That`s where the $80 million came from!

Last week, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback, Carson Palmer, told the press that he will never set foot in Cincinnati’s Paul Brown Stadium ever again. He said he has $80-million in the bank and is prepared to live his life beyond football. He only wants to play for fun and he can’t do that losing every year. If you’re the Bengals GM do you move this guy before this situation gets worse?

I still say it`s a pink centaur walking towards me in a menacing manner. I don`t care what Iran says.

Iran objects to the logo for the 2012 London Olympics, contending it is racist because it resembles the word “Zion.”  Iran is urging other Islamic states to oppose the “racist” logo and possibly even boycott the Games.  When you look at the logo what do you see?

Dome? We don`t want no stinkin dome. Oh wait, we do.

The Federal government of Canada sent out a notice this week across the country that it will not help fund professional sports facilities. The letter stated there is no program in place nor will one be started. This has stopped Saskatchewan’s plan for a new stadium and now Quebec City and Edmonton’s arena’s may be in trouble. Do you agree with the governments stance?

It no longer says 0 on Davies BYU jersey or his V-Card.

BYU men’s basketball team has dismissed star sophomore Brandon Davies from the team for reportedly admitting to having premarital sex with his girlfriend. The school’s honor code forbids students from engaging in this behavior.  Did the punishment fit the crime and should universities be allowed to dictate the personal lives of their students?

Picture, 1000 words, Bieber pillow to the balls.

The preseason isn’t even over and the Chicago Cubs are already fighting one another.  Reportedly, the fight started after Carlos Silva said “We gotta make some plays” and another player took it personally. Are fights between teammates ever good for team chemistry?

Islanders fighting = Wins. Correlation = Causation, right?

The NHL’s New York Islanders have been at the centre of controversy this past week as they amassed over 200 PIM’s against the Penguins, in a game where they dressed 6 enforcers. Coincidentally, the Islanders are now on a 4 game winning streak. Do you think their brawl mentality has brought this team together and contributed to their recent success?

Henry:  It clearly has.  When you lose as many games as the Islanders have this season, you take any victory you can.  Even as small as loading up with enforcers and beating down the team that posterized your delicate goaltender.  Way to go Islanders, you’ve now managed 7 wins in your last 10, and pissed off Mario Lemieux.

Dallas: Yes I do. They seem to have that “us against the world” type of mentality now and it’s working. However, they should have developed this persona a while back after discovering that nobody in the NHL, including the fans, care about the New York Islanders.

Ryan:  Sometimes when you get backed into a corner and have to either fight your way out or fold, it brings a team together. Without a doubt this team is now playing for each other and the results are showing it.

Now THAT is wife material!

Cedar Falls freshman, Cassy Herkelman, won her first wrestling match in the Iowa State high school tournament after Joel Northrup, decided to default for religious reasons.  Northrup in response to his default, released this gem of a statement.  “As a matter of conscience and my faith, I do not believe that it is appropriate for a boy to engage a girl in this manner.”  What is your take on this latest episode in the saga of women competing in men’s sports?

Dallas: This is a delicate situation and I can understand and sympathize with both sides, especially since they’re high school kids. However, as delicate as it is, this thing is the breeding grounds for hilarity. Rumour has it that the thought of wrestling a female competitor forced Joel Northrup to keep his hands in his spandex pockets for the next three hours!

Henry:  That is sick Dallas!  Of course I remember a time when uncontrolled erections was no laughing matter.  Those Sunday sermons when they told us of drowning people, burning bush and of course, the golden rule: Never fight a woman if there is a chance you may lose and others may see.  Thanks Church!

Ryan:  How awkward is this situation? If the boy wins he gets shame for beating a girl, if he wins he gets to feel the not so elated feelings of beating a girl. Well played by this young man to just avoid the situation all together.

Sure it would work in Vancouver. It's still not going to happen.

NBA commissioner, David Stern, called the Vancouver Grizzlies 6 year tenure in the league, his biggest regret. Conveniently, the New Orleans Hornets are looking for a new owner and home. Stern said earlier this week they are considering the Canucks Sports and Entertainment group in Vancouver. When will we see basketball back in Vancouver?

Ryan:  I think there is merit here. The NBA has for a while now struggled to find a stable owner for this franchise. They could do a lot worse than Canucks Sports and Entertainment, like contraction, so I’d say there is a chance we could see the NBA back in Vancouver.

Henry:  I think we are making a mountain of a mole hill here.  Stern said he regrets moving the Grizzlies too early, before they got a foothold.  That doesn’t mean he is going to make things right, he just plans on throwing it on the pile labeled mistakes.  Sorry Vancouver, the NBA still hates you.

Dallas: We won’t. How does Stern call the Grizzlies his biggest regret and finish off by commenting that they’re considering a move back there? How does that saying go? Fool me once, shame on you; fool me…we can’t get fooled again! – George W. Bush

This is a look of self-satisfaction like no other.

Here is Carmelo Anthony, small forward for the Denver Nuggets, with the quote of the week.  “I think it takes a strong-willed person, a strong-minded person, to deal with the stuff that I deal with.  I take my hat off to myself for dealing with all this stuff that’s going on and still be able to go out there and play at the high level that I play at.  I really don’t think an average person can walk in my shoes.  I don’t think that.”  Dissect.

Dallas: On a personal level, he has had to deal with some family issues which are always difficult. On a professional level, he’s causing all of the issues he’s had to deal with. “I take my hat off to myself.” Marvelous!

Henry:  I don’t think anyone ever has to say another nice thing about Melo, ever again.  He speaks of himself so highly, no wonder he doesn’t play defence.  I wonder if it is lonely for him all alone on that pedestal constructed of gold, diamonds, and dolla dolla bills?

Ryan:  This goes to show it is in fact his agent who is letting all the trade secrets out to the public. They’re the one’s trying to create all the ‘Melo Drama’ and I’m starting to think Carmelo has a like ‘Favre syndrome’ going on!

Okay Miguel, pull yourself together. Just smile big and explain to them who you are.

