You’re Only As Good As Your Superstar

I’m going to start by doing something I’ve NEVER done before….

 

I WAS WRONG.

 

That was a lot harder than I thought it’d be, but I feel better now. I thought the “new look” Cleveland Cavaliers would lose, on the road, to the Oklahoma City Thunder. While this game remained LeBron James‘ to lose, his new supporting cast provided balanced scoring off the bench (Jordan Clarkson, Rodney Hood, and Larry Nance Jr. all scored in double-digits).

On the other hand, only 6 Thunder scored Tuesday night. Granted, Russell Westbrook, Paul George, Carmelo Anthony, and Steven Adams all scored 20 or more points, but that’s not a recipe for success. Do you know what else isn’t a recipe for success?? Allowing Carmelo Anthony to lead your team in field goal attempts (22). Knicks’ fans know what I’m talkin’ about….

With his renewed exuberance, LeBron’s impressive February rolls on. Over his last 5 games, LeBron is averaging 29 points, 11.4 assists, and 9.6 rebounds.

The good: The Cavaliers have won 4 games in a row.

The (sort of) bad: LeBron has played 40+ minutes in 3 of his last 5 games.

LeBron is actually tied for 2nd for the most minutes played per game (37) this season. The ultimate question is: Will this finally effect the 33-year old version of LeBron James come playoff time?? It never has before, but father-time is undefeated for a reason (despite rumors that Tom Brady is immortal). All of those minutes didn’t slow LeBron down last night, as he dropped 17 points in the 3rd quarter en route to a 120-112 victory over the Thunder.

James_-37-Lead-Cavaliers-Past-Thunder-120-112

Prior to the game, LeBron was asked about collegiate superstar, Trae young. Because, ya know, everything LeBron James says is the most important thing anyone says all day. As a reporter began to ask about Trae Young’s decision to go pro, LeBron interjected, simply saying, “Decision?! What Decision?! He better go pro!!” LeBron also hinted that there may be some acting in his future….

Check out what LeBron had to say here.

trae young 2

Trae Young and LeBron James have something in common. When Trae Young struggles, the Oklahoma Sooners struggle. Over his past 12 games, Young has failed to shoot at least 39% from the field 8 times. Yup, you guessed it, the Sooners have lost 8 of their last 12 games. The Sooners now stand at 16-9 and should fall out of the top-25 after their 88-78 loss to Texas Tech Tuesday night. Young and company will look to get back on track when they take on Texas Saturday afternoon. Despite Young’s most recent struggles, he still leads the nation in scoring, and assists per game (29.1 points, 9.3 assists, and 4 rebounds).

The question is: Can Trae Young’s 6’2″, 180 lb frame succeed in the NBA??

 

Will the “new look” Cavaliers finish as the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference?? Will Trae Young succeed in the NBA?? Post your predictions in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

LeBron — Is That A Smile In Your Pocket, Or Are You Happy To See Me?!

Tonight’s the night!!

The “new look” Cleveland Cavaliers will finish up a mini-road trip against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This will be their last game before the All-Star break. Catch the action @ 8:00 P.M. EST on TNT. Despite winning 3 straight, this will be a much needed hiatus for a struggling Cavaliers team. Heading into this 3-game winning streak, the Cavaliers were 7-14 in their past 21 games. That’s what they call, not good!!

A tough matchup, in Oklahoma City, will be a good test for newly acquired Cavaliers, Jordan Clarkson, Rodney Hood, Larry Nance Jr., and George Hill. I know everyone’s jumping up and down after Sunday’s blowout victory over the Boston Celtics (121-99), but it takes more than no time at all to adjust to 4 new teammates.

LeBron-James-George-Hill-Rodney-Hood-Jordan-Clarkson-Larry-Nance-Jr_-1000x600

I love how the world pretends the Cavaliers weren’t going to the NBA Finals prior to their roster makeover.

Last time I checked, LeBron James still plays for the Cavaliers. Regardless of his supporting cast, LeBron James plays in the NBA Finals. It’s practically an NBA law. Admittedly, the Cavaliers dug themselves a hole, stuck 5.5 games behind the Celtics, and 6.0 games behind the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference. This means, without an epic comeback over the final 27 games, the Cavaliers will have to win crucial playoff games, on the road, to meet the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals — again.

First of all, do you remember that the Cavaliers weren’t the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference last year?? All the “experts” brainwashed the public, convincing them the Cavaliers couldn’t beat the Celtics without home-court advantage. So much for that….

