Patriots Take Their Talents South Of The Border

Mexico Patriots Raiders Football

Hola NFL!

Bienvenidos a Mexico!

On Sunday, the people of Mexico, welcomed the NFL with open arms. For the 2nd consecutive season, a November matchup was slated to be played in Estadio Azteca (a famed soccer stadium in the heart of Mexico City). Last season, the Oakland Raiders beat the Houston Texans 27-20. This season, Los Raiders would return to battle the New England Patriots. Unfortunately, the Raiders left their battle at home. The Patriots jumped out to a slight advantage. Because nothing says competitive like 30 unanswered points!! The Patriots thought it’d be a good idea to make the score look respectable, so they let the Raiders score a touchdown in the 4th quarter.

La gente de Mexico got to see the best the NFL has to offer; the New England Patriots. Although the words hate and Patriots often collide in the same sentence in my household, the word respect is usually mixed in as well.

Tom Brady is the best quarterback of all-time.

And it’s not even that close.

Tom Brady’s afternoon in la Ciudad de Mexico: 30-37, 339 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions

Tom Brady, at 40 years old, is still the best quarterback in the NFL. After a 2-2 start, the Patriots have now won 6 straight games. They’re the best team in the AFC and favorites to represent their conference in the Super Bowl — again. The Patriots will look to follow-up their 33-8 victory over the Raiders with a beat down of the Miami Dolphins next Sunday.

Only one question remains: When will father time catch up to Tom Brady?? 

__________________________________________________________________________________________

As for the rest of Week 11, blow out or overtime loss, there was no in between.

Giants….Win?!

I’m still not sure how, but the New York Giants beat the Kansas City Chiefs (12-9). Being the ugliest game of the year didn’t hurt, but the Giants have no business winning football games. The Giants scored the game’s lone touchdown in the 2nd quarter on an Orleans Darkwa run. In typical G-Men fashion, Aldrick Rosas missed the extra point. They actually could have won this game handily if it weren’t for the dumbest trick play known to man. On the Giants 1st offensive possession, they enjoyed a nearly 7 minute drive, down to the Chiefs’ 18-yard line. They inexplicably thought that was the right place, and time, to let their running back attempt a pass. It’s not like there were 50 mph wind gusts at MetLife Stadium or anything….It’s not Shane Vereen’s fault, but his pass was picked off at the 1-yard line.

Luckily for the Giants, they won the turnover battle (3-1), and won their 2nd game of the year. They’ll get back to their losing ways when they take on the Washington Redskins on Thanksgiving.

What A Comeback!!

What looked like the upset of the week, turned into the game of the week. Midway through the 3rd quarter, the Washington Redskins jumped out to a 24-13 lead over the New Orleans Saints (in New Orleans). The Redskins would extend their lead to 31-16 with just 5:58 to play. Obviously, the Redskins went into a super prevent defense, allowing an easy touchdown in just 3 minutes and 5 seconds (on 9 yards per play). This is the moment that drives me nuts!! Don’t start playing a soft defense because you’re holding a 15-point lead. Continue doing what helped build that lead in the first place.

The Redskins predictably went 3 and out, only burning 1 minute off the clock. 87 yards and 48 seconds later, the Saints brought the game within 2 points. Alvin Kamara successfully converted the 2-point conversion, sending the game to overtime. The Redskins started with the ball in overtime, but that didn’t help matters. They went backwards 10 yards before punting. 2 runs by Mark Ingram was all it took (31 and 20 yards). Will Lutz drove home a 28-yard field goal for the 34-31 victory. And with the win, the Saints became the 1st team in NFL history to win 8 consecutive games after starting a season 0-2.

Smart Move Brandon Beane!!

Brandon Beane is the general manager of the Buffalo Bills, and he is not very bright. Beane replaced Doug Whaley who was unceremoniously fired in April. Just 7 months into the job, Beane thought it would be a good idea to bench his starting quarterback, Tyrod Taylor for rookie quarterback, Nathan Peterman.