This past week, both Legedu Naanee, wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers, and Miguel Cabrera, 1st basemen for the Detroit Tigers, were arrested for alcohol related events.  While being taken into custody, both dropped the line, “Do you know who I am?”  When was the last time that line worked for you with the coppers?

Dallas: I can truthfully say that line has never worked for me and it’s not like I haven’t tried! Hell, it doesn’t even work on my wife when I’m trying to get out of cleaning the house. Apparently co-hosting a low-profile sports talk show in Winnipeg gets you absolutely no pull!

Henry:  It sounds like Cabrera, Naanee and Melo would get along together just fine.  I think Cabrera can drop this, Naanee however should probably hold off until he actually cracks a starting roster.  Wait a minute Dallas, Ryan promoted you to co-host?  This is bullshit!  Does he know who I am?

Ryan:  Two candidates for the biggest clowns away from their sport battled it out this week for stupidity supremacy! In one corner Legedu crossed a police line and started tampering with a crime scene whilst intoxicated. Meanwhile Miguel was pulled over for suspicion of DUI and after asking the deputy if he knew who he was, he decided now is the best time to take a sip of his refreshing Scotch. The winner for the biggest clown away from the game is………..they’re both losers!

I just woke up in a bathtub full of ice and my back is really sore.

Wake Forest baseball coach Tom Walter gave a kidney to a freshman player, Kevin Jordan, who suffers from a disease that can lead to kidney failure.  The young outfielder who was drafted by the New York Yankees last June, said no one in his extended family was a match for the operation. When Coach Walter found out he was, he didn’t hesitate. Wake Forest however, did hesitate, as they took a couple of days to ensure that this would not break an NCAA violation. Has the NCAA officially gone too far with their sanctions, that schools are looking into these types of selfless acts as violations?

Ryan: I find it pretty funny that the school thought to look into this as it may be a player receiving a gift from a coach. The NCAA is striking fear into schools when they start checking to see if the ‘gift of life’ is a violation or not.

Dallas: For once, the NCAA is not to blame. Wake Forest should not have taken any role in this except to maybe send some flowers to the hospital. Even if there were eligibility issues, the NCAA is not dumb enough to take on that PR nightmare!

Henry:  It says a lot about my poor character that my first reaction to this story was to think that Walter had some alterior motive for this benevolent act.  That aside, what a black eye for the NCAA and Wake Forrest if they had piped up with some objection.  Respect to Walter, a bigger man than I.  He must have endured at least 1 or 2 needles during this operation.

I can't defend him, so I may as well closeline him.

Call it Hack-a-Dwight or Break-a- Blake, the consensus way to stop Blake Griffin and other star NBA players, is to foul them hard.  With a high-flying superstar like Griffin, these fouls get dangerous very quickly as he is dragged back down to earth with an arm around his neck.  Are you okay with this defensive strategy?

Henry:  Blake Griffin is the type of player that gets no talent nerds, like myself, watching basketball.  If the NBA continues to allow goons to prevent Griffin from completing his exciting style of play, it should be slapped or at least miss a season due to a lack of a CBA.  This is the equivalent of the clutch and grab era in the NHL that cost hockey fans a decade of scoring and excitement.

Dallas: I am not unless the NBA decides to allow fighting in an effort to protect the star players in the same way the NHL does. Teams would start opening up roster spots to some of the best slappers in sport. That’s what I want to see, so I guess I am okay with it.

Ryan: Yes I’m okay with it! This is old school basketball from when Ewing, Olajuwon, and the Detroit Pistons ruled the court. There never was such a thing as a free pass to the basket. If you wanted to try and posterize us, you had to pay a price. LOVE IT!

I cry for the next generation of NBA fans.

Amidst rumours of turmoil between Utah’s coach of 23-years, Jerry Sloan, and star players Williams and Kirilenko, Sloan resigned. The National Basketball Association’s Hall of Fame coach was the longest-serving coach in American sports. Is this a result of ‘the decision’ we saw last summer, in that the power of decisions has shifted from organizations to players?

Ryan: The NBA is heading down a dangerous path right now and they know it. This is all leading up to the fact that there will NOT be an NBA season next year as owners will demand reduced salaries and limit freedom of free agents. Enjoy basketball this year while you still can.

Henry:  It really does seem like the players are in control of today’s NBA and maybe a long time coach like Jerry Sloan would rather retire than listen to punk 20 something players, who he has seen come and go like the weather during his long tenure as head coach.

Dallas: The NBA has become a star driven league by design; unfortunately for the NBA, it ain’t always good and you end up with too many prima donna personalities throughout the league. Seriously, these guys are officially worse than NFL wide receivers.

Maybe if I do it blindfolded, someone will notice.

UConn Quarterback Johnny McEntee posted a video on YouTube last Tuesday and it went viral, receiving more than 3 million views in 3 days.  The trick shot video shows Johnny Mac knocking balls and plates out of the air, making blindfolded completions, and draining throws into garbage bins and basketball nets from deep.  Are you buying this video as for real and will this player one day be a great quarterback?

Henry:  I’ve been had by video’s like this before.  I remember when I saw a video of Peyton Manning throwing a pick in the Superbowl.  It crushed me.  Only when someone handed me a tissue and told me it was faked, did I feel better.  This video looks legit and Johnny Mac has some skills!

Ryan: If he could show me this kind of accuracy with a moving, living target then maybe I’d buy it. However, this still is a very entertaining video.

Dallas: This video looks great but let’s face it, there’s gotta be a reason why he’s a backup quarterback at UConn. This guy would have to be the favourite to win the pass competition but I wonder how his punt and kick are.

Give us your "I just got a 500% raise smile"

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Ross Ohlendorf won the first arbitration case this year in Major League Baseball. He was awarded a raise from $439,000 to $2,025,000 following a 1-11 season last year. Does Pittsburgh’s general manager deserve to be fired for losing this case?

