Ball or Nuthin' » Multi-Sport

Sporting Media to Blame For Hard Hits?

T Lamont — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:42:16 +0000

Over the weekend, any casual – or even non-casual – fan of sports was treated to a smorgasbord of NFL highlights.

But unlike the usual bevy of exciting clips, Sunday night and Monday morning highlight packages contained something a little more unnerving than what we are accustomed to seeing. The long bombs, spectacular runs and clutch performances were savagely interrupted by a few paralyzing hits made by defensive players on unprotected receivers. And, in this case, the term “paralyzing” is not only meant to describe the force of the hits, but also the potential outcome from the impact.

The helmet-to-helmet hits executed by Brandon Meriweather, Dunta Robinson, and James Harrison were among the concerning highlights that have been replayed since the day that they occurred.

But is the repetitive airplay received by the hits proving to be part of the problem?

Mark Schlereth (EPSN football analyst and 12-year NFL veteran) wants to give the NFL a new name – - “the NHL…the National Hypocrite League.” However, the issues surrounding this topic begin well before any of the players step foot on an NFL gridiron.

Every athlete in today’s professional sporting world grew up watching ESPN, SportsCenter, or something similar which would dazzle viewers with a taste of the best plays captured in the midst of all professional contests. Therefore, fans are witnessing a breed of athlete that has been conditioned to make “SportsCenter-worthy” plays.

This was a still moment from one of two malicious hits by Pittsburgh's James Harrison.

So, exactly what type of plays make ESPN’s flagship program?

Well, it’s probably easier to think about the type of plays that don’t make the program. Properly executed bounce passes won’t make the cut. Hitting the ball behind the runner to advance him to second or third base probably won’t be included. And if you tune in to the “Plays of the Week”, odds are that you won’t see a clip of a perfectly square, wrap-up tackle. Fans almost idolize the exciting players who make exciting plays.

Just take a minute to think about it from a procedural point of view. The process starts back in high school (and in some cases, earlier). Who gets noticed for their stellar play? The player who always blocks their opposing number? Or the player who scores the touchdown? How about the player who properly makes sure that the floor is spaced? Or are the rave reviews given to the team’s top playmaker and/or scorer?

We know what the answers to those questions are. The top scorers, the top playmakers, the top home run hitters always move on to the next level – and in most cases, it ends up being a reward for selfish (or non-team oriented) behavior. The most celebrated players get free rides to colleges and universities. Then the most celebrated players at that level move on to get a regular paycheck for their skills.

There is virtually no reward for fundamental play. In our athletic society, it only takes you so far…and then the SportsCenter effect comes into play.

So, can we really blame Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder for the following comments after learning that the NFL will begin t0 further discipline playersfor vicious hitting:

“I’m not going to run and hit a receiver and say, ‘OK, let me take my shoulder down to his stomach. I’m just going to run into him as hard as I can, which I was taught to do since I was 6 years old. Nobody’s going to change the way they hit. You can ask anybody in the league. The hell with it.”

“If they’re going to keep making us go more and more and more like a feminine sport, we’re going to wear pink every game, not just on the breast cancer months.”

While his comments are along the lines of what would be expected from defensive players, the truth is that most casual NFL (and non-Dolphins’) fans don’t even know who Channing Crowder is. If a relatively anonymous guy like Crowder has this mentality, it would be fair to say that it exists in the minds of defenders across the league.

Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson has honed his hard-hitting technique through years of competition.

The physicality of football makes it a sport that is unique in just about every sense of the word. The players have the ability to inflict serious harm on one another if they so choose. But why would they choose?

It’s easy to understand that there are players that may get under someone’s skin…or that a player may flat out not like. But for players to say that they have no regard for the well-being of other players is a big much.

The most fitting analogy that comes to my mind is that of a policeman. Law enforcement’s job is to protect and serve the public. In the line of duty, casualties happen. They happen to criminals, other cops and innocent victims. But would you ever imagine the police adopting an “I-don’t-care-who-gets-hurt-mentality” when it comes to executing their job? No. Even when apprehending criminals, they are to have regard for the well-being of the rule breakers as well.

Likewise, players have the ability to make the sound play each and every time. Let’s face it – if a defender is trying to hit an opponent in the numbers, he generally is not going to connect with his opponent’s helmet. However, if the player starts out high, the worst can happen.