How’d that work out for ya?!

Peterman tied a dubious NFL record on Sunday: Most interceptions in his 1st career start (5). He tied Keith Null who set the record for the St. Louis Rams in 2009. Peterman almost assuredly would have broken the record, for he was pulled for Tyrod Taylor just after halftime. Taylor, who should have never been benched in the first place, put up decent numbers. But it was too little, too late, as the Chargers stomped out the Bills 54-24!!

 

What were you watching on Sunday?? Would you like to see an NFL team in Mexico City permanently?? 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!!

Celtics D Stifles Warriors, Headline Busy Thursday Night

jaylen brown

You’ve done it again Thursday.

My thumb was reacquainted with the ‘Prev Ch’ button. Football to basketball, basketball to football, NFL Network and TNT got my ratings Thursday night (until I fell asleep on the couch). To the hardwood we go….

NBA Finals Preview??

Thursday’s nights matchup between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors pinned the 2 best records in the NBA against each other. The Warriors were winners of 7 straight, as they travelled to Beantown to take on the red hot Celtics (winners of 13 straight).

The Warriors looked like the Warriors, carrying a 17-point lead past the midway point of the 3rd quarter. Then, Jaylen Brown happened. Over a 49 second span, Brown scored 8 consecutive points. After learning of his best friend’s death just hours prior to tip-off, Brown played inspired basketball (22 points and 7 rebounds). He dedicated his performance to Trevin Steede.

The Celtics didn’t win their 14th straight game because they scored 142 points. They won because they do something that’s very rare in the NBA. The play defense. They held a Warriors team, that’s averaging 117.5 points per game, to 88 points. Unbelievably impressive, but I wouldn’t expect Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green to shoot a combined 11 for 43 (25.5%) from the field again — ever.

The Celtics will revel in their 92-88 victory during their day off on Friday. They’ll seek their 15th straight win on Saturday against the hapless Atlanta Hawks (3-12).

A 4th Quarter To Forget

Marcus Mariota let’s it fly. Rishard Matthews comes down with the deep bomb, scampering 75-yards for a touchdown. That’s one way to start the 2nd half. 16-7 became 16-14 in the blink of an eye. And just like that, we had a football game on our hands. Or so we thought. The Titans final 3 possessions: punt, interception, interception. That, plus Antonio Brown’s 3-touchdown night, put the game out of reach in the 4th quarter. 17 unanswered points brought the totality of destruction to 40-17.

The Steelers now own an AFC best record; 8-2. That is, until the New England Patriots play on Sunday. As for the Titans, they drop to 6-4, leaving the door wide open for the Jacksonville Jaguars to grab an AFC South division lead.

You Scored How Many Points?!

Chris Paul made his return to the court Thursday night. After missing 14 games with a knee injury, Paul played 21 minutes against the Phoenix Suns. Effective minutes I’d call them.

Chris Paul’s Evening: 11 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.

Paul was merely a pedestrian contributor to the absolute smack down the Rockets laid on the Suns. He was 1 of 7 players to score in double figures, led by James Harden’s 48 points. The Rockets set a franchise record Thursday night, scoring 90 points in the 1st half.

No need to readjust your spectacles. The Houston Rockets scored 90 points in the 1st half. I know the Suns are bad, but that’s absurd. The final score of 142-116 included 6 Rockets’ going a perfect 35 for 35 from the free throw line. Only Clint Capela would miss a free throw (0-3).

Harden, Paul, and company will look to improve on their 12-4 record when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies Saturday. Paul will look to ramp up his minutes, while Harden continues his MVP charge.

 

What were you watching Thursday night?? Tell me about it 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!!

Best Individual Performance Of This Decade

Joel-Embiid

The Knicks made a 4th quarter comeback?!

“We’re on the air right now??….I don’t believe you.”

