Keep Your Eye on the Ball: The Stuart Scott Story

It's finally time bros. The wait is no longer. I am about to let you guys in on a little secret that every sports fan wants to know. This untouchable gem of information is not only a great piece of knowledge to pass down to the children; but is the next big icebreaker, pick up line and family dinner conversation piece. It's a question that every single sports fan has asked themselves 1000 times. Ready? The question is: What the hell happened to Stuart Scott's eye?! Is it lazy? Is it glass? I don't know, but it stares at me half the time and my dad across the room the other half. Stuart Scott is such a bro, but unfortunately loses some credit for how he became Snake Eyes Scott.

Scott has had eye problems his entire life but he didn't become an eye sore (awesome pun) until 2002 while doing a story for ESPN. Scott was out participating in the New York Jets mini camp to show viewers the life of a NFL player during camp. Scott was participating in wide receiver drills and was supposedly not to shabby until he had to take a turn with the Juggs Machine. God damn the Juggs Machine. The speed spitting, anchor hating monster, is something we've all seen; it's used in baseball and football to shoot balls at high speeds. Scott went up to the machine and stood way to close and got rocked square in the eye with a football. He immediately fell to the floor. He required over 10 eye surgeries after the incident and it is still in fact his real eye.

I can not believe that warlock is his real eye. Either way, I am so relieved and a little disappointed that I now know how Scott received his wandering eye. I mean, I have an easy way to start conversation at the bar, "Yo Girl, you know Stuart Scott's eye? Yeah, I know what happened to it", but the magical lore of not knowing is just gone. It's bittersweet. Well, now all of you finally know the truth of Stuart Scott; he just couldn't keep his eye on the ball.

-Broverload

Josh Elliot: The Ultimate Bro Traitor

Former "SportsCenter" anchor, Josh Elliot, left ESPN this month to be the new host of ABC's, "Good Morning America". Elliot joined ESPN in 2004 as a guest panelist for "Around the Horn" and "Jim Rome is Burning". Making his mark on sports fans around the nation, Elliot quickly became the morning co-host of the number one watched show, "SportsCenter" just four years later. ESPN bids Josh a nice farewell and good fortune at his new job.

Josh Elliot what the hell is wrong with you?! You had the greatest job in the world and threw it away for what? Sipping morning coffee with the girls, discussing your monthly cycles? I'm ashamed. Your job consisted of delivering sports to the world with some of the hottest middle aged co-anchors (Hannah Storm) and hanging out with everyone's favorite athletes. People would have killed to be you, but that's all gone now. I hope Sam Champion and the gang welcomed you with open arms because you will never be welcomed back into the sports world. I almost looked up to you bro, almost.

Josh I wish I could bid you farewell but instead I just have to shake my head and wonder why. Why give up every sports fans dream? If Good Morning America is really all you've ever wanted then I feel sorry for you and your family. The ridicule your children must be receiving in school has to be off the charts. While you've baffled me, I'm sure stay at home moms around the nation are cheering for you. You had it all, Ultimate Bro-traitor.

-Broverload

Beadle Vs. Andrews, Who Ya Got?

 First, let's talk looks...

If you watch a considerable amount of ESPN, then you get your fair share of Michelle Beadle.  Especially with the free time in college, I could watch the same SportsNation a few times in one day.  With that said, Beadle is starting to look old, and I feel like I don't see enough of Erin Andrews.  There's no doubt the 35 year old's body still has some talent left. 

By not slipping a peek at the infamous Erin Andrews reverse peephole video, you aren't really missing much (but come on, you've gotta watch it).  There's no doubt the body is there, but the details aren't, and I'm not yet desperate enough to dissect it for some.  With or without the details, EA, the 2007 and 2008 award winner for Playboy's Sexiest Sportscaster, takes the prize.  Not only is Andrews proven (shown by her bikini pics), but Nobody gets bitched out when she comes on air.

Leading to the next topic, TV skills...

