It has mentioned numerous times over the past few weeks that Penguins star Sidney Crosby suffered another concussion and could miss the rest of the season.
In my mind, Crosby missing the rest of the season is the best possible scenario for the NHL. While ratings and revenue may dip in his absence, Crosby is the face of the NHL. There are other players such as Alexander Ovechkin and Steven Stamkos who are great players in their own right, but no one else in the league has the combination of talent and marketability that Crosby has. Crosby and his image were used to market the Winter Classic between the Penguins and Capitals this season as well as other outlets to help popularize the NHL.
If Crosby were to rush back into game form before the effects of the concussion subside, he could damage further his chances of returning to his regular level of play on the ice. This would cause the NHL to lose their main ticket attraction and cause attendance to slip. While the NHL will continue to be a healthy organization financially, there is nothing but benefit to come from a healthy Crosby, not only for the league but for the Penguins as well.
Crosby has expressed his displeasure with not being able to play hockey due to his injury, but he should realize that time off from the game will only benefit him later in his career. I believe that while Crosby might not return to the incredible level of play that he showcased prior to his concussions, when he returns he will regain his status as an NHL superstar. For now, the NHL will rely on the other talented players who are present around the league until Crosby is cleared to play again.
While the Penguins' offense has sputtered in the absence of not only Crosby, but also Evgeni Malkin and Mark Letestu as well, other players such as Chris Kunitz and Kris Letang should be able to provide some scoring.
For Crosby, he will have many more seasons to play rather than attempt to come back and play in 2010-11. The NHL and the Penguins will all benefit from a healthy #87.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
The Greatest Rivalry In Sports
With apologies to fans of the Red Sox and Yankees, as well as fans of the Celtics and Lakers, the greatest rivalry in sports occurs twice per year in North Carolina. These two teams typically meet in February, and again in March, driving eight miles to reach their destination. In battles that usually play a large role in determining the ACC regular-season champion, the Duke Blue Devils and North Carolina Tar Heels duel in extremely heated competition.
These teams have met since 1920, and have had countless memorable games throughout the history of the rivalry. These games include Michael Jordan's final home game for North Carolina on March 3, 1984, which resulted in a double-overtime victory for the Tar Heels and both regular season matchups in 2005, in which the teams split the series by a combined margin of three points.
The proximity of the two universites adds to the allure of the rivalry. With the two schools located just eight miles from one another, there are typically fierce recruiting battles between the schools. This intensity spills over onto the court, creating hatred for the rival school. Some of the greatest players in college basketball history, and one player who is arguably the greatest man to ever play the game of basketball, have played in this rivalry. The top two players on the ACC all-time scoring list played at North Carolina or Duke, with North Carolina's Tyler Hansbrough passing Duke's J.J. Redick for the record. Also, one Michael Jordan donned Carolina blue to take on Duke from 1982-84. Some other great players who dueled in the "Battle of Tobacco Road" include James Worthy (North Carolina), Vince Carter (North Carolina), Christian Laettner (Duke), and Bobby Hurley (Duke). These players each had a role of contributing to the history of the rivalry from their time spent immersed in it.
Both universities have experienced great success on the basketball court, as both universities rank in the top 5 all-time in many statistical categories including, ACC tournament championships (Duke 18, 1st, North Carolina 17, 2nd), and Final Four appearances (North Carolina 18, 1st, Duke 15, 3rd). The success that these teams have typically results in at least one team holding a top-ten ranking entering the games.
North Carolina and Duke will meet tonight for the 230th time in their respective histories, and with the tenacity of this rivalry, another memorable contest could unfold before our eyes.
Sources: espn.com, ncaa.org
These teams have met since 1920, and have had countless memorable games throughout the history of the rivalry. These games include Michael Jordan's final home game for North Carolina on March 3, 1984, which resulted in a double-overtime victory for the Tar Heels and both regular season matchups in 2005, in which the teams split the series by a combined margin of three points.