Second of all, do you realize none of this matters?? Barring catastrophic injuries to at least 2 of the Warriors’ best players, they’re going to win the championship — again!! 

After tonight’s loss to the Thunder, yes the honeymoon will be short-lived, we’ll next see LeBron James Sunday night. “Team LeBron”, riddled with injuries, will take on “Team Curry” in an All-Star showdown.

Check back for updates on All-Star Weekend.

 

Will the Cavaliers play in the NBA Finals this year?? Will the Warriors win back-to-back championships?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Yu Is Worth A Lot More Than You!!

It’s finally here!!

Can you smell it??

No, not what the Rock is cookin’; BASEBALL!! It’s February 12th. It should smell like freshly cut grass and pine tar in your living room by now.

While pitchers and catchers start reporting to spring training today (Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets), some of those lockers may remain empty for the foreseeable future. By my count, 107 free agents remain unsigned. Unprecedented and wild.

****We now take a break from your regularly scheduled program to make fun of the Mets: How is it that the Mets report their pitchers, catchers, and position players (February 17th) EARLIER than the rest of the league, yet still suck so badly????

With this year’s free agent market so unbalanced, the MLBPA (Major League Baseball Player’s Association) has decided to host a spring training camp for free agents. I guess teams should be pleased players will be staying in shape, but I can’t imagine heads around MLB are sleeping soundly on pillows every night….

What caused this problem?? 

There are many theories floating around in the ether. Union chief, Tony Clark, believes teams are “racing toward the bottom”. MLB commissioner, Rob Manfred, thinks agents have “inaccurately assessed the market”. The bottom line is players want more money than they’re worth.

Worth is a funny thing. A player, like Carlos Santana, is worth $20 million per year in 2018. The same Carlos Santana may have been worth $22 million per year in 2017. Each year’s free agent market dictates a player’s worth. Regardless of the year, or market, one thing remains constant:

You are worth what someone is willing to pay you.

The Chicago Cubs decided Yu Darvish is worth $126 million (6 years). Contract incentives could push the deal as high as $150 million. Darvish’s new contract is the biggest of the offseason — so far. I, probably shouldn’t question Cubs’ president of baseball operations, Theo Esptein, but, ah, what the hell….

theoepstein-30744008

What is Theo Epstein thinking?!?! Yes, Yu Darvish is as talented a strikeout machine as anyone in MLB, but Yu can’t strike hitters out from the trainer’s room. Assuming 33 starts is a full season, Darvish has almost pitched 1 full season in his 5-year tenure in MLB (I know he pitched 31 games last year, but that doesn’t help prove my point). Darvish has started just 131 of a possible 165 games. Listen, not everyone’s Cal Ripken Jr., but I’d expect my 126 million dollar man to play more than 79% of the time.

And don’t forget his consecutive ‘blow-ups’ in the 2017 World Series. Both consisted of 4 earned runs in 1 and 2/3 innings, leaving a historically bad taste in ‘Dodger Nation’. Maybe Epstein thinks 1 World Series will override 6 injury plagued, inconsistent seasons.

I wish Yu luck.

 

Like, Love, or Hate Yu Darvish’s contract?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Only Fools Rush In

I’m a smart guy.

I like to think I have a pretty firm grip on the English language. I’m a fast learner. And I can reason through or understand pretty much everything that happens in the world.

But today, I’m stumped!!

For the life of me, I can’t understand the San Francisco 49ers’ latest decision.

Thursday afternoon, the 49ers signed quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo, to a 5-year, $137.5 million contract extension ($27.5 million per year). Garoppolo, who was traded to the 49ers (for a 2018 2nd-round pick) by the New England Patriots on October 31st, is now the highest paid player in NFL history. There are varying reports as it pertains to the guaranteed money in the contract. Some have reported $74 million guaranteed, while others have reported $90 million. Either way, that’s a fine pay day!!

Allow me to express my confusion. I happen to like Jimmy Garoppolo. I think he has the potential to be a good quarterback for a decade or more. BUT, I wouldn’t make him THE HIGHEST PAID PLAYER IN NFL HISTORY!!!!

