I have been calling ball games on the radio since 1971 and in the last ten years or so have added TV games. I do it because I enjoy it but at times you wonder who might be listening and watching if any.
There are special times when you run into a grandmother in a store and they ask if you are the man on the radio or TV and how much they enjoy and thank you for doing the games because it is hard for them to go to games to see their children or grand children play. Because I was there they could be there also. Those are the times that generate your heart and motivate to go to the next game regardless of it's importance because there is someone out there that needs you to be there.
Modern times have brought on the use of computers for blogs which have added to my media exposure. Like talking on the radio or TV I like doing this blog almost on a daily schedule passing along what information I might know that sometimes you cannot get any where else.
There is a core following to this blog and I thank those of you who are with me every step of the way. But like radio you wonder sometimes whether you are wasting your time until you receive a note from someone thanking you for kind words you have said about someone.
That happened back in May when high school baseball season was over. If you go back in my archives around May 20th or so I did a story on Dillon Cockrell who I said in the article was my favorite baseball player from Rocky Mount. A few days later I received a thank you note from Dillon's family thanking me for my kind word about him.
Just like hearing from those on radio it gets next to my heart to think that I have said something on this blog that is important to someone.
A few days later I got a call from a friend Gene Taylor who is a family friend of the Cockrell's. Gene expressed to me his appreciation for what I had said and told me of how much it had effected the Cockrell family. He told me of a plan he had that he wanted to take that article on my blog and have it printed up and put it on a plaque and give it to the Cockrell's.
Last night I had dinner with Gene and Wes Bradshaw. Gene had the finished product with him and he wanted me to sign it on the bottom.
Knowing that what you have done will hang on a wall in someone's home kind of gets me right here in my heart.
I may have made a family's life a little brighter for a day or two but I can tell you what Gene Taylor has done not only affect the Cockrell's but me too.
Thank You Gene,
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
The World Of Twenty Four Hour News
Texas Tech has fire their football coach for basically locking a player up in the storage room. There seems to be a rift between coach and player and when the player was injured in practice with a concussion this was the coaches punishment to him.
Since I am from the old school I came up during the time of "Bull in the ring". If you were put in a circle with five or six players surrounding you with each having a number. When your number was called you tackled the player in the middle. You would move back to your position and another number was called until the player in the middle was exhausted. If you failed to tackle him once the player basically went down to his knees and couldn't get up, you were put in the ring.
My Junior year the first week of summer practice our second string quarterback's family went on vacation and he missed the first week. His first day to practice we went through a normal practice and after we had done our conditioning sprints and suicides we were told to go down on one knee at the back of the end zone. Our coach called for vacation boy to come forward and proceeded to make him continue to do sprints in front of the team until he quit the team.
As the years have passed coaches have become more humane in their treatment so locking a player in a storage room is mild to what I grew up being exposed to.
Now days if the player can't follow your rules kick him off the team and don't worry with him any more or make him follow the rules to come back.
I know they are out there on the other coast but the people who pull for UCLA must be pulling their hair out at this season. The leading NCAA basketball championship school is only 7-7 so far this year. Carolina has lost three games this year and Carolina fans are pulling their hair out over that.
Kentucky in the middle of December became the first major college to win 2,000 game. That is impressive but I have to give Carolina some love here. Kentucky has been playing basketball for seven more years and it will not take Carolina seven years to hit 2,000. Maybe next year?
The ACC loses another bowl game. Miami was man handled by Wisconsin but the game was not as close as the score.
Since I am from the old school I came up during the time of "Bull in the ring". If you were put in a circle with five or six players surrounding you with each having a number. When your number was called you tackled the player in the middle. You would move back to your position and another number was called until the player in the middle was exhausted. If you failed to tackle him once the player basically went down to his knees and couldn't get up, you were put in the ring.
My Junior year the first week of summer practice our second string quarterback's family went on vacation and he missed the first week. His first day to practice we went through a normal practice and after we had done our conditioning sprints and suicides we were told to go down on one knee at the back of the end zone. Our coach called for vacation boy to come forward and proceeded to make him continue to do sprints in front of the team until he quit the team.
As the years have passed coaches have become more humane in their treatment so locking a player in a storage room is mild to what I grew up being exposed to.
Now days if the player can't follow your rules kick him off the team and don't worry with him any more or make him follow the rules to come back.
I know they are out there on the other coast but the people who pull for UCLA must be pulling their hair out at this season. The leading NCAA basketball championship school is only 7-7 so far this year. Carolina has lost three games this year and Carolina fans are pulling their hair out over that.
Kentucky in the middle of December became the first major college to win 2,000 game. That is impressive but I have to give Carolina some love here. Kentucky has been playing basketball for seven more years and it will not take Carolina seven years to hit 2,000. Maybe next year?
The ACC loses another bowl game. Miami was man handled by Wisconsin but the game was not as close as the score.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Two Titles For Gryphons
The Lady Gryphons of Rocky Mount High school had little trouble in dumping the home standing Lady Knights of Northern Nash in the Nash County Holiday tournament finals by a score of 40-21. The Lady Gryphons are now 7-2 on the season.
The Rocky Mount boys found themselves having to face off against the home standing Knights of Northern Nash and blitzes the Knights in the first half to lead 45-27. Northern tried to make a game of it in the second half but lose to the Gryphons 58-44. Darius Mcknight was named MVP of the tournament. The victory is number eight in nine games for the Gryphons.
The Gryphons will not hit the hardwood again until next Wednesday when they travel to Hertford County to meet the Bears in Non-conference action.
College basketball tonight Duke and North Carolina State both won. John Scheyer of Duke and Dennis Horner of State both lead their teams in victory. Coaches all the time pride themselves in being able to say that a player improved during their stay at their schools. Both Scheyer and Horner have gotten better every year and if the ACC player of the year was given out today Scheyer would probably win it.
Nash County's Julius Peppers has made the Pro Bowl for the Carolina Panthers. Peppers who has 10.5 sacks so far this season will pick up a 1.5 million dollars bonus for making the team. Not bad for a player who said during the off season he wanted to play for someone else. The bonus means Peppers who is making a million dollars per regular season game will make a little more in the all star game.
By the way my man Philip Rivers has made the team but I hope he doesn't play in the game, for the first time ever the pro bowl is being played the Sunday before the Super Bowl in the same city as the Super Bowl which this year is Miami. The reason I hope he doesn't play is, if the Chargers are in the Super Bowl he will be replace in the Pro Bowl.
Sunday will be the final game of the year for the Carolina Panthers. Who would have ever thought say a month ago that the Panthers might win this game with New Orleans. A month ago both the Saints and Minnesota looked like automatics for the NFC championship game. Today Green Bay,Arizona, Philadelphia and even Dallas may be better than both.
The Rocky Mount boys found themselves having to face off against the home standing Knights of Northern Nash and blitzes the Knights in the first half to lead 45-27. Northern tried to make a game of it in the second half but lose to the Gryphons 58-44. Darius Mcknight was named MVP of the tournament. The victory is number eight in nine games for the Gryphons.
The Gryphons will not hit the hardwood again until next Wednesday when they travel to Hertford County to meet the Bears in Non-conference action.
College basketball tonight Duke and North Carolina State both won. John Scheyer of Duke and Dennis Horner of State both lead their teams in victory. Coaches all the time pride themselves in being able to say that a player improved during their stay at their schools. Both Scheyer and Horner have gotten better every year and if the ACC player of the year was given out today Scheyer would probably win it.
Nash County's Julius Peppers has made the Pro Bowl for the Carolina Panthers. Peppers who has 10.5 sacks so far this season will pick up a 1.5 million dollars bonus for making the team. Not bad for a player who said during the off season he wanted to play for someone else. The bonus means Peppers who is making a million dollars per regular season game will make a little more in the all star game.
By the way my man Philip Rivers has made the team but I hope he doesn't play in the game, for the first time ever the pro bowl is being played the Sunday before the Super Bowl in the same city as the Super Bowl which this year is Miami. The reason I hope he doesn't play is, if the Chargers are in the Super Bowl he will be replace in the Pro Bowl.
Sunday will be the final game of the year for the Carolina Panthers. Who would have ever thought say a month ago that the Panthers might win this game with New Orleans. A month ago both the Saints and Minnesota looked like automatics for the NFC championship game. Today Green Bay,Arizona, Philadelphia and even Dallas may be better than both.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Gryphons Sail into Finals
Monday afternoon the Gryphon girls basketball team won by nearly twenty points over Nash Central and tonight the Gryphon boys beat Nash central 56-42.
This sets up for the girls to play Northern Nash's girls at 6.00pm Tuesday night and the boys wait on the Northern Nash-Southern Nash winner at 8.00pm Tuesday.
Victory's today run the girls record to 6-2 and now the boys are 7-1.
If only the moved had been made sooner. The Carolina Panthers seem to be adjusted to Matt Moore being their quarterback and after the start that Jake Delhomme had throwing nine interceptions the first two games, suppose the Panthers had made of the change then over waiting until game twelve. They just might have made the playoffs.
Thinking like that Suppose Chicago had of replace Jay Cutler, who leads the league in interceptions and by far and away the worse player in the NFL this year. Sometimes changes work and sometimes they are duds.
So far in Bowl action the ACC is 1-2. Clemson gave the ACC their first win last night beating Kentucky after Carolina and Boston college lost on Saturday.
Dallas victory last night over the deadskins knocked the New York Giants out. Philadelphia and Dallas plays Sunday for the Eastern Division champs over a road game in the first round.
Lets look at the NFC Right now New Orleans has the best record but it seems they peaked too early. Minnesota seems as if they are not as good as they once were. Philadelphia/ Dallas, I don't trust either in crunch time. Arizona seems like everyone has forgotten them.
The AFC The Chargers look unbeatable but there is still five weeks to the Super Bowl.Did Indy mess up by pulling their starter Sunday and killing their momentum? I don't take Cincy seriously. Somebody is going to have to knock New England out. Any body else is just filling out the bracket. With all that said who knows who is going to win!
This sets up for the girls to play Northern Nash's girls at 6.00pm Tuesday night and the boys wait on the Northern Nash-Southern Nash winner at 8.00pm Tuesday.
Victory's today run the girls record to 6-2 and now the boys are 7-1.
If only the moved had been made sooner. The Carolina Panthers seem to be adjusted to Matt Moore being their quarterback and after the start that Jake Delhomme had throwing nine interceptions the first two games, suppose the Panthers had made of the change then over waiting until game twelve. They just might have made the playoffs.
Thinking like that Suppose Chicago had of replace Jay Cutler, who leads the league in interceptions and by far and away the worse player in the NFL this year. Sometimes changes work and sometimes they are duds.
So far in Bowl action the ACC is 1-2. Clemson gave the ACC their first win last night beating Kentucky after Carolina and Boston college lost on Saturday.
Dallas victory last night over the deadskins knocked the New York Giants out. Philadelphia and Dallas plays Sunday for the Eastern Division champs over a road game in the first round.
Lets look at the NFC Right now New Orleans has the best record but it seems they peaked too early. Minnesota seems as if they are not as good as they once were. Philadelphia/ Dallas, I don't trust either in crunch time. Arizona seems like everyone has forgotten them.
The AFC The Chargers look unbeatable but there is still five weeks to the Super Bowl.Did Indy mess up by pulling their starter Sunday and killing their momentum? I don't take Cincy seriously. Somebody is going to have to knock New England out. Any body else is just filling out the bracket. With all that said who knows who is going to win!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
To Be Undefeated Or Not Undefeated
The wacky world of the NFL. There are teams scrambling in the middle still trying to get in the playoffs.
The top two Teams in the AFC took different roads this weekend.. San Diego no longer needing to win to be in the playoffs but needed to win to earn the #2 seed and a home playoff game in round two. The Chargers went all out for three quarters and secured victory before they pulled Philip Rivers and other valuable players.
Today with an undefeated season still a possibility Indianapolis chose to pull Peyton Manning and their valuable players early into the third quarter with only a 15-10 lead. The second team could do nothing and the New York Jets are back in the playoff picture and the Colts are no longer undefeated.
The NFC is more muddled tonight after New Orleans laid a egg against the Tampa Bay Bucs. The Saints no longer seem to be on a straight road to the Super Bowl. Minnesota right now #2 in the NFC has lost two of three games and the playoffs in the NFC may be falling to the best team in the NFC last year in the Cardinals.
The AFC has New England who can wins big at home and gets killed on the road. Cincinnati has a really good defense but can't score.
The NFC Philadelphia just doesn't thrill me and Dallas keeps hanging around.
Let's turn our attention to high school basketball. Nash County basketball tournament starts Monday at 2.00pm. The Lady Gryphons open up play at 2.00pm against Nash Central. The Gryphon boys don't hit the court until 6.00pm.
As of right now Rocky Mount does not have another home game until in basketball until January 21st. However there is a makeup game with Rose that will be a home game when ever the date is set up. That seems like a long time but there is a week of exams in there in which there will be no basketball.
The top two Teams in the AFC took different roads this weekend.. San Diego no longer needing to win to be in the playoffs but needed to win to earn the #2 seed and a home playoff game in round two. The Chargers went all out for three quarters and secured victory before they pulled Philip Rivers and other valuable players.
Today with an undefeated season still a possibility Indianapolis chose to pull Peyton Manning and their valuable players early into the third quarter with only a 15-10 lead. The second team could do nothing and the New York Jets are back in the playoff picture and the Colts are no longer undefeated.
The NFC is more muddled tonight after New Orleans laid a egg against the Tampa Bay Bucs. The Saints no longer seem to be on a straight road to the Super Bowl. Minnesota right now #2 in the NFC has lost two of three games and the playoffs in the NFC may be falling to the best team in the NFC last year in the Cardinals.
The AFC has New England who can wins big at home and gets killed on the road. Cincinnati has a really good defense but can't score.
The NFC Philadelphia just doesn't thrill me and Dallas keeps hanging around.
Let's turn our attention to high school basketball. Nash County basketball tournament starts Monday at 2.00pm. The Lady Gryphons open up play at 2.00pm against Nash Central. The Gryphon boys don't hit the court until 6.00pm.
As of right now Rocky Mount does not have another home game until in basketball until January 21st. However there is a makeup game with Rose that will be a home game when ever the date is set up. That seems like a long time but there is a week of exams in there in which there will be no basketball.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Tar Heels Lose In Charlotte.
This entire football season the Tar heels lived by their defense. Tonight once again needing the defense to win the Heel's defense gave up a fourth quarter drive and eventual field goal and Pittsburgh beat North Carolina 19-17. This one game was a snap shot of Carolinas season.
Carolina seemed very lucky to be even in this game at the half as Pittsburgh dominated most of the first quarter but only had a field goal.
Stephan Virgil's career at Virginia Tech is over. Virgil has been ruled ineligible for the Orange Bowl games because of academics. The 2005 Rocky Mount graduate was just voted on this web site the top Gryphon football player of the decade.
The Nash County basketball tournament starts Monday at Northern Nash. The 5-2 Lady Gryphons begin play at 2.00pm Monday against Nash Central while the 6-1 Gryphon boys play Nash central at 6.00pm.
Shocking news tonight out of Gainesville Florida that Urban Myer will resign after the Sugar Bowl because of health reasons. This is about as shocking when I heard Lou Holtz had signed on with the New York Jets way back in 1975. I remember to this day what I was doing when I heard Holtz was leaving the Wolfpack. I was at a stop light waiting on traffic at Military Circle Mall in Norfolk Virginia when the news came across the radio that Holtz was gone.
The NFL is down to 2 games for most teams and the playoffs will be on. There is a push on in the NFL to make sure players and concussions are looked after more than ever.
Brian Westbrook has been out of action for the Eagles for nearly a month now. There is talk that because of the concussions the Eagles are going to retire him at the end of the season. I find this curious that he has been activated for the Eagles game Sunday. If he is having such problems with his concussions why would they activate him to play tomorrow.
This just seems to me to be looking out for the next game over the health of a player.
Friday Night's NFL game on the NFL Network the Chargers walloped the Titans. Growing up I was always a Washington Redskin Fan. I have been to RFK many times and bounced up and down when "Hail to the Redskins" was playing. When the Panthers were born I switched to our home state team. The moment Philip Rivers became a Charger I have split my allegiance between the Panthers and Rivers.
I know this is a homer talking about his player but right now is there a better player in the NFL than Philip Rivers. If I had to guess that Peyton Manning will win the MVP award with Drew Brees second. Neither of those two players have had the two year run that Rivers has going. He was the top rated passer in then league last year and after Friday Night's game he move to second this year behind Brees.
Rivers four years as a starting quarterback he is second on the all time list of quarterback ratings only Steve Young is Better. Rivers has lead the Chargers to the highest scoring average in the first 60 games starting of any quarterback in history 29.8. Of course the 18-0 record in December which is the best of all time in NFL History. If the Chargers win the Super Bowl all those records will mean a lot more.
Carolina seemed very lucky to be even in this game at the half as Pittsburgh dominated most of the first quarter but only had a field goal.
Stephan Virgil's career at Virginia Tech is over. Virgil has been ruled ineligible for the Orange Bowl games because of academics. The 2005 Rocky Mount graduate was just voted on this web site the top Gryphon football player of the decade.
The Nash County basketball tournament starts Monday at Northern Nash. The 5-2 Lady Gryphons begin play at 2.00pm Monday against Nash Central while the 6-1 Gryphon boys play Nash central at 6.00pm.
Shocking news tonight out of Gainesville Florida that Urban Myer will resign after the Sugar Bowl because of health reasons. This is about as shocking when I heard Lou Holtz had signed on with the New York Jets way back in 1975. I remember to this day what I was doing when I heard Holtz was leaving the Wolfpack. I was at a stop light waiting on traffic at Military Circle Mall in Norfolk Virginia when the news came across the radio that Holtz was gone.