The proximity of the two universites adds to the allure of the rivalry. With the two schools located just eight miles from one another, there are typically fierce recruiting battles between the schools. This intensity spills over onto the court, creating hatred for the rival school. Some of the greatest players in college basketball history, and one player who is arguably the greatest man to ever play the game of basketball, have played in this rivalry. The top two players on the ACC all-time scoring list played at North Carolina or Duke, with North Carolina's Tyler Hansbrough passing Duke's J.J. Redick for the record. Also, one Michael Jordan donned Carolina blue to take on Duke from 1982-84. Some other great players who dueled in the "Battle of Tobacco Road" include James Worthy (North Carolina), Vince Carter (North Carolina), Christian Laettner (Duke), and Bobby Hurley (Duke). These players each had a role of contributing to the history of the rivalry from their time spent immersed in it.
Both universities have experienced great success on the basketball court, as both universities rank in the top 5 all-time in many statistical categories including, ACC tournament championships (Duke 18, 1st, North Carolina 17, 2nd), and Final Four appearances (North Carolina 18, 1st, Duke 15, 3rd). The success that these teams have typically results in at least one team holding a top-ten ranking entering the games.
North Carolina and Duke will meet tonight for the 230th time in their respective histories, and with the tenacity of this rivalry, another memorable contest could unfold before our eyes.
Sources: espn.com, ncaa.org
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Advantages of an NFL Lockout
Rumors are swirling that the NFL may go into a lockout for part of, if not the entire 2011 season. While baseball is considered America's pastime, it is clear to see that pro football has surpassed baseball as the most-watched sport. But, what would happen if the NFL is forced to play a partial schedule, or at worst, no schedule next season? There are a few major advantages to an NFL-less 2011 sports year.
1. The rookie pay-scale could be changed
While the NFL is an extremely lucrative organization, it is odd that a rookie who has never played a down of professional football would be paid more than a player who has proven themselves to be a consistent performer. I would rather have a consistent 1,000-yard receiver or 4,000-yard passer who has proven that they can perform in the clutch over an unproven rookie who may or may not become a star player. The pay salary for rookies should reflect the uncertainty factor rather than the hype surrounding a certain player that they may become the next Peyton Manning or Dan Marino.Nearly every year, a new salary record among rookies is set, which reflects the growing success of the NFL, but also the suspense and "what-if" that a player could become great. For every great player, there is a player who received hype and comparisons to legends who came up short of those expectations.
2. Baseball ratings in September and October could rise
Many times, unless a favorite team is involved, fans of football and baseball have switched their focus to the football season by September. If the NFL was unavailable, more fans may pay attention to late-season baseball rather than stop watching sports until the basketball and hockey seasons. This added intrigue would boost ratings for the MLB and help the fact that the World Series has had low viewer ratings recently.
Although many fans would hate to see news of an lockout for the 2011 NFL season flash across their screens, the sports world would not be completely silenced if that happened. There would be other sports available if the NFL were to fall into a lockout and cancel the 2011 season.
1. The rookie pay-scale could be changed
While the NFL is an extremely lucrative organization, it is odd that a rookie who has never played a down of professional football would be paid more than a player who has proven themselves to be a consistent performer. I would rather have a consistent 1,000-yard receiver or 4,000-yard passer who has proven that they can perform in the clutch over an unproven rookie who may or may not become a star player. The pay salary for rookies should reflect the uncertainty factor rather than the hype surrounding a certain player that they may become the next Peyton Manning or Dan Marino.Nearly every year, a new salary record among rookies is set, which reflects the growing success of the NFL, but also the suspense and "what-if" that a player could become great. For every great player, there is a player who received hype and comparisons to legends who came up short of those expectations.
2. Baseball ratings in September and October could rise
Many times, unless a favorite team is involved, fans of football and baseball have switched their focus to the football season by September. If the NFL was unavailable, more fans may pay attention to late-season baseball rather than stop watching sports until the basketball and hockey seasons. This added intrigue would boost ratings for the MLB and help the fact that the World Series has had low viewer ratings recently.
