Warrior Sports News

Unplugged, condemned, checked out

2007-08-04T22:08:00.001-07:00

The end of the road is right here.

This blog is now cooked.

Done.

Dead.

Thanks for all those who consistently read this space. It was for you that I spent the time digging, thinking and writing.

I had hoped to begin chasing interviews again in the next few weeks on Colorado college and pro sports teams but I am silencing myself, for an indefinite period of time. It is highly unlikely, although I will never say never, that this space will be revived.

Personal and business issues are the variables that led me to the decision.

Thanks again for being the readership I respected and hoped to please with something different and interesting.

Please proceed to the exits in an orderly fashion and drive home safely.

Buffs absorb hit; Graham unknown

2007-08-02T02:31:00.000-07:00

Colorado Warrior

P.T. Gates, CU's hope for an electric breakaway back, is, as expected docked for the season due to academic deficiencies. The junior college star won't be lining up in the Buffs backfield because he lacks the progress necessary to be eligible. Gates is saying that he is firm on CU, thanks to the relationship he has with the coaches and his love of Boulder but he's young and who knows what might happen down the road. Losing Gates takes away the Buffs hope of added punch to its' offense, making it more dynamic. While there are other talented backs on the roster, Gates was expected to be an immediate impact player. His absence will be felt in games and truly, helping recruit other players. If he would have been successful, it would have stoked the interest of recruits for the next class. Coach Dan Hawkins had to take a chance on Gates. It didn't pay off, at least not yet, if ever, but it was a calculated gamble worth investing in.

Jesse Nading (pictured) doesn't believe the return of injured running back Kyle Bell to the team is the key to CSU reversing its' fortunes. The touted defensive end thinks the Rams have sufficient talent to win without Bell. Truth is Nading was not disparaging the rugged Bell with his remarks as much as he was avoiding excuses for any sub-par results this season but maybe he should have asked offensive coordinator Dan Hammerschmidt and quarterback Caleb Hanie what they thought about his statement on Bell first. Guessing that trio may have agreed to disagree because the reality is the Rams might be talented without Bell but they are better with him over the course of 11 games.

Daniel Graham, the former CU All-American tight end, and New England ex-patriot who is now a Bronco, is getting a lot of media stroking because he's a story of a local boy done good who came home. The given is that Graham will be the blocker Denver has lacked in the running game at the position, and a player who has winning intangibles but what is unknown is whether Graham can be the pass catcher at the NFL level that he was in Boulder. With Tony Scheffler being banged up, this is Graham's time to show his best to the coaches. That tandem potentially might be the best the franchise has fielded. The guess here is that Graham is capable of 50-600-6. His talent will only help a young Scheffler on many levels, from playing the game to learning how to be a pro.

Stephen Franklin, CSU's talented basketball recruit and an Aurora Central graduate has not turned himself in on charges of identity theft. It is difficult to imagine that this is going to turn out well and Franklin is going to have a long and memorable career in a Rams uniform. This is going to likely be a short story. Look for Franklin to end up at Backwoods U. once the dust settles and this is all ironed out, legally.

Bronco breakouts; Nelson surging

2007-08-01T00:08:00.000-07:00

Colorado Warrior on Pig

Three Broncos are predicted to bust out and big this season, according to the crystal ball of Dennis Dillon of the Sporting News. The names named are quarterback Jay Cutler, wide receiver Brandon Marshall and guard Chris Kuper. Cutler is an easy choice, as was Marshall for how he ended his season a year ago but Kuper's selection takes some stones. Only the insiders know of his quality college resume even if he didn't play at a school anyone knows much about (North Dakota). Matter of fact, the Broncos offensive line could be ready to start turning over with Kuper and 2007 draft selection Ryan Harris to blend with the aging center Tom Nalen and left tackle Matt Lepsis, coming off of injury.

First-round draft choice Jarvis Moss is visualizing and speaking Defensive Rookie of the Year to himself. The poor guy has no idea that he won't be playing Vanderbilt or Mississippi State in 2007. And maybe he should focus on building and keeping his body strong to prove his case. Point blank, the best rusher on this team is Elvis Dumervil. If Moss can mirror ED then the Broncos might have something goin'.

Early shots in the dark -- CSU signal caller Caleb Hanie and Air Force counterpart Shaun Carney are going to lay down impressive seasons in 2007. Both are experienced, more than capable athletically and driven to succeed. Hanie could even lead the Rams to a bowl game.

Wonder why schools like USC stack prep All Americans several deep at many positions while other quality programs struggle to get one all star to commit to their school? Outside of the prestige of saying you're a Trojan, Gator, Longhorn or Wolverine there is Memphis basketball coach John Calipari's approach to selling the deal. If a recruit hesitates on him due to the logjam of talent in the Tiger's program, Calipari questions if what he's doing talking with the kid, adding that good players don't worry about who else is in the program (Sporting News).

Rockies Rap

Aaron Cook again showed he is capable of being a shutdown arm with his performance Tuesday against Florida. What Cook, however, is not, but has been often written to be, is an ace. While he can flash like one at times, he is also quite undependable in that role. That is not beating down the man because what he is is still of great importance. Cook is a quality no. 3 pitcher on a staff, which is no slight and he's a top-level no. 3. Teammate Jeff Francis, who pitches like an ace frequently, is a rock solid no. 2 guy in a rotation. What this franchise needs is a no-doubt no. 1 or another Francis to take the next step towards being a playoff team.

Don't look now but the Rockies first-round draft choice in 2004 and development-slow poke Chris Nelson is becoming an exciting player. At Single-A Modesto, Nelson is controlling the strike zone, and producing extra base hits. His average might be a disappointing .280 but he has banged out 28 doubles, six triples and 14 homers while driving in 74 runs. The shortstop also has 21 steals. What this all says is exactly what the Rockies organization preaches, which is patience. If Nelson can duplicate his numbers next season at Double-A Tulsa, he might the future impact stick in the middle of the infield the parent club is desperate for, adding a feature that the lineup truly needs.

Rodrigo Lopez down with an injury, Jason Hirsh comes back from the Springs to replace him. Hirsh started fast then fell apart. He needs to be the quality pitcher he's capable of being for the Rockies to balance the rotation.

A pitching surprise so far from the 2007 draft class is Bruce Billings, a 30th-round selection from San Diego State, who has proven to be difficult to hit (28 knocks in 38 innings) and with excellent stuff (48 strikeouts and only five base on balls). Now, that is what you call scouting.

On the other hand, outfielder David Christensen, a second round pick a year ago, is still struggling mightily, hitting but .219 with three walks and 46 strikeouts at Casper in a rookie league, a sickly and similar repeat to last season. The question now has to be can he play at all?

Raiders back to basics; Celtics win and lose

2007-07-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

Daunte Culpepper and the Raiders is an excellent match. Culpepper, remember this, is the best fit as Oakland QB the team has had since Rich Gannon. Culpepper is big and strong, talented, productive and loves throwing the downfield ball. The only question for him is health. If he has it, his mind will be right. If the top overall draft pick in April, JaMarcus Russell, holds out for an extended period of time, he very well might become the next Philip Rivers, the San Diego Chargers QB, sidelining it for the first season of his career.

Just so you know -- Minnesota won the trade with Boston that sent "The Big Ticket" Kevin Garnett to the Celtics for five players and two draft picks. Garnett is a player of great skill, passion and pride, a Hall of Famer, but the word here is that Al Jefferson is becoming one of the better young forwards in the game, Ryan Gomes is underrated, Gerald Green has high-scoring ability, and then the Wolves also get two first-round draft selections. Especially considering Garnett wanted out, this was a treasure chest of booty for Minnesota. Boston, though, is not crying. Garnett will help them win more games and create more buzz for the team. Win-Win.

Rockies nap; Buff gets break; Outlaws

2007-07-31T01:17:00.000-07:00

Colorado Warrior

The trading deadline came and the Rockies took a nap. Maybe that's not a bad thing. If a quality deal was not available then why make a move just to say you did? This isn't Colorado's year anyway. The time to improve will be this offseason. Mark Teixeira was a name of interest that could have infused some explosives to the lineup but there is no way Todd Helton can be moved anymore. His value is minimal and his contract is an albatross.

Former CU star guard Jay Humphries is back stateside after the Suns brought him back to Phoenix as an assistant coach. The ex-Buff played with the Suns for three of his 11 NBA seasons. He's been coaching overseas for the last six seasons. Many CU fans wanted Humphries on new coach Jeff Bzdelik's staff but working under Mike D'Antoni in the desert will be a higher profile position to aid his future dreams.

CSU reserve defensive lineman Devin McWilliams is trying to get kicked off the team and out of school, in essence packing his own bags for a return home to his family's home in Los Angeles. McWilliams can give thanks that he was only arrested for disorderly conduct after bringing a pellet gun to a large house party. Now what would the dude need that for at a party. Nothing good could come out of such a decision. Rams coach Sonny Lubick has to be scratching his head wondering what to say to someone so dense. How do you reason with a player who is so obviously foolish. Like you would trust that cat to do the right thing on or off the field?

And Lubick isn't alone with his grief as basketball coach Tim Miles has to handle the negative publicity and talent hit he's going to take with incoming freshman Stephen Franklin having an arrest warrant with his name on it for identity theft, according to a report by KCNC-Channel 4. You earn a scholarship to get an education and play your favorite sport and then you go do something to risk it all and go to jail. Franklin isn't smart enough to go to college and isn't good enough to be a part of Miles' program. Maybe the long road will refine Franklin's arrogance and character.

Local writers are gushing over Rockies reliever Manny Corpas as if he's the answer as the team's closer. He's not. Corpas is a an intriguing talent with high-level potential, as an eighth-inning guy. He's been shutdown this season but his numbers haven't yet shown the ability to dominate. Remember, a year ago it was Ramon Ramirez who looked like like all that. This season, he got rocked early and ended up back in Colorado Springs until a recent call-up. That said, Corpas is indeed a key piece to the Rockies puzzzle to create a winner.

As Kyle Ringo of the Daily Camera reports, CU is getting that much needed makeover to its' sickly facilities, which will help the program now and become a point to sell not hide for future recruits. AD Mike Bohn is doing his job with positive tangible results to show doubters. With an improved product on the field in the next few seasons, the Buffs could have the rebirth they desire in the Big 12.

Walsh falls; Quinn losing; Bower a loser

2007-07-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

Bill Walsh (pictured with Joe Paterno), dead at 75. Leukemia wins, as it often does. Walsh was every bit the champion that Vince Lombardi or Chuck Noll was and as a trailblazer and one that transferred his greatness to coaches and players he was a diamond.

Speaking of Paterno, he had his chances to coach the pro game but said "no." In the right city, say Pittsburgh or Philly, with a quality general manager and talent procurer, Paterno would have stacked wins.

Browns rookie quarterback Brady Quinn holding out is dumb. Here's a guy who dropped like an anchor in the NFL draft to a city who is eager to love him and now he's going to wait around to sign a contract, thus risking the possibility of falling behind learning the system? Look, if you're a top 5 pick and you want to hold out, maybe it's tolerable but not when you are a selection in the later part of the draft and when the job is all yours if you just show up and play like you are capable. Guess a Notre Dame education isn't what it used to be.

Jeff Bower, Southern Mississippi football coach and Hall-of-Fame loser. Check the track record and decide for yourself. Bringing in player after player that mega-powers reject due to serious criminal charges says it all -- sell your soul at the crossroads to eat the leftovers off the master's table. Disgusting.

The Braves score and score big getting Mark Teixeira from the Rangers. If, and that's a big IF, Atlanta can re-sign agent Scott Boras, um, I mean Teixeira, the the Braves will have pulled off a trade that will keep their lineup loaded with power and production. The Rangers had to make the deal but in the end, truly, they got fleeced. Some value, just not enough. And way too much projection on the part of young players to get excited down Arlington way. Another example of why Texas is always Texas and Atlanta keeps winning.

Kevin Garnett will juice the crowd in Boston but with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen also wanting the ball, who becomes the no. 1 option, then no. 2 and 3? None of these guys seem likely to step into the shadows, do they? Some are already predicting the Celtics to be an Eastern power. Guess what? Don't see it. Give me team play, ala the Spurs, with one star and several quality players around him.

Look in the mirror, mom and dad

2007-07-30T18:52:00.001-07:00

Look next to you in the stands for fanatical parents.

Check out this little tennis phenom, Jan Kristian Silva, and you can predict where he's going to go.

Being a Tiger Woods-type success or Andre Agassi-like talent is the longest of longshots. Todd Marinovich might be more like it.

What is most humorous is how delusional the parents are that they are doing it all for their child.

They sense a potential gravy train when they see one, don't they?

They gave up their home and two cars to move to France for their 5-year old. Think about that. That's not necessarily love. That's being blinded by selfishness and the hopes of future riches.

Garnett moving; Pro's pros; TD no go

2007-07-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

Could Kevin Garnett become a Celtic after rumors past that KG wants no part of Boston? Yes, says a FoxSports.com report which says Al Jefferson and likely draft picks being the Celtics booty going to the Wolves. Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen make Boston a player out East (if defense doesn't matter to you) but only if the team can pass chemistry class (ask the Nuggets). Minnesota getting Jefferson and picks makes this a shrewd move on their part. Jefferson is younger, highly skilled and marketable if he doesn't work out in Minny. Getting picks sets them up for the future.

Cal Ripken, Tony Gwynn...Hall of Famers. Rare talents, even better professionals. Both were and are perfect ambassadors to the game, as they were committed to their craft and carried themselves with pride. The warm fuzzies for all inductees is not the same. Neither Ripken nor Gwynn are Ty Cobb, Pete Rose or other like chumps that are on the assistant principal's after-school detention roll call.

Ripken was the all-time grinder who mixed that resolve with talent to create the predecessor to the big and offensively-productive shortstop.

Gwynn never tried to be anything more than God made him, which was a premier base-hit machine. No attempts to go muscle bound and try to hit 30, 40 homers. Knowing who you are and being the best at that you can is success in of itself.

Word from the Sporting News is that Mark McGwire belongs in the Hall too. The publication asked 25 players their opinion and a whopping 23 said Big Mac did too much on the field and for the game off it and for too long to be ignored as honors worthy. Hey, the man was an unbelievable sight as a power bat, no argument here, but if he was in that gray area in getting an unfair advantage with his body then there have to be consequences, don't there? What kind of message do we send aspiring athletes ifMcGwire and eventually Sammy Sosa, Raffy Palmeiro and Big Head Bonds get enshrined despite their unsavory methods?

A reporter asked Bonds if there was a better hitter than himself in his high school lineup. Can you wrap that? Bonds, and no wonder he hates the media, said no one outhit him at Serra High School in Southern California and no one has been better than him at any level. How would you like to be the writer who asked that rookie-caliber question in front of your peers? Could you ever live it down? It's like the guy in office meetings who tries to hard to show off. Know that guy?

Jose Canseco says he has some goods on Alex Rodriguez. While Canseco is the ultimate stool pigeon he has shared truth before so A-Rod might want to be a little worried right now as Canseco doesn't mind selling out anyone and everyone.

Pig

Former OU star Adrian Peterson now has his contract, for $ 40.5 million, from the Vikings. That's the easy part of the equation. Him staying healthy enough to earn that money love is the challenge. With is history, the odds are against that happening.

Oklahoma and Notre Dame are talking about getting tangled up on the football field in a home-and-home series beginning in 2012. Progressive idea on behalf of the schools if it goes down. Those are the games fans want to see. Make it reality.

Other series the WSN would like to see would be Michigan and/or Ohio State against Texas and/or Oklahoma; Colorado against Penn State and/or Iowa; a rebirth of Colorado against both Oregon and Washington and a new series with Cal; Colorado State against second-tier or lower tier Pac 10 schools Oregon State, Arizona and Stanford. The Buffs finding an SEC dancing partner or two would also be attractive while hooking up the Rams with mid-to-low-level Big 10 schools, if agreeable, would be a good move.

One more series -- Notre Dame and it's network and money power against any NFL team. If you're going to act like a pro team, you might as well play one.

Tim Couch, back in the NFL, signing with Jacksonville. A flop as a number one overall pick of the Browns but capable if healthy and in the right offense. Is Jacksonville that place? Maybe. Couch is not Ryan Leaf-type arrogant or lazy so the WSN is in his corner hoping he can stick on the roster.

Hoops

Washington State did what it had to do -- reward excellence. It coughed up $ 800,000 a year to basketball coach Tony Bennett after he led the Cougars to a 26-8 record last season. WSU just doesn't have seasons like that and when Bennett made it happen he became a hot national commodity. Now, as good as Bennett is, he is going to be hard pressed to live up to that deal and make big things happen again. Recruiting to Pullman is not easy. If he can get enough athletes there and just get to the NCAA Tournament a couple more times, he'll be gone for a much more high profile program in say, three seasons. See Jeff Bzdelik, Air Force, for your evidence.

Colorado Warrior

Kiszla off the mark -- Terrell Davis is NFL Hall of Fame worthy, the columnist writes. We see it differently. Davis' dominance in his career was undeniable but too short-lived, both for Broncos fans and Hall of Fame consideration. If he would have been healthy and as amazing for 2-4 more seasons, then "yes," he would have been deserving and a lock to be inducted. Think of T.D. and you think of rugged, slashing, big plays and durability; a champion. He was the prototypical back and the standard for Broncos runners. Clinton Portis was more flashy, explosive and could have been a superstar had he kept his ego and money hunger in check here but he has not proven to be as mentally tough or as productive as Davis. Davis won't be elected as an all-time great but here in Denver he was and will always be remembered as such. It's a shame the Hall is not in the cards but injuries make this decision easy, even if painful.

The Broncos are giddy right now with hope of playoff success in 2007 and they should hold on to those good feelings. The reasons for the optimism start with Jay Cutler, work their way through the skill talent on offense, the return of Matt Lepsis at tackle and the recently stocked pond on the defensive front for new defensive coordinator Jim Bates, who is coach Mike Shanahan's latest roll of the dice to get an advantage on that side of the ball. Denver has big time potential to score and prevent scoring but too much has to go right for the Broncos to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl and the likelihood of all that lining up in some Cinderella story is nothing more than fantasy.

Denver needs help at wide receiver and Randy Moss was available at draft time. The powerful Patriots, of all teams, snagged him. The Broncos, however, did the smart thing. Terrell Owens was supposed to be a good soldier when he landed in Philly with Donovan McNabb and coach Andy Reid. Owens played well but was a cancer. Moss isn't Owens as a person but he's not a true professional either. Never was and never will be. The Broncos were wise in not upsetting team chemistry with the former Vikings superstar.

Former Broncos running back Tatum Bell is talking up his talent in Detroit, saying it doesn't matter when Kevin Jones returns, that the starter's job is his, not Jones. Bell is no longer a Bronco for a reason -- he couldn't stay healthy or prove himself the man beyond the shadow of a doubt. What makes him think things will be different in Detroit?

Boulder Fairview graduated quarterback T.C. McCartney going to LSU just doesn't seem right until you hear the Les Miles connection and the fact that the Tigers' talent base allows for a walk-on of McCartney's risky potential, while at CU, Dan Hawkins just can't take as many chances because his margin for error on the field is so much smaller.

As written here before, Forsberg ain't Forsberg anymore. The Avalanche might be interested in bringing back Pete but now word on the street is that the Red Wings, of all franchises, might be a destination for Forsberg. That might be too much to stomach for die-hard Avs fans. Of course, all this is worthless talk if Forsberg is not healthy. That said, him in Detroit is distasteful.

Former Rockies pitcher Jason Jennings is not marketing himself well for a big free agent payday by giving up 11 runs in two-thirds of an inning, as he did Sunday against San Diego. Maybe he should try fake being hurt, so as to not expose his shoddy work.

Last year I heard someone refer to Rockies catcher Yorvit Torrealba as Horrealba. Wonder if they know the guy, over the course of two seasons, has hit 12 homers and driven in 73 runs as a catcher in just 132 games? How many backstops have hit as well in a Colorado uniform?

Jeff Francis is living up to his contract, a rarity for a Rockies pitcher.

Ubaldo Jimenez, who the WSN is predicting to bomb out because of control and command issues, is embarrassing me right now with his highly competitive pitching. He's tough to hit, keeping the ball in the park and his strikeouts are overcoming the walks he issues. It's a good start. He has scoreboard on us for now.

Final Salvo

Clint Hurdle turns 50 years old today and Arnold Scharzenegger is 60.

Gulbis finally wins a golf tournament

2007-07-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

Natalie Gulbis can now be known for more than just her face and body. Winning means she is now more than just a desirable piece of cake in the minds of many.

Friday getaway

2007-07-27T02:34:00.001-07:00

Marcus Allen scored touchdowns with great regularity. That made him special. He was, however, not a great back. He, however, was loved for his, um, gifts by former O.J. Simpson honey and now corpse Nicole Brown Simpson (til' death do us part). Allen still believes he's got All Pro game but maybe he should realize his behavior he doesn't and he has some similarities to his former friend, the Juice.

More strange for you -- can't help myself, Kim Kardashian (pictured) is just wonderfully sexy but she ruins it all by also being SAD (stupid, arrogant and dangerous). I thought only men were so clueless about etiquette and judgment. This action deserved a Cat fight-tough woman-all-out brawl with profanity. To show up some place so inappropriately should be worthy of getting whacked or at least, getting your ass whupped!

Wonder if new NFL commissioner Roger Goodell knew he would be part administrator, part warden when he succeeded Paul Tagliabue. Yet, still it seems as if he is scaring anyone straight by tossing them into the hole. Maybe the deviants are too dumb to be frightened.

Colorado Warrior

Keep up, will you! Denver Post columnist Mark Kiszla asks if Broncos pass catcher Rod Smith is done. We've been over this, haven't we? Smith is toast, cooked, over. That body is wrecked. Great production, strong leader, respected, tremendous success story but the final lines of the final chapter are being written as we speak.

CU defensive back Terrence Wheatley has been named to the preseason watch list for the Jim Thorpe Award given to the nation's best defensive back (see Deon Figures and Chris Hudson). Wheatley won't win it because the guys in front of him aren't good enough to make him look brilliant but T-Wheat is about character, resolve and playmaking. He's someone to respect and admire for sticking it out and overcoming injury to excel. He's not as big as Figures or as talented as Hudson but at OU or UT he would be a future high draft pick. As a Buff, he will be good, just not an award winner.

Birthdays

Former Nugget Mack Calvin is 59, former Bronco Haven Moses turns 61 and former Rockies outfielder Tom Goodwin is 39.

Final Salvo

No Saturday or Sunday post this weekend. Look for a Monday shot.

Bonus Thursday Post

2007-07-26T16:31:00.001-07:00

Let's be honest with one another, o.k.? Michael Vick, for all his poor choices, is not going to jail. He will be suspended, eventually, for say, half a season and maybe more depending on how his court case goes but Vick is too famous, too rich, too much of an entertainer to go to the joint.

Skip Prosser's death while jogging a tough pill to take for Wake Forest and its' basketball program. The Demon Deacons will be an emotional mess this season because its' coach was reportedly well respected and liked.

The Army, like the police, protects its' own at all costs, morals and values be damned. So news that a retired three-star general might get demoted for issuing misleading information, aka a lie, in the death of former Arizona Cardinals player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman is jaw dropping shocking. This shows what a story that gets outed, picks up momentum in the media and turns into a forest fire can produce, on occasion -- justice.

Broadcaster Bob Costas takes the high road in response to Barry Bonds calling him a "midget man" while also questioning his knowledge of baseball. Costas only further shamed Bonds with that classy move. Of course, the question that should be asked is can you shame the shameless?

Mike Piazza was hit in the head with a half-full water bottle on an accurate throw from a fan. That fan was either smart or lucky that he didn't hit someone like Elijah Dukes or Kenny Rogers or a villain from the past -- Albert Belle. Piazza merely plans to file charges. Those other dudes would have literally killed the perpetrator.

A Villanova co-ed has declined to press charges against three incoming football players she says raped her. Take from that what you will but the strong probability is that this demands a hard investigation regarding intimidation or fear of the legal system shredding the girl's soul.

That said, the former prosecutor in the famed Duke rape scandal has admitted more in the event that rocked the school, community and earned national attention. Mike Nifong says there was no credible evidence against the three lacrosse players who's lives where turned upside down, inside out and trashed. Said it before -- Nifong deserves the prison sentence the players would have received if convicted. Contrary to popular belief, the justice system does have an element of being corrupt and abusing its' power and all parties exposed in it should be punished as any other liar and arrogant, Felonious Frank.

Schilling throwing rocks; Backs in the news

2007-07-26T00:07:00.000-07:00

Curt Schilling ain't never been shy. That's refreshing to see a player not afraid of speaking the truth. His latest rip job is on baseball cheaters and it is a masterpiece. Far better than just Schilling's Greatest Hits. In it, the Red Sox pitcher accurately says that if a cheater isn't denying then he's lying (about the truth) and that is an admittance of guilt. Barry Bonds is the prime, but not the only, target of Schilling's rampage and it is revealing yet again to hear Bonds rip broadcaster Bob Costas as "a midget" who is clueless about baseball. Classy as usual and inaccurate to boot but then again no one ever complimented the Giants slugger on being intelligent outside of identifying a pitch in his wheelhouse. Maybe we should have a test and see who knows more about baseball (Bonds or Schilling and Costas) and then also see if the future home run king can walk the walk over his mouth and apologize sincerely. Let's see the file, please -- Bonds -- cheater, liar, punk ass.

