2014 NFL Top 10 Power Rankings: Week 4

1. Seattle Seahawks: (2-1)
2. Denver Broncos: (2-1)
3. Cincinnati Bengals: (3-0)
4. Arizona Cardinals: (3-0)
5. San Diego Chargers: (3-1)
6. Baltimore Ravens: (3-1)
7. Detroit Lions: (3-1)
8. San Francisco 49ers: (2-2)
9. Dallas Cowboys: (3-1)
10. Philadelphia Eagles: (3-1)

Iman Shumpert and the New York Knicks are far Apart in Negotiating

 

New York Knicks shooting guard Iman Shumpert is entering his fourth season with the team, and he knows it's do or die. His last season's numbers were just down right pathetic in every shape or form. A shooting guard that plays 74 games with 58 starts shouldn't be averaging 6.7 points. I'm still not over it, even though it was last season. I guess when you're a die hard Knicks fan you just break down everything to a tee.

Iman Shumpert and the New York Knicks are nowhere close to a contract extension and rightfully so. This is a great move by the Knicks, something I rarely say to often because of the past. But why would you give Shumpert that extension, he hasn't earned it. By the look of things, the New York Knicks might just trade him in a couple of months anyway. It would behoove them to build him up as much as possible to see what they can get in return.  

I personally don't believe that Iman Shumpert can ever be the same player he once was back in his rookie season. The reason I say that is because of that surgically repaired knee. He can go on record all he wants and say that it's fixed and it's 100%. I say he's talking a good game to the media. Last offseason he had some work done to the same knee.

I've seen this story play out too many times in the NBA for me to say that Shumpert is going to be a hell of a player. I'm not that confident in the young neophyte, that he can be the missing piece to get us to the championship. I use to really like his defense intensity against the opposition, but who knows what we're getting this season.

The New York Knicks are playing their cards right, by waiting and seeing how Shumpert progresses in the new system with first year head coach Derek Fisher. If Shumpert can shine and upgrade his play at guard, the Knicks may just bring him back next season. The Knicks have until now and October 30 deadline to offer an extension. If not, Shumpert will become a restricted free agent in 2015.

The New York Knicks are not trying to have any major financial obligations, because they want to have cap space for 2015 and 2016. Knicks fans want to see Iman Shumpert become the player that he knows he can be. Let's hope he can help the Knicks get to the next level and not just a 8th seed in the playoffs. We'll just have to wait and see on how this unfolds in Gotham City.

Larry Donnell: The New York Giants Diamond in the Rough

The New York Giants just might have found there diamond in the rough. Tight end Larry Donnell is the Giants 6'6" player out of Grambling State. He went undrafted in 2011, and then was picked up by the team a year later. This season Donnell became the starting tight end for the New York Giants and he's giving them high quality performances so far. He's leading the team with 25 receptions and 4 touchdowns.

Nobody seen this coming, but the New York Giants did. Coach Coughlin and crew saw the potential in this former high school basketball player out of Alabama. He's not just tall, but he has athleticism and speed to go along with it. With Larry Donnell's development and potential, he can do some great things for this organization. I don't want to jump ahead and say playoffs and championship just yet, but if the Giants and Donnell keeps playing this way, anything can happen.

This is what the New York Giants needed this season. Some no name player that can take the city by storm. In just a month Larry Donnell is becoming a fan favorite and star. That just validates when you believe in yourself and stick to your dream, nothing can stop you. I love this kind of story coming out of the Giants camp.

Coming into the season the New York Giants offense was a big question mark. Nobody thought that they would really have a true successful season. I mean the fans always hope for it, but in the back of their minds they know what was realistic. Donnell just reminds me of how Victor Cruz came on the scene and took the NFL by storm by his route running and his "salsa dance". I don't think Larry Donnell has those kind of moves, but he won't need them as long as he keeps up the great work.

The Tribute: Just Another Night on the Job

This is just an ordinary night for Los Angeles Clippers superstar Blake Griffin. He always finds a way to get a poster dunk on some NBA player. With every dunk, he places himself in a category of being one of the best dunkers of all-time. Today's poster, as we're having a hard time seeing the victim, is NBA journeyman Dorell Wright of the Portland Trail Blazers. Wright didn't even try to contest it, he just ducked for cover. Unbelievable!

Rajon Rondo: You Keep Him, We Don't Want Him

The Boston Celtics star point guard Rajon Rondo does it again. This time he breaks his left hand at home in his shower on Thursday. Rondo alleges to the team that it was just a slip and nothing more. It just seems a bit strange when a public figure is hurt, that's the first thing they can come up with. He could be telling the truth or maybe not.
 
But that's not the point of this story. With Rajon Rondo in the last year of his contract, he will be looking for a big payday and I hope that the New York Knicks don't bite. We know the Knicks are notorious for giving out big bucks to star players that are injury prone. I don't want this to happen again, or just anytime soon.