7. Garoppolo has started just 7 games in his career. Granted, he’s won every start, injecting hope into the 49ers franchise, but no one’s confusing him with Joe Montana.

joe montana             Jimmy-Garoppolo-San-Francisco-49ers-move-closer-to-long-term-contract

See, this is how the NFL works. Quarterback is the most important position on the field. Without a “franchise quarterback”, you can’t win a Super Bowl. Yes, I know Nick Foles just won a Super Bowl, but check the list of Super Bowl winning quarterbacks since the turn of the century, and you’ll see what I’m talking about. As each top-15 quarterback heads toward free agency, they become the highest paid player in NFL history. First, it was Aaron Rodgers. Then Andrew Luck. Then Derek Carr. Then Matthew Stafford. While each have flaws, one can understand paying them the big bucks. It’s called track record. It’s called having a sample size bigger than 7 games.

Just ask the Seattle Seahawks how Matt Flynn’s contract worked out….

Side Note: If Garoppolo is worth $27.5 million per year, what is Kirk Cousins worth????

Apparently, 49ers’ general manager, John Lynch, doesn’t care for track record:

“We want Jimmy to be a Niner for a long, long time,” Lynch said on January 2nd. “That process is going to take place here. We’re eager to get that done, to have the opportunity. You have our assurances, and the fans do, that we’d like nothing more than to make him (Garoppolo) a Niner for a long, long time.”

Lynch and head coach/offensive coordinator, Kyle Shanahan, are excited to work with their 137.5 million dollar man….

Kyle, John, he’s all yours.

 

Like, Love, or Hate this contract?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

BREAKING NEWS: Cavaliers Overhaul Roster

With just over an hour until the NBA trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers made multiple, big, somewhat surprising moves. After only having played 15 games this season with the Cavaliers, Isaiah Thomas has been shipped out of town….

Lakers Get: Isaiah Thomas, Channing Frye, and the Cavaliers’ 2018 1st-round pick

Cavaliers Get: Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson 

Yesterday, Thomas was asked about how he felt playing for the Cavaliers. This question came in reaction to Thomas’ comments earlier in the week:

“That’s been our biggest problem all year, adjusting. Teams are going to make adjustments, and we have to do the same thing too, and we’re not that good at that right now.”

Yesterday’s response:

“I want to play where I’m wanted. I like it here. I’m tired of being traded.”

Apparently, LeBron and company weren’t too fond of Thomas’ original comments. That. Or his inability to play defense. Either one. In Thomas’ defense, he wasn’t afforded a lot of time to adjust to the Cavaliers’ system. Here’s a guy (Thomas), missing the 1st 38 games of the season due to injury, and after just 15 games, is sent packing.

Now, it’ll be a miracle if Thomas can lock down a big contract at the end of the season.

With Thomas and Frye both becoming unrestricted free agents at season’s end, the Lakers have cleared enough salary cap space for 2-max contracts. Did LeBron just mastermind this deal in order to create cap space for himself???? And Paul George too????

The Cavaliers, however, received young talent in Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson.

The Cavaliers didn’t stop there. Evidently, they’re going for the record for trades at a single deadline.

The Cavaliers are also sending Dwayne Wade back to the Miami Heat for a heavily protected 2nd-round pick.

AND, the Cavaliers are ALSO sending Iman Shumpert to the Sacramento Kings, as well as Jae Crowder and Derrick Rose to the Utah Jazz. In return, the Cavaliers will receive Rodney Hood from the Utah Jazz and George Hill from the Kings.

Take a deep breath, and try to keep up….

The Kings will also receive Joe Johnson from the Jazz.

To recap….

Cavaliers Added:                                             Cavaliers Subtracted:

Larry Nance Jr.                                                Isaiah Thomas

Jordan Clarkson                                              Channing Frye

George Hill                                                        Iman Shumpert

Rodney Hood                                                    Jae Crowder

                                                                               Derrick Rose

                                                                               Dwayne Wade

The Cavaliers tax bill will jump to $50 million with the acquisitions of Hood and Hill. Without a commitment from LeBron James beyond this season, this seems silly. They must think these moves gives them a shot against the Golden State Warriors. They would be wrong.

Once your head stops spinning, check back for more updates on the wild, 2018 NBA Trade Deadline….

 

What do you think of these trades?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

LeBron. Buzzer-Beater. Boom!!

But I don’t wanna play defense!! Now, reread that in a whiny, 10-year old voice.

That was the inner monologue of every player involved in the Minnesota Timberwolves Vs. Cleveland Cavaliers game Wednesday night. 278. 278 total points were scored between these 2 teams. Granted, this game went to overtime, but the end of regulation found a tie at 129. I know the stigma of the NBA is, ‘nobody plays defense’, but isn’t it embarrassing to give up 140 points in a game?!