Priest Holmes is coming to Chiefs camp. Nice. A lot of fans will be there too. Neither Holmes or the people in shorts will end up on the roster come late August. Once the former Pro Bowl running back starts getting hit again, his body will scream "no mas" and he'll turn in his cleats and go home.

Nice to see the good people of Idaho representing themselves so well by racially threatening Boise State star running back Ian Johnson over his desire and plans to marry cheerleader Chrissy Popadics. Johnson is black, Popadics is white and I guess there is a law against such unions in some people's minds. Of course, that state is also known for racial and anti-governmental radicals, aka loose screws, so such a story is not much of a surprise. Maybe Idaho is the new ignorant, backwoods South.

I want to give Terry Frei of the Denver Post a big ol' hug after he called Michael Vick "a scumbag." Why? Because the more heat the NFL receives from the media and public the more it will not be able to avoid crushing Vick under its' power for his stupidity and inhumane involvement in dog fighting. People who hurt animals, as in torture, have issues, as that's where, we hear, serial killers get started often. Not calling Vick a future killer but his actions are not defensible if you live in or wish to live in a civilized world.

This season is one of the most memorable in baseball history. Not so much for what the teams are doing but for all the career milestones being approached or achieved by pitchers and hitters. The two latest -- Tom Glavine, win no. 299 and red-hot Alex Rodriguez, home run numero 499. The key point to all this goodness is the number of media chunks that theorized that with the money in sports these days players would not be motivated to stick around long enough, be hungry long enough to achieve hallowed numbers. Yet, there are old or old and hurt players still grinding and making history. Yeah, they love the money and attention but they also are passionate about the game and their place in it.

A UCLA assistant football coach -- Eric Scott -- has been arrested on burglary charges. Maybe he was just checking up on a recruit. Or forgot where he lived.

Steve Spurrier is back talkin' smack. The South Carolina football coach believes the Gamecocks now have "the groceries" to be top cock in the SEC. He is still facing the odds against the perennial powerhouses of the conference but with Spurrier nothing is impossible. Him fielding a top-10 team again could well happen. A national title contender might be too much to expect.

So, tell me if you will -- who cares one bit about the Tour de France? Most of us hardly noticed even when Greg Lemond and Lance Armstrong owned the race. Now that they tired of winning so much it becomes the same as the annual hot dog eating contest back East -- a novelty worth a blurb in the news.

Colorado Warrior

CSU AD Paul Kowalczyk is going to make CSU special. Count on it. The man just gets it. He thinks outside the box. He has a track record of success and he is bold.

Rams coach Sonny Lubick is speaking confidently these days about his team. Not loud and proud but self assured. You get the feeling he sees signs he's seen in the past when he had quality seasons.

"Realistic is what you tell your mind is realistic," CU coach Dan Hawkins said in a B.G. Brooks story in the Rocky Mountain News. If we were talking about anything but Hawkins' bowl game expectations for 2007 I'd think that was a great line. The reality is this though -- being significantly deficient in talent to most Big 12 schools is not something you can hide with philosophy.

Hawkins wants to find and name a starting quarterback as soon as possible. Look across the dinner table, coach.

Take a bow, P.T. Gates -- you're the only Buffs recruit who didn't cut it in the classroom. Learn the lesson. But to be fair -- I, um, had some "issues" at one time with acceptable academic standards too so we're brothers on that front. Hey, want to go play Madden?

The Broncos just signed rookie offensive lineman Ryan Harris, the dude who will be the best draftee from the 2007 class.

Aaron Cook was masterful in beating the Padres. It was a fluke. As was just written here, Cook has trade value and the Rockies should use it. Dealing him for the sake of dealing him would be foolish but to get help at the all-to-many holes the team has would be Warrior smart.

Word on the streets is Boston might again be kicking the tires on Todd Helton, considering a trade for the Rockies has-been. O.K., let's try to believe this ridiculous rumor for a moment while we sit on the throne and are a captive audience. Maybe the Red Sox are thinking Helton might be a fall-back guy for them if they can't make the big score on the trade market but come on, realistically, because of Helton's increasing appetite for money and decreased desire to actually earn it, neither Boston or anyone else is going to seriously want to date him and in the end, this is just worthless drivel to ponder.

BaseballAmerica.com is all over two Rockies prospects -- outfielder Seth Smith and pitcher Franklin Morales -- as hotties. Smith started slowly in 2007 but is scorching right now, showing his ability as a potential high-average stick. Morales is, as written here before, nothin' but a tease. Big arm but no star. At least as the starter he is now. As a reliever he could become a hammer if he can learn those two little things called control and command.

Stern humbled; NASCAR dope; Local dirt

2007-07-25T00:56:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's just me but it was nice, very nice, to see the pompous David Stern humbled as NBA commissioner with the outing of referee Tim Donaghy as a gambling addicted and also possibly doctoring on-court calls. Stern has worked hard to make the Association successful but his schoolmaster conceit over most matters rubs more than some fans the wrong way. He is heavy-handed and uncompromising and you have to wonder if he doesn't deserve the humiliation coming his way right now. Stern learned the hard way (join the club, brother) that he doesn't know it all, doesn't have total control and that a weasel as small as Donaghy can shoot a big giant hole in the side of the luxury liner known as the NBA.

Guaranteed all other sports are now taking a stronger look at how to even more closely monitor the officials and players who bet on and jack with their games. How this happened to the NBA is still a mystery. Doesn't the code require other officials to rat out co-workers who violate it, aren't there signs to those who gamble? Doesn't the league review game tapes, don't they see patterns, don't they wonder out loud at marginal calls?

The next revelation we need is to find which athletes are doing the same thing Donaghy is doing. How you prove that is a little more difficult but much more interesting and shocking. And is the relative lower-paid scrub with meaningful minutes or the star more likely to be on the take?

How much money is the NBA making if most officials are making six figures, as in as much as $ 300,000? Since when did that become a career in which you can live the life? Guess you can be a ref, get rich and be just as sleazy as a being a politician. That's a tough call for young bucks, isn't it?

NASCAR just might have to toughen up those drug testing rules after Craftsman Truck Series driver Aaron Fike was charged with heroin possession. Not alcohol, not pot, not cocaine. Heroin. Wow, that's the new "in drug" of the NASCAR crowd? Nothing like drivers going real fast while real high or playing with some fun that is real illegal. Fike has to be banned for life. Any pro racer should be kicked out of the sport for one offense, even if off the track, simply for poor discretion and poor public relations for a driving sport. How can you spin any impairment offense at the public and more importantly, children?

Poor David Beckham. The leading man of soccer is reportedly wetting panties of Hollywood starlets everywhere, including our favorite drunk easy, Lindsay Lohan, so much so that Lohan and her buddies have a big-money bet she can bend it like Beckham on David, taking him away, if only for a night, from his wife. What, Robert Downey Jr. wasn't available? What about Dennis Rodman? If Lohan survives another year of Girls Gone Wild it will be a miracle. She seemingly wants to kill herself with either an overdose or a car crash. She's crying for help. Where is her posse?

So, after Barry Bonds breaks Hank Aaron's all-time record for home runs will he retain the same drive to pile on that number until he reaches 800 or more or will he concede to his aching body and slack off, desiring more to ride off into the sunset than remain a major player in the long-drive contest?

Alex Rodriguez is Ken Griffey Jr. in his prime, before the injuries.

Griffey will surprise and remain moderately healthy the rest of his career and pass Willie Mays on the all-time homer list.

Brad Hawpe will not.

You don't think college coaches earn their money? Iowa State star guard Mike Taylor, who averaged 16 points and 4.5 assists per game last season, has been deleted from the team by coach Greg McDermott for the trifecta of stupidity -- stealing cough medicine, a vehicle registration violation and vandalism. Now, I feel for a guy who can't afford medicine but the other two brain cramps get no mercy. Losing Taylor is huge for the Cyclones and the coach shouldn't be punished for the on-the-court result unless Taylor came to town with a prior rap sheet.

Colorado Warrior

Bad news when Allen Iverson is trying to be the voice of reason. Yet there he is crying about athletes being picked on while defending Michael Vick to some degree. Yo, A.I., you don't get taken down for being rich and famous. You get chased for immature idiocy or felonious deeds. You learned the hard way and Vick is traveling that same rocky road now. You and Emmitt Smith should really steer clear of Vick. Yeah, he's a brother and all but he makes you two look Stephen Hawking smart.

Matt Holliday has stopped hitting, Kaz Matsui has done the same, Garrett Atkins has leveled off after a hot run and the Rockies offense is in first gear again. Ramon Ramirez, just called back up from the minors, apparently can no longer get big league hitters out. Colorado is a dysfunctional family right now.

The WSN has loved Matsui since he got to town but his lack of run production makes him a target for replacement. Aaron Cook could be moved out of town in a year when the used pitchers are mostly lemons. Cook has as much value as a lot of those stiffs. Pitcher Josh Fogg could be another surprise departure due to his moderate effectiveness.

If this space gets to play Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd, here are the pieces it is trying to move before the trade deadline.

Aaron Cook
Brad Hawpe
Josh Fogg
Rodrigo Lopez
Kaz Matsui
Seth Smith, if necessary
Joe Koshansky
Todd Helton (please!)

The no-trade list (names that could be brought up).

Matt Holliday
Garrett Atkins
Brian Fuentes

Despite many moves the Broncos didn't do enough in the offseason to be a playoff force. Denver will not be a pushover but this is no powerhouse team capable of winter wonderment.

Veteran safety Sam Brandon is going to be at the bus stop soon after the Broncos cut him due to his physical unavailability this season. Brandon never became the big-time popper the team hoped he would become after being drafted out of Vegas but he was a solid backup. If healed he could make a run at a comeback but the severity of his wrecked knee could spell T-H-E E-N-D.

Air Force will have a losing season under first year coach Troy Calhoun but in three years he will have the Falcons dirt tough and winning again.

CSU has a strong shot at going to a minor bowl game. Sufficient talent is there, coach Sonny Lubick is reportedly re-energized and there are potential playmakers on both sides of the ball. As said here before, good health and defense will be the key.

CU will be more rugged and successful this fall but will still get run over frequently. If the Buffs can still sell the dream on the recruiting trail with any sort of magic then next season could be the breakout the program needs to return to a bowl game.

Throw Bonds from the train; cancer victory

2007-07-24T07:56:00.001-07:00

Kimberly Bell (pictured), the former mistress of Barry Bonds, scored the biggest hit of her life with a Playboy interview and pictorial. She bashes Bonds in it, which is such a sweetheart thing to do, even if he is rogue, to someone she'd be nothing without. She wasn't complaining about him when he was with her for 10 years but now, after all that special attention and gifts, he is worthy, in her mind, as is typical in breakups for women, an all-out assault. For athletes and rich, powerful men, every woman should come with a Surgeon General's warning label. Not all of them prove cancerous but everyone of them has that potential of being financial and emotional dynamite.

Jon Lester, Boston's young left-hander is better known for being a cancer survivor but his rebounding to return to the major leagues and pitch and pitch well Monday is more than inspiring, it is amazing that he could look so good so early after returning to the game. Stories like Lester or Lance Armstrong are ones that get a national stage and hopefully show all of us that cancer doesn't have to be a death sentence. Yes, the wealthy can get superior care and don't have to worry about going bankrupt but victory over death is the point.

Michael Vick gets kicked out of training camp by the NFL while it does some digging on his dog fighting involvement exploits. This is not, um, how do we say this, going to end well. The Atlanta Falcons quarterback has to be made an example of by the league or risk a revolt when other players go loco. Vick will be hammered shortly. The players' union will protest. The league will win.

It's Wednesday. Do you know where Lindsay Lohan is? Adult or not, her parents need to leash that girl before she ends up dead or before she kills someone else. Lohan needs to learn the party doesn't always have to start with her.

Roger Clemens, victory no. 351. Funny, how all I heard was that The Rocket was just a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher at age 44. Dude is not invincible but he is not just another guy on the street corner either. He is still a quality arm, a no. 2 pitcher at worst who is capable of dominating a game any day. Forget calling him The Rocket. He's The Legend.

Greg Maddux lost an opportunity for victory no. 341 but 350 will be achieved and that, for a smallish, control pitcher is something else. He has to be one of the smartest, most aloof pitchers of all time.

Spotted: Sergio Garcia and Tim Donaghy having drinks, discussing going into hiding for a few weeks.

Colorado Warrior

CSU linebacker Ricky Brewer has been forecast to be the Mountain West Conference freshman of the year. Maybe Brewer is the next big thing on defense in Fort Collins. The Rams need another star to develop on that side of the ball. Brewer was a big pickup in recruiting for coach Sonny Lubick and if the hitter is focused and healthy he could prove to be as good as advertised.

Lubick also is hot for senior defensive end Jessie Nading and honestly, Lubick does need to be pumping him up as CSU could change their season dramatically with a little defense. The coaching staff is beggin' Nading to be special. Health and defense will be the biggest factor for this team in 2007.

Rams safety Zach Donaldson, son of the former Buff, Jeff, is impressing and with Klint Kubiak hurting, could see the field early. Donaldson is similar to Brewer in that he was a top-level CSU recruit, even if a lower-level everyone else recruit, who could pop big in Fort Collins.

Carmelo Anthony is professing "no more drama" in a Marc Spears interview in the Denver Post. Let's just say, as much as we love Melo that we're taking a wait and wait and wait and see attitude on that one. The Nuggets have talent, no doubt amigos, but the injury curse on that franchise and questionable chemistry are potential land mines.

WSN Big Bang Sunday Truth

2007-07-22T00:19:00.000-07:00

Sergio Garcia has the setup but can he keep his cool and ride it to victory at the British Open. History says it's a tossup with him. Yes, he's played at a high level at Carnoustie and has a three-shot lead over Steve Stricker and yes, Tiger Woods is far back in the rear-view mirror but there is this undercurrent that this famed tournament is not over, that Garcia will be challenged. That said, not only does he hold the lead he has been the most consistent player through three rounds. The question will be can he handle Stricker, Woods or another rushing him hard on Sunday?

Should Michael Vick be suspended for his Big Daddy dog-fighting involvement? PETA and others certainly see precedent for doing just that after the Pac Man Jones soap NFL jailing for conduct unbecoming a pro football player in commissioner Roger Goodell's kingdom. If a player's union couldn't stop Jones from getting pinched, Vick could also get detention. Jones was a stellar player but the Falcons marketing centerpiece going down would be even more huge, getting players' attention in every city, more so for the position he plays than his mega-watt name. Does the NFL have the guts to do the right thing? The WSN believes the league is thinking about it seriously. It just doesn't want the public telling it what to do. The NFL wants it to be its' own idea so it can look like it is running the asylum of bad actors in its' game.

Pity Virginia Tech. Hasn't that school suffered enough? The killing field that school became after the mass execution by some disenfranchised freak without an off button, Vick's association with the football program and his brother, Marcus' equally atrocious behavior while on campus. Proud family, those Vick's. The Hokies paid the price for recruiting those wonderful talents.

Lance Armstrong is widely respected, not only for being a dominant bicycling champion but for his victory over cancer. The man could live in the light of celebrity for the rest of his life and do nothing but collect paychecks but he has instead decided to take the clout he carries to government, asking, selling, pleading with presidential candidates that cancer research becomes as big a priority in this country as "war or terror or taxes." You don't do what he has done in life without being bold and determined. He will be taken more seriously than entertainers because of his story that people can relate to.

NBA referees playing with point spreads? How does that happen? Really, how does that happen? Wouldn't his co-workers or the Association see a pattern of highly deviant calls that would have an official called into the league office, and quickly, and likely reprimanded harshly? That it has taken this long to unearth or prove is shocking, embarrassing and inexcusable. Some heads at the top are going to be roll, in time, over this one. Hey, why don't we just let the players call their own fouls?

There it is, plain to see, for all, a chink in the armor of the Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts. With left tackle Tarik Glenn's abrupt retirement decision, the Colts have a big hole in the ship. You don't replace a talented, proven player like Glenn at a premium position and not feel the effects. It's not like you can go to Lowes or Home Depot and just slap down the credit card for a quality tackle. Peyton Manning and all the Colts players and officials will be stalking Glenn, trying to get him to reconsider, you can take it to the bank.

Steroids in the mail

A letter from Dan who comments on the WSN assertion that golfers are not using steroids, at least not in great number.

"Now it is time for quick correction. One of my closest friends was an Olympic caliber shot putter that was put on a steroid program by the US Olympic Training Program in the early '80s. He has taught me much about steroids as have other athletes over the years.

"You media types are making a big mistake when assuming that only the "big" guys use steroids. I have a friend that was prescribed low doses for depression and another that uses low doses to recover more quickly from triathalon workouts. Ever try golfing 6 rounds per week, 40 weeks per year? I'm 100% certain that many golfers are looking for that extra edge in order to hit the ball a bit farther and recover a bit faster from soreness.

"Call your physician and tell him that you'd like to be prescribed a low or medium dose of anabolic steroidal creme. Wait a few weeks to experience the results and then tell me that golfers aren't using steroids.

"My neighbor is the founder/president of KiloSports, a supplement company. He opened my eyes with his discussion of testosterone a few years ago.

"Low-grade supplements reduce estrogen counts in a man and stimulate testosterone. Low levels of anabolics do the same. He believes that low levels of testosterone cause: depression, decreased sex drive, weight gain, inflammation, mood swings, and joint pain. Small doses of anabolic steroids could stimulate testosterone levels and simply take an older guy with naturally low levels back to his levels in his 20's.

"Nothing illegal from a dosage standpoint, simply a small boost. Are golfers using low levels of steroids? Absolutely. Are they abusing them and achieving testosterone levels that would be illegal in a testing environment? I doubt it.

"I am absolutely stunned how poorly informed the media and general public are when it comes to steroids."

WSN: Dan, consider me corrected that steroids could help heal but the golfing demographic does not seem, at least to these eyes, the type to take steroids with the stigma attached to them and if they are doing so I would assume they are doing so very rarely.

Colorado Warrior

Piggin' out

Lendale White, aka Rashaan Salaam, is likely more Ron Dayne than a Larry Johnson tackle buster and elite back. White played behind a dominating line at USC with other great skill players which allowed his talent to look more pro caliber than it is. White also has the same off-the-field type, um, how do we say this -- career crippling issues that the former CU Heisman Trophy winner had. Maybe LC is not Up in Smoke as Salaam but his attitude, which goes all the way back to his prep days, is red-light flashing "questionable."

Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler is going to win games if the key pieces he needs (offensive line, running back) are put around him and if he can remain healthy. Read Mike Klis' story on Cutler in the Denver Post today and see that Cutler has the family support system behind him to be successful. Rod Smith reminds Broncos fans that Cutler is going to look horrible on some days, that all players endure that, even Saint Elway and he's right but Cutler should eventually iron out those lows. And the guess here is that the Santa Claus, Ind. (an outpost like Kiln, Miss.) native won't be caught with his pants down running a dogfighting ring on his way to success.

Why Cutler should eventually succeed

1. He has the necessary size, strength and arm
2. He is smart and composed
3. He has shown, at Vanderbilt, toughness, confidence and daring
4. He is a competitor

Bernard Jackson, deposed CU quarterback, has to have an award named after him at CU. The man, despite the doubts on his ability to master a position often being questioned, is one of the best acts of being a teammate I've heard of. All last season through today he is constantly showing himself malleable and eager to please and contribute in any way. His talent has never been questioned. The perfect fit has. Now, B-Jack is offering to go play defense. The Black and Gold Truth is this -- Jackson would make a great safety but it's too late to expect much out of him at that position now. If he would have played that spot last year, then sometime this season he would have put it all together and become an NFL-caliber playmaker.

Former CSU standout Joey Porter just got tagged for a $ 141,176 fine by the NFL for fighting another pro player at a casino in Vegas. At that price he should have put on gloves and marketed his talent for a bout. Porter is a blockhead but he still has gas left in his tank as a playwrecker of NFL offenses.

Porter's college coach, Sonny Lubick, is 70 and hearing the catcalls -- he's old and should retire. "Garbage," thinks school athletic director Paul Kowalczyk, who sees more run in his coach. Lubick has not forgot how to teach. His recruiting needs to prove itself more, though, for him to roll out another stout team.

Chad Hennings (Air Force) and Bobby Anderson (CU) both new members of the College Football Hall of Fame. Going in with Emmit Smith, Bruce Smith, Bobby Bowden, Mike Rozier and Charlie Ward amongst others is one special party. Hennings was a fluke talent at the Academy, he was so good. Anderson's name is still revered in Boulder.

Diamonds

Anyone thinking the Rockies are going to be much more than a flaky summer companion worth anymore than some good times here and there is inexperienced. This team has some interesting pieces but still is trying to crash a party without the necessary goods to get in. Smoke and mirrors pitching and an offense that strangely takes days off at times make the Rockies a bad date.

Look for Colorado to actively pursue deals at the winter meetings due to a solid roster of positional players and quality minor league prospects. More pop is needed in the lineup and more pitching is needed like this country needs alternative fuel sources.

Trade chips

Seth Smith, OF, Colorado Springs
Joe Koshansky, 1B, Colorado Springs
Christian Colonel, 3B, Tulsa

Future LoDo stars

Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Springs

Thoughts

President Bush, fresh out of his colonoscopy. Man, I can hardly wait for that party invitation. There's got to be a better way to save yourself than that, doesn't there? One day, maybe. Think the doctor's office should buy one a drink before that procedure.

Final Salvo

Minka Kelly, WSN cheap use of an attractive face and eyes for the day.

What club is he using -- driver, iron, or putter

2007-07-21T07:25:00.001-07:00

Records; British set-up; Pig previews

2007-07-20T01:01:00.000-07:00

Legitimacy, soul brothers and lack of appreciation...

Barry Bonds, well, any drop in to this site knows how the homering honcho is viewed here but with his two blasts Thursday, even I was juiced at the inevitable breaking of Hank Aaron's career mark for powdered baseballs. Regardless of the man's legitimacy as a record breaker, he is going to do it, and regardless of his pitiful attitude off the field, he is one of the most amazing talents ever in any sport. History is upon us and soon to change.

The most talked about challenger to Bonds' mark will be another fantastic player not universally loved -- Alex Rodriguez. His feats are almost taken for granted. It will be a story on how excited people are when he approaches Bonds' soon-to-be record.

Bonds feels hounded, disrespected and hurt. He wonders why his hard work and rare ability to see, hit and destroy pitches is being overlooked and why additives to his training are getting all the news, especially when they were not declared illegal at the time of use. Bonds' personality has always been disgraceful but his focus has always been on playing at the highest level; he's been committed to his craft and excelled. He's earned every penny of his paychecks. It says here that his greatest sin is not the doping questions but how he's conducted himself towards others. If he took steroids, then he's wrong and should be punished...by Hall of Fame voters. If he merely took questionable supplements, he is owed one big, nationwide apology.

Garcia grabs positioning at Carnoustie

Sergio Garcia has first glory at the British Open after posting a sparkling 66 in the tournament's opening round.

Tiger Woods is four shots back and where he can still be dangerous.

The scores may not remain so low but a good initial showing has given the top of the field confidence on a notoriously difficult course and with confidence, comes daring play and potential for great moments.

Hoopin'

Stephon Marbury is talking Italy when his contract with the Knicks ends, supposedly because his wife loved the country on a visit they took. Now why would an inner city guy all about flash want to leave the country to play, other than the facts that the Italians wouldn't require him to play defense or be unselfish with the ball either? Marbury is just letting his mouth run without a leash. Maybe he sees himself as the American Beckham.

Do Yi Jianlian's handlers know they are killing him in the press. Before the draft, fans were intrigued by his talent, wondering if he would be as successful as countryman Yao Ming. Now, once he finally hits the court, for Milwaukee or any other outpost, he is going to be seen as selfish and arrogant and the Chinese will be wondering, "why are youhatin' on our boy?" Smart? Shortsighted? Dumb? Instead of cheers he will be met by boos. Nice diplomacy.

Culpepper in Tampa

Daunte Culpepper, a Florida boy just curbed by the Dolphins, met with the Buccaneers to talk money and opportunity. The WSN mentioned KC and Detroit as good spots for the jumbo-sized quarterback but Tampa Bay would also be a good fit. He can still be a starter, and a good one, in the NFL.

Loco for local

On the courts

Louis Amundson, a former Colorado prep, who balled collegiately at UNLV is playing some aggressive, productive basketball in the summer league and showing strong signs he could stick in the NBA as an end-of-the bench energy player.

Jason Smith is playing with zest and displaying his athleticism and scoring talents but on the boards, he is looking overmatched, as a 7-footer. Maybe no one told him he's not in Fort Collins anymore. Now word that he has an ankle sprain. In time, Smith has the looks of a player who will become someone but he is not ready made. He has a lot to learn and his confidence and work ethic will be key to his future.

CU's Richard Roby's stock is dead. From one-time first-round potential his name is now not seen on the 2008 forecast by DraftExpress.com. That will change. Roby doesn't lack ability or skills and new coach Jeff Bzdelik will make the swing man tougher and more determined and that combination will have Roby in the first round next June.

CU is going to play Denver, Air Force, Wyoming and CSU and it doesn't matter one bit what the records of those schools might be, this is the way it should be, annually. It's great for local basketball and the games the fans can relate to.

More Buffs...CU gets a commitment from 6-foot-9 Trey Eckloff from Cherry Creek, who has underwhelming numbers despite overwhelming size for the prep level, but apparently the guy can hit the perimeter shot consistently and the Buffs see potential and their style of player in the Bruin.