Rajon Rondo is a great point guard when he's on the court, but in the last two seasons he's missed 92 games in total because of his knee ligament tear. I was a big fan of this "young hot head", but maybe his best days are behind him at 28. Who knows how his knee is holding up today. But with this latest news of a broken hand, we can do without him in the next free agency.

There are a lot of fans out there that would love to have this point guard running their team, and I use to be one of them as well. But the question is, can he stay healthy long-term? Nobody can answer that question, even Rondo can't. But what I do know is that, I don't want the New York Knicks to offer him a max contract for his services. Come on people, we all know Rondo is looking to cash in this upcoming 2015 free agency.

Rajon Rondo will be out for 6-8 weeks recovering from his surgery that was conducting today. This whole thing just puts another bump in the road for the team. They'll be looking to trade him once he's healthy and before the deadline. The Boston Celtics will be displaying his talents this winter, in hopes they can get something back worthwhile. I think the Knicks can do without him, even if that means he can prove the naysayers wrong.

NHL 2014-2015 Season Power Rankings

1. Anaheim Ducks
2. Boston Bruins
3. Pittsburgh Penguins
4. Colorado Avalanche
5. Los Angeles Kings
6. Chicago Blackhawks
7. St. Louis Blues
8. New York Rangers
9. San Jose Sharks
10. Montréal Canadiens
11. Tampa Bay Lightning
12. Philadelphia Flyers
13. Minnesota Wild
14. Columbus Blue Jackets
15. Detroit Red Wings
16. Dallas Stars
17. Washington Capitals
18. Ottawa Senators
19. Phoenix Coyotes
20. New Jersey Devils
21. Toronto Maple Leafs
22. Nashville Predators
23. New York Islanders
24. Winnipeg Jets
25. Vancouver Canucks
26. Carolina Hurricanes
27. Calgary Flames
28. Edmonton Oilers
29. Florida Panthers
30. Buffalo Sabres

2014 MLB Baseball Top 10 Power Rankings

1. Los Angeles Angels: (98-61)
2. Baltimore Orioles: (95-63)
3. Washington Nationals: (92-65)
4. Los Angeles Dodgers: (91-68)
5. Detroit Tigers: (88-70)
6. St. Louis Cardinals: (88-71)
7. Pittsburgh Pirates: (86-72)
8. Kansas City Royals: (86-72)
9. Oakland Athletics: (86-72)
10. San Francisco: (85-73)

2014 MLB CY Young Award Race

 

American League:

1. Felix Hernandez, Mariners
2. Jon Lester, Athletics
3. Matt Shoemaker, Angels
4. Corey Kluber, Indians

National League:

1. Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers
2. Adam Wainwright, Cardinals
3. Johnny Cueto, Reds
4. Zack Greinke, Dodgers   

2014 NFL Top 10 Power Rankings: Week 3

1. Philadelphia Eagles: (3-0)
2. Cincinnati Bengals: (3-0)
3. Seattle Seahawks: (2-1)
4. Denver Broncos: (2-1)
5. Arizona Cardinals: (3-0)
6. San Diego Chargers: (2-1)
7. Atlanta Falcons: (2-1)
8. Detroit Lions: (2-1)
9. New England Patriots: (2-1)
10. Baltimore Ravens: (2-1)

The Grant Hill Story: What Could’ve Been

  

In 1994, a star was born in the NBA, and that man was Grant Hill from Duke University. He was drafted with the third overall pick by the Detroit Pistons in 1994, with the likes of Jason Kidd and Glenn Robinson. The bar and expectations was set very high for this young clean-cut college star. Just coming off of a NCAA All-American selection and championship, the NBA was very aware they had a star approaching its league.

In the mid 90's, you could see Grant Hill everywhere, from Sprite and Fila commercials. Hill had it all, from the riches, fame, respect and popularity. He was the golden boy of that era, and whatever he touched turned to gold. Grant Hill was paid very handsomely for his services. Hill made over $140 million throughout his 19 year career. In that time, $100 million contracts weren't given so loosely as it is now.
 
Back then, there was a lot of jealousy from players towards Grant Hill because of his fame and fortune. But when you're that rich, who cares what they think of you, because you're laughing straight to the bank. Hill didn't worry about that. He was the type of player that wanted to get along with everyone.

He was a modern day role model for kids across the country. Hill let you know that it was cool to go to college and graduate. Everyone wanted to be like him in every way possible. Grant Hill never got into any trouble off the court throughout his NBA career.
 
In the first six seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Grant Hill was a triple-double threat waiting to happen. He was healthy and by far considered one of the best in the game. Then it happened, Grant Hill's career would never be the same. In the 2000 playoff game against the Miami Heat, Hill had to be sidelined because of a sprained ankle. That's when all his injury problems began.
 
