards underwent surgery on his leg after he broke it running into a service cart.

Football: T.J. Houshmandzadeh guarantees the Bengals will not go 0-16. Way to be bold on that declaration...Former Raiders coach Lane Kiffin has filed a grievance with the NFL to claim lost salary...The Cowboys are sticking with Brad Johnson...The Detroit Lions liked what they saw out of Dante Culpepper...The NFL has fined but not suspended Pats defensive tackle Vince Wilfork for his hit on Denver QB Jay Cutler.




Hockey: With their 4-2 win, the Stars handed the Wild their first regulation loss of the season...Teemui Selanne netted his 21st career hat trick and Francois Beauchemin scored the game winner in the Ducks 5-4 (OT) victory over the Red Wings...The Leafs rallied from a 4-0 deficit to hand the Devils a 6-5 SO loss.
(Photo: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Nascar: Jack Roush wants a mulligan in an updated Chase format. I think everyone knows where I stand on the Chase format, but adding a mulligan makes it even more ridiculous...Kodak is ending its partnership with Nascar...Congrats to Ken Schrader on winning Bill Elliott's charity race.

Best of the Rest: Why are almost all of the players on China's Olympic Watch list girls?...And Marion Jones if you thought you could have won gold without the steriods, then why didn't you ditch the clear?


Check this out: Halloween is tomorrow. And if you're still stuck on ideas on what to wear, here are few from EW.

And the Winner is…

Game 5 Recap Cont’d:
When we last left the Phillies and the Rays, the game was tied at 2-2 and a steady wind and rain made it impossible to proceed with the game. Cut to almost 48 hours later and finally the bottom of the sixth got underway with the Phillies pouncing first thanks to pinch hitter Geoff Jenkins who smashed a double, eventually scoring on a Jayson Werth single. But the Rays refused to give up, tying the score at 3 a piece on a Rocco Baldelli solo shot. However, the Phillies fighting ways ultimately decided the game. Pat Burrell missed a homerun by inches but reached second base safely and was replaced by pinch runner Eric Bruntlett who scored the game winning run off of a Pedro Feliz single to give the Phillies the 4-3 win and their first World Series in 28 years. Congrats to the Phillies!
WP: J.C. Romero (2-0) LP: J.P. Howell (0-2) S: Brad Lidge (2)

News&Notes: Congrats to Cole Hamels on being named World Series MVP…The Umpires admitted to a blown call in game 4...The ratings for the first half of Game 5 were not too good...MLB is looking into changing the rules so that all World Series game will have to go at least nine innings...The Brewers may be willing to shop Prince Fielder. Besides the fact that he carried Milwaukee through September, he's a franchsie player. I can see trading Hardy, but this seems crazy...The White Sox are reportedly not interested in re-signing Ken Griffey, Jr...The Angels exercised options for John Lackey and Vladimir Guerrero...Mets reliever Ambiorix Burgos was released from a Dominican jail...Colorado Rockies pitcher Luis Vizcaino was arrested on DUI charges in Tampa on Monday...Julio Rodriguez plead guilty to involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to five years in jail after he pulled out a gun and shot three people who were teasing him at Boston bar about liking the Yankees...And for our final popo story of the morning, Minor Leaguer Julio Castillo was charged with one count of felonious assault with a deadly weapon and one count of felonious assault causing serious physical harm after threw a ball at a Dayton player that went into the stands and hit a fan.
(photo: Charles Krupa/AP)

Uh-huh...Still Waiting...

I’m taking a personal stand against this whole never ending baseball game that is moving towards day 3 if the City of Brotherly Love can’t keep the rain out, by not blogging until this game actually happens. Ok, fine, I am actually super swamped at work and with the economy in the crapper I decided it was probably not the best time fore me to lose the job that actually helps me pay for my car and stuff but I’ll be back tomorrow with a recap of all the news of the past two days and maybe just maybe the results of Game 5 of the World Series. Cross your fingers!

Oh and if you have DirecTV, Friday Night Lights is on tonight!

And the wait continues...

