The Hot Route

It's Over

2008-03-17T16:05:00.005-04:00

Have a good life

Okay, so the only reason I'm actually writing this is because I need some kind of closure to it. This is the last post for The Hot Route. It's been fun, and I want to thank anyone who read it, I really appreciate it. But I've moved on and it's time to put my first blog to rest - officially.

If you want to keep up with me, please visit my new blog at survivingmyselfdotwordpressdotcom.

I did that thing with the "dot" to keep spam away from my new site, because although I do enjoy getting emails from Russian brides who are "very excite to meet me," I'd like to keep it to a minimum.

And a couple last things...

The Steelers are better than your favorite NFL team.
The Pitt Panthers are better than your favorite college football and basketball team.
The Knicks suck so I can't say anything other than David Lee makes me happy.
Tiger is the best golfer of all time.
Federer is the best tennis player of all time.
College football will never be worth a damn until they implement a playoff system.
And....
Baseball still fucking sucks.

Peace!

MVP Race Comes Down to One

2008-02-29T14:26:00.004-05:00

The choice is clear

The end of the NBA season is fast approaching, and with that, the talk of MVP is becoming louder and louder. Generally, you'll get this discussion - that it boils down to 3 dudes - BronBron, Kobe and KG. What I don't hear enough is the name of the player who should be the MVP, but won't. This guy has elevated his team to the highest of the league, has outplayed the other players who are considered the best at his position, put up insane numbers the entire season and made his teammates better along the way. This man is Chris Paul, and he should be the NBA's MVP this year.

The only other player who is close is LeBron. No other player comes close to making more out of nothing than Paul. He's made Tyson Chandler a relevant player after years of wallowing in mediocrity in Chicago. Chandler's number have jumped to double digits in both points and rebounds because of Paul. And what about that guy no one's ever heard of - David West? Yes, the All-Satr David West. He's dropping career-high numbers as well because of how amazing Paul is as a player. Stojakovic? Who do you think gets him those open looks so he can be shooting an awesome 47% from three point land? Paul.

Paul needs to get some love from people. The Hornets are only one game back from the defending champs Spurs. The Hornets! No one saw that coming, and it's all because of Paul. Plus, I know you saw him torch Nash the other night. The Hornets have swept the Suns this season. Swept them! And the Suns are a team that people are saying can win it all. Better make room for the Hornets in that category, along with The Hot Route's Officially Approved MVP, Chris Paul.

Source: SI.com

Yao Ming Out for Season

2008-02-26T15:53:00.004-05:00

Down and out

Man, did I just curse the Rockets or what? Yao has just been declared officially done for the rest of the season, suffering his second major injury to his left foot in 3 years. Well, if you think I didn't have love for the Rockets before today, you can forget about it now. They're done. Mutombo in the middle, please. Dude hasn't been effective since he was a Sixer.

All I can think of is poor Yao. He's playing his best ball, the Rockets are feeling it and now this. Well, the race to the playoffs just got a little clearer. No way the Rockets make it in - unless McGrady finds his inner chi. But like I said yesterday, I wouldn't count on that happening.

Source: ESPN.com

Rockets Win 11th Straight

2008-02-25T15:02:00.004-05:00

Running on empty

The Rockets are finally looking like they aren't underachieving as they won their 11th straight game last night with the help of newly aquired Bobby Jackson. You know, even though this was their 11th straight, they've only played 4 teams during that stretch that currently have winning records, so I'm still not sold on the Rockets.

The Rockets are just one of those teams that should be better than they are. They have Yao playing his best ball yet, they have Battier - a great defender and locker room guy - and they have T-Mac - who depending on who you talk to, is still one of the best players in the league. They also brought in Adelman to be their coach, supposedly because they thought his free-flowing offense would work for Yao and company the way it worked for Divac's and the Kings back in the day.

Now the Rockets finally have something going for them, but I still don't buy them as a playoff threat. I don't think they could beat any of the other teams in the playoff hunt in the Western Conference.

Why is that? Well, I guess I have to say that I subscribe to the popular notion that T-Mac can't get it done in crunch time. I don't think he has the killer inside him, like BronBron and Kobe have. And because T-Mac doesn't have it, it makes this team hollow. Yao is their next (maybe first) best player and there's no way he'll ever have it. If Yao develops a killer instinct then I will buy season tickets to the Mets. That's how sure I am.

Without a soul, the Rockets are going to hang in the playoff race, maybe make it - and then fade away in the first - maybe second round. It's too bad. Now you know because I said that about the Mets Yao is going to go nuts over the remainder games and ESPN's going to be all, "Where did this new version of Yao come from???" Lets go Mets. Lets go Mets...

Source: ESPN.com

Cavs Make Last Minute Deal

2008-02-21T16:37:00.003-05:00

Making moves

I was waiting until the trade deadline passed today because I kind of felt like the Cavs might do something - and that they did. They got Ben Wallace, Joe Smith and a second round pick from the Bulls and Wally Szczerbiak and Delonte West from the Sonics. Damn! And all they gave up was Drew Gooden, Larry Hughes, Shannon Brown and Cedric Simmons. I have to say, it looks like the Cavs got a big boost to their roster and came away the victors in this one - but only if some things work out the right way for them.

First, Larry Hughes has to cool back down. Hughes had been having a horrible season, and then, all of sudden - he started scoring at will like the old Philly-version of himself. If Hughes continues to play well, the Cavs are going to wish they had him back. Second - Wally (hell no I'm not typing his last name again) has to fill-in for Hughes and knock down those open jumpers hand delivered by LeBron. And last, but most importantly, Wallace has to give a crap. He didn't care about the Bulls and you could tell - I'm sure the Cavs are gambling on the notion that putting Ben back on a playoff bound team will re-energize him. Oh, and I also love West, he's going to be a great addition to the Cavs lack of point guard depth.