Dallas: He does deserve to be fired. I mean, with that kind of award for that kind of player, I just assumed the Pittsburgh’s general manager forgot to show up to court and present his case.

Henry: The Front office should get fired and Ohlendorf should be praised for getting paid!  Big O, as I call him, used traditional statistics to argue for his salary demands.  Someone should send the Pirates a copy of Moneyball and teach them about advanced metrics, where Big O’s inflated value becomes very apparent.

Ryan: Ohlendorf is a genius!  He steered clear of his record, arguing it was the team he was on and not a reflection of his performance. Instead he argued his ERA and compared it to others in the league that make around $2 million/year.

Pow! Right in the kisser.

In his 5 seasons since signing a 15-year, $67.5 million deal with the NY Islanders, goaltender Rick Dipietro has played in only 159 games. This week Dipietro and Penguins goalie Brent Johnson squared off during a line brawl.  Dipietro was blown up by a stiff left thrown by Johnson.  He is now expected to miss 4-6 weeks due to facial fractures. How upset must general manager Garth Snow be about this altercation?

Dallas: In 5 seasons Dipietro has played 159 games! That’s ridiculously shameful and I’m sure Garth Snow has already accepted that this is the reason he will eventually be fired. Actually, why hasn’t Garth Snow been fired yet? Is that franchise on cruise-control or what?

Ryan: He’s played 159 and missed 176 games! Up until now we’ve know that he’s had a glass knee, hip, groin, neck, and head but now I guess we can add face to the list!

Henry: This could be the best thing for the Islanders.  If they let 20-year-old Kevin Poulin play, he could gain some valuable experience.  In only 9 games this year, he has 3 wins.  Dipietro only had 7.  Poulin’s stats are even better, as he has posted a 93 save % and a 2.36 GAA.

You can't have the ball or my autograph!

A L.A. Laker ball boy was shot down by Kevin Garnett when asking for an autograph.  Kevin Garnett responded by saying “You’ve got a better chance of finding bin Laden” How would you have responded if you stood in the ball boy’s shoes?

Henry:  This has been a big season for KG.  He has now called a fellow player a cancer patient, slapped a dude in the tea bag, and now a poor choice of words for a ball boy.  If I was the ball boy I would’ve responded with; oh sorry, I thought you were Ray Allen.

Dallas:  I would have come back with something about a jerk store.

Ryan: Wow Henry you couldn’t have got that one any better I won’t even try to top that one. Anyone else realize the Lakers have been in the NBA Finals 7 of the last 11 years! Kevin Who?

Don't you ever talk ill of my son!

This Saturday, ex-NFL Quarterback and CBS sportscaster, Phil Simms, tried to fight Desmond Howard during the NFL Experience exhibit.  Howard had previously commented that Simms son Matt, was one of the worst QB’s in the SEC.  Who crossed a line here?

Ryan: Not the classiest move by the one time Saskatchewan Rough Rider. I get that you’re mad at the guy but not only are you a former NFL player but you’re now in broadcasting. Come on Phil I’d like to believe you’re better than that.

Dallas: Obviously Simms has crossed the line; however, I arrived at that conclusion only after I learned that broadcaster-on-broadcaster brawlin’ was not part of the NFL Experience! Maybe it should be, then this would be a non-issue.

Henry:  Simms should’ve pounded some logic and reason into Howard so that his son can get some props on Tennessee broadcasts.  I’ve got to realize that not everybody calls their fists logic and reason.

I'm just going to punch the air, if you get hit, it's your own fault!

In a fighting-filled week in the National Hockey League, we had several games with fights  in response to incidents earlier in the season. This includes the Boston/Dallas game where we saw 3 fights in the first 4 seconds of the game! Is this a case for the NHL to keep fighting in the game or eliminate it?

Ryan: I thought it was embarrassing. Premeditated garbage like this always rubs me the wrong way especially when after the game everyone involved pointed out that they did it because of what happened last time they played. Was this not one time a big NO NO in the NHL?

Henry:  They should definitely be keeping this kind of fighting.  This was so very entertaining and all over television.  Heated fights like this are terrific, lets just not fool ourselves and say that this is a necessary part of the game.  The fans were treated to a terrific sideshow.

Dallas: The league should be embarrassed for repeatedly allowing players to police themselves; it’s amateurish and careless. On the other hand, it did have a lot of major sports media outlets talking about hockey so I”m sure they’re fine with it.

He fell for the old "Tea pot" distraction.

College sports is all about creating a fun atmosphere for the fans at the games. This past week in a college basketball game between Nevada and Utah State, a man dressed as Mrs. Teapot stood behind the basket when Nevada was shooting free throws. This was the result. Is this kind of thing what makes people believe college sports are better than pro?

Henry:  The college fan atmosphere is far superior to the pro and this is a perfect example.  Who dresses up like the tea pot from Beauty and the Beast?  This guy caught everyone’s attention since his spout was at full attention.

Ryan: This might be one of the greatest things in all of sports. I love the atmosphere you get with college athletics because the true fans can afford to be at the games and they get involved in the action rather than going there just to be there.

Dallas: Freakin’ hilarious! Didn’t Prince where a similar costume when he performed at the Super Bowl a couple of years ago (check it out here)?

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After a lot of trash talk this past week, straight from the feet, ahh I mean heart, the Jets prevailed ending the Patriots season.  Did you enjoy the back and forth that ultimately ended in a warning from the NFL?

Henry:  I loved trash talk before this game.  Cromartie’s hate, Ryan’s personal throw down, and Welker’s witty counter.  No question the Jets trash talk worked as it resulted in the first series benching of Welker by Belichick.  The curtain call by Bart Scott after the game solidified this as one of the best exchanges of all time.

Ryan: Cromartie went too far but Wes Welker was the story of the week with one of the most brilliant press conferences of all-time where he mentioned feet 11 times without even a smirk!

Dallas: The teams talked a lot of trash, the NFL stepped in but they didn’t stop. They simply said the trash talk will be factored into any disciplinary action required for actions during the game. I loved it and so did the NFL. I definitely paid more attention to the games.