(Photo: Gene J. Puskar/AP Photo)

Game 5 has been postponed yet again and with a free night, here are a couple of ways you can take up those precious hours you were planning on spending watching the final innings of last night's game:

1. Explore downtown Wilmington, DE

2. Or hit up one of Philadelphia's historic sites like the Liberty Bell perhaps

3. Show your Philly support by eating a cheese steak (mmm cheese steak!)

4. Show your support for the Rays by getting that overdue haircut

5. Head over to your local Bass Pro Shops and pick up some hand and feet warmers if you’re planning on attending Game 5 (whenever that will be) or frankly planning on leaving your home in the next two days if you're somewhere around the northeast

6. Do a movie marathon of your favorite baseball movies (The Natural, Major League and A League of Their Own top my list)

7. Try to watch the NBA’s opening night. For some this task is much harder than for others

8. Debate who has the hottest wags or players and discuss if that will have any effect on who will win the Series.

9. Watch Privileged, because it’s awesome and in dire need of viewers (9 PM/est on The CW)

10. Finally get those eight hours of sleep your body has been longing for since the postseason began three weeks ago

Rain Delay: World Series 2008 Update

No one thought the weather would be optimal, but Major League Baseball was hoping it was going to be playable, however as of 11: 14 PM/est, all hope is gone, with Game 5 of the World Series being postponed until tomorrow (Tuesday). As I have an all day training session tomorrow, I was also holding out hope that this game would get done in time for me to do a wrap up post, instead I’m similarly in a holding position. Since five and half innings are already in the books, I figure a minor recap couldn’t hurt.



Game 5 Recap (Innings 1-6)
It was a rocky start for Rays pitcher Scott Kazmir, who allowed a two run single to Shane Victorino that scored Jayson Werth and Chase Utley in the first. But Kazmir settled in before walking Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell in consecutive at bats in the fifth spelling the end of his night. Grant Belfour was called in to replace him and held the Phillies scoreless before turning it over to the Rays offense, who tied it up at 2 a piece thanks to a Carlos Pena single that scored B.J. Upton. The run was scored just in time for the tarp to cover the infield suspending the game in the bottom of the sixth until 8 PM/est Tuesday night when the game will be restarted. The weather is supposed to be equally as frigid, but hopefully not quite as rainy.
(Photo from Braves @ Phillies July 2006)

Things they saw at Citizen's Bank Park

Readers Howard and Karen were lucky enough to score tickets to games 3 and 4 of the World Series and sent over some awesome photos for everyone to enjoy! (There are few from Game 1 of the NLDS mixed in as well)

(The start of Game 3)

Chase Utley

Shane Victorino at Bat

(The line-up for the Phils for Game 4)

Jayson Werth and Ryan Howard

Pat Burrell

And the best dressed guy at the game was:

If you've been reading my post season recaps this year, you may have noticed my love of creative signs. Here were a few they found:

(The Liberty Bell Rings Louder Than A Cowbell)

Apparently there were are few "Beat the Rays for Steve Irwin" signs but Howard (the photographer) couldn't get any great shots.

Bonus photo from Game 1 of the NLDS:

Thanks for the all the great pictures!!!!

Name that bearded Rays Pitcher

*Warning: today’s going to be a little heavy on World Series posts*


(Photo: Getty Images)

In honor of the always enjoyable "name that catching Molina brother" or the newer "name that Staal" game, I bring you "name that bearded Rays pitcher":

Andy Sonnanstine
The Game 4 starter for the Rays totally reminds me John Smoltz every time I’ve see him on TV this postseason.

(Photo: Reuters)

Trever Miller

One of the Rays many talented bullpen arms has seen his beard evolve from a gotee to full on playoff beard.

(Photo: Reuters)

Chad Bradford

Bradford's facial hair is looking a little patchy but it's hard to pay attention to someone's face when their arm moves in ways I'm not sure it's supposed to.

(Photo: Elsa/Getty Images)

Dan Wheeler
Wheeler is another member of the bullpen, who at this point I think have decided to do their own bonding by growing out the beards.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Watch tonight’s Game 5 of the World Series to put this little lesson into action!

Overdosing on injuries

Basketball: As I was leaving early on Friday to head over the movies, I quickly saw a flash of some weird overdose reported at Isiah Thomas' Westchester home. And now the story as only gotten odder...Don Nelson and the Warriors have agreed on a two year extension.

College Football: Penn State closes gap on first place Texas in the BCS...Texas Tech moves up to No.6 in this week's AP Top 25...Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany may discipline an official after a botched TD call during the Michigan-Michigan State game on Saturday...Wisconsin Badgers TE Travis Beckum broke his leg during Saturday's 27-17 win over Illinois and will be out for the remainder of the season...Florida coach Urban Meyer is putting a gag order on his team.

Football: It may not have been pretty, but it was a win for Big Blue who took down the Steelers, 21-14...Plaxico Burress did not start after missing a scheduled treatment on his neck Saturday...Brett Favre lead the Jets to a 28-24 victory over the Chiefs...According to his wife Deanna, Brett's the same old guy, even after this latest round of rumors...The Cowboys edged the Bucs, 13-9, but not without cost, as TE Jason Witten went out with bruised ribs...The Saints held onto a 37-32 win over the Chargers in London...Probably not a debut to remember for Mike Singletary and the 49ers...Click here for the rest of Sunday's scores.