The NFL is down to 2 games for most teams and the playoffs will be on. There is a push on in the NFL to make sure players and concussions are looked after more than ever.
Brian Westbrook has been out of action for the Eagles for nearly a month now. There is talk that because of the concussions the Eagles are going to retire him at the end of the season. I find this curious that he has been activated for the Eagles game Sunday. If he is having such problems with his concussions why would they activate him to play tomorrow.
This just seems to me to be looking out for the next game over the health of a player.
Friday Night's NFL game on the NFL Network the Chargers walloped the Titans. Growing up I was always a Washington Redskin Fan. I have been to RFK many times and bounced up and down when "Hail to the Redskins" was playing. When the Panthers were born I switched to our home state team. The moment Philip Rivers became a Charger I have split my allegiance between the Panthers and Rivers.
I know this is a homer talking about his player but right now is there a better player in the NFL than Philip Rivers. If I had to guess that Peyton Manning will win the MVP award with Drew Brees second. Neither of those two players have had the two year run that Rivers has going. He was the top rated passer in then league last year and after Friday Night's game he move to second this year behind Brees.
Rivers four years as a starting quarterback he is second on the all time list of quarterback ratings only Steve Young is Better. Rivers has lead the Chargers to the highest scoring average in the first 60 games starting of any quarterback in history 29.8. Of course the 18-0 record in December which is the best of all time in NFL History. If the Chargers win the Super Bowl all those records will mean a lot more.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Eve
I have just finished watching the N C State basketball game against Arizona in Tucson. State tied the game with 7.9 seconds to go only to give up a layup with .9 seconds to go. The inbound pass State heaved a 75 foot shot which hit the back iron between the rim and backboard and scared everyone in the Gym until the ball fell off.
If only State had a point guard who knew how to pass the ball somewhere besides outside the three point line to his teammates they would be dangerous, but no team that can't get the ball to the open shooters can beat anybody in close games.
Glad to see that Carolina had another home game and Roy Williams stuck to coaching in this one instead of being a rabbit eared usher. I guess all tickets were checked if you sit on the same side Roy sits on.
There seems to be a power struggle in Minnesota between Brett Favre and his head coach. This struggle seems to be affecting the team as they have now lost two out of three games.
The NFL returns for a Friday night game between the San Diego Chargers and the Tennessee Titans. Hope you have a dish to watch this game on the NFL Network.
Carolina Football will be in Charlotte Saturday to take on Pittsburgh. I think game time is 4.30. This should be a really good game if both teams show up to play.
I see that the Liberty bowl game for ECU is sold out. This could be the biggest game ECU has played in since beating Miami in Raleigh in 1999.
The Big Ten which actually has 11 teams is hinting around that they may want to add a team. Everyone thinks it will be Notre Dame but what if it were Pittsburgh or Syracuse. There just might be an opening in the Big East for ECU.
I want to wish every one a Merry Christmas. I probably will not blog again until after the Carolina Football game Saturday night.
If only State had a point guard who knew how to pass the ball somewhere besides outside the three point line to his teammates they would be dangerous, but no team that can't get the ball to the open shooters can beat anybody in close games.
Glad to see that Carolina had another home game and Roy Williams stuck to coaching in this one instead of being a rabbit eared usher. I guess all tickets were checked if you sit on the same side Roy sits on.
There seems to be a power struggle in Minnesota between Brett Favre and his head coach. This struggle seems to be affecting the team as they have now lost two out of three games.
The NFL returns for a Friday night game between the San Diego Chargers and the Tennessee Titans. Hope you have a dish to watch this game on the NFL Network.
Carolina Football will be in Charlotte Saturday to take on Pittsburgh. I think game time is 4.30. This should be a really good game if both teams show up to play.
I see that the Liberty bowl game for ECU is sold out. This could be the biggest game ECU has played in since beating Miami in Raleigh in 1999.
The Big Ten which actually has 11 teams is hinting around that they may want to add a team. Everyone thinks it will be Notre Dame but what if it were Pittsburgh or Syracuse. There just might be an opening in the Big East for ECU.
I want to wish every one a Merry Christmas. I probably will not blog again until after the Carolina Football game Saturday night.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Revenge
Earlier this month Beddingfield swept a double header away from Gryphon basketball in beating the girls and boys.
Last night at home the Lady Gryphon got even with the Beddingfield girls winning 55-41. Just a couple of weeks ago Beddingfield had won a close 45-41 game. Danita Whitaker lead the way for the Lady Gryphons with 15 followed by Alexis Farmer who added 13.
The Lady Gryphon finish up the PreCristmas portion of their schedule at 5-2. They play at 2.00pm Monday in the Nash County Holiday Tournament at Northern and they will meet Nash Central.
Beddingfield boys rained down threes in the first half and Gryphon Forward TaShawn Mabrey sat out most of the second quarter protecting two fouls. This lead to a ten point 37-27 lead for Beddingfield at the half.
The second half saw Beddingfieldg just 1-13 in three point shooting and TaShawn and Company took care of business winning 69-61. Mabrey finished with 21 points but Kenyatta Bullock tossed in two key three point shots in the third quarter while Beddingfield was missing theirs to turn the game around. Bullock finished the night with 13 points.
The Gryphons are now 6-1 on the season waiting for their next action next Monday night 6.00pm against Nash central in the Holiday tournament.
Good to see that Lindsey Thomas the Lady Gryphon #1 tennis player was named this week as the "Rocky Mount Telegram" Tennis player of the year.
The Big East has named their first All Conference football team. Last year's undefeated team placed 14 to the first team. Quite a difference this year as the Gryphons only get five sports on the first team.
Marquavis Alston three time thousand yard rusher for Rocky Mount get the Co- Offensive Player of the year award. He is joined on the offense by linemen Zeb Battle. Jordan Ford makes the first team as the return specialist.
The defensive side sees All Conference honors go to Donte Harrison and Marcus Jones.
Second team all conference goes to quarterback Collins Cuthrell and Linebacker Aaron Barnes.
Honorable Mentions finds Gryphon defensive player Nah Jerrell Graves on the team.
School ended yesterday and is now out for the holidays.
Last night at home the Lady Gryphon got even with the Beddingfield girls winning 55-41. Just a couple of weeks ago Beddingfield had won a close 45-41 game. Danita Whitaker lead the way for the Lady Gryphons with 15 followed by Alexis Farmer who added 13.
The Lady Gryphon finish up the PreCristmas portion of their schedule at 5-2. They play at 2.00pm Monday in the Nash County Holiday Tournament at Northern and they will meet Nash Central.
Beddingfield boys rained down threes in the first half and Gryphon Forward TaShawn Mabrey sat out most of the second quarter protecting two fouls. This lead to a ten point 37-27 lead for Beddingfield at the half.
The second half saw Beddingfieldg just 1-13 in three point shooting and TaShawn and Company took care of business winning 69-61. Mabrey finished with 21 points but Kenyatta Bullock tossed in two key three point shots in the third quarter while Beddingfield was missing theirs to turn the game around. Bullock finished the night with 13 points.
The Gryphons are now 6-1 on the season waiting for their next action next Monday night 6.00pm against Nash central in the Holiday tournament.
Good to see that Lindsey Thomas the Lady Gryphon #1 tennis player was named this week as the "Rocky Mount Telegram" Tennis player of the year.
The Big East has named their first All Conference football team. Last year's undefeated team placed 14 to the first team. Quite a difference this year as the Gryphons only get five sports on the first team.
Marquavis Alston three time thousand yard rusher for Rocky Mount get the Co- Offensive Player of the year award. He is joined on the offense by linemen Zeb Battle. Jordan Ford makes the first team as the return specialist.
The defensive side sees All Conference honors go to Donte Harrison and Marcus Jones.
Second team all conference goes to quarterback Collins Cuthrell and Linebacker Aaron Barnes.
Honorable Mentions finds Gryphon defensive player Nah Jerrell Graves on the team.
School ended yesterday and is now out for the holidays.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Double header Victory
Last night the Rocky Mount Gryphons were host to Hertford County in varsity basketball and both the girls and boys win.
The girls were lead by Tamishia Walker with 18 points, Alexis Farmer chippped in 14 and Tia Hudgins added 13. Those three scored 45 of the Gryphon 51 points in winning 51-31 over the Lady Bears.
In the boys action it looked like a two man show for three quarters as TaShawn Mabrey and Detrail Jenkins score forty of the Gryphon first fifty points before the outside starting making shots. At one point the Gryphons lead 65-46 but a fourth quarter rally by the Bears saw the final score at 72-65.
The girls are now 4-2 on the season and the boys upped their record to 5-1. Little time to enjoy as they are right back in action tonight against Beddingfield. Beddingfield swept the Gryphons earlier this month at Beddingfield.
Today is the last day of school before the Christmas break.
The NFL there are not that many teams that are just plain better than everyone else. Each week is more of who wants it more. Last night a desperate New York Giants team clobbered a hapless Washington Redskins team playing out their season for a coach about to lose his job.
If you had no idea what their records were before the game started it didn't take long to see who had a shot at the playoffs. The Giants win 45-12.
If you didn't know it already I think the AFC has dominated this year when they have played the NFC. How can you Tell. Going into next week's action the AFC has seven teams at 7-7,two at 8-6, and then there is Cincinnati at 9-5 leading the AFC North. You also have New England at 9-5 leading the AFC East. San Diego is 11-3 and the Colts are perfect so far at 14-0.
That's 13 of the 16 AFC teams right now have at least a 500 record or better. That could only happen unless they are dominating the NFC when they play each other.
The girls were lead by Tamishia Walker with 18 points, Alexis Farmer chippped in 14 and Tia Hudgins added 13. Those three scored 45 of the Gryphon 51 points in winning 51-31 over the Lady Bears.
In the boys action it looked like a two man show for three quarters as TaShawn Mabrey and Detrail Jenkins score forty of the Gryphon first fifty points before the outside starting making shots. At one point the Gryphons lead 65-46 but a fourth quarter rally by the Bears saw the final score at 72-65.
The girls are now 4-2 on the season and the boys upped their record to 5-1. Little time to enjoy as they are right back in action tonight against Beddingfield. Beddingfield swept the Gryphons earlier this month at Beddingfield.
Today is the last day of school before the Christmas break.
The NFL there are not that many teams that are just plain better than everyone else. Each week is more of who wants it more. Last night a desperate New York Giants team clobbered a hapless Washington Redskins team playing out their season for a coach about to lose his job.
If you had no idea what their records were before the game started it didn't take long to see who had a shot at the playoffs. The Giants win 45-12.
If you didn't know it already I think the AFC has dominated this year when they have played the NFC. How can you Tell. Going into next week's action the AFC has seven teams at 7-7,two at 8-6, and then there is Cincinnati at 9-5 leading the AFC North. You also have New England at 9-5 leading the AFC East. San Diego is 11-3 and the Colts are perfect so far at 14-0.
That's 13 of the 16 AFC teams right now have at least a 500 record or better. That could only happen unless they are dominating the NFC when they play each other.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Gryphons Home twice This week
School gets out for Christmas break after Tuesday so the Rocky Mount Gryphon basketball team will play tonight and Tuesday.
Monday night Hertford County will visit as over the past several years Mike Gainey and Hertford County Athletic Director Charles Simmons have developed a very good relationship and we now play Hertford County in just about every sport.
Tuesday Rose will be in gym as the Gryphon boys will be trying to improve on their 4-1 start and the girls 3-2 record.
Next week of course is the Nash County tournament and two more non conference games next week.
I am glad Ocho Cinco finally gave up on the idea of wearing teammate Chris Henry's jersey in his honor yesterday while playing San Diego.
All of the foolishness that 85 does back fired on him in this case. If he was a model citizen and not always trying to do things to glorify himself after big plays the NFL might have said "go ahead" but it was viewed as another stunt.
You have to say bravo to Cincinnati as they put up a tremendous effort only to have the Chargers win on the last play.
I'm telling you the best team in the NFL RIGHT now is San Diego. We will see again after next week.
I know you probably were not around at the end of this dud of a game but Carolina scored 21 fourth quarter points and beat a tire looking Brett Favre and Minnesota 27-7. Since Green Bay lost earlier in the day the Vikes had already clinched at least second in the NFC. Carolina had already been knocked out of any possible playoffs by Dallas Saturday night. Both teams played like they were going through the motions.
Wake Forest beat N C State as both teams started ACC play last night. For N C State fans it looks like the Same old same old. Even though they won I don't see Wake making the NCAA playoffs unless it is changed to 96 teams by then.
Monday night Hertford County will visit as over the past several years Mike Gainey and Hertford County Athletic Director Charles Simmons have developed a very good relationship and we now play Hertford County in just about every sport.
Tuesday Rose will be in gym as the Gryphon boys will be trying to improve on their 4-1 start and the girls 3-2 record.
Next week of course is the Nash County tournament and two more non conference games next week.
I am glad Ocho Cinco finally gave up on the idea of wearing teammate Chris Henry's jersey in his honor yesterday while playing San Diego.
All of the foolishness that 85 does back fired on him in this case. If he was a model citizen and not always trying to do things to glorify himself after big plays the NFL might have said "go ahead" but it was viewed as another stunt.
You have to say bravo to Cincinnati as they put up a tremendous effort only to have the Chargers win on the last play.
I'm telling you the best team in the NFL RIGHT now is San Diego. We will see again after next week.
I know you probably were not around at the end of this dud of a game but Carolina scored 21 fourth quarter points and beat a tire looking Brett Favre and Minnesota 27-7. Since Green Bay lost earlier in the day the Vikes had already clinched at least second in the NFC. Carolina had already been knocked out of any possible playoffs by Dallas Saturday night. Both teams played like they were going through the motions.
Wake Forest beat N C State as both teams started ACC play last night. For N C State fans it looks like the Same old same old. Even though they won I don't see Wake making the NCAA playoffs unless it is changed to 96 teams by then.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
One Undefeated Left
Last night Dallas went to New Orleans and with all the talk about can't win in December laid the leather on the Saints through three quarters. Cowboys hold on and win 24-17 in front of an NFL Network audience and those of us who watched it on Internet.
It just goes to show you that in the NFL you as only as good as the game today. My feelings are the Cowboys are one of those teams that when they play well are good but don't live up to their hype. New Orleans probably got caught up in the undefeated season talk.
If you missed it last night you may have missed one of the most competitive sporting events this year. The National Championship Volley ball match between Texas and Penn State. Penn State was riding a 101 match winning streak and trying to win their third National championship in a row.
All five sets were nip and tuck and Penn State won the fifth set 15-13. This was a very entertaining evening.
Speaking of Texas, Carolina loses in the Jerry Jones Dome 103-90 to Texas. All those six feet ten inch guys for Carolina were killed on the boards by the Longhorns.
Duke has something that Carolina doesn't have, guard play. Duke made a laugher of their game with Gonzaga in New York. I wonder with the weather if Duke is stuck in the Big Apple?
I do this all the time. I will go and read the opposing teams paper of their version of a game. Since I really like the San Diego Chargers I have been reading the Cincinnati Enquirer this week to get a read on what the Bengals are thinking. Of course the Chris Henry death has been in the news a lot and talk about haunted.
The Cincinnati Bengals have been in existence for 42 years. During that time they have had 33 players or former players to die. Three have been in their twenties, seven in their thirties, twelve in their forties, eight in their fifties and only three that made it to sixty or more.
The Enquirers story was about the hard luck Bengals and all the ways the players are dieing. Cancer was the main culprit but the Bengals have not had one player to die that is considered by natural causes.
Finally today on a brighter note. Rocky Mount's Tom Suiter and Channel Five were in Tarboro on Thursday to give the Vikings the Fabulous Fifteen award for 2009 in football. When you win the awards just come your way.
The annual Shrine bowl game was played yesterday and North Carolina defeated the Sandlappers of South Carolina 24-14.
It just goes to show you that in the NFL you as only as good as the game today. My feelings are the Cowboys are one of those teams that when they play well are good but don't live up to their hype. New Orleans probably got caught up in the undefeated season talk.
If you missed it last night you may have missed one of the most competitive sporting events this year. The National Championship Volley ball match between Texas and Penn State. Penn State was riding a 101 match winning streak and trying to win their third National championship in a row.
All five sets were nip and tuck and Penn State won the fifth set 15-13. This was a very entertaining evening.
Speaking of Texas, Carolina loses in the Jerry Jones Dome 103-90 to Texas. All those six feet ten inch guys for Carolina were killed on the boards by the Longhorns.
Duke has something that Carolina doesn't have, guard play. Duke made a laugher of their game with Gonzaga in New York. I wonder with the weather if Duke is stuck in the Big Apple?
I do this all the time. I will go and read the opposing teams paper of their version of a game. Since I really like the San Diego Chargers I have been reading the Cincinnati Enquirer this week to get a read on what the Bengals are thinking. Of course the Chris Henry death has been in the news a lot and talk about haunted.
The Cincinnati Bengals have been in existence for 42 years. During that time they have had 33 players or former players to die. Three have been in their twenties, seven in their thirties, twelve in their forties, eight in their fifties and only three that made it to sixty or more.
The Enquirers story was about the hard luck Bengals and all the ways the players are dieing. Cancer was the main culprit but the Bengals have not had one player to die that is considered by natural causes.
Finally today on a brighter note. Rocky Mount's Tom Suiter and Channel Five were in Tarboro on Thursday to give the Vikings the Fabulous Fifteen award for 2009 in football. When you win the awards just come your way.
The annual Shrine bowl game was played yesterday and North Carolina defeated the Sandlappers of South Carolina 24-14.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Walter Peyton Award (Almost)
Former Rocky Mount High school athlete Terrell Hudgins finished second in the voting for the Walter Peyton award which is the award as the top Offensive player in Division One FCS division. Hudgins finished second to Armani Edwards of Appalachian State who wins the award for the second year in a row.