On Wednesday I received a Tweet from John Calipari, coach of the University of Kentucky, apologizing for his behaviour. Calipari was caught on tape calling one of his players a mother f’er. When was the last time you were motivated by cursing?

Henry:  I’m pretty sure I have been motivated by swearing both good and bad.  What age or league is this unacceptable though?  Can coaches of little league use this behaviour and be so quickly forgiven?  What if I do it?  Ryan you cocky piece of s*#@!  How does that make you feel?

Ryan: It happens in all NCAA sports because it is a business. Millions of dollars are on the line, for the coach with each win and the university, every time an NCAA team plays. This is so minute in comparison to what happens at practice…..BELIEVE ME!

Dallas: Ryan swears at me just before every show and it motivates the s*#@ out of me!

NASCAR changes scoring system, reads the headlines in every newspaper worth reading.  Ingeniously, they now plan on awarding points based on a teams finishing position. What were they doing before and does this contribute to your list of reasons for why you don’t watch NASCAR?

Henry:  I was under the impression that fans only watch NASCAR for the crashes, tailgating, and the excuse to get wrecked in a social environment instead of their front porch.  Why the attempt to legitimize the sport now NASCAR?  Why not cater to your fans and shoot more fireworks before and after the Kid Rock performance?

Dallas: I wish I could answer this question but seriously, what were they doing before? In a sport, and I use the term loosely (kidding!) that loves its spectacular crashes, why have they been awarding points based on consistency rather than wins? I am puzzled.

Ryan: NASCAR??? No I’m not answering a NASCAR question when we live in Winnipeg. NEXT!

A disputed goal was scored this week against the Los Angeles Kings that ultimately became the game winner.  The puck appeared to be contacted by a stick, well above the crossbar and yet the video review board awarded a goal, as did the officials on the ice.  L.A. King’s General Manager, Dean Lombardi, questioned the replay crew’s motivations because it was led by Mike Murphy, who was shot down for the Kings GM position in the off-season.  Should this have been a goal and should we question his integrity?

Henry:  I love that Lombardi said what everyone is always thinking.  Someone is out to screw me and it must be ummmm, you!  Don’t look internally at yourself or the organization that is falling apart.  Point your finger at the first person you see with even the weakest of motives and cry foul.

Dallas: I don’t want to answer that question. Instead, somebody answer this one for me:  is this a natural progression in a goal judge’s career, to become the GM of an NHL team? We should definitely question this guy’s integrity and I’ll bet he will no longer have a job come the weekend.

Ryan: This is a pretty intriguing story and I wish we’d get the NHL’s true findings on it but we never will. Lombardi getting a $50,000 fine makes me think he’s on to something.

The NFLPA launched a day of solidarity, January 18, 2011, on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook.  The goal of the day was to block the impending NFL lockout.  What effect, if any, do you think this will have on the NFL and its owners?

Dallas: None at all. If the NFLPA is relying on winning the sympathy vote with the fans and having that as their “ace up their sleeve” come negotiation time, I would not want to be an NFL player right now because you’re about to get screwed!

Henry:  I agree, this won’t have any effect, but it was impressive nonetheless as they achieved a trending status on Twitter, something Brett Favre`s junk came close to, but never quite achieved.  This was a creative way to draw attention to their plight, but fans already side with the players against the owners, this just confirmed that.

Ryan: Absolutely none! The NFLPA is doing this because they know they have NO leverage when it comes to the CBA. This is a desperate attempt in what is about to be a rough ride for the PA.

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With last monday night’s BCS Championship being won by Auburn University, who plays in the South Eastern Conference (SEC), the SEC has now won 5 straight BCS Championships.  Is it safe to say they are the greatest conference in all of NCAA football?

Dallas: It’s hard to argue when I honestly believe that two other teams in the SEC, Alabama and LSU, could have beaten Oregon. Okay, LSU is a bit of a stretch but you can’t underestimate Les Miles’ ability to accidentally win games.

Henry: Objectively?  Sure.  But I ask you, who really cares about “statistics” and “evidence” anymore anyway?  If the US can have a Kenyan born President, why can’t I cling to the belief that my Oregon Ducks and the Pac 10 are the best conference?

Ryan: You know what they say “winners win” and how can you possibly argue with anyone who’s won 5 straight national championships?

Haters of Bowl Championship Series unite!  The regular season of NCAA football ended on December 2, 2010.  The BCS Championship game was played almost 6 weeks later on January 10, 2011.  Should the Championship game be played in January, so long after the end of the regular season?

Ryan: The 35 day layoff for the national championship is ridiculous! The problem is that there are so many bowl games, if they make the finals earlier it condenses all the bowls and they start to overlap. That would mean each bowl gets less publicity and TV ratings. So it won’t happen.

Dallas: I heard this comment during the week and I completely agree with it: college football should not, and can’t, compete against the wildcard weekend of the NFL playoffs.

Henry:  If this were a league full of professionals, which I’m sure some would argue it is, then no the game shouldn’t be played in January, it should be in December.  However, last time I checked, these are still students who need to try and fit school work, midterms, and finals in around their football schedule.

Last week when the Chiefs were beaten by the Baltimore Ravens, an apparent feud between the Chiefs Offensive Co-ordinator, Charlie Weis, and Head Coach, Todd Haley reached a boiling point when Haley took the play-calling away from Weis at halftime.  The feud was in regards to Weis signing a deal with the Florida Gators prior to the game. At halftime the Ravens only held a three point lead. The Chiefs finished the game with 18 minutes time of possession and 161 net yards. Should coaches be allowed to sign with another organization during the season?

Henry: Yes they should be allowed, but we don’t have to like it.  If I were in Haley’s position, I would also think Weis was mailing it in for the most important game of my season.  I’d love to have faith in people in these situations, but I don’t.  Haley should’ve taken the play-calling away before the game.

Ryan: Coaches shouldn’t be allowed to interview for new positions whilst they are coaching a playoff run. It just seems like a bad idea to have a guy thinking about next year when he’s coaching your team in the playoffs.

