I just finished the Kentucky-UConn heavyweight bout.

Wow.

Two years ago, I was watching videos on hoopmixtape.com to look at some Brandon Jennings videos to see what all the hype was about. I definitely came away impressed with the HS Jennings, but among all the videos and the posts there was one name that popped up: John Wall.

Look, I’m a Chicago guy and there was plenty of love watching Derrick Rose do it big in his freshman season in Memphis. Then there was Jennings who was another incredible point guard looking to make his mark with Arizona (this was before Italy). But I just could not believe that there was a third, amazing, young point guard from North Carolina. Just watching his game on hoopmixtape.com I became a believer that whoever picks this kid up would have a star.

That star shone brightly today.

John Wall in the first half against UConn

In perhaps the biggest game of his young season so far, UK freshman phenom John Wall put up 25 points and had 6 steals against No. 14 UConn. His performance was simply spectacular. Down the stretch of the 2nd half of a closely contested back and forth game, Wall had 12 of UK’s last 15 points. He came out of the gate blazing to lead UK to an early 12-0 run, but 2 fouls put him on the bench late in the first half. He also tallied 6 turnovers in the game. You think the young Wall would wilt, bend, and perhaps break under the pressure.

But no.

Think about this. You are playing under one of the biggest stages of basketball – the bright lights of Madison Square Garden – against the number 14th ranked UConn powerhouse. Your opponent guarding you is the respected Kemba Walker who is playing in his backyard of New York. Your team is down one point with about thirty-five seconds left. How much better of a script can it get?

For Wall, it was a storybook-ending performance. With already one gaming-winning shot in the bag this season, Wall quietly commanded the ball at the top of the key, blew by his defender, hit the tough layup…and one.

Clutch.

The kid has is all. Court vision. Great hands. Good shooting. Blazing speed. Incredible athleticism. And of course…Clutch. Forget Ricky Rubio, John Wall is the unquestionable number one pick in next year’s draft.

…and since the Bulls dropped another game, I can dream of a Derrick Rose-John Wall backcourt for next year.

What’s good fam?!  I know it’s been a minute, but I’m back with a TON of good stuff for you to check out, read, watch, view, or whatever it is that you do on ddisbored.  So, without this being bogged down with my rambling, I’ll Re-introduce myself, by telling you what is on my mind?!

1. Kentucky’s Freshman Guard, John Wall, is a BEAST! If  you missed the performance he put on against UConn Tonight, turn on ESPN or go to ESPN.com NOW, and watch the highlights of him kid is a DIAPER DANDY (haha, never again).  I can’t wait to watch more of him, primarily this month because the SEC sucks.  Also, shouts to my man also on Kentucky, First Team Preseason All-American, Patrick Patterson from Huntington, WV!  YESSIR!!
2. Would you take a Flight to Space? Yes, A Flight To Space!! Well, for $200,000 you can do that in 2011.  No bull shit. But, what I wanna know is will they charge you $30 for your luggage?!  Check it Out Here.
3. Where is the Freshman Class of Gangsta Rappers? Are they coming soon? or is Gangsta Rap over?  Because Drake, Wale, Kid Cudi, B.O.B, Big Sean, & Mike Posner, in my opinion, all come from the “Kanye West School of Hip-Hop”.  Where are the new “Hard”, “Street”, (insert rapper adjective here), MC’s at?  If they’re out there COMMENT BELOW!  Let me know where they at?!
4. Why is Coca-Cola mass producing 7 oz cans of Soda? WORTHLESS,  All that means is that I’ll be forced to drink 14 ounces of soda, instead of my normal 12.  BAD IDEA COKE PEOPLE!  Almost as bad as remaking the Mean Joe Greene Commercial.
5. WHY IS CONGRESS WASTING TIME WORKING ON COLLEGE FOOTBALL’S BCS!? Unless, they’re asking the NCAA to solve the Wars in Iraq & Afghanistan… LEAVE IT ALONE CONGRESS!!
6. I SLEPT WITH TIGER WOODS… don’t hate,  i want some of that sleazy publication money like everyone else!… Enquirer, TMZ, Perez, Us Weekly, HOLLA ATCHA BOI!!

~Hit Me On Twitter: TWITTER.COM/DDISBORED

The UConn Huskies came up just short on Wednesday night, as the Kentucky Wildcats prevailed in a close game, 64-61. UConn, who began the game down 12-0, showed a lot of heart and effort, in one of their best performances of the year. However, the upset bid came up three points shy, as the John Wall lead Wildcats defeated the Huskies in Madison Square Garden in the SEC/Big East Invitational.

Wall lead all scores with 25 points, including 12 of Kentucky’s last 15 in the game. The stud freshman lived up to his hype and carried Kentucky to victory.

UConn was lead by Jerome Dyson, who finished with 17 points and 5 rebounds, and Gavin Edwards, who had a season high 16 points to go along with 8 rebounds. The Huskies were able to out-rebound the bigger and deeper Wildcats 38-35.

Coach Jim Calhoun has to be pleased with the effort and toughness his team showed, but disappointed in the outcome. The Huskies drop to 6-2 on the season. UConn will now have 10 days off until their next game, which is December 20th against the University of Central Florida.

It’s that time of the year again…time to go bowling. Here are my bowl predictions for 2009:

New Mexico

Fresno State (8-4) vs. Wyoming (6-6)

Fresno State has had a decent year, primarily to the fact that their offense ranks 19th nationally (435.9 yards per game), which is anchored by Ryan Matthews, who leads the nation in 151.3 rushing yards per game.  Ryan Matthews is a dynamic running back who has been under the radar all season. Wyoming will have no answer for him as their defense gives up 170.5 rushing yards per game. Fresno State wins big.

Pick: Fresno State

St. Petersburg

Central Florida (8-4) vs. Rutgers (8-4)

Tom Savage leads the Scarlet Knights into Florida to face off against the Knights of Central Florida, who are playing virtually a home game at Tropicana Field.  The freshman quarterback has shown his merit this season by tossing 12 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions.  Both offenses match up well with each other so a close game is expected to take place. Though the crowd will predominately be for Central Florida, Greg Schiano will have his team prepared as this will be the perfect venue for him to “showcase his talented athletes.”