If all those things work out, the Cavs are going to be sitting pretty when the playoffs come around. Really, putting any more talent around LeBron, who just dropped his second straight double-double last night, makes the Cavs that much more deadly. I bet you the entire Eastern Conference is pissed that this deal went through. And Lebron is very, very happy.

Source: ESPN.com

Kidd to Mavs Official

2008-02-19T15:46:00.003-05:00

Nice

The trade finally went through. The Mavs got their man and the Nets got Devin Harris, about 40 other players, Keith Van Horn and 2 dead guys. Word from NBA Insider Marc Stein is that the dead guys were once serious ballers, so I'll keep you posted about their integration into the Nets lineup.

So there you have it Dallas fans. This is basically it for you. If you don't win the title in the next year or so, this trade will not have been worth it. If you do, well, it's all good then, right?

This trade reminds me of the Heat getting Shaq a couple seasons ago. They sold their collective soul to finally get that ring, and right after that went into a hole as a franchise. Dwayne Wade now may be Dirk Nowitzki in three seasons. We shall see.

Like I said a couple days ago, I like this trade. Did Dallas give up a little too much? Well, yes, but like I just said, if Kidd gets the Mavs that ring then it was all worth it. Isn't playing the game about winning it all? So if Kidd accomplishes that, then who the hell cares how good Harris is going to be one day?

I love how everyone is saying how great Harris is, by the way. All this buzz about him being just as good as Kidd is BS. Just wait and see. Kidd didn't care about the Nets. Everyone who knows anything can tell you that. But he was still having a quality year, just because he's so damn good, that he can not give a crap and still drop sick dimes past awestruck opponents. Now he's playing along side Nowitzki and Josh Howard, he's playing for a title contender and on top of all of that - everyone is hating on him. Kidd is going to play very well and make people wonder why they thought this trade was bad. I promise you that.

I also wanted to remind everyone that I was a fan of the Shaq trade too. Before the Sports Guy read my post and decided to get on board.

Respect The Hot Route!

Source: The Dallas Morning News, ESPN.com

Dwight Howard Wins Dunk Contest

2008-02-18T13:19:00.003-05:00

More fun to come

The dunk contest is officially back. Dwight Howard won the contest yesterday by pulling off some of the most creative and thunderous dunks in the history of the contest. When he revealed the Superman shirt and tied on the cape - I lost my mind. It was crazy. Add this to the list of reasons to love Howard. He (along with Gerald Green, whose cupcake dunk was ridiculous as well) has brought back the contest that makes the NBA All Star break/game fun to watch. And for those of you out there that still have some hate for the NBA - time to tune in my friends. The rest of the season holds many story lines, ones that if you aren't a fan of the NBA, will make you one by the time playoffs come around. Let's check out some of the things to look for in the second half of the season:

Can LeBron do it again? Can he carry his talent-lacking team on his back all the way to the Championship?
Will the Magic make noise in the playoffs? How much can Howard impose his will on the games that matter?
How will Kidd influence Dallas' play? (I'm assuming this trade is going through.)
Will Shaq be the difference in Phoenix? Will he finally get Nash that elusive first ring?
How will Kobe, Gasol and Bynum play together once they all get healthy? And will Bryant even make it through the season without reinjuring his thumb?
Are the Warriors going to run some team into the ground again, just like they did Dallas last season? Will Webber actually make plays for them?
Are the Pistons poised to win it all, or will they collapse internally?

If that's not enough for you to tune into the NBA for the rest of the season and the playoffs, there's really no hope for you. Seriously. Just go ahead and kill yourself. It'll be better that way.

Source: ESPN.com

Bryant has Torn Ligament in Finger

2008-02-15T10:56:00.004-05:00

Worthless appendage

Just when the Lakers were thinking everything is lovely, it was announced that Kobe Bryant has a torn ligament in his pinkie finger. Bryant said he's going to put off surgery, man up, and try and play through the pain.

I don't get this. There's no way he's going to be balling at 100% with that injury, so that won't help the team. I also would think that he's going to get hit at least a dozen more times on that finger, and then what? Then he'd have to get the surgery anyway - and what if the Lakers are right on the verge of the playoffs, or even worse, what if it happens in the playoffs? I understand Kobe is trying to keep the Lakers afloat while awaiting the return from all the injured players (most importantly Bynum, but also Mihm and Ariza), but he should have the surgery right now. Then, when he returns from the surgery he can gel with all the other walking wounded and make the playoff push.

By the way, who knew that a pinkie finger could cause this much damage to a professional athlete? When I heard this, I looked down at my pinkie finger, flexed it and thought, "Man I could lose this whole finger, and I'd be straight." What do you even use your pinkie for anyway? Playing the flute? Unless Kobe is intensely dedicated to the woodwind family, he should get the surgery.

Source: SI.com

Kidd, Mavs Close on Deal

2008-02-13T16:20:00.004-05:00

A couple things

Sorry I haven't been posting regularly, but here's some quick hit thoughts on the world that I just had to get out.

It looks like Jason Kidd is going to be moving to the Lone Star State. It's funny that this is happening after all the heavy denying that Cuban had been doing, I mean, I understand that he doesn't want to talk about it, so he just flatly denies it, but reporters are going to ask anyway so you might as well just come straight with it. So what do you think? Is Kidd the final piece to the puzzle for the Mavs? That toughness that they lacked - has that been solved with the addition of Kidd? I'm not totally sure, but it seems like it's going to be a lot tougher to play the Mavs now than before. Kidd is tough, and he'll be on Dirk when he starts to crumble like last year. And yeah, Kidd seems kind of puzzling because Harris was putting up similar numbers and is much younger, but Harris isn't J-Kidd. J-Kidd is something special, and since the Mavs had the chance, they had to do this deal. I like it, and I just bumped the Mavs up a couple notches in my NBA power rankings. No, I don't really have power rankings, those things are stupid. Yeah, I know, I read them anyway.