And that’s what the Timberwolves did en route to a 140-138 overtime loss to the Cavaliers. LeBron James played the part of the hero, nailing a game-winning, buzzer-beater from 17-feet. The team defense by the Timberwolves and individual defense by Jimmy Butler on the final play was atrocious, as they allowed a skip pass to LeBron, from 3/4 court, with 1 second left. 1 pivot, 1 step-back, and 1 perfect jump shot ended the game and added to the nearly incomparable resume of ‘King James’.

Check out the game-winner here.

As you’ll see, LeBron came up with a huge block on Jimmy Butler the play prior to  the game-winner. LeBron was everywhere, doing everything, for a Cavaliers team that can use every win they can get. A career night for some, is just a Wednesday evening for LeBron:

37 points, 15 assists, 10 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block (48 minutes)

This marked LeBron’s 9th triple-double of the season. The question is: At 33 years old, how much longer can LeBron maintain this level of play?? He’s played in every game this season, averaging just over 37 minutes per game. And, if you check his stats, he’s having 1 of the best statistical seasons of his career.

The Cavaliers are struggling to hold on to the 3-seed in the Eastern Conference, as just 3 games separate them from the 7-seed. Injuries are mounting, as Kevin Love is set to miss 5-7 more weeks with a fractured left hand. And turmoil is surfacing with Isaiah Thomas publicly criticizing head coach, Tyronn Lue. Can LeBron keep the Cavaliers united and make a run at the NBA Finals?? This would be his 8th consecutive NBA Finals appearance, and the 4th consecutive with the Cavaliers.

As they say, only time will tell….

 

Will the Cleveland Cavaliers play in the NBA Finals this season?? Post your prediction in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Knicks Think It’s Opposite Day

Ask, and you shall receive.

Tuesday, New York Knicks’ Center, Willy Hernangomez requested a trade.

Wednesday, his wish was granted.

Hernangomez has been traded to the Charlotte Hornets for Johnny O’Bryant III and two 2nd-round picks. Yeah, because I need a 24-year old who’s about to play on his 4th team. Hernangomez was drafted in the 2nd-round in 2015 by the Philadelphia 76ers but was traded to the Knicks during the draft. Inexplicably, he’s been buried on the Knicks’ bench all season, averaging just 9 minutes per game.

Last season, Hernangomez showed promise, averaging nearly a double-double in under 20 minutes per game. He was named to the All-Rookie Team last season. Following Kristaps Porzingis’ season ending injury, this trade makes no sense whatsoever. Hernangomez has an unbelievably friendly contract, as he’s locked into the league minimum for the next 2 seasons. And at 23 years old, you’d think the powers that be would build around players like Hernangomez, rather than Kyle O’Quinn (27 years old).

The Knicks, as usual, leave me dumbfounded. With the NBA trade deadline approaching (Thursday, February 8th @ 3 P.M. EST), check back to see who else the Knicks ship out of town.

 

What do you think of this trade?? If you like it, please have your head examined, and then explain yourself in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Worst. Day. EVER!!

Tuesday was a bad day.

On one hand, your franchise player goes down with a season ending injury. The other, your new head coach backs out of the deal at the last second.

Who had a worse day: The New York Knicks or Indianapolis Colts??

Kristaps Porzingis

Kristaps Porzingis is the best thing to happen to the New York Knicks since Patrick Ewing. At just 22 years old, Porzingis’ future looked bright, until Tuesday night. With just under 9 minutes to play in the 2nd quarter, Porzingis cut to the basket, receiving a bounce pass from Kyle O’ Quinn. Porzingis threw it down over Giannis Antetokounmpo. After landing, on what looked like a routine play, Porzingis crumbled to the floor, clutching his left knee.

Watch the play here.

Porzingis would be assisted off the court, unable to put pressure on his left leg. Following the game, an MRI confirmed a torn ACL in his left knee. Injuries of this nature don’t often carry high levels of optimism for 7-footers. Normal recovery time is approximately 1 year.

This injury is LeBron James’ fault. Hear me out…. 

Since the selection of the NBA All-Star Teams, 4 All-Stars have gone down with significant injuries. All 4 (DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall, Kevin Love, and Kristaps Porzingis), were selected by LeBron James.

Josh McDaniels

josh_mcdaniels_indianapolis_colts_head_coach

She loves me, she loves me not. She loves me, she loves me NOT!! Can’t you picture Josh McDaniels, on Tuesday, dropping flower petal after flower petal on the floor??