Want to know how to make the Nuggets better without making a trade? Find a new coach. George Karl is a proven winner who has done good things in Denver but his approach to defense is minimal and he can be pushed around by the players. Find a Pat Riley, Greg Popovich-type of disciplinarian for this group a mile high and watch the Nuggets, health permitting, win 55 games and a playoff series or two. Book it.

General manager wanna-be Chauncey Billups lauds the Nuggets for picking up his amigo, guard Chucky Atkins, and letting Steve Blake split for Portland. While the WSN disagrees with that move entirely, Billups says Atkins is the gamer and shooter Blake, well, ain't.

Courage anyone

Who would have guessed Colorado would be playing competitive baseball this late into July. You? Me? Anyone? Despite the poor start the Rockies have proven to be a decent club. Not great, not good, but decent. The question is does general manager Dan O'Dowd do nothing and hope next season the team becomes a playoff contender or does he make a move, costing him minor league jewels? Difficult decision to consider but the move should be to always grab proven talent if health, pricing and attitude line up on the object of your desire.

That bullpen needs first-round pick Casey Weathers to develop and pronto. It is too often prone to breakdown, despite Brian Fuentes' resume and Manny Corpas' talent.

Buff won't ride off into sunset yet

Former CU star 'backer Chad Brown says "no" to retirement, signing a contract with the Patriots. His game is in the past, and he'll have difficulty making the team but if he does, what he provides, experience and leadership, is what makes good teams better. If he can see adequate playing time, Brown will even make a few big plays, like all smart veterans do.

Big 12 Preview

Texas is still the cream of the crop in the Big 12 but Missouri will be the North division kingpin according to The College Football News.

The Tigers have the quarterback in Chase Daniel and multiple offensive weapons. The talent level, no doubt, is up. But the question for MU is this -- will they play defense? Make the pick here Nebraska to win the North.

Colorado is picked to be better but still not a winner, which was already written here (4-8 prediction).

CFN picked Oklahoma State as the team to watch and surprise and the WSN can't agree more. The Cowboys are overflowing with power on offense -- fast, skilled players everywhere, and defensively are coming around. The Pokes will not only excel in conference play but if they don't trip over themselves they will make a real push up the rankings.

Three Buffs earned preseason attention from the publication -- linebacker Jordan Dizon, DB Terrence Wheatley and defensive tackle George Hypolite.

The Black and Gold Truth is this -- Dizon is a grinder that coaches love, knowing he is all about working, producing and winning. Wheatley, if healthy, and supported by any sort of pass rush up front is a quality collegiate corner who can make plays. Hypolite, book it, can become the highest drafted CU defensive lineman since one-year wonder Tyler Brayton. And once he gets to the NFL, he can have an impact.

CSU gets little respect, expected to be a punching bag by CFN. Could happen as the program has fallen but the WSN is picking the Rams to rebound and have a winning record and be in the mix for a bowl game. It won't come easy but it should happen if running back Kyle Bell is healthy and the defense proves itself moderately capable.

Bell, tight end Kory Sperry, defensive back Klint Kubiak and defensive lineman Blake Smith get noticed by the publication. Bell, if his body is sound, needs no explanation. He is high impact. Sperry will make money on Sundays one day, Kubiak is smart, as you expect him to be, and makes plays and Smith gives the Rams some size and potential up front on "D."

Air Force is expected to start slow and finish fast but still have a losing record. Coach Troy Calhoun even told me in the past he has a lot of work to do with the Falcons.

Linebacker Drew Fowler and quarterback Shaun Carney were selected as some of the top players in the conference by CFN. Fowler, the program's most valuable player in 2006, is just a defender that the Academy doesn't generate often (think Chris Gizzi). He's a machine. Carney is the key to Calhoun's offense this season. He's a capable talent who should put up quality numbers.

Toughman competition, unsanctioned

CU defensive lineman Taj Kaynor and Chris Perri will get taken to the woodshed for fighting. On a team with so little margin for error, this was foolish, no matter the college culture and their youth. Perri is considered a potential pass rusher of influence and Kaynor is a developing talent with size who needs to show the goods on the field, not off of it.

Thursday morning quickie

2007-07-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

Jake Plummer insists he's done quarterbacking in the NFL and yet no one believes him. Maybe they should, at least for now. Plummer won't play in 2007 and probably ever again. Let's reveal a dirty little secret right now, open up some classified information on the former Broncos QB, o.k.? Are you ready? The Snake was burned out before getting traded to Tampa Bay. Think about it -- going to play for Jon Gruden, like Mike Shanahan, good with quarterbacks, and a guy who helped Rich Gannon excel, and yet Plummer wanted none of it. Plummer played the game because he was reasonably good at it not because he loved it. No crying because he had to give up the game, like many greats, because he didn't need football to be happy.

David Beckham...watch for this cat to be more style than substance in the United States. You can just tell he loves being loved and parading himself and his wife around in Hollywood style. He likes playing Big Shot. His game will suffer.

Golfers on steroids? Come on, now, that hardly seems possible with but a few exceptions. Golfers like to be loose and elastic when playing, not tight and muscle bound. And besides, look at most of those guys. Do any of them remind you of Mark McGwire or Barry "Fat Head" Bonds? This is a non-story no matter how much Gary Player tries to make it one. As Tiger Woods says, being hung over is likely a bigger problem.

Michael Vick is traveling down the Pac Man Jones Highway of self destruction. Don Banks of CNNSI.com had quotes detailing Vick's selfishness (ouch) and worse, his extreme lack of intelligence. His supernatural gifts have allowed him to survive but those days might be ending. Vick is still scary on the field but off it, he is pathetic. He is going to pull a Mike Tyson and destroy his career.

The Rockies are hot again but doesn't it seem like they don't even know why when they are going to play well consistently or tank it for a week or two?

Jeff Francis can get lit up on certain days and isn't a no. 1 starter but he has the best stuff of any Rockies starter ever. If only Colorado had two more just like him, what this franchise could be.

Brad Hawpe is a hunk. That's right, he's become a stud. In the past, he was all hot and heavy out of the gate to start the season but then showed no staying power. This season he was into all the foreplay early on and when it got it going he has maintained it. He's legit.

And a comment from Nick over at The Nugg Doctor, on CSU football, talking about the Rams and the Buffs come fall.

"This really isn't about anything included in this post, but I have a feeling... that George Hill, #27 for the CSU Rams, is going to tear up the CU secondary. He is way too fast (4.32 40-time) for the huge DB's of CU to run with and if they try to switch a smaller guy onto him all 200 lbs of Hill will be sure to punish.

"Trust."

WSN: If Hill surprises and shreds the Buffs secondary, Nick will have an immediate job offer to be a college football analyst here because Hill, to this point, has done little in a CSU uniform.

Going British; Vick dogged; Broncos heat

2007-07-18T00:39:00.001-07:00

The British Open is back, so is Tiger Woods. Fact is the drama is more attractive, more fun and just plain better when Woods is rollin'. Maybe not everyone agrees with that assessment but here, the rooting interest is in Woods gettin' off at Carnoustie. His presence always looms large and when he's on his game it brings back memories of what golf used to be with Jack Nicklaus.

Jackass, the movie

Michael Vick...idiot, criminal, athlete, quarterback wanna-be, seriously lacking character (a family flaw) and leadership. If Vick is the answer to any question for the Falcons then they will be no better than a carny act regardless of the strong coaching acumen of Bobby Petrino.

Three cheers for Mizzou basketball, which kicked hoopa' and gangsta' Kalen Grimes to the curb after he used the butt end of a shotgun on another man's face. Many schools, especially in the SEC or even Big 12, would have found a way to bury that little story or soft sell it away as just boys being boys. Second-year Tigers coach Mike Anderson showed some character by doing Grimes like he needed to be done.

Florida ain't paradise for everyone

Daunte Culpepper...free at last from a place that was never meant to be. Miami was one bad, short, trippy experience. DC may never duplicate his Viking pyrotechnics but he could still be a winner with better health and some top-level skill players around him. Put him in KC with Tony Gonzalez, Larry Johnson and now, Dwayne Bowe and he would be something again. Deposit him in Detroit with Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams, as well as a Tatum Bell and Kevin Jones on his "6" and watch him pile up numbers.

Jacked up

Dead wrestler Chris Benoit used drugs, a report said. Act surprised. I guess now we can excuse the double homicide of his wife and young son. After all, it's the Twinkie defense -- the drugs killed those people, not Benoit. Let's keep downplaying the violence aspect of the bloodshed and blame it on the drugs that were forced into Benoit's system.

Also interesting that the whole family was saturated with dope. His wife, with Xanax, hydrocodone and the painkiller hydromorphone and his son with Xanak. Sad, sick, odd.

The future

Marrrrrrrrrrco Bel-i-nellllllll-i. Just can't say it enough. So pretty to speak. The guy will be a scoring star in the NBA. The Italian Reggie Miller.

You heard it here first -- a surprise team this NFL season will be Oakland under new coach Lane Kiffin, all of 32-years old. The Raiders have a Jon Gruden-type hire in the former USC wonder boy. Playoffs won't show up overnight but owner Al Davis will bite his nails off in an effort to be patient and will ultimately be rewarded. The Raiders will soon be a bully again.

Loco Local

Rockies general manager Dan O'Dowd and manager Clint Hurdle really could have been fired earlier this season without much objection but look here and Colorado has a winning record after the All-Star game. It says here the Rockies are still philosophy challenged when it comes to building a playoff team but the big dog's patience has, in all fairness, produced better baseball and, as of today, a winner. Guess that deserves a kiss, right?

ProFootballWeekly.com says short stack Elvis Dumervil of the Broncos is not a good fit for new defensive coordinator Jim Bates' defense because of his size. If that were true, that is bad news as Dumervil is by far the most natural and talented pass rusher on the roster even if he is compact in height (under 6 feet). The word here is that an assumption that Dumervil can't play is dumb. Bates, I would like to think, is too smart to waste a quarterback hungry defender.

Photo opp

The picture in this post is just for no good reason, a random diversion, an imagined publicist for this space for the day. Not sure she's right for the job but to keep from getting sued, she had to at least get the interview. You understand.

Junk in the closet

2007-07-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

The Chinese are apparently snobs. Seems Yi Jianlian's team of handlers want to block him from playing in Milwaukee, which selected him in last month's NBA draft. Seems the money men for Yi want him to play for the Yankees for the love or in some little China town. Yi and his boys keep acting up like this and they can be officially be adopted and sworn into the ugly American club. What's up with these guys? Are they French?

Ken Griffey Jr.'s resurgence this season has not been his game, which was never MIA, but his health. When the man is not in the shop, he can flat out ball. Now he's passed Frank Robinson on the all-time home run list. Injuries and age are part of the Griffey equation but Jr. is not done yet climbing in the record books. He's a joy to watch.

Curious, what do Greg Oden and Kevin Durant wear to bed, eat for breakfast and how do they get dressed each morning? I think those are the only questions the media is not interested in about those two this summer.

Season ticket sales are up at Colorado and yet there has been no word that beer and hot dog prices have gone down. Yes, the schedule is attractive with Florida State, Oklahoma and Nebraska coming to Boulder but only half-baked fans would come to watch those schools put the pain on the Buffaloes. The majority of butts in the seats will be there because they also believe that CU can compete, at least for a play or two, with those programs.

Just because. Considering that golfers get rattled by everything on the course it makes one wonder how they don't just fold up shop for the day after something like this.

What was that tearing sound? Call the ambulance.

Know Yao Ming is getting married to his long-time honey but why not fellow tree Lisa Leslie? The children could become the New York skyline.

Would you rather see Junior do this?

Maria Sharapova -- disinterested or stoned?

No need for Foppa; campfire talk

2007-07-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

Woody Paige loves Peter Forsberg.

So much so that he wants "Foppa" back for an encore.

Sweet, isn't it?

Thing is Forsberg ain't Forsberg anymore.

Yes, it would be all romantic and such to have St. Pete back to finish his career and lead a good but not great Avalanche team but I'd prefer to remember Forsberg for how he was, not how he is, and go with other talent.

Paige is sentimental. So am I. This just is more love than reason on his part.

Indian tale

The legend of Von Wafer is growing.

By fall, he'll be considered a future All Star.

The free-agent sharpshooter has been lauded by the Nuggets as the answer to its' backcourt shooting woes and then made the organization look good by torching the summer league but as we all know those heroes are often kickin' it at the end of the bench or pumping gas come the regular season.

Wafer is not the next Ray Allen but if he can stick it better than the bricklayers Denver has employed recently while still playing a modicum of defense, then sign me up as impressed.

WSN Big Bang Sunday Truth

2007-07-15T01:25:00.000-07:00

So who is Gary Sheffield trying to be these days -- Malcom X or Martin Luther King Jr.? Jessie Jackson? Man, dude rips everybody for everything, all with racial connotations. How 'bout just shuttin' the pie hole and ripping the ball. Speaking out about social ills, yeah, all for that Sheff but spoutin' off like some disillusioned drunk at the end of the bar every month, about the mistreatment of blacks (where do I sign the contract to play?) well, just catch a cab and go home, will ya?

So what do Machiavelli and Lindsay Lohan have in common? They're traveling buds these days, if you can believe that little morsel, as Lohan, the sorority-style party chick, is carrying around and reading The Prince. Now, in the hands of a troubled diva, that spells trouble, don't you think? No worries about her ascending to power in Hollywood but making people's lives hell, yeah, maybe. All I know is if she starts pulling the philosophy of that book on me (I've read the book) then she's getting the bus ticket out of town.

Gordon Gee, no stranger to University of Colorado athletics, is the new president at the Ohio State University and he comes to town pitching reform like a politician. Thing is, the man leaves a trail of success wherever he goes. He should be listened to. We need more like him in sports. Now if pro owners would just follow his lead. At least NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is trying to play schoolmaster.

It's Sunday golf and all I want to know are where are Tiger Woods and John Daly? The WSN would just like to see those two talk golf and life. How awkward a situation might that be?

Oklahoma football fans should be feeling good right now. After punching the NCAA in the mouth, scaring the ruling organization from hammering the Sooners' program over violations, coach Bob Stoops is now set up to do what he did last season -- put a high-quality product on the field when people are doubting the stability of his leadership. Look for OU to find the quarterback it needs and jack up opponents all the way to a New Year Days' bowl.

There is talk that the Boston Red Sox might put on the best makeup show they can as well as short, revealing clothes and throw themselves at Alex Rodriguez. If that doesn't make the Yankees cringe, nothing will. But one thing has been proven and it's this -- the Sox no longer pee on themselves in the presence of the Yankees. The tide has changed over recent years and Boston loves to throw down with the New Yorkers. Boston is the new bully on the block.

What's surprising is that A-Rod's agent, Scott Boras, Italian-style muscle that he is without the preferred heritage, hasn't created a contract demand that makes his players, especially the Yankees third baseman an owner-manager-player. One day, that's what it will come to. Just give credit where credit's due and say you read it here first or leave a tip and steal the idea.

Dwight Freeney just sacked $ 72 million over six years to punish quarterbacks. That's a lot of dough for the NFL but is great motivation for future supreme pass rushers, Pop Warner to pros. Supply and demand, amigos, that's what this is and if you find a QB crusher, you pay him. The Broncos letting Bert Berry, Reggie Hayward and Trevor Pryce go was arrogance. None of them are Freeney but they were superior to what the team now employs.

Media and fans alike can get overheated all they want this summer about how strong the Denver Broncos will be in 2007 but the high-elevation boys are going to be judged by what they do in the playoffs. Winning a lot of games in the regular season is a nice appetizer but the main course, thanks to John Elway's final years, determines how satisfied that everyone goes home as in 2007-08. No pass rush, no more points on the board, no more clutch play = flame out.

Remember Ryan Leaf's monumental bust of a career? Vinny Testaverde may not have turned into a Hall of Fame quarterback either but the guy is about ready to announce he is coming back for his 21st season in the NFL. Not bad considering he was awful in his early years. Goes to show what hanging tough through adversity and criticism and working to get better can accomplish. Think what Leaf could have become with Testaverde's professionalism.

Is it me? No, really, tell me, I want to know. Or does it seem now that the NFL instituted this great behavioral test for the players that significantly more incidents are showing up in police blotters and drug tests?

Tom Glavine just won his 298th career game Saturday and won't stop until he's blown past 300. The young lefty that resembles Glavine's smart-but-soft tossing-style is Colorado's Jeff Francis. If only the young Canadian could play for years for a dominant franchise like the Braves, like Glavine did before relocating to New York. Francis has but 39 career victories but could, if he's on a winner, win 200. He has that sort of ability.

Troy Renck of the Denver Post makes a point that has been made here too -- the Rockies need to make a deal for pitching, starting pitching, if it is going to be competitive in the second half of the season and the cost for quality is going to be the cream of the minor-league crop. Renck said it, and it was said here before that cost must be accepted. The glaring problem with Renck's article is this -- the names he's mentioning are terrible. Dontrelle Willis' game is wrecked right now, Jon Garland is not what he used to be either. Both are no. 3 pitchers at best and Colorado won't cough up Ian Stewart, Greg Reynolds and others for them. Roy Oswalt is a top-of-the-rotation starter and would be worth the price.

The Nets sign Jamal Magloire. This is an under-the-radar-move that will pay big dividends. Magloire runs the floor and defends and would have been a big step forward for a lot of teams.

Wealth building; Cuban Cubs; Dealmaking

2007-07-13T01:34:00.000-07:00

Alex Rodriguez is a lock to soon start earning in excess of $ 30 million annually. And, just on skills and drawing power alone, he's worth it, no matter how many haters he might have surrounding him. He doesn't own the team trophies or sell the amount of merchandise that Michael Jordan did, which made MJ a bargain no matter what he was paid, but A-Rod, if he can avoid the Ken Griffey Jr. injury curse, will have all-around numbers like the game has never seen. He is dedicated to his profession, maximizing his talent and that alone should be respected. So, he's not a natural leader, who cares. Honestly now, in all fairness, does the man really have to sell hot dogs and popcorn too? Can't some other inferior-talented player be the leader or in New York's case, isn't Derek Jeter enough?

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has applied to buy the Chicago Cubs. Regardless of his frat boy behavior, any franchise in any sport that has Cuban for an owner should do all it can to support his team. The man is what any fan wants -- someone who cares as much about winning as they do. Cuban wants to make money but like George Steinbrenner, he wants to win more. Much more. The Cubs should be so fortunate to have Cuban as their boss and I promise you the overwhelming majority of their fans would love to see this go down. Ah, and imagine the fun of Cuban in Major League Baseball with it's golf-like, old-conservatism mentality amongst owners.

Wondering, what would the Rockies look like with Pat Bowlen running the show?

More Mumbles, basketball

So who's going to win the stare down -- Kobe Bryant or the Lakers? L.A. can bust Bryant's cajones if they desire but this is a no-win situation for it. In the end, as painful as it is, the best move for the Lakers is to concede to an angry Bryant and dish him for the biggest bounty available. However, if the organization will reconsider its' previous stance and cough, cough up Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum, which it hasn't shown it is willing to do, then Bryant would likely be receptive to staying, as such a move would bring a star-quality talent to tandem with Mr. Congeniality.

The Nuggets have been strangely silent in the offseason. Who knows, maybe they're accurate in assuming a healthy roster, given time to develop chemistry, can be a Western Conference power. The WSN doesn't really see any defensive magic on that team, or sufficient perimeter ability on offense. Please accept my condolences but, as of now, Denver, with all the breaks imaginable, wins one series in the playoffs, no more.

Oh, I stand naked and corrected -- Chucky Atkins is coming, Chucky Atkins is coming. Hey, wake up! Did you hear the news! Atkins is coming and Steve Blake is going. Atkins is older, smaller and not the passer or ball handler that Blake is. Atkins will be a better long-range shooter and slightly better scorer but does Denver really need another guy like that? This decision, maybe a money one, gets a D. The Nuggets are not better for it.

Orlando doesn't get it. Signing scoring forward Rashard Lewis away from Seattle will create more offense and make the Magic prettier but it doesn't help them win. Does Lewis rebound, pass or defend? That was one expensive cosmetic surgery in O-town.

Mumbling football

The Chargers scored in the supplemental draft getting cornerback Paul Oliver, who can, at best, be a solid starter, and at worst, a play-making nickel back. The Chargers blew it by firing Marty Schottenheimer without a proven replacement but their personnel decisions are rock solid.

The Ravens picked offensive tackle Jared Gaither as a supplemental pick and if general manager Ozzie Newsome thinks Gaither can be a force, then if I'm Baltimore fan I'm feeling pretty smug right now.

Is it just me or are the Broncos having more off-the-field problems this offseason? Brandon Marshall, David Kircus, Kenny Peterson and Sam Brandon. Think the team needs an assistant principal to start handing out discipline. The police aren't a deterrent. The NFL is doing it's part but what about coach Mike Shanahan?

Hook baited or not

Rumors are Houston could throw a line into the water to gauge interest in starting pitcher Roy Oswalt, fellow hurler and former Rockies arm Jason Jennings and reliever and Cherry Creek graduate Brad Lidge.

All are long shots to be be traded. Oswalt and Lidge will demand a premium price and Jennings just isn't good enough to get a quality offer.

So why is this news?

If the Rockies truly want to prove their love to their honeys (the fans) they would grip hard, and dish prospects from the top shelf for Oswalt, first and Lidge, second.

Oswalt is a horse who could anchor the staff, coupling with Jeff Francis for a solid 1-2 punch, also saving the bullpen as well as win, guaranteed, 15-16 games annually and Lidge, with his power stuff, a lot of it in the dirt, could be the closer Colorado desperately needs.

If all this requires giving up star prospects Greg Reynolds and Ian Stewart, and possibly big leaguers Aaron Cook and Brian Fuentes, then (lightning please), it should be done.

Farm hands get recognized

Earlier this season, Rockies minor league pitcher Brandon Hynick looked like a Greg Maddux-knockoff. Then he blended back into the crowd for a while but his last start re-lit his lamp as Baseball America listed him no. 11 on its' hottest prospect chart. Further down the ladder is pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez, who dominated Double-A last season but struggled in Denver and has done the same at Triple-A Colorado Springs this season. A recent turnaround, however, has earned him the no. 20 spot for Baseball America.

Gettin' dirty -- Jimenez will never make it in Colorado. He's proven that with a terrible year at Colorado Springs. Throwing hard is not enough to be successful in The Show. He's been slow to make adjustments and shows no signs, even subtle ones, of figuring out his challenges.

Hynick has been sterling since drafted but he still has a long ride to the majors. Time will tell. He's proving to be too hittable, even if runs are hard to come by off him, to be a star. He does look like a solid prospect but a lower-level two man or a high-level three in the rotation.

Final Salvo

I have to come clean, step out of the closet (again) to confess -- I'm unmoved by the hysteria regarding David and Victoria Beckham. No squeals or shrieks or hosannas in me.

Forgive me but I think I will pass on the made-for-America publicity and wait for college and pro football.

Color me boring.

Hope Beckham lights it up on the field and proves to be more than movie star-false important.

Smith cooked; Sooners win; Pujols ticked

2007-07-12T00:49:00.000-07:00

Forget all the heroic talk coming from Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith about working to come back to play.

His hip is a disaster area, worse than originally thought after the surgeons found a mess.

Rod Smith is done as a pro football player.

Oh, he'll kill himself trying to make it back, as the man is a warrior, evidenced by his climb from nobody to star pass catcher and rugged blocker, but Smith is still human and his body is cooked.

Game over.

Smith is one of the amazing Broncos stories of all time and also a tremendous success period. In the end, father time or injury gets every player. This is Smith's sunset.

Sooners intimidate NCAA

When is OU going to rename the ground it plays on Rhett Bomar Field? Interesting announcement by the NCAA Wednesday, which loves to go dictator on member schools, making the Sooners cough up eight victories from the 2005 season for rules violations.

Like how does that truly affect a school for the worse?

Does a recruit in 2007 say, "man, no way I'm going there now!"

How you man up and punish a lawbreaker is hit him where it hurts -- you make OU sit home for three bowl seasons, even if they win big each year, or yank five scholarships for two years.

What the big, bad, fire-breathing NCAA did to OU was lose it's nerve when it came time to stand up and be taken seriously or not even show up.

Maybe the NCAA got weak in the knees in the moment because it realized it was picking on someone bigger than it. Easier to punk Outpost U. but not so easy to knock out a blue blood school.

Bad dreams

Would the Rockies dip into the pail of lessons unlearned and trade for Marlins lefty Dontrelle Willis, a 22-game winner in 2005 but now no better than a no. 3 pitcher (19-19 in his last 38 decisions)?

Sure, Colorado would beg to have an arm of that caliber but the question is -- at what cost?

Willis is expensive at the bank and the prospects that would leave the organization as payment would be too steep.

Bad idea all the way around.

Nixed!

Pujols has legitimate beef

St. Louis Cardinals star Albert Pujols was shocked he never played in the All-Star Game, especially considering the man who made that decision was Pujols' regular manager, Tony La Russa.

La Russa tried to play it off as strategy in the event the game went into extra innings

The dirt is Pujols is Pujols -- he should have played and he prepared himself to play. That he didn't was wrong but anyone who knows the Cardinals skipper knows that while he is a big-time winner he is also not adverse to running over people.

It seems stupid, it says here, to hack off your superstar player heading into the second half of the season.

Pujols was embarrassed. La Russa is the one who should be.

Playing king

Super agent Scott Boras is living his second childhood or either he believes Bud Selig died and made him commissioner.

First, Boras shares his idea on a best-of-nine World Series and now he is all amped up for how the Home Run Derby should be -- a neutral site in the off-season for prize money.