Pick: Rutgers

R + L Carriers New Orleans

Southern Miss (7-5) vs. Middle Tennessee State (9-3)

Don’t be fooled by Southern Miss’ record.  A tough out-of-conference schedule, with road trips to Kansas, Louisville, and Houston, have contributed to their five losses.  Southern Miss brings a one-two punch in Damion Fletcher and Martevious Young. Both teams feature two impressive defenses as this game will be a tough, close game.

Pick: Southern Miss

MAACO Las Vegas

Oregon State (8-4) vs. BYU (10-2)

One of the more interesting early bowl games, features two impressive quarterbacks in Max Hall and Sean Canfield.  With the lack of defenses both teams have exhibited throughout the season, this should be set up for quite the barn-burner. Jacquizz Rodgers of Oregon State should have a big day as he will rush over 100 yards.  Though the Las Vegas bowl can be considered BYU’s home-away-from-home, Oregon State will be out with something to prove as they just missed out playing in Pasadena.

Pick: Oregon State

S.D. County Credit Union Poinsettia

Utah (9-3) vs. California (8-4)

Not the season finale Cal had in mind at the beginning of the season.  However, with the return of Jahvid Best, Cal’s offense will get a much needed boost.  Back again in the bowls is Utah, after having an incredible season last year, concluding with the win over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.  The Utes will look to continue the success and go for their ninth straight bowl win. Terrance Cain and David Reed for Utah will connect often, as the Utes get bowl win number 9.

Pick: Utah

Sheraton Hawaii

Nevada (8-4) vs. Southern Methodist (7-5)

Welcome back June Jones. The former Hawaii coach will be making his first return back to the state after leaving in early 2008.  However, this reunion will be not be so welcoming, as the Mustangs must square off against the 2nd ranked offense in the country in total yards. Featuring three 1,000-yard rushers, Vai Taua, Colin Kaepernick, and Luke Lippincott, Nevada will roll over SMU as the Wolf Pack offense puts up huge numbers.

Pick: Nevada

Little Caesars

Marshall (6-6) vs. Ohio (9-4)

Marshall comes into this game losing 3 of its last 4 remaining games this season and also with a new coach, as Mark Snyder stepped down with the conclusion of the regular season.  Ohio, on the other hand, is riding a hot streak, winning its last 4 of 5 games.  The distraction of having a new head coach won’t be a problem for Ohio, as they win this game, like they have been most of the year, through the air.

Pick: Ohio

Meineke Car Care

Pittsburgh (9-3) vs. North Carolina (8-4)

A botched extra point attempt cost Pittsburgh a shot at playing Florida in the Sugar Bowl.  A heart-breaking loss now has Pitt slated against a terribly inconsistent Tarheel team.  With wins against Virginia Tech and Miami, UNC has the capabilities and the team to win against good teams.  However, Dion Lewis and Bill Stull pose a serious threat to the UNC defense, as they both have excelled this Panther offense.  I think the disappointment will still be lingering over the heads of the Panthers after missing out playing in the Sugar Bowl.  Butch Davis will have his team prepared and get a win in this mild upset.

Pick: North Carolina

Emerald

Boston College (8-4) vs. USC (8-4)

Not the bowl you would have thought USC would playing in at the beginning of the season?  Inconsistent play on both sides of the ball is one reason USC is 8-4 and playing against BC.  Though Matt Barkley has a bright and promising future ahead of him, he has not lived up to the preseason hype.  Coach Frank Spaziani has far exceeded expectations for Boston College, as his team was predicted to finish last in the Atlantic Division in the ACC.  BC has been known for their stingy defense this season but will have their hands full with the Trojan offense.  Look for Barkley to air the ball out more than usual as USC will make more plays down the road than BC.

Pick: USC

Gaylord Hotels Music City

Kentucky (7-5) vs. Clemson (8-5)

It is a shame that C.J. Spiller will not be spending the weekend in New York City.  As the very last game of his collegiate career, Spiller wants nothing more than to go out a winner.  To achieve this, Clemson will  have to take care of business against Kentucky.  Randall Cobb, only a sophomore, of Kentucky poses a problem for the defense of Clemson and we will see how they respond to him.  Though not one of the more interesting match ups, look for Spiller to have another good day.

Pick: Clemson

AdvoCare V100 Independence

Texas A&M (6-6) vs. Georgia (7-5)

If you still don’t know who Jerrod Johnson is, maybe you should refresh your memory by watching the Texas/Texas A&M game again.  There is no doubt that Georgia is well aware of him.  Leading the 5th ranked offense in the nation in total yards per game, Jerrod Johnson will be up against a Georgia defense that has been anything but good, and the Aggies’ defense isn’t much better.  I expect this to be high scoring game with Jerrod Johnson and Joe Cox putting up big numbers.  Also, look for the resurgent Georgia ground game, with the combination of Washaun Ealey and Caleb King, to also have a good day.

Pick: Georgia

Eaglebank

Army (5-6)/UCLA (6-6) vs. Temple (9-3)

Temple? 9-3? As crazy as that sounds, it has become reality.  Al Golden has done an incredible job this year with the Temple Owls.  We are still waiting the results of the Army/Navy game to determine if Army or UCLA gets the invitation.  Pending an upset on the part of Army, UCLA, more than likely, will end up getting the bid and facing Temple.  If this scenario were to unfold, though Temple has had a great season, Rick Neuheisel and company will be ready to go and get the job done.

Pick: UCLA

Champs Sports

Miami (FL) (9-3) vs. Wisconsin (9-3)

The key to this game will come down to who commits the least amount of turnovers.  Jacory Harris leads the nation in interceptions, however, Wisconsin isn’t known for their smothering secondary.  The Hurricanes are going to need to key on the explosive John Clay of Wisconsin, who just took home the Big 10 Offensive Player of Year award.  If they can limit John Clay’s yardage and productivity and force the game upon Scott Tolzien’s shoulders, Miami has a great shot of winning this game.  This will be a great match up between the “power” of the Big 10 against the “speed” of the ACC.  In the end, Miami’s speed will win this game.