When reviewing the footage of the infamous hits, it’s clear that Meriweather, Robinson, and Harrison all went specifically for the heads of their victims. Those represent calls that are easy to make, and culprits who should pay a high price for their foul intentions. And who really believes that Harrison is going to walk away from $22 millions due a tackle that may have been within the rules, yet blatantly belligerent? Not me.

At the very core of the NFL, football is still a game. A game that adults get paid to play at a high level. A game that athletes dream of playing for a living.

But the utter carelessness of the guys under the helmets is threatening to turn that dream into a nightmare.

There’s No Shortage of “Good” Athletes

T Lamont — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 18:23:49 +0000

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A couple of days ago, I came across an article highlighting the recent trend of sports heroes being disgraced by their actions, injuries, or general incompetence.

It was an interesting read. But what really caught my attention was the proclamation that – due to these occurrences - children are void of athletes that they can look up to in professional sports.

In that assessment, the author could not be any farther from the truth. While some superstar athletes have certainly had their share of blemishes appearing on their records, there are tons of professional athletes who may be flying just a tad below radar. The media circus always gravitates towards the headlines that grab attention – and rightfully so. However, a blanket statement that there aren’t any sports heroes encompasses an entire set of athletes…and we should definitely realize that there are plenty of competitors who are playing by the rules, not cheating on their significant others, staying out of trouble with the law and being productive citizens to the global community.

After all, isn’t that what being a role model is all about?

By my definition, the article that I read included a few names that I would not have – especially if the circumstances of diminished performance are a part of normal life. There hasn’t been a successful cure for aging. And who can be bashed for starting a family? The other things – actions related to poor decision-making – should indeed impact the hero status of that particular athlete.

Sure, Tiger Woods, Michael Vick and Alex Rodriguez may steal all of the headlines. But what about these big-time athletes:

Vince Carter – The guy who produced the most memorable dunk contest ever has been universally criticized for not giving his all on the basketball court. Well, maybe that’s because he saves a little so that he can give his all where it really counts. A highlight waiting to happen, Vince has always stressed the value of education, and he even walked the walk by almost missing a pivotal Game 7 in the playoffs to receive his college diploma. Carter has always been one of the most charitable people in sports.

Raiders' defensive wizard Nnamdi Asomugha has maintained an active role in his community.

Nnamdi Asomugha – Recently, most press clippings that mention the Pro Bowler are only referencing him as a part of a story featuring Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. You’d think that the defensive back who was regarded as the best in his position for three years – and who arguably is still the best – would get more media attention. But the public has learned not to expect that from a quiet humble team player who’s helping future students and athletes in his community, as well as people in his home country of Nigeria.

Albert Pujols – Now we all know how good ‘Fat Albert’ is on the baseball diamond, but he takes even more pride in what he does for others. The most feared hitter in the game has perhaps become the most generous giver as well. Among the many charities that he’s involved in, the three-time NL MVP has a foundation that assists children and young adults with Down Syndrome. Pujols is a former recipient of the Roberto Clemente award, which honors baseball’s most socially aware players.

These are a few athletes who represent the upper crust of talent in their respective sports. But most importantly, they are great people who are excelling at the most important game – - the game of life.

The Most Interesting Man in the World… of Sports

T Lamont — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 15:20:30 +0000

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Back in the 80′s, actor Jonathan Goldsmith made a living making appearances in some of the decades most watched shows. He guest starred in series like Knight Rider, CHiPs, Hawaii Five-O, McGyver, Magnum P.I., and The A-Team among others.

Nowadays, Goldsmith is better known as the most interesting man in the world:

While Goldsmith’s character seems to be something reserved for television and movies, there are some who are more likely to fit the moniker than others.

Let’s take a look at some of the athletes who fit the bill:

Tony Romo

The Cowboys quarterback seemingly came out of nowhere to become the leader of America’s Team in 2006. He went undrafted in the 2003 NFL Draft, but was signed as a free agent by Dallas almost immediately afterward. And now after four seasons of NFL quarterbacking under his belt, Romo is firmly entrenched as the guy expected to take Dallas to the next level. But if there’s one aspect of Romo’s life that has already ascended to another level, it’s his romantic life.