Dallas: Coaches should be allowed to sign with teams while coaching another for this simple reason:  no coach would ever consider doing this! I can’t believe Haley let Weis near the stadium after his announcement.

The Carmelo Anthony trade rumors, which have been dubbed the “Melodrama”, heated up this week. Anthony, who is arguably one of the NBA’s elite players, has had his name mentioned as part of a possible 15 player trade that includes multiple teams. The Nuggets have told the Nets to be quiet about it or they will just ship Melo to the Knicks. If you’re the Nets, how serious do you take these threats from the Nuggets?

Dallas: I love this story! If I’m the Nets, I take this pretty seriously. Basketball in New York is back and when the Knicks are good, New York is a basketball city! The Nets need this trade just to get back to relevant in the NBA again.

Ryan: They aren’t about to go through 4 months of negotiating with the Nets and throw it away over this. The Knicks have nothing that interests the Nuggets and the Knicks aren’t about to panic. They’ll wait until the summer to sign Anthony rather than blow up their team to get him.

Henry:  Kids, never give into bullies.  The Nets however, need to shut up.  They are second last in their conference and last in their division.  They need Melo in the worst way.  If he is traded to the division rival Knicks, they will secure their last place for years to come.  Idle threat or not, they can’t afford that chance.

Is the most hated man in Minnesota taking his talents to South Beach? Former Vikings coach Brad Childress, who was fired this year after a 3-7 start, is to interview with the Miami Dolphins this week for their vacant offensive co-ordinator position. Is this a good move for the Dolphins?

Henry: Great move!  Now they can have two coaches on their staff that nobody respects!  Childress couldn’t get the job done with Adrian Peterson, Sidney Rice, and Joe Webb!  He can’t be the guy to turn around the Dolphins awful franchise.

Dallas: No, this is not. The Dolphins were clear where they stood with current coach Tony Sparano when they recently tried to hire another head coach while he was still employed! Now they’re choosing his offensive coordinator. Tony Sparano is doomed for failure in 2012.

Ryan: The sexy thing to do in the NFL is hire former head coaches as co-ordinators because teams like New Orleans, Atlanta and yes even the Dolphins defense lead by Mike Nolan, have had success by doing so. Problem is, not everyone works out.  Childress won’t.

The Toronto Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson put ‘money on the board’ for inspiration for his team to win. The win would ultimately give Wilson the 600th of his career. Apparently players often ‘put money on the board’ when playing former teams or teammates. In those cases usually whoever scores the game winning goal gets the money. The NHL has fined the Toronto Maple Leafs for this action as it is against league policy for coaches to put ‘put money on the board’. Do you have a problem with what Ron Wilson did?

Dallas: Yeah, I do have a problem with this. Unfortunately, boys, especially boys with a lot of money, will still be boys and continue with this ridiculous behavior. Does Ron Wilson regret any of this? Probably not. Will he be a little more discrete next time? Probably yes.

Ryan: I have a probem with players doing this too! Is this not illegal gambling? I think the NHL may want to take a closer look at this a perhaps institute a no breaking federal laws rule into their rule book even when at the rink.

Henry: There is no problem here.  Dallas and Ryan would ban paper-rock-scissors and go fish if they could.  What’s worse is that there is a policy in place to ban this harmless tradition.  Next they will ban puns, sunglasses in doors, and our freedom!  While I’m at it, if Wilson put the money on the board, why did he take it?

The Auburn Tigers will take on the Oregon Ducks in the BCS title game on Monday

Finally, after years of SEC and PAC-10 supporters claiming NCAA football dominance, the top teams in each conference will face-off in the national championship game. This game will feature the top two teams in college football as the Auburn Tigers take on the Oregon Ducks. Who are you taking to win the game?

Ryan: I have like the Ducks as a program for years now so it hurts to say that Auburn will win. Cam Newton is special just like Vince Young was special when he single handily led Texas to a national championship over the heavily favored USC.
Dallas: These SEC people are really starting to annoy me. Also, the over/under is currently listed at 74 points. I would take the over even if it was listed 100 points!
Henry:  I’m a Duck man myself.  I love everything the Ducks do and I think it is the Chip Kelly system that will wear down and eventually cause the Tigers to succumb to the Ducks persistent offensive onslaught.  My prediction:  Tigers up early, Ducks come from behind to win just like the Russians.

Future Hall of Fame quarterback and media darling Brett Favre continues to make headlines by showing off his sleaziness. Favre was slapped with a couple of lawsuits filed on the behalf of former members of the New York Jets staff.  One of the lawsuits was brought forward by a Jets game day hostess and the other by a couple massage therapists on the training staff. Will this tarnish Favre’s legacy?

Dallas: Usually incidents like these are quickly forgotten with a few wins. Favre won’t likely have the opportunity to put up a few new wins any time soon so the only thing fans are going to be able to do is look at the old tapes. He’ll be fine and this whole thing will be forgotten about in weeks.
Henry:  If only.  Most football fans follow the game, through Favre colored lenses.  I hope that all these indiscretions mount together to knock him off the pedestal.  There are far too many great players out there to idolize (ie. Peyton Manning), for fans to waste their time on dirtbags like Favre.
Ryan: It should but won’t. In sports we quickly forget about a player’s legal issues and focus on their athletic achievements. The Jets hostess lawsuit left the news quickly and so will this.

LeBron and D-Wade have got the Miami Heat rolling through the easier parts of the NBA schedule

After a dissappointing 8-8 start to the 2010-11 NBA season, the Miami Heat seem to have found their stride as they have now won 19 of their last 20. The ‘Big 3’ of Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh finally seem to have figured out how to work together to produce wins. Is it time to hoist the Miami Heat as championship favourites?

