2011年7月31日日曜日

HBO Sports And MLB Productions' Documentary About Derek Jeter Is A Home Run


Jeter 3000th hit

Derek Jeter is a fairly reserved guy.

Sure, he gives a press conference after practically every game and he dates gorgeous women who aren't strangers to magazine covers, but Jeter plays his cards close to the vest.

The allure of HBO Sports and Major League Baseball Productions' documentary Derek Jeter 3K is how much The Captain lets his guard down and the cameras in. 

Derek Jeter 3K is a film about Derek's chase for 3,000 hits and the emotions he felt while trying to become the first New York Yankee ever to reach the historic number. Most of the filming took place between June 13, 2011 and the days immediately following July 9th, the day Jeter eclipsed the mark with a five-for-five showing.

"I didn't think about what the moment would be like, I just wanted to experience it with those fans." Those are the first words Jeter utters in the entire documentary, and they set the tone for one of the film's main themes: humility.

Derek Jeter has everything he could ever want in the world, yet time and time again throughout the movie's duration, Jeter talks about other people or how he's interacting with others.

Jeter addresses how heavily he resisted being placed on the disabled list with a relatively minor calf strain. His qualms come not only from wanting to play, but the fear he was disappointing people.

The cameras followed Derek to his rehab assignments and showed his interactions with coaches and assistants that have names no baseball fan would take the time to research in order to figure out who they are. Jeter knew them all by name and a had a story for each one of them.

While he was hurt, Jeter celebrated his 37th birthday in Tampa with a few of his closest friends. Among those friends was former teammate Gerald Williams. By coincidence, his birthday was the same day as this year's Old-Timers' Day. Jeter spent his birthday watching the game quietly with his buddies.

"Bernie [Williams] at Old-Timer's Day. And Tino. Gah!" Derek's comical realization of his age was possibly the only time in the movie where he expressed any dismay about anything.

Despite a few down seasons, the Bomber faithful have not ran him out on a rail is because Derek Jeter is a great dude if Derek Jeter 3K is truly any indication.

There are few flaws to Derek Jeter 3K. The music can get a bit monotonous just like the other professional sport league's produced movies, but that's a minor annoyance. The production quality is fantastic especially considering in how little time it was made. Also, Derek's apartment is amazing and we get to see a lot of it.

Just by opening the blinds that cover the window that peers into Derek Jeter's soul, HBO and MLB hit a home run here. It's safe to think of DJ3K as the Yankees' answer to ESPN's Four Days In October, and it took a lot of heart to even come close to matching that.

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Juan Miranda Colin Curtis Kevin Russo Curtis Granderson Nick Johnson Javier Lopez

Law of Averages

Source: http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/7/28/2297409/law-of-averages

Brett Pill Pat Burrell Jhan Marinez Anibal Sanchez John Baker Brad Davis

Boxing: Most Brutal Post-Fight Pictures from 2011

A post-fight photo usually tells the story of a fight. Sometimes it doesn't but in most cases it does. These 10 post-fight photos are all from matches in 2011 and they feature blood, bruises and grotesque features that aren't supposed to be a feature of the human face.

Fighters featured include Pawel Wolak, Paul Williams, Devon Alexander and Steve Forbes.

There have been many technical decisions this year that occur after a boxer has been head-butted by their opponent and cannot continue due to a cut. They are all featured on here so enjoy!

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/785816-most-brutal-post-fight-faces-in-boxing-from-2011

Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk

Boston College Daily Links: Critical Season Looms For Frank Spaziani

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/7/29/2302718/2011-nfl-free-agents-mathias-kiwanuka-justin-tuck-new-york-giants

Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada

Video: Dan Henderson Knocks out Fedor Emelianenko

MMA legend Dan Henderson picked up the biggest win of his career when he knocked out another MMA legend in Fedor Emelianenko in the very first round of their fight. It was the main event on tonight's Strikeforce card and was contested in the heavyweight division.

Henderson improves to 28-8 with 13 knockouts. His accomplishments in MMA include being the Pride Welterweight and Middleweight Champion as well as being the current Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion. This is arguably his most satisfying victory.

Emelianenko falls to 31-4 with three consecutive defeats. His previous two losses were to Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva and Fabricio Werdum. He didn't make it the distance with any of them, losing by submission to Werdum and TKO to Silva. He made a career out of being arguably the greatest heavyweight fighter of all time. He was the longest reigning Pride Heavyweight Champion and went undefeated for over 10 years.

Henderson has won his last three bouts, including his Strikeforce championship bout where he defeated Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante.

This was the last fight on Henderson's Strikeforce contract. It's not sure whether or not he will stick around in the organization but Henderson did mention defending his belt in Strikeforce in the post-fight interview.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/785966-video-watch-dan-henderson-knock-out-fedor-emelianenko

Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan Bryan Allen Mark Cullen Baltimore Orioles

Tornado Send A Statement To The Bulls with 3-1 Win

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/03/tornado-send-statement-to-bulls-with-3.html

Toronto Maple Leafs Atlanta Trashers Carolina Hurricanes Florida Panthers Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals

Wednesday Morning Fly By: Pittsburgh Wants To Host The Draft (And So Do We)

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/7/27/2296801/wednesday-morning-fly-by-pittsburgh-wants-to-host-the-draft-and-so-do

Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas Los Angeles Kings

Patriots Cut Ty Warren, Nick Kaczur, 2 Others

This article is from Helmet2Helmet, with authorization from feedcrossing. One day after the Patriots grabbed the headlines by acquiring Albert Haynesworth and Chad Ochocinco, they?re going the opposite route by trimming some of the fat. The Boston Herald reports the Pats have released several veteran players, including defensive end Ty Warren, offensive lineman Nick Kaczur, [...]

Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/nfl/patriots-cut-ty-warren-nick-kaczur-2-others/

Ramon Ramirez Sergio Romo Brian Wilson Eli Whiteside Mike Fontenot Brett Pill

Atlanta Braves Trade Rumors: Braves Won't Replace Brian McCann Through Trade

After catcher Brian McCann strained his left oblique muscle in the Atlanta Braves' thrilling 2-1 win against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, the Braves currently find themselves in the same position as the San Francisco Giants: grasping for a starting catcher.

While the Giants have resorted to backup Eli Whiteside and call-up Chris Stewart, the Braves have backup David Ross, who has been good but certainly won't fill McCann's cleats.

McCann is expected to be out until at least mid-August, and there's a chance he could be out for longer. That puts the Braves in a tough position right now. They could ride it out now with Ross and hope McCann stays healthy wants he resumes playing, or they could try to make a move for a better catcher than Ross.

The only problem is, as the Giants have discovered, there are really no legitimate high-impact catchers on the market. The only catcher that could step in as a solid starter would be the Cincinnati Reds' Ramon Hernandez, and there's still no telling of the Reds are willing to give him up.

Ever since his first full campaign with the Braves in 2006, McCann has been one of the league's best catchers, and he's clearly on the league's most underrated. With the Giants' Buster Posey out this season, McCann has been the unquestionable best catcher in baseball, with a .306 average with 18 home runs and 55 RBI.

Even if the Giants don't land someone like Hernandez, they've significantly helped themselves with the acquisition of Beltran. There's no one on the market right now that could help the Braves' offense in the same way.

The Braves will quickly find out how significantly McCann's injury will hurt them, and if he doesn't come back 100 percent later in the season, the Braves may as well be out of the picture in the National League.

McCann is just that important to them.

-Ryan Rudnansky

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/772086-braves-trade-rumors-latest-buzz-about-whos-on-the-tomahawk-chopping-block/entry/111314-atlanta-braves-trade-rumors-braves-wont-replace-brian-mccann-through-trade

Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal

Five Good Minutes: Virginia Tech Football Preview With Gobbler Country

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/7/29/2303088/2011-virginia-tech-hokies-football-preview-boston-college

Cincinnati Reds Colorado Rockies Florida Marlins Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers

Trenton Titans return to ECHL, will affiliate with Flyers for 2011-12 season

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/7/28/2300894/trenton-titans-return-echl-philadelphia-flyers

Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn Andrew McDonald Matt Martin Frans Nielsen Dwayne Roloson

Mark Herzlich had to take a new number because fellow BC alum Mathias Kiwanuka already had #94 with...

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/7/29/2302868/mark-herzlich-had-to-take-a-new-number-because-fellow-bc-alum-mathias

Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Cleveland Indians Detroit Tigers Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Dodgers

2011年7月30日土曜日

Buy Surf Titan Laird Hamilton And Pro Volleyball Player Gabrielle Reece's Hawaii Home For $2.75 Million


hamilton

Brash big-wave surf king Laird Hamilton and wife, professional volleyball player Gabrielle Reece, are packing in their boards and rolling up the volleyball nets at their Maui home and are moving to a larger home… right next door.

According to Pacific Business News, Hamilton and Reece are selling their home, known as the “Jaws house” after they recently bought a larger property right next door.

The Jaws house is a 5,000+ square foot home, so named for its proximity to the notorious big surf break known as “Jaws” off Paia.

Hamilton says he can even hear Jaws break from his bedroom.

Hamilton and Reece built the home in 2004 to be close to Jaws, which produces some of the biggest waves in the world and where the controversial practice of tow-in surfing was created by Hamilton and others.

Hamilton’s compound, which was featured on MTVs Cribs, is situated on 9.99 acres in a lush tropical valley and offers views to the North Shore of Maui from its generous 1,000-sq ft wraparound deck.

To keep in tip-top shape, Hamilton and Reece converted most of the first floor of their home into a massive workout room and 1,764-sq ft garage that can accommodate six vehicles, a  flotilla of watercraft and assorted sports paraphernalia.

The home features 4 suite-style bedrooms with private baths and built-in closets.

Landscaped with rock walls and royal palms, upscale interior finishes include Italian marble counter tops, oak and limestone flooring, and Imperial plaster walls.

A one million gallon fish pond overlooks tranquil gardens and mature foliage.

A second natural swimming pool is joined by waterfalls and accessed by a water slide.

This post originally appeared at Zillow.

The home spreads across 5,000 square feet



The spacious living area



The contemporary kitchen features marble countertops



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/sR_YlI2xCNc/hamilton-reece-home-2011-7

Anaheim Ducks Dallas Los Angeles Kings Phoenix Coyotes San Jose Sharks New Jersey Devil

Who would be the odd man out?

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/7/29/2303028/who-would-be-the-odd-man-out

Pittsburgh Penguins Boston Bruins Buffalo Sabres Montreal Canadiens Ottawa Senators Toronto Maple Leafs

NFL FREE AGENCY FRENZY: Nnamdi Asomugha Signs With The Philadelphia Eagles In A Stunner


Nnamdi Asomugha6:23 p.m.: The Philadelphia Eagles have signed CB Nnamdi Asomugha. A stunning move after a week of Nnamdi-to-NY talk.

3:45 p.m.: The Cardinals have added former Eagles MLB Stewart Bradley. He'll join fellow ex-Bird Kevin Kolb in Arizona.

As far as Asomugha goes, the Jets keep making moves to clear cap space. From Mike Lombardi: "I am told that the Jets have redone the contracts of B Scott, LT, C Pace, Brandone Moore as well as Brunnell to set the stage for Asomugha."