Is There Any Space Left On Tim Hardaway Jr.’s Back????

The New York Knicks hosted the Utah Jazz Wednesday night. Despite coming off a 51-win season, the Jazz have struggled mightily early on this season. They’re averaging just 98.5 points per game (2nd worst in the Western Conference). Well, that didn’t stop them from jumping out to a 10-point lead at halftime (60-50). Hitting 10 three-pointers in the 1st half didn’t hurt. They finished with 17 three’s and actually shot better from three (48.6%) than from the field (43%). Rodney Hood led all scorers with 30 points, off the bench, including 6 three-pointers.

However, it would be the Knicks, led by Tim Hardaway Jr., who would storm back from a 12-point deficit to claim victory. Hardaway led the way for the Knicks with 26 points, 14 in the 4th quarter.

I like the way this Knicks team plays. They hustle. They give effort. And they PLAY DEFENSE!! That’s why they’re winning games. And so far, Frank Ntilikina has impressed. His defense is extremely sound for a 19-year old rookie. He still has his rookie moments, committing 4 fouls in just 20 minutes. Ntilikina is tied for 2nd in the league with 2 steals per game, despite averaging just 20.5 minutes per game. Did I mention he’s 19??

Knicks 106, Jazz 101

Best Individual Performance In Nearly A Decade

Trust the process they say. Well, Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons have my trust. I’ll tell you that right now. Simmons, as a rookie, is averaging nearly a triple-double. But last night, wasn’t about Simmons. It was about Joel Embiid. HOLY CRAP!! This was the best individual performance the NBA has seen since Kevin Love dropped 31 points and 31 rebounds on the world in 2009.

Joel Embiid’s Evening: 46 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, and 7 blocks (in just 34 minutes)!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

If Embiid had played another 10 minutes, he might have joined the exclusive quadruple double club. There have been just 4 men, since blocks and steals became statistics, to record a quadruple double.

Oh yeah, the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Los Angeles Lakers 115-109.

Something Stinks….

There are good teams in the NBA. And there are some REALLY bad teams in the NBA. The latter was on full display last night. Of the 22 teams in action, 10 failed to reach triple-digits, and 3 didn’t crack 90 points.

The Chicago Bulls have won just 2 games this season, and last night wasn’t one of them. They had just 3 players in double digits, scoring a putrid 79 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder. They should probably trade Jimmy Butler away….

The Sacramento Kings aren’t much better. They have 3 wins on the season, and dropped just 80 points against another bad team, the Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks put 126 POINTS on the Kings last night. The Kings had just 2 players in double figures, and only scored over 20 points in 1 quarter. Yikes!!

 

Which NBA game did you watch Wednesday night?? Tell me about it 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!!

 

 

 

Evolve Or Die, College Football’s Dilemma

the u

It was chaos. Mayhem. Cats and dogs living together. It was just what the doctor ordered for any true college football fan. Multiple teams were dropped from the college playoff ranking this week after embarrassing, blowout losses. Monkey wrench, thrown in….

Notre Dame dropped from #3 to #8 following a beat down of epic proportions by Miami. With fate in their own hands, and a 1-point loss to Georgia as the only blemish on their resume, Notre Dame folded like a cheap suit. 41-8 is not the storybook ending the Fighting Irish were hoping for. ‘The U’ happily took Notre Dame’s #3 ranking this week.

Georgia also took a tumble, from #1 to #7, thanks to a crushing 40-17 defeat at the hands of the Auburn Tigers. Auburn is now knocking at the door at #6 despite having 2 losses on their record. With a showdown with now #1 Alabama just 2 weeks away, that monkey wrench may get a lot bigger. Auburn being a crucial part of this year’s college football playoff equation, is irony at its finest. For a refresher of the effects of Auburn’s 2004 undefeated season, click here.

In 2014, the NCAA (finally) changed their postseason format to a 4-team, bracket-style, playoff. This has added intrigue to college football, as more teams remain in contention for the national championship. And just 4 seasons since its inception, the college football playoff must evolve again.