When it comes to squeezing every last dollar out of an owner for one of his players, Boras is tops but he's letting the perception of his power go to his head. He's delusional. Not saying he can't throw out ideas but to Major League Baseball's front office, Boras is just like you and me -- a fan who's vote doesn't count.

Boras just makes a little more lettuce than us and has a bigger imagination on the playground.

Smith getting bagged

Former CSU standout big man Jason Smith, drafted by Miami and traded to Philadelphia, apparently already has his pro critics, and it's only summer.

Apparently, it looks like Smith believes summer is for vacationing, not playing ball.

The assertion that Smith looks disinterested is inaccurate. He's trying to find his way with new teammates and against better competition. He'll be o.k.. To judge him as not caring is merely jumping to conclusions based on a small sample of evidence.

No fast forward necessary

Air Force is going to run a lot of no huddle this season. Now if we can only get some more teams to adopt that strategy. Yes, it takes direction to coordinate something good but how about doing that at the line of scrimmage and thus, create more plays too.

Mumbles

Alex Rodriguez should dump the Yankees. They want him, they want him not, now they want him again. Take the money and run, A-Rod, all the way to history.

Darko Milicic is reportedly getting $ 21 million for three years -- for being a draft bust. How much you make, amigos?

Matt Holliday and Brian Fuentes were the Rockies All-Star Game selections this season. How many more of those affairs will each play in and for what team?

Get ESPN's Insider? Check out this insightful article on the true top sackers in the NFL. Promise, it's good, good stuff.

Buff influence; Nuggets sleeper; Italiano

2007-07-11T10:33:00.001-07:00

Oakland Raiders offensive lineman and perceived bust Robert Gallery might be ready to shake the ugly judgment that is currently on his head. The former Iowa Hawkeye, once the second overall pick in the draft, has a new positional coach in former CU assistant Tom Cable, who later went on to become a college head coach. The good news for Gallery and the Raiders is that Cable did his best work as an assistant and if those two generate any chemistry the on-field result could be very pleasing to the team's "O."

Sam Amico, who produces The Amico Report, says that former Iowa State Cyclone and Detroit Pistons draftee (2006) Will Blalock could surprise and make the Denver Nuggets roster based on toughness and skill. Blalock is small but was a productive collegian. If Steve Blake dumps the Nuggets, maybe Blalock slides on to the roster.

Amico also is high on Golden State draftee Marco Belinelli, as is the WSN, but maybe that's just because he's an Italian who likes to jack up shots. If Belinelli hits the gym, he is going to be an offensive force in the Warriors system. Would have loved him a mile high.

Cutler love; Chiefs denial; Buffs look

2007-07-10T05:26:00.001-07:00

Hear the shrieks of love for Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler?

Those aren't just are the voices of girls, they're of grown men and media alike.

And the guy hasn't even done much yet.

Imagine if he, you know, plays well over the course of a season or gasp, wins a playoff game.

He'll own the town, become mayor, governor and have his statue outside Invesco Field.

The WSN loves his physical talents, think the kid is smart as a whip, driven and possessing winning intangibles, which include leadership but is far from anointing him the chosen one.

There are still oddities to his game too -- like a strange throwing motion, locking into receivers, limited mobility in a day when defenders are bigger, faster and meaner than ever, and a strangely stiff presence in the pocket.

Cutler has potential, like Ashley Lelie or Tatum Bell had a high ceiling, but we're just not ready to clear the shelf for MVP and Super Bowl trophies yet.

Deja Vu in BBQ country

Pity the Kansas City fans, just like the Broncos fans before them. Seems the followers of the Chiefs are having a difficult time realizing tailback supreme Priest Holmes has already left the building just as Denver had trouble accepting Terrell Davis' wrecked knee meant his playing future was in the rear-view mirror.

Of course, Kansas City has little reason to cry. Having Larry Johnson replace Holmes is like a wealthy dude wrecking the luxury car and being able to drive another one out of the garage the next day.

Holmes was an unbelievably productive player who's time regrettably was up too soon due to too many fender benders but that's the life as a running back in the NFL. Johnson, if he can remain healthy and pleased financially, could easily carry the Chiefs running load at a high level for a few more years.

Flamethrower

Looked at the CU football schedule and tried to break it down by worst and best case scenario. Obviously, the Buffs could, theoretically, lose all their games but if they couldn't do that last season it certainly won't happen in 2007. But the number arrived at for this exercise wasn't as high as the fanatics (check the definition) dream of at night.

The best case formula was 4 wins, which, before you go rageaholic, is still improvement for a program coming off two successes in 2006 with questions still dotting the team like measles. Coach Dan Hawkins isn't being commanded to win this season anyway. If he fails in 2008, then there is going to be a certain faction of fans verbally rioting and planning a coup.

* The victories

Miami, Oh., Baylor, Kansas and Iowa State
---KU and ISU will not come easy.

* The losses

CSU, ASU, FSU, OU, K-State, Texas Tech, Mizzou and Nebraska.
---The Rams are more experienced, the rest are simply better.

Mumbles

Allen Iverson and his bodyguard got plugged for $ 260,000 Monday after a jury sided, sort of, with Marlin Godfrey's claim Iverson's entourage pulped him when Godfrey refused to vacate a part of a bar that was VIP'd for A.I. Yes, Godfrey was trying to win the lottery against the Bank of Iverson but that A.I. got off relatively cheap for the thugging by his bodyguard shows again money talks and the rest of the world is left slack jawed at the power of it all.

Bears linebacker stud Brian Urlacher is in the news for agitating the mother of his child. Seems Urlacher made a very rookie mistake in sexing a stripper, and we all know what a noble profession stripping is and what the objective is for all the "nice" girls in it. The Bears cruncher would have been better served asking first, before sacking her, how much she wanted for the next 18-22 years.

Rickey Henderson wants to come back and play Major League Baseball. Who's next, Satchell Paige? Oh, scratch that, he's dead. Rickey might as well be. Dude's game was one I admired when I and he played and let's just say that wasn't just yesterday.

Hearing Kevin Garnett now wants to stay in Minnesota. Really? Guessing the truth is he is frustrated with a deal getting done to send him someplace desirable so he has decided to ball hard until some point in the season when he hopes there is a more favorable and likely relocation scenario.

Al Franken disciple

I see Barry Bonds is taking heat for not participating in the All Star home run contest in his home park. Since when did Bonds ever care about anything not Bonds? Face it, Bonds "homered" his way into the game, getting preferential treatment as always, as all divas expect, demand and receive. And because he wishes to prove himself worthy -- to himself, of course -- he likely is skipping the mad bomber contest to save his energy and long ball attempts for the game.

The WSN truly believes there is some Michael Jordan in Bonds in the way that he motivates himself from criticism.

In the courts

Thought we lived in a country where we didn't believe in cruel and unusual punishment? Sounds like Fresno State got done by the courts just that way. If the school did lie (imagine that) in its' stated reason for the dismissal of the volleyball coach, shame on it but if there was evidence to the contrary, then this is, as usual, corrupt power on the bench. And it ain't even Iraq.

Rub your eyes

Monumental Nuggets bust Nikoloz Tskitishvili is back in Denver, at least on the summer league roster, and his game still seems lost.

He continues to shoot from Colorado Springs city limits even though his perimeter game resembles that of Ben Wallace. He doesn't rebound and has little court awareness. All of which could have been the scouting report on me back in the day. One difference -- I'm not 7-feet tall.

Self indulgence

Not sports related but anytime a politician or person in the public eye who's hand has been caught in the cookie jar on anything can sac up and take responsibility and accountability, no matter the consequences, well, that deserves a salute. Maybe not always forgiveness but a salute for doing the right thing, especially for a leader.

Holliday about over

2007-07-09T07:35:00.001-07:00

Man, how obvious was it in a local paper Sunday that Rockies bat master Matt Holliday is planning on playing elsewhere soon, as in the next two years. He sounded frustrated with the organization, a little pissed and resigned to moving out of Coors Field.

If that's the case, it is what it is. The key then becomes getting talent for talent. General manager Dan O'Dowd would need to receive in trade a proven veteran or two and/or read closely, TOP PROSPECTS, as in elite level, not scrubs as usual, in return. Colorado would have to deal only with organizations that have those sorts resources.

WSN Classified Files

Franklin Morales' left arm has made the Rockies organization dream of big things. The problem to this point is Morales has insufficient control and command despite throwing cheddar in the minor leagues.

The word here has always been he is more valuable as a trade chip than future star in Denver. Guys without control usually go nowhere.

BaseballProspectus.com just wrote of Morales and believes his future is likely to come out of the bullpen, and the Rockies desperately need a hammer there, saying he could develop into a B.J. Ryan type.

Bottom line? Morales is a long shot to "hit" but if he does, he could be a major piece to the winning puzzle.

That said, the WSN would package him in a trade for a star-like talent this offseason.

Where are my tickets

A fantastic breakdown of a dream match-up on the court between Wimbledon kings Roger Federer and Bjorn Borg, men who each hold a handful of the grass court titles, in succession. Tennis was worth watching back in the day of a young WSN writer with all the great personalities and talents. Now, here in this space, it is considered no more exciting than horseshoes.

But Federer-Borg would would resemble when a heavyweight fight was highly anticipated.

Even broadcasters are bad boys

Ex-NFL player and current broadcaster meat-head Bill Maas was just having some fun with a younger woman. You know, some guns, pot, coke, Ecstasy and sex. Just a weekend getaway to recharge his battery. To the victors go the spoils.

Of course, that's all exciting until you, you know, get pulled over by the state police. See, the cops love busts like these because they create great public relations and are fun to hold over the heads of their peers as in "hey, look at me! Look what I did!"

Maas, I'm sure, will go the athlete route, even though he isn't one anymore and spin that none of that stuff, including the girl, were his.

The silver lining in the story is this -- Maas can field phone calls of support from many ex-athletes who have also had a rendezvous with the smokies.

In the end, he'll get nothing more than a fine and a relative legal slap on the wrist.

Shower off

After the Maas story, how about something that lifts the soul. Caught a piece on ESPN last night titled Called to Serve about former tennis player Andrea Jaeger, told by Tom Rinaldi, which was brilliant.

Jaeger moved on from her sport at age 19 and achieved far more away from tennis than she every could have on the court once an injured shoulder would have healed.

If ESPN rebroadcast it today, catch it. Moving.

Catch the story on Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton in ESPN the Magazine. Another story of victory in life. The honesty, the power of a strong wife believing in you and the rebirth of a soul.

Worth the read.

Stein said it

It was written here before that Portland rookie center to be Greg Oden is not a lock to be a star because of his injury history and his apparent lack of passion.

Marc Stein of ESPN just wrote that the Blazers coaches are telling Oden that he needs "a sense of urgency" but guess what, amigos? Ever manage or know someone who had motivation problems? Did anything anyone tell them ever work to inspire them?

Those personalities just don't change.

So here's the skinny for years down the road when I'm long gone from writing this blog. Oden will have a successful career, maybe a long one if his body holds up and I think he will be a multiple-time all star but it would not shock me at all for him to end up his career ring-less unless he ends up gets his Tim Duncan like David Robinson did to lead.

WSN Big Bang Sunday Truth

2007-07-08T00:07:00.001-07:00

USC got blasted by the national media for offering an eighth grader a basketball scholarship for when the current middle schooler is ready for college.

Oh, the outrage!

Hey, if the lil' dude is a prodigy, who cares. Think the parents are complaining? The kid?

Hey, the NBA didn't like high schoolers at one time and everyone got their panties in a bunch over that "shortsighted" move, until Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady, LeBron James and others LIT...IT...UP. It's just a new way of thinking.

Yes, it's all about a system out of control but is it as bad as cheating academically or with steroids? Is it as sick as the AAU circuit or recruiting improprieties? So please, all you indignant national voices, look in the rear-view mirror.

And maybe if someone offered those media slugs' child a college scholarship, paying for school, they'd feel, oh, I don't know -- differently.

In the Mail

From Matthew Pucak, who talks about the assertion here that three games will go a long way towards determining CSU's bowl hopes -- Wyoming, Air Force and San Diego State, all winnable but challenging dates for different reasons.

"I will taunt you about CSU. I do think those games will do a lot for CSU. I bet they come in at 4-1, then lead Air Force 21-3 at halftime before losing and going down the drain with 7 straight losses...because it happened last year.

"This year I think the three-game stretch of Utah, at BYU and at New Mexico will show what CSU is about. Win two of three and they are bowling somewhere warm, and maybe in the (conference) championship hunt. Lose two or three, and Sonny's chair will be getting warmer than he has ever dealt with before.

"And don't think I'm hating on you too hard, just giving you a little grief for messing up. This is a great blog and I get disappointed when you don't update. Keep up the good work."

WSN: Matt, Sonny Lubick hasn't forgot to coach but, as you point out, if the wins and bowl berths don't start showing up consistently again, the heat is going to burn him out of the gopher hole in the near future. CSU doesn't have the talent it used to so the margin for error is slimmer. If the Rams play a tight game every week they could and should be bowl bound. No BCS fun but a holiday treat, nonetheless.

The Underground Word on Broncos pig

John Elway and Denver were pretenders until Terrell Davis showed up, until Gary Zimmerman became that rock at tackle.

Quarterback of the present Jay Cutler has a solid, eager if unspectacular runner to help in Travis Henry, two quality tight ends, a top-notch wide receiver in Javon Walker but also a questionable line. And we all know that holes up front make for happy defenders.

What the Broncos need as much as anything on that side of the ball is a Zimmerman quality bodyguard to protect Cutler's "6" and a bunch of other guys who take great pride in their work, easily offended at the skill position players being ineffective due to the defense.

Maybe a healthy Matt Lepsis is that leader on the edge to go with the inside guts of center Tom Nalen and feisty Ben Hamilton but the feeling here on Lepsis is that coming off of surgery and aging as well that we're going to see slipping in his play. Add that to the fact he is a dependable but hardly dominant tackle and there are issues.

The wild card? Rookie and reported former steroid user Ryan Harris.

How good will he be and become?

The WSN is optimistic about him. His smarts will determine how much he contributes this season.

Slamma Jamma

Raiders defensive lineman Bryant McNeal, next stop -- jail. The former Broncos draft pick and bust, I might add, was planning for life after football, selling cars. Ones that weren't his. Guess that matters to the police in South Carolina, where McNeal "Motors" got busted. Who knows, maybe that move was in the Oakland playbook.

Current Bronco defensive end Kenny Peterson is also going to jail. NFL jail. Sitting on the sideline for four games for partying with steroids. Guess taking the junk helped him earn a big paycheck but how come he still can't make plays on the field? If you take 'roids and still suck, what does that say?

Funny, isn't it, how some of these guys just don't get it? They words of the league's conduct policy sound like the teacher in Charlie Brown to these chumps --- wa, wa, wa, wa, wa. They just blindly keep acting like fools, keep taking the punishment and embarrassing themselves. No control over their propensity to look and act stupid. Rules don't change most people. If you don't have character, then nothing will save you from yourself.

The NET (National Entitlement League)

The WSN sees that Eric Dickerson is the latest to stand up and throw darts at the NFL, saying the league needs to mama it's former players with a better pension. Does this grandstanding ever end?

Does it look like most of us in this country are moved by the pleas, considering millions of Americans who don't make big pro salaries, sometimes millions, are without any health care for themselves and sometimes their families?

My question is this -- if I pay you hundreds of thousands a dollars a year or even better, funneling nine or 10 zeroes into your bank account, do you think you can try and find a way to save a few bucks for retirement and future health concerns?

In all fairness, how can you make me the bad guy if you are pulling down more paper than most people could ever dream of?

How can you logically be angry when you decided to spend your cheese on bling, women, more women, exotic trips, sports cars and dream mansions?

Soldiers, yes, pay their health care, on the house, but former pro athletes, even with a union that served you well while you played, well sit down Joe, you're making a fool of yourself.

Net Effects

Rumors on the NBA trails say that Nuggets free agent point guard Steve Blake is desired by the Heat but that Miami is laughing at Blake's agent who sees his client as a $ 6 million asset. We're laughing here too. Something positive could come down, even if it remains a long shot, for Denver. Word is the Nuggets like Raptors shooter Morris Peterson, who would be a great fit due to his size (6-foot-7) and long-range marksmanship (37 percent), an area where Denver is weak. I'd call the possibility of such an acquisition slim at this point but you know the mile high front office is aggressive. We just have to see how creative it can be to improve the team with a player like Mo-Pete.

Back in the saddle

Venus Williams ain't done yet. Digging deep into the well for some of that past dominance, she wiped out Frenchy Marion Bartoli to claim her fourth Wimbledon title. Winners never really forget how to win. They might lose the hunger or get injured but if they're right in the head and the body, then they are always dangerous. Williams is just the latest example.

Rockies Rap

Former Colorado Rockies second baseman Eric Young's offspring, E.Y. Jr. is holding his own in the Rockies farm system at High-A ball, hitting .272. Where he is most impressing is 42 steals. But if that average doesn't come up, then the dream of the bright lights go out. Still, keep an eye on him. If he comes around with the bat, he could make NOISE. He might even, one day, make up for the glaring Chone Figgins' mistake (watch that little Angel excel).

Matt Holliday, National League MVP. So says Jayson Stark of ESPN.com. For the first half of the season. Holliday has become a star after a mediocre minor league career, which helps the Rockies remain patient with some names you'll read of below. Holliday is special but him ending up with the MVP is going to be a tough sell over names like Cecil Fielder of the Brewers or someone from the Mets. Voters love winners. If Holliday revs up the engine even more in the second of the season, keeps Colorado close in the West, wins the batting title, hits 30 homers and drives in 130-plus runs, then yeah, anything is possible.

Trade bait for the Rockies if they decide to part out the team later this summer? Try on these names for size:

Jeremy Affeldt...been stellar in relief but he's a fluke. Sell high.
Brian Fuentes...if the quality offer comes around, Fed-Ex him.
Brad Hawpe...discussed earlier this week.
Kaz Matsui...ditto.
Rodrigo Lopez...dangling for prospects or power bat.
Aaron Cook...trust this -- he's available, for high-level prospects.
Yorvit Torrealba...if a surprise offer of prospects is made.

Here they are, the latest WSN Elite Picks for the Colorado farm system. Not who the scouts or experts salivate over but who looks good from this seat.

Pitchers

Greg Reynolds...hurt but was dealing before going down
Brandon Hynick...human again but great body of work

Hitters

Michael McHenry...pop and a good eye, remember him
Daniel Mayora...middle infielder with juice

Usual Suspects

Ian Stewart, Joe Koshansky and Seth Smith are all so close to being ready for the step to Coors Field. If any of them would just find that little extra to get over the hump, they'd be in Denver, but none of them have been able to kick it into that higher gear.

Holding on to the dream

Perseverance is a trait we're all told matters and yet sometimes forget or decide is too difficult. For Cory Sullivan of the Rockies and Jeff Salazar of the Diamondbacks, that's how they live their lives. They are irrepressible.

They likely have Triple-A or the dreaded Four-A talent, that nasty notion that you are better than the best of minor leaguers but can't hack it in the pros, yet because they refuse to take "no" for an answer and keep the pedal to the metal, they are back in the major leagues.

Sullivan flopped last season after having promise because he shows little ability with the bat. He struck out too much, didn't drive the ball and didn't create offensive havoc.

Salazar, a one-time star prospect for the Rockies, is now gone but re-emerged as a major leaguer this week with Arizona.

One other name with Colorado ties that is back in the bigs this season, and crushing, is Jack Cust of the A's, who despite his immense power, once looked like a lost cause; more weekend softball hack than a major league power plant.

This fall look for similar driven souls on the football teams, prep or college, you follow. These guys become great stories.

Who says I don't how to love!

Now there's the some good news to start the week.

Let's hug.

Just because you want to know

Eva Longoria's attractiveness is growing on me.

Of course, how could it not considering her picture and name are flashed all over the internet daily.

Spurs star and NBA Finals MVP Tony Parker better enjoy it all while he can because this Hollywood marriage is doomsday coming.

Dead Man Walking.

Parker's contract likely will last longer than his marital union.

The "U" education; 'Nut breaks record

2007-07-05T00:11:00.000-07:00

Be careful what you wish for, right?

Former Broncos star running back Clinton Portis is reportedly going to be ready to roll come training camp despite being one dinged-up ride. The sad thing here, once you discount the king's ransom Portis makes with the Redskins is that the flashy and mouthy product of the University of Miami blew it. If he wouldn't have been so insatiable for money he'd still be in Denver and on his way to the hall of fame. Now, he plays for a chump franchise led by a little control freak (Dan Snyder) and will retire one day as a merely good and forgettable back in the history books.

Champ Bailey, meanwhile, the goods the Broncos received in return, along with a second-round pick (Tatum Bell, we hardly knew you), is headed for the Hall.

I'm not sitting next to him on the drive home

So I see some fool named Joey Chesnut just consumed 66 hot dogs -- in one sitting -- in the annual gorge orgy of wieners in New York City.

Not that he hadn't eaten like, well, forever. No, you see, Chesnut did all this for fun and he says, honestly, patriotism, knocking off the Japanese legend who had owned this contest.

I tried to duplicate that feat of 66 on the fourth of July but came up short. Stalled out at two.

I'm ashamed that I let everyone down.

Of course I wasn't in the bathroom all night either screaming in pain, bargaining with God.

And what does the call to the plumber go like?

I also can get girls. I don't need to eat 66 dogs to impress. Not that I wouldn't hot dog-up and do that if necessary.

And one more thing -- how would you like to jam so much meat down your throat and finish in second place?

Then, you're not a winner, you're just a circus act.

Or medical journal write-up.

Rockies Rap

Remember earlier this season when Colorado flat out could not score runs?

Yesterday they laid 17 on the Mets.

Hitting is not much of a problem anymore. If the pitching wasn't so foul, the Rockies would actually be somebody, like, you know, Paris Hilton.

Time for drug testing -- Todd Helton drove in five runs in that victory.

O.K., you like dirt or otherwise, I hear, you wouldn't be here. Garrett Atkins is not the star he was last year (29 homers, 12o RBI) and likely won't be again. But he is likely a 20- homer, 100-RBI guy, consistently. Keep him.

Brad Hawpe is having his best season but is close to maxed out regarding potential. Great arm in right field, capable bat but trade him in a package deal, possibly with a guy named below for a no. 3 starter or higher-end prospects.

Helton? Watch him age as a slap-hitting, low production lovable guy.

Kaz Matsui? Love the spark he provides for the offense. When he was hurt, the Rockies "O" was terrible. Thing is, Matsui, outside of being a .300 hitter with 25-30 steal potential just doesn't have much pop in his stick. Trade him. Maybe even pair him with Hawpe in a deal. Tell general manager Dan O'Dowd you heard it here first.

Big Man on Campus

Taunt me if you wish, wondering out loud about my heritage but looking at the CSU football schedule I just think that those back-to-back October road games against Air Force and Wyoming are going to go a long way towards determining if the Rams end up in a bowl game. Throw in the contest at San Diego State in early December and you have the difference, possibly, between either a 4-or-7-win season.

Keep heckling the WSN, Oklahoma fans, but the word out of this alley is this -- ex-Sooners' great and Minnesota Vikings no. 1 pick Adrian Peterson is not the second coming and not a future hall of fame back. Oh, we'll give it to you that "All Day" will have his moments but his career is going to be relatively short.

Nuggets Noise

Free-agent guard Steve Blake is reportedly still within the grasp of the Nuggets.

Quit fooling around! Both parties need each other. The Denver system makes Blake look like a quality player while the former Maryland Terrapin is exactly what the Nuggets need more of -- an unselfish, skilled passer.

Crystal ball

Lakers first round pick Javaris Crittenton has the skills to eventually be the best point guard that franchise has had, sorry Nick Van Exel, since that Michigan State import -- Earvin "Magic" Johnson.

Goodbye

Turn out the lights on hockey's Jeremy Roenick, who is done with playing after 18 years. A fine player who recorded 495 career goals, the third highest total amongst American born players.

What Roenick is remembered here most for is his verbal brawling with retired Avalanche goalie supreme Patrick Roy.

"Tell Jeremy I can't hear what he's saying because I have these (championship) rings in my ears."

Billups in limbo; Sakic confident; who's gay

2007-07-04T01:55:00.000-07:00

Pretend to be shocked for this "surprise," will you? Come on, just play along when you hear the news that Chauncey Billups big foray into the free agent market ended up with him staying in Detroit with the Pistons for heavy lettuce. Good for him, that's where he is respected and loved and where his zenith took place. You don't ditch something like that for the abyss of the great unknown.

By the way, Billups' agent says the news above is a "vicious rumor." Whatever! Billups will be a Piston. That is just stupid agent crap to shake some more money from the tree.

Joe Sakic is feeeeeeling goooood these days, thinking out loud that the Avalanche can compete for the Stanley Cup again. If I felt I knew more about hockey I'd completely disagree but I'll stop short of writing that today, saying only that Colorado has improved itself and should be better defensively and thus, more consistently competitive.

Barry Bonds, home run number 751. Just a matter of time before Public Enemy no. 1 breaks Hammerin' Hank Aaron's career mark. Celebrate now. For years after, Bonds will be treated like Pete Rose. Watch. Ironically, what is interesting about Bonds is this -- without the aid of who knows what substances he used in his body, I still think he would be first in homers amongst active players. And isn't it surprising that if he was a user that he never was chronically hurt like Mark McGwire or a early flame-out like Jose Canseco?