Hockey: Red Wings forward Johan Franzen will be out for three to four weeks with a sprained left knee. The injury was suffered during the Wings 6-5 SO victory over the Blackhawks...After missing the first four games with injury, Rick DiPietro is questionable for Monday's game against the Rangers after leaving during Saturday night's 4-3 loss to the Hurricanes...Speaking of the Rangers, after a scary incident in the second period of their 3-1 win over the Blue Jackets in which coach Tom Renney was hit in the head with a hockey stick, Renney took to the bench in the Rangers 3-2 OT win over the Penguins...The NHL trade deadline is reportedly being moved to March 4.



Nascar: Congratulations to Carl Edward on winning at Atlanta on Sunday. Click here for the results...Jimmie Johnson's second place finish has kept it near impossible for anyone to gain ground on the points leader. Click here for the updated standings...Casey Mears may hope into a fourth RCR car as early as Homestead. With Mears out of his Hendrick ride, does that mean Mark Martin could take over the reigns in 2008?
(Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: David Beckham apparently initiated contact with AC Milan to get his ass out of LA...In other soccer news, the Red Bulls have made the playoffs!...Roger Federer collected his third straight Swiss Indoors.

Check this out: Guess what was number one at the box office this weekend. And yes, it was the best of the trilogy!

Three Stars: World Series 2008 Update

Game 3 Recap:
Jamie Moyer put his two previous starts this post season behind him and hurled a gutsy performance to help push his boyhood team to a 5-4 victory. Moyer was unable to tally the victory after the previously near-perfect Phillies bullpen had a bit of a hiccup. But Carlos Ruiz came through in the ninth with a chopper that Evan Longoria was unable to field cleanly, allowing Eric Bruntlett to score the game winning run, ending a nine inning marathon that began after a 1:31 rain delay.
WP: J.C. Romero (1-0) LP: J.P. Howell (0-1)

Game 4 Recap:
After each game in hockey three stars are chosen. If you look back on the weekend that was for the Phillies, Moyer would have to receive one for Saturday and Joe Blanton and Ryan Howard would pick up the other two after their performances on Sunday. Not only did Blanton toss six plus innings, allowing just two runs and striking out seven, he also hit his first career major league homerun to pad the Phillies lead to 6-2 at the time. Ryan Howard hit two homers in Philadelphia’s 10-2 victory and was a member of the Phils' offense that finally broke out of their rut and put them just a game away from winning a World Series Championship.
WP: Joe Blanton (1-0) LP: Andy Sonnanstine (0-1)
Phillies Lead Series: 3-1

Game 5:
Rays Starter: Scott Kazmir (0-1)
Phillies Starter: Cole Hamels (1-0)
Location: Citizen’s Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
Start Time: 8 PM/est on Fox

News&Notes: I guess when the game doesn't start until after 10 PM/est, you shouldn't be surprised that the ratings were low...The Rays replaced Cliff Floyd, whose shoulder problem has prevented him from continuing to play in the Series, with Eric Hinske. Good thing, Hinske hit a pinch-hit homerun in his first place appearance on Sunday...Tampa Bay surpassed the 1992 Braves and 1975 Rays for the most steals in a post season...Congratulations to Kevin Youkilis and Aramis Ramirez on winning the Hank Aaron Award, Albert Pujols on winning the Roberto Clemente Award and Brad Lidge on being named Delivery Man of the Year...The Blue Jays signed converted pitcher Adam Loewen to a minor league deal while claiming right-hander Bryan Bullington off waivers...First Cuts talked with Rob McElhenney of "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia" about Philadelphia sports. Click here for the interview...Finally, ESPN is thinking of breaking up the Sunday Night Baseball team of Joe Morgan and John Miller. Sounds good to me, fire Morgan and replace him with someone who actually answers questions better than Sarah Palin.

(Photos taken from Photo Day 2008)

Friday Funnies

I don't know if this is more embarrassing than funny. You decide:



(via Just Jared)

Kyle Kendrick hearts BSB

(Photos: Reuters; Getty Images)

After watching the first two games of the World Series I thought to myself, "Are the Backstreet Boys and Los Lonely Boys the best the Rays could produce?" I felt like I was back in senior year of high school, less the physics tests, cafeteria pizza, Abercrombie clothes and the other member of the Backstreet Boys, because last time I checked (say 2002) there were five members.