1:15 p.m.: The New York Giants have locked up a few key pieces. They signed Brandon Jacobs today and Mathius Kiwanuka last night.

No new talk on the Asomugha front.

11:00 a.m.: Mike Lombardi of NFL.com says it's Cowboys vs. Jets for Nnamdi Asomugha. Two big-spending, headline-seeking franchises battling to sign to best free agent out there.

10:20 a.m.: Not too many high-profile moves going on right now. But the buzz out of NYC is that the Jets are continuing to manuever themselves into position to go after Nnamdi Asomugha.

They cut QB Mark Brunell and few other players today, and a NFL Network reporter Albert Breer tweets, "Not sure if the $$$ works in the end. But I'll say this -- Nnamdi wants the Jets, and the Jets want Nnamdi."

Stay tuned.

9:20 a.m.: Michael Koenen signed a six-year, $19 million deal with the Bucs. That's the richest contract ever for a punter. As important as field position is for NFL teams, it's kind of strange that punters are so often cast aside. So it's nice to see this disrespected breed get some love.

On the other hand, DeSean Jackson only makes about $600k a year. And there's no way a punter is worth $2.5M more than him.

8:20 a.m.: Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams wants to reunite with Mike Martz by joining the Chicago Bears.

The Houston Texans have signed Bengals CB Jonathan Joseph. This could mean that they've dropped out of the Nnamdi Asomugha sweepstakes (or they could go after the Raiders CB and form the best cornerback tandem in the league).

The Saints have signed Darren Sproles to replace Reggie Bush.

Here's a post-mortem on the Chad Ochocinco era in Cincy from ESPN.

And here's a take on the Patriots' stunning moves yesterday from our own Dashiell Bennett.

Yesterday:

6:00 p.m.: "God is so Good", Ochocinco just tweeted. This is what playing for the Bengals for a decade will do to a man.

5:50 p.m.: Chad Ochocinco has been acquired by the New England Patriots. Wow. That was quick.

He's accepted a restructured three-year deal, according to ESPN's John Clayton.

5:20 p.m.: The Chad Ochocinco-to-New England rumors are starting to stir. Yahoo! Sports columnist Dan Wetzel tweeted about the rumor that's been around the Patriots blogosphere for awhile.

The Bengals have yet to cut Ochocinco. But if they do, New England seems as reasonable a destination as anywhere else. Plus, the Pats are picking up troubled Pro Bowlers left and right after trading for Albert Haynesworth.

5:05 p.m.: Here's an SI feature on the 18-play, 99-yard drive Vince Young orchestraed in 2009, for those of you feeling nostalgic for the VY days.

4:15 p.m.: Jets punt returner and wide receiver Brad Smith is going to Buffalo. In addition, New York is looking to rework LaDainian Tomlinson's contract. REALLY looks like they're manuevering to get Asomugha.

3:00 p.m.: The Eagles have officially traded Kevin Kolb to the Cardinals for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a 2nd-round pick. Kyle Orton is now the last QB standing.

Kolb signed a five-year contract extension with Arizona.

1:45 p.m.: The Titans have released Vince Young. Everyone knew this was coming, but it's still a stunning downfall for the one-time Madden cover player. The NFL.com guys think Oakland could be his next stop.

12:10 p.m.: The Vikings are looking to replace Sidney Rice with either James Jones or Braylon Edwards, according to the Pioneer Press.

The Asomugha watch has been quiet today. But from what we can gather, three teams are frontrunning: the Jets, the 49ers, and the Texans. Another can certainly emerge, but this is where we stand as of now.

Also, Kevin Kolb to Arizona might be done today, with the current Eagles getting a contract extension.

11:10 a.m.: Adam Schefter reports that the Jets still have $10 million in cap room. That's more than enough to go after Asomugha.

Also, here's Santonio Holmes taking a bottle of Cristal to the face after signing his $50-million deal yesterday.

10:45 a.m.: Carolina has been really active over the last day and a half. But Trey Wingo pointed out that lost in all the big contracts they've doled out was the signing of kicker Olindo Mare. That means that John Kasay, the last original Panther, is on his way out.

10:20 a.m.: It looks like Chris Johnson, Frank Gore, and Desean Jackson will all hold out of training camp due to contract disputes. The penalty for skipping camp? $30,000 a day.

9:20 a.m.: The Eagles just added Pro Bowl DE Jason Babin. A smart move for a team that couldn't generate a pass rush without blitzing last year.

9:10 a.m.: We have a punter sighting! The Bears just signed former Jaguars punter Adam Podlesh.

Also, Reggie Bush is indeed taking his talents to South Beach, but the deal won't be finalized until he and Miami rework his inflated contract. Fox Sports has the details.

The Donovan McNabb trade has been finalized, according to ESPN. The Vikings gave up two sixth-rounders for him.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk has a nice takedown of the Seahawks grand plan to reunite Vikings duo Tavaris Jackson and Sidney Rice in Seattle, check it out here.

For those of you who will be checking in throughout the day, here's what we're keeping an eye on:

  • Two QBs (Orton and Kolb) could be officially traded at moment.
  • The Nnamdi Asomugha sweepstakes should advance beyond the rumor stage.
  • Teams will make their cuts today. Marion Barber, Nick Barnett, Roy Williams, and Stewart Bradley are just a few of the big names that will be out of a job.

8:10 a.m.: A few big-time moves went through last night and this morning. The Patriots traded a 5th-round pick for petulant DT Albert Haynesworth. And the Seattle Seahawks have signed former Vikings WR Sidney Rice.

Rice was one of the biggest offensive pieces left on the board. While Haynesworth, if he can get his act together, can be a huge addition for the Pats.