Henry:  The Heat and Celtics have to be the favourites for the Eastern Conference champs.  The Heat are 2nd in defensive points allowed and lead the league in PPG differential.  I’m no math major but if I do the calculations:  Spectacular O + Stifling D = Championship!
Ryan: I think it is although I don’t believe they have the big men to defend a team like the Boston Celtics or the Orlando Magic in a 7 game series. None the less, an impressive streak.
Dallas: The NBA always has six or seven contenders and usually these teams are very good and can beat any of the other teams on any given night. I did take note of this winning streak but nobody ever judged a teams place in history based on wins in December and January.

Blake Griffin has been dunking over everybody this season!

Blake Griffin, the first overall draft pick in the 2009 NBA draft, has been nothing short of spectacular in the 2010-11 season after sitting out his rookie season with an injury. Griffin has been a nightly visitor on highlight reels across North America with his emphatic dunks and was recently named a contestant in this year’s annual NBA all-star game slam dunk competition. Does anyone else besides Blake Griffin even stand a chance in this thing?

Ryan: Griffin pulled off the ‘Dwight Howard superman dunk’ that won the 2007 dunk competition. The only difference was that Griffin did it during a game whist jumping over a dude! He already has my vote!
Dallas: No. Griffin is a beast and will win the competition with a couple of dunks. However, even with him in the competition, I will not be participated as a specatator. Hasn’t everything been done already?
Henry:  He’s going against JaVale McGee, Brandon Jennings, and Serge Ibaka.  Only Jennings, nicknamed “Young Money” stands less than 6’10” tall, so he naturally gets my vote and support.  I’m hoping he pulls out an homage to Spud Webb with a 180-degree reverse two-handed strawberry jam.

Canada was dominating the gold medal game of the U-20 World Hockey Championships against Russia as they carried a 3-0 lead into the third period. In the third, Russia scored two goals in 11 seconds and carried that momentum into a 5-goal third period to upset Team Canada. How big of an impact will this loss have on hockey in Canada?

Henry:  It shouldn’t have any negative impact.  What it should do is continue to re-inforce that this is one area of sport development that Canada does well, or at least better than others.  We should be thrilled that our team was able to place 2nd and be fueled to win next year by the loss.
Ryan: No big deal to me. They have appeared in 10 straight gold medal games and, to be honest, it’s better for the tournament if we don’t win them all.
Dallas: About as big of an impact as the gold medal game where Marc-Andre Fleury essentially scored that own-goal and cost Canada the gold against the US. It won’t be remembered for long, which is a good thing. We all love the tournament but these are still kids. Everybody gets a free pass.

Andrew Luck was projected to be the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft

After an impressive Stanford win over Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl, Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck announced that he will skip the NFL draft and return to college for his junior year. Luck, who has two years of eligibility remaining, finished second in Heisman voting this past season and likely would have been the first overall pick in the 2011 draft, which includes a pretty hefty payday. Is Andrew Luck Making the right decision?

Ryan: I think it is the right decision. He’s a great quarterback that made a not so good school relevant. With all the uncertainty over the NFL’s labour deal, there’s reasonable doubt there will even be an NFL football season next year. Smart move and hey, he’lll go first overall in the 2012 draft.
Dallas: Of course Luck is making the right decision and do you know who couldn’t be happier? The NCAA. A story about a football player doing good rather than another “I want to get pizaid!” story. We need more of these.
Henry:  Luck is in the fortunate situation that money doesn’t have to dictate his decisions as his family has it and he doesn’t have their weight on his back.  He can get his degree, solidify his future, continue to grow as a person, improve his skills, have more fun at college, and then enter the draft.

The Golf Channel is looking for interesting ways to increase their viewership

The Golf Channel announced this week that they will be asking PGA athletes to be miked up during tournaments during the 2011 season. The Golf Channel says it’s a move that is long overdue and that golf is years behind every other sport in its television product. Does this at all raise your interest level on watching golf on TV?

Ryan: I agree it is probably long over due for golf to try and expose more of who their athletes are. I think it is indeed a step in the right direction I just don’t know if this one move will create a better viewing product.
Dallas: I love this! I have been saying for months that things like HD tv and 3D tv don’t grow viewership, they simply enhance the product for existing viewers. Ideas like this can generate new viewers.
Henry:  This to me is the move that could get me to watch and enjoy more Golf on TV.  The possibility of getting to listen to Weir, Woods, or Watson show some personality, drop some F-bombs, and explain their decisions excites me.  Think of all the slips that will make it on Twitter.
Singer:

After shocking Canada in the gold medal game at the 2011 World Junior Hockey Championship, the Russian hockey team was not allowed to board the flight back to Russia. The airline said their behavior was too ‘unruly’ and that many of the players and team staff members were intoxicated. Should we just chalk this one up to “boys will be boys”?

Dallas: Boys will be boys. Besides, seeing the Russians celebrate their well-deserved gold medal to this extent may actually be good for the tournament in terms of growing some more rivalries.
Henry:  My guess is that it was a Canadian flight crew still steaming from the loss.  I’m also going to guess that none of those left behind were that upset at getting to stay.  I can just hear their cheer after getting turned around at the tarmac, “Back to the Champagne room!”
Ryan: We all know what goes on in the ‘Champagne room’!

Grey Cup predictions!   The Montreal Alouettes and the Saskatchewan Roughriders will face off in 98th Grey Cup in Edmonton.  Who you got taking home the hardware?

The Saskatchewan Roughriders will battle the Montreal Alouettes in the 98th Grey Cup in Edmonton

Dallas: I’ll take the Riders.  Montreal continuously has problems when they travel out west, a point Ryan shares with me every time we talk Als football.  The Riders have a chance to make up for last year and they’re not even going to have to play their best game to do it.
Ryan: I’m taking the Riders, they avenge last years disappointing loss in a big way and beat a much better team in the Alouettes as they once again squeeze the ball to tight in a big game.
Henry: Calvillo looked in fine form against the Argo’s last weekend, he should be able to continue.  Even if the Riders can stop the pass, the Als have Cobourne back to pick up any loose slack.  I expect the Als to win another close one this weekend.
Singer: Alouettes Win. 35-28.