While I may be a bit perplexed by the Rays musical choices, there is one person who was pretty stoked to see BSB sing before game 1…Phillies pitcher Kyle Kendrick. He wrote about it in his diary for the phillyburbs.com:

I texted some of my buddies, guys I grew up with back in Seattle.

“You won't believe this, the Backstreet Boys were here,” I told 'em.

I was standing on the third-base line at Tropicana Field with my teammates when they sang the national anthem. It was pretty exciting for me.

Dude, we’re both the same age, I’m a girl and even I’ve moved on from my Backstreet Boys love. Now if this was 'N Sync, then it could be a completely different story.
(source via Ben Maller)

Late Night?

Basketball: The NBA has voted to expand the use of instant replay...Oh they're looking into playing an All-Star game in Europe...Kobe Bryant was held out of the Lakers' preseason game against the Bobcats on Thursday with swelling in his knee...Amare Stoudemire dislocated his left pinky in the Suns 102-93 victory over the Thunder...Grant Hill and Shaquille O'Neal want to buy the Orlando Magic.
(Photo: Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

College Basketball: Lute Olson has stepped down as head coach of Arizona, effectively immediately...Cincinnati point guard Cashmere Wright tore a knee ligament and will be out for the season.

College Football: West Virginia pummeled Auburn, 34-17.

Football: Apparently people don't like the word bounty...Or certain TD celebrations...Mike Ditka has solved the NFL crisis, "Take the mask off the helmet"...Daunte Culpepper is over this whole retirement thing...Peyton Manning had a staph infection too?...Chad Ocho Cinco's jersey will have Johnson on the back for the remainder of the season...NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said a rehabbing Adam Jones could return to the NFL. I love Pacman for pure entertainment value, but seriously, sometimes you have to cut the cord...Steeler receiver Santonio Holmes will be charged with misdemeanor pot possession after the popo smelled marijuana burning in his car. Watch out Santonio, because the popo are on your tail!

Hockey: The Penguins scored four goals in the third period to shock the Hurricanes, 4-1...The Sabres' Derek Roy scored a goal 44 seconds into overtime to hand the Wild their first loss, 4-3...Mike Ribeiro notched five points in the Stars 5-3 victory over the Islanders...Puck Daddy talked to the incredibly awesome Kevin Smith. Click here for the interview.

Nascar: With the Chase winding down, the Cup boys move onto my personal favorite track, Atlanta Motor Speedway. The high speeds and wide groove make for excellent racing but that still doesn't always explain the thrilling photo finishes. Tune into the Pep Boys Auto 500 at 1 PM/est on ABC to catch all the action...Nascar will keep a 43 car field for next year's Sprint Cup...It has been announced that Camping World will take over the naming sponsorship for Nascar's Truck Series...Paul Tracy will make his Truck Series debut at Texas on Halloween.

Check this out: I'm embarrassed to admit it, but this is what I'll be doing this afternoon.

Tag, you're it: World Series 2008 Update

Game 2 Recap:
For his third straight start in this postseason, Brett Myers began Thursday’s game rather shaky, allowing three runs in the first two innings. The only difference was that Myer’s did not have his bat to fall back on, or the rest of the Phillies’ offense for that matter. The Phils have managed to drive in just one run in 28 opportunities with men in scoring position over the first two games of this series. Couple that with the Rays who effectively moved their runners around the basepaths while David Price regained his composure after allowing two Philadelphia runs in the late innings and the 4-2 win by Tampa Bay becomes all the more obvious. The Rays' win evened the Series at one game a piece as the two teams head to Philadelphia for game three on Saturday.
WP: James Shields (1-0) LP: Brett Myers (0-1)
Rays and Phillies are tied: 1-1

Game 3:
Rays Starter: Matt Garza
Phillies Starter: Jamie Moyer
Location: Citizen’s Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
Game Time: 8 PM/est on Saturday on Fox

News&Notes: It was a note worthy night for Rays RF Rocco Baldelli and not just because of that controversial walk followed by his run-in with Carlos Ruiz at homeplate in the second inning, but also because it was the first time he had played nine innings in the field in 2008...It's not like you didn't see this coming, ratings were down for game 1 of the World Series as compared with a year ago...With the prospect of playing a World Series game in November on the horizon, commissioner Bud Selig hopes to shorten the postseason in 2009 by eliminating some of the off days...The Braves want Peavy, but GM Frank Wren says they aren't willing to part with some of their top prospects. Get rid of Kelly Johnson but don't touch Hanson...The Mets have hired Randy Newman as their new bullpen coach and Razor Shines as the new third base coach.
(Photo: AP)

It's Always Sunny on Thursdays

Here's another separated at birth:




Don't forget to catch an all new episode of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia at 10 PM/est on FX!