Hudgins finishes his career holding 10 NCAA records,(Four of those NCAA records were held by Jerry Rice) six Southern Conference records and three Elon records.
Hudgins places in the top fifteen in the voting for the third year in a row as he finished 11th in 2007 and 15th in 08.
Terrell's NCAA Records
1. 4 years in a row with 1,000 yards receiving the only player in any division
ever to do that.
2. 34 games in which he had at least one receiving touchdown
3. 1.2 touchdown catches per game for career tied.
4. 28 career 100 yard receiving games most ever in any division.
5. 116.7 yards per game most ever in FCS
6. 5,520 yards career receiving most ever in NCAA history
7. 8.8 career receptions per game FCS record
8. 123 catches this season most ever in one year in FCS
9. 395 career catches most ever in NCAA History.
10 Shared with teammate Michael Mayer in 2007. 207 catches by teammates in a
season
Southern Conference Records
1. ten games in a season with at least 100 in a game
2. Five games in a row with at least 100 yards receiving (once in 2006,Twice in
2009)
3. 52 career receiving touchdowns
4. 1,633 yards in on season (2009)
5. 3 career 200 yards games (Tied)
6. 2,538 combines yards with teammate Michael Mayer in 2007
ELON Records
1. 16 reception in one game (twice in 2007) (once 2009)
2. four touchdowns receptions in a game (2007)
3. 18 touchdown reception in a season (2007)
Finishing second in the Walter Camp award is the highest a Rocky Mount High Athlete has obtained since Phil Ford and Buck Williams were named Rookie of the year in the NBA in 1979 and 1982.
Gryphon Basketball Basketball was postponed Friday night against Rose.
Fall was a great athletic season for Rocky Mount sports. The Wachovia Cup fall standing are out and the Gryphons lead the Big East with 57 points followed by Fike at 48.5 and Hunt at 48 points.
Hudgins finishes his career holding 10 NCAA records,(Four of those NCAA records were held by Jerry Rice) six Southern Conference records and three Elon records.
Hudgins places in the top fifteen in the voting for the third year in a row as he finished 11th in 2007 and 15th in 08.
Terrell's NCAA Records
1. 4 years in a row with 1,000 yards receiving the only player in any division
ever to do that.
2. 34 games in which he had at least one receiving touchdown
3. 1.2 touchdown catches per game for career tied.
4. 28 career 100 yard receiving games most ever in any division.
5. 116.7 yards per game most ever in FCS
6. 5,520 yards career receiving most ever in NCAA history
7. 8.8 career receptions per game FCS record
8. 123 catches this season most ever in one year in FCS
9. 395 career catches most ever in NCAA History.
10 Shared with teammate Michael Mayer in 2007. 207 catches by teammates in a
season
Southern Conference Records
1. ten games in a season with at least 100 in a game
2. Five games in a row with at least 100 yards receiving (once in 2006,Twice in
2009)
3. 52 career receiving touchdowns
4. 1,633 yards in on season (2009)
5. 3 career 200 yards games (Tied)
6. 2,538 combines yards with teammate Michael Mayer in 2007
ELON Records
1. 16 reception in one game (twice in 2007) (once 2009)
2. four touchdowns receptions in a game (2007)
3. 18 touchdown reception in a season (2007)
Finishing second in the Walter Camp award is the highest a Rocky Mount High Athlete has obtained since Phil Ford and Buck Williams were named Rookie of the year in the NBA in 1979 and 1982.
Gryphon Basketball Basketball was postponed Friday night against Rose.
Fall was a great athletic season for Rocky Mount sports. The Wachovia Cup fall standing are out and the Gryphons lead the Big East with 57 points followed by Fike at 48.5 and Hunt at 48 points.
Winning The Lottery Hardly Ever Pays
Athletes are just like people who win the lottery. Most of the time average Joe's who when they hit the big money have no idea how to handle it.
That ten million dollar life style is on the other side of town compared to the 25,000 a year life of most who win the lottery.
Yesterday another life was lost to the fast lane. Chris Henry of the Cincinnati Bengals looks like now may have jumped from the bed of a pickup truck in which his girl friend was driving. I wonder if we will ever hear the truth on this one.
N C State made an 11 point comeback last night against basketball power Elon and won their eighth game of the season with only one loss. State travels to Wake Sunday night to open ACC play on Sunday night ACC basketball.
Was off by one day, the Gryphons play basketball in Greenville tonight against Rose weather permitting.
The Indy Colts continue to stay undefeated as they beat the Jaguars in Jacksonville. The score was 35-31 as Peyton Manning the better of the two Manning brothers threw for four touchdowns. I just don't see the Colts in the Super Bowl just getting by the way they do.
There is one thought from this historic twenty three game regular season win streak that the Colts are on. As long as Manning is on the field they have a chance at winning.
Some loose business to take care of. I was on a sports panel for WHIG-TV along with my sidekick Wes Bradshaw and as part of the WHIG-TV game of the week they were telling everyone that they were going to give a coach of the year award to the top coach. The winner Raymond Cobb of Southwest Edgecombe. SouthWest got $1,000 donated to the school athletic fund. Raymond got four votes, Danny Ward of North Edgecombe received one and Tarboro's Jeff Craddock got one vote from me.
I found this out last night when I attended the WHIG-TV Christmas party. Everyone who you see on Whig-TV anytime during a week was there. Herb and Sandra really put on a nice show last night.
That ten million dollar life style is on the other side of town compared to the 25,000 a year life of most who win the lottery.
Yesterday another life was lost to the fast lane. Chris Henry of the Cincinnati Bengals looks like now may have jumped from the bed of a pickup truck in which his girl friend was driving. I wonder if we will ever hear the truth on this one.
N C State made an 11 point comeback last night against basketball power Elon and won their eighth game of the season with only one loss. State travels to Wake Sunday night to open ACC play on Sunday night ACC basketball.
Was off by one day, the Gryphons play basketball in Greenville tonight against Rose weather permitting.
The Indy Colts continue to stay undefeated as they beat the Jaguars in Jacksonville. The score was 35-31 as Peyton Manning the better of the two Manning brothers threw for four touchdowns. I just don't see the Colts in the Super Bowl just getting by the way they do.
There is one thought from this historic twenty three game regular season win streak that the Colts are on. As long as Manning is on the field they have a chance at winning.
Some loose business to take care of. I was on a sports panel for WHIG-TV along with my sidekick Wes Bradshaw and as part of the WHIG-TV game of the week they were telling everyone that they were going to give a coach of the year award to the top coach. The winner Raymond Cobb of Southwest Edgecombe. SouthWest got $1,000 donated to the school athletic fund. Raymond got four votes, Danny Ward of North Edgecombe received one and Tarboro's Jeff Craddock got one vote from me.
I found this out last night when I attended the WHIG-TV Christmas party. Everyone who you see on Whig-TV anytime during a week was there. Herb and Sandra really put on a nice show last night.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Say Good Bye To Old Dowdy-Ficklin
Yesterday cranes started taking down the score board at the ECU Football stadium. Next year ECU fans will return to a horseshoed stadium with 7,000 more seats. This will up the capacity to more than 50,000.
So far for the Liberty Bowl game against Arkansas in Memphis the Pirates have sold 4,500 tickets. When the football stadium is fully renovated the Pirates will seat 60,000 putting them on par with Tar Heels and Wolfpack.
I'm just throwing this out there for thought. Just maybe the Pirates one day might replace Boston college in the ACC. Would make sense to me. BC joined the ACC because they felt jilted in the bowl selections. Where are they going again this year? California another low pay heavy on expenses bowl game for the Eagles.
I don't think the ACC has turned out for BC like it was intended.
Look at their travel cost compared to everyone else in the league. They are stuck up in the Northeast at least 300 miles from their closes conference foe Maryland. Maryland have six conference foes within 300 miles. Virginia Tech and even Miami have natural rivals in the ACC but not BC.
Back in the old days when ECU was in the Southern conference with William and Mary, Richmond,Marshall,Appalachian State, Western Carolina and Furman that was a good league.
Look at what the others have done when Pat Dye convinced ECU that division one was the only way. App State has three national titles, I think Marshall has had at least two and Richmond has one. If ECU had of stayed in that league they may very well already have a 75,000 seat stadium and every conference would have been begging them in the 1990's to join their conference.
When all the expansion is finished in Greenville there will be no reason that ECU cannot be part of a home and home series with anybody.
I know this is not about sports but looking at the community as a whole was there ever a better decision for Eastern North Carolina than to put a medical school at ECU?
Today all of the small community hospitals all over Eastern North Carolina are tied in to the medical school. I know they have a cancer center named after him But Leo Jenkins ought to have a monument some where in Greenville.
I was on the UNC systems web site recently and ECU is third as far as largest institution in the UNC system just a few hundred behind Carolina and a couple of thousand behind State.
The 1960's ECU was still East carolina teachers College. They have come a long way since then.
So far for the Liberty Bowl game against Arkansas in Memphis the Pirates have sold 4,500 tickets. When the football stadium is fully renovated the Pirates will seat 60,000 putting them on par with Tar Heels and Wolfpack.
I'm just throwing this out there for thought. Just maybe the Pirates one day might replace Boston college in the ACC. Would make sense to me. BC joined the ACC because they felt jilted in the bowl selections. Where are they going again this year? California another low pay heavy on expenses bowl game for the Eagles.
I don't think the ACC has turned out for BC like it was intended.
Look at their travel cost compared to everyone else in the league. They are stuck up in the Northeast at least 300 miles from their closes conference foe Maryland. Maryland have six conference foes within 300 miles. Virginia Tech and even Miami have natural rivals in the ACC but not BC.
Back in the old days when ECU was in the Southern conference with William and Mary, Richmond,Marshall,Appalachian State, Western Carolina and Furman that was a good league.
Look at what the others have done when Pat Dye convinced ECU that division one was the only way. App State has three national titles, I think Marshall has had at least two and Richmond has one. If ECU had of stayed in that league they may very well already have a 75,000 seat stadium and every conference would have been begging them in the 1990's to join their conference.
When all the expansion is finished in Greenville there will be no reason that ECU cannot be part of a home and home series with anybody.
I know this is not about sports but looking at the community as a whole was there ever a better decision for Eastern North Carolina than to put a medical school at ECU?
Today all of the small community hospitals all over Eastern North Carolina are tied in to the medical school. I know they have a cancer center named after him But Leo Jenkins ought to have a monument some where in Greenville.
I was on the UNC systems web site recently and ECU is third as far as largest institution in the UNC system just a few hundred behind Carolina and a couple of thousand behind State.
The 1960's ECU was still East carolina teachers College. They have come a long way since then.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Gryphons At Rose Tonight
You may be wondering why over the last week or so I have not said much about basketball and their progress this year. There are a couple of reasons.
My main source of schedule information is View My Schedule, for the past three weeks or so I have not be able to access Rocky Mount on the site. Yesterday it pops up but last year my number one source was daughter Morgan. She was a manager for Bernie Capps and help tape players before games.
During the fall she was one of the managers for Volleyball and many of you may not know over the past three years Morgan has had a problem with bruising. bruises pop up any and everywhere including her face. As of yesterday we have now been to 15 doctors from Nash,Pitt,Duke and UNC hospitals. I can tell what it is not but we don't know yet what is the culprit. We decided that she needed to take the winter off and help be the manager of softball in the spring.
Morgan not there my source of away games scores is not in place this year. So far this year the boys are off to a 4-1 start. They lost last week at Beddingfield but beat Rose at home. They are still trying to get everyone familiar with each other with all the transfers playing and I think by mid January this is going to be a very good team.
The girls are 3-2 with losses to Beddingfield and 4-A Wake-Forest Rolesville. One of their victories was over Rose's girl 64-16. Regardless of what the girls do this year they had a preseason injury to the possible starting point guard and will not play at what could have been full strength any this year. You can bet that Pam Gainey's full court pressure will pay off as the season goes on.
Tonight the Gryphons travel to Rose. Hertford County will match up with the Gryphons on Monday.
Has the world fell in on top of Tiger Woods or what? 16 women have come forward with stories to sell concerning their escapades with Tiger. Now word a doctor in which Tiger uses is a human growth Hormone doctor.
Looks like Randy Moss is close to wearing out his welcome in New England. Minnesota, Oakland and now New England Moss starts out like a house on fire and as time goes on he seems to get bored. That's too bad, Randy Moss may be the most dominating player of this decade or could have been.
What is up with old Roy Williams. Roy saw to it a non Carolina fan was tossed out of the last home game because he said "miss it Deion". The guy was on the 23rd row. Sounds to me like Roy wasn't concentrating too much on the game himself to hear someone on the 23rd row yell at one of his players.
Williams explaination was he was protecting the parents of his players not having to listen to negative talk about their children. If old Roy is all that concerned about what they hear maybe the next time he breaks out in a barrage of cursing he will remove himself from the game.
Can't wait to see what the Duke students may have for him when Carolina plays in Durham.
My main source of schedule information is View My Schedule, for the past three weeks or so I have not be able to access Rocky Mount on the site. Yesterday it pops up but last year my number one source was daughter Morgan. She was a manager for Bernie Capps and help tape players before games.
During the fall she was one of the managers for Volleyball and many of you may not know over the past three years Morgan has had a problem with bruising. bruises pop up any and everywhere including her face. As of yesterday we have now been to 15 doctors from Nash,Pitt,Duke and UNC hospitals. I can tell what it is not but we don't know yet what is the culprit. We decided that she needed to take the winter off and help be the manager of softball in the spring.
Morgan not there my source of away games scores is not in place this year. So far this year the boys are off to a 4-1 start. They lost last week at Beddingfield but beat Rose at home. They are still trying to get everyone familiar with each other with all the transfers playing and I think by mid January this is going to be a very good team.
The girls are 3-2 with losses to Beddingfield and 4-A Wake-Forest Rolesville. One of their victories was over Rose's girl 64-16. Regardless of what the girls do this year they had a preseason injury to the possible starting point guard and will not play at what could have been full strength any this year. You can bet that Pam Gainey's full court pressure will pay off as the season goes on.
Tonight the Gryphons travel to Rose. Hertford County will match up with the Gryphons on Monday.
Has the world fell in on top of Tiger Woods or what? 16 women have come forward with stories to sell concerning their escapades with Tiger. Now word a doctor in which Tiger uses is a human growth Hormone doctor.
Looks like Randy Moss is close to wearing out his welcome in New England. Minnesota, Oakland and now New England Moss starts out like a house on fire and as time goes on he seems to get bored. That's too bad, Randy Moss may be the most dominating player of this decade or could have been.
What is up with old Roy Williams. Roy saw to it a non Carolina fan was tossed out of the last home game because he said "miss it Deion". The guy was on the 23rd row. Sounds to me like Roy wasn't concentrating too much on the game himself to hear someone on the 23rd row yell at one of his players.
Williams explaination was he was protecting the parents of his players not having to listen to negative talk about their children. If old Roy is all that concerned about what they hear maybe the next time he breaks out in a barrage of cursing he will remove himself from the game.
Can't wait to see what the Duke students may have for him when Carolina plays in Durham.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Cowboy Problems Start At Very Top
The Dallas Cowboys are going through once again this year with their losing record in December. They have not won a playoff game since 1997. What has happened to America's team?
I think the answer is right in front of your eyes, the owner Jerry Jones.
Let's look back to when Jones bought the Cowboys. The very first year he cleaned house. He got rid of one of the greatest coaches in NFL history in Tom Landry. His coach Jimmy Johnson cleaned house on the players. It didn't take long to win two Super Bowls. Jimmy Johnson quit because he didn't like Jerry Jones meddling in player decisions. Barry Switzer won a Super Bowl basically off the same players that Johnson had.
All the early success that the Cowboys had Jerry Jones is thinking boy I am the greatest owner. I am such a good owner I can decide on the players we will keep.
What owner has a press conference after every game? What owner comes down to the field in the fourth quarter every game that they look like they are going to win? Jerry Jones loves to be in front of the camera.
Jones thinks that the show is more important than the substance. This past Sunday he passed out 90,000 3-D glasses in the third quarter so the fans could watch the game in 3-D on the big screen TV. Jerry Jones is the P T Barnum of the NFL. They had to take the glasses up before the end of the quarter because people were getting sick watching the screen in 3-D.
Jones is a showman not a football decision maker. He won three Super Bowls rather early in his tenure and in doing so Jones lost the idea that football people made sound decisions. Since the mid 90's Jones has had puppets in the football decision jobs. He makes the decisions. Jerry Jones is a showman not a football decision maker.
Jones hasn't won anything with out the Jimmy Johnson influence.
Jerry Jones is the next Al Davis in waiting. When he is close to 90 he will be there in front of the cameras wondering why he is 4-12. Jerry Jones don't know diddlly about football, but he thinks he does. He's got enough money that we will have to watch the slow death of a great team until he dies.
I think the answer is right in front of your eyes, the owner Jerry Jones.
Let's look back to when Jones bought the Cowboys. The very first year he cleaned house. He got rid of one of the greatest coaches in NFL history in Tom Landry. His coach Jimmy Johnson cleaned house on the players. It didn't take long to win two Super Bowls. Jimmy Johnson quit because he didn't like Jerry Jones meddling in player decisions. Barry Switzer won a Super Bowl basically off the same players that Johnson had.
All the early success that the Cowboys had Jerry Jones is thinking boy I am the greatest owner. I am such a good owner I can decide on the players we will keep.
What owner has a press conference after every game? What owner comes down to the field in the fourth quarter every game that they look like they are going to win? Jerry Jones loves to be in front of the camera.
Jones thinks that the show is more important than the substance. This past Sunday he passed out 90,000 3-D glasses in the third quarter so the fans could watch the game in 3-D on the big screen TV. Jerry Jones is the P T Barnum of the NFL. They had to take the glasses up before the end of the quarter because people were getting sick watching the screen in 3-D.