Michelle Beadle and Colin Cowherd are teamed up for ESPN's SportsNation.  In this case, Cowherd actually hurts Beadle.  I don't usually mind listening to Cowherd, but often he makes an analysis that any typical sports fan that has never played a sport in their life would make, a stupid one.  Maybe that gives Beadle some justification for the attitude on air, I'll accept it.  Cowherd's questionable views leave the door wide open for Beadle most of the time, but rarely do I see her killing it, she gets the job done, but without style points, or a challenge.  I can't say much about her days working as the New Jersey Nets sideline reporter, who honestly watches Nets games on the YES Network anyway?  Plus, Beadle is a Jets fan, not helping her case.

Even while she was in school at Florida University, Erin Andrews was in the spotlight as a 3-year member of the Gators basketball dance team.  Not a bad start.  Since joining the broadcasting scene in 2000, EA has reported for nearly every sport including, hockey, different levels of football and baseball, and even the Outdoor Games.  She matches the knowledge Beadle about the wide world of sports, making for a tight race.  She currently hosts College Gameday, and acts as a Good Morning America correspondent, beating out Beadle in the TV credentials category.  Plus, she's not a Jets fan, any other team is better.  Andrews wins the edge again.

The Outcome...

Big Bad Beadle puts up a killer fight in this heavyweight faceoff.  Yes, Beadle's rebellious affair with ESPN's NHL analyst Matthew Barnaby (who is in the midst of a divorce and assault charge) sparks some interest, and might point to her as being the more exciting option.  But in the end, EA takes the crown as the safe, sexy sports broadcaster, banging out the win Every. Damn. Time.  But then again, Beadle does bite the hell out of that hot dog...

What do you think Bros?  Vote 1 Star for Beadle, Vote 5 Stars for E-Andrews.

Ray Lewis Claims Crime Will Rise if Lockout Continues...Didn't He Murder Someone?

In a "candid" interview with ESPN's Sal Paolantonio, Ray Lewis made a claim that crime will rise if there is no NFL season in 2011. He stated that, "people live through us...watch how much evil, crime will rise up if you take away our game".

Uh What? I hope I was not the only bro holding back tears of laughter after hearing this come out of Ray Ray's mouth. Yup, you're right Ray. Since there is no NFL this year I think I may go out an rob a few banks, maybe even sell a little dope. No wait that's way to miniscule, maybe I'll just be accused of murder like you, since I live through you and all! Forget school, forget work, there's no football so what better to do then become a criminal!?

Just because you're a self centered maniac does not mean the rest of us are. Yeah, we all love football Ray, but I am not about to go pull a hit an run because the NFL's in a labor dispute. Ray Lewis, if you want people to really live through you, maybe you should just keep your mouth shut. Oh, and holding back on the murder chargers couldn't hurt.

The First and Last Mock Draft I Will Ever Create

1. Cam Newton - QB - 6'5" - 248

Analysis: The pick is risky, and not until a month or so was Cam Newton even projected as a top 10 pick.  However, if the Panthers plan on competing within the division against teams bearing the arms of Drew Brees, Matty Ice, and Josh Freeman, they will need a quarterback with more upside than the likes of Jimmy Clausen. Newton is worth the risk here.
 

2. Marcell Dareus - DT - 6'3" - 319

Analysis: The Broncos have made it public that they are not planning on making Tim Tebow the quarterback of the future, giving Blaine Gabbert some thought here.  But, it's too high of a pick to use on Blaine Gabbert when the Broncos clearly have larger demands. Dareus will provide instant help for the league's worst defense that sacrificed the most points per game (29.4), and more yards against per game (390.8).

3. Von Miller - OLB - 6'3" - 246

Analysis: Even though the Bills desperately need a franchise quarterback that can learn under Harvard man Ryan Fitzpatrick for a year or so, it just makes too much sense to take Miller to fill a pass rushing void that has been vacant for years at outside linebacker.  He's an athletic freak, good character, and an can provide immediate impact.  Look for the Bills to target QB Christian Ponder in the 2nd, and possibly trade into the 2nd round for another spot to snag TE Kyle Rudolph. 