Hot N Cold

Basketball: Kobe Bryant's knee injury does not believe to be serious. So you can start breathing again Lakers fans...According to GMs around the League, the Lakers will avenge their Finals loss to the Celtics...Greg Oden recorded a double-double in the Blazers 87-75 blasting of the Clippers...Bulls guard Larry Hughes left Wednesday's 85-75 win over the T'Wolves with a dislocated right shoulder.
(Photo: Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)

College Football: Tim Tebow's Heisman pick Texas' Colt McCoy says he'll be returning to Austin next season...Former Alabama QB Ken Stabler has been found not guilty of DUI. But Ken watch out, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: Larry Johnson is sorry for being an ass...And to make matters worse for the Chiefs, they had to put two QBs on IR and will start Tyler Thigpen on Sunday...Kellen Winslow is appealing his suspension...Tom Brady is continuing to have problems with his surgically repaired knee and the Patriots are not happy. Mainly because Brady went against the team's wishes and had the surgery done in California with a doctor not recommended by the team...Mike Holmgren is not going to coach the 49ers next season, instead he's taking a sabbatical. When did he become a college professor?

Hockey: Apparently Sean Avery could not work his magic on Martin Brodeur as the goalie recorded his 98th career shut-out in the Devils 5-0 embarrassment of the Stars...Not to be out done, Blackhawks' goalie Nikolai Khabibulin notched his 39th career shut-out to give the Hawks a 3-0 victory over the Oilers, their first loss of the season...No lack for offense in the Sharks' 7-6 SO victory over the Flyers. Former Flyer Jeremy Roenick scored the game deciding goal in the shoot-out...Sarah Palin is becoming to hockey what Cindy McCain is to Nascar and Barack Obama could become for basketball. Man, I should run for president just so I can have better seats at sporting events. At least then I'd know who to vote for, myself obviously.

Nascar: So much for the record penalties, Brian Vickers was docked 150 driver points and crew chief Kevin Hamlin was fined $100,000 after the #83 Red Bull Toyota failed post race inspection on Sunday...Why would you take a date away from Martinsville which is unique and produces great racing and keep two dates at Fontana which is cookie cutter and poorly attended?...If you missed it, Carl Edwards was on the Dan Patrick Show. Click here for the interview.

Best of the Rest: Golfer Seve Ballesteros will undergo another operation on his brain tumor...Tiger Woods is almost certain he'll be playing in Masters.

Check this Out: Halloween is only a week away. So if you're still on the fence of who/what you want to dress up as, click here to see EW's suggestions.

It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's...Chase Utley's homerun?: World Series 2008 Update

Game 1 Recap:
Tampa Bay Rays v. Philadelphia Phillies
Chase Utley’s first inning homerun set the tone for the Phillies game 1 victory over the Rays, 3-2. Cole Hamels’ seven innings of two run ball allowed Philadelphia to overcome a paltry 0-for-13 with runners in scoring position and Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell’s combined 0-for-12 with seven strike outs. Carl Crawford hit a solo shot off of Hamels in the fourth, but overall, the Rays seemed a bit tight in their loss.
WP: Cole Hamels (1-0) LP: Scott Kazmir (0-1) S: Brad Lidge (1)
Phillies lead the Series: 1-0

Game 2
Rays Starter: James Shields
Phillies Starter: Brett Myers
Location: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, FL
Start Time: 8 PM/est on FOX

News&Notes: Thanks to Jason Bartlett, America can feast on a free taco at Taco Bell on Tuesday from 2 to 6 PM...Philadelphia's weather is not looking too pleasant for game 3...After watching Fox's exhilarating description of the catwalk rules, I don't know why there is such a push to get a new Stadium for the Rays...Apparently Jed Lowrie was fighting a wrist injury since May...The Red Sox will keep their entire coaching staff except first base coach Luis Alicea...The Dodgers are talking to Manny, but they'd prefer to sign him to a short term contract...The Mariners have hired Brewers' executive Jack Zduriencik as their new GM...Finally, congratulations to Albert Pujols on being named the Sporting News' Player of the Year and to CC Sabathia on being named Clutch Performer of the Year.
(Photo: Reuters)

Hump Day Hair

There maybe something in the water in Phoenix and judging by these hair disasters, I will only be drinking bottled my next time through.