The circus in Minnesota continues as the Vikings fired head coach Brad Childress this past week.  One clown is gone, how long until the other clown steps aside and allows Tavaris Jackson to take over his position at quarterback?

Ryan: By playing out the year Brett is not doing himself, nor the Vikings a favour. Take the pressure off Frazier and end the streak and the madness yourself Brett! No one wants to watch you under perform then see Frazier defend you  in the media because of what you did last year.
Henry: I don’t see Favre stepping down any time soon.  He’s the last person to realize that his time in the league is done.  Frazier, won’t bench him as he will do anything to lock up the Head Coaching gig.  If Favre and the Vikings start winning, it will be 1 more reason to hate them.
Singer: Favre is horrible but Jackson is even worse. At least this way teams have to pretend to respect the pass and AP still has a chance.
Dallas: The end of the season.  There is no way Favre is going to miss a game the rest of the season.  We all know how much this guy loves revenge.  He has an opportunity to make Childress look like an idiot and he’s not going to pass that up for anything.

Joey Votto of Toronto, Ontario was named MVP of the National League

The Cincinnati Red’s Joey Votto became just the third Canadian major leaguer to win an MVP award, joining Larry Walker and Justin Morneau.  Will this help to increase production of Canadian talent entering into and being successful in the MLB?

Henry: I have to believe that a big time win like this for a Canadian player will inspire some young players in Canada to become better and know that there is a way they can do it.  That path won’t be available to all, but hopefully this will make it easier to see.
Singer: Nope. Baseball is too far down the list for an MVP award to make Canadians care, let alone play. Ask Steve Nash
Dallas: Man, Canada produces some fine baseball players.  So long as there are absolutely no follow up questions as to how it will increase Canadian content in the MLB, I will say yes.
Ryan: I think this will inspire the baseball players of Canada but I don’t see how it could grow it at the grass roots level like when the Jays won the World Series. With Votto playing in Cincinnati who in Canada even saw this guy take a swing this year?

Are Vince Young's days with the Titans numbered?

After a Tennessee Titans overtime loss to the Washington Redskins, Titans quarterback Vince Young threw this shoulder pads and jersey into the stands in a tantrum.  In the dressing room, things between Young and Fisher heated up and Young told Fisher, “I’m not walking out on the team, I’m walking out on you!”  Are Young’s days numbered in Tennessee?

Singer: Fisher has done too much for the Titans to side with Vince. It just makes sense for them to choose the guy that is less likely to drive his car over a cliff after being called a really hurtfull name.
Dallas: I love the relationship between Fisher and Young.  Young calls in phony suicide attempts, he throws tantrums, heck, I’ll bet he’s even tried smoking behind the team trailer.  Parents with teenagers don’t have to deal with nearly as much drama as Fisher does.
Ryan: Zing! Take that Jeff Fisher you big meany! Realistically though Young is done for the year but he will be the starting quarterback for the Titans next year, the change will be Jeff Fisher coaching elsewhere. Not because of Young but because it is time for him to move on.
Henry: Young’s days are numbered in Tennessee.  He’s out for the year, he’s not allowed in the Titans facilities or team meetings, and it is going to cost the Titans around 12 mil for him next year.  Vikings example from this year notwithstanding, coaches generally win these petty battles.

The Colorado Rapids celebrate their 2010 MLS Championship

The MLS Championship game was played in Toronto this past week.  The Colorado Rapids won their first MLS title as they downed FC Dallas by a score of 2-1 in extratime.  Did you get everything you wanted out of the 2010 MLS season?

Ryan: Never followed MLS until Toronto got a team and I will get everything out of it I will ever need when they win the championship or even get over .500. WHY DO ALL OF TORONTO’S SPORTS TEAMS STINK?
Henry: Yes and no.  TV ratings actually decreased 12% this year on ESPN but I learned about Canadian soccer and its involvement in the MLS.  Having the Toronto FC and now the Vancouver Whitecaps in the league could do great things for out soccer development.
Singer: The MLS had another successful season of staying off most TV and out of the Highlights. For that, I thank you MLS.
Dallas: And more!  Actually, I must confess that I don’t follow the MLS like I used to.  When did Colorado get a team?

Should WR Mike Williams, of the Tampa Bay Bucanneers, have been allowed to play this past weekend despite being pulled over for a suspicion of DUI charge?

Henry: For the supposed DUI charge no, for swerving in and out of traffic and getting pulled over, yes.  Once in the NFL, players must recognize the responsibility they have to their fans and avoid situations like this.  I’m sure its a lot to expect of a 23 yr old who just got paid, but I do.
Singer: I would say that it is unfair to punish without conviction, but Williams already has a troubled history. Really, how long can the NFL wait to act?
Dallas: Unfortunately, I can’t argue that it’s fair to punish somebody if they haven’t been convicted so I agree with the NFL steering clear of this thing for now.   The team however, they should have handed out some punishment and who knows, maybe they did.
Ryan: The NFL never rules until the courts do. I’m just sick and tired of these young athletes thinking they shouldn’t have to conform to the laws of society. I wish the NFL would step up their punishments for off-field issues like the did for illegal hits on the field.

Will Derek Jeter be playing for the New York Yankees in 2011?

Derek Jeter, the long time New York Yankee captain, is a free agent for the first time in his career.  Unfortunately for Jeter, he’s coming off his worst statistical season of his career but he doesn’t believe that should affect his value. Jeter is insulted by the Yankee’s 3-year/$45 million contract offer and believes his contributions to the organization are worth closer to $120 million (over 6 years).  To make matters worse, negotiations have become very public and very nasty which has created a stalemate between the two sides.  Who should budge first, Jeter or the Yankees?