4. Blaine Gabbert - QB - 6'4" - 234

Analysis: Chad Johnson/OchoCinco is still blowing Twitter up, and is said to be "too hurt" to return.  Since the knee injury in 2006, Carson Palmer has looked very old and been extremely inconsistent.  Now Carson is starting drama, looking to follow Chad out of Cincy.  Don't expect the Bengals to take the risk of having Carson's younger brother Jordan Palmer take the reigns of the team.  The Bengals draft Blaine Gabbert as the new face of the franchise, and enters an offensive situation filled by young talents Jermaine Gresham, Andre Caldwell, Jordan Shipley, and Jerome Simpson.

5. Patrick Peterson - CB - 6' - 219

Analysis: As well as I can picture Blaine Gabbert as a Cardinal, they get screwed out of a chance to turn the offense around for Larry Fitzgerald, who is steadily growing impatient.  If the Cards don't trade down the draft board to later take QB Andy Dalton, or QB Ryan Mallett, Arizona addresses the defensive backfield.  By selecting CB Patrick Peterson, whom many consider to be the most talented player in the draft, the Cardinals now have an excellent tandem with Peterson and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
 

 

6. A.J. Green - WR - 6'4" - 211

Analysis: The Dog-Pound would really enjoy some pressure on the opposition's QB, but they would love for Colt McCoy to have a target to throw to.  Peyton Hillis doesn't need to touch the ball over 300 times, and A.J. Green fills the void that Braylon Edwards left behind 2 years ago.

7.  Andy Dalton - QB - 6'2" - 215

Analysis: This will absolutely be considered a reach, but Dalton is the most proven winner in the draft.  The way I see it, the 49ers have a very good defense, and almost all the necessary pieces for a fully feared offense for any defensive coordinator.  New Head Coach John Harbaugh is ready to guide Dalton, who has all the tools except red hair to be great, to a successful career.  Frank Gore on the ground, Dalton throwing to Vernon Davis/Michael Crabtree, and a defense led by LB Patrick Willis.  What's attractive about facing that team?  Nothing.  This is the pick for the 49ers if they are unable trade down to scoop up Dalton, the problem is that only draft picks can be traded draft day.

8. Robert Quinn - DE - 6'4" - 265

Analysis: The Titans haven't seemed to have that big pass rush presence ever since Jevon Kearse's departure.  Despite knee concerns, Tennessee takes the best player on the board, DE Robert Quinn.  With Kerry Collins being and old man, and Rusty Smith with no future past backup QB, both Jake Locker and Andy Dalton have skyrocketed up draft boards, leaving both as a reach, but a possibility here.

9. Tyron Smith - OT - 6'5" - 307
Analysis: Unless Jerry Jones would like to see his precious Tony Romo walking the sidelines again next season, he'll be sure to revamp the long overdue offensive line.  The 2-year starting RT for USC still has room to grow, and the athleticism to become an excellent LT in the NFL.  Blindside, check.

10. Prince Amukamara - CB - 6' - 206

Analysis: Julio Jones is the sexy pick here for Mike Shanahan, and it may end up being the pick in the end.  But what's a team without defense? The 'Skins will pick Amukamara to help stabilize the poor defensive backfield with DeAngelo Hall. Nick Fairley is another possibility here, but the last thing Washington needs is another temperamental DT.  I expect another very mediocre draft from a team having only 2 picks in the first 4 rounds.

11. Julio Jones - WR - 6'3" - 220

Analysis: After consistent inconsistency from Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter, it's evident that Andre Johnson needs a wingman at the number 2 receiver slot.  While it is not the Texans' biggest need by any means, they are not prepared to take a chance on potential one-year wonder Nick Fairley at DT.  Character issues don't help his cause. The Texans continue to possess one of the league's most potent offense's and will look to address the defense for the remainder of the draft/free agency.  Jones is too good to pass up for the Texans.

12. Ryan Mallett - QB - 6'7" - 253

Analysis: A mutual interest has been shown between Donovan McNabb and the Vikings, leaving the Vikes with a big decision whether or not to draft their biggest need or not.  It's way to risky to take the chance that they may or may not have a solid quarterback next season.  Despite character and drug addiction questions, Ryan Mallett goes to the Vikings.
 

13. Akeem Ayers - OLB

Analysis: After a poor 40-yard dash showing at the NFL Combine, Akeem Ayers has turned into  more of an inside linebacker.  The Lions don't think so.  With hopes that Ayers can improve his speed and instincts, Detroit selects this outside linebacker who can rush and play back in coverage, filling a gaping hole in the defense.