Jones is a showman not a football decision maker. He won three Super Bowls rather early in his tenure and in doing so Jones lost the idea that football people made sound decisions. Since the mid 90's Jones has had puppets in the football decision jobs. He makes the decisions. Jerry Jones is a showman not a football decision maker.
Jones hasn't won anything with out the Jimmy Johnson influence.
Jerry Jones is the next Al Davis in waiting. When he is close to 90 he will be there in front of the cameras wondering why he is 4-12. Jerry Jones don't know diddlly about football, but he thinks he does. He's got enough money that we will have to watch the slow death of a great team until he dies.
Monday, December 14, 2009
13-0
Never in the history of the NFL has two teams gone and won their first 13 games of any season. There was a time when the regular season was just 12 games.
History being what it is I think most fans would like to see New Orleans go undefeated. Their history has been they were the Ain'ts more than the Saints. Here lately their defense has started to show cracks.
Indianapolis is the team of the decade with the number of wins. They have one title during this ten year span. If there has been a down fall for the Colts it seems when they get to the point they are at now they can't figure whether to rest or go all out. I think sometimes winning your playoff spot too early hurts more than having to play every week like a playoff game.
The Carolina Panthers lost for the 8th time this season which guarantees that they have never had back to back winning seasons. I think they have their quarterback for the future in Matt Moore. Their dilemma is they just gave 17 a big contract extention during the off season.
Dallas played right into the news media's hands yesterday. Dallas had every chance to win and stop all this 0 for December funk they are in. All the glitz in Dallas they are too soft.
San Diego has now beaten the Giants, Eagles and Cowboys. The Giants and Cowboys on the road. If I was Indianapolis I would be shaking in my boots because San Diego has beaten the Colts the last two playoff trips they have made to Indy.
If the Super Bowl was today I'm picking the Vikings and Chargers. I think the Vikes have the best defense in the NFC. The Chargers are finally playing like their hype over the past three or four years. They were probably the best in 07 but they were beat up when they got to New England for the AFC Championship game. This year they have been able to put a new body in the injures place and have kept right on ticking.
History being what it is I think most fans would like to see New Orleans go undefeated. Their history has been they were the Ain'ts more than the Saints. Here lately their defense has started to show cracks.
Indianapolis is the team of the decade with the number of wins. They have one title during this ten year span. If there has been a down fall for the Colts it seems when they get to the point they are at now they can't figure whether to rest or go all out. I think sometimes winning your playoff spot too early hurts more than having to play every week like a playoff game.
The Carolina Panthers lost for the 8th time this season which guarantees that they have never had back to back winning seasons. I think they have their quarterback for the future in Matt Moore. Their dilemma is they just gave 17 a big contract extention during the off season.
Dallas played right into the news media's hands yesterday. Dallas had every chance to win and stop all this 0 for December funk they are in. All the glitz in Dallas they are too soft.
San Diego has now beaten the Giants, Eagles and Cowboys. The Giants and Cowboys on the road. If I was Indianapolis I would be shaking in my boots because San Diego has beaten the Colts the last two playoff trips they have made to Indy.
If the Super Bowl was today I'm picking the Vikings and Chargers. I think the Vikes have the best defense in the NFC. The Chargers are finally playing like their hype over the past three or four years. They were probably the best in 07 but they were beat up when they got to New England for the AFC Championship game. This year they have been able to put a new body in the injures place and have kept right on ticking.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
In The Books
The State Championships in football are finished. Rocky Mount and Southern Nash both lost out to South Johnson who for a while yesterday looked like they were going to win. They lead 28-7 in the second quarter until Shelby got their game going and won 42-28.
Southwest Edgecombe can sit around and think of what could have been as Reidsville won their third straight 2-AA title 28-6 over Newton-Conover who was the team that beat Tarboro last year. The Cougars almost pulled off the upset of Reidsville two weeks ago.
North Edgecombe can say it took the State Champion to beat us. Wallace Rose Hill beat (Mayberry)Mount Airy 38-37.
Tonight on WHIG-TV I will host the 2-A State champion Tarboro Vikings. it gets under way at 8.00pm.
This is really hard to believe that the Heisman trophy was won by Alabama for the first time last night.
I hope you had a chance to watch the Appalachian State -Montana game last night. Playing in the snow in Missoula Montana. There will not be a bowl game this year as good as that game. App St was stopped on the four yard line on the last play of the game.
How is your memory? Who is the most famous basketball player ever from Missoula Montana that played in the ACC? Mike Lewis he played for Duke in the late 60's when Vic Bubus had Duke basketball on the map. He played with he likes of Bob Verga, Steve Vasendak and the most famous 6th man in ACC history. Fred Lind, Lind hardly ever played but he had two of the greatest backup efforts in the ACC tournament history. Seems when ever C D Chesley which use to be the ACC Basketball network lights went on Lind started playing out of his mind.
Mike Lewis was only six feet seven inches tall, if my memory serves me correctly he lead the ACC in rebounding two of his three varsity years. I know you are asking how do I remember that he was from Missoula? Back then as a teenager they would always introduce the line ups and when ever they would say Mike Lewis from Missoula Montana I would think. Where in the world is Missoula Montana?
Southwest Edgecombe can sit around and think of what could have been as Reidsville won their third straight 2-AA title 28-6 over Newton-Conover who was the team that beat Tarboro last year. The Cougars almost pulled off the upset of Reidsville two weeks ago.
North Edgecombe can say it took the State Champion to beat us. Wallace Rose Hill beat (Mayberry)Mount Airy 38-37.
Tonight on WHIG-TV I will host the 2-A State champion Tarboro Vikings. it gets under way at 8.00pm.
This is really hard to believe that the Heisman trophy was won by Alabama for the first time last night.
I hope you had a chance to watch the Appalachian State -Montana game last night. Playing in the snow in Missoula Montana. There will not be a bowl game this year as good as that game. App St was stopped on the four yard line on the last play of the game.
How is your memory? Who is the most famous basketball player ever from Missoula Montana that played in the ACC? Mike Lewis he played for Duke in the late 60's when Vic Bubus had Duke basketball on the map. He played with he likes of Bob Verga, Steve Vasendak and the most famous 6th man in ACC history. Fred Lind, Lind hardly ever played but he had two of the greatest backup efforts in the ACC tournament history. Seems when ever C D Chesley which use to be the ACC Basketball network lights went on Lind started playing out of his mind.
Mike Lewis was only six feet seven inches tall, if my memory serves me correctly he lead the ACC in rebounding two of his three varsity years. I know you are asking how do I remember that he was from Missoula? Back then as a teenager they would always introduce the line ups and when ever they would say Mike Lewis from Missoula Montana I would think. Where in the world is Missoula Montana?
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Cloud Nine
If you happen to be over in Tarboro today that Cloud over the community is Cloud Nine as they bask in the glory of the State 2-A football title.
The offense fumbled on their first possession and the defense held Mountain Hertitage to a field goal other than that the defense sparkled for the Vikings.
Join me on the "Stretchlon Sports Show" Sunday night on Whig-TV as we tried to horn in on the glory. Coach Jeff Craddock and some of the Vikings will be live at 8.00pm.
Tiger Woods says he is going to lay out of golf for a while and try to get his marriage and life back together since Thanksgivings Thursday night when his world crumbled before his eyes. I suspect he has to let that divot in his skull heal before he ventures back into the public.
Woods who has been on the verge of passing Jack Nickalaus as the greatest golfer of all time is now missing a lot of his prime golfing life. It started with a knee injury and now a head injury inflicted by an irate wife.
Most golfers prime is between 27-35. Once they hit 35 their children get to the age when it is more fun being home watching them grow up than it is being out on the tour all the time.
Wednesday night at Ridgecroft school in Ahoskie after a JV basketball game as the teams were shaking hands a scuffle broke out and the Halifax Academy coach while trying to seperate the players somehow landed on top of a Ridgecroft player. This brought the father of the player on the floor and others players family's member into a scuffle.
The father was charged with two counts of assault and battery and he countered by filing asault charges against the Halifax Academy coach.
The girls and boys varsity games were cancelled to cool things off.
Sometimes I think the children should sit in the stands and watch their parents play.
A side note. During my Junior year in high school during the summer I spent working with my father who was a electrician for White and Woodley in Ahoskie. We spent about three weeks wiring Ridgecroft school when it was built in 1969. I think I pulled every foot of wire in the place. Luckily the school has never burned because of an electrical problem so we must have done a pretty good job.
The offense fumbled on their first possession and the defense held Mountain Hertitage to a field goal other than that the defense sparkled for the Vikings.
Join me on the "Stretchlon Sports Show" Sunday night on Whig-TV as we tried to horn in on the glory. Coach Jeff Craddock and some of the Vikings will be live at 8.00pm.
Tiger Woods says he is going to lay out of golf for a while and try to get his marriage and life back together since Thanksgivings Thursday night when his world crumbled before his eyes. I suspect he has to let that divot in his skull heal before he ventures back into the public.
Woods who has been on the verge of passing Jack Nickalaus as the greatest golfer of all time is now missing a lot of his prime golfing life. It started with a knee injury and now a head injury inflicted by an irate wife.
Most golfers prime is between 27-35. Once they hit 35 their children get to the age when it is more fun being home watching them grow up than it is being out on the tour all the time.
Wednesday night at Ridgecroft school in Ahoskie after a JV basketball game as the teams were shaking hands a scuffle broke out and the Halifax Academy coach while trying to seperate the players somehow landed on top of a Ridgecroft player. This brought the father of the player on the floor and others players family's member into a scuffle.
The father was charged with two counts of assault and battery and he countered by filing asault charges against the Halifax Academy coach.
The girls and boys varsity games were cancelled to cool things off.
Sometimes I think the children should sit in the stands and watch their parents play.
A side note. During my Junior year in high school during the summer I spent working with my father who was a electrician for White and Woodley in Ahoskie. We spent about three weeks wiring Ridgecroft school when it was built in 1969. I think I pulled every foot of wire in the place. Luckily the school has never burned because of an electrical problem so we must have done a pretty good job.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Tarboro Brings Home The Bacon
Way back when SouthWest Edgecombe and Tarboro played each other Raymond Cobb made the prediction to his team that they had beaten the team that was going to win the 2-A state championship. Mr Cobb you were correct Sir as tonight Tarboro in front of close to 10,000 Tarboro backers beats Mountain Hertitage 28-3.
I was told this morning by a big backer of Viking football that as of the end of school Thursday Tarboro had sold 8,500 tickets. That tells me that the entire county backed the Vikings and were there to see it tonight.
Trailing 3-0 Tarboro scored twice in the second quarter to lead 14-3 at the half. The added an offensive touchdown and the defense got in the act in the second half returning a interception for a score.
How appropriate that the defense failed to give up a touchdown as the improved defense this year is the difference between winning this year and giving up 50 in the title game last year against Newton-Conover.
Join us Sunday night at 8.00pm as Jeff Craddock and some of the Vikings will appear on the "Stretchlon Sports Show" live at 8.00pm on WHIG-TV.
This is the first state title for Tarboro since Jim Brett's Tarboro Viking won it all in 1984. It is hard to believe that has been 25 years.
Tonight I was at Faith Christian covering Faith and Falls Road. The girls game was a disaster for Falls Road but the boys game went to the wire before Faith won by two.
There are times when you are at a place that you wind up saying to yourself that you are glad you went to a place. Tonight for me was one of those nights. Faith Christian had their Toys for Tots night tonight and presented the Marine Corp a load of presents.
One of the players for Faith Matt Cash read about a two minute history of how the Toys for Tots got started way back around World War II. It took him a couple of minutes to read it and when he got through Jimmy Hendricks the athletic director at Faith took the mircophone and told the crowd for those that didn't know it that Matt's father had died in Iraq while serving in the Marine reserves in 2004.
Sometimes while covering ball games they are worth being there even before the ball game. Tonight was one of those special moments that I was glad I was there.
I was told this morning by a big backer of Viking football that as of the end of school Thursday Tarboro had sold 8,500 tickets. That tells me that the entire county backed the Vikings and were there to see it tonight.
Trailing 3-0 Tarboro scored twice in the second quarter to lead 14-3 at the half. The added an offensive touchdown and the defense got in the act in the second half returning a interception for a score.
How appropriate that the defense failed to give up a touchdown as the improved defense this year is the difference between winning this year and giving up 50 in the title game last year against Newton-Conover.
Join us Sunday night at 8.00pm as Jeff Craddock and some of the Vikings will appear on the "Stretchlon Sports Show" live at 8.00pm on WHIG-TV.
This is the first state title for Tarboro since Jim Brett's Tarboro Viking won it all in 1984. It is hard to believe that has been 25 years.
Tonight I was at Faith Christian covering Faith and Falls Road. The girls game was a disaster for Falls Road but the boys game went to the wire before Faith won by two.
There are times when you are at a place that you wind up saying to yourself that you are glad you went to a place. Tonight for me was one of those nights. Faith Christian had their Toys for Tots night tonight and presented the Marine Corp a load of presents.
One of the players for Faith Matt Cash read about a two minute history of how the Toys for Tots got started way back around World War II. It took him a couple of minutes to read it and when he got through Jimmy Hendricks the athletic director at Faith took the mircophone and told the crowd for those that didn't know it that Matt's father had died in Iraq while serving in the Marine reserves in 2004.
Sometimes while covering ball games they are worth being there even before the ball game. Tonight was one of those special moments that I was glad I was there.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The ARTS Are Well In Rocky Mount
Tonight at the Dunn Center on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan College the Tar River Jazz Band held their Christmas Concert.
Yes unemployment runs in double digits in the Twin Counties. We are on a list of one of the 10 worst places to live. The five hundred or so people at the Dunn Center were treated to a wonderful night of Jazzy Christmas tunes topped off by the Tar River Children's Chorus.
Raleigh has the NC Symphony but most of those funds come from the state for the operations. This little old town of almost 60,000 people has their very own Orchestral Society pretty much self supported. Tonight the Jazz Band and Children's Chorus performed as part of the Concert series.
I was thinking while the band was performing what a wonderful thing music is. They were conducted tonight by John Sykes former band director at Rocky Mount Senior High. Mr Sykes retire twenty years ago as the band director but his love for music lives . I watch in amazement in the joy you see in the people's eyes as they perform.
Being the father of one of the Choristers of course I am going to say the high light of the evening was the children singing.
This is our seventh year with the TRCC. Those seven years I have come to realize that Angels do walk on earth. Most coaches have whistles, but this women of steel has hand clapping to get attention. When she claps her hands she has their attention.
People who have extra ordinary talents sometimes can't teach others. Michael Jordan the greatest basketball player of all time doesn't have the patience to teach the average.
If you have ever heard her sing you would know why she won her talent on her night at the Miss America Pageant a few years ago. The woman can flat out sing. She can also flat out teach others to sing.
Our seven years we have been to Charlotte, Winston Salem, Williamsburg twice, Philadelphia and New York spreading music to others and in most cases bringing home top honors whenever they have been in competitions.
I enjoy watching her lead the Chorus as much as listening to their sounds. You can see God flow through her and every now and then I swear I see wings on her shoulders.
Any time you go on a trip things may not go according to plan. An eighteen hour day can make tempers flare. There is always one shining light to let us know things aren't that bad. If you don't know who I am speaking of then you have missed out on knowing an Angel.
I am speaking of Patsy Gilliland. She has a voice that can crack glasses, a smile that radiates the heavens, and a heart of one of the most Christian people I know.
The Twin Counties is very lucky to have Patsy leading our children. There is no doubt that my families life is much better every day by having Patsy be a part of it.
Yes unemployment runs in double digits in the Twin Counties. We are on a list of one of the 10 worst places to live. The five hundred or so people at the Dunn Center were treated to a wonderful night of Jazzy Christmas tunes topped off by the Tar River Children's Chorus.
Raleigh has the NC Symphony but most of those funds come from the state for the operations. This little old town of almost 60,000 people has their very own Orchestral Society pretty much self supported. Tonight the Jazz Band and Children's Chorus performed as part of the Concert series.
I was thinking while the band was performing what a wonderful thing music is. They were conducted tonight by John Sykes former band director at Rocky Mount Senior High. Mr Sykes retire twenty years ago as the band director but his love for music lives . I watch in amazement in the joy you see in the people's eyes as they perform.
Being the father of one of the Choristers of course I am going to say the high light of the evening was the children singing.
This is our seventh year with the TRCC. Those seven years I have come to realize that Angels do walk on earth. Most coaches have whistles, but this women of steel has hand clapping to get attention. When she claps her hands she has their attention.
People who have extra ordinary talents sometimes can't teach others. Michael Jordan the greatest basketball player of all time doesn't have the patience to teach the average.
If you have ever heard her sing you would know why she won her talent on her night at the Miss America Pageant a few years ago. The woman can flat out sing. She can also flat out teach others to sing.
Our seven years we have been to Charlotte, Winston Salem, Williamsburg twice, Philadelphia and New York spreading music to others and in most cases bringing home top honors whenever they have been in competitions.
I enjoy watching her lead the Chorus as much as listening to their sounds. You can see God flow through her and every now and then I swear I see wings on her shoulders.
Any time you go on a trip things may not go according to plan. An eighteen hour day can make tempers flare. There is always one shining light to let us know things aren't that bad. If you don't know who I am speaking of then you have missed out on knowing an Angel.
I am speaking of Patsy Gilliland. She has a voice that can crack glasses, a smile that radiates the heavens, and a heart of one of the most Christian people I know.
The Twin Counties is very lucky to have Patsy leading our children. There is no doubt that my families life is much better every day by having Patsy be a part of it.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
ALL State
Andrew Morales is the only Gryphon soccer player to make the all state team. Good going Andrew
Weather permitting there will be a student-Faculty softball game at the softball field at 3.00pm Friday. I was by the school today to watch the Drama class give their Christmas performance and the practice football field is under water in some areas. I can bet the softball field is about the same. So this game Friday is pending a playable field.