Romo has been linked to two pop music icons, Jessica Simpson and Carrie Underwood. The 30-year-old San Diego native appears generally unfazed by any and all criticism hurled at him. He simply keeps motoring on with his football team and his legendary Popeater status.

You know you got game when they make your jersey in fitted sizes for females.

Derek Jeter

The longtime shortstop for New York is a four-time Gold Golve winner. But long before he won his the first of his Gold Gloves in 2004, it was clearly evident that he knew exactly what to do with his hands.

Mariah Carey, Adriama Lima, Jessica Alba, Vida Guerra, Jessica Biel – his list reads like a who’s who of women that every guy thinks is hot. As stacked as Jeter’s baseball credentials are, his dating resume blows them out of the water.

In addition to that, he’s as athletic as they come – the type of athlete that would seem to excel at any sport. Jeter has been a pitchman for Nike (Jumpman series), Gatorade and Visa (just to name a few). He started the Turn 2 Foundation, which is aimed at helping kids avoid drug and alcohol addiction. Jeter even has his own wax figure in a Museum in New York.

Can anyone top that?

Tony Parker

Parker has been the type of player that draws the ire of every man. He jetted into the league late in the first round of the 2001 NBA Draft, and walked into three championships as the starting point guard of the team. Parker is only 6’2″, but finds a way to remain at the top of the list in points in the paint. In 2007, he married the hottest television actress on the hottest television series (Eva Longoria from Desperate Housewives).

At each San Anotonio Spurs home game, he gives 20 tickets to underprivileged youth. Parker is the France ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He has also released a hip-hop album.

Sports most interesting man? Makes you mad doesn’t it?

This would be a love triangle fit for someone who could be the most interesting man in sports.

Tom Brady

The New England Patriots QB is casually known as the husband of world famous supermodel Gisele Bundchen. Before that he was known as Bridget Moynahan’s boy toy. And prior to that, he had a thing for Tara Reid.

Need to hear more?

Brady was a sixth-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft, who didn’t play in his first year. But when he became a starter the following year, all he did was become the youngest quarterback (at the time) to win a Super Bowl. It would be the first of three Super Bowl victories during a decade in which Brady was the best game general in the NFL.

Brady’s career has been highlighted by his calmness under pressure. He has that undescribable character of always being able to come through in the toughest situations.

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World Cup: Brazil Stunned by the Netherlands

T Lamont — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 19:19:47 +0000

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In a game where very few points are scored, a one point lead can make all the difference.

And thus, the Netherlands shocked the soccer universe by scoring two goals after halftime to defeat number-one ranked Brazil, 2-1.

Brazil controlled the flow of the contest in the first half, getting out to a lead very early in the match. At the nine minute mark, Robinho blasted an attempt past Netherland goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg to put Holland up 1-0.

Brazil had more missed opportunities in the first half that proved to be critical. Holland’s Wesley Sneijder made Brazil pay. Sneijder scored the first of his goals in the 53rd minute, when he put the ball into the net to even the score at one. 17 minutes later, and following a corner kick, Sneijder scored again with a header.

From here, the Brazilians were left scrambling in attempts to get back into the game. The frustration began to mount as Brazilian midfielder Felipe Melo stomped on Dutch forward Arjen Robben, and consequently, was removed from the match. Amid a hectic amount of action to end the contest, Brazil was unable to score again – giving the Netherlands the biggest upset of the World Cup.

Holland moves into the World Cup final four, and will meet up with the winner of the Uruguay-Ghana match later today.

Ten Most Disliked Sports Figures??

T Lamont — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:51:03 +0000

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Fox Sports recently posted its “Top 10 Most Disliked People in Sports”…and in more than a few of their choices, they missed the mark.

Let’s review their top 10:

10. Gilbert Arenas

Now obviously, Arenas was a late entry…barely making the cut at #10, which Fox Sports may believe actually makes it legit. But I’m sorry – Arenas in no way deserves to land on this list. Throughout his career, he’s been nothing but a jovial prankster – - trying to live up to a reputation as a carefree rebel without a cause. Well, that finally caught up with him this fall, and suddenly – out of the thousands of notable sports related people – he’s one of the top 1% (or less) of disliked people. I’m not buying it.