Grant Hill was a free of that summer and chose to sign with the young up-and-coming Orlando Magic starring Tracy McGrady. The goal was to have both Hill and McGrady lead this young Magic team to the finals.  Grant Hill was already a proven star in Detroit but T-Mac was right on his way to stardom. The pairing of the two stars didn't work out as planned, due to Hill's ongoing injuries that plagued him throughout his Magic career.

Hill made a comeback in 2007 by signing with the Phoenix Suns on a one year deal. He wasn't the same player as he use to be when he was slashing to the basket or picking pockets. This was a new Grant Hill, much mature and knew what he was. Hill played a few more seasons then decided to retire in 2013.

I would say that Grant Hill did have a Hall of Fame career by status and numbers. He could have been one of the greatest to ever play the game. What he did for the game will be remembered by many. But what stands out in all of our minds is, "what if he didn't have all those injuries"? People were comparing Grant Hill to Michael Jordan back then. That's quiet an accomplishment in itself.

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Head Coaches for 2014-2015

1. Gregg Popovich, Spurs
2. Doc Rivers, Clippers
3. Tom Thibodeau, Bulls
4. Erik Spoelstra, Heat
5. Rick Carlisle, Mavericks
6. Scott Brooks, Thunder
7. Frank Vogel, Pacers
8. Lionel Hollins, Nets
9. Jeff Hornacek, Suns
10. Kevin McHale, Rockets

Roger Goodell: For the Love of Money and the Power

 

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, has faced much criticism these past few weeks on the state of his league. Goodell has everything from domestic violence, child, and substance abuse cases that he's become overwhelmed by. I think that the darkness has started to come to light, and the shield that was once protected has been exposed.

Roger Goodell makes millions a year being the commissioner of the NFL, and if you think he's walking away from that, you're crazy. He loves the money and the power that it brings. Goodell has everyone against him from his own players, and the country in whole. Roger Goodell isn't liked at all. But he does a some supporters out there, and it's the 32 owners in the NFL. As long as he's bringing in the money which includes sponsors, they'll keep loving him.

But when is enough? Roger Goodell doesn't seem sincere in his approach, and it showed today in the news conference. The only reason why he seems apologetic, is because he knows this is his last chance to make it right. It's starting to look pretty sad for a guy that loves control, because he's getting one black eye after another. The NFL can't get a break, as they keep having players being charged with felony counts of  domestic violence or child abuse.

You see, Roger Goodell is such a hypocrite. In the Bountygate scandal, he acted quick and swiftly to suspend New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton for the entire season. Now the whole Ray Rice fiasco comes into play, and he gave him a slap on the wrist with only a two game suspension. If that's not spitting in the face of domestic violence victims in this country, I don't know what is.

The public is asking "why did it take so long for a personal conduct policy to be put in place"? I'm wondering the same thing, because the NFL is a professional sports league that generates billions of dollars each year. What kind of mega business you know that doesn't have these kind of policies in place? I don't know any major company that doesn't. When you're out-of-touch as a commissioner, that's when you get sued. You have to remember, you are the deep-pocket in this country. Roger Goodell and his staff need to get out the office chairs, and get to know the players better.

The press conference was terrible, as we seen Roger Goodell dodge certain questions from the media about the TMZ tape to resigning. Every question that came with some pressure, he just pushed to the side and followed with aggression. The NFL needs some kind of mentorship program for their young players. With this kind of program, it will help with their progression in the league and with their personal lives.

The league has changed so much in the past 30 years, and as it should. Yes, it has evolved, but whatever happened to the veterans that showed tough love and made sure that young players acted with class. That's what Roger Goodell should focus on and put resources into that. I really hope the NFL gets it right, and stay out of the news for the wrong things. Every time we watch CNN, ABC or any other major news program, we see a player facing some kind of felony charges. This can't keep happening!

2014 MLB Baseball Manager of the Year Award Race

 

American League:

1. Buck Showalter, Orioles
2. Mike Scioscia, Angels
3. Ned Yost, Royals
4. Lloyd McClendon, Mariners

National League:

1. Matt Williams, Nationals
2. Don Mattingly, Dodgers
3. Mike Matheny, Cardinals
4. Bruce Bochy, Giants

Where are They Now: Chris Childs

Many people that I known through the years would always bring up on the basketball court "what ever happened to Chris Childs"? It always had me wondering as well, because when he retired from the NBA, we haven't heard from him since. He was last on the scene playing for the New Jersey Nets in the 2002-2003 season and then after retired.

Chris Childs was born and raised in California. That is the place where he learned the definition of toughness. After high school Childs became a standout point guard for Boise State University in the late 80's. Even with the accomplishments that Chris Childs received, he went undrafted in the 1989 draft.

Childs didn't let that deter him but it gave him motivation. He chose a different route that will eventually land him in the NBA in 1994 at the age of 26. Before his NBA dreams could come true, he played five seasons in the CBA.