It also appears that Reggie Bush could be on his way to Miami.

Wednesday:

5:35 p.m.: Not so fast, The Jets! The 49ers just released CB Nate Clements. They were already considered a frontrunner for Asomugha, but this makes them never more of a threat. San Fran signed Clements to a $64 million contract in 2007.

5:20 p.m.: Adam Shefter's sewing circle tells him that Plaxico Burress is most likely to sign with either the Giants or the Steelers.

4:55 p.m.: The Buffalo Bills just added CB Drayton Florence for three years, $15 million. Florence was the Jets third option at CB behind Asomugha and Antonio Cromartie.

4:35 p.m.: The Redskins just added their third pint-sized wide receiver of the day, picking up Brandon Stockley on a one-year deal.

4:25 p.m.: Darrelle Revis has spoken out and thrown his support behind signing Nnamdi Asomugha.

"He's the best CB in the league, and me and him as a tandem would be unbelievable, would be awesome," he told Jets beat writers.

"Nnamdi is deserving of getting top dollar. I hope we get him," he added.

With the two best corners in the game, the Jets secondary would be unprecedented. Imagine the blitzes Rex Ryan could think up.

4:05 p.m.: The Colts have resigned kicker Adam Vinatieri to a three year deal. Also, sad times for Connecticut-based UFL fans, the Hartford team just folded according to NFL.com's Michael Lombardi.

3:50 p.m.: There's a lot of buzz on the Twittersphere about Santonio Holmes' cap-friendly contract. Apparently it'll only count as $2.4 million against the Jets' cap. So expect them to remain really active in the coming hours and days. Maybe Asomugha or Moss?

3:20 p.m.: The Redskins have traded for WR Jabar Gaffney. That's the second undersized receiver they signed after locking up Donte Stallworth this morning.

3:00 p.m.: The Cowboys locked up offensive lineman Doug Free in a four year, $32 million deal. That takes one of the best OLs off the board.

2:55 p.m.: Jason Babin may be headed back to Philly. You probably never heard of him, but he had 12.5 sacks last year in Tennessee, so this could be a big one for the Eagles.

2:40 p.m.: 39 of Peter King's Top 50 free agents are still unsigned. Only players in the top 10 to sign are #2 DeAngelo Williams (Carolina) and #7 Santonio Holmes (Jets)

2:25 p.m.: We've reached something of a lull here. So here's a RECAP of today's biggest moves if you just signed on:

  • WR Santonio Holmes to the Jets.
  • RB DeAngelo Williams to the Panthers.
  • DE Charles Johnson to the Panthers.
  • DB Eric Weddle to the Chargers.
  • QB Matt Hasselbeck to the Titans.
  • WR Donte Stallworth to the Redskins.

QBs Kevin Kolb and Kyle Orton are expected be traded to Arizona and Miami, respectively, at some point in the coming days.

QB Donovan McNabb is expected to be traded to the Vikings sometime today.

The Jets are rumored to be eyeing Randy Moss and superstar corner Nnamdi Asomugha.

Stay tuned for more moves this afternoon.

2:03 p.m.: Matt Leinart signed with the Houston Texans. Also, Lance Moore of the New Orleans Saints just tweeted that he's coming back to NOLA.

1:50 p.m.: Seattle scoops up former Raiders guard and one-time top pick Robert Gallery. Also, Cleveland will release QB Jake Delhomme.

1:42 p.m.: Is a theme of teams overpaying starting to develop?

Eric Weddle got a five-year, $40 million deal. Add that to the massive Holmes and Johnson deals from earlier, and it looks like NFL teams are a little too giddy to get back to the business of football.

1:32 p.m.: DeAngelo Williams is staying in Carolina for five years, $43 million.

1:30 p.m.: Santonio Holmes celebrated his $50 million contract in style: by downing a bottle of Cristal with his shirt off.

"Just finish a bottle of Louis Roederer Cristal from 2002! Big bro showed loved today." he tweeted.

Here's the photo.

1:20 p.m.: Eric Weddle is off the board. The long-time Chargers DB remained in San Diego.

1:00 p.m.: NFL.com says Kevin Kolb-to-Arizona could be done within the next 48 hours. But the Eagles website knows something we don't. You can already buy a custom "Rodgers-Cromartie #29" jersey. Philly is rumored to get CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie from the Cardinals in exchange for Kolb.

12:35 p.m.: The Jets are going nuts today. Jason LaContra of NFL.com says they are in the mix for Randy Moss now.

The Sun Sentinel says the Dolphins are most definitely in on Kyle Orton.

Also, Mike Lombardi says that Deangelo Williams will find a team by the end of the day.

12:00 p.m.: This is a few hours old, but the Cowboys plan to cuts some big-name players on Thursday. They’ll drop Marion Barber, Roy Williams, and Leonard Davis. This will free up $16.6 million in salary, allowing Jerry Jones to overpay a wide variety of free agents this week.

Also, the Donovan McNabb-to-Minnesota trade is going to happen, but it hasn't been wrapped up yet.

11:30 a.m.: From Mike Lombardi, "I keep hearing from well-placed, reliable NFL sources that this Jet talk and Nmandi Asomugha is serious and I mean serious." It looks like the Jets are really (and I mean really) making a run at the Super Bowl.

11:15 a.m.: The Eagles are letting all of their unrestricted free agents walk, possibly eyeing a big name.

Donte Stallworth has signed a one-year deal with the Redskins.

The Packers have locked up kicker extraordinaire Mason Crosby to a five-year deal.

Also, the terms of that Holmes deal are five years, $50 million ($24 million guaranteed).

10:45 a.m.: Much-coveted wide receiver Santonio Holmes is staying with the Jets on a five-year deal, according to Pro Football Talk.