The world needs the college football playoff to expand to 8 teams.

The playoffs, in any sport, are used to narrow the field, in order to determine a champion. The challenge, in every sport, is to draw a line in the sand in determining that field.

Here are the current playoff fields for every sport you care about:

NFL – 12 out of 32

MLB – 10 out of 30    

NBA – 16 out of 30

NHL – 16 out of 31

NCAA Basketball – 68 out of 351

As you can see, college football is behind the times. Rather than be reactive, college football should be proactive. Expanding the field to 8 teams would increase and prolong viewership, without watering down the playoff field. While I understand there will be ‘an odd man out’ in any format, this would alleviate a lot of headaches (and crying).

There are no logistical issues in the way, only approval from the powers that be. While this idea is awesome, and can be implemented next year, don’t hold your breath.

For now, let’s hope Alabama loses to Auburn, Georgia loses to Auburn, Clemson beats Miami, Oklahoma loses to Ohio State, and Wisconsin goes undefeated. Because nothing screams controversy like an undefeated team not making the playoffs.

 

Do you think the college football playoff should be expanded to 8 teams?? If not, post your format idea 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 James Is A Punk!!

lebron-james-kanter-ap

There they are!!

The Knicks I’ve known and loved for so many years.

After holding a 22-point lead, at home, with 1:39 left to play in the 3rd quarter, the New York Knicks set their vehicle to cruise control. That may work against the Sacramento Kings, but not the Cleveland Cavaliers. When rookie, Frank Ntilikina, hit a driving layup to put the Knicks up 75-53, Lebron and Co. flipped a switch. The Cavs would go on an 8-1 run to close the quarter, carrying momentum into the 4th quarter.

A wise man, formerly employed by the Knicks, once told me, “You need 8, and you have to win the 4th quarter. It’s as simple as that.”

Well, 8 they had. As for the 4th quarter….not so much. The Knicks gave up 43 points in the 4th quarter. THE KNICKS GAVE UP 43 POINTS IN THE 4TH QUARTER!! My defeatist, Knicks fan attitude knew the game was lost when the Cavs cut the lead from 14 to 4 over a 2 minute and 25 second stretch. That was about the time Kyle Korver caught fire. Korver would drain five 3-pointers last night, all in the 4th quarter. Side note: Korver scored more points in the 4th quarter (19) than the Cavs scored in the 2nd quarter (13).

With 90 seconds left and counting, and the game tied at 97, Lebron James did what Lebron James does. On the grand stage at Madison Square Garden (superstars always show out at the Garden), Lebron drove a dagger through the heart of the Knicks.

Click here to see my pain in motion. Nothing like a step-back, 27-foot 3-pointer right in Porzingis’ face, right??

So, the Cavs won, 104-101, exacting revenge from the Knicks win in Cleveland just 10 days earlier. Lebron James continues to dominate the NBA 48 minutes at a time. However, Lebron James, should be ashamed of his actions over the past few days.

Lebron made some off-beat comments about the Knicks’ decision to draft Frank Ntilikina over Dennis Smith Jr.:

“The Knicks passed on a really good one, and Dallas got the diamond in the rough. He should be a Knick. That’s going to make some headlines, but he should be a Knick.”

In other words, the Knicks made the wrong decision drafting Ntilikina. It doesn’t matter who the other player (Smith Jr.) is, this is a shot at Ntilikina. Lebron can say this was one last parting shot at Phil Jackson all he wants — that’s bull****!! Hey Lebron, newsflash, Phil’s been gone for quite some time now. There’s no reason to take parting shots at a guy who already got run out of town.

And then, Lebron put his pathetic words into action, showing Ntilikina whose space, and league, he’s in. Click here to see Lebron’s punk move. Watch until the end.

LEBRON JAMES IS A PUNK!!