Although many fans would hate to see news of an lockout for the 2011 NFL season flash across their screens, the sports world would not be completely silenced if that happened. There would be other sports available if the NFL were to fall into a lockout and cancel the 2011 season.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Top Five Impact Players for Super Bowl 45: #1
It seems like just yesterday that a certain quarterback from Cal waited for seemingly forever for his name to be called on draft day. After he was drafted, he was seen as the eventual future of the Packers when their current quarterback decided to retire. Fast forward to 2010, and Aaron Rodgers has solidified his position as a top-5 quarterback in the NFL.
#1 Aaron Rodgers
Since taking over for Brett Favre for the 2008 season, Rodgers has been a stellar leader since day one. In three short seasons as the starter, Rodgers has been able to lead his team to the Super Bowl. Rodgers possesses the talent and the supporting cast to help bring Green Bay its first Super Bowl title since 1997. Possessing a strong and accurate arm and the mobility to escape the vaunted Steelers front seven, and the occasional Troy Polamalu blitz, Rodgers will easily pass up and down the field tomorrow while neutralizing the Steelers defense. If Greg Jennings faces double coverage, Rodgers could easily turn to Donald Driver or Jordy Nelson to produce. The Packers may run the ball early in the game to open up the passing game, but it will be an aerial attack for much of the game.
Prediction: 325 passing yards, 3 passing touchdowns, 1 interception, Super Bowl MVP
#1 Aaron Rodgers
Since taking over for Brett Favre for the 2008 season, Rodgers has been a stellar leader since day one. In three short seasons as the starter, Rodgers has been able to lead his team to the Super Bowl. Rodgers possesses the talent and the supporting cast to help bring Green Bay its first Super Bowl title since 1997. Possessing a strong and accurate arm and the mobility to escape the vaunted Steelers front seven, and the occasional Troy Polamalu blitz, Rodgers will easily pass up and down the field tomorrow while neutralizing the Steelers defense. If Greg Jennings faces double coverage, Rodgers could easily turn to Donald Driver or Jordy Nelson to produce. The Packers may run the ball early in the game to open up the passing game, but it will be an aerial attack for much of the game.
Prediction: 325 passing yards, 3 passing touchdowns, 1 interception, Super Bowl MVP
Top Five Impact Players for Super Bowl 45: #2
Although the Steelers are the team in this matchup that is most well-known for their defensive prowess, the Packers have a linebacker who is quickly turning Green Bay into an excellent defensive team.
#2 Clay Matthews
In his two seasons since being drafted by the Packers out of USC, Matthews has developed a reputation for being fearless player who frequently wreaks havoc on opposing quarterbacks. In fact, Matthews has registered 24 sacks in two seasons in the NFL. This season, Matthews has transformed himself from a very good linebacker to one of the very best in the league. His skill level along with his fearless nature will cause trouble for offensive linemen attempting to block Matthews. The constant pressure that Matthews will apply will cause Ben Roethlisberger to commit mistakes. Expect Matthews' performance of defense to play a large role in whether the Packers are victorious on Sunday.
Prediction: 8 tackles, 2 sacks for Matthews
#2 Clay Matthews
In his two seasons since being drafted by the Packers out of USC, Matthews has developed a reputation for being fearless player who frequently wreaks havoc on opposing quarterbacks. In fact, Matthews has registered 24 sacks in two seasons in the NFL. This season, Matthews has transformed himself from a very good linebacker to one of the very best in the league. His skill level along with his fearless nature will cause trouble for offensive linemen attempting to block Matthews. The constant pressure that Matthews will apply will cause Ben Roethlisberger to commit mistakes. Expect Matthews' performance of defense to play a large role in whether the Packers are victorious on Sunday.
Prediction: 8 tackles, 2 sacks for Matthews
Top Five Impact Players for Super Bowl 45: #3
In order to be successful, every team needs a leader at quarterback to drive the team to success. With that said, here is Number 3 on the countdown.