Seattle quarterback Matt Hasslebeck has agreed to a deal with the Tennessee Titans.

The Panthers have signed DE Charles Johnson to a monster $72-million deal.

Earlier:

It's set to be a wild day in of NFL free agent movement.

Teams are cutting players, trading players, and signing players today.

Keep an eye on this page for the latest deals from around the league.

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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/1VmRRPwvwhc/nfl-free-agency-frenzy-2011-7

Juan Miranda Colin Curtis Kevin Russo Curtis Granderson Nick Johnson Javier Lopez

US Open 2011: Why This Is Andy Murray's Best Chance in NY so Far

Underachiever, not enough mental strength, best player ever without a slam. Andy Murray is described in this way all the time.

He has all the talent somebody could ask for, yet, at the age of 24, he has yet to win a Grand Slam title.

His fellow top four players: Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer won three, nine and five Slams, respectively, by that age.

Murray has made the semifinals at every major and has appeared in three finals at two different majors. In 2008, he shocked top ranked Rafael Nadal in the US Open semifinals before getting crushed in the final by Roger Federer.

In 2010, he had another good run at a major (Australian Open), beating Nadal handily in the quarterfinals, and then Marin Cilic in the semis. Once again, in the final, he was no match for Federer, as the Swiss once again needed only three sets to finish the Brit off.

The rest of 2010 was a disappointment. He had another shortcoming in the Wimbledon semifinals and lost early in both the US and French Opens.

Something needed to happen before Andy became too discouraged, and all his talent went to waste.

Something did happen. During the next Australian Open, Murray found his groove. Through six rounds, he did not drop a set. In the final, instead of having to face Federer again, he instead ran into Novak Djokovic, who, much like himself, had tons of talent, but it had produced only one Grand Slam title.

 

This was Murray's best chance. He blew it.

Djokovic delivered him another straight-set loss in a major final, as the Serb conceded nine games en route to his second win in Melbourne.

Murray has been relatively good this year, making a career-best semifinal at the French Open, and a third consecutive run to the final four at Wimbledon.

Next on the major calendar is the US Open, where Murray lost in the fourth round last year.

This year, all the talk has been about the "Big 3"—Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. However, I would not be quick to write off Murray from the list of  contenders.

Murray has been playing good, aggressive tennis so far, and as long as his forehand remains consistent, he is a threat.

Nadal and Federer have not been at their 100 percent best this season.

Especially Federer, who is coming off a disappointing quarterfinal loss to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon. He has won only one tournament and made the final of one of the three majors. At the US Open, he should not be considered a true favorite unless he makes drastic changes before September.

 

His whole game has been below his par, and at the All-England Club, he blew a two sets to love lead to lose. Although the Open may be his final true chance at a Slam, with other players primed to defeat him, an aging Federer more than likely will not produce.

Although Nadal has had a very good year, a good portion of the results have been discouraging. He has barely lost to anyone not named Novak Djokovic, but the Serb has beaten him five consecutive times. Nadal has still found no formula to beat him.

This is the first time that someone has consistently beat him on all surfaces. Djokovic's best surface is hard, as is Nadal's worst. However, he might not even make the final if he runs in to Juan Martin Del Potro or someone of the sort earlier on.

Djokovic, obviously, heads in as the heavy chalk. He has compiled a 48-1 record and won two majors. However, the last player to win his first Slam as No. 1 was...

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/724407-us-open-2011-why-this-is-andy-murrays-best-chance-in-ny-so-far

Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies

Sidney Rice Signing with the Seattle Seahawks Is Good for the Minnesota Vikings

It is no coincidence that Sidney Rice had his best statistical year the same year that Brett Favre had his. Brett Favre made Sidney Rice’s season. Rice was Favre’s favorite target. With eight touchdowns and 1,312 yards, he was a pretty successful one at that.

However, his other two-and-a-half years combined did not touch his 2009 statistics. Brett Favre clearly was the key to Rice’s success, because when Favre came along, Sidney Rice started to perform at a much higher level.

Now, I am not saying that Sidney Rice is not a downfield threat, but it is better for the Minnesota Vikings with him out of the picture.

After the 2009 NFC Championship game, when Sidney Rice suffered a hip injury, he elected to not have surgery on it until August 23rd. This cost him 10 games during the regular season in which the Vikings only won three games. Had he had this surgery sooner in the offseason, this would not have been an issue. Not to mention, he was not exactly in a hurry to get back onto the field. 

Because Sidney Rice chose Seattle over Minnesota, the Vikings now have an extra $41 Million to throw around. There are plenty of good receivers on the market that they can pick up.

Malcom Floyd is a tall receiver who can catch the ball downfield, a perfect receiver to fill in at the No. 1 slot. Braylon Edwards is another alternative who, like Rice, is a big playmaker.

However, that extra money can be used on other facets of the Vikings offense, namely their offensive line that struggled last year.

If the Vikings are able to sign a No. 1 receiver, the offense will be great. Remember, they still have a top-notch running back in Adrian Peterson, a great slot receiver in Percy Harvin and a solid, veteran quarterback in Donovan McNabb.

Overall, Sidney Rice had one good year and that was with one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time having his best season ever throwing him the ball. Yes, Sidney Rice is good. Yes, he can change games, but he is not worth $41 million, especially after only one season of performing. Once again paired with Tarvaris Jackson in Seattle, his numbers will be mediocre at best in 2011. 

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/785017-why-sidney-rice-signing-with-the-seattle-seahawks-is-good-for-the-vikings

Cincinnati Reds Colorado Rockies Florida Marlins Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers

Losing Nnamdi Asomugha: What Do the New York Jets Do Now?