Steve Nash is attempting Euro hair, but alas it’s not working out too well. It’s far too short in the front and his pin straight hair does not have enough body to make the mullet aspect respectable. My only solution would be to buzz it all off, Steve.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Robin Lopez’s hair is a frizzy mess. I’m thinking it’s probably because it’s too over processed from all the hair dye. No one’s hair is naturally that color. However the Beyonce blonde is actually very flattering for his skin tone, the fro...is not. You may need to start using more hair product than a head band.

(Photo: Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

I maybe just a tad bit jealous that Louis Amundson's hair has better body than mine and actually looks fuller in a ponytail, but the bottom line is, boys should not have better hair than girls. Cut it off and donate it to locks of love so a woman can benefit from all that prettiness. Plus a side swept bang my be a good call.

(Photos: AP)

I Love the 90s

Basketball: Kobe Bryant injured his right knee in the Lakers 102-98 victory over the Bobcats...What's up with the rise in staph infections, first Kellen Winslow (and six other Browns players) and now Memphis forward Rudy Gay. Get me far away from wherever this guys are hanging out...Sad news, former Celtics owner Harry Mangurian, Jr. has passed away at the age of 82.

College Football: JoePa will visit a doctor about his right leg and hip during Penn State's bye week. Far be it from me to be rude, especially with someone as beloved as Joe Paterno, but shouldn't this guy retire already?...Arrest = Suspension at East Carolina...After missing three field goals against Rutgers, UCONN is replacing its kicker Tony Ciaravino.

Football: Sorry Cowboys fans, Tony Romo will not be playing on Sunday and could be out a little while longer...Apparently the Browns weren't too thrilled with comments TE Kellen Winslow made, so they're benching him for a game...Rodney Harrison' tore right thigh muscle might just keep him out of for the rest of the season, it might end his career...Larry Johnson should start to get a little more comfortable with the idea of missing games...Michael Vick plans to plead guilty to state dogfighting charges in hopes of being released into a halfway house.



Hockey: The Flames beat the Capital for the first time since 1999, 2-1. And they did it so acrobatically at that..Not that I need to tell him something he already knows, but Barry Melrose is a winner. Actually statistically speakings, he's a winner for the first time since 1995, but with a hair like his, he's a winner in my book everyday!...The Sabres remain unbeaten after Thomas Vanek scored the decisive shootout goal in their 3-2 defeat of the Bruins...Wings defenceman Andreas Lilja has undergone an appendectomy but could be back by Friday. Way to rally!...The Toronto Maple Leafs are not too thrilled with the prospect of adding a second NHL team to their city.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: Click here for entry lists for this weekend's races in Atlanta...Team Red Bull could be facing record penalties for shaving weight at Martinsville.

Best of the Rest: The LA Galaxy may lend David Beckham to AC Milan...Track coach Trevor Graham was sentenced to one year of home confinement for lying to federal investigators. What do I always say kids, don't play around with the government!

Check this out: A taser should never be used "for fun." Click here for the video.

I know you'll all be watching the World Series tonight, but don't forget to DVR Pushing Daisies on ABC at 8 PM/est. It's probably the best show you're not watching and it needs a heck of a lot more viewers to make ABC keep it around. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. Click here watch past episodes!

Another crappy championship series for some New York area fans

The thing about having eight professional sports teams in one media market means there are lots of fan combinations. But if you live around the New York area, you know some teams tend to go together. Like many New York Giants fans tend to be New York Yankees fans and also New York Rangers fans and probably New York Knicks fans. And many New York Jets fans happen to be New York Mets fans who then might also like the New York Islanders and then it starts to get a bit murky. The reasoning behind affiliations vary, from liking the more long standing teams like the Giants, Yankees and Rangers who have all be around for at least 80 years. Many Jets/Mets/Islanders fans live on Long Island where the Jets held a practice facility, the Islanders play and the Mets are the easiest baseball team to visit. Then there are the Devils and Nets fans that kind of buck the system, but these are generalities and I bet this comments section can be filled with the various combinations of fanhood (which you are more than welcome to share.) I myself buck pretty much every system falling into the Giants/Rangers/Nets/Braves category, but that’s a long story.

The point is there is a large group of people who must be rolling their eyes at the fact that the Phillies and Rays are hitting the World Series this year, especially coming on the heels of a Super Bowl that featured the Giants and Patriots. These would be the Mets/Jets fans and while I know it’s nowhere near as hard as watching your in town rival take on your division rival in the Super Bowl, it will be hard to watch your division rival Phillies take on the Rays in game 1. Mainly because the guy pitching is Scott Kazmir who the Mets dealt to the Rays for Victor Zambrano. (Sorry for the early morning binge and purge session, Mets fans.) But before you go running towards the nearest bridge to jump off of, take solace in knowing that there’s another group of fans, a group that just so happens to root for a team that you may hate more than the Phillies that may not be so happy with the pairing as well. Although, I bet Yankees fans are way more excited it’s not Boston again, so maybe I’ll take that back. Still you may not want to jump off that bridge!