A 19-year old rookie, who hasn’t opened his mouth once, shouldn’t be on a list of concerns for a player like Lebron James. He should be more concerned with staying above .500 in a weak Eastern Conference.

Conversely, I have earned A LOT of respect for Enes Kanter this week. First, he responds to Lebron’s comments: “Nope!! We love what we got..Thanks!!!” Then he gets right in Lebron’s face, in defense of his teammate. AND THEN, after last night’s game, he makes a sports journalists’ dream come true:

“I don’t care who you are. What do you call yourself? King, Queen, Princess. Whatever you are. We’re going to fight. Nobody out there is going to punk us.”

Good for you Enes Kanter, good for you!!

Stay tuned. I have a feeling this story isn’t over yet….

 

What do you think of Lebron James’ actions over the past few days?? Is last night’s game a sign of things to come for the Knicks?? Leave 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 6:10 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!!

 

 

 

Yes, That Rotting Smell IS The NFL

NFL: New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers

There was a lot of stink radiating from the NFL this past Sunday.

The NFL is not what it used to be. We can blame rule changes, the most recent CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement), etc. Whatever the main culprit is, the level of play has simply taken a nosedive over the last decade. Here at DaveTalksSports, we enjoy a good list:

Nice Sack, Nice Sack, Nice Sa….Hey, Does Anyone Here Know How To Block?!

8.) I said it the second Ezekiel Elliot was (finally) suspended, “The world is going to recognize Elliot’s worth (on a football field).” One player does not make a football team, but one player can greatly effect a football team. With Elliot’s suspension hanging over the Dallas Cowboys like a black cloud, the rain finally came. And the Cowboys were ill prepared to weather the storm. After taking a 7-0 lead, it was all Falcons the rest of the way. The Falcons would score 27 unanswered points, sacking Dak Prescott 8 times in the process.

So much for having the best offensive line in the NFL.

Does He Know What Color Jersey He’s Wearing????

7.) Tom Savage.

 

Need I say more?

The Los Angeles Rams continued their winning ways (4 in a row), stomping out the Houston Texans 33-7. Tom Savage showed us, yet again, why he’s not fit to play quarterback at the professional level. Because nothing says victory like a 50% completion percentage and 2 interceptions….

How Is It That You’re Employed?!

6.) Speaking of quarterbacks who don’t belong in the NFL, Brock Osweiler still has a job. To answer your question, I’m not sure. Last time I checked, 18 for 33 with an interception isn’t going to cut it against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots. This one got so out of hand (41-16), Brian Hoyer took 9 snaps under center for the Patriots. The Broncos are now losers of 5 straight.

You Embarrass Yourself!!

5.) When the team you’re facing is 2-6, and is without their 2 best players, you should win. But you wouldn’t be the New York Jets. The Jets, looking to get to .500, travelled to Tampa, to take on the Buccaneers. And in predictable fashion, the Jets ‘pooped the bed’. Against a middling Buccaneers defense, the Jets mustered just 3 points. Yes, Josh McCown threw a garbage-time touchdown with 28 seconds left, but that doesn’t count.

My favorite part of the game was the back-to-back interceptions thrown by the 2 most journeymen quarterbacks in the history of the NFL.

The Jets are who we thought they were, only slightly better. While the #1 pick is out of reach, and Jets’ fans should enjoy the young players’ progress, they’re still the good ol’ Jets.

Beat Downs Like This Should Be Illegal 

4.) Holy Water Buffalo!! The Buffalo Bills have now been blown out in consecutive weeks. Their week 9 loss to the Jets was bad, but they took LOSS to a whole new level in week 10. 47-10. No need to adjust your glasses, that’s the right score. The Buffalo Bills allowed the New Orleans Saints to come into their house, and rush for 298 yards and 6 touchdowns!!!!

If I can sprinkle some good into this article, the Saints are winners of their last 7. Watch out NFC….