On Friday morning, famed ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter claimed that the Jets had an 80 percent chance of landing the most coveted player of the 2011 free agent class, Nnamdi Asomugha. Gang Green had been favorites to land the NFL's most sought after cornerback all week, but the Philadelphia Eagles swept in and claimed the All-Pro at the last possible second. Mike Tannenbaum and Rex Ryan were surely shocked, as they usually get their desired man.

The fans of the Jets are, for the lack of a better word, pissed. All the speculation of an elite combo of Revis and Asomugha was all for show, and Rex and crew came away empty handed.

Now, the Jets will look to resign Antonio Cromartie but bad blood might be seen as Cromartie could feel like a consolation prize. Others are rumoring a possible Asante Samuel deal, as the Eagles now possess three elite corners. Gang Green's best move may be acquiring a formidable pass rusher, such as Cullen Jenkins.

Over the past few seasons, the AFC East powerhouse has been let down by its pocket pressure, as an elite defensive end or outside linebacker has been a missing piece. The addition of Cullen Jenkins would let the Gang Green D get to the quarterback at will, like Rex has been dreaming of since his arrival in Gotham.

Without Asomugha, the Jets have plenty of cap room to spend, as they have asked many veterans to redo their contracts. Rex and Co. are also looking for a value wideout, which Braylon Edwards certainly isn't. The acquisition of Randy Moss could boast the Jets receiving corp and give him a big target with loads of talent.

If all goes to plan, the Jets could end up getting Cullen Jenkins, Antonio Cromartie and Randy Moss. This would fill all the Jets needs and perhaps be better for them than just the lone addition of Nnamdi Asomugha. Mike Tannenbaum is a magician on the phone, and he is used to getting what he wants.

Don't let the Asomugha controversy irk you Jet nation, as the Jets will get their men, one way or another. 

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/785078-losing-nnamdi-what-do-the-jets-do-now

Phil Hughes Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller

HBO Sports And MLB Productions' Documentary About Derek Jeter Is A Home Run


Jeter 3000th hit

Derek Jeter is a fairly reserved guy.

Sure, he gives a press conference after practically every game and he dates gorgeous women who aren't strangers to magazine covers, but Jeter plays his cards close to the vest.

The allure of HBO Sports and Major League Baseball Productions' documentary Derek Jeter 3K is how much The Captain lets his guard down and the cameras in. 

Derek Jeter 3K is a film about Derek's chase for 3,000 hits and the emotions he felt while trying to become the first New York Yankee ever to reach the historic number. Most of the filming took place between June 13, 2011 and the days immediately following July 9th, the day Jeter eclipsed the mark with a five-for-five showing.

"I didn't think about what the moment would be like, I just wanted to experience it with those fans." Those are the first words Jeter utters in the entire documentary, and they set the tone for one of the film's main themes: humility.

Derek Jeter has everything he could ever want in the world, yet time and time again throughout the movie's duration, Jeter talks about other people or how he's interacting with others.

Jeter addresses how heavily he resisted being placed on the disabled list with a relatively minor calf strain. His qualms come not only from wanting to play, but the fear he was disappointing people.

The cameras followed Derek to his rehab assignments and showed his interactions with coaches and assistants that have names no baseball fan would take the time to research in order to figure out who they are. Jeter knew them all by name and a had a story for each one of them.

While he was hurt, Jeter celebrated his 37th birthday in Tampa with a few of his closest friends. Among those friends was former teammate Gerald Williams. By coincidence, his birthday was the same day as this year's Old-Timers' Day. Jeter spent his birthday watching the game quietly with his buddies.

"Bernie [Williams] at Old-Timer's Day. And Tino. Gah!" Derek's comical realization of his age was possibly the only time in the movie where he expressed any dismay about anything.

Despite a few down seasons, the Bomber faithful have not ran him out on a rail is because Derek Jeter is a great dude if Derek Jeter 3K is truly any indication.

There are few flaws to Derek Jeter 3K. The music can get a bit monotonous just like the other professional sport league's produced movies, but that's a minor annoyance. The production quality is fantastic especially considering in how little time it was made. Also, Derek's apartment is amazing and we get to see a lot of it.

Just by opening the blinds that cover the window that peers into Derek Jeter's soul, HBO and MLB hit a home run here. It's safe to think of DJ3K as the Yankees' answer to ESPN's Four Days In October, and it took a lot of heart to even come close to matching that.

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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/nI4SXqkinr8/derek-jeter-3k-hbo-2011

Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn Andrew McDonald Matt Martin

How The NFL Network Is Killing NFL Films


NFL instant replay

When the NFL Network was founded eight years ago, it had the built-in advantage of already owning the great sports movie library ever constructed.

NFL Films has been archiving the history of the league for decades, providing the greatest "propoganda" films the world has ever seen.

Yet, according to the Philadelphia Daily News, NFL Network execs have ignored their older cousin, preferring cheaply-made knockoffs to gorgeous (but more expensive) shows created by Films.

The company has been decimated by layoffs and shrinking budgets, while the league continues to pump money into a channel that still hasn't found it's way into most (football-mad) American homes. NFL Films also loses money (and always has), but has been done so much to promote the sports that it's long enjoyed the support of former commissioners.

Former NFL Films executives and producers blame ESPN veterans Steve Bornstein and Howard Katz, who now run the two companies, but prefer the flashy, quicker style of their old home to the old fashioned style of Films.

"That really bothered me because the one thing about NFL Films was it was distinctive... It had a uniqueness. What's unique about the NFL Network? It looks like what it is. It looks like a knockoff of ESPN."

READ the full story at Philly.com >

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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/XDx9Zg3mCLY/how-the-nfl-network-is-killing-nfl-films-2011-7

A.J. Burnett Steve Garrison Phil Hughes Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood

Was browsing through the BC gear on The ACC Store when I found this sweatshirt listed among the...