It was such a roller coaster ride for the point guard, as he played for eight different teams in that five year span. Throughout those years he put up some solid numbers and was just waiting on his chance to prove he belonged in the pros.

It is said that, the reason why Childs wore the number one is because he should've been drafted in the first round. I don't think anyone knew that. What goes behind a player selecting a number on their jersey's is priceless.

Chris Childs played for different teams in his eight-year career, but he's most remembered for his playing days with the New York Knicks. Childs wasn't just your normal off-the-bench kind of player. He brought toughness to the game which is missing today.

Chris Childs didn't back down from anyone and Kobe Bryant got to see that in 2000 where he got "chin checked". Having toughness and being physical was apart of the New York Knicks DNA in the mid 90's and if you weren't, you didn't play for that team. That was the prerequisite to be apart of that group.

Chris Childs loved playing in New York. It wasn't just about the fans or the chance to win a title, it was the media that drove him. Today's players aren't a big fan of playing in front of the New York media. That's what made him special and others that stepped up to the challenge in playing in New York. Childs was remembered for his tough defense and his knock down shots. When his phone rang, he answered the call.

But what hindered his career with the Knicks was his injuries. Every season that he played for New York it was something new from a contusion to sprained ankles. But this is a guy that came along way from his days of fighting alcoholism and being treated in rehab for weeks before his NBA days.

There isn't much news on where Chris Childs is today but sources are saying he was last living with his mother in his hometown. It is alleged that he's ducking child support payments. I guess he really did fall on hard times like most professional athletes when they retire from sports.

I wish him well and hope he can get his life back together.  I can say that Chris Childs was one of my favorite Knicks growing up. He brought the "Big Apple" some good memories playing alongside the likes of Allan Houston, Latrell Sprewell and Patrick Ewing.

The Tribute: Boris Diaw May Want to Forget This Ever Happened

 

San Antonio Spurs Frenchman player Boris Diaw just received his first NBA championship of his career this past June. But also he's fighting some demons inside that keep reoccurring in his mind. Memphis Grizzlies forward Quincy Pondexter wants to make sure that Diaw never forgets that fateful night in 2013. This is something that Boris Diaw wishes never happened.

2014 NFL Top 10 Power Rankings: Week 2

1. Denver Broncos: (2-0)
2. Carolina Panthers: (2-0)
3. Cincinnati Bengals: (2-0)
4. Seattle Seahawks: (1-1)
5. Philadelphia Eagles: (2-0)
6. San Francisco 49ers: (1-1)
7. Arizona Cardinals: (2-0)
8. New England Patriots: (1-1)
9. Green Bay Packers: (1-1)
10. Houston Texans: (2-0)

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Sixth Man for 2014-2015

1. Jamal Crawford
2. Isaiah Thomas
3. Manu Ginobili
4. Tyreke Evans
5. Taj Gibson
6. Ryan Anderson
7. Tim Hardaway Jr.
8. Reggie Jackson
9. Vince Carter
10. Draymond Green

2014 MLB Baseball Top 10 Power Rankings

1. Los Angeles Angels: (93-56)
2. Baltimore Orioles: (89-60)
3. Washington Nationals: (85-63)
4. Los Angeles Dodgers: (85-64)
5. Detroit Tigers: (83-66)
6. Oakland Athletics: (83-66)
7. St. Louis Cardinals: (83-67)
8. San Francisco Giants: (82-67)
9. Kansas City Royals: (81-67)
10. Seattle Mariners: (80-68)

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Defensive Ends for 2014-2015

1. J.J. Watt
2. Robert Quinn
3. Mario Williams
4. Cameron Jordan
5. Muhammad Wilkerson
6. Greg Hardy
7. Demarcus Ware
8. Cameron Wake
9. Calais Campbell
10. Jared Allen

The Self-Proclaimed "The Best Ever" Rocks Maidana Again

Floyd "Money" Mayweather does it again tonight as he beats Marcos Maidana by a clear unanimous decision in a rematch. Mayweather showed Maidana again that he's too quick and just an incredible strategic specialist in the ring.

Marcos Maidana is very predictable as he's looking to brawl it out with Mayweather. But Floyd understands his opponents to a tee. He knows that all of his challengers want to attack and be the first boxer to knock him out. So many times the challengers such as Canelo Alvarez and Marcos Maidana seem too desperate when they swing.

If you're ever going to have a chance to beat the undisputed champion, you have to out think him and become strategic yourself. Many think they are but Mayweather in the ring controls his fights round-by-round. Tonight wasn't any different, as Marcos Maidana was thinking too much as he waited for his next move like they were playing a game of chess.

One thing I did take away from the fight was that Mayweather did a lot of holding in the match. Mayweather doesn't like to fight this way where he has to defend himself from a brawler that can hit hard and have a chance to knock you out. Maidana in both match-ups shows his aggressiveness and power that can take a lot of fighters out.