Clemens is guilty. There is no reason to continue this charade. How about our government getting back to things that matter - like the ever-sinking economy, Iraq, and Darfur - instead of worrying about the MLB and NFL. And people wonder why we get attacked by terrorists.

I don't care - I'm about to drop some NASCAR love. When I heard that Tony Stewart punched Kurt Busch, I loved it. That's gangsta! That's what NASCAR needs man! Keep punching your way to relevance NASCAR.

I've got a new blog survivingmyselfdotwordpressdotcom - so that's why the posting here has been a little spotty. It's just a blog about every day kinda stuff, so check it out if you have the time. I'm keeping The Hot Route (of course man! This is my baby!) but from now on I'm going to be posting my random crap over on the other blog.

Source: ESPN

Celtics Beat Spurs

2008-02-11T14:33:00.000-05:00

Already determined?

The Celtics beat the Spurs last night, even without Kevin Garnett. Granted, the Spurs were missing Tony Parker, but the Celtics impressed me last night, getting big efforts from Big Baby Davis and Rondo. So is this it? Does this mean the Celtics are going to win it all? Well, no, not really, but it's getting harder and harder not to think that they are going to.

When Davis is holding his own against The Big Fundamental, and Rondo is dropping 12 assists and grabbing 11 boards - things are looking good for the Celtics. I remember when I heard the Celtics got Davis, I told my friend at work who's a big Celtics fan, "That's a nice pick up by you, he's gonna be a contributor." Well, I look pretty smart right now don't I? Of course, I'm sure lots of people knew Davis would be solid, but I'm pretending that I called it until I hear otherwise. And now you've got Rondo continuing his climb into being a great point guard, this Celtics team is downright scary.

I'm going to just go ahead and pronounce them my pick to win the East. I can't give the Cavs the nod until they find someone else to play well (consistently) other than Lebronius. And I won't say that the Pistons will win it because the Pistons will end up bickering and crying about the refs and other things that will lead to their collapse in the playoffs. I'm not ready to give the Celtics the title, not yet at least. Check back with me in about a month or so. I'll try and give you another money prediction like the Davis one. You're welcome in advance.

Source: NBA.com

Spagnuolo Stays with Giants

2008-02-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

The search goes on

The man most think is responsible for putting the New York Giants in position to pull off the Super Bowl upset, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, has decided to stay with the team. Spagnuolo is now one of the highest paid defensive coordinators in the NFL, signing on for a 3 year extension for about $2 million a year. Now that he is secured by the Giants, this marks yet another sad turn for the Redskins, who still have yet to hire a head coach. However, because they are the run by one of the worst owners in sports, they have already assigned defensive and offensive coordinators. All this adds up to just another drama-filled offseason for the Redskins, who always seem to dominate the headlines when it matters least. But because some of my boys are Redskins fans, I feel bad for them and the team. So, in an effort to help Dan Snyder and the Redskins, The Hot Route has compiled a list of 3 prime candidates (a thinker, a disciplinarian and a "just let 'em play" type) that I think would be great hires. Enjoy.

1) Johnny 5

The brainiac candidate. Does the phrase, "Need more input!" mean anything to you? Johnny 5 would be a tremendous addition to the Redskins because of his intense desire to learn everything. He'd scour the farthest reaches of the world for a new screen formation, he'd pick the brains of Buddhist monks for tips on maintaining focus throughout the season. Johnny 5 would never run out of ideas. Belichick wouldn't be able to hold Johnny 5's clipboard if he came into the NFL's head coaching ranks. Johnny 5 is alive and ready to lead the Skins to the promised land.

2) B.A. Baracus

The ultimate choice if Snyder decides to go the disciplinarian route. B.A. is an expert at kicking butt and asking questions later. Or maybe never even asking the questions - it's really up to him and his massive gold chains. B.A. would not take any lip from anyone, no matter how big or small the contract. Egos would be put in check on the double, out of pure fear of B.A.'s patented way of dealing with trouble makers - picking them up over his head and throwing them. Also, need I mention what "B.A." in B.A. Baracus stands for? "Bad Attitude" friends. Now that's a coach no player would mess with.

3) Jack Burton

This is the "players coach" candidate. He's a truck driver, so he's down to earth, but he also fought off henchmen that can, among other things, shoot lightning out of their hands, so he's got the ability to lead the Skins into battle. Burton will bring his "every man" approach to the game with his signature laid back approach to life. He won't stress the players with too many complex blitz packages and blocking schemes because he'll want them to rely on themselves and their talent, something all the players will love. Like Burton says, "It's all in the reflexes."

Snyder cannot lose by selecting any of the above Hot Route approved candidates. But don't hold out hope, this is the Redskins we're talking about. They probably have some big name candidate in mind that they think has the wisdom, leadership and charisma to lead them to the Super Bowl once again. Wait. When does Bush leave office again?

Source: NY Daily News

McNamee Submits Physical Evidence

2008-02-07T13:09:00.000-05:00

Okay...

Brian McNamee has submitted physical evidence against Roger Clemens, claiming that some gauze pads, needles and other items contain the link between Clemens and his use of steroids. Well, this all makes perfect sense to me. What kind of person doesn't keep items soaked with blood around his house? And dirty needles? I know when I'm feeling down in the dumps, the first thing I reach for is a used syringe, and when I can't find one, boy do I get mad!

Really, I don't even know what to make of this. I still think Clemens is guilty. No doubt in my mind. If Bonds never got the benefit of the doubt, neither does Clemens. But this is just beyond weird. What purpose would McNamee have in keeping this stuff from seven years ago??? Was he going to black mail Roger at some point? Doesn't seem like it, right? And if he has needles from Roger, does he have needles from Pettitte too? And if not, why? Maybe McNamee thought that at some point down the road, Clemens was going to get busted, and he'd keep the stuff just in case to get keep his butt out of jail. But if he had this stuff, why are we just hearing about it now? Why wouldn't he have told everyone he had evidence right off the top?