Hey, Terrell Owens, I thought one-time teammate and quarterback Jeff Garcia was flaming gay as say, Richard Simmons? Hate to be a defense attorney but this, right here, doesn't look gay to me. I think if Garcia is supposed to be gay then he didn't get the manual as to the rules. And if that's being gay, then sign me up the hell up today.

And for the politically correct posse out there -- be cool. It's a joke. Poking fun at Owens, not you. There are far greater offenses in this world.

No, there's no good-old boy network in sports. P.J. "Freakin'" Carlesimo just got hired by the Seattle SuperSonics -- that's the progressive nature of the NBA for you. Forget young blood. Let's just be real conservative, find an ancient white man. Sure that will excite the ticket-buying public. No wonder Rashard Lewis fled the coop and why Ray Allen was stoked to be in Boston. Bet rookie Kevin Durant is ready to suit it up, score 30 and suck. Guess Del Harris, Gene Shue and James Naismith weren't available.

Rockies Rap

Tell me again why Colorado outfielder Ryan Spilborghs was sent to the minors to begin the season while washed up John Mabry was kept around to do nothing? No, really, Rockies, we're listening. Don't be shy now. Speak up, you have the floor.

And just like Brandi Griffin of Purple Row told us, Garrett Atkins was going to heat up and likely produce big, especially in the second half of the season. O.K., the All Star game hasn't hit yet but Atkins is finally looking like the real thing again. As sickening as his bat has been he could still push 100 RBI in 2007. Not bad for a down year.

The truth is Rockies reliever Brian Fuentes isn't the hack he has looked like lately, blowing saves left and right. He simply fell out of that comfortable groove. He is still a talented arm who will be back. Manny Corpas is the guy to watch. He may not have the goods to close but he should be tested to see if he can surprise.

Do the right thing

Derek Fisher is leaving the NBA, at least temporarily, to care for his infant daughter with cancer.

It's easy to leave work when you're fat loaded, don't have a mortgage or other big financial burdens but that Fisher isn't trying to juggle basketball and family, especially when he is getting older, with limited time left in the Association, earns an ovation and salute from this space. Highly admirable, Fish. You're definitely manning up.

Happy Birthday

Former Rockies fastball-crushing beast Vinny Castilla turns 40 today, George Steinbrenner, who should buy the Rockies after selling the Yankees, just to show he can win here, is 77, former Broncos running back legend Floyd Little turns 55 and Raiders owner Al Davis is 78.

Rockies star, Avs kick up ice, Helton in love

2007-07-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Matt Holliday got what he deserved -- being named to the National League All-Star team by his peers. Brian Fuentes, despite a recent meltdown of epic proportions, was chosen too in spite of it all. Maybe Barry Bonds "homered" Holliday because the game is in San Francisco but the players, managers and coaches know who's better these days. Fuentes may be a rollercoaster ride but no Rockies pitcher has been to the game more than him. "Scoreboard," Fuentes says.

The Avalanche looks like it wants to play with the big boys again, signing free agents Scott Hannan and Ryan Smyth. Hannan is here to shore up the Colorado ole' defensive effort while Smyth is in town to be the gutty winger who can make things happen around the net. The Avs always had the public's attention with bold power plays off the ice. Maybe these moves aren't Patrick Roy or Ray Bourque but they are signs of competitiveness. No Chris Drury but it's still hope. Colorado got off the couch and did something again.

Maybe today Kobe Bryant was able to poop again, the stress all gone. After all, the Lakers did just extend Luke Walton for six years. O.K., maybe Bryant is still planning an escape from his own private Alcatraz.

Todd Helton is offering up kisses for former manager Don Baylor in a Troy Renck column, and you can just see the subtle backhanded slap, despite any future denials, at current manager Clint Hurdle and his, um, cough, cough -- flaws. Shhhhhhhh...let's keep it between us.

CU graduate John Douma played some pinball golf in winning the Colorado Open, bouncing a ball off the fence on the 18th, making par and going home with the biggest check of the day. Just not sure if he called bank shot to get it close for the putt.

By the way, think it's time for Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd to realize that with no moves his pitching staff is going to continue to resemble a forest fire this summer and Colorado is going to have some long losing streaks in the second half of the season. No excuses, just do something. Anything.

Nuggets Noise

Denver did nada in this year's NBA draft thanks to previous trades depleting their selections.

So, the question now is are there patchwork players out there who can help repair the holes on this team?

CNNSI.com thinks there might be.

The publication lists journeyman scorer Jerry Stackhouse as a possibility as well as long-range shooters Matt Barnes, Matt Carroll and DeShawn Stevenson.

Stackhouse would not bring the intangibles to town the Nuggets need. He's a runner and a scorer and not much else at this stage of his career. Barnes and Carroll could help as they would be outstanding limited minute players. Stevenson, a former Kansas Jayhawk commit who bypassed college to become the top draft pick of the Jazz, has never blossomed as expected yet is improving his game. He could provide size and athleticism and more predictability than wild horse J.R. Smith. Stevenson's shooting is also improving.

The WSN dirty lowdown? Here are two players of interest that could breathe some playoff life into the Nuggets, both of which would require some sign-and-trade wizardry -- Milwaukee point guard Maurice Williams and Charlotte scoring swingman Gerald Wallace.

The Nuggets need playmaking and backcourt point production balance and those two could provide it. Problem is that antiquated salary cap. Some massaging of the numbers would be necessary to bring either of those two cats a mile high.

Try to believe this if you will

Here we go again.

Someone trying to blame head injuries or steroids or just a fat, easy life for criminal, deviant, ugly behavior.

This time, the father of a former Purdue football player says concussions likely were the reason for his son twice putting on a homemade mask and then attempting to rape women.

The facts, after all the lying has been stripped down is this -- Kyle Williams, 21, a former elite recruit, simply chose to be a sexual opportunist and predator.

Case closed.

Just because I'm a man

Caught a feature on ESPN on Miami Dolphins star defensive end Jason Taylor, last season's NFL defensive player of the year and just have to say, his wife, Katina, well, that may have been his most impressive sack.

If I remember correctly she is the sister of teammate Zach Thomas.

But all that glitters is not gold.

Upon further review, the Taylor's marriage was on the rocks in the last year and the penalty for upsetting the Mrs. was going to be severe. So, for now, all is o.k., but subject to change. Fame doesn't protect one from very real human problems.

On the outside looking in, Taylor has a beautiful life full of career success, an attractive wife, healthy children, and charitable purpose but on the innnnnnnnside...it's reality and skeletons, just like the rest of us.

Happy Birthday

Celebrating today are Richard Petty (70), Billy Wagner (36), Jose Canseco (43), Karl Malone (44) and Joe Thornton (28).

WSN Big Bang Sunday Truth

2007-07-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

Early prognosis for the Broncos in 2007? Not good. They'll lose games they shouldn't on the road (the opener at Buffalo and at Kansas City) and at home (Jacksonville and Tennessee) and games they should (at Indy and Chicago and swept by San Diego) but to temper the shock the WSN initially is picking Denver to sweep the Raiders, top Pittsburgh, Green Bay and Minnesota at home, Detroit on the road, rough up Gary Kubiak's boys down Houston way and cross the finish line even-steven on the season at 8-8. The offense still lacks enough receivers, a surefire line, has a young quarterback who is going to make mistakes and the jury is still out on the pass rush.

As written here Friday, the Nuggets will be the medicine for that Broncos pain, winning the championship with D-League hero Von Wafer the shooting star to take pressure off Carmelo Anthony, Allen Iverson and Nene. At least that's what the Nuggets front office is selling right now. You buying?

The Rockies? They don't pretend to care about winning, only fielding a team that will "surprise."

Big Man on Campus

CU talent evaluators, beat writers and fans all know it's been a while since the Buffs have had an elite quarterback. Despite the gold being there for the taking no prep star has been interested. It's been even longer since Moses Moreno or Kelly Stouffer suited up for the Rams.

So what gives?

The answer to that question might lie in Tallahassee, where Florida State just got a verbal commitment from uber-prospect E.J. Manual.

One key in a recruit's mind might be the requisite proof that a school has actually produced a NFL first rounder or collegiate star of some magnitude, recently.

O.K., you respond to my query this way -- the Seminoles had Charlie Ward, who won the Heisman, but he played pro basketball, you fool! Chris Weinke was a star but stunk in the pros, you add. So how does slipping Florida State get Manual when all they currently have on the roster is Drew "Who?" Weatherford?

FSU scored Manuel with the Louisiana Purchase, thanks to top dog Bobby Bowden hiring Jimbo Fisher away from LSU to be his offensive coordinator. Fisher, you see, coached up JaMarcus Russell, the top overall pick in the draft.

Next up...basketball musings

So who is the next Jason Smith or Nick Fazekas from this state -- the next Colorado tree that can and will make it big? Makes me also wonder that if CSU could have found a way to sign Fazekas too, what the Rams could have been and what Fazekas would have done in Fort Fun alongside Smith.

By the way, remember the name Matt Bouldin. Not a frontcourt force but a crafty guard playing in a system suited for his skills at Gonzaga.

Want some dirt? CU's Richard Roby would have been drafted by the NBA on Thursday if he had decided to turn pro after Ricardo Patton sunk the ship last season but it would have been deep into the second round. Back for another taste of college basketball, with better coaching, if Roby will work on Jeff Bzdelik's chain gang, believe and regain the magic he's shown at times in Boulder, he will prove better than, count 'em, eight guards who went in round 1 in the 2007 draft. Looking for a comparison for Roby? Try Nick Young of USC, who went 16th to the Wizards. Young is more polished and consistent but Roby has greater potential because of his size and rebounding.

Nbadraft.net has compared former Texas A & M highlight show and Atlanta Hawk first rounder Acie Law IV to...Chauncey Billups. While the WSN has a definite appreciation for the clutch play of Law, he ain't no Billups.

That same publication likens Jason Smith to former Illinois standout and current Laker Brian Cook. Owwwwww, that hurt! Hey, it's all good -- Smith's going to turn out better due to his athleticism and ability to take the ball to the hole with more skill.

CU sophomore-to-be hoopster Jeremy Williams, a talented forward from Memphis, is ineligible for the fall semester. Do the Buffs even have five guys to suit up anymore? Williams just shot himself in the foot. His talent, a new coach who could bring out the best in him, a need for his very-visible skills on the floor and he will now be nothing more than a fan, an outcast until the spring semester.

Report card, Jeremy Williams

Decision Making, 101: F

Professor's comments: Should have gone to Nebraska, where he would have passed.

Now, before the baby coddlers bum rush me on that grading, let me admit I flunked Decision Making 101 in college, too. Numerous times. Not sure I ever passed that freakin' course. Daydreamed at the candy store with all those pretty girls, girls and more girls as well as indulging in the the occasional recreational idiocy. Thing is, I had zero talent, Williams does.

The Incorrigible

Ah, Isaiah Thomas back in the news, as always, borrowing from the Madonna and Dennis Rodman business model that the only bad publicity is no publicity. In the NBA draft, Thomas trades for thug Zack Randolph for talent reasons and now a former employee of the Knicks, Zanucha Browne Sanders, who is already suing Zeke's "6," as a former Marine friend of mine used to say, for sexual harassment is found to also be upset that Thomas asked a cheerleader to, at least, flirt with officials and not discipline star guard Stephon Marbury for cursing at Sanders. Here's the skinny, amigos -- Thomas thinks he's running a frat house and that he is an untouchable like his mentor -- the lovable, huggable Bobby Knight. That Thomas would find dirty little tricks to influence the game is nothing new. He was always known for being shady on the floor because of his great competitiveness. Using a cheerleader, well, that just makes Thomas the Knicks Pimp Daddy. Good thing he's one of the best players ever or he'd get dusted like Bill Hanzlik or Mike Evans did by the Nuggets.

Only in America

What's this I hear -- ESPN broadcaster Dan Patrick being contacted by CBS to audition to replace Bob Barker as host of The Price is Right? Why, because he's white, looks conservative and like a young Barker? What that show really needs is some flavor, like grocery store muzak, a new set not from the stone age and maybe even some price scanners for the contestants. How about Survival elements being mixed in too, like making people navigate aisles while in a hurry or cleaning up broken glass and spilled product to even play one of those foolish child-like games the show is known for. And as a host, what about some personality, say big boy comedian Ralphie May -- now that might even make that morning dreck worth watching.

Lightin' the cake

Pugilist Mike Tyson turned 41 Saturday, one of his greatest accomplishments. That he emerged alive from his upbringing and stayed alive with his lifestyle is amazing.

Today, former track and field star Carl Lewis showed up at the party 46 years old.

Nuggets falling; crystal ball; Knoxville truth

2007-06-30T01:42:00.000-07:00

The Nuggets took a big hit on draft night when Portland landed Greg Oden and other parts to go with Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge. If it doesn't materialize this season it will in a year from now when the Trail Blazers will pass Denver for years in the Northwest division standings.

Utah, with Deron Williams running the point, Carlos Boozer banging inside and an array of other complimentary parts will also keep the Jazz playing at a higher level than Denver.

The Sonics, for now, even with the additions of Kevin Durant and Jeff Green still have no interior defense or solid backcourt play and are not the Nuggets equal.

Minnesota is not going to rise up either.

So the Nuggets are now only the third best team in the Northwest and no better than the seventh-best team in the Western Conference, no matter how many in the media that believe they can be a power. Denver could even fall as far as ninth in the conference playoff race.

Crystal ball

The WSN can see it coming -- Kobe Bryant will get his wish to be traded.

No way he's going to call off the dogs on owner Jerry Buss' cajones on this one. Bryant will make life so miserable that Buss tells general manager Mitch Kupchak to schedule surgery with another team to remove the growing cancer that Bryant is becoming.

Want more?

Bryant will end up more miserable in his new digs and won't, repeat, won't win another title.

Things like this just happen. If you have to believe in something, believe this money statement.

No more titles!

Kobe is a player to remember but a dog of a person sort of like a San Francisco outfielder we all know. How about Bryant and Barry Bonds start making buddy movies as Chump and Hump.

Who are those boys

The Rockies look more like the Bad News Bears or the Royals every day. How does a team go 19-27, then 20-7, and now 0-8? Manager Clint Hurdle is going to end up getting whacked for such inconsistent play but he's not the hack on the mound each game. The pitching coach is not to blame either. It's the actors, the bad ones, who are listed on the roster as arms.

Jeff Francis gets a passing grade as does Aaron Cook. Rodrigo Lopez has been a surprise. In the bullpen, there have been some quality performances but overall, this group of pitchers is a joke. The Rockies will wait for Greg Reynolds to arrive but he's the only one even close as a starter to being major league ready and he alone will not turn the car around.

Only in Knoxville

So tell me how yet another Phil Fulmer football player can get in legal hot water, this time for the entrepreneurship of selling crack cocaine, and yet the coach keeps his job?

Fulmer is John Gotti all over again -- the Teflon Don. Win a national championship, win a lot of games and fill Neyland Stadium and you can near-annually have players getting handcuffed and photographed and the school administration still loves you and fails to worry about the image of the institution.

From 2005-06, 15 Vols were either arrested or cited for behavior unbecoming a solid citizen. But I guess Tennessee's colors are orange. Maybe the shade should be changed from creamsicle to jump suit orange.

Suppose for a moment, if you will, how long such similar behavior would be tolerated in Fort Collins, Colorado Springs or Boulder. Would Sonny Lubick, Troy Calhoun or Dan Hawkins be anything more than spoiled meat?

Hawkins should ask for refund

CU needs a home-run threat at running back. Thomas Perez was highly thought of but busted out academically. P.T. Gates was marketed as the next Reggie Bush but he too looks to be an academic fraud.

So who else, legitimately, can challenge pocket back Hugh Charles?

Opportunity has been created for a bunch of unknowns. The rest of the roster should smell blood in the water and seize the day and become someone.

Ram on the rise

CSU, it says here, has offensive talent that could really step forward in 2007.

We've mentioned running back Kyle Bell, tight end Kory Sperry and quarterback Caleb Hanie but how about receiver Damon Morton, who went from four catches to 48 and from 101 yards in receptions to 722?

Morton had eight quality games a season ago. If he can even out his performance and take his game to greater heights, say to 55 catches for 1,000 yards then the Rams are going to have the outside threat to complement Sperry underneath and Bell blasting through defenders in the running game.

Quarterback looking for love

Cade Cooper, a junior college standout at Snow College in Utah, is transferring from BYU. Any quarterback-hungry schools can start their sales pitches now. Remember, Snow once produced former Oklahoma standout Josh Heupel.

Final Salvos

Maybe it's just the WSN party punch getting to me but I'm truly jonesing for some Broncos training camp action. Come on now, it's been a little too long to ask one to wait for some more football.

We can close the season on the Rockies any day now. You wanna cry "uncle" or shall I?

So honestly, did Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd really think the pitching he put together was going to fool the National League for more than a couple of months?

Barry Bonds is now at number 750 and counting and wow, if that is not one large, pretty number. Give the man credit -- bombs of all sorts can be going off around him, whether they be steroid allegations or ex-mistresses coming out the woodwork to whack him, he never stops focusing on being a dangerous hitter, even at an age when most players are retired. Bonds is truly a freak show but he is also a special talent that has been thoroughly committed to producing greatness and for that, I have to salute him.

Quick, amigos, would you trade Nene for Yi Jianlian, the Milwaukee Bucks cranky draft pick?

Carmelo Anthony for Kobe Bryant?

What about Todd Helton, Joe Koshansky and Ian Stewart for Rangers big bat Mark Teixiera?

Javon Walker for Randy Moss?

Smith's travel plans change; Fazekas smiling

2007-06-29T00:20:00.000-07:00

What a few minutes for CSU's Jason Smith. Looking like he has a job offer for Miami, F-L-A, and not only that but he was set up to work with the amazing Dwyane Wade, Shaquille O'Neal, Alonzo Mourning and being able to soak up all that winning aura. Then, like that, poof, he's going to Philly to earn a living.

The good news is that Smith will play for the 76ers. They need any big man that can play. Smith will have to get stronger and accept the challenge of the Association but he should be a longtime pro.

Fazekas a lucky man

Ralston Valley High School and University of Nevada big man Nick Fazekas has already scored in the NBA.

Getting picked by Dallas, even if in the second round (expected), is like chasing the hot girl of your dreams, missing out on her and somehow ending up with someone even better. Yes, he'll make less money to begin with but going to a championship-level team that plays a finesse game with Dirk Nowitzki to learn from, well how perfect is all that!

This is a great set up for Fazekas and the WSN expects him to develop into a solid contributor for the Mavericks.

Nuggets Noise

Chirp, chirp.

Chirp, chirp.

Oh, just so you know, Von Wafer is the answer to Denver's hoop dreams.

Von Wafer.

NBA notes

By the way, love what Portland did, getting an defensive presence who is also a high-character guy in Greg Oden, an athletic wing and shooter in Rudy Fernandez, dumping selfish, immature Zach Randolph, picking Duke's Josh McRoberts, an athletic, explosive talent who can also block shots and shoot a little but still one giant enigma, in the second round, which will make him work to stick in the league, and finding Derrick Byars, another scorer, also in the second go-around.

Not a bad night's work for a scrub team starting the evening in the poll position.

Throw in that the Blazers already have Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge on the roster and Portland might again be a power and soon.

A +.

Seattle getting the sports car of the draft, Texas' Kevin Durant -- maybe one of the best consolation prizes in league history. Milwaukee bagging Yi Jianlian was a fantastic gift. Remember it. Now if they can just convince or brainwash him into loving Wisconsin. Forget all the slams against Yi. Yao Ming was supposedly a stiff when it came to athleticism, and weak to boot but last I checked he's not a punk, right? Remember this, as well -- Don Nelson and Golden State tried to trade up to get Yi. It was Nelson who pulled off the trade to get that big German some years ago, name of Nowitki. Know him? Nelson knows talent.

Other smart teams -- Atlanta for picking Al Horford and Acie Law IV; the Lakers for grabbing Javaris Crittenton to play the point; Utah for finding a shooter/scorer in Morris Almond (the Jazz are going to remain a factor in the West); Memphis making Mike Conley, Jr. it's floor leader; Charlotte, for being smart enough to cough up the rights to no. 8 overall selection Brandan Wright for Jason Richardson; Golden State for getting more size on the roster with Wright and also picking Italian Marco Belinelli, a shooter with other flaws that will likely be minimized in the Warriors running approach; the Clippers scoring point guard Jared Jordan in round 2; Chicago scoring wide-body Aaron Gray in round 2; and Detroit deciding on Rodney Stuckey, a physical scoring guard.

Personally, I'd swap Ray Allen (now a Celtic) for Allen Iverson right here, right now. Allen is what the Nuggets need and Danny Ainge long lusted after Iverson for Boston.

Milestone 2007

It's a season for record breaking in Major League Baseball and on Thursday two WSN Iron Dogs showed well as Craig Biggio collected career hit 3,000 in Houston's victory over the again hapless Rockies and Frank Thomas smoked home run numero 500 for his career. To be great you have to be very good for a long, long time. These two have done that and should be recognized for consistency and durability in a day when many get sidelined often.

Biggio is a Hall of Fame player and so is Thomas. They both did it the old fashioned way -- they worked for it. They also played for more than loaded paychecks.

Lost in translation

Biggio was the story in the Astros victory but there were other notes of interest. Aaron Cook showed up to pitch (one run over seven innings), showing his often-missing capability; Chris Iannetta reminded us he's still on the team (homered), Troy Tulowitzki continues his recent display of power (homered again); Ryan Spilborghs showed he has a place on this team (the sparkplug homered) and Brian Fuentes blew yet another save (what up, homey!). The Rockies -- this just in -- are schizophrenic. Fire manager Clint Hurdle and hire Dr. Phil.

Bad year farming

For those who are awaiting the next big thing out of the Rockies farm system in the coming months, primarily Triple-A Colorado Springs, don't expect anything much from the usual suspect -- Ian Stewart or many others. Fact is the organization's top prospects are stuck in the mud in 2007.

Stewart, a former no. 1 draft pick, isn't embarrassing himself but he hardly looks like the next great power source for Colorado either. Regardless of what some experts are writing, Stewart is not going to be ready for Coors Field this season. The best approach is to leave him in Colorado Springs now, bring him back to spring training and hope that the light goes on and his average rises and his bat starts crushing balls off fences and over walls.

Stewart isn't the only one not living up to the hype.

Outfielder Seth Smith, who was expected to have a big year, has been a disappointment as has pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez, a star that is burning out. Infielder Jayson Nix is showing life but is still nothing more than hardly adequate with the bat. He's not ready offensively and may never be.

The one man who gets an above-average grade is first baseman Joe Koshansky, who is a little older than most for Triple A. He's not homering at the same pace as the past (10 through June 27) but his average (.325) and acceptable strike zone-judgment make him attractive for a team not locked down with Todd Helton's contract.

The good news is that Double-A Tulsa is again producing talent. On the mound, starter Greg Reynolds, relievers Juan Morillo, Sam Deduno and Jarrett Grube and even Ryan Mattheus and Franklin Morales, two more starters, are showing real promise. If only a few of them register on the ricter scale then Colorado will be in much better shape at the big league level.

Here's how we have them rated at WSN, with the starters running like this: Reynolds, Mattheus, and Morales; the relievers hierarchy goes: Grube, Morillo, and Deduno. Remember we don't grade on "tools" and potential. We want and love production.

The breakdown? Reynolds knows how to pitch and will make the "bigs." Mattheus is smart and that goes a long way. He is not a top prospect but could be an end-of-the-rotation guy. Morales is one of the many teases in the organization -- million dollar arm but one that is too much for him to control. With a little restraint, he could become a force. Grube is the most developed reliever, a solid bet to reach Denver while Morillo and Deduno are big arms who don't live up to potential. Both could excel in The Show but could also end up being Joe Who's?

The only hitter of note is a graybeard, third baseman Christian Colonel, a 25-year old who was a fifth-round pick in the 2003 draft. Colonel isn't dominating (.310, 9 HRs, 47 RBI) but has been surprisingly productive. He's a longshot for Denver but could reach the majors elsewhere.

Final Salvo

Woodrow Paige, say it ain't so. You know what we mean. Don't tell us you went stupid as a big name at ESPN and thought you were bulletproof with women. I'd like to believe its' all a lie but not sure I can. That said, you are innocent before being proven guilty. You are innocent, aren't you? Or was that butt simply too good to pass up for a famous ESPN staffer?

Air Force AD Hans Mueh still has not forgiven Jeff Bzdelik for dumping the Falcons for CU. Who knows what the agreement was when Bzdelik was hired but this is the culture of athletics in this country. You prep for a better opportunity. Mueh should be happy for the shining moments that Bzdelik provided and try to take advantage of them. Privately, I think Mueh is raging and will not be satiated until Bzdelik "fails." That, I'm afraid, sir, is not going to happen.

NBA buffet, sexploits, recruiting

2007-06-28T04:37:00.000-07:00

If a proposed three-team trade goes down, as Yahoo Sports is reporting, with Kevin Garnett heading to Phoenix and Amare Stoudemire to Atlanta, then how much did those team do themselves right? Garnett is a better rebounder and passer, even if seven years older than Stoudemire, but does this move make the Suns better than the Spurs, and what about that megaton contract of KG's? Stoudemire in Atlanta sounds like a no-brainer but giving up two top-11 draft picks and a serviceable center in Zaza Pachulia leaves me rubbing my shaved dome. Stoudemire will sell tickets and help the Hawks get to the playoffs but this might not have been the best move for a franchise in need of a point guard. Maybe if it has the money to steal Chauncey Billups, Atlanta will have a team again.