Tuesday afternoon, McDaniels had agreed to contract terms to become the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts. By Tuesday night, he flipped an illegal U-turn, in rush hour traffic, ala Bill Belichick in 1999. McDaniels backed out of his agreement with the Colts, leaving them high and dry.

Listen, you can spin this however you’d like, but the bottom line is:

No one turns down a head coaching job in the NFL, unless they’re promised another one.

So, while Bill Belichick will coach the New England Patriots in 2018, McDaniels will take over in 2019.

I agree with the critics. This makes McDaniels a dishonorable guy. But this is what happens when you hire someone from a Super Bowl team. By the time you can officially hire McDaniels, all other worthwhile candidates have been hired elsewhere.

 

To answer my previous question, although the Colts had a rough Tuesday, the Knicks clearly had the worse day. Losing your franchise building block, to a season ending injury, isn’t how you’d plan your Tuesday.

Time will tell if Porzingis’ 7’3″ frame can rebound from such a serious injury. For now, the Knicks will enter a mode they’re all too familiar with….

TANK MODE!!

 

Who had a worse day, the Knicks or Colts?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

T.O. Finally Put In His Place!!

The 3rd time’s the charm.

While that expression may not always apply in business, or marriage, it applies to the NFL Hall of Fame.

When you’re in, you’re in.

Terrell Owens is finally in!! As of Saturday, Owens will join Randy Moss, Ray Lewis, Brian Urlacher, Brian Dawkins, Jerry Kramer, Robert Brazile, and Bobby Beathard in the 2018 Hall of Fame Class.

Terrell Owens, WR, 49ers, Eagles, Cowboys, Bills, Bengals (1996-2010)

There’s no doubt Terrell Owens is overjoyed to be in the Hall of Fame, but he refuses to use this accolade as validation of a tremendous career. Listen in here. Like, love, or hate T.O., his accomplishments on a football field are undeniable:

Receiving Yards: 15,934 (2nd All-Time)

Receiving TDs: 153 (3rd All-Time)

Receptions: 1,078 (8th All-Time)

You don’t have to know anything about football to know those are Hall of Fame numbers. The NFL Hall of Fame Voting Committee should be ashamed of themselves. To keep T.O. out because he didn’t play nice in the sandbox was ludicrous.

T.O., however, should probably thank Randy Moss. I believe, as much as the committee doesn’t like T.O., they recognized they couldn’t simultaneously elect Moss and leave T.O. on the outside looking in — again.

Randy Moss, WR, Vikings, Raiders, Patriots, Titans, 49ers (1998-2012)

tab Vikes vs. Green Bay 1/10/05

Randy Moss was an electrifying, deep-threat receiver, who glided behind defenses with his long legs. While he made a name for himself with the Vikings, he etched his name in history with the Patriots. In 2007, he broke Jerry Rice’s record for most TD receptions in a single season (23). Moss became the 1st receiver to be elected in his 1st year of eligibility since Jerry Rice (2010).

Ray Lewis, LB, Ravens (1996-2012)

Ray_Lewis_Ravens

If you’re at the gym, and you can’t seem to find energy for a workout, just throw some Ray Lewis on. Have you ever listened to Ray Lewis hype up his team?! It’s something to behold. Click here to relive one of Ray Lewis’ pregame speeches. He played a little football too….

Lewis led the Ravens to 2 Super Bowls, in 2000 and 2012. He was named Super Bowl MVP in 2000 and also won Defensive Player of the Year Awards in 2000 and 2003. Lewis’ induction is no surprise, as he stands as one of the best defensive players of all-time.

Brian Urlacher, LB, Bears (2000-2012)

urlacher

The rock. The staple. The foundation of the Chicago Bears. That’s how Brian Urlacher will be remembered. The Bears ranked in the top-5 in defense 5 times during Urlacher’s 13-year career. He was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2000, as well as Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. Like Moss and Lewis, Urlacher was inducted in his 1st year of eligibility.

Brian Dawkins, S, Eagles, Broncos (1996-2011)

briandawkins

Brian Dawkins had to wait 1 year to achieve his dream. Known as “Weapon X”, Dawkins’ versatility set him apart from other defenders. Dawkins was a ball hawk from the safety position. Ray Lewis may be infamous for his motivational speeches, but Dawkins’ pre-game ritual was nothing to sneeze at. Click here to check out Dawkins’ raw emotion.