Pick: Miami

Roady’s Humanitarian

Bowling Green (7-5) vs. Idaho (7-5)

What a Cinderella story Idaho’s season has been.  Robb Akey has turned this team around from a dismal 2-win season last year.  Continuing their success with a bowl win won’t be easy as they have to face Tyler Sheehan and Freddie Barnes of Bowling Green.  This game should turn out to be a high scoring affair.  Though Bowling Green and Idaho are not marquee programs, this should turn out to be an enjoyable game to watch as the scoring should come soon and often from both sides.  I like Idaho’s Cinderella story to continue and get their second-ever bowl win.

Pick: Idaho

Pacific Life Holiday

Arizona (8-4) vs. Nebraska (9-4)

What a tale of two stories…well in regards to the conclusion of the regular season.  Arizona is still on Cloud 9 after finally defeating USC.  On the opposite side, Nebraska was literally one second away from pulling off the upset of the season and throwing BCS officials in chaos.  Now, it’s time to stop cheering and crying and get ready to play one more.  Mike Stoops, every year, seems to be constantly improving his Wildcats.  It will be interesting to see how sophomore Nick Foles handles Heisman candidate Ndamukong Suh and the rest of the Nebraska pass rush.  For Nebraska, its offense has been terrible all season and almost looked nonexistent against Texas.  I know, Arizona isn’t Texas.  The Nebraska defense will be fired up and will completely dominate the Arizona offensive line.  Look for Nebraska to rely on their running game.

Pick: Nebraska

Bell Helicopter Armed Forces

Houston (10-3) vs. Air Force (7-5)

Don’t expect Houston to run away with this one.  Case Keenum has put up ridiculous numbers this year and it will interesting to see how he does against the nation’s leading pass defense in Air Force.  Air Force hasn’t received much attention this year, but remember they almost beat TCU.  Of course the key word there being “almost.”  A rematch of last year’s exciting game, I predict the same from this year’s version.  Look for Houston to continue their postseason success.

Pick: Houston

Brut Sun

Oklahoma (7-5) vs. Stanford (8-4)

If only Sam Bradford could foresee this season’s happenings, last year.  A knee injury, a shoulder injury, and five losses later, the preseason top 5 team couldn’t have envisioned a worse set of events.  However, what is done, is done.  Stanford comes knocking with Heisman candidate Toby Gerhart leading the way for a potent offense.  Stanford might be without Andrew Luck, after getting surgey to repair an injured thumb, which could make things interesting.  Regardless, I think the postseason blues continue for Bob Stoops and the Sooners.

Pick: Stanford

Texas

Navy (8-4) vs. Missouri (8-4)

Navy comes into this game ranking dead last, well almost, in average passing yards per game.  I guess you don’t really need to pass when you rank 3rd in the nation in average rushing yards per game.  However, this, combined with a tough front seven for Missouri, could give Navy some problems.  An explosive Missouri offense, though still young, will keep the Navy defense on their heels.

Pick: Missouri

Insight

Minnesota (6-6) vs. Iowa State (6-6)

It still amazes me how Nebraska ever lost to Iowa State this season.   I guess that is what committing 8 turnovers will get you.  Without star wideout, Eric Decker, Minnesota has definitely felt the effects of the lack of a down field threat.  Minnesota will need to rely on its defense in this one, as the Golden Gopher offense has not been real productive.  Iowa State, more than likely, will come out and try to establish the run early as its passing attack has been dismal.  Don’t expect many fireworks from this game.  Anticipate a low scoring affair with Minnesota’s defense being the difference maker.

Pick: Minnesota

Chick-fil-a

Virginia Tech (9-3) vs. Tennessee (7-5)

The city of Atlanta has not been kind to the Hokies, as they are 1-3 in the last two years.  Lane Kiffin hopes to capitalize on Virginia Tech’s misfortunes in Atlanta, particularly in the Georgia Dome.  ACC Rookie of the Year, Ryan Williams, leads the Hokie offense against a tough Volunteer defense anchored by All-American Eric Berry.  The key for the Volunteers will be in their front seven.  Stopping the run, which Tennessee has excelled at this year, will put the game on Tyrod Taylor’s shoulders and the Hokies’ passing attack.  Though a much improved offense from last year, the Hokies must establish the running game if they are to going to win this game.  Also, the Hokies’ defense hasn’t been what is used to be in previous years and has been susceptible to big plays.  Jonathan Crompton and Montario Hardesty are just the kind of guys to make those plays happen.  One of the most exciting games thus far in the schedule, defense will be they key, and that favors Tennessee.

Pick: Tennessee

Outback

Northwestern (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)

Gene Chizik’s first year at Auburn is about what we all expected; not great but not terrible either.  In comes a hot Northwestern team hungry for some postseason glory.  Auburn didn’t finish the season like most fans would wanted them to, losing its last 5 of 7.  I think Chris Todd and Ben Tate will give more then what the Northwestern defense can handle.  Look for the Auburn pass rush to continuously bring the heat and keep Northwestern’s Mike Kafka under pressure.

Pick: Auburn

Capital One

Penn State (10-2) vs. LSU (9-3)

This heavyweight bout will definitely be an intriguing one to watch.  It features two teams that were determined to receive a BCS bid but both came up a little short. The quarterback play favors Penn State as a seasoned Daryll Clark leads the Nittany Lions’ offense.  Jordan Jefferson has shown us glimpses of his potential but the inexperience has also been displayed on a number of occasions.  The key for him is ball security and making intelligent decisions with his passes.  I believe Jefferson and the LSU offense will also get the ball more times the Penn State offense, thanks in part to the very fast LSU defense.  Les Miles and Tigers get the W.

Pick: LSU

Konica Minolta Gator

West Virginia (9-3) vs. Florida State (6-6)

Should Florida State be playing in the Gator Bowl?  Well, that is up for debate.  Unfortunately, for Florida State and college football nation, the circumstances that have transpired over the course of the season is not the way a legendary coach should go out. As history would have it, Bobby Bowden and his Seminoles will be playing against the same team when he won his first bowl game.  There is no doubt that the Seminoles will be playing inspired football and that is bad news for West Virginia.  Noel Devine is a shifty, quick running back that the Florida State defense needs to contain if they are to win this game.  Though the FSU’s defense has been shredded this year, I think the team will rally around their coach and give him the proper exit he deserves.