Shedding Garnett's salary is the wise thing to do for Minnesota. That project just wasn't working and wasn't going to anytime soon. If the Timberwolves score, as reported, those two coveted draft picks, and if it can be astute in using them, they can remake the mix of the franchise quickly. The question that remains and looms large is will that be adequate compensation for KG? No, not really, but stopping the financial bleeding of that contract as well as separating from an unhappy partner is a very good thing for future flexibility and chemistry.

The WSN is all for Kevin Durant as the top pick in the NBA draft but Jim Armstrong of the Denver Post makes a powerful opening statement for Greg Oden. The biggest concerns regarding Oden, at least in this space, are his injury history and apparent lack of passion on the court, not his talent level.

And congratulations to Jason Smith of CSU, who is about to get rewarded for his college basketball education. No more scrapping for pizza money. It's time to get paid. Check out a fantastic article by Kelly Lyell of the Coloradoan detailing former pro coaches and players opinions of the Rams big man.

Here it comes, just as predicted, and it was only predicted because it's an annual event -- the Rockies summer nose dive. The pitching is awful, the hitting average and all those feel-good moments from a hot streak are being stained by a six-game (and counting) losing streak. So is management trying to find answers or is it going to allow the team to again sink out of the divisional race, holding on to, as most loser organizations do, the motto "wait 'til next year."

Poor Barry Bonds. Seriously. For once, you have to feel for the creep. It appears his ex mistress (dummy!) is about to spill all about their sex life. Now how unbelievably wrong is that! Not even a schmuck like Bonds deserves such a knife, does he? Of course, if he's the Superman sexually that he is on the baseball field, then this might be very good PR, and something to talk about other than steroids. But if he really took dope and his mistress noticed, this could, um, be, you know, embarrassing.

Feeling lonely? Try catching a Tampa Bay Buccaneers home football game. The courts have said the team can continue pat-down searches for security purposes. Honestly, I've been patted down before, had my pants pulled away from my waist (that wasn't a gun) and while it is mildly irritating, considering it is in the name of safety for all of us, I think I can handle the fondling or having someone run a device over my body so I don't up as Middle East mincemeat one day.

Look at the number -- 340. How does a pitcher win that many games? Greg Maddux just did. Color me a big fan, and I hate that word, of the old goats still laying brick -- Maddux, Roger Clemens, Tom Glavine, and Randy Johnson. To be as good as they have all been for so long is really a sight. The very big truth is this -- the game needs them, especially with all the cheating amongst hitters in years past coming to light in recent seasons.

Did you see former stud quarterback recruit Zach Frazer, who packed up and left Notre Dame, is now looking at Cincinnati and Connecticut? Cincinnnnnnati and UConn. Think those two schools would have gotten a look when Frazer was in high school? Not knocking going for the glitz and the dream as an 18-year old but if some preps would actually take a moment and look at the variables that could affect that dream, such as all the other highly-regarded players at their position at the school that excites them and think with their big head instead of their little one, they wouldn't be bottomed out on the depth chart and looking for new digs often.

Huh? Don't think this guy has been introduced to CU linebackers' coach Brian Cabral. Penn State has produced some boys who can get to the ball but who was the last great Nittany Lion at that position? Ted Johnson was a rock until injuries tore his body up. Chad Brown was a playmaker, Greg Biekert was underrated. Even Hannibal Navies has earned some dough in the League. Maybe the prep should have said, if you want to be the best in Pennsylvania, you go to Penn State.

Let's see if I have this right -- apologists are swirling around for pro wrestler Chris Benoit, who, fresh off strangling his wife to death and suffocating his child, hung himself. It seems, we hear, that steroids might be to blame. Sort of reminds me of mothers who get a pass for killing their children from feminists on the basis of post-partum depression. Not saying steroids don't have a negative effect or that post-partum depression doesn't exist but sometimes you just have to admit people are bad, as in KILLERS. Sorry, but in this court of opinion there are no passes for killing unless you're a soldier, where the job sometimes require something unseemly.

Rockies woes, Buffs and Falcons lose

2007-06-27T05:25:00.000-07:00

Loving the Rockies typical summer swoon (five games and counting). The pitching has disappeared and Colorado looks like the big chump it was earlier this season. Oh, they'll come out of it, they always do after a prolonged fog, but the question is how many games will they lose in the standings before they do? This is an annual pattern. The ultimatum? Don't be so tight fisted on prospects. Look to make a deal for pitching first, an impact bat second. Prospects are unproven. Look for established veterans.

Now is the time for the Nuggets to be creative and aggressive. They should be a good team in 2007-08 but how good? Playoff success good? Contender worthy? Doubtful unless they bring in more than a rookie free-agent shooter. Said it before -- the WSN thinks the boys in the Denver front office are workin' it and will take some mighty cuts to make something flashy and positive happen on draft night. Perimeter shooters, a lockdown defender and a jolt of chemistry-inducing character are all on the wish list. An acquisition doesn't have to be through the draft, it could be in the form of a veteran.

CSU and CU kicking off at 10 a.m.? What, a 7 o'clock in the morning spot wasn't available? Hey, getting on TV is very important for these two schools but how ready to hit and be hit is someone by 10 a.m.? Maybe the fan doesn't care, who knows. The players will adjust. They have no choice. Regardless of the necessity of this move, it's still ridiculous.

CU and Air Force not being to use their brain power to create a football series -- disappointing. Would be great local theater. Could have happened with some effort, desire and will. Should have happened. Didn't happen. Truly, what it came down to was that CU didn't want the competition to actualize itself.

CU coach Dan Hawkins does have a point about a series potentially limiting dates with marquee schools but the Buffs and Falcons don't have to play every season. How about a home-and-home series that takes place once in a while?

Buffs elite running back recruit P.T. Gates is looking iffy to be eligible come fall. The JUCO star simply is not a classroom stud. He was a gamble Hawkins had to take because Gates had the talent CU needed and he was willing to commit while many other stars laughed at the offer.

Billups and boys looking, lusting for more

2007-06-26T04:20:00.000-07:00

Think Chauncey Billups has a sweet deal or what?

His wife or his girlfriend, depends on how you choose to look at the Pistons, still want a relationship with the former George Washington High School and Colorado Buffaloes shooting star but they know that Billups has the itch, being antsy to play the field, get some attention, and score.

The Pistons don't like it one bit but they are still in love. They know if they say "it's us or the highway" that Billups will say. "o.k., the highway" so instead they bite their lip and hope with all their might that all the sexy voices with deep pockets don't make a strong connection to take Billups away from them.

This could still work out, I suppose but it doesn't usually doesn't, does it?

Relocating fantasies

O.K., everyone is burnt out and wants to move on in the NBA.

O.K., maybe not everyone but some big names are fed up and want out of town.

So, forget about the stupid money math that has to line up to make a deal and let's just find compelling situations for these yahoos.

First up, Kobe Bryant. Let's take his fathead ego and put it in Chicago, where he desires and see if he can handle the Ghost -- Michael Jordan, and all his trophies.

Ship Kevin Garnett to Houston in exchange for Tracy McGrady and some spare parts. This allows KG to play with Yao Ming, which is a gift he deserves. Of course, today there are rumors Garnett could end up in L.A. with Bryant, which while media worthy does not necessarily make the Lakers markedly better, especially when you consider the subtraction includes Lamar Odom. All such a trade would do would be massaging of massive egos.

Jermaine O'Neal to the Nuggets. That's right, to Denver. Cough up Marcus Camby and Nene and move whatever other guys from team to team to make it work, as long as you can do it without Carmelo Anthony being included.

Hey, I don't like, at all, giving up Camby or Nene but O'Neal is a better all-around talent than both of them.

Quick hits

Give CU coach Dan Hawkins credit. Publicly, he is positive and resilient over almost anything, including foodgate. He seems to believer or understand that obstacles or cheap shots come your way in this life and there is no use complaining about them. Just sac' up and move on.

Talking about the Buffs, they do a great thing for the fans, if they can build up the program first, by signing up for a home-and-home series with West Virginia. If CU can get pump up its' talent level, and get the program out of first gear, CU-WVU could turn into exciting viewing. CU also is going to play more arena football, agreeing to a series with Hawaii. Maybe that also helps the school in its' recruiting efforts on the islands. It did lose its' series with North Carolina in football, which the Buffs will be compensated for, because the Tar Heels also rejected a basketball series. What?!

Those Rockies, just when you think you've corrected their ways as children, they go back to their loser tendencies, primarily because they can't pitch a lick.

Eduardo Najera is leaning towards not opting out of his contract, thinking Denver is still the place for him. On a winning team, Najera is a great fit for all the intangibles he brings. That winning team might be the Nuggets but it also might be someplace else through trade next season.

Former Nuggets star Fat Lever is working a basketball camp in Boulder. Man, still miss that dude. Little man with the big, big heart, rebounding, passing and o.k., shooting too much. He was a winner.

Lever said in a Daily Camera story that Allen Iverson is not the Answer if Denver wants to win a championship. Disagree. Maybe he isn't the answer but it is not outside the realm of possibility for Iverson to win a title with the Nuggets. The WSN did not like the trade to bring A.I. here but the team's obstacles to winning it all don't all lie on his head.

Happy Birthday

Shannon Sharpe turns 39.

Can you believe Derek Jeter turns 33 today?

And the great Greg Lemond is 46.

Broken bodies and accountability

2007-06-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

Look in the mirror, at least a little, will you, those who complain.

A story getting big play right now is about benefits, or the lack of for former NFL players, and it's one hot issue.

The question is -- who should pay?

The players think the League has completely failed them and maybe, in the case of long-retired players, that's true. But something that isn't getting asked or written about is how much of the responsibility lies with the players, both current and former?

Shouldn't people who make a fantastic living, knowing full well the risks of the profession, think of another career endeavor if they fear crippling consequences? Should they also debate living like kings or rock stars while they are playing, instead choosing to sock heavy dough away for the post-career medical costs? Shouldn't current players also come together to help those from the past?

This should not all be about the League and the union, should it?

There are a lot of sad stories out there that will appeal to anyone with a heart but it's like me smoking for a lifetime then asking where's my help when I contract lung cancer. Playing football is like being a coal miner. You know you are going to an early grave doing it but it pays too well for you to make an alternative decision.

Writers gone wild

Ideas, by themselves, should not be discouraged.

Yet, questionable quality always should be.

Reading some Denver columnists musings regarding ideas about the Rockies personnel was startling, as in made little sense.

Seems to me that some esteemed writers who I hold in high regard believe that Garrett Atkins could or should be moved for more pitching, with some even believing the organization has major league-ready bats on tap.

False.

Atkins is having a disappointing and putrid season that defies explanation but are we supposed to bury our heads in the sand and completely forget his two prior campaigns and just sell him off as distressed property? Maybe then, we can watch him hit 25 homers and drive in 100 runs for another team.

And how about the idea to promote last year's number one pick, Greg Reynolds, currently in Double-A, now? Remember the name Ubaldo Jimenez? Cruised through Double-A last year and then looked like a lost boy in Denver. Now he barely looks like a prospect at Colorado Springs, with no signs of past dominance. Long-lost Rockie Jamey Wright also dominated Double-A and look what happened to him.

And the Rockies dealing Aaron Cook? Here's a guy who has been falsely touted as a potential ace for who knows how long (not his fault) but trading him? While the guy is a no. 3 starter at best and probably best suited to be a no. 4, where a lot of pressure would be off him to perform, he still has real value, although he is starting to remind me of former Rockie underachiever John Thomsen. That said, he could be a very good arm in that spot in the rotation. Use Jeff Francis as your anchor, and Rodrigo Lopez, for now, as your next arm, followed by the mess that is the rest of the bunch.

No doubt this team needs pitching but will come in time from the farm system, or when two many bats prove to be quality or when a free agent realizes Coors Field doesn't play like it used to and a pitcher really can be successful here, especially if he can control and command his fastball while also possessing a slider and change up.

Final Salvo

Happy birthday to Dikembe Mutombo, who is 41-years young today. Still playing pro basketball, still showing signs of his brilliant past. Still making an impact in the world away from the court.

WSN Big Sunday Truth

2007-06-24T00:26:00.000-07:00

Going to say it right here, right now -- Colorado preps are going to impress on NBA draft night next week. We all know about Kersey's Jason Smith's attractiveness to scouts but Ralston Valley's Nick Fazekas is wowing scouts too. Fazekas looks as weak as a runway model but his skill set is so strong that he will still thrive. Once he gets to the pro game, hires a nutritionist and personal trainer he will put on 15-20 pounds to at least give himself a chance to survive the rigors of the Association against the muscle hounds he will face. Both of those trees will exceed the pro contributions of former CU center and current Indiana Pacer David Harrison, he of solid talent but questionable motivation.

If there is one intangible to admire about new quarterback Jay Cutler it is his apparent comfort zone with the expectations and pressure that go with being the Broncos quarterback. Brian Griese and Jake Plummer each had their shining moments in Denver and looked the part of Cool Hand Luke in moments but come the tough times, both wilted. Cutler may too but there is a vibe that the guy has some cowboy in him, a rough-and-tumble dude who will roll with the punches and shut people up with his determination, competitiveness, will and talent.

When did Vanderbilt become a jock school, a sports factory? With Cutler (NFL), pitcher David Price the first overall pick in the Major League Baseball draft (Devil Rays), reliever Casey Weathers the eighth choice to the Rockies and Derrick Byars expected to go in the first round of the NBA draft this week, the Commodores look more like Texas than they do Stanford.

2006 NFL draft, one-year review

Vince Young, Tennessee
---Showed electric running ability, leadership skills and a winner's edge. Too bad he resembles Michael Vick as a passer right now.
Matt Leinart, Arizona
---In a difficult situation in Arizona, a loser's paradise, but with an offensive line and better coaching, he could become the heady, steady leader and premier passer he was drafted to be.
Jay Cutler, Denver
---Gunslinger who looked stiff and mechanical but showed flashes of big, big talent too.

Walt Weiss was solid, Neifi Perez certainly had his moments and Juan Uribe showed promise of a thunder bat but none of them flashed "IMPACT" like current Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. Maybe he never makes an All-Star game, maybe he doesn't go to the hall of fame but if the cat stays healthy, he is going to be a Derek Jeter-type influence in Colorado -- the glue, money and a strong heartbeat for this franchise.

Cha-ching. Do you hear the cash register ring with each season outfielder Matt Holliday puts in the books? His price tag for Colorado or any new suitor just keeps going up and he just might become too rich for the Monfort family's taste. Remember this one mighty big detail -- the very last thing the Rockies want to do is dole out another Todd Helton anchor-to-the-bottom-of-the-ocean contract, which again proves to be one big hammy for the organization if Holliday gets hurt and can't produce at previous levels of excellence. Not many teams have been taken to the cleaners hard like Colorado has over the years with bad deals -- Bill Swift, Bret Saberhagen, Daryl Kile, Denny Neagle and Mike Hampton. Watching Holliday walk one day soon is a very real possibility. Brace yourselves.

Final Salvos

Yo, Blazers, don't go dumb now. Forget Greg Oden, a broken-down horse already, even if a rare thoroughbred, and go with Texas freak of nature, Kevin Durant as the first overall pick. If you don't have the stones to do so, trade out of the top spot so you don't end up with egg all over your face -- again. LaRue Martin, Sam Bowie, need we say more.

Dan O'Dowd, don't be shy. Sack up and look hard for a trade that will improve you for the next three-to-five years. Don't look beyond that as too much changes. Rockies fans deserve some hope. Give it to them. Trade prospects if necessary to get some punch in the lineup and a front-line starter, if available. You don't have to make a deal but you better sell out trying.

Dan Hawkins, hate to say it but allowing your son to sign with CU was a bad idea. Unless Little Hawk becomes all that and a bag of chips, you will suffer with low blows over nepotism while also struggling to bring in a top quarterback recruit outside of Idaho for the next few seasons because they won't trust you to make an unbiased decision on the starter's job.

Allen Iverson proved the naysayers (like me) wrong with his play in Denver. He can change his supposed stripes and go from being primarily a street baller to good teammate and still have an impact because you showed team play is not foreign to you. That said, you're not going to win here either until the front office brings a quality 2-guard, and some better role players to town. Playoff celebrations also won't happen until this group can pass a chemistry test.

Marcus Camby, hey, how did you like being named the best defensive player in the entire Association and then have people, almost exclusively the media have the temerity to question your ability on that end of the court? Wow. Yeah, Tall Cool One, I thought all that was real funny too. Better yet, now there is talk of shipping you out of town even though you are the best middle man in this basketball wasteland since Dikembe Mutombo. That, well, not so funny.

D.J. Williams, time to show up for work, brother. You've been over-hyped since you first hit campus in Coral Gables. You've given us glimpses of talent here in Denver but how about busting out in 2007 and showing us what you're all about as a linebacker in that Broncos "D." I think there's mad game in you somewhere. How 'bout getting hungry to make plays?

Speaking of getting hungry

Was thinking of taking y'all to lunch today up Boulder way but word on the street is that CU shut down the gravy train on discounted meals. I know that every five-star recruit in the country just crossed the Buffs off their preferred-school list. See, it's not playing time, party atmosphere or academics that lures the big fish and it's not even being groomed to go pro in a winning program or TV face time; no, see, instead it's all about the cafeteria food. Who knew, amigos? For this blatant transgression, CU is getting punished. Lost now is all hope of a Big 12 title and a national championship, I'm sure. God bless the NCAA infractions committee. Justice served. I'm sure they can sleep better at night knowing they policed the ranks like the gestapo they are. Anyway, can I still get a cookie?

Happy Birthday

Broncos cornerback supreme Champ Bailey turned 29 on Friday, the same day rags-to-riches quarterback Kurt Warner woke up 36 years old.

Today, former CU punter Mitch Berger's birth certificate shows him to be 35.

Rockies bully Yankees, CU gets first rounder

2007-06-22T05:02:00.000-07:00

Colorado sweeps the Yankees. Sweeeeeeeeeps the Yannnnnnnkeeeees. Wow. This group of misfits (18-27) has really stepped up (20-7 over last 27 games) and become someone. What kind of brew is being stirred in the clubhouse? Look at the standings, rub your eyes and realize the Rockies are in the divisional race. If the pitching isn't a mirage, if the offense continues to improve and if, if, if the team makes a power play for a veteran, who knows what might be possible -- a wild card? Colorado still needs another bat and another proven pitcher if it is going to be anything this season. If it sits on the roster, the Rockies will fade.

So the question is -- would you trade prospects for a chance to win now? Todd Helton is unmovable. Garrett Atkins should be, despite his lousy season. Yes, Ian Stewart has solid potential, yes Joe Koshansky has talent, yes Greg Reynolds looks like a major leaguer but if the right bat, the right arm is out there you have to step away from the wall, put yourself out there and go for gold.

Beating Roger Clemens, even these days, when he should only be doing commercials, is a special accomplishment. Look at all the Hall of Famers fans saw at Coors Field on Thursday -- Clemens, Derek Jeter, and Alex Rodriguez -- and yet the Rockies win. Does it get any better than that?

I see where Troy Renck of the Denver Post used the word "ace" and Aaron Cook in the same sentence. Does Cook play cards? Hey, I love the guy but he never was, isn't and will never be a pitching ace. He's a middle-of-the-rotation guy who can surprise once in a while. Case closed. Drive home safely.

The Sporting News has picked Rockies outfielder Matt Holliday as an All Star but snubbed crafty lefty Jeff Francis. Holliday deserves the lust but Francis does too, as he has been stingy on the mound in both the National and American leagues.

FoxSports.com shockingly stabbed Holliday in the back in deference to Barry Bonds. Show me the math on that one, please.

NCAA misguided

Here we go again. The NCAA blasts CU for meals violations?

Meals violations.

As in undercharging athletes.

Yet, steroids, no big deal.

Yet, USC and Reggie Bush got away with big-time fraud.

Yet, Notre Dame gets its' own network and now the SEC wants its' own too.

What about Nebraska's weight room or Texas' budget?

All those aren't superior advantages that most don't have?

Do they see how much of a joke they are?

Not saying that what CU did was right but to pee your pants and mete out your little man-justice looks weak.

The NCAA, like the IRS, should be blown up, figuratively speaking.

Nuggets Noise, Smith drafting, Roby's failure

The Nuggets need a big shooting guard who can flat out fill it up. The good news is there are guys like that out there this year and if Denver sits on its' hands and does nothing, it will only have itself to blame come next season when it loses early in the playoffs. I'm getting the strong feeling, yes I am, that the boys in the front office have something cooking for draft night. They know they don't have enough in the backcourt to go deep in the playoffs and that they have to make it happen now to make it happen then.

Think me off my rocker but CSU forward Jason Smith will be drafted ahead of former McDonald's All-American and Dukie Josh McRoberts and Brazilian big man Tiago Splitter. He'll end up being better than both and get this, better than Florida star Joakim Noah. That said, Smith won't be a starter in the Association, but instead a quality backup.

If CU guard Richard Roby wouldn't have had his confidence shattered this season, if he would have brought it hard every game, he would have ended up a top-15 pick. Jeff Bzdelik is very happy that didn't happen as he now gets to coach his first year in Boulder with a first-rounder on his team.

Maybe I'm drunk on optimism but my first blind look into next winter has me ready to say CSU basketball is going to be highly competitive and its' going to win some games it likely shouldn't while CU is going to push for an NIT bid (but fall short) even without one quality big man on the roster. Man, I am drunk!

Sweeping the Nation

Former Rockies catcher and Marlins manager Joe Girardi stiffs the Baltimore Orioles, who wanted him to manage their franchise. The truth, amigos? Joe G. turned down the job for one reason -- he didn't want to get fired again. And with Peter Angelos the owner, that was a distinct possibility. Girardi realized that better opportunities would arise, possibly in, are you ready for this -- Colorado, St. Louis, or with the Yankees (for whom he played) or White Sox.

A little advice for NBA Finals MVP Tony Parker. Life is good -- don't get married. Not even to Eva Longoria. Dude, it's a Hollywood marriage, you both travel, she's a mini-star, you're a star, hate to say it but it won't last. Go out for Chinese and don't come back. Save yourself, save each other. Try to trust me on this one. You go the other way and I'm giving you and her 3 years, tops and a bomb of emotional carnage.

O.K., brothers, just thought you might like to know this.

Now, getouttahere. Hope to see you back soon.

CU saved, Marshall scoped, Mutombo loved

2007-06-21T05:09:00.001-07:00

Some CU fans longed for New Mexico State's Reggie Theus to replace Ricardo Patton as men's basketball coach, which really was a fresh, bold idea. It would have also proven to be a poor one as Theus has just been sold himself with smoke and mirrors to coach the Sacramento Kings, saying, ignorantly "I'm an NBA guy coaching in college." Theus, it says here, will get chewed up and spit out, regardless of his NBA-guy claim, and end up back in the college game, where he can be a dynamic coach.

You'd think college coaches like Theus would be paying attention to the pro failure morgue of Carlesimo, Kruger, Floyd, Hamilton, and Calipari. The smartest cats, like Coach K and Roy Williams, never take the bait. Even Billy Donovan reneged on Orlando before it was too late.

CSU is excited about the commitment of Andre McFarland. The 6-foot-6, 220-pound forward sounds, if you listen to coach Tim Miles, like he's full of heart and a winning mentality. If he can play too, well, the Rams might have themselves somebody.

Broncos on tap

So, we know what Broncos wide receiver Javon Walker can be but what about Brandon Marshall? What's his upside? His strong qualities are size, strength, blocking and aggressiveness. What he lacks is speed and polish. The book is still open on him as no one really knows what he will become. He had but two quality games as a rookie. However, if he applies himself to his craft, if he is willing to be humble and learn from Walker and grandpa Rod (Smith), there are enough positives he could evolve into a second-tier pass catcher and an all-around player. The next two seasons will tell all.

Tight end Tony Scheffler will never be Shannon Sharpe but he could turn out to be a long-time starter because of his size, soft hands and mojo with quarterback Jay Cutler. He just has to stay healthy, block better and learn the nuances of the game.

You have to wonder about the defensive-line rotation now that Denver has brought Big Daddys Sam Adams and Jimmy Kennedy to town to go with fellow mountain, Gerard Warren. Where do rookie Marcus Thomas and interior short stack Elvis Dumervil figure into the mix? Will say it now, if the Broncos don't lose track of ED, he could explode this season as a pass rusher, although you have to wonder if the team also feels that way with its' draft-heavy run on lineman.

Nuggets Noise on Mutombo, defenders, draft

One of this space's favorite all-time athletes is Dikembe Mutombo.

Maybe it's because he was something the Nuggets never had before him -- a personable, brash, fly-swatting board hog who just happened to be good people. What impresses more than his basketball accomplishments is his humanity -- his love and passion for others far less fortunate and his will to to pour his heart into big change, as his hospital and research center project in the Republic of Congo proves-- showing the capability that athletes have to make a profound difference.

His example of what an athlete can accomplish with his fame and riches is something that all pro sports commissioners should look at and realize should be shared at every rookie symposium when athletes enter the pro ranks. Hope all the commissioners are listening. Make it happen. It shouldn't be about winning the lottery, getting 'fat' with materialism and easy livin'. Here is my closing statement your honor:

This world is and will long be a better place, because for the time that Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean Jacque Wamutombo walked and lived this life, he gave all of himself and showed, yes, showed love for people, not dollars, realizing that power comes in giving, not hoarding, as many of his contemporaries fail to understand.

His name, his time on this earth will long live and be respected.

No, this is not a eulogy.