9. Allen Iverson

This must be a lifetime achievement award, if you will. Iverson hasn’t done anything of importance on or off the basketball in a few years now. The last unlikable A.I. incident was probably when he beefed about coming off the bench for Detroit (and, as sorry as they are, who in their right mind wouldn’t have beef about that?).

Of course, Iverson has been reckless during his basketball career, being involved with guns, fights, unhappy relationships with coaches, etc…

He’s one of the pioneers of the urban, street style wardrobe that was adopted by many players in the late 90′s and early 2000′s. And the Hampton, Virginia native had others copying his cornrow patterns.

Cornrows and gangsta wear? I guess that image will last in people minds’ for years to come.

8. Alex Rodriguez

With his steroid admission only a year and some change behind him, A-Rod’s championship season did little to get the haters off of his back. He’ll always be remembered as the $252-million man – and the mega-contract only generated more critics (not fans). I even know some Yankees fans who don’t like him.

"What did I do to land on this list?"

7. Terrell Owens

What can you say about T.O.? Generally speaking, people don’t his light-hearted arrogance and creative showboating. I wouldn’t say that his hate factor is very high – but maybe this position is one that fits him OK.

6. Mark McGwire

The former Bash Brother was America’s sweetheart during the magical 1998 home run battle between him and fellow doper Sammy Sosa. But after not giving much comment during the steroids in baseball Congressional hearing, his star began to fade as if it were Big Mac’s batting average. Ironically, McGwire is looking much worse than his blabbermouth ex-teammate Jose Canseco – who admitted the baseball/steroids problem to anyone who wanted to hear it.

5. Jerry Jones

Jones is spurned by those who despise the Cowboys. Although he never does or says anything particularly newsworthy, just hearing him reverberate “How ’bout them Cowboys?!!” is enough to make some people want to place him on the 40-yard line and kick him through the uprights.

4. Tiger Woods

Once again, I’d say that this one is aptly positioned. Nobody would have saw this coming a year ago…but now, how will Woods become the crowd favorite that he was? Or will people be able to move past this incident at all?

3. Ben Roethlisberger

The road from being a hero to being a villain can be a very short one at times. But Big Ben has been building a villainous case for some time now. Roethlisberger can’t seem to pry himself away from the bar scene. It’s time for the organization to take a hard-nosed stance on Ben’s future with the Steelers. For now, Roethlisberger’s earned this spot in the infamous lineup.

2. Al Davis

Davis is too busy cleaning up the colossal mess that has become the Oakland Raiders. Davis has suffered through his bad decisions for a decade – seemingly with the next big hope being available in the upcoming draft. I don’t know why the guy would be disliked so much. Perhaps its the fact, that the Raiders have struggled for so long. Or maybe Oakland fans are the loudest gripers. I’m not sure, but a #2 position is definitely much too high.

1. Michael Vick

No surprise here – Americans love pets. Vick killed potential pets (or, if you will, his own pets). People will remember that for a long time. Unfortunately, there’s not much that Vick can do to get off of this list. Time is the only thing that can help him. And not going to parties where people who were linked to his infamous criminal activities are getting shot.

As long as dogs roam the earth, Michael Vick will have plenty of haters.

Who belongs on this list that wasn’t mentioned?

Kobe Bryant

It doesn’t matter if his Lakers just won their second of back-to-back NBA titles. People either like Kobe or they don’t like him – plain and simple. My wife, who probably knows 20 NBA players by name, can’t stand him. Bryant’s attitude borders on the edge of arrogance or extreme confidence, which will sway one way or the other based on people’s individual perceptions of him. Kobe’s a great player and, unfortunately for him, one of the most polarizing figures that the sport of basketball has ever witnessed.

Barry Bonds

How could Mark McGwire be on this list, but not Bonds? He’s generated so much hatred – mainly because anyone with a television set could have observed the increase in the muscle mass of his head. However, nothing has been proven against him – which infuriates those who hold baseball records to be sacred accomplishments. Bonds is the current all-time and single-season home run leader, and now that the cat is out of the bag (about steroids) his records could stand for some time. Someone probably punched a wall just from reading that.

O.J. Simpson

Long removed from the sports scene, Simpson is hating for nothing related to athletics. Nevertheless, he was a sports figure and is one of the most despised people on the planet. The public doesn’t usually like people suspected of killing other people – off of the gridiron, that is.