Mayweather is the kind of fighter that can have you so frustrated you will do anything to get an advantage, even if that means biting. That's what happened in round 8 of the fight where Maidana took a big bite at the glove of Mayweather. The judges saw it and deducted points off. But in all Mayweather got the victory and still has a perfect record of 47-0.

It was a good fight and the fans got to see some action on both sides. But if you're looking for a brawl, you are watching the wrong fighter. Floyd Mayweather isn't going to give you that. He's going to give you a fight with great defense, body and power shots. This fight he used his feet a lot which got Maidana confused and clueless at times.

I do have to give the Argentinian fighter credit though, he's the only boxer that I've seen in the past 10 years that gave Floyd Mayweather his toughest matches. You have to take your hat off to that and he gave his fans hope. That's all you can ask for in a match up with the best-of-the-best. 

Who will be the next opponent for "Money" Mayweather to fight? Maybe Manny Pacquiao, Danny Garcia or Amir Kahn?

The Downhill Spiral of Star Running Back Adrian Peterson

NFL's star running back Adrian Peterson isn't just dodging defensive lines anymore, now he's facing felony criminal charges of child abuse. All I can say is wow! When I heard the news yesterday evening I was very surprised it was him. Not just that alone, but for child abuse which law enforcement authorities said he beat his 4-year old son. That's pretty disturbing to hear.

Peterson has been on record to say and not deny these allegations but he did say that he gave him a "whooping" with a switch. The reason for this was because the young son pushed his other child. This is one very touchy subject for many Americans out there because at one point in time in our lives we were disciplined by our parents.

I'm not against disciplining your children because I have one myself. It's really about how it's done. We live in a different time in America where beating your children is a crime and pretty much frowned upon. There are other ways that you can raise a child without always giving them the belt or switch. This isn't a great way of parenting in my opinion and this can cause some lasting affects on a child growing up.

Adrian Peterson went a bit overboard because he's only 4-years old. This is a topic that I really didn't want to write about because many people are looking at this story in the media and are saying that, who are we to judge on how a parent raises their children.

I can totally agree with many out there on this because sometimes a child needs more than a timeout in the corner or to his/her room. If you would've said that the boy was older who knows how this story would've turned out. But only being a 4-year old child, there will be a lot of outcry for Peterson to be punished by the justice system and the league.

Right now the NFL has a big stain that isn't going away anytime soon. You have the Ray Rice situation and the alleged Roger Goodell cover up. This doesn't look good for anyone involved. I just hope that the league can get back to what it was by fixing some things up. Then we can have back the sport that we all fell in love with.

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Tight Ends for 2014-2015

1. Jimmy Graham
2. Julius Thomas
3. Rob Gronkowski
4. Vernon Davis
5. Jordan Cameron
6. Greg Olsen
7. Jason Witten
8. Kyle Rudolph
9. Jordan Reed
10. Dennis Pitta

2014 MLB Baseball MVP Award Race

American League:

1. Mike Trout
2. Josh Donaldson
3. Jose Abreu
4. Felix Hernandez
5. Nelson Cruz

National League:

1. Giancarlo Stanton
2. Andrew McCutchen
3. Clayton Kershaw
4. Jonathan Lucroy
5. Yasiel Puig

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Centers for 2014-2015

1. Dwight Howard
2. Joakim Noah
3. Al Jefferson
4. DeMarcus Cousins
5. Marc Gasol
6. DeAndre Jordan
7. Al Horford
8. Andre Drummond
9. Brook Lopez
10. Marcin Gortat

Wherever LeBron James Goes Players Follow

The upcoming NBA season is going to be one hell of a year for the Cleveland Cavaliers and fans across the world. With LeBron James coming back home and the blockbuster trade for all-star forward Kevin Love, the Eastern Conference will have a big fight on its hands.

Last year the Cavs were a below average team that were fighting for the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. Now with the new Big 3 formed in Cleveland starring James, Love and Irving, they will be the favorite to win it all this season.

They're many that will argue "what about the Spurs or the Bulls"? I hear you and understand where you're coming from. Those are very good questions and arguments to have. But with LeBron on any team he automatically makes them a championship contender.

When LeBron James decided to go back and play for the team that drafted him with the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, that was the first major sign of a contender. However, LeBron just didn't want it to be him and a young team starring all-star point guard Kyrie Irving to make any noise in the Eastern Conference. He had a bigger plan on his mind and that was to bring Kevin Love to help him build his own Big 3 that he once had in Miami.

As we notice in professional sports, if you have one or two major stars on your team other players will follow you and it doesn't matter where. You have former all-star forward Shawn Marion that just made it official Tuesday that he's signed a one year contract with the Cavaliers. Then to say that you're happy and love to be in Cleveland is bit of a stretch. I know that's protocol.