14. Nick Fairley - DT - 6'4" - 291

Analysis: Character issures aside, this is a perfect fit for the Rams and Fairley.  St. Louis is lucky to find Fairley slipping this far, and won't ignore the athleticism they need up front that can add pressure on the quarterback and plug running gaps. Fairley could be the steal of the draft for the Rams. 

15.  Mark Ingram - RB - 5'9" - 215

Analysis: The Fins have a number of needs to fill, but there is no way they pass up the chance to find their future running back that can make an immediate impact, especially with aging running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams becoming free agents.  Plus, if Miami does not draft Ingram, the Patriots will, and the last thing the Dolphins want to see is the inner-divison rival New England Patriots adding a running game to their repetoire.

16. Ryan Kerrigan - DE - 6'3" - 267

Analysis: Kerrigan is a guy who will probably be available at 16. His well documented work ethis, leadership skills, and statistics make Ryan Kerrigan a great fit, completing the defensive line reconstruction for the Jags.

17. Cameron Jordan - DE - 6'4" - 287

Analysis: Jordan will be a great selection for the New England Patriots here... if they don't trade the pick.  If the Pats manage to keep their pick at 17, look for Bill Belichick to find his replacement for Richard Seymour.  Da'Quan Bowers is tempting here, but why chose an injury riddled DE when there is a healthy DE that fits the Patriots system well?

18. J.J. Watt - DE - 6'5" - 290

Analysis: The Chargers add some Wattage with the addition of the standout Wisconsin DE.  As a guy who can reach the quarterback from the inside or outside, Watt will provide an instant pass rush for the Chargers.  Also, keep an eye open for Watt on special teams, he blocked 3 kicks in his last college season.

19. Anthony Castonzo - OT - 6'7" - 311

Analysis: The G-men need to bolster an offensive line that has been successful for years.  The problem is that the Giants allowed the O-Line to get too old.  In a draft class with very few excellent offensive line prospects, adding a tackle is a must as I find it hard to believe New York's veterans will remain healthy the entire year.

20.  Da'Quan Bowers - DE - 6'3" - 280

Analysis: With a defense that has many holes, the Bucs will begin by selecting a DE, and if Da'Quan Bowers is still on the board at number 20, Tampa Bay will be the one's to select him.  If the knee holds together, this pick can really prove to be vital to the Buccaneers for years to come.

 

21. Nate Solder - OT - 6'8" - 319

Analysis: Before QB Matt Cassel gets another target on offense, an upgrade at either of the offensive tackle positions is the priority.  In a relatively weak class for offensive linemen, the Chiefs will grab one when they can.  Just imagine the things that Jamaal Charles can do behind an even better line than he had last year.

22.  Gabe Carimi - OT - 6'7" - 314Analysis: Time and time again Carimi proved himself among the best defensive ends in the Big-Ten againt numerous potential first-round picks.  At pick number 22, the Colts get great value in Carimi, and begin a youth movement for the offensive line.

23. Jimmy Smith - CB - 6'2" - 211

Analysis: The Eagles have spent a lot of time investigating Smith's character and I'm convinced that they believe that Smith is too talented to let pass. The Eagles need cornerback help, but if Smith is gone, they will look at a right tackle or right guard.  Smith will add some nice depth to Cornerback for Philly, and will be able to step in mid-way through the season if the inconsistent Dimitri Patterson struggles.

24. Adrian Clayborn - DE - 6'2" - 281

Analysis: The Saints would love if Anthony Castonzo slipped this far, but at this point he will likely be unavailable.  New Orleans are finally able to upgrade their pass rush with Iowa standout Adrian Clayborn.

25. Jake Locker - QB - 6'3" - 231

Analysis: More and more Seattle's offense is looking bleak.  There is a need for offensive linemen in Seattle, but the real question is, who will throw the ball?  Whether the Seahawks lose Matt Hasselbeck to free agency or not, there is no quarterback of the future on the 'Hawks.  Seattle selects local boy Jake Locker with the 25th pick in the draft, who may end up being the best quarterback in this draft class 5 years down the road.