I keep trying to understand why this would happen and I can't come up with any answers. Can you? Please, if anyone has some insight into what the hell this is all about, share it in the comments, because this one has The Hot Route totally stumped. It's all just so strange. Either way, one thing is for sure - one of these guy's is going down. This drama just took a Jerry Springer-type turn, and the "Steve," the regulator of all the chaos, is the Feds.

Source: ESPN.com

Shaq to be Traded to Suns

2008-02-06T11:05:00.000-05:00

Everything is great

Barring a failed physical, Shaq will be traded to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks. The pending deal comes on the heels of Pau Gasol going to the Los Angeles Lakers, and seems to be, at least at first glance, a reactionary move short on logic. But when you think about it, this is just crazy enough to work!

The Suns are a team that has flirted with the championship in the last couple of years, only to fall short each time. And what has lead to these collapses (aside from a well placed hip check)? Well, it's the Suns' lack of defense. Shaq automatically fills this void. Shaq can also help the Suns with another sore spot - their lack of rebounding. And the biggest benefit that the Suns get from acquiring Shaq, is fixing their deteriorating team chemistry. We all know about Marion requesting a trade before the season - though to his credit he has been silent about that since - and we all know about how Stoudemire can sometimes be, well, a little baby. When The Big Aristotle comes to town, he has the chops to put Stoudemire in his place. Stoudemire will also be able to flourish playing in his natural power forward position. Of course all this is dependent on Shaq being healthy, but he'll receive a boost from leaving the Heat, and that will propel him to rededicate himself.

Now that I'm done with the rainbows and lollipops of this trade, I know many of you are waiting for me to address the biggest issue with this trade - Shaq's ability to fit in with the Phoenix offense. Here's my short answer - he doesn't have to fit in. That's right - he doesn't have to fit in, because Steve Nash is so good and the Suns' attack is so good, it won't matter if Shaq runs with the team. They will run with two to three players at a time, not five, so Shaq can huff down the floor at his own pace and receive a perfectly placed pass from Nash for an easy bucket.

Although most are seeing this trade as something that makes no sense, I see it as a great move for the Suns. Shaq will be reborn (once again), the Suns get some defensive help and they will dissolve some locker room issues. They will continue their high level of play, and maybe, just maybe, this will put them over the top this season. Rainbows? Check. Lollipops? Check.

Source: ESPN.com

Giants Stun Patriots

2008-02-04T10:25:00.000-05:00

Not so perfect after all

Way for me to abandon the Giants bandwagon one week too short.
This was an amazing game. I was going insane during that last quarter. If you didn't enjoy this game, there is something wrong with you. Really. Go to the doctors right now. If there's no appointments available, go to the hospital ER and tell them that you suck, hopefully they can do something.
If you know anybody who doesn't believe in karma, make them watch this game. It was the ultimate sports karma. The Pats cheat, they run up the score on opponents, they come into the Super Bowl full of themselves... and then they lose. It was like something out of a fairy tale.
18-1 Pats fans. 18-1.
All those wins, all those records, they mean nothing. Because when the Pats had to seal the deal, when they had to finally show everyone that they were the "best team ever," they got punched in the mouth by the New York Giants until they folded.
The Giants were clearly the more physical team last night. The Giants front four were bullying the Pats offensive line like little children all game long.
Conversation with my Mom after the game - Me: "Man, that was football karma huh?" Mom: "Yes, yes it was. Brady and the Patriots were just so arrogant the entire season!" When a Mom notices a teams arrogance, they are definitely full of themselves.
My girlfriend even dropped some hatin' on the Pats, saying, "Brady was all upset about the Giants saying they'd only score 17 points, well, they didn't even score 17!" That's a good woman I got myself.
Eli Manning willed the Giants to a win. When he pulled himself out of the grasp of 3 Pats defenders, then threw that bomb to Tyree, I saw the desire to win that every fan wants to see from their QB.
It's too bad a collective MVP couldn't be awarded as well to the Giants defense. They played lights out all night long. They sacked Brady 5 times! It was a source of pure joy for me to watch Brady all frustrated after getting dropped to the ground.
New York was alive last night with joy. Hearing drunken dudes yell, "Let's go Giants!" on the way home in the cab, I couldn't have been happier for the city and its fans.
The city is still alive this morning. On my way to the train, an elderly guy, must've been about 75, approached a younger guy at a corner bodega. The older guy was smiling ear to ear, and screamed, "How bout those Giants???" at the top of his lungs. My thoughts exactly.

Super Bowl Picks

2008-01-31T12:41:00.000-05:00

Like I said on Monday, today marks a big extravaganza here at The Hot Route. I collected 24 Super Bowl picks from some excellent blogs and included them below. The whole point of this was to collect the best of the best (kinda like Top Gun without the homoeroticism - not that there's anything wrong with that) blogs and their picks and put it in one special place: here. If this is your first time visiting The Hot Route, you have no idea what you've been missing. And if this isn't your first time, well, a big hello to my Mom and two brothers. Thanks so much to the bloggers who helped me out. Now on to my pick, followed by the collection of blogs that participated and their picks.

Making the pick

So it all comes down to this. Eli vs. Brady. Coughlin vs. Belichick. The entire sports nation vs. Pats fans. Let's be honest - practically everyone wants the Pats to lose this game. People loath the Pats. They hate Brady and his Stetson, and they hate Belichick and his cheating. But do any of the haters (that would be me) have the guts to pick the Gmen in the big game?