It’s Hard Finding New Ways To Lose EVERY Week

3.) Just when you think you’ve seen it all, the Los Angeles Chargers prove you wrong. Intercepting a Blake Bortles’ pass, with 2 minutes left and a 3-point lead, is usually a recipe for success. Not if you’re the Chargers. ONLY the Chargers can fumble the ball trying to run out the clock. ONLY the Chargers can intercept another Blake Bortles’ pass, seemingly icing the game, but then go 3 and out giving the ball back to the Jaguars. ONLY the Chargers can let the Jaguars gain 36-yards in 47 seconds, allowing their former kicker, Josh Lambo, to kick a game-tying field goal to send the game to overtime. ONLY the Chargers can throw an interception in overtime, leading to a game-winning field goal by the Jaguars. 20-17 F/OT. Yikes!!

The Giants Would Be the Worst Team In the NFL If The Browns Didn’t Exist

2.) The New York Giants season has been filled with turmoil, drama, and dissention. Injuries + a poorly constructed roster + anonymous players ripping their own coach = 1-8. Only a dumpster fire of epic proportions could get blown out by the winless San Francisco 49ers. 31-21 doesn’t do it justice. But hey, Giants’ fans, look at the bright side. The Giants will probably draft a franchise quarterback who will end up in the Hall of Fame. If only the Jets could figure that out….

Oh Cleveland, Poor, Sweet Cleveland….How Could You Be So Stupid?!

1.) Allow me to create imagery. There’s 15 seconds left in the 1st half. It’s 2nd down. And the Cleveland Browns have the ball on the Detroit Lions’ 2-yard line. THE BROWNS HAVE NO TIMEOUTS. The score is inconsequential, but it’s 17-17. If you’re the Browns, what do you do?? My 10-year old daughter knows the answer to this question by the way. You throw the ball twice, while avoiding a sack, in hopes of scoring a touchdown. If you don’t score a touchdown, you kick a field goal. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WHATSOEVER DO YOU RUN THE BALL, BECAUSE IF YOU DON’T SCORE, THERE IS NOT ENOUGH TIME TO RUN ANOTHER PLAY!!!!

So obviously the Browns ran the ball….

The score was still 17-17 at the half. And they lost 38-24.

 

Which disaster of a football game did you watch on Sunday?? Tell me all about it 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!!

 

 

 

 

 

Seahawks Win The Battle, May Lose The War

richard sherman

Thursday Night Football resembled a massacre rather than a football game. Not because one team got blown out, but due to the inordinate amount of injuries sustained in 60-minutes of action Thursday night.

6, yes you heard that right, 6 Seattle Seahawks left the game and did not return:

  • Richard Sherman
  • Duane Brown
  • Jarran Reed
  • C.J. Prosise
  • Sheldon Richardson
  • Frank Clark

Sherman, the Seahawks top cornerback 7 years running, went down in the 3rd quarter with a ruptured achilles. Sherman will have season-ending surgery. The rest of the injured Seahawks are dealing with short-term injuries. If there’s a silver lining here, they’ll be afforded 11 days rest.

It’s literally the only positive to playing on Thursday. 

As for the Arizona Cardinals, they lost 3 players as well:

  • D.J. Humphries
  • Tyvon Branch
  • Ifeanyi Momah

After losing Carson Palmer for the season, 2 weeks ago, the Cardinals have tried to lean on their midseason acquisition, Adrian Peterson. Well, 29 yards, a fumble, and a safety later, Adrian Peterson had possibly the worst game of his career. At 4-5, with no serviceable quarterback on the roster, the Cardinals are staring another mediocre season in the face.

Oh yeah, there was a football game played last night. That Vegas is something else, isn’t it?? The Seattle Seahawks were 6-point favorites heading into last night’s game. So, of course, they won 22-16.

Seemingly the entire game was played through the air. Both teams combined for a whopping 89 yards from the running back position. That’s what they call — not good. Russell Wilson, however, is good. Check out his ‘Houdini’ act here. Insane right??