For the record, letting him leave town for Atlanta years ago was one of the absolute dumbest, and most stupid moves ever in Denver sports history. It was obvious then and remains so today. The Nuggets looked like buffoons for that bumbling behavior.

Former Nuggets guards T.R. Dunn and Elston Turner are now settling down in Houston, assistants to new Rockets coach Rick Adelman. Ah, remember the days of Denver defending in the backcourt? Dunn and Turner were sickly shooters but could jock up an opponent.

Most likely to be traded come NBA draft night?

Future draft picks
Eduardo "Senor Grit" Najera
Nene
Marcus Camby

Rockies Rap

Former Rockies player Joe Giradi, who was widely respected for his dugout work in Florida before getting dismissed is apparently going to become the next manager of the Baltimore Orioles. Great choice...for the "O's." Who knows if being owner Peter Angelos' pool boy will be rewarding for Joe G. but it will be interesting to see if the manager can make the whole greater than the sum of the less-than-impressive parts Baltimore fields each game. Seeing Girardi compete against his ex-boss -- the Boss, George Steinbrenner -- will be entertaining, especially if the Orioles can work over the Yankees a little bit.

Colorado pitcher Jeff Francis has been a successful find and development for the franchise. He is fast becoming one of the better lefty pitchers in the game.

Garrett Atkins will again hit for power one day. Todd Helton won't. He's cooked. He's no more than an expensive singles and doubles hitter. He's the modern-day Mark Grace or Tony Gwynn with the stick. That said, Atkins lack of pop and production has killed the Rockies offense this season. They need power in that lineup and no one has been a bigger drain on it than the third baseman. He's not the only big bat doing little this season, however. There is something going on in the game that no one is writing about that I know of and that is, overall, power numbers are down. Not saying anything more than that -- I don't have to.

Rightfielder Brad Hawpe's arm gets toasted for it's strength and accuracy, as well it should. He is Larry Walker-esque with it. Now, if he could only hit like the Canadian. At least he's not the constant in-patient that Walker was so hey, he's got that goin' for him. If Hawpe can continue his powerful plate production he will take a step to another level as a player, at which point, he should be immediately dealt for a large booty, as he isn't likely to ever be a consistent 25-homer, 100-RBI guy.

Most likely trade chum for Colorado this summer if it decides to sell

Aaron Cook
Josh Fogg
Brian Fuentes
Yorvit Torrealba
Brad Hawpe
Jeremy Affeldt
Willy Taveras

Sweeping the Nation

Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Bonds have or had the competitive fire to be great. They all achieved elite numbers but they are going to find that allegations of steroid use will not bring them the public adulation after their playing days that they had hoped. It is going to be a real awakening for them. Lying about it all, as Pete Rose has found out, won't bring forgiveness. The sad reality is all these men were so talented at their sport they could have still been names for the ages without dabbling into the dark areas of possible cheating.

Linkin' you Up

Mile High Report (Broncos)

Things work out for Brown, Rams will rise

2007-06-20T05:04:00.000-07:00

Former CU standout Chris Brown doesn't end up, as predicted by some media reports, in Chicago, where he would have been a good fit back in his home state, but instead decides to stay rooted in the South, resigning with the Tennessee Titans, where, if healthy, he will be a lock to be the team's starter, considering Travis Henry is now a Bronco, Lendale White doesn't want to act like a pro and is a future washout and draftee Chris Henry is more workout warrior than productive groundhog.

New CSU basketball coach Tim Miles says his job will be one of the biggest rebuilding jobs he's had. AD Paul Kowalczyk told me the program is a long ways away from where he hopes it will be. Yet, it says here, with Miles enthusiasm and Kowalczyk's proven history of success that there will be excitement on the floor, facilities and recruiting will improve and Rams basketball will become a factor in the Mountain West Conference within four seasons.

Funny how some in the NFL believe that Jake "the Flake" Plummer will one day return to play. Plummer could make things happen on the field but after experiencing the circus that was Arizona, then being dealt from Denver, a winning organization for rebuilding Tampa just plain ticked him off. Not motivated by money we all hear, it is doubtful that former Bronco will suit up again. Look for him to enjoy travel and maybe one day end up as an studio analyst maybe making connections with a new receiver, Keyshawn Johnson.

Know Chone Figgins? Remember that he was a fourth-round pick of the Colorado Rockies back in 1997? Well, he was, and that little fire starter just made news by banging out six hits in a game for the Angels against Houston on Monday. The diminutive one with the big game is a career .285 hitter, who over the last three seasons has averaged seven homers, 60 RBI and 49 steals. As an old friend of mine, a Red Sox fan (not mentioning names, Mike Rogers), used to ask me, why can't the Rockies get players like him?

So CU has lost Texas wide receiver verbal Chance Blackmon, supposedly because his pops believe Colorado is too far away from home. Bull. The reason Blackmon is now supposedly giving the Buffs the cold shoulder is as simple as "2-10." Word is that the other highly-touted WR recruit, Corey Surrency could also fly the coop. Once Dan Hawkins team starts posting winning records and earning bowl victories these kinds of things will stop.

The Rams have offered John Elway's quarterback son a scholarship. That's sweet, isn't it? Romantic. It's also like me sending an invitation to a party to Jessica Alba. Think she'll come?

The Yankees will be in town and regardless of their record, that series should still be a must-have ticket. Throw in future Hall of Famers on New York's roster and well, can you help me get a seat?

Rockies rookie catcher Chris Iannetta has fallen flat on his face this season but it would be foolish to forget how fast he rose through the farm system. He appeared ready for Denver. He wasn't. He would be best served by getting a little refresher course in Colorado Springs, where he can play and rebuild his confidence. There is no reason he can' still become a quality starter who can hit for average with moderate thunder in his bat while showing acceptable defensive and game-calling skills.

Nene has announced he's not too bright and the Nuggets just sigh. The big forward has decided he will play for Brazil's national team this summer. Huh? All we heard in 2006-07 was his body hurt like hell and with LaPhonso Ellis and Kenyon Martin's careers being significantly downgraded due to broken-down bodies, we really don't want to hear about Nene exposing his legs to more risk. Thought the big Brazilian got married? Where is Mrs. Nene when you really need her, unplugging this foolish decision.

Go read the Daily Camera and try to contain yourself over the motley crew of free agents the Nuggets have brought to town for mini camp. Mateen Cleaves is the big name but the problem there is the guy last was relevant as a player like, oh, I don't know when.

Sweeping the Nation

How big is a golfer when the birth of his child is big news to media outlets. Congratulations to you, Tiger Woods, that's what fame brings. Next up, the paparazzi will be digging in your trash, jamming a camera in the face of your baby and your wife and if you react poorly the world will judge you. While you are too classy to do such a thing, personally I wouldn't blame you if you
go Sean Penn on them all.

Word in the wind says that the NBA is upset that Portland and Seattle scored the top two picks in the draft and thus will be able to grab elite talents Greg Oden and Kevin Durant away from the East coast where the NBA would like to have those players for marketing purposes. Well, guess what? This East coast sense of entitlement is stink. And this idea that the NBA will suffer financially on a serious level without Oden and Durant is just sour grapes. Tough. The league instituted one of the biggest jokes in sports with the draft lottery so if Boston or whomever didn't land the big fish then look in the mirror and shut the hell up.

Am I old if I ask if tennis even exists as a sport anymore? Growing up, never played it but always would flip through channels if I could get my father off of watching golf (which I did play) to check for baseball and yes, tennis, because there was always a big name in action (Bjorn Borg, Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and many others). Then as I grew up there was still Pete Sampras and wild child Andre Agassi. These days, who is there -- Roger Federer? Who is he? Is that the name of my accountant?

Warrior voices

From Greg Greene, who believes this space's assessment that CU's men's basketball program will be better off in the long run than Kansas State's supernova of a program due to the coaches in the equation -- Jeff Bzdelik and Frank Martin.

"Truth, I disagree with you on the future of Kansas State's men's basketball. I think Frank Martin will win and win big in Manhattan, and I also believe he will be able to replenish his squad with blue-chip prospects. The man can flat-out RECRUIT. Martin will surprise to the upside. Wait and see."

Greg, Greg, Greg. Contrary to popular belief I love optimism and yours has me ready to high five, sing the fight song and scope cheerleaders but have to break in with a reality update -- recruiters who can't coach, and what evidence is there that Martin can do that at the collegiate level, end up at the bus stop looking to get back in the game as recruiting specialists.

KSU went with Martin solely, sorry Greg, to prevent a jail break (Michael Beasley, Jacob Pullen, amongst others) that would send the Wildcats plummeting to the depths of the conference. Hey, hope the Cats can indeed build on their resurgence as it's good for the Big 12's reputation. Still believe that the Buffs hiring of Bzdelik will prove more astute as he has the pelts to prove he can coach.

Final Salvo

Peace and love sent the way of the family of Indiana Hoosiers football coach Terry Hoeppner.

Over the last 18 months, the man battled two brain surgeries and all the pain and anxiety that must go with them before passing away Tuesday at the age of 59, which seems old until you actually grow up and realize just how young it is.

The last couple of years I've seen family and friends fall to cancer and it gets me how our amazing human bodies can be so destroyed internally, how we betray it or it betrays us. For Hoeppner's family, may you be surrounded by great people.

Tight ends, draft thoughts, Bryant notorious

2007-06-19T04:30:00.000-07:00

A healthy Tony Scheffler at tight end for Denver, to go along with former Buff and Broncos newbie Dan Graham should greatly accelerate quarterback Jay Cutler's development. With the two gifted tight ends to work the middle (lessening the downfield risks for a second-year QB), Travis Henry expected to be a solid if unspectacular running back (think Mike Anderson), and Javon Walker on the outside, the Broncos should regain the ability to score 20 points a game.

If Brandon Marshall rebounds from his offseason stupidity and emerges at the other wideout position, the "O" could take it one notch higher, scoring 24-plus a contest and take the anchor off the neck of the defense, allowing the team a potential 2-3 game improvement in wins and yes, earn a playoff victory.

Rockies Rap

Peter King of CNNSI.com has recognized Kaz Matsui's play, comparing him to Ichiro. Now maybe Matsui isn't Ichiro even on the Rockies second baseman's best day but his strong play isn't a recent development. King's national responsibility, in football, is to blame for being slow to notice as the Japanese import and Mets domestic trade has been wonderful since coming to town. He may be limited to pop-gun power and not in the class as Ichiro or Hideki Matsui but the evidence is clear -- he can rake and bake, a definite burr under the saddle of opposing pitchers, a real gnat.

The good news, you ask? The Rockies have now signed first-round draft pick Casey Weathers, a hard-throwing reliever out of Vanderbilt. The bad news even for a team in need of a shut-down arm out of the bullpen? He was the wrong guy to pick no. 1. Should have been California prep hitting-machine Matt Dominguez, Midwestern prep-super arm Jarrod Parker or big bat-Southern outfielder Jason Heyward.

Nuggets draft thoughts

Would the Nuggets possibly trade a big man, say Marcus Camby or Nene, during the NBA draft? It's a reach to say that would all come tumbling down but it isn't out of the question if this aggressive front office is working the phones as you might imagine it is these days.

While Camby's defense is appreciated a Mile High by club executives he is aging, injury prone and attractive on the market. Nene, once he got healthy and in shape, played the best basketball of his career and is also good looking to opposing clubs.

The two Nuggets are better than most of the giraffes in this draft class so to move one of the Brittle Brothers, Denver would need to demand in return a high-quality 2-guard or a solid scorer off the bench at the 3-spot and a difference-making defender.

USC guard Nick Young, Vanderbilt swingman Derrick Byars and Georgia Tech small forward Thaddeus Young would all look good on this team as athletic scorers with size while Young's teammate, point guard Javaris Crittenton would add size and playmaking ability to the backcourt.

Rice scorer Morris Almond could be a surprise target for the organization as well.

A veteran presence would likely be preferable to coach George Karl but ignoring the draft is something the new leadership of this franchise seems unlikely to do.

Big Man on Campus

Arron Afflalo of UCLA was a first-team All-American primarily because he played at UCLA. Yes, the cat could score a little and defend a little more but he couldn't rebound nor pass and was hardly a typical star. Yet some see him as a first-round pick in the NBA draft. Less acclaimed Jason Smith of CSU is a better prospect this season and Richard Roby of CU could be the same next season if he is willing to listen to new coach Jeff Bzdelik as well as work on his attitude and raise the standards for himself. Roby has top-20 draft potential, maybe top-15 if he is willing to mentally claim it for himself. That starts with building up that rock-star party body, working on his shooting and developing an all-the-time motor.

Bryant a homewrecker

Kobe Bryant in Denver would dwarf the excitement that the Allen Iverson move generated. While that will never happen it is important to talk about the Lakers wunderkind and stick Bryant again for who he is off the court. A basketball talent of great magnitude, he continues show how clueless he is -- a public relations nightmare -- tarnishing how people view him and will remember him upon the conclusion of his career.

While he has long inferred he wants to make his own mark he has, honestly, really been chasing the ghost of Michael Jordan's accomplishments. While MJ had his issues he was also a team player driven by winning, with the rings and trophies and recognition to prove it. Bryant sells he is about winning but in reality, despite his share of hardware, he is about the beauty of himself. From the running off of Shaquille O'Neal and now his desire to be traded he has proven it. His game in the past has proven it on many occassions from the volume of shots, the poor shot selection, the refusal to take shots, all of it.

Now, with his latest tantrum, KB has to leave his family, the Lakers, feeling betrayed. They allowed Bryant to wreck a good thing. Kobe was kept because he was younger. L.A., however, would have been better served by kicking his tempestuous backside out of the house for a monster package and keeping O'Neal.

The Lakers will not get equal value in return for Bryant now but his subtraction will allow for the next attempt at revival of that franchise.

Bryant could lift the Bulls if dealt to Chicago but heading to New York would only allow him to be the best player on a good but hopeless-championship dreams team. If Phoenix or Dallas were to go all out to get him, which would be a foolish move on their part unless they can get away with grand theft, those would be wise juvenile home picks for Bryant and those franchises to consider.

Sweeping the Nation

Bears defensive lineman Tommie Harris wants Donovan McNabb, not Rex Grossman, as the team's starting quarterback. Harris is going to be in some locker room trouble for desiring someone else's man. Of course, you can see his point. McNabb is a better provider for the offense and Grossman is just a good guy who doesn't live up to his team's expectations. A divorce is coming, it's only a matter of time.

Read of talk of Daunte Culpepper backing up Brett Favre for a season then becoming the cheese. This, football wise, seems like low-risk, high reward for the Packers. If Culpepper's head could be on straight for such an idea, this could be a great hook-up. Culpepper doesn't lack talent nor competitiveness, only health and resiliency.

Barry Bonds now says it's o.k.. for the Giants to trade him, which is odd as can be if you think about how much he has loved being a Giant and how you would assume he would like to become the all-time homer king as a Giant. What this says is Bonds is tired of the mess he's brought upon himself and he foolishly believes running from his troubles will make things better. He also is tired of playing for an also-ran. San Francisco used to be a National League West power. No more. Bonds would like to win again.

Hearing of a trade scenario in which Boston would get Kevin Garnett, a undeniable talent but overrated. Basketball is a team game but Garnett's gifts do not lift up others. Him alone as a Celtic is not going to bring Boston playoff success again. Giving up a chunk of your core to get him has to be thought out seriously.

So, Tiger Woods, how does it feel to be merely mortal? Contrary to many in love with competition, as I usually am myself, I find it way more interesting when Woods owns the field.

Final Salvo

If you like this space, spread the word. If you think it is a wasteland, well, spread the word, quietly.

UPDATED: Warrior Sports Sunday Truth

2007-06-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

The Nuggets front office was definitely paying attention to the NBA Finals, especially how, for all the talk about Tim Duncan and LeBron James, how the Spurs backcourt of Tony Parker Longoria and Manu Ginobli dissected the Cavaliers defense to the bone.

Denver feels a healthy Allen Iverson will give them that Spurs-type advantage, the same strength that Miami had with Dwyane Wade, the same weapon Detroit had with Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton, to win in the playoffs.

With J.R. Smith likely having to be written off as a player at this point, his on-court and off-court immaturity maddening to coach George Karl and management, this prediction is ROCK SOLID -- the Nuggets will aggressively pursue help at off guard this offseason, seeking a starter, either by making a trade to re-enter this month's draft or by acquiring a veteran, to give them the power on the perimeter, with Iverson, to balance the team's inside strength.

Where have you gone, David Thompson?

Tales of two programs

Recently, Kansas State has either been on par with CU basketball or worse. Now, the Wildcats, after the brief but successful Bob Huggins' tenure, are a rising program (which won't last) due to a major B-12 shot of talent.

Prep phenom Michael Beasley, last year's star recruit -- Bill Walker, and highly-regarded Jacob Pullen, show how quickly a program in this sport can be revived. That said, the window of opportunity for KSU is going to slam shut in a season, maybe two when Beasley and Walker likely bolt for the NBA and new coach, Frank Martin, gets replaced.

Ironically, without comparable talent, the Buffs, with a better coach in Jeff Bzdelik, are better set up for long-term success.

Rockies Rap

Was talking with Brandi Griffin of Purple Row about Colorado baseball this week so the WSN could share with you a perspective from someone so immersed in that organization's team that she should be on its' payroll.

If I were George Steinbrenner of the Rockies I might just dismiss general manager Dan O'Dowd (I'd buy him ice cream first) and make Brandi my Brian Cashman or Theo Epstein.

So, what is wrong with Garrett Atkins? He's warming up a little now but he's been plain bad in 2007.

Garrett's 2006 was out of line with what we would have expected given his minor league career but his 2007 has even been more of a fluke. As the last few games have showed, he's still got the ability to cause some real damage on offense. Last season's production for Atkins came mostly in the second half -- I'd expect a similar surge this season.

Is the Rockies philosophy 'just remain patient' or can we expect them to sell out and pursue opportunities on the trade market, if not this season, then come winter?

I don't think they will make any major moves to upgrade before the trade deadline. Rodrigo Lopez and Kaz Matsui both have contracts that end after this year so if we slip out of contention by the end of July, I could see the team trying to unload them for players that would help in 2008. I don't think we'll drop far enough back for this to happen, though.

This winter, there's going to be some movement. Besides trying to re-sing Matsui and/or Lopez, the team has to figure on big raises for Matt Holliday, Brian Fuentes and possibly Atkins. I'm certain the Rockies are not going to be able to keep all of them, particularly if we keep Todd Helton and his salary around as well.

Right now, I think Fuentes will be traded and the team will try to keep Atkins and Holliday with multi-year deals. I think we'll get a nice return of players for Fuentes as elite relievers tend to be overvalued by general managers.

Will Helton be a Rockies player at the end of this season?

I will say "yes," with about 90 percent certainty. After October, the odds of him leaving will go up considerably, but I still think the most likely scenario will have him in a Colorado uniform in 2008. His contract prevents it from trading him two ways -- first, by the sheer size and second, by the veto decision on trades it gives him. With the number of teams a possible deal could be made with so limited, it really ties the team's hands. My guess right now is that Helton will be a Rockie until the end of the deal in 2011.

Your personal impact players in the Colorado farm system?

Ian Stewart will be a big-time player when he finally arrives. Like Holliday, his talent is solid even if the stats don't show it yet.

After that, Greg Reynolds and Brandon Hynick seem like safe bets to be consistently solid starters. Reynolds has been underrated since drafted and could be a Brandon Webb/Carpenter -type top-of-the-rotation starter. Hynick's got middle-of-the-rotation stuff but a (Greg) Maddux-like mind for pitching so he's a good bet to outperform scout's expectations.

Casey Weathers (the team's first-round pick this week) will be our version of (Detroit flamethrower) Joel Zumaya.

Besides those guys, there are a lot of more questionable calls, but I really like (Sam) Deduno, (Franklin) Morales, (Matt) Macri, (Eric) Young Jr. and (Dexter) Fowler, (Dan) Mayora and (Hector) Gomez as the top talents in the full-season leagues.

The National Sweep

Tiger Woods is within two strokes of the lead heading into today at the U.S. Open. If we were on top looking down on the competition, he'd likely be a lock to win. Looking up, he is still dangerous, just not as much so. His competitive drive might be the best but can he make the necessary adjustments to let his talent win out?

When the major players in the arrogant world of law turn from morality in their attempt to administer justice, we all have a major problem, whether we are involved in a case or not. What happened in the Duke rape trial involving the school's lacrosse players and the stripper was disgraceful.

The DA, Mike Nifong, now resigning, abused his power as many in that field do. There simply is not enough punishment for those found guilty of such actions. Being disbarred is not a sufficient societal remedy. Being fined or going to jail for a limited amount of time would not be justice. The law, whether it be police or courts, protect their own but its' high time that stops. In the case of the Nifong, he should receive a prison sentence commensurate with violating the public trust and stripping citizens of fair and just treatment. We're talking 20 years. Strip police or in this case, court officials of their arrogance and air of invincibility and we get better government.

Prayers and peace sent out to Bloomington to Indiana University football coach Terry Hoeppner, still struggling physically after two brain surgeries in 18 months. Bill Lynch, an assistant, will now take over as the Hoosiers top leader as Hoeppner is not well enough to build that program. Maybe, IU will become a national story this season. These kinds of things do tend to evolve into inspirational benchmarks for humanity.

UPDATED

Carmelo Anthony trying to relax this offseason but getting exposed, so to speak, by Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star.

"The league and the players association also should work with the NCAA on doing something to eliminate AAU basketball. Our players are too raw and too difficult to coach because AAU basketball — and its undisciplined style of play — has become more important and influential than high school basketball.
I hate to keep using LeBron James as the example because I absolutely love his mental maturity and willingness to be coached, but he is an AAU player. AAU is the reason he doesn’t have a jump shot. AAU is the reason he’s so unskilled in the low post.
AAU is the reason Carmelo Anthony is one of the worst teammates you could have. Yes, he got lucky and won a national championship in college. Trust me, it was luck. His game isn’t about winning. It’s about putting up numbers. He can’t see the floor and what his teammates are doing because that’s not necessary in AAU ball."

NCAA, Rams and Buffs talk, trade rumors

2007-06-15T05:13:00.000-07:00

The heavy handedness of the self-righteous NCAA looks comical, doesn't it, when they punish all sorts of fringe "violations" that supposedly give schools an unfair advantage in recruiting and competing and then when something serious comes along, say Notre Dame acting as singular corporate entity, it does nothing. The latest -- the SEC exploring its' own TV network. Now, tell me, truly, that's not an unfair @*&%! advantage?

The more recruiting stories I read the more I realize that coaches, grown men, are not just trying to share the merits of their respective schools, not just trying to build relationships with athletes, they are in many cases playing them, as in trying to be one of their running mates, relating to them as their classmates do. Color it distasteful and ugly. While most athletes see right through it, many fall for that dope. In extreme cases, and it happens more often than you might imagine, the coaches' actions surpass salesmanship and cross into the murky water called athletic pedophilia.

Think it's time for CSU to infuse some new blood in the football coaching ranks, under top dog Sonny Lubick. Bring in some irrepressible personalities with bold ideas and pit-bull desires to recruit. Things are growing stale in Fort Collins. Great programs are constantly identifying, nurturing and spitting out hot assistants.

The Rams have to have a healthy Kyle Bell in the backfield in 2007, we know that much but just as important is the offense starting to maximize the large talent of one Kory Sperry, who has the ability to become a high draft pick as a pass catcher. He's not as highly touted but he could be every bit as good as recent NFL draftees Greg Olsen (Bears) and Zach Miller (Oakland).

CU's Dan Hawkins deciding against training for a marathon -- good public relations. Hawkins gets love in this space but if he would have pursued that diversion it would have looked real bad. You don't win two football games then not do all you can to at least give the appearance of doing everything short of selling your soul at the crossroads to improve.

Hearing talk of Hawkins making it sound like Nick Nelson actually has a shot at being the team's starting quarterback this fall. Yeah, I suppose he does in theory and honestly, that materializing might be in the best interest of Cody Hawkins and the team but the word here hasn't changed -- Nelson is a game manager and if he isn't showing enough ability to make plays in practice (and he didn't in the spring) then Hawkins will likely start, if not the opener, then within the first three games. Otherwise, the Buffs will average under 14 points a game and we all saw how well that worked out last season -- little "o," overtaxed "D."

Hey, those of you fanatics committed to CSU and CU, it could be worse -- you could be Duke, losers of 20- straight games.

Former Buff back Chris Brown is expected to choose a new team to run for by the end of the week, according to NFL.com. The favorite, according to the website, are the Bears. If that is the move that CB rolls with, then he will get a chance to play for a potential powerhouse in 2007. His running is also Chicago-style all the way -- no flash, just hard-nosed. They'd love him, if he can keep his body working and on the field.

Word is Broncos left tackle Matt Lepsis, another former Buff, is looking good running around in shorts. If his repaired knee is indeed strong and Lepsis hasn't lost lateral mobility then the Denver offense just got a whole lot better, so much so that quarterback Jay Cutler was just found crying tears of joy. Backfield mate Travis Henry is happy too, flashing a big smile.

Champ Bailey didn't win the NFL Defensive Player of the Year but all off-season he has been lauded by media scrubs as the best defensive back in the game. Losing Clinton Portis, the most electric back (sorry, Terrell Davis) in team history stung but the Bailey trade, despite the up-and-down (short) career of Tatum Bell, a second-round pick in the deal, was a stroke of genius. Bailey's impact on the game is undeniable. Imagine how good he could be if the Broncos thought of actually rushing the passer with bad intent.