Singer: Who Cares! Pay him 30 Million a year if he wants. He sells jerseys and it’s not like you are gonna run into cap issues. Since when did money matter to the Yankees? If he sucks then buy him out and sign the next big stud that comes along.
Dallas: On a certain level, the Jeter needs the Yankees and the Yankees need Derek Jeter. If I were the Yankees, I would pay Jeter the money he wants on one condition:  he agrees to play the outfield or first base.
Ryan: Jeter has a market value around 3-years $21 million but the Yankees graciously offered 3-years/$45 million. Why hasn’t he signed yet? DELUSION IS RUNNING HIGH!
Henry: Jeter is not worth even 10 million in the open market as a player, but that is not how this is being handled.  He is viewed as Mr. Yankee, therefore compensate him as such.  Make him a partner, give him stock, keep him in your organization as a figurehead, but don’t overpay him!

Wade Phillips was fired by the Dallas Cowboys after an embarrassing 45-7 loss to the Green Bay Packers

The Dallas Cowboys fire Wade Phillips! What is the biggest challenge the Cowboys face going forward?

Ryan – Their offensive line stinks. They have good running backs, not great, but good enough where they should be able to run the ball. The line can’t protect well and the Cowboys can’t run the rock. Jerry Jones will address this in the off-season.
Singer – How can you expect to win the Superbowl with a bad o-line and an ancient secondary?
Dallas – This team is beyond a write-off!  At least we were all right on the NFL preview show when we couldn’t figure out why everybody was talking Cowboys.  I’m also sick of hearing how talented this team is because they aren’t.

Cam Newton may be in trouble with the NCAA and may not have as much eligibility as he once thought he did.

Stories of Cameron Newton, quarterback for the Auburn Tigers,  allegedly demanding money to sign with Auburn keep coming out! How much truth do you think there is in the allegations that he asked for up to $200,000 for his signature on a letter of intent?

Dallas – This is a weird one.  Post Reggie Bush returning the Heisman, I would say there is no way anybody comes even close to considering doing such a stupid thing.  However, this allegedly did not happen post-Bush, this happened pre-Bush.  Whether he did or did not, the system is broken.
Ryan – Why do it? Money.  Actually, $200,000 sounds like a lot of money to sign but there is an even bigger pay day for many players once they graduate courtesy of the boosters.  Play for a couple years, win a Heisman or conference championship and you’ll get paid!

The NHL is doing some pretty interesting stuff with their all-star game.

The NHL changed its all-star game format from Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference to electing two captains and having them pick their team. Is this a good move for the NHL?

Dallas – This is a brilliant move!  Only one thing could make this better.  At the skills competition, put every player at centre ice in all their gear except jerseys.  Mic the captains and have them pick their teams by calling players over to their side.  Do it right in front of everybody!
Ryan – BUSH LEAGUE!!!! Only Dallas and Gary Bettman think this is brilliant!

Singer – The all star game is boring anyway. if it brings a little more intensity then run with it.  It won’t though.

The most hyped basketball team of all-time, the Miami Heat, are off to a 5-4 start with losses to the Hornets, Jazz and Celtics (twice). Is it time to panic in Miami?

Ryan – I think they just need time to sort it all out. It’s not going to happen over night but it’s interesting to see almost a natural divide occuring between Wade and James.  It seems like when one takes over a game, the other is no longer involved.
Singer - Not only are they disfunctional but every team wants to prove something when they play the Heat.  They are getting exploited and the normal gelling period is causing havoc.

Dallas – The Heat have two of the league’s top 5 players and arguably 3 of the league’s top 10, well, maybe 15.  In all of that, they don’t have a point guard and it’s killing them!  Now they require either Lebron or D-Wade to change their game to fill in the holes.  Is Lebron still counting how many championships the Heat are going to win?

Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lighting is off to another hot start.

In 15 games this NHL season, Steven Stamkos is off to an incredible start. He’s posted 14 goals and 12 assists putting him on pace for 142 points this year. Is this simply a great start or is this kid for real and will he be there at the end of the season?

Ryan – This kid is for real! He is a stud on and off the ice.  Apparently he works out in the off-season with Gary Roberts, a guy who’s career was based on his intense workouts and diets, who said this guy is the hardest worker he’s ever seen.  Several players worked out with Stamkos and Roberts throughout the summer and said Stamkos was in a league of his own during the lifts. He will win the Art Ross this year!

Dallas – He is a stud!  If this guy was in any other city besides Tampa Bay…Miami, Columbus, Anaheim, Raleigh, Phoenix, well, if he was in any other city that could drum up any kind of media coverage, he would be one of the top stories in sports!

This week ESPN’s 30 for 30 was about Marcus Dupree: “The Greatest That Never Was” with the focus being on college athletes receiving “gifts” illegally (check out some Marcus Dupree game footage here or check out the ESPN 30 for 30 site here, seriously, this stuff is awesome!).  If you were the NCAA, how do you go about regulating players receiving money from schools, program supporters, and agents?

Dallas – This is going to sound out there but here’s how you do it:  You start up a separate league, one that has nothing to do with school.  There are too many athletes in college or university just to play sports.  Give them a choice and a lot of these issues would go away.
Ryan – NFL needs to regulate THEIR agents and I think players should be allowed to receive some financial compensation. Their should be a salary cap that only allows them to receive a max $1000/month.

To say the New Jersey Devils $100 million man, Ilya Kovalchuk, is struggling might be the understatement of the season

The New Jersey Devils big free agent signing over the summer, Ilya Kovalchuk, was the final shooter in a shoot-out vs. Buffalo.  Not only did Kovalchuk not score, he didn’t even get a shot off (check out the video right here)!  Now that we’re well into the NHL season, how do you rate this signing?

Dallas – Since this is the first time the Devils have actually paid for a big free agent and there’s nothing to compare it to, I can’t call it the worst but can’t call it the best either.  Lou Lamoriello is going to lose his job over this one.  What an absolute waste!
Ryan – The worst part is they already played one game this year with just 15 players because of cap issues now Zach Parise is a restricted free agent next year! They better have space to sign him too, I’d rather have him play centre for me the Kovalchuk play the wing.
Singer – How can you not call it the worst. This signing will destroy the devils franchise for the next 5 years or more. It’s a capped league where you win through the draft and smart contracts. It’s ok Lou, Toronto will be happy to have you