That set up Jimmy Graham’s 2nd touchdown reception of the game. Graham now has 6 touchdowns in his last 5 games. I’m glad Russell Wilson finally realized Graham is the best red zone target IN THE WORLD!! Yes, better thank Gronk. Gronk is amazing, but Graham can actually jump more than 6-inches off the ground….

The Seahawks will hobble onto their home field on November 20th, for a Monday Night Football showdown with the Atlanta Falcons. If you were wondering Russell Wilson’s worth, you’re witnessing it.

 

Can the Seattle Seahawks overcome the injury bug and make the playoffs?? 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!!

 

 

 

 

Boston Celtics Extend Winning Streak To 10

aron-baynes

The Boston Celtics are the best team in the NBA!!

Okay, maybe we should pump the brakes a little, but they do have the best record in the NBA. Through 12 games, the Celtics stand at 10-2. After losing their first 2 games, they are winners of 10 in a row. The next closest winning streak is 5 games by the Philadelphia 76ers and Golden State Warriors (the actual best team in the NBA).

Last night, the shorthanded Celtics hosted the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics were without starting center, Al Horford, as he is in the concussion protocol. They also lost the services of rookie forward, Jayson Tatum, when he left the game in the 2nd quarter after twisting his right ankle. Tatum would not return and was seen in a precautionary walking boot following the game. Despite their injury bug, the Celtics handled the Los Angeles Lakers 107-96.

Yes, the success (or failure) of the Boston Celtics will be about Kyrie Irving. He can dribble, he can shoot, and he can flat out put the ball in the basket. He’s the cornerstone of the franchise at just 25 years old. BUT, Wednesday night was NOT about Kyrie Irving. It was about a man named Aron Baynes. Mr. Baynes, a native of New Zealand, is currently the backup center for the Celtics. With Al Horford sidelined, Baynes was thrust into the starting role, a place he is largely unfamiliar with. Baynes has started just 32 games in his 6-year career. He did not disappoint. Baynes was the game’s high scorer with 21 points on 8 of 12 shooting, adding 8 rebounds and 3 assists in just 23 minutes. WOW!!

With Al Horford in the concussion protocol, we’ll have to get used to that thing Baynes calls a hair style. Horford missed 9 games with a concussion last season, so expect the Celtics to play it safe with their ‘113 Million Dollar Man’. As for Tatum, his X-Ray came back negative and is scheduled for an MRI this afternoon. With or without Tatum, the Celtics will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Charlotte Hornets Friday night @ 7:30 P.M. EST.

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As for my Knicks, they laid and egg (112-99). I know, I know, they were without Kristaps Porzingis, but 99 points against the Orlando Magic ain’t gonna cut it. The Magic allow an average of 105.6 points per game. Porzingis sat out the 2nd of back-to-back games due to an injury to his right elbow. Porzingis is dealing with bursitis in his elbow and may require a procedure this coming offseason. Hopefully this doesn’t effect his status for many games this season. 7’3″, with the ability to dribble, shoot, and defend is beautiful, but you can’t score from the trainer’s room.

Porzingis will look to get back on the court Saturday night, as they host the Sacramento Kings @ 8:00 P.M. EST.

 

Who is the best team in the NBA?? How many games will the Knicks win this season?? Break it all down for 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!!

 

 

Roy Halladay, Gone Too Soon

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It is a sad day in the sports community. Harry Leroy Halladay III, aka Roy “Doc” Halladay, passed away Tuesday afternoon, at the age of 40, in a plane crash. It’s being reported he was the lone passenger on his single-engine, two-seater plane that crashed into the Gulf of Mexico at approximately noon on Tuesday. As a child, Halladay dreamed of flying a plane because his father was a corporate pilot. Halladay’s dream came true upon retiring from Major League Baseball, as his contract prohibited piloting a plane.