Pick: Florida State

Rose

Ohio State (10-2) vs. Oregon (10-2)

Wait…what? No, USC?  Hard to believe, I know.  But, another team, other than USC, is playing in the Rose Bowl Game.  Oregon, which has an offense as predictable as their uniforms, will give everything the Ohio State defense can muster.  Jeremiah Masoli and LaMichael James lead the high-powered rushing attack for the Ducks, which should be an interesting match up against the 5th ranked rushing defense in the nation.  But this offense is a whole different animal then what the Ohio State defense has seen all season.  The key for Ohio State is time of possession.  Ohio State needs to have long, time consuming drives to keep the dynamic Duck offense on the bench.  If the Buckeyes can sustain long drives, eliminate the plaguing problem of going 3 and out on numerous occasions, and score touchdowns and not field goals, then they will a shot.  History is also on the Ducks’ side, as Ohio State has a notorious reputation of collapsing in BCS games.  Could the Buckeyes be finally due for a BCS bowl win?  Yeah, I don’t think so either.

Pick: Oregon

Allstate Sugar

Florida (12-1) vs. Cincinnati (12-0)

Can it really be Tim Tebow’s last game?  Relax, I am not showing any jubilation or sadness.  But you cannot argue that when he does leave Florida, he will, more than likely, be remembered as one of the greatest college football players ever…I don’t care who you are.  A classic proverbial match up between David and Goliath.  Good thing I am not Brian Kelly.  There are not a whole lot of weaknesses that Florida exhibits.  Cincinnati will need to find a way to establish the run, even though that is not their strong suit.  Tony Pike cannot through 45-50 times during this game.  The Bearcats will also need to have long, successful drives to keep the powerful Gator offense on the sidelines.  The Cincinnati defense needs to try and keep the Gators out of the endzone; limit them to just field goals.  Florida is going to score, but limiting the opportunities to do so is imperative.  But, when the clock ticks down to :00, the Gators will be celebrating another BCS win and also closing the chapter on an era.

Pick: Florida

International

South Florida (7-5) vs. Northern Illinois (7-5)

Another inconsistent team in South Florida, you just never know what to expect from this Bulls.  Much like their 2007 season, a great start by the Bulls evaporated and then mediocracy set in.  South Florida’s rushing attack is lead by freshman B.J. Daniels, who will be a stud one day.  Northern Illinois has a potent rushing attack of their own that ranks in the top 20 in the nation.  Running back Chad Spann of the Huskies, might have some difficulty with the quick and talented front seven of South Florida.  A game that is not very appealing, I think the Bulls, thanks in part to their running game, come out victorious.

Pick: South Florida

Papajohns.com

South Carolina (7-5) vs. Connecticut (7-5)

Who couldn’t root for the Connecticut Huskies this year, especially after the tragic death of Jasper Howard?  UConn has been on a hot streak recently and is looking to carry that momentum into this match up with the Gamecocks.  South Carolina has had some problems as of late, but got a much needed win over their in-state rival, Clemson.  The Huskies will want to win this game for their fallen teammate, however, the South Carolina defense won’t be so willing to accommodate.  The Connecticut players will be playing inspired football but they will come up a little short as the Gamecock defense is the difference in this game.

Pick: South Carolina

AT&T Cotton

Oklahoma State (9-3) vs. Ole Miss (8-4)

It seems that Ole Miss has fallen victim to the Sooner-syndrome.  No, not because of devasting injuries but because of terribly high expectations that were never met.  The Rebels sat atop the preseason poll ranked #8 in the country.  After climbing as high as #4, losses started mounting up and the realization that Ole Miss wasn’t going to challenge for the SEC West started to be evident.  A similar story can be told about Oklahoma State, especially after their opening win against Georgia.  Now, these two teams square off against each other in what should be an entertaining game.  The Rebels have one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the SEC in Dexter McCluster and also boast Jevan Snead, who can be said that he, just like his team, has underachieved this season given his expectations.  Nonetheless, these two will give the Cowboys’ defense some trouble, especially in containing McCluster.  Zac Robinson, like most of the season, will be without Dez Bryant, who was the Cowboys’ deep threat target but that hasn’t stopped Robinson or the rest of the Cowboys from racking up 9 wins.  This could possibly be one of the most difficult games to predict the winner as both teams seems to match up with each other well.  I am counting on McCluster’s play making abilities and Rebels defense to get the job done.

Pick: Ole Miss

Autozone Liberty

Arkansas (7-5) vs. East Carolina (9-4)

Skip Holtz’s team finished the season with their signature win of the year after having upset Houston.  However, with Houston being the exception, every decent team ECU faced, the outcome was the same: loss.  The Purple Pirates now face an offensively gifted team in Arkansas, led by Ryan Mallett.  ECU defeated Houston but Case Keenum still tossed for 527 passing yards.  I predict Ryan Mallett will have a similar day.  He won’t throw for 500 yards but he will have a great day through the air.  ECU’s defensive unit will keep the team in the game but look for Arkansas to pull away late, thanks in part to the Razorback’s offense.

Pick: Arkansas

Valero Alamo

Michigan State (6-6) vs. Texas Tech (8-4)

This is one game that should on the top of most people’s confidence sheets.  Texas Tech has the second best passing attack in the nation.  What else would we expect from Texas Tech?  Taylor Potts had enormous shoes to fill with the departure of Graham Harrell last year and for the most part, has done a great job.  Potts now goes up against a Michigan State team that has been inconsistent all season, particularly on the defensive side of the  ball.  The Spartan secondary ranks 96th in the country in pass efficiency defense.  Look for Taylor Potts to have a huge day as Texas Tech wins.