#3 Ben Roethlisberger
Despite the off-the-field issues that have plauged Roethlisberger over the last few years, he is a top ten NFL quarterback when he is playing well. Roethlisberger has proven that he can handle the biggest stage in sports as he has two Super Bowl victories under his belt. With receivers such as Mike Wallace, Hines Ward, and Emmanuel Sanders, Roethlisberger has the weapons at his disposal to shred an opposing defense. He also has the mobility to escape the pass rush if needed. The Packers defense will force a few turnovers but expect Roethlisberger to have a solid game despite a difficult Packers defense.
Prediction: 230 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, 2 interceptions
#3 Ben Roethlisberger
Despite the off-the-field issues that have plauged Roethlisberger over the last few years, he is a top ten NFL quarterback when he is playing well. Roethlisberger has proven that he can handle the biggest stage in sports as he has two Super Bowl victories under his belt. With receivers such as Mike Wallace, Hines Ward, and Emmanuel Sanders, Roethlisberger has the weapons at his disposal to shred an opposing defense. He also has the mobility to escape the pass rush if needed. The Packers defense will force a few turnovers but expect Roethlisberger to have a solid game despite a difficult Packers defense.
Prediction: 230 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, 2 interceptions
Top 5 Impact Players for Super Bowl 45: #4
Although later than I had hoped, the countdown continues with #4 on the list.
#4 Greg Jennings
The best way for a team to counter the superb Steelers defense is by passing the ball. When teams have defeated the Steelers, they have done so by depending largely on the downfield passing game. In all likelihood the Packers will employ that strategy. Their threat for the downfield passing game is wide receiver Greg Jennings. If quarterback Aaron Rodgers can get the ball in #85's hands early and often, the Packers will have a great chance to prevent the Steelers from winning their seventh Super Bowl. Expect Jennings to have a great game regardless of the overall success of the Packers offense tomorrow.
Predcition: 80 receiving yards and 1 receiving touchdown
#4 Greg Jennings
The best way for a team to counter the superb Steelers defense is by passing the ball. When teams have defeated the Steelers, they have done so by depending largely on the downfield passing game. In all likelihood the Packers will employ that strategy. Their threat for the downfield passing game is wide receiver Greg Jennings. If quarterback Aaron Rodgers can get the ball in #85's hands early and often, the Packers will have a great chance to prevent the Steelers from winning their seventh Super Bowl. Expect Jennings to have a great game regardless of the overall success of the Packers offense tomorrow.
Predcition: 80 receiving yards and 1 receiving touchdown
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Top 5 Impact Players for Super Bowl 45
In every game, there are players that have the ability to cause a large impact on the outcome of the game. Starting today until Saturday, I will countdown the top five players likely to have the biggest impact in Super Bowl 45. These could be offensive or defensive players, Packers or Steelers. Now on to the start of the countdown.
#5: Rashard Mendenhall
For much of the Steelers history, their offense has been based on a run-first mentality. The tendency to play "smashmouth football" was helped by all-time great running backs who donned the black and gold such as Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis. After being drafted out of Illinois, Mendenhall has quickly become the feature back in the Steel City. Mendenhall has the opportunity to etch his name into Steelers lore with a stellar performance on Sunday. Despite the fact that running the ball will not be a surprise to anyone, I expect Mendenhall to still deliver a solid performance. Regardless of whether or not, the Steelers hoist the Lombardi Trophy for the seventh time on Sunday, Mendenhall will be crucial to their gameplan against a stifling Packers defense.
Prediction: 75 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown
Check back tomorrow for the #4 player in the countdown.
#5: Rashard Mendenhall
For much of the Steelers history, their offense has been based on a run-first mentality. The tendency to play "smashmouth football" was helped by all-time great running backs who donned the black and gold such as Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis. After being drafted out of Illinois, Mendenhall has quickly become the feature back in the Steel City. Mendenhall has the opportunity to etch his name into Steelers lore with a stellar performance on Sunday. Despite the fact that running the ball will not be a surprise to anyone, I expect Mendenhall to still deliver a solid performance. Regardless of whether or not, the Steelers hoist the Lombardi Trophy for the seventh time on Sunday, Mendenhall will be crucial to their gameplan against a stifling Packers defense.
Prediction: 75 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown
Check back tomorrow for the #4 player in the countdown.
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