Yes, you want to be in Cleveland to win a championship. We get that, but lets not act like this is where you always wanted to be. We all know there's nothing to do in Cleveland like other big cities. Too it's super cold out there and the night life ends early.

When you have Mike Miller, James Jones and hopefully Ray Allen that follows you to a team that nobody wants to player for, we call that the LeBron effect. That's where you bring everyone and anyone from other teams to you and it doesn't where the location is just to have a shot to win a championship.

Many fans that I encounter are upset by this new super team because they feel that their team won't have a shot to win in the Eastern Conference. I always say to be the best you have to beat the best. I stand by that 100%.

Do I think the Cleveland Cavaliers will win a championship this year? I don't think so but many do. I wouldn't be surprised though either. I just think that the San Antonio Spurs will repeat. They are just too good a team that is well coached and they have a bench to die for.

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Head Coaches for 2014-2015

1. Bill Belichick
2. Jim Harbaugh
3. Pete Carroll
4. Sean Payton
5. Tom Coughlin
6. John Harbaugh
7. Mike Tomlin
8. John Fox
9. Andy Reid
10. Mike McCarthy

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Cornerbacks for 2014-2015

1. Richard Sherman
2. Patrick Peterson
3. Joe Haden
4. Darrelle Revis
5. Tim Jennings
6. Alterraun Verner
7. Aquib Talib
8. Keenan Lewis
9. Brandon Boykin
10. Brent Grimes

The Underworld of Racism in American Professional Sports

In the last few decades we have seen a major shift in American sports when it comes to race. Today the NBA and NFL players that are in these leagues are predominately African American. These owners saw the potential of this money maker and jumped at it in a heartbeat. In business this is like hitting the jackpot.

I can't speak on all owners and how they feel about their African American players and fans. But what I can say, we as a society are still facing some type of racism and non-acceptance in the world of American sports today. The divide is the underworld that most of us aren't exposed to on a daily basis. So some of these practices aren't put to light for many to see.

We've just witnessed disgraced former owner of the Los Angeles Clippers Donald Sterling go on record and tell his young companion that he doesn't want her with blacks and that he's the reason why they have their houses and cars meaning his players. If that's not ignorant I don't know what is. Also who doesn't love Magic Johnson?

Now with the news coming out of Atlanta that another NBA owner Bruce Levenson sent out a e-mail two years ago to his counterparts that he wants to change up how the team is running its operations. I get it and understand him as a businessman that he wants to get more whites to become season ticket holders. In the end it's all about the dollar.

But here's the problem many of us have with him and his insensitive comments about blacks. He goes off to say how they don't root for the players and they are always on their cell phones at halftime. Also that they come to games late which I see as just such a stereotype and it comes off harsh.

But the best is yet to come people. Levenson talks about how whites don't want to mingle with blacks. They don't feel comfortable with the overcrowding of the race and the playing of constant hip-hop music. First off, did he forget he was owning a Atlanta Hawks team which has a city population that is predominately African Americans.

The excuse of when he was in D.C. that their was less of a black audience than in Atlanta is just shows he doesn't get it. Obviously there will be less blacks at games in Washington because for one tickets are usually a bit cheaper there compared to Atlanta. So you'll get more of a turnout of African Americans to come to your games if the tickets are affordable. That's saying even if his statement is even true.

It makes me laugh in disgust that Levenson saying that he came forward with the e-mail because it was the right thing to do. This is all a lie and we all can read between the lines. He only came forward because he was going to get caught. It's that simple!

Levenson will be selling his controlling interest of the Atlanta Hawks because of the e-mail. In his statement he says "the NBA has zero tolerance for racism" and there is no room for it. That's what he believes in.

2014 NFL Top 10 Power Rankings: Week 1

 

1. Seattle Seahawks: (1-0)
2. Denver Broncos: (1-0)
3. San Francisco 49ers: (1-0)
4. Philadelphia Eagles: (1-0)
5. Atlanta Falcons: (1-0)
6. Carolina Panthers: (1-0)
7. New Orleans Saints: (0-1)
8. Indianapolis Colts: (1-0)
9. Cincinnati Bengals: (1-0)
10. Detroit Lions: (1-0)

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Power Forwards for 2014-2015

1. Kevin Love
2. Blake Griffin
3. Anthony Davis
4. LaMarcus Aldridge
5. Dirk Nowitzki
6. Tim Duncan
7. Serge Ibaka
8. Chris Bosh
9. David Lee
10. Zach Randolph

Where Are They Now: Shareef Abdur-Rahim

There comes those times in a NBA fans mind when they ask "what ever happened to that guy"? Well today that guy is former NBA All-Star Shareef Abdur-Rahim. He played for four NBA teams in his solid career which includes the Vancouver Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers and the Sacramento Kings.