I've been championing the Giants throughout the playoffs. I picked them against the Bucs and the Cowboys and I knew they'd send Favre packing. I like the attitude the Giants have right now. Eli is relaxed, Plax is picking the win and Strahan is making everyone forget how he held out of camp before this season. And you already know my take on all the talk before the game - it doesn't matter at all. What does matter is the Gmen's ability to get to Brady. Last time they played the Giants only sacked Brady once. That's not going to cut it in this game. We all know how much better Belichick is when he faces teams the second time - he's going to be ready for the Giants rush attack - so the Giants need to have something special planned to rattle Brady. Or break his leg, either one.

I think the Giants will get to Brady more than last time, but I don't think it'll matter. The Pats are evil and they are doing their whole "business as usual" routine, trying to convince everyone that they are the best team ever. And as much as I hate them, maybe they are. The key for the Pats to win is to make sure Eli goes back to regular season Eli (league leader in interceptions) by getting him to throw passes like a 12 year-old, right into the arms of the Pats' defense.

I don't like the Pats, okay? I'm from Pittsburgh. They've crushed the Steelers' playoff chances more times than I care to recall, and this season they shut us up fairly easily. I don't like how they act like they're perfect and they have druggies (Rodney Harrison), cheaters (Belichick) and cry babies (Brady) on the team. But I've got to tell you, I have to abandon my Giants ship, and pick the Pats. Living in New York and not picking the Giants is like living in Green Bay and taking a crap on Brett Favre's steps, but I have to go with my gut. And aside from being filled with a tuna sandwich that I think went rancid, my gut is saying that the Pats win. Too much evil for anyone to overcome. God help us all. Pats 33 Giants 27.

---

As for these other bloggers' picks, surprisingly, they're pretty split. Check them out.

Straight Bangin' - Pats
Apply so much pressure on offensive and defensive *all game.*
We Are The Postmen - Pats
Because a banged up Tom Brady is still better than Eli Manning.
Deadspin - Pats
It's cute that everyone thinks the Giants have a chance.
The Sports Lounge - Giants
New York learned a lot playing these guys the first time, and are only playing better now. New England has been amazing, but they can't stay on top forever.
The Big Lead - Pats
Eli turns into a pumpkin, Patriots roll.
TrueHoop - Giants
The genius principle. No one remembers who anyone picks, essentially -- unless they pick a long underdog, then that guy is a genius. As football isn't even my sport, I can afford to gamble. So... New England has no shot.
Lion in Oil - Pats
Brady. Belichick. Moss. Just too many weapons.
East Coast Bias:
Brien - Pats. They haven't lost yet.
J-Red - Pats. Rematch? Hmm... Coughlin or Belichick? Yeah, Belichick.
Russell - Pats. Belichick will outsmart Eli, just like Peyton in 2003-04.
Jeremy - Pats. But not enough to cover the spread.
The Big Picture - Pats
There's a reason why the Patriots are undefeated.
Dan Shanoff - Pats
Let me paint an ideal picture: "Matt Cassel, MVP."
Why Don't We Get Drunk and Blog? - Giants
Gostkowski misses a tying field goal at the end of the game.
Pittsburgh Sports and Mini Ponies - Giants
Elisha's a Precious Moments Doll. Eli > Jon Kitna. God Approves.
Ghosts of Wayne Fontes:
Stan - Pats. Pats have won all three Super Bowls by exactly three points each.
Rupert - Giants. A) I hate the Patriots and B) Since Eli has been getting an a**load of media attention, people keep calling me Eli, because apparently I look sorta like him.
Mondesi's House - Giants
Just to see the look on Tiki Barber's face.
Cousins of Ron Mexico - Pats
Brady and Moss work better in warm weather. (I can see the t-shirt now).
Girls Gone Sports:
Mandy - Pats. There is no God.
Lauren - Giants. Our God is an Awesome God.
The Starting Five (Mizzo) - Pats
The Pats will pull it out in the end. Plax and Moss are both going to do their thing and get separation. Pats in an entertaining shootout.
Afraid of Ed Hochuli - Giants
10 game road win streak, Eli's confidence and team chemistry like that of the 2001 Patriots.
One More Dying Quail - Pats
Closer than expected. Giants play well, but the Pats prevail.
Posting and Toasting - Giants
Because Eli defeating Tom Brady is just so poetic.
Kissing Suzy Kolber:
Monday Morning Punter - Giants. Giants' front four causes too many problems for the Patriots. Unsilent Majority - Pats. Well, they are better than New York at almost every single position on and off the field.
Big Daddy Drew - Pats. No reason given.
Christmas Ape - Pats. The Giants can't hang long enough.
Flubby - No pick given. Greasy Great Great Grandpappy Punter in 1876: Sitting Bull's porous defense is no match for Custer's powerful ground game.
Stupid Sideline Reporters - Giants
Because Eli Manning is "unstoppable."
Sports Couch Potato - Giants
Giants defensive line and linebackers keep Brady off-kilter just enough to eke out the victory.
You Been Blinded - Pats
I was gonna take the Giants but Clay Davis said Sh******t, so give me the Patriots... But the Giants will cover.

Source: ESPN.com, YouTube.com

Brady Reacts to Burress' Comments

2008-01-31T11:26:00.000-05:00

Baby talk

Tom Brady took exception to Plaxico Burress' comments yesterday, remarking that he should give the Pats offense more credit than saying they'd only score 17 points. He then went on to talk about how he learned never to talk about his play or another opponent, and how they don't care what others say and blah, blah, blah. This is just the latest incident of showing how much the Pats, and Brady in particular, do care what people say. And this is just the latest incident that deepens my already burning hatred for the Pats and Brady.

The very fact that Brady reacted to Burress' comments puts him on a lower level than Burress. Burress was simply answering a stupid question about the game. Brady, who always acts like he's perfect and tries to sell everyone that he's perfect, shouldn't have reacted at all to Burress' comments if he really didn't care. That's what being a "golden boy" is all about. If Brady really is above those kind of things, he wouldn't have said anything about it. A simple, "I don't really have any comment on that" would've been sufficient.