Florida State's new football coach is cleaning the defensive house including former N C State coach Chuck Amato. Amato still owns a house in McGregor Downs in Cary and it would not shock me if he comes back to Cary.
Jeff Craddock of Tarboro High school returned my call on Tuesday and he will again this year appear on the "Stretchlon Sports Show Sunday following their state championship football game Friday night against Mountain Hertitage of Burnsville. I would like to thank Jeff for saying he would appear before the game because like last year it is not easy telling everyone about your great season if they lose Friday.
We talked about what we wanted to do I told Jeff that I wanted him to bring a few players and coaches like last year but I did want to change the program just a little. I wanted him to bring the State championship trophy with him this year. He is also going to bring the game film and if they win Friday we may show all of it. If you have never seen game film in a coaches office before. The only thing they record is once the team gets to the line of scrimmage and cut the tape off just after the tackle. We can watch the hold game in about 40 minutes.
Friday night instead of being in Chapel hill I will be at Faith Christian doing Falls Road boys and girls basketball for Stretchlon and WHIG-TV.
I have tried to stay away from commenting on the Tiger Woods fiasco. In life we all sin and he doesn't owe me any explanation. I do feel that the citizens of that area have the right to know what his blood alcohol content was and if they didn't give him a Breathalyzer test why not. If it had been me or you they surely would have given us one. I know he was in a private community but he ran over a public fire Hydrant.
Weather permitting there will be a student-Faculty softball game at the softball field at 3.00pm Friday. I was by the school today to watch the Drama class give their Christmas performance and the practice football field is under water in some areas. I can bet the softball field is about the same. So this game Friday is pending a playable field.
Florida State's new football coach is cleaning the defensive house including former N C State coach Chuck Amato. Amato still owns a house in McGregor Downs in Cary and it would not shock me if he comes back to Cary.
Jeff Craddock of Tarboro High school returned my call on Tuesday and he will again this year appear on the "Stretchlon Sports Show Sunday following their state championship football game Friday night against Mountain Hertitage of Burnsville. I would like to thank Jeff for saying he would appear before the game because like last year it is not easy telling everyone about your great season if they lose Friday.
We talked about what we wanted to do I told Jeff that I wanted him to bring a few players and coaches like last year but I did want to change the program just a little. I wanted him to bring the State championship trophy with him this year. He is also going to bring the game film and if they win Friday we may show all of it. If you have never seen game film in a coaches office before. The only thing they record is once the team gets to the line of scrimmage and cut the tape off just after the tackle. We can watch the hold game in about 40 minutes.
Friday night instead of being in Chapel hill I will be at Faith Christian doing Falls Road boys and girls basketball for Stretchlon and WHIG-TV.
I have tried to stay away from commenting on the Tiger Woods fiasco. In life we all sin and he doesn't owe me any explanation. I do feel that the citizens of that area have the right to know what his blood alcohol content was and if they didn't give him a Breathalyzer test why not. If it had been me or you they surely would have given us one. I know he was in a private community but he ran over a public fire Hydrant.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Making The Right Moves
High school and college when players eligibility is up they move on. There are no decisions made whether they need to put a player on injured reserve, when the player career is over there is no lingering effect as to how much longer a player can play at their level and age.
Pro sports if they find someone better than you, you are out the door looking for work. Two years ago the Green Bay Packers made the decision Brett Favre was on the back side of greatness. Looking at Green bay they made a good decision.
2008 Favre's quarterback rating was 81 while his replacement Aaron Rogers was 93. So far this year Favre has had his greatest year ever and he has a 108 quarterback rating. His replacement Aaron Rogers has a QB rating of 103. Yes Favre is having a great year but Green Bay's decision two years ago was the right one for the Green Bay Packers.
Four years ago San Diego decided to let Drew Brees go and he left for New Orleans. Bree's first four years in San Diego he had a QB rating of 85, His replacement the next four years Philip Rivers has been 95.6 which after last Sunday's games make him the #1 active quarterback in the NFL at quarterback rating second all time only to Steve Young at 96.7..
To give you some perspective of quarterback ratings the average all time rating is 77. Brees since he has been in New Orleans is at 99. His career rating is 91.4. Brett Favre's career QB rating is 86. The point I'm trying to make here is everyone New Orleans, San Diego, and Green Bay have all won at the decisions that were made.
Now the other side of the coin is when players can't make the plays any more. The Carolina Hurricanes are faced with that dilemma. My favorite player from the day the Hurricanes got him from the Philadelphia was Rod Brind'Amour Who can forget his goal in the Stanley Cup when he stole the puck and scored on a vacant net when Brind'Amour caught the goalie behind the net. It won game one in 2006.
17 missed most of the 2008 season with a knee injury and at his age he has never gotten back to being Rod Brind'Amour. He's 39 now and was a healthy scratch for the Hurricanes last night. I think it is time for Brind'Amour to retire. He should be the next number to hang in the rafters at the RBC. The Hurricanes found a place for Ron Francis when he retired, they need to find Roddie a desk at the RBC. He's been to good a Hurricane to let go.
Rod Brind'Amour could help the Hurricane decision by retiring. I would really hate to see him finish this year somewhere else and then retire.
Pro sports if they find someone better than you, you are out the door looking for work. Two years ago the Green Bay Packers made the decision Brett Favre was on the back side of greatness. Looking at Green bay they made a good decision.
2008 Favre's quarterback rating was 81 while his replacement Aaron Rogers was 93. So far this year Favre has had his greatest year ever and he has a 108 quarterback rating. His replacement Aaron Rogers has a QB rating of 103. Yes Favre is having a great year but Green Bay's decision two years ago was the right one for the Green Bay Packers.
Four years ago San Diego decided to let Drew Brees go and he left for New Orleans. Bree's first four years in San Diego he had a QB rating of 85, His replacement the next four years Philip Rivers has been 95.6 which after last Sunday's games make him the #1 active quarterback in the NFL at quarterback rating second all time only to Steve Young at 96.7..
To give you some perspective of quarterback ratings the average all time rating is 77. Brees since he has been in New Orleans is at 99. His career rating is 91.4. Brett Favre's career QB rating is 86. The point I'm trying to make here is everyone New Orleans, San Diego, and Green Bay have all won at the decisions that were made.
Now the other side of the coin is when players can't make the plays any more. The Carolina Hurricanes are faced with that dilemma. My favorite player from the day the Hurricanes got him from the Philadelphia was Rod Brind'Amour Who can forget his goal in the Stanley Cup when he stole the puck and scored on a vacant net when Brind'Amour caught the goalie behind the net. It won game one in 2006.
17 missed most of the 2008 season with a knee injury and at his age he has never gotten back to being Rod Brind'Amour. He's 39 now and was a healthy scratch for the Hurricanes last night. I think it is time for Brind'Amour to retire. He should be the next number to hang in the rafters at the RBC. The Hurricanes found a place for Ron Francis when he retired, they need to find Roddie a desk at the RBC. He's been to good a Hurricane to let go.
Rod Brind'Amour could help the Hurricane decision by retiring. I would really hate to see him finish this year somewhere else and then retire.
Monday, December 7, 2009
No LPGA For Lauren
She needed a 69 today in the final round of the LPGA qualifying school but could only shoot 72. Lauren Doughtie missed the top 30 and the LPGA qualifying by two shots. Her five round totals were 77-73-69-75-72. That 77 on opening day was to much to overcome. Amanda Blumenhurst the former Duke All American won the qualifier.
Tonight I was at Rocky Mount Academy doing play by play for the "Stretchlon Sports Show. RMA won both games to be seen later on WHIG-TV.
Called Jeff Craddock at Tarboro High to set up the Vikings for Sunday night live show this morning knowing he wasn't there. Always on Monday of the State Championship week all the coaches go to Chapel Hill for a press conference. Hope to hear back from Jeff tomorrow and hope we can have them on live Sunday like last year after last years Championship game. Hopefully this time will be a victory.
Mountain Hertitage is 13-2 on the season. They are in a split 2-A-1-A league. In three of their four playoffs games they have scored 50 or more points. The two teams haven't come close to playing a common opponent this year.
E CU fans can take a breath today. One of the possible jobs which Skip Holtz might have gotten was filled today. Virginia went for the Richmond coach who won the FCS National Championship last year. You know as soon as Notre Dame fills that job the dominoes will start falling and jobs will be open every where.
I don't know how many of you fans remember years ago when Tom Landry was the coach at Dallas there was a play I'm going to say this happened in about 1989. Danny White was changing a play at the line of scrimmage and the camera caught Tom Landry shouting "No Danny No". He could tell the play that White was going to run was not a good one and of course they were stopped. It was the beginning of the end for Tom Landry in Dallas.
Do you suppose that the fourth down play by Bill Bellichek against the Colts is the beginning of the end for Bellichek and the Patriots. They haven't play very well since.
You can use Rocky Mount and N C State as examples, but the injury bug has the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team that Pittsburgh puts on the field now week after week is only a shell of the team when they are healthy. 6-6 I think they are done this year.
Finally Tonight It is rumored that Danica Patrick of the Indy racing league will sign Tuesday with Junior Ernhardt and race on Saturday's in Nascar. I have to tell you, If Danica looked like Janet Guthrie there would be no interest from Nascar . Patrick can't drive any better than Janet but her looks keep her in commercials
Tonight I was at Rocky Mount Academy doing play by play for the "Stretchlon Sports Show. RMA won both games to be seen later on WHIG-TV.
Called Jeff Craddock at Tarboro High to set up the Vikings for Sunday night live show this morning knowing he wasn't there. Always on Monday of the State Championship week all the coaches go to Chapel Hill for a press conference. Hope to hear back from Jeff tomorrow and hope we can have them on live Sunday like last year after last years Championship game. Hopefully this time will be a victory.
Mountain Hertitage is 13-2 on the season. They are in a split 2-A-1-A league. In three of their four playoffs games they have scored 50 or more points. The two teams haven't come close to playing a common opponent this year.
E CU fans can take a breath today. One of the possible jobs which Skip Holtz might have gotten was filled today. Virginia went for the Richmond coach who won the FCS National Championship last year. You know as soon as Notre Dame fills that job the dominoes will start falling and jobs will be open every where.
I don't know how many of you fans remember years ago when Tom Landry was the coach at Dallas there was a play I'm going to say this happened in about 1989. Danny White was changing a play at the line of scrimmage and the camera caught Tom Landry shouting "No Danny No". He could tell the play that White was going to run was not a good one and of course they were stopped. It was the beginning of the end for Tom Landry in Dallas.
Do you suppose that the fourth down play by Bill Bellichek against the Colts is the beginning of the end for Bellichek and the Patriots. They haven't play very well since.
You can use Rocky Mount and N C State as examples, but the injury bug has the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team that Pittsburgh puts on the field now week after week is only a shell of the team when they are healthy. 6-6 I think they are done this year.
Finally Tonight It is rumored that Danica Patrick of the Indy racing league will sign Tuesday with Junior Ernhardt and race on Saturday's in Nascar. I have to tell you, If Danica looked like Janet Guthrie there would be no interest from Nascar . Patrick can't drive any better than Janet but her looks keep her in commercials
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saints And Colts Remain Unbeaten
The Saints after playing perfect last Monday night played like a normal team today and with a lot of help from the Redskins remained undefeated. The Colts find themselves 12-0 and both the Saints and Colts are they on a collision to become the first undefeated match up in Super Bowl history? I doubt it. In fact I don't think either one of them will make the Super Bowl.
ECU will play Arkansas in the Liberty Bowl on January 2nd. North Carolina's loss to N C State and the Heels have fallen all the way back to Charlotte. Between N C State and North Carolina they must be the official host team of the Care Care Bowl. I know State has play there twice this decade and Carolina has played now at least three times.
I am shocked at how easy Alabama handled Florida. It is the first time they have been ranked #1 at the end of the regular season since 1973. Now that is hard to believe.
Gryphon Basketball is on the road Tuesday night at Beddingfield.
Tomorrow night I will be at Rocky Mount Academy for the Stretchlon Sports Show as they host Faith Christian. Then Friday I will be at Faith as they host Falls Road.
Cousin Lauren Doughtie made the cut for the fifth round at the LPGA qualifying tournament in Daytona Beach Florida. She shot 69 early this morning in finishing up her third round and 75 this afternoon in the fourth round. She is tied for 50th and needs to get to the top 30 which is four shots behind. She needs a 68 or something in the 60's Monday in the final round delayed to Monday because of two days of rain.
I am really torn over how I feel about Lauren playing on the LPGA right now. If she fails to make the LPGA she will go back to the Futures tour and have to qualify every Monday. I think a full year on the Futures will do her more good than making the LPGA and not making many cuts.
App State upset Richmond Saturday night on the last play of the game to move to round three of the FCS playoffs. Their reward, a trip to Montana Saturday in round three.
ECU will play Arkansas in the Liberty Bowl on January 2nd. North Carolina's loss to N C State and the Heels have fallen all the way back to Charlotte. Between N C State and North Carolina they must be the official host team of the Care Care Bowl. I know State has play there twice this decade and Carolina has played now at least three times.
I am shocked at how easy Alabama handled Florida. It is the first time they have been ranked #1 at the end of the regular season since 1973. Now that is hard to believe.
Gryphon Basketball is on the road Tuesday night at Beddingfield.
Tomorrow night I will be at Rocky Mount Academy for the Stretchlon Sports Show as they host Faith Christian. Then Friday I will be at Faith as they host Falls Road.
Cousin Lauren Doughtie made the cut for the fifth round at the LPGA qualifying tournament in Daytona Beach Florida. She shot 69 early this morning in finishing up her third round and 75 this afternoon in the fourth round. She is tied for 50th and needs to get to the top 30 which is four shots behind. She needs a 68 or something in the 60's Monday in the final round delayed to Monday because of two days of rain.
I am really torn over how I feel about Lauren playing on the LPGA right now. If she fails to make the LPGA she will go back to the Futures tour and have to qualify every Monday. I think a full year on the Futures will do her more good than making the LPGA and not making many cuts.
App State upset Richmond Saturday night on the last play of the game to move to round three of the FCS playoffs. Their reward, a trip to Montana Saturday in round three.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
C-USA Champs Again.
E C U for the first time ever played a championship game on the home turf and won the Conference USA title beating the Houston Cougars 38-32. This is the second year in a row that the Pirate have won the C-USA title. Biggest question after the game was not where are the Pirates going in the bowl game but was that the last game in Greenville for Skip Holtz.
Could somebody tell me what's going on ? Earlier in the week Wake and N C State lost their ACC-Big Ten challenge games. They both looked awful. Saturday Wake goes to 17th ranked Gonzaga all the way across the country to Seattle Washington and wins while N C State traveled to Marquette Wisc and over comes a 11 point half time deficit to win.
This year State and Wake Forest play each in conference play before Christmas. I wonder which team will show up.
You can kind of see a trend. Carolina is going to be good in basketball but when ever they play a really good team they may keep it close but may not win many of the big games. John (one and done) Wall lead the way for Kentucky today in beating Carolina by two. I suspect next year at this time John Wall will be in the NBA and Kentucky will be on probation.
Duke is a lot like Carolina as they may not win many when they play the top teams this year. They only handled St Johns by nine in Cameron.
Cousin Lauren Doughtie trying to qualify for the LPGA is five over after seven holes of the third round. The tournament is a 90 hole event that was stopped early Friday by this rain that we got all day today and today's play was cancelled as it continued to rain in Daytona Beach. through seven holes Lauren was one under and tied for 59th position. The top 30 players will make the LPGA. Lauren is five shots off the top 30. if they get good weather Sunday I suspect they will finish the tournament on Monday.
Appalachian State dream of winning a fourth FCS title in five years is alive. App St beat the defending champion Richmond tonight in Richmond 35-31.
Could somebody tell me what's going on ? Earlier in the week Wake and N C State lost their ACC-Big Ten challenge games. They both looked awful. Saturday Wake goes to 17th ranked Gonzaga all the way across the country to Seattle Washington and wins while N C State traveled to Marquette Wisc and over comes a 11 point half time deficit to win.
This year State and Wake Forest play each in conference play before Christmas. I wonder which team will show up.
You can kind of see a trend. Carolina is going to be good in basketball but when ever they play a really good team they may keep it close but may not win many of the big games. John (one and done) Wall lead the way for Kentucky today in beating Carolina by two. I suspect next year at this time John Wall will be in the NBA and Kentucky will be on probation.
Duke is a lot like Carolina as they may not win many when they play the top teams this year. They only handled St Johns by nine in Cameron.
Cousin Lauren Doughtie trying to qualify for the LPGA is five over after seven holes of the third round. The tournament is a 90 hole event that was stopped early Friday by this rain that we got all day today and today's play was cancelled as it continued to rain in Daytona Beach. through seven holes Lauren was one under and tied for 59th position. The top 30 players will make the LPGA. Lauren is five shots off the top 30. if they get good weather Sunday I suspect they will finish the tournament on Monday.
Appalachian State dream of winning a fourth FCS title in five years is alive. App St beat the defending champion Richmond tonight in Richmond 35-31.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Chapel Hill Here They Come
The Tarboro Vikings with stood an offensive explosion from the Wolfpack of East Bladen but when they needed defense the Vikings pitched a shutout in the second half and the Tarboro Vikings win the 2-A Eastern Finals beating East Bladen 28-22.
Tarboro found themselves down 22-21 at the half. They advance to the finals in Chapel Hill for the second year in a row. They will play Mountain Heritage who won 51-13 in the west tonight. Mt Heritage is out of Burnsville North Carolina.The 2-A finals will again be played Friday night in Kenan Stadium at UNC.