Shareef Abdur-Rahim was the third overall pick in the 1996 NBA draft which was highlighted by Allen Iverson out of Georgetown University. Adur-Rahim played only one season for the University of California, Berkeley. He was a standout player in high school and in college. He grew up in Georgia while playing the game of basketball as a youngster also while watching his sibling brothers develop into college players themselves.

In many peoples opinions the 1996 NBA draft was the second-best to the 1984 draft that had Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley and John Stockton. That's not bad company to be in. So for Adur-Rahim to be apart of something historical that's already an accomplishment for him.

Adur-Rahim was a very good player for the most part of his career while putting up 20 per game and grabbing 8 rebounds. He was destined for to become the next great player in the league. But when you're a player that's putting up those kinds of numbers and your team doesn't make the playoffs many times it's thrown out the window.

We all know it's all about the postseason and the greats find a way to get his team there. But the hardest blow for the 6'9" power forward was that he couldn't stay healthy and that was the reason he finally put the ball down and said enough is enough. He retired in 2008 while playing for the Sacramento Kings. If he didn't have those injuries and maybe played for a good team, who knows what he could have become.

For about seven NBA seasons Abdur-Rahim was considered one of the best big men in the game. He was the fifth youngest player to reach 10,000 points. But many of us didn't know that because he played for small market teams that were barely on national television.

Currently Shareef is working for his former team the Sacramento Kings as Director of Player Personnel and General Manager of the Reno Bighorns, the Kings minor-league affiliate. So he might had to put his basketball career to an end in his early 30's but he's showing you he's still apart of something special and that's developing future basketball talent.

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Wide Receivers for 2014-2015

1. Calvin Johnson
2. Demaryius Thomas
3. Dez Bryant
4. A.J. Green
5. Brandon Marshall
6. Antonio Brown
7. Andre Johnson
8. Julio Jones
9. DeSean Jackson
10. Jordy Nelson

2014 MLB Baseball Top 10 Power Rankings

1. Los Angeles Angels: 84-55
2. Baltimore Orioles: 82-58 
3. Washington Nationals: 79-60
4. Oakland Athletics: 79-60
5. Kansas City Royal: 78-61
6. Los Angeles Dodgers: 78-62
7. Detroit Tigers: 77-63
8. Seattle Mariners: 77-63
9. St. Louis Cardinals: 77-64
10. San Francisco Giants: 76-64     

The Tribute: Carmelo Anthony Shows You Why Gotham City is His Home

New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony shows the NBA that he isn't just a scorer and mid-range shooter but he can get up there with the best of them. In 2012, he proved it while he gave New Orleans Pelicans own Ryan Anderson a game to remember. So glad Melo re-signed with the Knicks. I guess they're right when they say home is where the heart is. But we can't  forget to leave out that $122 million contract.

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Small Forwards for 2014-2015

 

1. LeBron James
2. Kevin Durant
3. Carmelo Anthony
4. Kawhi Leonard
5. Rudy Gay
6. Chandler Parsons
7. Jabari Parker
8. Josh Smith
9. Andre Iguodala
10. Nicolas Batum

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Running Backs for 2014-2015

1. Adrian Peterson
2. LeSean McCoy
3. Jamaal Charles
4. Marshawn Lynch
5. Matt Forte
6. Eddie Lacy
7. Frank Gore
8. DeMarco Murray
9. Alfred Morris
10. Arian Foster

Realistic Expectations For Martin St. Louis This Season

For the most part, people are pretty happy with what Martin St. Louis brought to the table when he joined the New York Rangers in the middle of the season. He was able to contribute at a pretty high level, and that helped them get all the way to the Stanley Cup finals.

However, now that he is 39 years of age, there is only so much to expect out of him in general. People in fantasy hockey need to be realistic, especially when they step back and look at his production.

On the 2 teams he played for in 2013-2014, St. Louis was able to score 30 goals and pass out 39 assists. That is pretty nice production for an aging star, but most of it came before he joined the New York Rangers.

He was able to have a bit of a resurgence in the postseason, but that can’t be expected out of him during a long regular season. He should be able to fall in line and be a decent contributor on whatever line he ends up playing for, but that does not mean he is going to be the same type of standout everyone is used to.

Realistically, people in fantasy hockey should not expect any more than around 60 points out of him for the year. He is no longer going to be one of the leagues top scorers, especially with a strong supporting cast surrounding him.

The good news is that New York will not be counting on him to carry the offense much like the Tampa Bay Lightning in the past. He can focus more on being a leader out there on the ice, and that means deferring to some of the younger talent along the way.

The minutes for St. Louis will probably be limited to most during even strength play. He is still a top 6 winger on the New York Rangers, but he is at his best when he is on power plays. They will probably use him more in those situations than wasting his production on even strength opportunities.