Pick: Texas Tech

Fiesta

Boise State (13-0) vs. TCU (12-0)

I am not going to dwell too much on the controversy of this bowl as my previous post reflected my opinion of what I think of this bowl (Fiesta Bowl Bust).  From a purely competitive standpoint, I think this will be a great game: great offense vs. great defense.  Furthermore, don’t discredit TCU’s offense, which ranks 4th in the country in total yards per game and 5th in points scored per game.  The Horned Frogs’ stingy defense is anchored by Jerry Hughes, who just collected the Ted Hendricks award, which recognizes the country’s best defensive end.  The front seven of TCU will definitely challenge the offensive line of Boise State and pressure Bronco quarterback Kellen Moore.  Kellen Moore has looked great all season, tossing 39 touchdowns on the season with only 3 interceptions.  TCU’s secondary will be constantly challenged from Moore and his receivers.  A rematch from last year’s Poinsettia Bowl, which TCU edged out Boise State 17-16, this version should be one heck of a game, as the stage is larger and the stakes higher.  I think there is not a whole lot these defenses can do to completely each other’s offenses.  However, TCU’s defense I believe is the real deal.  TCU wins this game in a close one.

Pick: TCU

FedEx Orange

Iowa (10-2) vs. Georgia Tech (11-2)

How do you stop Paul Johnson and his Yellow Jackets’ triple-option attack?  It’s not easy, but Iowa has the defensive unit to do it.  They don’t win gracefully and put up 40 points but they do find ways to win.  I guess it was inevitable that Iowa wasn’t going to stay undefeated forever because every week it came down to the fourth quarter against a team that the Hawkeyes should have beat by double-digits.  I feel sorry for all of you gamblers out there that constantly kept picking Iowa to cover the spread.  Now, comes arguably the greatest challenge the Hawkeyes have faced all season.  Paul Johnson might be the most creative and strategically offensive mind in the country.  He doesn’t have a game plan because his game plan changes after every play unfolds.  Kirk Ferentz and his defense will have their hands full.  If they can manage to slow down Georgia Tech’s triple-option and keep them out of the endzone, which is like asking you to walk on water, then Iowa might have a chance.  The Hawkeyes will be happy to welcome Ricky Stanzi back from injury and this will give the Iowa offense a much needed boost since his departure.  It is hard to pick against Paul Johnson and it is amazing that in only his second year as the Yellow Jackets’ head coach, he will have one his first Orange Bowl.

Pick: Georgia Tech

GMAC Bowl

Central Michigan (11-2) vs. Troy (9-3)

For those who don’t know, Notre Dame was originally slated to play against Central Michigan.  Instead, Notre Dame officials withdrew their name and Troy is now the lucky school that must face Central Michigan’s Dan LeFevour.  And who could blame Notre Dame?  Dan LeFevour is probably the most successful player in Central Michigan football history, accumulating three MAC Championships in the four years he has been quarterback.  Now, his successful career is coming to a close with only one game left.  The Chippewas are out to avenge two consecutive bowls losses and LeFevour would like nothing more than to go out on top.  What is predicted to be a high scoring battle, both Central Michigan and Troy will put up huge numbers offensively.  The leadership and inspiration to finish a winner will drive Dan LeFevour and the rest of the Chippewas to a victory.

Pick: Central Michigan

Citi BCS National Championship Game

Texas (13-0) vs. Alabama (13-0)

The most anticipated game of the postseason, the Longhorns square off against the Crimson Tide.  This game not only features two Heisman candidates but also two of the best defenses in the country.  The game is still a little less than month away and I am hearing it already from other blogs and analysts, “how Texas doesn’t have a chance,” in this game.  I know it is easy to  look back a few weeks and see how Texas struggled both offensively and defensively, especially when Texas A&M embarrassed the Longhorn defense.  Another example can be shown from just as recent as last week’s Big 12 Championship game, where Nebraska almost cost Texas its shot at the national title and its undefeated season.  But don’t forget, Texas did finish undefeated in the Big 12.  Call it what you want, but the Longhorns have earned their spot in this game.  Alabama comes into this game with all the momentum in the world after trouncing Florida in the SEC Championship game and it looks like the Crimson Tide might just roll over Texas and give the SEC its fourth consecutive national championship.  However, Texas is in a great position to be in.  With so many doubters and disbelievers, Texas might just shock the Crimson Tide.  Momentum won’t carry much weight a month from now and teams are coached to have a short memory.  I expect this game to be closer than what most experts are calling.  However, in the end, Mark Ingram and the Crimson Tide win the national title over Colt McCoy and the Longhorns and give the SEC four straight.

Pick: Alabama

A Ohio schoolteacher, Lucy (Doe)  has recently lost her job due to  budget cutbacks. Her husband is still working driving a truck. She states they bearly make it. Trucking  pays little due to government regulations, taxes, and fuel. Lucy wishes to help. She grew up on a farm in western Ohio. Her family lost their farm back in the 1980’s to a criminal bank owned by a criminal insurance company. Lucy has had enough! She is ready to fight back! She states, “If only for my children”.

Dear Lucy,

God loves you. Hang in their girl. Keep fighting. It’s “Our Country”. You can help best by getting the word out to your friends and family. Have them call their fearless leaders. Let them know their sheep are on the way. That they  need  not screw working America any more.  Lucy you are “We the people”.

Skeetron

Farmer Homer Johnson, of  Montana has just lost his farm to foreclosure. “Bail Out Banking”!  Homer claims  bank had no mercy. His wife and family went to her mother’s. Homer hid livestock with a fellow farmer.  Homer now wishes to pledge a truckload of sheep towards the “Save America Send a Sheep to Washington” campaign.

Dear Homer Johnson,

Your pledge is greatly appreciated. One sheep per American. We will be in contact when trucking enters your area.  Sell the rest. Good luck!  Stand tall!  Homer Johnson you are “We the people”.

Skeetron

You didn’t think ESPN was going to let the ACC/Big Ten Challenge get all of the limelight, did you? Of course not. Tonight kicks off the Big East/SEC Invitational. It doesn’t get the hype of the ACC/Big Ten Challenge, nor does it have as many games. However, this eight team event does bring us two early-season marquee match ups between four big name programs.

Two games are tipping off at Madison Square Garden tonight, including Kentucky and UConn. Tomorrow, the event shifts to Tampa, where Florida and Syracuse face off, and of course, we will have another open threadage for that game. The other two games of the Invitational: Georgia vs St. John’s tonight, then DePaul and Mississippi State tomorrow.

Feel free to use the comments section tonight to discuss the Kentucky-UConn game and — contrary to what Fetch says — what ESPN refers to as the best freshman in the land: John Wall. Or  feel free to talk about whatever you really feel like discussing. Myself, Fetch and SouvenirCity will be popping in throughout the night to join in. So have it, folks. It’s an open forum: nuestra casa es tu casa. Or blog. Whatever.