Down to Two: World Series 2008 Preview

Who would have thunk it, the Rays and the Phillies in the World Series. (Well, if you were me, you would have predicted at least one of these teams in here. I clearly underestimated the power that is Cole Hamel’s hair.) Where this match up may lack cache, considering neither team is from say Boston or LA, it certainly won’t lack in competitiveness. Both teams pack strong starting pitching, dependable bullpens, muscular lineups including the likes of Ryan Howard and Chase Utley for the Phils and Evan Longoria and B.J. Upton for the Rays and lots of speed on the basepaths. Add the fact that both ballparks are launching pads for hitters and no lead is safe.

With such robust starting pitching and all-star caliber players, it may come down to which lineup came produce more depth, especially if Jimmy Rollins continues to be lackluster at the plate and Evan Longoria hits a rough patch, but more importantly, which bullpen can remain rock solid. David Price proved to be a game saver for the Rays in game 7 of the ALCS, but he’s still young and inexperienced and will be matching up against Brad Lidge, who’s only failed save came in the All-Star game (which I witnessed - sorry had to throw that in). It would be hard to count either team out, but the almost week layoff for the Phillies could certainly be a disadvantage in some ways, but it also allowed them to set their starting rotation perfectly. The Rays on the other hand should not fall into the trap of basking too long in Sunday’s victory. A game 1 victory has become a near perfect indicator for the eventual World Series winner, so get ready kids because the action is just about to start.

Game 1

Tampa Bay Rays v. Philadelphia Phillies
Rays Starter: Scott Kazmir
Phillies Starter: Cole Hamels
Game Time: 8 PM/est on Fox

News&Notes: Games 1 and 2 (and 6 and 7 if necessary) will require Philadelphia to play under American League rules, but Charlie Manuel isn't ready to reveal just who will be the Phillies' DH. I'd go with Pat Burrell, since they take him out in the seventh for a defensive replacement anyway, but indicators are pointing towards Chris Coste and Matt Stairs...Congratulations to Evan Longoria and Geovany Soto for being named the Sporting News' Rookies of the Year...Did I mention this Joba Chamberlain DUI story has gotten so much better?...So if anyone was wondering what I wanted for my birthday next year, it would probably be tickets to the Yankees/Cubs exibition games at the New Yankee Stadium in 2009. Just throwing it out there...Get well wishes go out to Nationals GM Jim Bowden, who recently underwent skin cancer surgery...Jose Canseco says he's sorry for naming names, so you can stop with the death threats already, Mark...And finally, I'm not sure how I will cope with this, following the death of Skip Caray over the summer, Pete Van Wieren has announced he will retire. Too bad, those are like the voices of my childhood.

(Photo: Reuters/AP)

best photo you'll see all day

It maybe old, but it's still awesome.

(photo: AP)

homecoming, sort of

Baseball: Odds makers are putting their money on the Rays to win the World Series...Speaking of the Rays, over 13 million people tuned in to see Tampa beat the Red Sox and clinch a spot in the Series....The Cardinals have bought out Mark Mulder's option ending his tenure with the club...The Dodgers declined a $5.5 million option on shortstop Angel Berroa...The Cubs have given GM Jim Hendry a four year extension...Curtis Granderson will visit China as a Major League Baseball ambassador...Finally, Congrats to Cliff Lee and Tim Lincecum on being named Sporting News Pitchers of the Year.

Basketball: Jazz guard Deron Williams will be out for at least two weeks with a sprained ankle...Meanwhile Clippers guard Baron Davis could be healthy enough to play opening night...The Boston Celtics have dropped Darius Miles...Dwight Howard notched 29 points and 11 rebounds as the Magic beat the Hawks, 109-103.

College Football: Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow thinks Texas QB Colt McCoy is a front runner for this year's Heisman...Former Virginia Tech QB Marcus Vick has pleaded guilty to DUI and other charges. Watch out Marcus, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: The Pats pounded the Broncos, 41-7...New England placed RB Laurence Maroney on IR...The 49ers fired coach Mike Nolan a week earlier than previously reported. He'll be replaced by Mike Singletary...Jets personal seat licenses are up to $65,ooo in an online auction. There are a lot of things I could do with $65K, buying Jets season tickets would not be part of that equation...Is the Chief's Larry Johnson trying to be Pacman 2.0?