The fourth time in five years a Nash County school played in the Eastern finals and for the four time in a row heart break. Last year Rocky Mount led late in the fourth quarter and was running out the clock and fumbled and West Craven drove down the field to win late. Southern Nash was in command leading 20-17 and had South Johnston out of time outs and fumbled and SJ managed to drive the field and kick a field goal to tie.
It took three over times as neither team could score a touchdown in the first two and settled for field goals and a 26-26 score. Southern took one play to score but missed the extra point. South Johnston responded to score a touchdown and did not miss the extra point to beat Southern Nash 33-32.
Southern lead 20-10 with six minutes to play in the game and managed to lose.
The news is not good at all for North Edgecombe as their trip to Teachey to play Wallace Rose Hill turn into a night mare as WRH trips North Edgecombe 46-14.
Tarboro will try to make up for last years final game. Southern Nash finishes the season 11-4 which now turns out to be their most successful season since 1991. North Edgecombe has their first winning season since Raymond Cobb took off to the other side of the county and SouthWest.
Tarboro found themselves down 22-21 at the half. They advance to the finals in Chapel Hill for the second year in a row. They will play Mountain Heritage who won 51-13 in the west tonight. Mt Heritage is out of Burnsville North Carolina.The 2-A finals will again be played Friday night in Kenan Stadium at UNC.
The fourth time in five years a Nash County school played in the Eastern finals and for the four time in a row heart break. Last year Rocky Mount led late in the fourth quarter and was running out the clock and fumbled and West Craven drove down the field to win late. Southern Nash was in command leading 20-17 and had South Johnston out of time outs and fumbled and SJ managed to drive the field and kick a field goal to tie.
It took three over times as neither team could score a touchdown in the first two and settled for field goals and a 26-26 score. Southern took one play to score but missed the extra point. South Johnston responded to score a touchdown and did not miss the extra point to beat Southern Nash 33-32.
Southern lead 20-10 with six minutes to play in the game and managed to lose.
The news is not good at all for North Edgecombe as their trip to Teachey to play Wallace Rose Hill turn into a night mare as WRH trips North Edgecombe 46-14.
Tarboro will try to make up for last years final game. Southern Nash finishes the season 11-4 which now turns out to be their most successful season since 1991. North Edgecombe has their first winning season since Raymond Cobb took off to the other side of the county and SouthWest.
Eastern Finals Friday
Last night the Gryphon boys basketball remained unbeaten winning at home against SouthWest Edgecombe. It was a specials night for two Gryphons who this year transferred from Cougarland. The girls also handled the lady Cougars to win their second game in a row. The girls are now 2-1 on the season while the boys are 3-0
The Eastern Finals: If you are a person who loves to watch local teams when they play in the playoffs then you are traveling tonight.
Southern Nash @South Johnston- The last Big East team will need to cover all over the field. We all remember that Rocky Mount hit them for a big play passing when they should have been expecting it. If Southern holds on to the ball they have a chance but they can not afford to be –minus two in turnovers when this one is over. South Johnston will play in the state championship game for the first time ever. SJ 28 Southern Nash 20
North Edgecombe @ Wallace Rose Hill- By far the Warriors have the most to be proud of this year. No one, no not one thought they would still be playing. If the truth be known, I don’t know of many who thought they would win more than two or three games this year. WRH will move on 28-6 over the Warriors. I hope the Warriors fool me again.
Tarboro @ East Bladen: Tarboro will try to get back to the final game for the second year in a row. This will be their stiffest challenge to date. Tarboro will be heading back to the the championship game after they beat East Bladen 19-6.
Hope that all three of our local teams win.
The first time ever the Big Ten has beaten the ACC in the Big Ten-ACC showdown. All six team that lost played a part but none was bigger than Clemson blowing a 23 point lead with 17 minutes to play and losing.
Last night Buffalo had a home NFL football game in Toronto Canada. When the 90 something owner of the Bills dies expect the Bills to find a new Home. LA?, San Antonio?
Cousin Lauren Doughtie has now played two rounds in the LPGA qualifying school in Daytona Beach Fl. She shot 77 Wednesdayand had a 73 yesterday. She is tied for 69th position. She has three rounds to go and needs to shoot in the 60's all three days to try to make the LPGA.
The Eastern Finals: If you are a person who loves to watch local teams when they play in the playoffs then you are traveling tonight.
Southern Nash @South Johnston- The last Big East team will need to cover all over the field. We all remember that Rocky Mount hit them for a big play passing when they should have been expecting it. If Southern holds on to the ball they have a chance but they can not afford to be –minus two in turnovers when this one is over. South Johnston will play in the state championship game for the first time ever. SJ 28 Southern Nash 20
North Edgecombe @ Wallace Rose Hill- By far the Warriors have the most to be proud of this year. No one, no not one thought they would still be playing. If the truth be known, I don’t know of many who thought they would win more than two or three games this year. WRH will move on 28-6 over the Warriors. I hope the Warriors fool me again.
Tarboro @ East Bladen: Tarboro will try to get back to the final game for the second year in a row. This will be their stiffest challenge to date. Tarboro will be heading back to the the championship game after they beat East Bladen 19-6.
Hope that all three of our local teams win.
The first time ever the Big Ten has beaten the ACC in the Big Ten-ACC showdown. All six team that lost played a part but none was bigger than Clemson blowing a 23 point lead with 17 minutes to play and losing.
Last night Buffalo had a home NFL football game in Toronto Canada. When the 90 something owner of the Bills dies expect the Bills to find a new Home. LA?, San Antonio?
Cousin Lauren Doughtie has now played two rounds in the LPGA qualifying school in Daytona Beach Fl. She shot 77 Wednesdayand had a 73 yesterday. She is tied for 69th position. She has three rounds to go and needs to shoot in the 60's all three days to try to make the LPGA.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Faces In the Crowd
If you are a person who reads Sports Illustrated then you will see in this weeks addition that former Rocky Mount High, 2005 North Carolina High School Athlete of the year and Elon three time football All American Terrell Hudgins has made the faces in the crowd section. It lists all the records he has accomplished since playing college football.
Terrell is also a finalist for FCS Walter Peyton Award which is given to the top FCS football player in the country.
Tonight the Gryphons play host to SouthWest Edgecombe in basketball. Mike Gainey as athletic director has learned over the past six years to not schedule any basketball games on Friday nights while the football playoffs are going on. No telling how many basketball games have been changed the last few years because of a football playoff game on a Friday night
The Heisman Trophy will be given out soon and there is no front runner that is clear cut. What I saw Saturday night the kid from Stanford would not be a bad choice at all.
The Tiger Woods drama this past weekend just shows you how much that the news media has become the National Inquirer. There is no longer let’s make sure we have two sources before we run with a story. Just find any body that will say anything and go with it. My theory is his wife was chasing him with a golf club. What’s yours?
Both Drew Brees and Brett Farve are having their greatest years in pro football. Farve a lifetime 86.3 rating as a quarter back has a 112 rating right now. Brees is closer to a lifetime 90 rating is also has a 112 rating. Old Peyton Manning may well cancel both out and win the MVP again.
When Farve left Green Bay he was replaced by Aaron Rogers. Right now Rogers is third in QB ratings. When Brees left San Diego his spot was taken by Philip Rivers who is fifth in QB ratings and was first last year. Seems like in all four instances Brees, Farve, Rogers and Rivers things have worked out quite well.
The Pirates of ECU should have a full house on Saturday as they host the Houston Cougars in the championship game of Conference-USA. I like playing the championships on somebody’s home field. The place will be sold out unlike the ACC championship game in Tampa which may have 30,000 if they are lucky,
I think BOA Stadium in Charlotte is the only logical choice for the ACC. It is as close to the center of the conference as you can get with out being home field advantage for any body. If you look at Georgia Tech, Clemson, Virginia Tech and the Big Four in North Carolina they are all within a half days ride of Charlotte
Now that everyone has played five college basketball games what have we learned? Duke despite losing last night and Carolina still head the field. State is about where they have been for the past 15 years. Sure looks like Wake is going downhill this year.
Terrell is also a finalist for FCS Walter Peyton Award which is given to the top FCS football player in the country.
Tonight the Gryphons play host to SouthWest Edgecombe in basketball. Mike Gainey as athletic director has learned over the past six years to not schedule any basketball games on Friday nights while the football playoffs are going on. No telling how many basketball games have been changed the last few years because of a football playoff game on a Friday night
The Heisman Trophy will be given out soon and there is no front runner that is clear cut. What I saw Saturday night the kid from Stanford would not be a bad choice at all.
The Tiger Woods drama this past weekend just shows you how much that the news media has become the National Inquirer. There is no longer let’s make sure we have two sources before we run with a story. Just find any body that will say anything and go with it. My theory is his wife was chasing him with a golf club. What’s yours?
Both Drew Brees and Brett Farve are having their greatest years in pro football. Farve a lifetime 86.3 rating as a quarter back has a 112 rating right now. Brees is closer to a lifetime 90 rating is also has a 112 rating. Old Peyton Manning may well cancel both out and win the MVP again.
When Farve left Green Bay he was replaced by Aaron Rogers. Right now Rogers is third in QB ratings. When Brees left San Diego his spot was taken by Philip Rivers who is fifth in QB ratings and was first last year. Seems like in all four instances Brees, Farve, Rogers and Rivers things have worked out quite well.
The Pirates of ECU should have a full house on Saturday as they host the Houston Cougars in the championship game of Conference-USA. I like playing the championships on somebody’s home field. The place will be sold out unlike the ACC championship game in Tampa which may have 30,000 if they are lucky,
I think BOA Stadium in Charlotte is the only logical choice for the ACC. It is as close to the center of the conference as you can get with out being home field advantage for any body. If you look at Georgia Tech, Clemson, Virginia Tech and the Big Four in North Carolina they are all within a half days ride of Charlotte
Now that everyone has played five college basketball games what have we learned? Duke despite losing last night and Carolina still head the field. State is about where they have been for the past 15 years. Sure looks like Wake is going downhill this year.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Bobby Bowden Steps Down
Bobby Bowden retired as coach of Florida State football yesterday and with it swirls controversy. Bowden is 73-42 this decade in football. I am sure there is not a football school in North Carolina would jump to be 73-42 in the last nine years except for Appalachian State. That is not the case at Florida State.
Bowden has drowned in his own success. The people at Florida State will not accept 6-6 or 7-5 every year. They expect more even if it is not realistic. Even Bowden himself wanted one more year because he thought next year might be like it use to be.
Notre Dame has fired their last three coaches because they think they should win the National championship every year. Those three coaches won 58 % of their games. Talk about living on the past.
Carolina fired one of their own in basket ball because he didn’t win enough. State was glad to see Herb Sendek leave winning 59% of his games and look what they got 55% wins the next three years
My first job back when I was 14 years old was selling doughnuts in the bakery back home. My dad and I sat at our kitchen table the night before the great adventure was to begin. He told me something that night which I have tried my best to carry in life. He said “The best security in a job is insecurity.” As long as you keep thinking what I can do to keep this job, you will do good work”.
You know he was right. Bobby Bowden is living off his past. He thinks he has security and is no longer giving the job his best effort. There is one other problem with my statement. He is 80 years old. He may think he is giving it his all and he may be for an 80 year old man. Florida States thinking is that is not good enough any more.
When I heard Bowden say I want one more year. I lost a little of that respect you have in a man. It is now what I want and not what is good for the University. His thinking has become to secure in his job. He is more important than the University.
Here is the sad part of all this. Statistics show that people die within 18 months after they are forced to retire. Does any body remember that “Bear” Bryant, he wasn’t forced to retire but died 28 days after his last game.
You know Dean Smith did it the right way. The day he decided he wasn’t excited any more he quit. No formal announcement. No year long good bye tour. He just said it’s time for me to go. I think Bowden could have done that about five years ago. Bowden and Florida State had a dream to be the winningest coach in college football history. Joe Paterno messed that plan up by not dieing and keeps on winning.
Florida State will now go through three coaches in 15 years because of expectations.
Sports, since it really doesn’t mean anything in life we can all expect perfection. Every time there is a game played one side loses. It is ok to have a loser as long as it is not us.
Every time I send a check to the Wolfpack Club I think that gives me the right to express my opinion about what’s going on up there. It really doesn’t. It just gives the right to sit in a seat when I get there.
Whether it is a coach or a fan, we have all blown athletics out of proportion. The sun will rise up tomorrow whether we beat Carolina or not.
Bobby Bowden was good for college football. Just look at the ACC. Nine of the twelve members play in stadiums that seat 55,000 or more. Before Florida State joined the ACC only Clemson could say that. Bobby Bowden brought football to ACC country.
Bowden has drowned in his own success. The people at Florida State will not accept 6-6 or 7-5 every year. They expect more even if it is not realistic. Even Bowden himself wanted one more year because he thought next year might be like it use to be.
Notre Dame has fired their last three coaches because they think they should win the National championship every year. Those three coaches won 58 % of their games. Talk about living on the past.
Carolina fired one of their own in basket ball because he didn’t win enough. State was glad to see Herb Sendek leave winning 59% of his games and look what they got 55% wins the next three years
My first job back when I was 14 years old was selling doughnuts in the bakery back home. My dad and I sat at our kitchen table the night before the great adventure was to begin. He told me something that night which I have tried my best to carry in life. He said “The best security in a job is insecurity.” As long as you keep thinking what I can do to keep this job, you will do good work”.
You know he was right. Bobby Bowden is living off his past. He thinks he has security and is no longer giving the job his best effort. There is one other problem with my statement. He is 80 years old. He may think he is giving it his all and he may be for an 80 year old man. Florida States thinking is that is not good enough any more.
When I heard Bowden say I want one more year. I lost a little of that respect you have in a man. It is now what I want and not what is good for the University. His thinking has become to secure in his job. He is more important than the University.
Here is the sad part of all this. Statistics show that people die within 18 months after they are forced to retire. Does any body remember that “Bear” Bryant, he wasn’t forced to retire but died 28 days after his last game.
You know Dean Smith did it the right way. The day he decided he wasn’t excited any more he quit. No formal announcement. No year long good bye tour. He just said it’s time for me to go. I think Bowden could have done that about five years ago. Bowden and Florida State had a dream to be the winningest coach in college football history. Joe Paterno messed that plan up by not dieing and keeps on winning.
Florida State will now go through three coaches in 15 years because of expectations.
Sports, since it really doesn’t mean anything in life we can all expect perfection. Every time there is a game played one side loses. It is ok to have a loser as long as it is not us.
Every time I send a check to the Wolfpack Club I think that gives me the right to express my opinion about what’s going on up there. It really doesn’t. It just gives the right to sit in a seat when I get there.
Whether it is a coach or a fan, we have all blown athletics out of proportion. The sun will rise up tomorrow whether we beat Carolina or not.
Bobby Bowden was good for college football. Just look at the ACC. Nine of the twelve members play in stadiums that seat 55,000 or more. Before Florida State joined the ACC only Clemson could say that. Bobby Bowden brought football to ACC country.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Brees Storms Past Brady
Last night the Super Dome was like it was the first game back after Hurricane Katrina. New England was the Turkey on the Saints plate. The Saints played almost perfect. When ever any team plays that way they had better look out next week. The Saints travel to play the Redskins. This is no joke. The Redskins have a chance.
New England is still good but they no longer look invincible. their defense will be their downfall.
What a difference one game makes. N C State winning over Carolina Saturday makes the off season look a lot better than finishing 4-8. Injuries are the unspoken tangible each and every season that breaks or makes coaches. State finished the season with twelve players out for the year. There was talk in the preseason that 9-3 was possible.
Bobby Bowden will step down today as coach at Florida State. There was a fifteen year stretch that Florida State football was what Notre Dame thinks it is where they finished in the top five every year. Boy the Seminoles sure have fell off the map in the last ten years. Bowden has still win 73 and lost 46 this decade.
The three remaining Twin County teams hit the road in the Eastern finals this Friday.
North Edgecombe has the most daunting task as they travel to take on Wallace Rose Hill in the 1-A Eastern finals.
Tarboro will be the only team on the road favored as they travel to ETown as it is known down south (ElizabethTown) to take on East Bladen. The only common opponent between the two is Whiteville who Tarboro waxed 41-0 this past Friday. During the regular season EB beat Whiteville 19-0.
Southern Nash makes that trip down I-95 to South Johnston in the 3-AA Eastern finals. Since Nash County schools have all been in the same conference for the last five years, this will be the fourth time one of them has made it as far as the fourth round.
I don't know whether any of you ever read the blog by Nick Phillips "thoughts out of my head". You should when ever you get a chance. Nick now a sophomore at UNC-P or as they want to be called Just Pembroke. The former Gryphon is heading upwards in the world of Journalism. I recommend reading his blog. It's good stuff.
New England is still good but they no longer look invincible. their defense will be their downfall.
What a difference one game makes. N C State winning over Carolina Saturday makes the off season look a lot better than finishing 4-8. Injuries are the unspoken tangible each and every season that breaks or makes coaches. State finished the season with twelve players out for the year. There was talk in the preseason that 9-3 was possible.
Bobby Bowden will step down today as coach at Florida State. There was a fifteen year stretch that Florida State football was what Notre Dame thinks it is where they finished in the top five every year. Boy the Seminoles sure have fell off the map in the last ten years. Bowden has still win 73 and lost 46 this decade.
The three remaining Twin County teams hit the road in the Eastern finals this Friday.
North Edgecombe has the most daunting task as they travel to take on Wallace Rose Hill in the 1-A Eastern finals.
Tarboro will be the only team on the road favored as they travel to ETown as it is known down south (ElizabethTown) to take on East Bladen. The only common opponent between the two is Whiteville who Tarboro waxed 41-0 this past Friday. During the regular season EB beat Whiteville 19-0.