But no, see, Brady is actually one huge baby. Remember when the Steelers Anthony Smith said they were going to win? Remember how Brady said "oh we don't play like that?" Well what did Brady do when he threw a touchdown against Smith? He ran over and started yelling at him, talking all sorts of trash. This is a guy who doesn't concern himself with what people say? No. Brady is a baby. He cannot handle, no matter how much the media and his teammates and his coach, try and sell you, anybody talking ill about him. The second a person does, Brady becomes all teary-eyed and starts acting a fool.

Brady is no saint. He is not a "golden boy." If he was, then nothing like Burress' or Smith's comments would affect him. He'd ignore the battle of words and let his play do the talking. But he doesn't do that. He's a big baby who thinks too much of himself, and this is just the latest event that has showed us that. C'mon Giants, someone break this dudes leg.

Source: ESPN.com

Burress Predicts Giants Victory

2008-01-30T11:19:00.000-05:00

Brilliant stuff

Mark this one down as a headline that shouldn't be a headline. Plaxico Burress, the Giants' star receiver, predicted that the Giants would win yesterday, even offering a final score of 23-17. This story is Exhibit A as to why a lot of bloggers hate the Mainstream Media. It is such a non-story it's laughable. This is what happened to Burress: He was asked by a reporter if he was, "ready to make history?" Burress said "yes." Then he said that the final score was going to be 23-17. Burress and Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce both repeated the same notion to reporters during media day yesterday, and that was - of course they thought they were going to win.

Now I ask you, what the hell is wrong with that? What are the Giants supposed to say? That the Pats will win? How about if Burress had said, "You know, I'm just here to drink a ton at the parties, maybe take some groupies back to hotel, and catch 2 balls on Sunday. I don't think we're gonna win! I'm gonna be hung over man!" If you're a Giants fan, don't you think you'd want your team to be thinking it's going to win, rather than lose? This just stupid. How do people get to be sports reporters? Is there any kind of test or anything? Can you just walk into the Times building, walk up to an editor and explain, "I like sports. And I can write bland articles on extremely bland subjects. I also play with Lincoln Logs." Then the editor looks you over once or twice, reiterates his love of Lincoln Logs, and gives you a press pass. Done. You're a reporter free to make crappy sports stories.

Burress predicting a final score is not a story. He is a New York Giant. He would like to win the game. That is commen sense, not a headline. And listen, this is coming from a blogger who doesn't have that extreme hate that a lot of bloggers do for the media. I would love to get a job at ESPN. I just haven't tried the Lincoln Logs reference yet.

Source: The New York Times, lincolnlogs.com

Kidd Makes it Official; Wants out of NJ

2008-01-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

Moving on

Jason Kidd finally made official what many NBA observers have known for some time now - he is not happy playing in New Jersey and he wants to play somewhere else. He told ESPN that he had given the "go-ahead" to his agent to pursue trades, and it appears the Nets are obliging the request. Well, it's good to see that someone reads The Hot Route. Like I said before, Kidd belongs somewhere else, somewhere where he doesn't have to play with uber-underachievers like Vince Carter. The only problem appears to be that becuase of Kidd's contract, he is going to be tough to trade. But while many people will bash Kidd for his shaky jumper and abrasive personality, I don't think anyone would say they wouldn't welcome him to their favorite team. I know I'd love to see him ballin' at the garden (did that rhyme? It kinda did, didn't it? Holla' at your boy Jigga! I'm available!).

Reportedly, one of the few teams that may be able to make a trade for Kidd is Cleveland. Can you imagine? Kidd and BronBron on the court at the same time? Move over Celtics - and for that matter move over Hornets - if that trade happened the Cavs would instantly be favorites to win it all this year. The two of them on the court would blend seamlessly and lift the Cavs up from the doldrums of above-average ball. It'd be nice to see BronBron playing with someone who has some level of talent and it'd also be nice to see Kidd playing with someone who is immensely talented yet still tries hard.

Of course, all that would mean no Kidd in a Knicks uniform - so good luck to Kidd wherever he may land. And if he wants to come to NY, trust me, Zach Randolph and Eddy Curry are not really the softest big men ever to play the game, that's just a viscous rumor. Really.

Soucre: The Times-Picayune, The Star-Ledger

Hype it Up

2008-01-28T13:37:00.000-05:00

That's what's up

Just a quick admin note for all those who care. While sitting on my couch yesterday and nursing a hangover from a night that didn't require all the drinking I did, I was thinking about the Super Bowl and who I was going to pick. Then I started thinking about who some other people were going to pick, and that thought lead to this - wouldn't it be cool to collect a bunch of bloggers' thoughts about who they think is going to win and why? The answer is yes. So today I sent out mad amounts of emails to many blogs that I read and enjoy, asking them to reply with their picks and why in 10 words or less. I've got more replies already than I thought I was going to get (including some from people with blogs 1 million times more popular than mine), so come this Friday, when I post my pick, I'm going to have a whole crap load of other great bloggers' picks posted.

I only emailed the ones that I read a lot, so if anyone is reading this and has a blog and wants to join the party, just send me an email. The responses I've got so far have been great, and I can't wait to see how many get it right. So stay tuned for Friday's post, it should be a good one. And a big "thanks" to all those blogs who have already submitted their picks. Also, still waiting to get a response from The Hot Route's girl, but I think she's mad about me blowing her off on Friday night to sit on my couch and fall into a wine induced stupor. She'll get over it.

Heat Lose 15th Straight

2008-01-25T12:58:00.000-05:00

A decomposing star

The Miami Heat have now lost 15 in a row after bowing in the final minute last night to the San Antonio Spurs. They now stand alongside the Minnesota Timberwolves for the fight over the worst record in the NBA - the Wolves are 7-34 and the Heat are now 8-33. The reasons for the Heat's demise have been explained countless times, so there's no need to keep talking about that. But now news has emerged that Shaq will not retire before the 2 years left on his contract expire, which is bad news for Dwyane Wade.