Oh, and of course, I won’t leave you without the doctor’s recommended daily dose of Beadle. Enjoy.

The speaker of the house objects loudly!  He protest as he pound his gable. He screams. He shouts!  Then silence. Sound of metal upon metal can heard. A kind voice echoes the “Halls of Congress”.  Nobody home idiot. They’re all gone. Go home.

“We the people” continues mopping  floor. 

Skeetron.

We the People of the United States, in Order to reform a more perfect Union, apply for a building  permit to build a perimeter fence of approximately twenty acres  surrounding the “Halls of Congress”. A Fence shall be constructed at a height to properly maintain frantic livestock. The purpose of said pasture is to maintain a  presence of  “We the people” within American government. A herd of sheep shall graze said pasture.  The letters “We the people” shall be painted at each side of each  sheep. Give our Great Fearless Leaders a choice. Screw “We the people” ? Or baaaaaaa?  Save America Send a Sheep to Washington.

Skeetron

I created 3 differnt options that you can take a look at….

Option #1: I used the starfish and sand dollar layout.  The last layer of cardstock is a striking aqua blue and the middle layer is a light purple shimmer textured cardstock.  The Swarovski crystal Mickey Mouse head is place above all the wording on this invitation….

Option #2: 

For this one I used almost the same cardstock color scheme…the only difference is that the bottom layer of cardstock is slightly darker in color and more blue than the previous and also this one has shimmer sheen to it where the first one was a matte cardstock.  I used the starfish layout  and placed the Swarovski crystal Mickey head accent above your names.  I also used the font that you had mentioned that you liked and accented the names in a sea foam green color….

Option #3:

Here is the same starfish layout as the previous one.  For this one I decided to try a sand colored pattern paper for the middle layer and I used the shimmer lavender for the bottom layer.  The same font was used for this one but instead I accented your names in lavender. 

Dear Kentucky Fried Chicken,

The “F” in your newly branded KFC stands for “fried,” not grilled.

That being said, I just had your grilled chicken for lunch, complete with Southern (cooked limp to within an inch of their life, so all the nutrients get sucked out and replaced by salt, but oh so good) green beans and mashed potatoes, and…

It was actually pretty good.

So while the Colonel might not be proud of y’all, we appreciate what you’re doing to keep us all healthier and offer another choice for those picnics we’re already looking forward to next summer.

Your Kentucky friend,

Ginger

Formula prediction:
Connecticut wins by 5 points

Other predictions:
Brett -
Don – Kentucky wins by 5 points

Raw score:
Connecticut 70
Kentucky 65

Accuracy:
82.730% at 5+ points

With its decision not to challenge a Kentucky Supreme Court ruling, the state will put a momentary hold on death penalty executions to certify the process it uses for lethal injection.

Kentucky will be conducting a series of public hearings about its lethal injection protocol after that protocol was challenged in court. The hearings won’t challenge the method the state uses to kill inmates on death row, but is primarily an administrative task that wasn’t properly undertaken in the past, and therefore didn’t comply with state law. The court ruled that executions must be put on hold until the protocol is properly adopted.

And so far, the governor and many state leaders haven’t lent an ear to the pleas of those who want Kentucky to put an end to the death penalty, or at least put any executions on hold pending the results of an American Bar Association study of the how the state implements the death penalty. Five lawmakers asked Gov. Steve Beshear to hold off on appointing execution dates for three death row inmates that have exhausted their appeals.

But while Kentucky takes this momentary pause with the death penalty, executions are going ahead in the states that surround it. This Friday, inmate Matthew Eric Wrinkles is slated to be put to death in Michigan City, Ind., at the Indiana State Prison.

An article in today’s Courier-Press notes that the gap of more than two years between executions in Indiana is the longest since a nine-year gap spanning the late 1980s and early 1990s.

And to Kentucky’s northeast, Ohio executed an inmate Tuesday using a new, one-drug cocktail that differs from the three drugs Kentucky uses in its lethal injection method. Ohio overhauled its injection method after a stuggle spanning several hours to find a suitable vein in what was a failed attempt to execute the inmate, Romell Broom. Broom is now challenging his execution in court based upon the failed attempt.

The experiences in Ohio and Indiana show that the appeals will always run out, and the state can always find a new and innovative way to execute prisoners.

But the delay in Kentucky, though based on procedural challenges, should present an opportunity to take a deep breath and determine whether this state wants to continue killing in the name of justice.

As a victim’s relative said following this week’s execution in Ohio after seeing the inmate breath his last breath, “That was too easy.”

The death penalty is too easy. It’s too easy to think that executions will bring justice for society or closure for victims.

It’s too easy for the wrong person to be prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to death, only to find out too late that the wrong man was put to death. Just ask the state of Mississippi, which is now being required to compensate people who have been wrongfully convicted of crimes, including former death row inmates, as reported by the Jackson Clarion-Ledger.

Unfortunately, it appears it will be hard for the lawmakers in this state to back away from the death penalty, despite the mounting reasons why it is bad policy.

The third annual SEC BIG EAST Invitational kicks off tonight with eight teams competing over two nights in both New York and Tampa. Providence played in the inaugural SEC BIG EAST Challenge losing to South Carolina 68-67 at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia.  This years Invitational has some marquee matchups in UConn vs. Kentucky, and Syracuse vs. Florida.  Also St. John’s will take on Georgia, and DePaul will play Mississippi State.  The action tips off tonight at the Garden with St. John’s playing Georgia, and the anticipated matchup of UConn vs. Kentucky.  On Thurdsay the Invitational will head south to Tampa where the other games will take place.  The BIG EAST leads the all-time series 5-3 and will look to build on that over the next two evenings.

The Invitational has given us some really nice matchups this year.  We have been looking forward to the Kentucky UConn game since the schedule came out, and the Syracuse Florida game has turned into a marquee matchup as well.  We have really wanted to see how Kemba Walker and the taller John Wall matchup.  They might not play on each other for the whole game but we look forward to when their paths do cross.  Hopefully it’s more often than not.  Also Syracuse once again finds themselves up against a quality opponent.  They dismantled the other two top 15 teams they played but will they be able to do it again?  If it was at the Garden where they are amazing yes, but this game is in Tampa and will be a big win away from the Carrier Dome.  Both games have the potential to be really good.