Southern Nash makes that trip down I-95 to South Johnston in the 3-AA Eastern finals. Since Nash County schools have all been in the same conference for the last five years, this will be the fourth time one of them has made it as far as the fourth round.
I don't know whether any of you ever read the blog by Nick Phillips "thoughts out of my head". You should when ever you get a chance. Nick now a sophomore at UNC-P or as they want to be called Just Pembroke. The former Gryphon is heading upwards in the world of Journalism. I recommend reading his blog. It's good stuff.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Basketball Is Off and Running
The boys varsity basketball season got underway this weekend and Rocky Mount has taken home the championship in the Knightdale Tipoff Classic.
Friday saw the Gryphons eek out a 86-85 victory over East Chapel Hill. Saturday night the Gryphons found themselves matched up with conference rival Fike who had beaten the host school Knightdale by five on Friday. The Gryphons win the championship with a 20 point victory over the Golden Demons.
The girls lost a heart breaker on Friday losing 38-37 to Wake Forest Rolesville but was able to take third place in the tournament winning by four over the host Knightdale High.
Brain game: I was home Saturday morning and saw the Rocky Mount team crush it's two opponents on the WRAL-TV show " The Brain Game".
I sure do miss Mark Roberts host of the Brain Game on WRAL with the traffic reports week day mornings.
Did you see where Kendall Noble former Gryphon football player was named second team all MEAC in football?
Now that Thanksgiving is gone I wore Christmas red to church yesterday. It had nothing to do with N C State beating Carolina on Saturday.
Congratulations to the E C U Pirates finally beating Southern Mississippi. What better time than to clinch their division and in doing so get to host the conference championship Saturday. GO Pirates
Friday saw the Gryphons eek out a 86-85 victory over East Chapel Hill. Saturday night the Gryphons found themselves matched up with conference rival Fike who had beaten the host school Knightdale by five on Friday. The Gryphons win the championship with a 20 point victory over the Golden Demons.
The girls lost a heart breaker on Friday losing 38-37 to Wake Forest Rolesville but was able to take third place in the tournament winning by four over the host Knightdale High.
Brain game: I was home Saturday morning and saw the Rocky Mount team crush it's two opponents on the WRAL-TV show " The Brain Game".
I sure do miss Mark Roberts host of the Brain Game on WRAL with the traffic reports week day mornings.
Did you see where Kendall Noble former Gryphon football player was named second team all MEAC in football?
Now that Thanksgiving is gone I wore Christmas red to church yesterday. It had nothing to do with N C State beating Carolina on Saturday.
Congratulations to the E C U Pirates finally beating Southern Mississippi. What better time than to clinch their division and in doing so get to host the conference championship Saturday. GO Pirates
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Gryphon Players Of The Decade
Once again the radio crew has come up with their top fifteen players of the decade in Gryphon football. Wes Bradshaw, Charles Alston and myself have come of with fifteen really good ones. Any time you win 93 games in ten years it takes more than fifteen player to make that happen. Remember, as they say this is for entertainment purposes only. Don't get all our of whack if we left someone off or they are not in the right order. I can tell you the three of us disagreed on the order on several players, but then it again this is my blog so I had final say.
15
The linemen: Linemen are hard to rate. Once the ball is snapped you don't notice them until after the play is over. Unless there is holding, a sack or a big pileup you never know they are out there. I can assure you coaches on the other teams know they are there when they look at film. We have pick five linemen and we are calling them #15. Regardless here are the five linemen of the decade.
Torey Lee : "Pork Chop" Maybe the best down field blocker in Gryphon history
Whit Barnes: Committed to Wake forest even before his senior season. That will tell you right there he was on everybody's radar.
Kendall Noble: Has the body size to make it in the NFL. Has been a multi year starter while playing at Norfolk State at tackle.
Nazir Levine: Gryphon backs have made many a yard running behind Nazir.
Chauncey Perry: Wide body who could make way for Gryphon runners.
10.
Brian Goodwin: Was such an all round athlete. Was more valuable to team on defense. I still think he could make NFL as cornerback but chose Carolina Baseball.
9.
Rob Nelson: Despite quarterbacking on a losing team in 2001 people forget that he was named Big East player of the year.
8.
Mike Mason: Blazing speed was double teamed most of his career. Hold most pass receiving records for Rocky Mount.
7.
Collins Cuthrell: Won 21 game as a two year starter. The only quarter back this decade to average ten wins a season. Took every snap his senior season and considering he was hit on almost every pass play that will attest to his conditioning and strength. Third all time in most passing categories.
6.
Demetric Marshall: 2,100 yards rushing and thirty touchdowns in one season. That one season is probably the best individual season of the decade.
5.
Robert Hart: If a player ever had the right last name it was Robert. Robert Hart was the leading tackler in Gryphon history at the time of his graduation. If you saw him in the hall way you wood never know he played football. He is a prime example of why sports can be great. Robert was able to be a great football player despite his body telling him he wasn't capable physically of doing what he was able to accomplish.
4.
Nick Hahula: Holds every kicking record related to points in Gryphon history. Whether it was his kickoff in the end zone or punts with no return Hahooola was a vital part of the Gryphon defense with field position. Started at fullback his last two seasons for good measure.
3.
Marquavis Alston: All time leading rusher and touchdown maker in Gryphon history. Only running back to get a thousand yards rushing in a season twice and he did it three times. Had good speed but was not a speed merchant. Not all that big but could always get five more yards after contact.
2.
Terrell Hudgins: Holds almost every passing record and total yardage records in Gryphon history. Could also have played defense but was too valuable at quarterback to risk a defensive injury. While at Elon has become the greatest pass receiver in college history. Has a chance in pro football at wide receiver.
1.
Stephan Virgil: How good was Stephan? He started his fist game his freshman year and every game there after. Played only defense early in career but his athletic ability gave him more offensive time as career developed. Scored as runner, pass receiver, kick returner and defensive back. Hold Gryphon career record for yards per catch average in career. Regardless of what position he played he produced. Has started his last two years at Virginia Tech at cornerback.
When you consider maybe two hundred player have played Gryphon football this decade it is impossible to find only the best fifteen. There is no disrespect to any one intended who is not on the list. Tell us who you think should be on the list any why?
15
The linemen: Linemen are hard to rate. Once the ball is snapped you don't notice them until after the play is over. Unless there is holding, a sack or a big pileup you never know they are out there. I can assure you coaches on the other teams know they are there when they look at film. We have pick five linemen and we are calling them #15. Regardless here are the five linemen of the decade.
Torey Lee : "Pork Chop" Maybe the best down field blocker in Gryphon history
Whit Barnes: Committed to Wake forest even before his senior season. That will tell you right there he was on everybody's radar.
Kendall Noble: Has the body size to make it in the NFL. Has been a multi year starter while playing at Norfolk State at tackle.
Nazir Levine: Gryphon backs have made many a yard running behind Nazir.
Chauncey Perry: Wide body who could make way for Gryphon runners.
10.
Brian Goodwin: Was such an all round athlete. Was more valuable to team on defense. I still think he could make NFL as cornerback but chose Carolina Baseball.
9.
Rob Nelson: Despite quarterbacking on a losing team in 2001 people forget that he was named Big East player of the year.
8.
Mike Mason: Blazing speed was double teamed most of his career. Hold most pass receiving records for Rocky Mount.
7.
Collins Cuthrell: Won 21 game as a two year starter. The only quarter back this decade to average ten wins a season. Took every snap his senior season and considering he was hit on almost every pass play that will attest to his conditioning and strength. Third all time in most passing categories.
6.
Demetric Marshall: 2,100 yards rushing and thirty touchdowns in one season. That one season is probably the best individual season of the decade.
5.
Robert Hart: If a player ever had the right last name it was Robert. Robert Hart was the leading tackler in Gryphon history at the time of his graduation. If you saw him in the hall way you wood never know he played football. He is a prime example of why sports can be great. Robert was able to be a great football player despite his body telling him he wasn't capable physically of doing what he was able to accomplish.
4.
Nick Hahula: Holds every kicking record related to points in Gryphon history. Whether it was his kickoff in the end zone or punts with no return Hahooola was a vital part of the Gryphon defense with field position. Started at fullback his last two seasons for good measure.
3.
Marquavis Alston: All time leading rusher and touchdown maker in Gryphon history. Only running back to get a thousand yards rushing in a season twice and he did it three times. Had good speed but was not a speed merchant. Not all that big but could always get five more yards after contact.
2.
Terrell Hudgins: Holds almost every passing record and total yardage records in Gryphon history. Could also have played defense but was too valuable at quarterback to risk a defensive injury. While at Elon has become the greatest pass receiver in college history. Has a chance in pro football at wide receiver.
1.
Stephan Virgil: How good was Stephan? He started his fist game his freshman year and every game there after. Played only defense early in career but his athletic ability gave him more offensive time as career developed. Scored as runner, pass receiver, kick returner and defensive back. Hold Gryphon career record for yards per catch average in career. Regardless of what position he played he produced. Has started his last two years at Virginia Tech at cornerback.
When you consider maybe two hundred player have played Gryphon football this decade it is impossible to find only the best fifteen. There is no disrespect to any one intended who is not on the list. Tell us who you think should be on the list any why?
Friday, November 27, 2009
What A Night Of Football
Four local teams took to the field in the third round of the state playoffs and three of the four went to the wire.
In what was billed as the best game across the state was played in Pinetops tonight and the billing did not disappoint with the results except for the score. Playing in front of a full house but not quite as many as witnessed the Tarboro game a few weeks back Reidsville and SouthWest Edgecombe battled right down to almost the last play before Reidsville edged the Cougars 22-20.
The end of the first quarter saw a 0-0 game and 14-14 at the half. Then it remained 14-14 heading into the fourth quarter. Reidsville score early and made the two point conversion and the Cougars scored with less than three minutes to play and missed their two pointer.
SWE tried an onside kick but Reidsville recovered but the Cougars forced the two time defending champions to punt with just over one minute to play. SWE moved it to the 21 yard line and on fourth down tried a game winning field goal but the muddy field the snap never got back to the holder and no attempt was made.
Reidsville 22- SouthWest 20
The last surviving Big East team is still alive and well despite losing four fumbles on the game. Southern Nash has gone to Gray's Creek tonight and will come home from Hope Mills with a 13-7 victory. Gray's Creek fumble on Southern's ten yard line with over two minutes to play but they held the Firebirds and got the ball on the Southern 42 yard line with a minute to play and were driving until the Firebirds intercepted a pass to seal the game.
Southern Nash 13- Gray's Creek 7
They lost their first three games of the season but after tonight North Edgecombe remains alive in the 1-A playoffs with a 16-8 victory over Jones County. The Warriors will have to travel again next week as they will take on Wallace Rose Hill in Teachey next week.
North Edgecombe 16- Jones County 8
The laughter of the night took place in Tarboro as the Vikings continue their assault on a return trip to the state championship game as they white washed Whiteville 41-0.
Rocky Mount boys opened the basketball season beating East Chapel Hill 86-85 and play Fike tonight in the championship game of the Knightdale High tip off tournament. The girls lost 37-36 to Wake Forest Rolesville.
Sunday's blog: Top fifteen football players of the Decade.
In what was billed as the best game across the state was played in Pinetops tonight and the billing did not disappoint with the results except for the score. Playing in front of a full house but not quite as many as witnessed the Tarboro game a few weeks back Reidsville and SouthWest Edgecombe battled right down to almost the last play before Reidsville edged the Cougars 22-20.
The end of the first quarter saw a 0-0 game and 14-14 at the half. Then it remained 14-14 heading into the fourth quarter. Reidsville score early and made the two point conversion and the Cougars scored with less than three minutes to play and missed their two pointer.
SWE tried an onside kick but Reidsville recovered but the Cougars forced the two time defending champions to punt with just over one minute to play. SWE moved it to the 21 yard line and on fourth down tried a game winning field goal but the muddy field the snap never got back to the holder and no attempt was made.
Reidsville 22- SouthWest 20
The last surviving Big East team is still alive and well despite losing four fumbles on the game. Southern Nash has gone to Gray's Creek tonight and will come home from Hope Mills with a 13-7 victory. Gray's Creek fumble on Southern's ten yard line with over two minutes to play but they held the Firebirds and got the ball on the Southern 42 yard line with a minute to play and were driving until the Firebirds intercepted a pass to seal the game.
Southern Nash 13- Gray's Creek 7
They lost their first three games of the season but after tonight North Edgecombe remains alive in the 1-A playoffs with a 16-8 victory over Jones County. The Warriors will have to travel again next week as they will take on Wallace Rose Hill in Teachey next week.
North Edgecombe 16- Jones County 8
The laughter of the night took place in Tarboro as the Vikings continue their assault on a return trip to the state championship game as they white washed Whiteville 41-0.
Rocky Mount boys opened the basketball season beating East Chapel Hill 86-85 and play Fike tonight in the championship game of the Knightdale High tip off tournament. The girls lost 37-36 to Wake Forest Rolesville.
Sunday's blog: Top fifteen football players of the Decade.
Thanksgiving Friday Football
Four Twin County teams are still alive in the state playoffs the Friday after Thanksgiving. Two of those teams Tarboro and SouthWest Edgecombe are no surprises at all. North Edgecombe and Southern Nash I doubt whether they expected to still be a live way back when practice started the 1st of August.
Reidsville @ SouthWest Edgecombe
There is no bigger game in the state tonight than the 2-AA playoff game in Pinetops featuring the most celebrated football program in North Carolina history in Reidsville. Reidsville won their first state title back in the 20's and right now rides a 45 game winning streak. If Reidsville wins their 18th title they must pass through a power running Cougar team that should be use to playing in the mud for the third straight time this playoffs . It is unfortunate that this games outcome may come down to the team that can stand up during the crucial plays. Even though I picked the Cougars to win the state championship way back during last years football season I think SWE goes down tonight. Reidsville 27 SWE 20
Whiteville @ Tarboro
Two big third round games being played ten miles apart I think the Vikings will advance and continue their quest to make it to the State championship game two years in a row. This game will not be easy but the Vikes are better Tarboro 28- Whiteville 14
North Edgecombe at Jones County
If there was ever a good story this year in high school football you don't have to look any further than Leggett. Mid September seemed as if two wins on the year would be a wonderful year. Here the Warriors are playing the Friday after Thanksgiving. Jones County 25 North Edcombe 16.
Southern Nash @ Gray's Creek
The coaches knew what they were talking about when they voted Southern second place in the pre-season poll. The last surviving Nash County team and Big East member has a shot in this one. Unset can only happen if the Firebirds hold on to the ball. Gray's Creek 26 Southern Nash 22.
Rocky Mount starts it's basketball season today as both the boys and girls take part in Knightdale High's Thanksgiving basketball tournament.
Reidsville @ SouthWest Edgecombe
There is no bigger game in the state tonight than the 2-AA playoff game in Pinetops featuring the most celebrated football program in North Carolina history in Reidsville. Reidsville won their first state title back in the 20's and right now rides a 45 game winning streak. If Reidsville wins their 18th title they must pass through a power running Cougar team that should be use to playing in the mud for the third straight time this playoffs . It is unfortunate that this games outcome may come down to the team that can stand up during the crucial plays. Even though I picked the Cougars to win the state championship way back during last years football season I think SWE goes down tonight. Reidsville 27 SWE 20
Whiteville @ Tarboro
Two big third round games being played ten miles apart I think the Vikings will advance and continue their quest to make it to the State championship game two years in a row. This game will not be easy but the Vikes are better Tarboro 28- Whiteville 14
North Edgecombe at Jones County
If there was ever a good story this year in high school football you don't have to look any further than Leggett. Mid September seemed as if two wins on the year would be a wonderful year. Here the Warriors are playing the Friday after Thanksgiving. Jones County 25 North Edcombe 16.
Southern Nash @ Gray's Creek
The coaches knew what they were talking about when they voted Southern second place in the pre-season poll. The last surviving Nash County team and Big East member has a shot in this one. Unset can only happen if the Firebirds hold on to the ball. Gray's Creek 26 Southern Nash 22.
Rocky Mount starts it's basketball season today as both the boys and girls take part in Knightdale High's Thanksgiving basketball tournament.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Greatest Gryphon Games Of the Decade
How great a game is sometimes depends which side of the scoreboard you sit when the game is over. When you lose you tend to forget the great things that you do to make a game special. Victory lingers in your mind forever. The ten best games of the decade have three Gryphon defeats. One thing to always remember the more important the game is tends to be remember as great long after a really good regular season game has faded in your memory.
10
The final game of the 2003 football season. Rocky Mount heads to Northern Nash as the favorite for the first time in several years. Northern jumps to a 14-0 in the first half. Down 14-7 heading into the fourth quarter a Stephan Virgil Punt return ties the game. The ensuing kickoff the Gryphons cause a fumble on the return and recover deep in Knight territory. The Gryphons waste little time and beat Northern 21-14.
9
The Eastern Finals in 2008. Rocky Mount leads 19-14 heading into the fourth quarter. The Gryphons running the clock out need one more first down and victory is ours. A fumble and West Craven marches down the field to score with 1.10 to play to take a 21-19 lead. Little time was almost enough for the Gryphons as they made it to the twenty two yard line. The only lost on the field all year for the 2008 Gryphons.
8
The opening conference game of the 2004 football season finds Rocky Mount traveling to Rose to take on a Rampant team that has dominated Rocky Mount the last ten years. The first half sees both sides create big plays and exciting scores. The Gryphons pull away in the third quarter only to watch Rose make a dash back and make the game close. This was the first sign that the 2004 Gryphons were going to be special. They beat rose 41-33.
7
The Eastern Finals in 2007. Rocky Mount faces off with Western Alamance for the third playoff year in a row. This game swings back and forth all night. Late fourth quarter Western forges ahead 44-37. Rocky Mount is coming right back down the field until an interception is return for a touchdown. Final score Western Alamance 50- Rocky Mount 37. The final score was in no way a reflection on how close this game was.