26. Cameron Heyward - DE - 6'4" - 294

Analysis: Cameron Heyward was extremely productive for Ohio State, and will continue that trend in the NFL barring any injuries.  Heyward is a versatile 6'5", 294 lbs with the ability to play any position on the defensive line.  The Ravens love drafting monsters for their front seven, and they do it again here, adding yet another threat that can get to the quarterback.
 

27.  Torrey Smith - WR - 6'1" - 204

Analysis: With Tony Gonzalez entering what is perhaps his final year of his career, Notre Dame's Kyle Rudolph makes a lot of sense here.  What they need first is a smart, hard-working, high character wide receiver to play opposite of Roddy White.  They get all of the above with Torrey Smith.  Look for the Falcons to target a TE such as D.J. Williams on day 2 of the draft.

28. Mike Pouncey

Analysis: Another value pick for the Patrs if Pouncey still is on the board. The Patriots must stabilize their aging offensive line. This may be the steal of the draft if Pouncey is still there at 28, if not, they may use this pick in a trade for more picks.

29. Jon Baldwin - WR - 6'4" - 228

Analysis: For as long as I can remember, the Bears have been thin at Wide Receiver.  This year, Chicago finally addresses the issue and gives Jay Cutler tall option for jump balls near the red zone.

30. Aldon Smith - DE - 6'4" - 263

Analysis: The Jets were hoping to snag Jon Baldwin in the number 30 slot, but decides to address the need for a pass rush on defense.  Between Rex Ryan's coaching and Smith's tools, he possesses the potential to become an elite pass-rusher in the NFL.  This would be a great replacement for Jason Taylor and would help Jets fans forget they ever picked Vernon Gholston.

31. Derek Sherrod - OT - 6'5" - 321

Analysis: The Steelers are devastated to see the New England Patriots select Mike Pouncey, who Tomlin had hoped to reunite with his brother Maurkice Pouncey on the offensive line.  Instead, Pittsburgh makes a very smart selection in Derek Sherrod to bolster the OT postion that needs help.  Rashard Mendenhall will certainly appreciate it.
 

32. Justin Houston - OLB - 6'3" - 270

Analysis: With many hopeful draftees off the board already, the Pack fill a need at OLB with an undersized DE.  Houston possesses explosive strength and speed, just what Green Bay is looking for at outside linebacker. If the Packers decide to go in a different direction with their first pick, keep an eye on Sam Acho out of Texas in the second round, a very good player that could fly under the radar.


I started this mock last night, and once I realized what I got myself into, it was too late to turn back.  Thanks for checking out my first, and last NFL mock draft.

Buffalo Bills Jersey Leaked in Madden 12 Promo Video

The last time the Buffalo Bills released a new jersey design came in 2002, and to say the least, it was a disappointment.  9 years later with very little of the same management remaining, but the same losing ways, the Bills announced another uniform change that will be an attempt to re-invigorate the fans and the team.

The jerseys are still set to officially be revealed to the public in an undated upcoming fan-appreciation event.  The time has come sooner than we thought. 

According to ESPN's Tim Graham:

"The helmets will be white with the blue charging buffalo and gray facemasks. Jerseys will have broad stripes on the shoulders instead of the sleeve bottom. Pants will be blue or white, the opposite of the jersey. Blue pants will have red-between-white piping. White pants will have red-between-blue piping.

Socks will have blue-and-white striped tops, and players will have the option to wear blue or white shoes as opposed to black. Belts are believed to be gray."

Only days before the Player to be placed on the cover of Madden 12 was released, EA Sports makes a big mistake.  Below are the home and away jerseys for the new-look Buffalo Bills that were shown in a trailer for next year's game, which has since been removed from EA's website, and Youtube.  The fact that they were removed within hours, providing some proof that the jerseys are legitimate.  Luckily, the action shots of the video were captured by a writer for BuffaloRising.com.

With the pressure of the Bills drafting 3rd overall tomorrow, and after all the busts the past few years (Aaron Maybin, John McCargo, Mike Williams, JP Losman), I'm thoroughly impressed and relieved by the clean, classic uniforms.

What are your thoughts?