Not that I expected the big man to opt out when simply staying put and contributing a fraction of what he used to will pay him $40 million. He'd be stupid to retire, I wouldn't if I were him. Besides, there are a lot of things I'd do for $40 million, and many of them are illegal (please email me if you have an offer), so I understand where Shaq is coming from. It's just sad because if Shaq chose to retire, and the Heat had that money off the books, they'd be able to pursue some talent that could actually help D-Wade from going down as the biggest waste of talent the Heat has ever had. Yes, he got them a ring, but Wade is rotting away in Miami. He's a great (albeit oft-injured) player who needs just a little help around him to make the Heat a contender again.

With Shaq saying he's not leaving, Wade is destined to rot some more. It's a good thing Miami has other things going for it, because it looks like it's going to be awhile (about 2 years) until the Heat, and Wade, are good again.

Source: The Miami Herald

Jim Brown Calls out Tiger

2008-01-24T13:53:00.000-05:00

Got it covered

Jim Brown had some words for Tiger Woods, and they weren't exactly positive. Brown called out Woods for him not being more vocal about the lynching comment and the subsequent noose displayed on Golfweek magazine. Basically Brown said that because Woods is such an elevated and public position, he should be more vocal about such issues. And I guess he's right - or is he?

I see Brown's point, but at the same time, why does Tiger have to stand up to this anymore than he wants to? Look, kids aren't deciding to be racist because their favorite golf player isn't speaking out about a stupid/harmful remark some sportscaster said. They're deciding to be racist because of Mommy and Daddy. Sure, little Johnny (this seems to be my favorite generic kid name for some reason) looks up to Tiger and other pros. Sure, he wants that box of Frosted Flakes because he sees them on the box (who doesn't???). Little Johnny will be influenced by sports figures and those around him the entire time he's growing up. But the kid doesn't get racially charged views from anyone else except his parents - and to some extent his peers. I'm talking about kids only here because I'm sure Brown meant that kids were the major reason Tiger needed to speak up. Adults who think people are lower than them because the color of their skin are not worth the time - they've made up their minds and are not going to be swayed one way or the other.

Yeah, Jim Brown has a point. He wants Tiger to speak up out of the principle of the issue. I get it. But Tiger also has a point. If he doesn't want to talk about it, and he thinks it's a "non issue," than it is. The comment was about him, so he dealt with it the way he wanted to. Brown should stop worrying about athletes and their views and start worrying about the parents of the world who let racist views take hold in the first place.

You see what just happened here? Yesterday I'm posting about Hammer and everything is cool, and today I have to come on here and get all serious. Yes, The Hot Route tackles all the issues, from Hammer Time to racism. That's how I roll.

Source: ESPN

Music That Time Forgot

2008-01-23T15:21:00.000-05:00

Perfection

There's lots of music out there, and lets be honest, most of it sucks. You've got Fergie continuing to destroy the Black Eyed Peas (that's another rant for another time) with her latest single and you've got some one-hit wonder named Flo Rida talking about getting "Low" dominating the charts. Well today, because it's a slow sports news day, and because I feel the need to educate the masses, I'm dropping knowledge on you about the Best Album Title Ever. That's right. Bands go through many lengths to ensure a catchy album title, from naming it after the best song on the album to naming it something to grab the people's attention. But there is only one album that can really be considered the Best Album Title Ever - and there is no contest. It's Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em, by MC Hammer.

Think about it for a hot minute. Not only is it Hammer at his best (the album features the runaway smash hit "U Can't Touch This" which told people to stop what they were doing because, well, because it was Hammer's time! Coolest line ever) but it is Hammer at his most bold. He named his own album "Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em." Hammer is basically saying, with no commercial success prior to this release, that he does not want to hurt you with his music and how good it is. In fact, he's begging himself not to hurt you. The album isn't titled just "Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em" it's titled "Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em." Hammer knew he was about to drop some serious rhymes on the people, and he went out of his way to try and prepare the people for what was coming.

But you know the people didn't listen - no, not right away. They bought the album, listened to it, and then they knew. They put on "U Can't Touch This" and then they heard "Pray" and they said to themselves, "Damn! My man just hurt me with his superior skills!" You know why they said this? Because their brains hurt. There was so much knowledge being dropped on them by Hammer (knowledge that he warned them about with the title) that they couldn't take it. Hammer straight damaged their minds with this album. They'd go to school the next day and be in a complete haze. Their friend would see them acting a fool and question them, "Hey man, what's your problem? Why are you acting so slow and crazy?" They'd reply, "Man, Hammer just hurt me. He hurt me man. That album killed me."

MC Hammer knew this would happen, hence the brilliant title. He knew that people would not be ready for the knowledge and for the brilliance that he was about to show them. But that's what makes "Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em" so great. Hammer is polite even when killing you. Oh, and by the way, there was a movie made about Hammer's album too. Get off him.

Source: Amazon.com, YouTube.com

Crosby Sidelined for 6-8 Weeks

2008-01-22T13:59:00.000-05:00

Feats of weakness

As if the NHL needed to be dropped any further down the sports world ladder, Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby is expected to miss about two months with a high ankle sprain. The injury means that Crosby, the league's most marketable and talented player, will miss the NHL's All Star Game this coming Sunday. I feel bad for the NHL. It finally gets some star quality to it, it hits on the great idea of the outdoor game and now Crosby goes down. Few would've been watching the All Star Game anyway, even though it is one of the more exciting contests in the pros, but now no one will tune into the game. I actually think I'm doing the NHL a service by even mentioning it on here, because I guarantee about 20 of you just said to yourself, "The All Star Game is this Sunday?" Probably right after, "Who's Sidney Crosby?" Which was preceded by, "This blog sucks, I could write this crap. But it does have pictures!"