6
Heading into the final game of the 2009 season there is a potential three way tie possibility for second place in the new Big East conference. There is a drawing between Rocky Mount, Northern Nash and Southern Nash in case there is a tie. Rocky Mount gets fourth. That means if they lose to Northern instead of second place out right they will be out of the playoffs. Northern plays their best game of the season and has Rocky Mount on the ropes until Rocky Mount scores with 3.1 seconds to play in the game. 15-12 victory sends the Gryphons to the playoffs and Northern out of the playoffs.
5.
It has become a habit in the New-6 conference play that the winner of the Rocky Mount-SouthWest Edgecombe game will win the conference. The fourth year in a row the 2008 game is played on a Monday night at SouthWest. Rocky Mount leads 7-0 and the Cougars are on the goal line with a fourth down. There is no forward progress. The Gryphons hold, will win the conference crown and the 7-0 victory saved an undefeated regular season.
4
The opening game of the 2002 football season Rocky Mount travels to Douglas Byrd. Last season Byrd had embarrassed Rocky Mount at home. Before the game Byrd dedicated the press box to their Hall Of Fame coach Bob Paroli. The Gryphons jump out early and lead right to the end. Byrd scores late and the HOF coach Paroli instead of playing for over time goes for the two point conversion to win in regulation. The Gryphon D holds and escapes with a 20-19 upset win over Byrd. This was the game that put Rocky Mount on their seven year run of winning football.
3
Third Round of the 2006 state playoffs. Rocky Mount finds themselves matched up with Western Alamance for the second year in a row. Another shootout in which Rocky Mount scores with just over a minute to play. WA scores with six seconds to play to pull out the 41-37 victory and make the Gryphon ride home home about as miserable as it can get.
2
SouthWest Edgecombe and Rocky Mount square off in Rocky Mount during the 2007 regular season. Rocky Mount leads 15-12 late in the game. Less than a minute to play and Southwest gets a pass receiver open and is running to victory until Brian Goodwin runs him down at the five yard line and punches the ball free for a teammate to fall on it. Victory is saved.
There is one other game that we need to talk about. It will go down as the one to forget this decade. Rocky Mount leads Philip Rivers' dad Wakefield team 27-0 in the second quarter. A complete collapse by the Gryphons and they lose the playoff game 41-33. Easily the most disappointing game this decade.
Ahhh so many memories but here is the best one of all.
1
2004 conference championship game at New Bern. The up and coming Gryphons are undefeated and lead just about the entire second half. New Bern comes back and ties late in the game at 28-28. The first over time neither side scores but there is a delay over a fumblerooskie play that New Bern tried but failed to execute. New Bern scores first in the second over time and takes a 35-28 lead. Rocky Mount comes right back to make it 35-34. Everyone in the stadium is readying themselves for a third over time. B W Holt says this game is going to be decided right now. He puts the decision squarely on his shoulders to take the blame if we fail and lose. Terrell Hudgins rolls right, is hit at the one yard line but he falls across the goal line and the Gryphons pull off the upset of the decade and for the first time Gryphon fans realize they have a Hall of Fame coach in B W Holt.
I know I left off a few really good games. You have to remember this is only ten games out of 129 played this decade.
I hope you enjoyed the memories. Sunday's blog will name the top fifteen players of the decade.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
10
The final game of the 2003 football season. Rocky Mount heads to Northern Nash as the favorite for the first time in several years. Northern jumps to a 14-0 in the first half. Down 14-7 heading into the fourth quarter a Stephan Virgil Punt return ties the game. The ensuing kickoff the Gryphons cause a fumble on the return and recover deep in Knight territory. The Gryphons waste little time and beat Northern 21-14.
9
The Eastern Finals in 2008. Rocky Mount leads 19-14 heading into the fourth quarter. The Gryphons running the clock out need one more first down and victory is ours. A fumble and West Craven marches down the field to score with 1.10 to play to take a 21-19 lead. Little time was almost enough for the Gryphons as they made it to the twenty two yard line. The only lost on the field all year for the 2008 Gryphons.
8
The opening conference game of the 2004 football season finds Rocky Mount traveling to Rose to take on a Rampant team that has dominated Rocky Mount the last ten years. The first half sees both sides create big plays and exciting scores. The Gryphons pull away in the third quarter only to watch Rose make a dash back and make the game close. This was the first sign that the 2004 Gryphons were going to be special. They beat rose 41-33.
7
The Eastern Finals in 2007. Rocky Mount faces off with Western Alamance for the third playoff year in a row. This game swings back and forth all night. Late fourth quarter Western forges ahead 44-37. Rocky Mount is coming right back down the field until an interception is return for a touchdown. Final score Western Alamance 50- Rocky Mount 37. The final score was in no way a reflection on how close this game was.
6
Heading into the final game of the 2009 season there is a potential three way tie possibility for second place in the new Big East conference. There is a drawing between Rocky Mount, Northern Nash and Southern Nash in case there is a tie. Rocky Mount gets fourth. That means if they lose to Northern instead of second place out right they will be out of the playoffs. Northern plays their best game of the season and has Rocky Mount on the ropes until Rocky Mount scores with 3.1 seconds to play in the game. 15-12 victory sends the Gryphons to the playoffs and Northern out of the playoffs.
5.
It has become a habit in the New-6 conference play that the winner of the Rocky Mount-SouthWest Edgecombe game will win the conference. The fourth year in a row the 2008 game is played on a Monday night at SouthWest. Rocky Mount leads 7-0 and the Cougars are on the goal line with a fourth down. There is no forward progress. The Gryphons hold, will win the conference crown and the 7-0 victory saved an undefeated regular season.
4
The opening game of the 2002 football season Rocky Mount travels to Douglas Byrd. Last season Byrd had embarrassed Rocky Mount at home. Before the game Byrd dedicated the press box to their Hall Of Fame coach Bob Paroli. The Gryphons jump out early and lead right to the end. Byrd scores late and the HOF coach Paroli instead of playing for over time goes for the two point conversion to win in regulation. The Gryphon D holds and escapes with a 20-19 upset win over Byrd. This was the game that put Rocky Mount on their seven year run of winning football.
3
Third Round of the 2006 state playoffs. Rocky Mount finds themselves matched up with Western Alamance for the second year in a row. Another shootout in which Rocky Mount scores with just over a minute to play. WA scores with six seconds to play to pull out the 41-37 victory and make the Gryphon ride home home about as miserable as it can get.
2
SouthWest Edgecombe and Rocky Mount square off in Rocky Mount during the 2007 regular season. Rocky Mount leads 15-12 late in the game. Less than a minute to play and Southwest gets a pass receiver open and is running to victory until Brian Goodwin runs him down at the five yard line and punches the ball free for a teammate to fall on it. Victory is saved.
There is one other game that we need to talk about. It will go down as the one to forget this decade. Rocky Mount leads Philip Rivers' dad Wakefield team 27-0 in the second quarter. A complete collapse by the Gryphons and they lose the playoff game 41-33. Easily the most disappointing game this decade.
Ahhh so many memories but here is the best one of all.
1
2004 conference championship game at New Bern. The up and coming Gryphons are undefeated and lead just about the entire second half. New Bern comes back and ties late in the game at 28-28. The first over time neither side scores but there is a delay over a fumblerooskie play that New Bern tried but failed to execute. New Bern scores first in the second over time and takes a 35-28 lead. Rocky Mount comes right back to make it 35-34. Everyone in the stadium is readying themselves for a third over time. B W Holt says this game is going to be decided right now. He puts the decision squarely on his shoulders to take the blame if we fail and lose. Terrell Hudgins rolls right, is hit at the one yard line but he falls across the goal line and the Gryphons pull off the upset of the decade and for the first time Gryphon fans realize they have a Hall of Fame coach in B W Holt.
I know I left off a few really good games. You have to remember this is only ten games out of 129 played this decade.
I hope you enjoyed the memories. Sunday's blog will name the top fifteen players of the decade.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Gryphon Basketball Begins Friday
Mike Gainey will begin basketball season for the first time in six years with the entire team when the first game is played. The success of the football team in the recent past has prevented basketball from practicing in the preseason with the whole squad. Gainey has had his whole team all this week in preparations for the season opener Friday.
Both the boys and Pam Gainey's girls will be in the Knightdale High tournament which will have four girls and four boys teams tournament.
The boys with the influx of three transfer players should be the odds on favorite to win the first Big East basketball regular season title. The girls have already had a season ending injury to to the probable starting point guard which dampens hopes.
Early season looks: Carolina Basketball the defending national champions in college basketball already have a lost on the season to Syracuse who is no slouch. Sure seems to me that the Heels have a team full of 6 feet ten inch players that weight one hundred eighty five pounds. Point guard looks like another concern. Down year in Chapel Hill so they will probably will only win twenty two this year.
We will get a real good look at Duke tonight as they play in the semi finals of the Preseason NIT in New York. If I had to guess right now Duke is better than carolina but not by much. Duke does have better guards.
In Raleigh N C State is off to a 4-0 start. The past few years State has had a really good front line and poor guard play. This year the guards are better but not by much. Eighteen wins would be a great season for the Wolfpack.
E C U what more needs to be said. Basketball power Campbell has already beaten the Pirates. I just don't understand why year in and year out football and baseball hold their own in Greenville but basketball takes a back seat.
Saturday Tar heel football visits the Wolfpack with a Florida bowl game on the line for the Tar Heels. All indications are that the Heels should dominate. Why Don't I think so? State is terrible on defense but Carolina is not that good on offense. The Carolina defense scores more points than it's offense but State can move the ball. Don't be surprised if there is move blue in the stands than red.
Both the boys and Pam Gainey's girls will be in the Knightdale High tournament which will have four girls and four boys teams tournament.
The boys with the influx of three transfer players should be the odds on favorite to win the first Big East basketball regular season title. The girls have already had a season ending injury to to the probable starting point guard which dampens hopes.
Early season looks: Carolina Basketball the defending national champions in college basketball already have a lost on the season to Syracuse who is no slouch. Sure seems to me that the Heels have a team full of 6 feet ten inch players that weight one hundred eighty five pounds. Point guard looks like another concern. Down year in Chapel Hill so they will probably will only win twenty two this year.
We will get a real good look at Duke tonight as they play in the semi finals of the Preseason NIT in New York. If I had to guess right now Duke is better than carolina but not by much. Duke does have better guards.
In Raleigh N C State is off to a 4-0 start. The past few years State has had a really good front line and poor guard play. This year the guards are better but not by much. Eighteen wins would be a great season for the Wolfpack.
E C U what more needs to be said. Basketball power Campbell has already beaten the Pirates. I just don't understand why year in and year out football and baseball hold their own in Greenville but basketball takes a back seat.
Saturday Tar heel football visits the Wolfpack with a Florida bowl game on the line for the Tar Heels. All indications are that the Heels should dominate. Why Don't I think so? State is terrible on defense but Carolina is not that good on offense. The Carolina defense scores more points than it's offense but State can move the ball. Don't be surprised if there is move blue in the stands than red.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
First time In Six Years
Rocky Mount High School's football ball team will not practice on Thanksgiving day for the first time since 2003. Regardless of what happens the rest of the way for any team still playing, to me Thanksgiving Friday was the bench mark that you have had an excellent season. Rocky Mount was three and two during those Friday after Thankgiving games.
How about Edgecombe County: All three high schools are still alive in their divisions.
Just maybe the biggest game in the state Friday night will be played in Pinetops. Two time defending State champions Reidville will make a visit to rural Edgecombe County to take on SouthWest Edgecombe. The winner here will be the odds on favorite to win it all in two more weeks.
Tarboro as a number six seed has a home game Friday. Whiteville upset First flight and as a seven seed will travel.
North Edgecombe hits the road for the first time traveling to Jones County. who would have ever thought in mid September that the Warriors would still be playing football now.
Big East Lone Survivor Southern Nash will make a trip down I-95 and get off on exit 40. Grays Creek will be a stiff test for the Firebirds. If I recollect Southern has not made it to the third round since 1991. I do remember that distinctly. The second round matchup that year was against Hertford County and the game was played at Southern in a driving rain storm. Southern won 18-14. I was in the booth calling the game for Hertford County.
Speaking of Hertford County they have a matchup Friday night against Havelock our old Big East conference member friends. Hertford has won both playoff games without their starting quarterback who is recovering from hairline fracture in his shin. His replacement just threw five touchdown passes this past week against Western Alamance.
Thanksgiving on this blog we will give you the top ten games of the decade in Gryphon football.
How about Edgecombe County: All three high schools are still alive in their divisions.
Just maybe the biggest game in the state Friday night will be played in Pinetops. Two time defending State champions Reidville will make a visit to rural Edgecombe County to take on SouthWest Edgecombe. The winner here will be the odds on favorite to win it all in two more weeks.
Tarboro as a number six seed has a home game Friday. Whiteville upset First flight and as a seven seed will travel.
North Edgecombe hits the road for the first time traveling to Jones County. who would have ever thought in mid September that the Warriors would still be playing football now.
Big East Lone Survivor Southern Nash will make a trip down I-95 and get off on exit 40. Grays Creek will be a stiff test for the Firebirds. If I recollect Southern has not made it to the third round since 1991. I do remember that distinctly. The second round matchup that year was against Hertford County and the game was played at Southern in a driving rain storm. Southern won 18-14. I was in the booth calling the game for Hertford County.
Speaking of Hertford County they have a matchup Friday night against Havelock our old Big East conference member friends. Hertford has won both playoff games without their starting quarterback who is recovering from hairline fracture in his shin. His replacement just threw five touchdown passes this past week against Western Alamance.
Thanksgiving on this blog we will give you the top ten games of the decade in Gryphon football.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Bits And Pieces
I don't know if you saw this on channel five sports Thursday night or not but the "Extra Effort Award" winner last week was Mary Katherine Price from Fike. Most of the time when any athlete is high lighted it is because of athletics. Prince not only is the the best tennis player in the conference but she has never had a grade below an A in high school. She is the president of three clubs at Fike that she is in. I recommend going on line and viewing this story. It is a good one.
Both Hunt and Rocky Mount soccer teams lost to Jacksonville by 5-0 scores in the soccer playoffs. Jacksonville lost on Friday in the semi-finals in the state by a 2-1 score. Good grief. How good do you have to be to win a state title.
The State 2-AA football championship may be played in Pine Tops Friday night. SouthWest Edgecombe host Reidsville the two time defending champion who has won 45 in a row. I think
Sandra Langley probably needs to get with Mike Gainey and move that game to the RMAC. There could be 10,000 there for that game and with their field in a mess that might be a good move.
Terrell Hudgins regular season career came to a close Saturday as he keeps adding records. He had ten catches for 144 yards which is the 28th time in his career he has had at least 100 yards in a game. He caught a touchdown pass for the 33rd time in a game. Thinking back, I don't think he has played in but 42 games. If you remember he broke his foot and missed I think two games his freshman year.
He will play at least one more as Elon meets Richmond in the first round of the division one FCS playoffs at Richmond.
Appalachian State is back to try to retake the title Richmond won last year.
North Carolina meets N C State Saturday with the Chic-fil-A bowl on the line for the Heels. This will be a game of two defenses. One (Carolina's) has gotten better while States defense can't stop anybody.
Michigan losing to Ohio State Saturday finished 1-7 in the Big Ten.
I would suspect Tim Tebow will win the Heisman Trophy but I think this is a year that any body could win it. Voting for the Heisman is like voting for the top twenty each week. If you don"t see them play, how can you vote for or against anyone or team?
New Orleans and Indianpolis remain unbeaten in pro football. I just don't think Indy will make it to the Super Bowl.
Look what happen to Oakland when they put an average quarterback in the game. They finally gave up on Russell and won. If they keep their defense and get at least an average quarterback next year they could be trouble for San Diego in the AFC West.
Thursday we will high lite the top games of the decade in Gryphon football.
Both Hunt and Rocky Mount soccer teams lost to Jacksonville by 5-0 scores in the soccer playoffs. Jacksonville lost on Friday in the semi-finals in the state by a 2-1 score. Good grief. How good do you have to be to win a state title.
The State 2-AA football championship may be played in Pine Tops Friday night. SouthWest Edgecombe host Reidsville the two time defending champion who has won 45 in a row. I think
Sandra Langley probably needs to get with Mike Gainey and move that game to the RMAC. There could be 10,000 there for that game and with their field in a mess that might be a good move.
Terrell Hudgins regular season career came to a close Saturday as he keeps adding records. He had ten catches for 144 yards which is the 28th time in his career he has had at least 100 yards in a game. He caught a touchdown pass for the 33rd time in a game. Thinking back, I don't think he has played in but 42 games. If you remember he broke his foot and missed I think two games his freshman year.
He will play at least one more as Elon meets Richmond in the first round of the division one FCS playoffs at Richmond.
Appalachian State is back to try to retake the title Richmond won last year.
North Carolina meets N C State Saturday with the Chic-fil-A bowl on the line for the Heels. This will be a game of two defenses. One (Carolina's) has gotten better while States defense can't stop anybody.
Michigan losing to Ohio State Saturday finished 1-7 in the Big Ten.
I would suspect Tim Tebow will win the Heisman Trophy but I think this is a year that any body could win it. Voting for the Heisman is like voting for the top twenty each week. If you don"t see them play, how can you vote for or against anyone or team?
New Orleans and Indianpolis remain unbeaten in pro football. I just don't think Indy will make it to the Super Bowl.
Look what happen to Oakland when they put an average quarterback in the game. They finally gave up on Russell and won. If they keep their defense and get at least an average quarterback next year they could be trouble for San Diego in the AFC West.
Thursday we will high lite the top games of the decade in Gryphon football.
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