In the other two games St. John’s and DePaul have gotten off to strong starts and will be looking to continue.  With DePaul banged up, we have our eye on the Johnnies.  They will be playing what is esentially a home game in their home away from home, Madison Square Garden, and will be taking on a Georgia team that has not impressed up until this point.  A win here would put them at 8-1 and should be the last difficult game until the BIG EAST starts.

Things could go either way this year.  UConn has the potential to beat Kentucky, but not if they play the way they did against Harvard.  We think the best chances of winning are Syracuse and St. John’s.  We would like to say the BIG EAST will go 3-1 but we just aren’t sure about how UConn will come out and play.  The smart bet would probably be to say that we will go 2-2… but we will take a chance with the Huskies and say that they come to play this time and beat Kentucky.  Prediction:  BIG EAST 3, SEC 1. What do you think???

Well, it’s easy enough to say who’s the champ this year …

GEORGIA TECH 39, Clemson 34

Congratulations to the Yellowjackets on winning the 2009 ACC Championship and best wishes in the Orange Bowl!

And now, here are the bowl games with ACC tie-ins:

• Meineke Car Care Bowl (Dec. 26, Charlotte) – North Carolina vs. Pittsburgh
• Emerald Bowl (Dec. 26, San Francisco) – Boston College vs. USC
• Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl (Dec. 27, Nashville) – Clemson vs. Kentucky
• Champs Sports Bowl (Dec. 29, Orland0) – Miami vs. Wisconsin
• Chick-Fil-A Bowl (Dec. 31, Atlanta) – Virginia Tech vs. Tennessee
• Konica Minolta Gator Bowl (Jan. 1, Jacksonville, FL) – Florida State vs. West Virginia
• FedEx Orange Bowl (Jan. 5, Miami) – Georgia Tech vs. Iowa

U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, arrives on Camp Legeune, N.C., to visit Marines assigned there, Dec. 7, 2009. Mullen also traveled to Fort Campbell, Ky., to visit soldiers scheduled to be the first units deployed under President Barack Obama's plan to send 30,000 additional forces in Afghanistan. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

More photos here.

It was the last time and the first time. On Sunday, December 6, the University of Louisville women’s basketball team had a pre-game ceremony to unveil their 2009 NCAA finalist banner at Freedom Hall.  This was the last time the school will raise a banner at Freedom Hall and it was the first for the women’s basketball team.  This banner for the women marks the best season in program history.  Becky Burke and Deseree’ Byrd share the moment during the ceremony.

Becky Burke missed this 3-point attempt but got her own rebound and made the follow-up three on her way to 20 for the game to lead the Cards to a 60-55 win over Utah.

You would think that a team that is headed to their 4th consecutive Bowl trip, vying for their 4th consecutive Bowl win, who just clocked their 4th straight winning season wouldn’t need to do any sort of spin job to make people take notice. You would think that the fans of that program would be ecstatic, joyous, and football crazed after so many decades of futility. You would think a program that ranks 7th among the 62 teams with 13 or more Bowl appearances in terms of winning percentage would be the talk of the town. In Kentucky’s case this season, you would think wrong.

Those who don't believe... go stand in the corner

This isn’t the first time we’ve said it, it won’t be the last time we champion it, but the dream that Kentucky fans have had for years is finally coming to fruition, and yet, most in the fanbase approach the football Cats with an apathetic sort of indifference. They will point to the Mississippi State, Tennessee, and South Carolina games as empirical evidence that this team is unworthy of celebration. They will dream of what the record could have been had those three games resulted in Ws instead of Ls, and wistfully long for a 10-2 record instead of the respectable 7-5 that Kentucky ended up. Has Kentucky fans become copies of Notre Dame faithful? Have we forsaken the reasons for celebration in pursuit of the next brass ring, however unattainable it may currently be? Worse yet, have Kentucky fans become Louisville? Most Cardinal faithful sit by and watch their program transition from BCS Bowl penthouse to Big East outhouse in record epic time without so much as a care from the majority of their fanbase. Kentucky is going in the opposite direction, yet the fan result is ultimately the same.

On December 27th, Kentucky will face Clemson in Nashville at the Music City Bowl. Is this a premier Bowl destination? Traditionally, no. But let’s not lose sight of the opportunities this Bowl provides. All year long non-SEC fans have pointed to Kentucky and labeled them a middling mediocre team relegated to the margins in a power conference they do not belong in. In the Music City Bowl, Kentucky can showcase itself against a BCS conference runner up, and while the ACC is hardly the SEC, it is still an automatic qualifier and with several Top 25 programs. Kentucky can showcase its defense, its much maligned defense at times, against one of the most exciting and energizing players in college football in CJ Spiller. Minimizing Spiller will be challenging, but whether or not Kentucky can do it is not the primary question. It is whether or not doing it will matter in the eyes of our SEC peers.

As Kentucky’s 2009 season unfolded, and wins were achieved against Auburn and Georgia on the road, the feeling throughout the SEC blogosphere seemed always poised and ready to take a passing swipe at Kentucky as a fraud. Certainly their failure to beat Tennessee and Mississippi State contributed, but to base a season on two bad games is just as dangerous as basing it off two good ones. Was Kentucky the class of the SEC this season? Of course not. That mantle is reserved for Florida and Alabama. The second tier held for LSU and Ole Miss. It’s that third level, composed of the Tennessees, the Georgias, the South Carolinas and the Auburns that all seem hesitant to welcome any other members into their club. Will a Music City Bowl win change that? I can’t say for sure, but my guess is a resounding no.

So with the blog peers and the rest of college football decidedly content to relegate Kentucky to the Pile-O-Mediocrity, it becomes imperative for the fans of this program to rally. They, and they alone, will be responsible for championing this team, supporting this program, and standing behind the coaching staff that made it all possible. Grumbling about losses while ignoring the monumental wins, complaining about recruiting while forgetting the talent this staff has brought, and losing the current success for potential future bright spots and the hurry to get there is a disservice to the staff, the team, and the coaches that have brought Kentucky back from the ashes. The time to demand excellence will soon be upon us. For now, we should all be content to enjoy Nashville, support these Cats, and celebrate a 4th consecutive Bowl win.