Jerry Kramer and Robert Brazile were inducted to the Hall of Fame by the Senior Committee. Kramer will be remembered as one of the best guards in NFL history, as he helped lead the Green Bay Packers to back-to-back Super Bowls in 1967 and 1968. Brazile played his entire 10-year career with the Houston Oilers from the linebacker position. He was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1975 and never missed a game throughout his career. Bobby Beathard was inducted as a contributor to the game. He helped orchestrate the Washington Redskins’ Super Bowl Victories in 1982 and 1987.

 

Did the NFL Hall of Fame Committee get it right this year?? Post your thoughts in the comment section below. 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

Who Needs Defense When You Have Nick Foles??

That was the greatest football game I’ve ever seen.

Despite NO defense being played by either side, Super Bowl LII was highly competitive and wildly entertaining (and the Patriots lost!!). 74 total points. 1,156 total yards (most in any NFL game — ever). And 1 trick play you have to see to believe.

Did I mention the Patriots lost?!

1st Quarter

The Philadelphia Eagles set the tone with a 67-yard, field goal drive that lasted just over 7 minutes. The Patriots followed suit, also driving 67 yards to tie the game at 3. The rest of the quarter didn’t go as well for the kickers. After the most impressive drive of the game by the Eagles, rookie kicker, Jake Elliot missed the extra point. The Patriots, continuously trying to 1-up the Eagles, missed a kick of their own….

2nd Quarter

Just 42 seconds into the 2nd quarter, the usually sure-footed, Stephen Gostkowski, banged a chip-shot field goal attempt off the left upright. In his defense, this was the holders fault (Ryan Allen). But then, the craziest thing happened. A PUNT!! The Eagles would go 3-and-out and execute the only punt of the game. The next play would end Brandin Cooks’ evening.

Watch the play here.

I hope Cooks makes a full recovery, but next time, catch the ball, run forward, and go down!! There’s a reason why Marvin Harrison played 1,432 years.

The football world knows Eagles’ head coach, Doug Pederson, is super aggressive. So, I wasn’t surprised when he went for 2, midway through the 2nd quarter, as he tried to turn 15-3 into 17-3. Chasing points in the 1st half, however, is never a good idea. And it almost cost him a Super Bowl.

And then, the game turned into a video game. 7 of the next 9 possessions resulted in a touchdown, including the aforementioned trick play at the end of the half. If I had a camera, this is the part when I’d take my glasses off, and stare into the world’s eyes.

Decisions and results are not the same thing. 

Asking your backup tight end to throw a touchdown, on 4th & goal, to your quarterback, is not a good decision. In hindsight, it was one of the greatest play calls in Super Bowl history. But that doesn’t make it smart!!

The Eagles took a 22-12 lead into the locker room.

3rd Quarter

Touchdown. Touchdown. Touchdown. Like I said, video game.

Tom Brady began to spread the ball around. Rob Gronkowski, Chris Hogan, and Danny Amendola all went over 100 yards receiving. Anyone who’s watched the NFL over the past 17 years has seen this movie before….

4th Quarter

After Brady and the Patriots scored 21 points in 14 minutes and 53 seconds, they took their 1st lead of the game. Down 33-32, with under 10 minutes to play, it was time for backup turned starter, Nick Foles, to bring his team to the promised land.

Foles remained poised throughout the entire game.  

After a methodical, 7 minute and 1 second drive, Foles hit Zach Ertz for an 11-yard touchdown. Despite announcer, Cris Collinsworth’s, best attempt at talking the world into believing this obvious touchdown was a fumble, or incompletion, or something else, the touchdown stood. And the Eagles took a 38-33 lead.

zach-ertz-td

Down 5, with 2 minutes and 21 seconds to play, is familiar territory for the great, Tom Brady. However, Brandon Graham, would force a fumble, effectively ending the game.

Tom Brady did not win another Super Bowl. The world can rejoice!!

Let the madness in the streets of Philadelphia commence!!

Final Thought: Bill Belichick coached a piss poor game. There were no in-game adjustments, and Malcolm Butler, one of the Patriots’ better defenders, was benched. No explanation. Just Belichick claiming he does what gives his team the best chance to win. Nice work Bill!! As for Matt Patricia, Patriots’ defensive coordinator, enjoy the bearded “genius” Detroit. His defense was repeatedly thrashed all season. The only reason the Patriots made it to the Super Bowl was because of Tom Brady’s greatness (Brady threw for 505 yards yesterday).

And now, the world should stay at least 30 miles from the city of Philadelphia for at least a week. Ya know, for the sake of the human race’s survival….

 

Was this the best NFL game you’ve ever seen?? If not, please tell me in the comment section below.

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