Sack Up

I'm relaxing in my room right now, just flicked the TV on to the Kansas-Kansas St. game.  It could be because I'm wiped out from the 'Cuse game, maybe it's that I have tons of work to get finished, or I just want to watch this game, but it's neither one.  My roommates are sitting in the living room on this snowy Valentine's Day, watching none other than "Valentine's Day". 

Some, especially females would say there's nothing wrong with that.  But there is so much wrong with that Bros.  What is this world coming to when Bros are watching a legit chick flick like this? It's not even one of those borderline movies that you can defend, especially with all the company being dudes.  The movie poster is a heart.  Need I say more?  Plus, there's a huge rivalry college basketball game on ESPN, a number 1 about to get knocked off.  This holiday is all about Hoes, it's time to sack up Bros.

Beast Mode Shakes Seattle

Seattle, the city that never sleeps.  Known for it's rain and earthquakes.  Many including ESPN's Colin Cowherd who is from the area are still anticipating "the big one."  There happens to be a Pacific Northwest Seismic Network monitoring station located conveniently in the heart of Seattle.

During the 67 yard run and display of how not to tackle, the station actually recorded seismic activity from the Seahawk's "12th Man", a blip on the graph.  In these clips Beast Mode treads to a touchdown that will go down in history as one of the best NFL Playoff runs of all time. 

This video is what the NFL is all about.  Everyone's drunk, everyone's pumped, and theres nothing better than seeing a long, powerful touchdown run in the NFL when you're drunk and pumped.  The 1st person commentary and view gave me goosebumps just thinking about the atmosphere, and what the upset win for the Seahawks means to the city of Seattle.  The fan, charliemac64 says it best, "Do we belong now? Who Dat? All that shit! Fuck you all! AHAHA!"  That's what I'm talkin about baby! Earthquakes and football, that's what Seattle does!

If the 'Hawks make it past the Bears this week, which is probably the best head-to-head matchup of the remaining teams in the playoffs for the Seahawks, the the opposition is going to have a hell of a time at Qwest Field in the NFC Championship game dealing with the 12th man that you see in the video firsthand.  Seattle better prepare for another quake if they overcome Chicago this week.

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, & Good Night

 

To be honest, I thought the Connecticut Huskies were going to win out and continue the streak into next year.  I guess that shows me how much I know about Women's College Basketball. 

After 90 games, the UCONN winning streak has finally been ended by the Cardinal of Stanford.  I also learned that the streak wasn't actually the longest in Division I NCAA sports as the Penn State Women's Volleyball team won 109 consecutive games.  So the UCONN Women's basketball team did not in fact have the longest winning streak in Division I history, which is claimed by the Nittany Lions. 

So i guess this means UCONN owns the longest Women's basketball streak.  Clearly its quite an honor in a sport with so many tight games, and the spotlight always shining on women's sports.  Any publicity the Huskies had is now nonexistent.

At least this means the ESPN network can take UCONN off ESPN 2 and maybe play a flashbacks of old college football games, which is guaranteed to generate more excitement and a larger viewing audience than any 5 women's basketball games.

A Christmas Story or The Celtics?

 

Every year my family has Christmas at my Grandparent's house.  Usually before and after we eat, there will be a bit of a scrum for power over the television.  I understand that it is Christmas, I can respect that, but "A Christmas Story" may be the most over-played movie every year even though its only played during one week each year.  It's a classic, yes, but we've all seen it... "I want a BB gun", "no", "his tongue is stuck to a pole", "we have a flat tire", "FUCK", "wash his mouth out with soap", "I want a BB gun", "I got a BB gun", "I shot my eye out", "the meal is burnt", "let's go eat chinese".  Yep, there you go.  Plus, who wouldn't rather watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation over "A Christmas Story"?  Chevy Chase is watchable year round, not just Christmas. 

Now, my Boston Celtics are on a 14 games winning streak, looking for 15 against the in-conference rival Orlando Magic.  This is certainly a game I can watch the highlights for on SportsCenter, but that's not acceptable.  You could've watched "A Christmas Story" all week, and if you didn't that's too bad.  You can't always get what you want, unless you take it for yourself.  Those remotes have Brobama written all over them.  Don't be afraid to take control Bros, take back what is yours, the television.