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/7/28/2300762/was-browsing-through-the-bc-gear-on-the-acc-store-when-i-found-this

Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals Arizona Diamondbacks Atlanta Braves Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds

5 Challenges That Juergen Klinsmann Will Face in Rebuilding the U.S. Soccer Team

Bob Bradley needed firing.  The U.S. soccer team has basically been on a downward slide since it beat Spain in June 2009.  Since then, Bradley yakked on a 2-0 halftime lead against Brazil to lose 3-2, drew with the likes of England and Slovenia, and lost to Ghana and Panama.  The straw that broke the camel's back was the 4-2 beatdown that Mexico put on the U.S. in the Gold Cup finals in California last month.  

U.S. soccer fans are deliriously happy that he is finally gone, and with the news today that the German Juergen Klinsmann, formerly both player and coach for Deutschland, has been hired, there will be even more celebrating in Sam's Army.

But Klinsmann faces a very difficult rebuilding task, and not much time to get it done.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/784372-five-challenges-that-juergen-klinsman-will-face-in-rebuilding-the-us-soccer-team

Matt Martin Frans Nielsen Dwayne Roloson Jon Sim Jason Arnott David Clarkson

Daily Dish: Anatomy of a Champion

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/03/daily-dish-anatomy-of-champion.html

Toronto Maple Leafs Atlanta Trashers Carolina Hurricanes Florida Panthers Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals

Does NASCAR Increase Car Accidents On The Highways?


To assess the impact of televised, competitive, dangerous automobile racing (NASCAR) mass media on viewers' driving behaviors, all automobile accidents and injuries as a result of aggressive driving on file at the West Virginia Division of Highways for the years 2003 through 2006 were subjected to a regression analysis controlling for confounding variables, such as weather and road conditions. While the number of accidents declined on the day of the televised events, the number of accidents and injuries increased 5 days following the events. A priming theory of mass-media influence is discussed.

Source: "Driving Under the Influence (of Mass Media): A Four-Year Examination of NASCAR and West Virginia Aggressive-Driving Accidents and Injuries" from Journal of Applied Social Psychology

You should follow me on Facebook here or on Twitter. You'll find content there I don't post anywhere else. You can also subscribe via email or RSS. Check out the blog's most popular posts of all time.

If you're interested in our curious relationship with cars and driving, I recommend the book Traffic. 

Related posts:

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Traffic tickets: necessary evil or the state gouging you?

What statistic predicts traffic deaths better than any other? You'll be surprised.

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Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat

2011年7月29日金曜日

NFL Signings 2011: Grading the Top 20 Massive Free Agent and Trade Acquisitions

Looking at trades hours or days after they are announced is always a risky thing to do—a quick reaction is not always the best reaction.

That's why we've waited four or five hours to digest the last three days worth of NFL trades and acquisitions before letting it all out in one glorious information dump.

Sounds amazing, doesn't it?

While you will never win a trophy for the best offseason (sorry, Daniel Snyder), it is always fun to take a look at which teams have done the best work improving their teams thus far.

Who will come out on top? Will it be the Texans for breaking the market by signing the second-best cornerback available in Johnathan Joseph, or does a team like New England—who made two shocking trades today—come out on top?

A quick breakdown of our grading system inside:

Market: The grade assigned to the available talent at the player's position.

Value: The grade assigned to the value of compensation awarded, whether in contract or what was traded.

Fills a Need: A grade based on if the new player fills a need and/or fits the scheme of his new team.

Overall: The bottom-line, final grade.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/783963-nfl-signings-grading-the-top-20-massive-free-agent-and-trade-acquisitions

Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas

Friday Morning Fly By: Claude Giroux Was In Vegas With Paul Bissonnette Last Night

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/7/29/2302391/friday-morning-fly-by-claude-giroux-was-in-vegas-with-paul

Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies

Wednesday Morning Fly By: Pittsburgh Wants To Host The Draft (And So Do We)

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/7/27/2296801/wednesday-morning-fly-by-pittsburgh-wants-to-host-the-draft-and-so-do

Seattle Mariners Tampa Bay Rays Texas Rangers Toronto Blue Jays chicago blackhawks columbus blue jackets

Bob Bradley Fired from USMNT: Top 5 Possible Replacements as Coach

The USSF officially announced this afternoon that coach Bob Bradley had been relieved of his duties as USMNT manager.

Despite leading the USMNT to a first-place finish in Group C at the last World Cup, the news was widely followed by nationwide celebration and jubilation.

Many fans felt as though a fresh start was needed after the last World Cup cycle and that the USSF should have made this decision long ago, when the 2011 Gold Cup title was still a possibility.

We are expected to find out more about the situation and the reason for the coaching separation later this week, as well as possible candidates for the currently vacant manager spot.

If you would like to cease your celebration for a few minutes and observe who could be the USMNT coach of the future, give the following list a look. 

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/783780-bob-bradley-fired-from-usmnt-top-5-possible-replacements-as-coach

bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat Marcel Goc Jamie Lundmark Nick Spaling

U.S. Soccer Fires Men's National Team Coach Bob Bradley


Bob Bradley

U.S. Soccer has just announced that Men's National Team coach Bob Bradley has been "relieved of his duties."

Bradley has been the coach of the USMNT since 2007 and compiled a 43-25-12 record in international competition.

The team's biggest accomplishments under Bradley included an upset of world No. 1 Spain in the 2009 Confederations Cup and a spot in the Round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup.

(We're pretty sure he told Landon Donovan to do this.)