By: Matt Moriarty

Team USA Baskeball: Too Dominant for the World

 

Team USA is clobbering every team they are going against and today wasn't any different as they beat Dominican Republic 106-71. They were led by the biggest surprise this summer in Kenneth Faried. He scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. But this isn't about stats or the win, this is about who can match up with Team USA.

The experts and everyone is saying Spain and Brazil because of the Gasol brothers and the NBA talent on these teams. But I'm here to tell you that Team USA keep cruising through these FIBA World Cup matchups.

You can say that the teams that Team USA has faced keep the games close by the first quarter and then after that then we get to see a blowout. Watching these games begin interesting and has fans attention and then after the second quarter you can just change the channel because Team USA is looking at the opposition in their rear view mirrors.

This team is filled with young NBA stars that are representing there country and polishing their skills for the upcoming 2014-2015 season. You can say they will have a tall order against Spain but don't think the game will be close as most think. Team USA will win by 20 points or more. They just have a way to push the ball and keep the defensive intensity throughout the game.

These are the best players in the world bar none and the competition they are facing internationally are a blend of average NBA and former college players. So when you put that together you have one-sided matchups.

NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Quarterbacks for 2014-2015

 

1. Peyton Manning
2. Tom Brady
3. Aaron Rodgers
4. Drew Brees
5. Andrew Luck
6. Philip Rivers
7. Tony Romo
8. Kolin Kaepernick
9. Cam Newton
10. Ben Roethlisberger

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Shooting Guards for 2014-2015

1. James Harden
2. Kobe Bryant
3. Dwyane Wade
4. Monte Ellis
5. Demar Derozan
6. Klay Thompson
7. Manu Ginobili
8. Bradley Beal
9. Lance Stephenson
10. Tyreke Evans

NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 Point Guards for 2014-2015

1. Chris Paul
2. Rajon Rondo
3. Tony Parker
4. Derrick Rose
5. Stephen Curry
6. Russell Westbrook
7. Kyrie Irving
8. John Wall
9. Damian Lillard
10. Ty Lawson

New York Yankees: A Little to Late for a Playoff Push

The New York Yankees could’ve made a strong push for the second wild-card spot in the division but losing these games to the mediocre Toronto Blue Jays isn’t going to get them there. Many fans are angry and frustrated at this club because they are the Yankees and they’re suppose to be better then this.

Manager Joe Girardi is getting killed from the media on the collapse of this club for most likely two consecutive seasons where the Yankees won’t make the postseason. The blame needs to go all-around and not just to the manager. Girardi has been a great coach for the past seasons for this over-paid and underperforming talent

First you have Mark Teixeira that can’t stay healthy and he just haven’t been the same since 2009 when the team won another World Series. His batting average is at another lowly .223, this is pathetic to say the least. They pay him over $20 million per season to give the fans this?

Let’s not keep putting the blame on one of the greatest baseball players of all-time in Derek Jeter. He’s doing the best he can do at his age. Did we not forget this is his last season playing in the pinstripes which he led the club to five titles.

I guess I’m just one of those New York Yankee fans that just can’t accept mediocrity. Average isn’t what I know of this team being in my lifetime. Yes, they were brutal in the early 90‘s when I was young but for 20 years now they have been stellar.

That’s what the Yankee fans expect and the mission statement says it as well. Anything less than a World Series title isn’t going to cut it. Hopefully this team can make up some ground when they face the struggling Boston Red Sox tomorrow.

But as we all know this is their rival and wouldn’t the city of Boston just love to raid on the Yankees parade and keep them out of the playoffs. We all know the answer to that but right now they have over 20 more games left to try and get some help from other teams to get in but I doubt they will make it.

2014-2015 NFL Season Standings Predictions

AFC East:

New England Patriots: 13-3
New York Jets: 8-8
Buffalo Bills: 7-9
Miami Dolphins: 6-10

AFC North:

Cincinnati Bengals: 10-6
Pittsburgh Steelers: 9-7
Baltimore Ravens: 8-8
Cleveland Browns: 4-12

AFC South:

Indianapolis Colts: 11-5
Tennessee Titans: 7-9
Houston Texans: 6-10
Jacksonville Jaguars: 4-12

AFC West:

Denver Broncos: 13-3 (Superbowl Champion)
Kansas City Chiefs: 10-6
San Diego Chargers: 9-7
Oakland Raiders: 6-10

NFC East:

New York Giants: 9-7
Philadelphia Eagles: 9-7
Dallas Cowboys: 8-8
Washington Redskins: 8-8

NFC North:

1. Green Bay Packers: 10-6
2. Detroit Lions: 9-7
3. Chicago Bears: 8-8
4. Minnesota Vikings: 6-10

NFC South:

New Orleans Saints: 11-5
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 9-7
Carolina Panthers: 8-8
Atlanta Falcons: 8-8

NFC West:

Seattle Seahawks: 11-5
San Francisco 49ers: 10-6
Arizona Cardinals: 9-7
St. Louis Rams: 6-10