The outpouring of love has been tremendous from countless people from many walks of life. The baseball community recognizes Halladay as one of the best pitchers of his generation. His personal community acknowledges the work he did with those in need through his foundation and charity work. And his family mourns the loss of a loving husband and father of two.

On the field, Halladay’s work ethic was 2nd to none. Former Philadelphia Phillies’ teammate, Chase Utley, shared the recollection of the day he met Halladay:

“It was 5:45 a.m. on the first day of spring training when I arrived. He was finishing his breakfast but his clothes were soaking wet. I asked if it was raining when he got in. He laughed and said, “No I just finished my workout”.”

Halladay was a consummate professional. And it showed on the mound….

Halladay’s Career (16 Seasons):

203 wins

3.38 era

1.18 whip

2,117 strikeouts 

2 Cy Young Awards, 8 All-Star Selections, 1 Perfect Game, and 1 Postseason No-Hitter

Halladay is eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2019.

Halladay’s influence reached farther than the 60 feet, 6 inches of real estate he worked in for 16 years. He was an active member of his community, donating time, money, and energy to the betterment of society. He and his wife would invite children and their families from the Hospital for Sick Children to his personal suite at Rogers Centre to enjoy Toronto Blue Jays’ games. This wasn’t done for notoriety, as press was not allowed in the suite. He also had an annual donation of $100,000 to the Jays Care Foundation written into his contract.

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, which had a personal relationship with Halladay, reported the crash. Halladay donated a police dog to the Sheriff’s Office, which they appropriately named “Doc”. You can’t sum up a man in 1 or 2 sentences, but Sheriff, Chris Nocco, did his best:

“You wouldn’t know what Roy did because Roy wouldn’t tell you what he did,” Nocco said. “And that’s the legacy of a great man.”

Halladay is survived by his wife Brandy, and their two sons, Ryan and Braden.

 

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!!

Shalane Flanagan Outruns History At NYC Marathon

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Well, that was a first.

Okay, maybe not a first. But Shalane Flanagan, on an overcast Sunday in New York City, accomplished something that hadn’t been done in 40 years. She became the first American woman to win the NYC Marathon since 1977. After 4 decades, the well of female, American runners had nearly run dry, but Shalane Flanagan used the last drop of motivation and determination to will her way to victory.

Flanagan endured a special set of circumstances to arrive at this moment. An iliac (pelvic) fracture, that kept her from running her hometown, Boston Marathon in April, may have been a blessing in disguise. While Flanagan is a professional runner, she is not strictly a marathon runner. She specializes in 10,000 meter events, as she earned a silver medal at the 2008 Olympics (Beijing). While the Boston Marathon holds a special place in her heart, recuperating rather than competing was likely the best thing to happen to her career.

At age 36, Flanagan is exiting her prime. Professional runners typically peak between 25 and 35. The 2017 NYC Marathon was only Flanagan’s 5th official marathon, her last in Rio at the 2016 Olympics (she placed 6th). The improbable nature surrounding Shalane Flanagan crossing the finish line before anyone else was fulfilled Sunday, November 5th, 2017.

Her time: 2 hours, 26 minutes, and 53 seconds.

Her closest competitor: 3-time defending NYC Marathon Champion, Mary Keitany, crossed the finish line a full minute and 1 second later.   

And in that moment of elation, an entire nation rejoiced alongside Flanagan. An American flag draped across her back represented the culmination of 40 years of 2nd places, and bronze medals, and oh so close but yet so fars. Not since Miki Gorman, in 1977, has a woman won the NYC Marathon. An event that has long since been dominated by Kenyan women, winners of 8 of the last 15, saw a changing of the guards this past Sunday. With 3 miles remaining, Flanagan passed Keitany, and never looked back.

Sunday was USA’s day. New York’s day. Shalane’s day.

 

Did you watch, or go to the NYC Marathon?? If you did, tell me about it 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!!