However, the team was upset by Ghana in the knockout stage and just last month blew a 2-0 lead against Mexico (while losing 4-2) in the Gold Cup final at Pasadena.

Those disappointments frustrated fans and officials who felt the U.S. was not progressing on the world stage.

The statement from U.S. soccer says, "During his time as the head coach of our Men’s National Team he led the team to a number of accomplishments, but we felt now was the right time for us to make a change."

His son, Michael, has been a member of the national team since 2006.

RELATED: Landon Donovan's Amazing Goal Against Algeria

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Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers New York Mets Philadelphia Phillies Pittsburgh Pirates

Part 2: NHL Draft Flashback?1970s

Last week I ran down the 1960s history of #1 draft picks, Today, I?m following that up with a look at the top picks from 1970 to 1979.  All in all, a very impressive and successful crew of NHLers. In fact, from 1968 all the way until 2005, every #1 draft pick went on to play a minimum of 299 games in the NHL.

In 1969, the league made a change to their Amateur Draft which resulted in more players than ever being included, ?as every junior of qualifying age (20-years) was available for selection.? 84 players were selected that year, making it, by far, the largest draft ever. 

Here are the #1 picks of the 1970s and a brief look at their career paths, both in hockey and after leaving the ice.

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/CandB/comments/part_2_nhl_draft_flashback_--_1970s/

Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona

Top 20 Corsi Rates

There is a debate in hockey sabermetrics about what is more important.  Are counting numbers (total number of a stat - for example goals) more meaningful that rate numbers (stats per unit time - for example goals per minute played) or vice versa?  My opinion is that nothing beats good counting numbers.  A fifty goal scorer is a good player and is more valuable than a 20 goal scorer, even if the 20 goal scorer had the same number of goals per minute played.  It is often true that players who succeed in lesser ice time have a more limited range of situations in which they can succeed.  If they were given the frontline ice time of the 50 goal scorer, their scoring rate would decline because they would have to be played outside the situations where they excel.  On the flip side, we are always looking for the next 50 goal scorer and who is a better candidate than a player who has the same scoring rate in lesser amounts of ice time?

I look at Corsi rate lists as a list of players who succeeded (or failed) in the role that they played, but they are strongly dependent upon the role played.  It is easier to come up with a ranked list that better fits skill levels from a counting rate list.  Nevertheless it is interesting and useful to see who succeeded in their role.

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/psh/comments/top_20_corsi_rates1/

Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds Colorado Rockies Florida Marlins Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers

Lumberjacks fall 2-1 in season series finale against Team USA

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/03/lumberjacks-fall-2-1-in-season-series.html

Atlanta Braves Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds Colorado Rockies Florida Marlins Houston Astros

Miami Dolphins: 4 Options at Quarterback If the Kyle Orton Trade Falls Through

Kyle Orton was supposed to a member of the Miami Dolphins by now. 

Yesterday, rumors of a potential deal between the Broncos and Dolphins were rampant, and it appeared as though the two sides would strike a deal.

Instead, Orton was taking reps with Denver's first team offense this afternoon. 

And ESPN's John Clayton provided an explanation via Twitter on Thursday afternoon saying, "The Orton trade won't happen until the Broncos get a better trade offer. That could still happen but they will keep him for now."

Clayton's tweet does not suggest that a trade will not happen but rather emphasizes the complications currently plaguing negotiations.

So, if the Dolphins fail to acquire Orton, who will they turn to? Here are four possibilities. 

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/783373-miami-dolphins-4-options-at-quarterback-if-the-kyle-orton-trade-falls-through

Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks

NFL Free Agency Rumors: Where the Top 5 Free Agents Should End Up

The NFL has never seen such a free agent feeding frenzy—with only a few days to negotiate with players, teams are frantically trying to snap up the best remaining free agent players on the market.

The top players will have multiple offers that they and their agents will have to sort through, but here are the top five free agents left on the market and where they could be heading. 

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/783324-nfl-free-agency-rumors-where-the-top-5-free-agents-should-end-up

Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Dodgers Minnesota Twins New York Yankees Oakland Athletics Seattle Mariners

Thursday a.m. Rangers stuff

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/7/28/2300303/thursday-a-m-rangers-stuff

Curtis Granderson Nick Johnson Javier Lopez Alex Hinshaw Ramon Ramirez Sergio Romo

The Big Lubanski: Kenai River captain helps bring Bears to respectability

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/03/big-lubanski-kenai-river-captain-helps.html

detroit red wings nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers

2011年7月28日木曜日

Preseason All ACC Team Announced: Luke Kuechly and Montel Harris Selected

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/7/27/2297880/all-acc-team-boston-college-luke-kuechly-montel-harris-ej-manuel

Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal

Avalanche 2010-2011: The Official Soundtrack

The Avs put together a disappointing performance in the 2010-2011 season with few highlights. So, as we look back on the season from the 1st of July 2010 up until now, let?s put a spin on it. Here are the top news-stories with a matching soundtrack.

Warning: Actually purchasing these songs and putting together a CD to listen to may be harmful to your soul. Do you really want to be reminded of this season?

The Offspring - Can?t repeat

Colorado Avalanche started the season with high hopes of repeating the success of 2009-2010, when the club reached the playoffs. With stellar play from Craig Anderson (2.67 GAA) once again, and the young players on the roster taking another step forward, surely this team was bound for the playoffs once again? Unfortunately, no. Anderson was only a year removed from a career season, but didn?t come close this year, playing 33 games with a 3.28 GAA and save percentage below 90 percent. Avs ended up in 14th place in the Western Conference.

 

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/avalanche_2010-2011_the_official_soundtrack/

Ramon Ramirez Sergio Romo Brian Wilson Eli Whiteside Mike Fontenot Brett Pill