Poor NHL, it just feels like the league is so out of touch, doesn't it? When I think of the league I think of those World's Strongest Man competitions that were (are?) always on ESPN2 back in the day. Didn't they always seem like they were filmed 1973? Every episode? I always felt like I was watching something that was once so great and grand and now is a fraction of what it used to be. I imagine that people in 1973 were all about those competitions, wearing their favorite guy's name on their shirt (which would always have some variation of "Magnus" in it. Incidentally, if you name your kid Magnus, or any form of that, just go ahead and start the training now, because the boy is destined to pull airplanes for money) and going to events all the time. That's what the NHL is now. Something that rarely grabs my attention, seems like it should be better than it is and makes me want to understand what went wrong. But with no answers in sight, I think I'll go see how far I can carry my desk across the office.

Source: The Post-Gazette, Wikipedia

Giants and Patriots Advance to Super Bowl

2008-01-21T13:31:00.000-05:00

NFC

Giants vs. Packers

Well, well, well. I told you didn't I? I told you Eli would be slinging the rock and that the "weather factor" was bulls**t. I'm now 7-3 in playoff picks, so I think when I post my Super Bowl pick (on February 1st) you should pay attention.
This was a great game; a classic. For it to end on Brett Favre throwing a pick is kind of bittersweet - bitter because you don't really want the guy to go out like that and sweet because it's great to not hear about Favre and his heroics today.
I can't believe the Packers only ran the ball 13 times. Big mistake.
Eli has come into his own during this playoff run. He's never going to be that electric quarterback that lights up the scoreboard, but he's doing what it takes, and that's good enough for the Giants.
Man, there were some chippy plays out there, huh? But you have to love that kind of football game - the kind where both teams really hate each other and you see it on every play.
The Giants offensive line is highly underrated, but they'll be getting some love in the time before the Super Bowl I'm sure.
So what do you think? Is Favre going to retire? He said that it'd be his quickest decision on that yet in the post game press conference, so what does that mean? I say he's coming back.
Tailgating at this game must've been brutal, but I'm sure no one acted like it was. I'm sure guys were out there slugging beers and tossing the ball, saying things like, "This isn't that bad! I could be out here all day! It actually feels good to not feel my fingers and toes - who needs 'em??!!" But today you know there's mad dudes sitting at home or work today thinking, "Why do I do bad things to myself?" as they try desperately to recover from frostbite.

AFC

Chargers vs. Patriots

Watching the Chargers keep this game close, I just kept thinking, "Well, it's only a matter of time..." and it was. The Pats are so methodical it's sickening.
I have to hand it to Rivers, he didn't seem to be the cry baby that I anticipated. At least during this one game, which is progress when you consider he has the brain of 9 year old.
When the Chargers kept settling for field goals, I knew this game was over.
You can see the chinks in the Pats (their defense is slow) armour but it just seems that no one can expose them for long enough to win.
Maroney is a beast, he was running hard for the Pats, getting every inch that he could.
Seems like the Chargers were playing mind games with everyone about Rivers' injury. He looked okay to me. Nice move there Norv, very un-Norv like of you.
It's going to be a great Super Bowl. I'm going to be screaming for the GMen (in support of my boy who's a huge Giants fan), drinking beers and sending very common texts that I think are kernels of football wisdom (example = "Chambers looking good today"). I can't wait.

Conference Championship Picks

2008-01-18T12:12:00.000-05:00

Making the picks

NFC

Giants vs. Packers

The GMen are still cheering and sending me fan mail for picking them to upset the Cowboys, but they face a much better opponent in Green Bay. If it doesn't snow, the weather won't be a factor. I don't care that its going to be 3 degrees or whatever it's supposed to be. The Packers will be cold and so will the Giants. You never get used to weather like that. Everyone knows the key to the Giants winning is to upset the timing of Favre and get him on the ground. Without snow on the ground, I like the Giants being able to put some pressure on Favre, who will probably throw a pick or two because of it. On the other side, if Green Bay can turn Ryan Grant loose again like they did to the Seahawks, they'll walk away with this one. But here's my x-factor of the game: the talk of Packers players saying that the Giants are dirty. I know you've heard it. All week long all I keep hearing (and seeing) is Packers players talking about how the Giants hit after the play and crap like that. This is perfect for the Giants. They're already in the Packers' heads, and the game hasn't even started. It's much better to be a team that is considered "dirty" than the one whining about it. With that said, am I really going to pick the GMen once again? Am I going to put myself on the line for Eli once again? Do I have a man crush on Eli now that he's showing some life? Yes. Eli continues his renascence, the Packers commit one too many penalties and Favre is sent into the sunset with a loss. Giants 27 Packers 26.

AFC

Chargers vs. Patriots

This is the beginning of a beautiful rivalry. The Chargers are still wiping their tears about last season, when the Pats players made fun of Merriman's stupid dance after the game, and the Pats are glad to hear it. I feel like if the Chargers were coached by someone else, I'd be more inclined to pick them. But they're coached by Norv, and he lets players act like idiots way too much, and that'll be the difference in this game - mental toughness. I see the Chargers keeping it close for much of the game, regardless of the injury situation. Billy Volek is a decent quarterback, and if he can just keep from turning the ball over, the Chargers will be in a great position to win this game. They also won't miss a healthy LT too much because they have Turner to back him up, and he's a really good back who just needs to find some team to start him. If he can pick up chunks and keep the Pats honest, the Chargers will have an even better chance at this win. But those are two big "ifs." With the Pats, it's more of the same - just business as usual. The Moss situation is a non-issue. I actually believe Randy too, which is odd for me to say. So the questions are - Do the Chargers have it in them to upset the Pats? Will they get enough from Volek to score with the mighty Pats offense? Will Rivers ever stop being such a b**ch? No. Brady takes some sacks but not enough, the Chargers can't score with the Pats, and Rivers, LT and Merriman all whine and cry in the post-game interviews (shocking, I know). Pats 36 Chargers 27.