Kentucky is No.1 in US for lung cancer deaths from Cigarettes!!!

More than 25 percent of Kentucky youths smoke cigarettes.  To no surprise, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in the January 23, 2009 issue of its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report that Kentucky has the highest death rate from smoking in the nation.

Yesterday I attended the Board meeting of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. I have served on the Foundation’s Board since 2003, most of that time serving as Treasurer. The Foundation was established in 2000 after then Attorney General, Ben Chandler challenged the conversion of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kentucky from a charitable mutual company to a shareholder-owned insurance company, now known as Anthem of Kentucky, part of Wellpoint/Anthem.

As an aside,  that is the last time I can remember a Kentucky AG actually doing something other than running for the next office. (Stumbo’s investigation of the Fletcher Administration’s hiring scandal, while aimed at inappropriate and perhaps illegal, activities, was motivated by his desire to be the next Governor in my opinion.)

In any event, the Foundation’s mission is simply put “…to address the unmet health care needs of Kentuckians”. The Foundation accomplishes this by making grants from the earning of its $50 million in investments to organizations across the Commonwealth. Two Board members, the Honorable William Engle III of Hazard and Carlos Marin of Morehead, completed their terms and were honored by the Board. Both made some brief comments about their service and the important work of the Foundation.

I have known both gentleman for over 25 years. I first met Bill Engle in 2004 when he served on the Board of Trustees of Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH). Bill served on the Finance Committee and I was a young auditor with Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst & Young). Bill is an attorney and currently is a circuit court judge in his home community of Hazard and Perry County.

Bill’s service to the Foundation began at its inception when he participated in the inital strategy meeting at Shakertown in 2000. He served on every committee of the Foundation and was the Chair before giving way to Carlos Marin. Bill has a country lawyer persona that belies a keen intellect and sharp sense of humor. His service, including Board service to ARH and the Kentucky Community and Technical College in Hazard, has been remarkable.

I met Carlos around the same time in Morehead, Kentucky. I admit his exact assignment escapes me today, but I believe he was involved with the Area Health Education Center. Again, I was the outside auditor for St. Claire Medical Center and I remember fondly having lunch in the hospital cafeteria with Bob Camuel (CFO), Don Battson (VP), Roger Russell and David Bolt (who coincidently is joining the Foundation Board.)

Those guys had great fun with me. Knowing that I grew up in Lexington, they found my then naiveté about eastern Kentucky to be quite entertaining. Once they invited me to play golf at the local club. As we left the hospital to go out to play, Don Battson asked me if I had my pistol. Surprised, I asked Don if he was carrying a pistol. He deadpanned that he wasn’t going to be the only guy on the course without a weapon. Those guys thought my incredulous look was quite funny.

Carlos always was amused by all those shenanigans, but always treated me with more respect than I probably deserved. In any event, Carlos is one of the unsung heros in Kentucky who has worked very hard to improve health education and access to care. He has been particularly passionate about the same topics as they relate to minority groups across the Commonwealth. Carlos takes his obligation to increase other’s knowledge of different cultures very seriously and recently enlightened my about the Quinceanera Celebration.  Carlos completed his service to the Foundation with a two-year term as Chair.

As I listened to both gentlemen yesterday, what struck me most was the commitment these two individuals have sustained to improving the health care system over such a long and eventful period of time. The departing comments were decidedly different in style, Bill’s were brief yet profoundly meaningful and Carlos was emotional and self-effacing, and had an impact on me and my fellow board members. I think those moments help other Board members “re-commit” to the work they are doing.

I am proud to have been associated with these two health care heros and to count them as friends.

Sid Fernando wrote an insightful post about some of the mating successes Spend a Buck found during his shuttle years to Brazil (1997 – 1998) and during his years there as full-time resident (2001 – 2002). (Read it here.) Sid also added illuminating information in a commentary on yesterday’s post about this horse.

Spend a Buck spent nine seasons covering seasons in Kentucky at Lane’s End, where he had a bit of success but not enough. The 1985 Horse of the Year was sent to stand in Texas from 1995 through 1998, with trips south to Brazil as a shuttle stallion in latter two years.

The Kentucky Derby and champion had been purchased by Weldon Granger, who stood him in Texas at McDermott Ranch, but for the 1999 season, Granger moved the horse to Louisiana to stand at Jay Adcock’s Red River Farm.

Adcock said, “Spend a Buck almost didn’t make it.”

After Spend a Buck had left the farm in Brazil and entered quarantine, “he got sick and nearly died,” Adcock said. “While in quarantine, actually the day he was supposed to ship, he ran a temp, and they couldn’t ship him. Things got worse from there on.”

Strange as it may sound, quarantine is a place for animals to be verified as healthy. It is not a place for them to get sick. By the time Spend a Buck had recovered from illness and shipped to Miami, he was seriously out of shape.

But Adcock got the horse to Louisiana and went to work getting him healthy and back in breeding condition. Given time (this was a 17-year-old horse), Spend a Buck came around and stood at Red River for three years.

Adcock said, “After the near-death experience, they didn’t shuttle him. Then the Brazilians came and made Mr. Granger an awful good offer.” It was too good to turn down, but due to the amazing success of Spend a Buck’s first two years in Brazil, Haras Bage do Sul made a very serious effort to get the son of Buckaroo back in the country for breeders, and they succeeded.

From 1999 through 2001, however, Spend a Buck was the celebrity stallion in Louisiana. Adcock said, “I had people come to the farm just to take a picture with Spend a Buck. He knew he was a celebrity, he was photogenic, and he had a world of class. He was a really grand horse to be around.

“He would go out in his paddock, which had access to a pond, and would go out into the pond and lay around. Nothing fazed him. He had mares not far away from him all the time, and it never bothered him. Spend a Buck was a class act.”

After the 2001 season in Louisiana, Spend a Buck went south to Brazil for the last time, covered a full season there in 2001, and then on 24 November 2002, part-way through the Southern Hemisphere breeding season, Spend a Buck died of anaphylactic shock from a penicillin injection.