Hockey: Mike Modano scored the game winner for the Stars as they edged the Rangers, 2-1...Evgeni Malkin's goal in round five gave the Penguins a 2-1 victory over the Bruins...The Canadiens picked up their fifth straight win after beating the Panthers, 3-1...A broken finger will keep Devils center Bobby Holik out for three to four weeks...The NHL is thinking about adding a second franchise in Toronto. Isn't that a little bit of overkill?
(photo: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Nascar: Cale Yarborough's three straight Cup titles could be matched very soon. However, Yarborough won it over a 36 race season and not a 10 race shoot-out, because let's be honest, Jimmie Johnson would only have one championship if the old format exsisted. And yes, I'm still bitter about this crappy Chase!...Tony Stewart's time with Joe Gibbs Racing is winding down. I'm hoping for tears at Homestead.

Best of the Rest: ProElite has closed its doors...Tiger Woods returned to Torrey Pines as a caddie. I hope he got a good tip.

Check this out: I know every Tuesday I always make this plea, but please, please, please, please, check out Privileged on the CW at 9 PM/est. Honestly, what else is on! Click here if you've missed any episodes.

Evil is multiplying

Two of the poorest most underfunded teams in the NFL and MLB are teaming up. And no, it’s not the Marlins and Chiefs, it’s the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys. The new venture, Legends Hospitality Management, LLC, will manage merchandise and concessions at both team’s new facilities next season, with hopes of expanding across professional sports. Come next year, you’ll be treated to some of the most overpriced food and merchandise one can purchase, because frankly someone’s got to pay for CC Sabathia or A.J. Burnett’s salary. So save up those pennies now, because hot dogs and beer are not going to be cheap!
(Photo: Reuters; Source)

Battle of the Lundqvists

It may not have the cache that Manning Bowl did a few years back, but the Lundqvist brothers will face off tonight at MSG as the Rangers take on the Dallas Stars. Here’s a funny interview of the boys from I’m guessing two years ago:



And as an added bonus, with the Stars comes Sean Avery. It should be interesting to see how the fans react to Avery’s first visit to MSG since signing with the Stars in the off season. Seriously, how can you boo someone who lacerated a spleen for you?

Power Outage

Basketball: The Clippers were able to defeat FC Barcelona, 114-109...Jazz guard Deron Williams sprained his ankle during Saturday's game against the Bulls...In other injury news, the Cavs Darnell Jackson will be out indefinitely with a fractured wrist...Speaking of the Cavs, guard Delonte West is thanking his new medication and therapy for bringing him back to 100%.

College Basketball: UNC-Ashville's center Kenny George has reportedly had part of his right foot amputated. At 7-7, George is the nation's tallest college basketball player.


College Football: Texas remains #1...Georgia has suspended Brandon Wood after he got a DUI. Watch out Brandon, because the popo are on your tail!


Football: Did Brett Favre sabatoge the Packers?...Kellen Winslow acknowledged he was suffering from a staph infection...The Titans remain undefeated, pounding the Chiefs, 34-10...The Cowboys however, are so not, after they lost their third game in the last four, 34-14 to the RAMS!...To add insult to injury, S Roy Williams will miss the rest of the season with a broken arm...But Wade Phillips' job is safe...for now...The Bills bested the Chargers, 23-14 in a Stadium with no power...Double Whammy, the Saints got demolished by the Panthers, 30-7...And RB Reggie Bush will undergo knee surgery preventing him from playing in London...For the rest of this weekend's scores. click here...Retired NFL players are suing Madden.



Hockey: All Flyers fans take note: They are moving their October 25th game against the New Jersey Devils to 4 PM, as to avoid any conflict with the Phillies who will be playing across the parking lot in the World Series...The Canes put a hurting on the slumping Ducks, 3-1...Sidney Crosby continues to make me feel old and unaccomplished scoring his 100th goal and registering his 200th assist in the Penguinis 4-1 win over the Maple Leafs...New coach Joel Quenneville finally got his first win as the Hawks edged the Canucks, 4-2...Blue Jackets center Michael Peca received a reduced suspension of five games without pay for making contact with an official.



Nascar: Jimmie Johnson continues to own Martinsville, collecting another victory this weekend and extending his points lead to 149...Click here for updated standings...Roush Fenway Racing will remain driving Fords for the next five years...Sad news, Nascar official Steve Lawson was found dead in his hotel room on Sunday. He was 51.
(Photo: Nascar.com)

Check this out: Sad news, Richard Blackwell has passed away at the age of 86. No one will ever dig at a person's fashion diasters so eloquently as Mr. Blackwell.