Now that Matt Holliday ripped up East coast pitching, look for him to get some national love any day now. Looks like all Garrett Atkins sickly hitting needed was a challenge, as in previously unbeaten Josh Beckett -- a double and a grand slam later, Atkins looks legitimate again. Kaz Matsui, well you know the WSN loves Kaz Matsui. Jeff Francis, since a rocky April, has simply been one of the better left-handers in the game. Rockies management is loving this, wanting to tell the media and fans, "we told you so" while they were preaching patience earlier this season when the team, well, was atrocious.

A look around the country shows that some Chicago fans would like either Marcus Camby or Nene in a Bulls uniform. Guessing those same people don't have any money nor a credit card. Promise the names Luol Deng, Kirk Hinrich or Ben Gordon wouldn't be mentioned.

Other stupid talk has them locos in Atlanta talking Shelden Williams (a solid prospect) for Camby. You know, it's nice that the Nuggets players are being desired but disappointing there are so few conversations that make any sense back on this end. Where are the deals that make you want a phone date to discuss intimate details?

Sweeping the Nation

LeBron James = John Elway. The Cavaliers = Broncos. San Antonio's dismantling of Cleveland made James and the Cavs look like the impostors Elway and Denver once were before breaking through with two championships. The Spurs, like the Pistons when they won a title, show what defense and teamwork still can accomplish. Not always pretty, except on the scoreboard. That said, James will have brighter moments, maybe even in a Cleveland uniform.

Alex Rodriguez might seem soft to some, full of his fame too but the accomplishments, the numbers speak SCOREBOARD to all those firing shots his way. The man has lived up to the hype that he had when drafted, is one of the best of all time already and potentially the future home-run king. If he leaves the Yankees, which would be an atypical dumb move on their behalf, Scott Boras or no Scott Boras as his agent, if I were a team with the financial resources, I'd bag A-Rod to play for my franchise in a New York minute. Forget the nonsense that winning doesn't matter to him. If it didn't, he wouldn't prepare as he does, produce as he does. Yes, he's Hollywood all the way but so what -- at least he isn't hurt, drugging, loafing and underachieving. He's no Barry Bonds or Sammy Sosa nor Elijah Dukes.

Maybe it's just me but someone looks bothered by not being the center of attention. What do you think?

I'm a sap. If you read this space, you know it. Love stories like Josh Hamilton of the Reds who beat the odds, even if self imposed, to be successful. Another story that bears watching on the couch with Kleenex that I want to see have a happy ending is the one involving former Cardinals phenom Rick Ankiel, who is now crushing baseballs at Triple-A Memphis instead of throwing them by hitters, behind them, to the backstop or past the heads of vendors in the stands. Here's hoping the lost hurler turned center fielder can make it back to the majors. His resolve is admirable and worth honoring.

Too close, trade talk, bench Smith, Lions

2007-06-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

Curt Schilling definitely threw strikes to Colorado hitters Wednesday, a 12-2 Purple win, but most of them caught too much of the plate and were then sprayed all over Fenway Park.

Josh Fogg, on the other hand, was all over the place throwing the ball, which seemingly made him difficult to hit.

Interesting development.

Brad Hawpe continues his revival, Todd Helton flashes, Matt Holliday keeps building for a mega-contract and the Rockies, with the play of the last month are intriguing again.

Forget Helton's trade value -- it's marginal. The man who could draw serious interest later this season is Hawpe, a big, strong-armed outfielder with moderate, streaky power.

The Rockies know they have to re-sign Holliday. It would be near impossible to get equal value in dealing him. His financial demands will be ridiculous but the club has to find that minimum number of dollars he will accept then give it to him. This run-deficient organization can't let a big bat like that get away. His work ethic is also something that should be rewarded and kept in the Colorado club house.

J.R. Smith of the Nuggets should not use basketball as a way of healing his heart for the crash that killed a friend. He should, instead, check into a treatment center of some kind to look at the Wild World of J.R, both on and off the court, and overhaul his life game plan. Do that and he not only saves his career but his life.

Hate to be a buzzkill but now that massive defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy is in Denver is he all of a sudden going to be a player? Remember all those former Cleveland Browns? They hardly dominated here. And remember this -- how many Penn State defenders (and I greatly respect Joe Paterno), actually have done squat in the League as of late, especially down lineman like Courtney Brown (injuries), Michael Haynes or Kennedy?

Justin Verlander of the Tigers threw a no-hitter this week. Which Rockies pitcher could conceivably throw one down the road? No, "none of them" isn't one of the answers on this test. Aaron Cook, Jeff Francis or Jason Hirsh are the options on this multiple choice exam. Truly, if all the stars aligned, all three could one day pull off the feat although Cook rarely goes deep into games. Francis is the best man on the staff but his stuff is too soft to be considered. Hirsh is young but shows dominant flashes and is the pick.

Smith crash, Bzdelik plan, Scarface, Carr

2007-06-10T03:29:00.000-07:00

Nuggets guard J.R. Smith loves basketball. He's young. He's still growing as a person. Immaturity and him hang out together. His auto accident Saturday that left him and a passenger with serious injuries, hopefully, will wake him up. Yes, it was an accident that can happen to anyone of any age but now is the time for Smith to say "timeout" and come up with another game plan for his life. How about letting someone else call the plays for a little while, J.R.?

Said it before, will say it again and again -- once the CU basketball program starts winning again and on a consistently higher level than it has, and all this will happen, people will forget all about all this short-sighted, fact-deficient garbage that Jeff Bzdelik-is-a-troll that is now circulating the area. While I'm sure he is not happy with all the scrutiny, he is likely laughing about it all too, considering the ridiculousness of his lack of empathy for the former players. In the end, this won't affect recruiting in the least, despite media attempts to the contrary.

Ex-Oriole Rodrigo Lopez pitches Colorado past Baltimore and Kaz Matsui drives in two runs late to get all the media glory. The Rockies again won't win anything this season but the talented bunch of misfits are winning some games and at least earning some attention by being a tease. You actually feel now that this team is only a couple pieces away from being a division contender.

Former Broncos defensive back Kelly Herndon, recently dumped by Seattle, has a new home, joining Jeff Fisher's Tennessee Titans, a quality organization.

Kenyon Martin, for his volcanic temper, ain't all bad. He does have a heart for others, as WSN friend Marc Spears reports in his column. Martin has an inner fire for many reasons, most unknown. The word here is if Martin is ever healthy enough to be someone on the court again, he will be someone of impact.

Rams Look

A newspaper reporter recently shared some insight on CSU basketball recruit Jesse Carr in this space and late this week, Cody Goochey, the sports director at KBRB radio in Ainsworth, checked in, considering he called all of Carr's games this past season, to offer up an in-depth analysis on Carr's game.

What about made him special against the level of competition in which he played?

"The kid can see the whole floor. I don't know how many assists he had from almost full court -- he had a ton. He's also an unbelievable ball handler."

What's his quickness like off the dribble and defensively?

"He's great off the dribble. He'd rather go his left often and he's so quick. While he is right-handed, he dribbles predominately with his left hand."

Is he honestly a D-1 player?

"Yes, by far. No question about it. I won't say he will be starting as a freshman but he should be playing as a freshman."

Why didn't the Huskers recruit him?

"They are. So is Nevada. He just wants to know right now, to take the pressure off (where he'll play)."

Sweeping the Nation

The media can whine all they want about Roger Clemens but the Yankees and baseball fans will let him have his special treatment because he is special (349 wins). He works, he produces, he's one of the elite of the elite of all time. Shadddddddup!

Flipping through the channels Saturday and for some crazy reason I hit the brakes for golf. Golf! Must have had a lack of oxygen in my brain on that one but regardless, I see John Daley's face looking like he was doing face-first slides into home plate or like he had the worst case of razor burn I've ever seen. Then I hear his statement read by the announcers that his wife, aka Fruity Pebbles, lit him up, without the dirty details being mentioned. Now, Daley is one of the few guys out there who attracts more trouble than me. What did he do to pour gasoline on a woman's anger to deserve that! And will his psychotic wife be prosecuted harshly for this, and then get a huge divorce settlement (you watch!) or will they kiss and make up with no legal consequences. Daley is just a magnet for controversy. Yeah, he brings it upon himself most times, but the man deserves some empathy. He is deeply troubled by life-long demons.

So, a question for heavy-handed, ego-maniacal NBA commissioner David Stern, a dictator in disguise -- considering you slam anyone who opens their mouth, questioning anything about the league, what are you going to do about poor behavior, such as ex-Nugget and current Bucks player Ruben Patterson, still being dogged by his sex-offender ways? And regardless of what Patterson's camp says, sex offenders don't forget they have to register as predators when they move into new hoods. That is made loud and clear to them as part of their life from the day they are allowed to continue mingling in society. Expect the phony commish to do nothing.

WSN Colorado Quarterback Hierarchy

1. Jay Cutler, Broncos
-- his talent and the production in year 1 show he has big game, big potential
2. Caleb Hanie, CSU
-- mistakes are holding him back, having no running game didn't help
3. Shaun Carney, AFA
-- no star but no stiff; how much can he improve is the question
4. CU's grab bag of Cody Hawkins, Nick Nelson
-- Bernard Jackson should have been on this list but he's no QB anymore, Hawkins will soon be rising while Nelson must win the starting position to remain relevant

Big is in, complaints not valid, Smooth

2007-06-09T01:27:00.000-07:00

Who knows what the Denver defense is going to be like this fall but give the Broncos credit for aggressively pursuing a new approach, starting with defensive coordinator Jim Bates' hire, the trade for cornerback Dre' Bly and the recent elephant hunting that has netted them jumbo defensive tackles Sam Adams and Jimmy Kennedy to go along with draftee Marcus Thomas. This may not become a dominant unit but it will be a different look and one with intriguing potential. I like it. Now if the team can only get that offense up to speed.

Yes, CU basketball coach Jeff Bzdelik is one cold fish when it comes to stroking the emotions of others but we all know life isn't fair, that Bzdelik is paid to run a clean program and at the same time win, win, win and that recently displaced players still do have a promising future, if they so choose. That the father of James Inge is upset is understandable, as he loves his son, but to not respect Bzdelik's honesty, to expect that his son have a stronghold on a scholarship when he won't be allowed to play is shortsighted. Instead, the Inge family should be out hitting the pavement, marketing, seeking a solution, even if short-term so their son can continue his education and playing career. Bzdelik's approach makes him easy to dislike in some people's eyes but he isn't the bad guy. Fan's expectations of winning are to blame.

Seeing a headline that reads "Ex-Bronco" when referring to linebacker Al Wilson still ain't right because Wilson was such a dominant presence in that organization and to think it ended like it did for him doesn't really work for the heart. Some food for thought -- if D.J. Williams doesn't excel in the middle, which I think he eventually will and Wilson gets healthy, a long shot, Little Al could get another shot in Denver in 2008. The word here is the former Tennessee Volunteer won't play in 2007.

Chauncey Billups must feel valued at CU these days. AD Mike Bohn talked to him last season about the program, Billups has committed himself to supporting it and now a basketball camp to be held in Boulder. Maybe it is difficult to see with the naked eye but good things are coming to Buffs basketball with the hiring of Bzdelik and his make-no-excuses, hard-line ways and Billups' name recognition and tangible contributions.

Rockies Rap

Jeff Francis made one mistake Friday against Baltimore and it cost him. Nick Markakis is not the guy to jack around with, yet Francis tried and got punched. Lesson learned.

O.K., Todd Helton can start hitting any day now. We're ready. Ditto for Garrett Atkins. If Matt Holliday wants to go on a torrid power surge, we're ready for that too. You all don't have to be shy. Get up and do your thing.

The Rockies have one of the better farm systems around so you can't entirely knock the way they do business but they do make mistakes. Last year was one example talked about here before. Pitcher Greg Reynolds, Colorado's top pick, looks good early but pitchers Andrew Miller and Clayton Kershaw (the WSN picks last year) are better talents and looking big time and hitter Evan Longoria looks like a future star. Tim Lincecum and Brandon Morrow are in the major leagues and Kyle Drabek is a hot prospect.

This season, picking a reliever in Casey Weathers instead of hitters Jason Heyward or Matt Dominguez or pitcher Jarrod Parker was shortsighted. Yes, the Rockies need help in the bullpen but unless Weathers becomes "all that" this was a mistake. Book it.

The National Sweep

This space is devoted to the Broncos but KC would be smart to at least investigate the possibility of acquiring quarterback Daunte Culpepper. Brodie Croyle, currently pegged to be the Chiefs' starter was considered John Elway-esque in high school but injuries and well, the fact that he isn't Elway, never let him live up to the hype. Croyle has an interesting story and seems to be one to respect but Culpepper can play if he's healthy and KC would be foolish not to try to pick him up. Seeing him in Denver once a season would be good for business too.

I see people, and when I say people I mean the media, are back questioning LeBron James. Niiiice. The man is in a bad relationship. No matter all the good he does he will never be able to please those who disseminate the sports news. Lift a joke of a franchise to the NBA Finals, then laugh at him as his team loses Game 1. Remember the Super Bowl losses of that Denver quarterback. Interesting parallel. Let's clear things up for the media -- James has always been great, is great and will be great and the Cavs work towards surrounding him with quality talent he will bring that city a championship. Oh, and one more thing -- Tim Duncan is no stiff, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobli are quality, Bruce Bowen is like jock itch that won't go away, Greg Popovich can coach a little and the Spurs, well, they're kind of like always championship-kind-of-wonderful. Did the sports' experts forget all that?

Nebraska just took a bit hit, losing big-play receiver Maurice Purify. The cat just, like me, knows how to attract men in uniform. If he's not playing bar room stunt man and breaking up the place and people, Purify is arrested on suspicion of drinking and driving. What will be interesting is this -- will the Huskers dip into the past and use the Tom Osborne model of guidance and allow Purify back on the team, excusing all this as boys being boys or will Nebraska do the right thing, acknowledge Purify is an idiot and throw him overboard, allowing him to fend for himself after breaching the respect for his scholarship?

Final Salvos

The Reds will look hard to trade Ken Griffey Jr. this season. The future Hall of Famer is healthy (for now) and crushing baseballs again. Such a move makes sense, allowing Cincinnati to build up a mediocre team and giving Griffey another shot at playing on a winner.

Don't miss the Sunday Truth column. Will begin a new series -- the WSN Lists, with first up a rating of the state's quarterbacks, college and pro.

Rappin' injustice claim; weakness; panties

2007-06-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

O.K., enough already, alright? Contrary to the opinion that a scholarship offer is a commitment for the duration of an athlete's career, it isn't. While the WSN disapproves of dumping a player out of a program say, outside of a week following the season, a coach has the right and yes, obligation to the athletic department to field the best product and if a coach believes a player is not living up to his potential, whether it be as an athlete, student or human being, he needs to encourage or dismiss that person from his program.

Players transfer, coaches split, the world ain't perfect, is it?

This "running off" of players, as many sell it, is just part of the business. Last I checked, athletes get cut from junior high and high school programs, when their emotional maturity can't really handle that wound too well, yet they live on.

Some cat named Michael Jordan got axed from the team in high school and look what happened to him.

Winning matters and CU coach Jeff Bzdelik should not be vilified for doing exactly what he has been hired to do and will be expected to do come next season and the season after that. Does the end justify the means?

Sometimes, yes.

Do we think Bzdelik wanted to redirect four players elsewhere? I'm thinking he would have loved to walk into town, love his talent base and win 25 games in year 1. It would be easier than what his reality is in Boulder, which is not enough talent.

The same people furious at him over this coldness will be the same ones furious over losing games.

The man could care less about the hits he's taking now because he knows someone has to be the bad guy and that ultimately, his decisions will help his plan succeed.

The exiled players? They will still get educations, still have opportunities to compete.

You know it, I know it, that dirty little secret -- life isn't fair. It's a meat-grinder we all have to fight to rise above. I think the Fired Four will be stronger than most in the end by overcoming their current pain. Their scars will give them an advantage when it comes to future adversity.

What's more cruel, anyway? Using a kid as practice meat and never being honest about his prospects to contribute beyond that or telling the truth and giving them direction to achieve their dreams and goals?

Bzdelik was put into this position by someone no longer employed as head basketball coach.

That's where the blame lies if people want to place it.

Checkin' the backyard

Kaz Matsui doesn't have productive numbers to show you when it comes to power or RBI but anyone who doubts his irreplaceable value to the Rockies offense has had one two many Coors Lights. His confidence, shattered in New York, is back. He will never be what the Mets thought he would be when he came to the states (an elite talent) but until Colorado can find a hammer of a bat at 2B, Matsui is the best the team has had since Eric Young.

Know who Brad Hawpe reminds the WSN of these days? A poor man's Paul O'Neill. He might also round more into that type of player as he gets older. Of course, if a contending team came calling for Hawpe later this summer, and this is considering Hawpe can continue his recent excellent play, then the word here is to trade him -- extract a premium prospect and a major leaguer for his rights.

Oh, brother, here we go again. The Rockies, who have impressed picking and developing Jeff Francis and Troy Tulowitzki into major leaguers and getting Greg Reynolds on his way, are going to pass up high-ceiling talent again over money. Yes, you have to get players signed but you can't always turn your back on talent if you one day hope to win a division, pennant or World Series. Word is the team is going to draft a college reliever in the first round today. Yes, the team needs a dominant closer and maybe Vanderbilt's Casey Weathers is one (think Billy Wagner) but at the expense of a great hitter, which the team obviously needs? Meet the new Rockies, same as the old Rockies. Check Wednesday's post for who Colorado should be looking at today.

So I keep hearing that Von Wafer, he of the D-League and a former Lakers washout, is the Nuggets answer to their perimeter shooting woes. Like I said, that's what I hear. Sounds like a spin job to me. Not saying Wafer can't come from such a place to succeed but am saying Denver would be wise to do as instructed in this space before and trade a future pick, even if it is a second rounder or a reserve player and a pick to grab one of many potentially solid shooters from this year's draft.

Catcher Chris Iannetta needs more seasoning in the minors and Yorvit Torrealba needs more playing time. Iannetta has shockingly failed with the bat to this point but he should still be thought of as a quality prospect. He excelled at Triple-A last season but was lost in the majors, something that has continued in 2007.

The National Sweep

Just read a report that says Texas forward Kevin Durant is weak, as in his body is pitiful. That's news? Dude is a straw. Regardless, I thought the NBA draft is about talent and from what my eyes saw all season, Durant has that coming out of all his pores. So a story that says Durant can't bench 185 pounds, can't jump, can't whatever means as much to me as Lindsay Lohan/Brittany Spears/Paris Hilton news -- nada.

The real reason Florida superstar coach Billy Donovan dumped the Orlando Magic? He was afraid of failure. Oh, the explanations will be to the contrary but that's the real dirt. That said, Donovan is a fantastic mind, recruiter and teacher and I'd take him coaching my team any day. The college game is where he belongs and will long excel. The Gators will make him feel bad, for a day or two, but will welcome their true love back with open arms.

Nice to see the game of golf has its' panties all wadded up over Michelle Wie's withdrawal from a tournament (which one, who cares) with two holes to play. Yes, maybe a shortsighted move on her part but if I'm women's golf, men's golf, any golf, I think I would shut my mouth when a player who draws any interest and fans even wants to show up to participate in my blue-blood activity. Quick, how many LPGA talents can you name off the top of your head. I just read an article, which reminded me of the great Annika Sorenstam. If I can't remember her, then what's that say about the tour?

Everyone now, give it up for legendary sportswriter Frank Deford, who just gets what the NBA doesn't -- more is not always better. Matter of fact, we're full. We want to leave the table. We could have stopped back in April. Quit making the game the equivalent of an overly long movie you want to leave before finding out how it all ends. Commissioner David Stern's ego and arrogance makes me look like Joe Wallflower.

Final Salvos

Looking for a name to remember? Here's one, a WSN sleeper -- Michael McKenry, a A-Asheville catcher in the Rockies organization who isn't hitting at a high clip (.263) but has strike zone judgment (25 walks, 36 strikeouts) and power (8 HR, 14 2B in 47 games). McKenry could rise fast to the majors if he can continue that level of production.

Starting tomorrow, a series of WSN Lists, beginning with the state's football teams.

Billups rooted; Sleeper; Draft

2007-06-06T05:24:00.000-07:00

Chauncey Billups reportedly is planning on staying in Detroit and is not lusting to move on to a new locale solely for money. Smart move. Billups game finished coming together in that city and it's where his greatest moments have played out. His production is also highly respected there. Billups is a Piston and should remain a Piston.

CSU forward Jason Smith called by Chad Ford of ESPN.com potentially one of the sleepers of the soon-to-come NBA draft. Smith won't hit the ground running in the Association but with good health and the right fit (no logjam at his position, running team) the Kersey and Fort Collins big man can play at that level for years.

Brad Hawpe wasn't getting it done at the plate. Of course, he's been trying to make up for it in May and June, capped by him just being named National League Player of the Week after crushing to the tune of .455 with three home runs and eight RBI. Hawpe is notoriously streaky. When he's hot, he is an all-around player, dangerous and an impact talent. When he goes cold, he should be a fourth outfielder, which happens way too often.

Steve Finley's game has expired and Rockies finally see it, designating the outfielder for assignment. That move gives Sean Barker a chance to hit the big leagues. Here's wishing him the best on his big break.

Rockies going own way

The Major League Baseball amateur draft is approaching and get ready for the unorthodox way the Rockies like to do business -- signability. Yes, that's important, getting a guy inked, uniformed and playing quickly but passing on potential star talent proves costly on the field.

Last year was but the latest example for this franchise. The top two choices here for Colorado would have been North Carolina fastball-slider ace Andrew Miller and Texas high school lefthander Clayton Kershaw. Miller has already had a taste of the big leagues and Kershaw is off to an outstanding start. Yes, Greg Reynolds, the Rockies pick, has looked fantastic this season at Tulsa (currently injured) but he is a no. 3 or no. 4 starter one day in Denver while Miller and Kershaw are potential all stars.

This year, the rumor mill is all over the map who the organization will take in round 1 but you can bet it will pass on highly-regarded potential. This year's picks for Colorado, it says here, should be from a list that includes, if available, high school hitters Mike Moustakas, Jason Heyward or Matt Dominguez, college pitcher Ross Detwiler or high school arm Jarrod Parker (see order of preference below).

Moustakas
Detwiler
Heyward
Dominguez
Parker

Speak Up, Go Warrior

A letter shipped this way by Paul, who agrees with a comment the Nugg Doctor made yesterday about Ron Artest in Denver.

"Truth, Nugg Doctor is right that Artest would ruin the team, but the trade itself would be amazing. This is because, believe it or not, Artest is a more tradeable player than (Kenyon) Martin. We could get a good draft pick out of this if we play our cards right."

WSN: Agreed. As written before, that would be the only reason to accept Artest in Denver. Martin has his, um, "issues" but I want to give him the benefit of the doubt that he has worked things out to some degree with coach George Karl.

Artest, meanwhile, wants to rap, be a locker room menace and score 25 points a game when his strength is defense. Just too much wild horse to handle.

But if you give me a healthy Artest for a broken-down Martin, I'd do the deal in a heartbeat and then quietly start accepting offers for Artest. If nothing materialized, I'd make Artest a back-room deal to market him in any way I could out of Denver, even back East to his roots, while highlighting his game if he promises to toe the company line with his actions and his mouth. The goal -- a top 15 draft pick or quality veteran or two in return in trade at current team weak points.

Bay gone; Carr scouted; Nuggets dirt

2007-06-05T01:20:00.000-07:00

CU sophomore-to-be Kal Bay is the latest to be ushered from the Buffs basketball program, according to published reports in the Denver media.

What?

No explanation given, big questions in abundance.

What happened?

There were flashes that the point guard from Arizona could play at this level, if not as a starter, then certainly as a reserve, providing some passing and perimeter scoring. In a new offense that is all about discipline and fundamentals this news is puzzling, maybe just because there is nothing of significance said by coach Jeff Bzdelik.

All hysterics aside, Bzdelik is a winner and should be given the benefit of the doubt in the moment on the way he's rebuilding this program. One thing to remember, he can care less about other's opinions -- yours, mine, the janitor or the lunch lady.

The man is here to do a job, which means winning as much as graduating players and running a clean operation. That is the criteria in which he will ultimately be judged.

Bzdelik knows there is no reward in being popular in May and June.

Bay will resurface and if he finds a school that needs his skills and desire, he will make an impact.

Colorado State basketball scored in Nebraska, securing a verbal from Jesse Carr. So how good is he and how good can he be? Looking for insight, I spoke to Ron Powell of the Lincoln (NE) Journal Star.

"It can be difficult projecting someone's D-1 college potential playing against small school competition in Nebraska, but I'll try. Carr is a unique player because he has the ball handling, passing skills and court vision to play point guard but also possesses the shooting range to play the off-guard.

"Obviously, he plays well at clutch time, as the state finals showed.

"At 6-2, height shouldn't be a problem, especially since he can high jump 6-6 or 6-7 on a good day and play taller than he is. He looked quick against C-1 high school competition but throw him against other D-1 college guards and I don't know. The jury is still out on that. He'll need to get stronger and improve his defense but he's got another year of high school to work on those things."

The WSN breakdown of Powell's scouting report? Carr is not lacking for athleticism. Who knows if his foot speed is going to allow him to beat people off the dribble or defend but he doesn't appear to be stuck in quicksand either.

He seems, from the report and not from having seen him play, to be exactly what teams are looking for these days in the backcourt -- a combo guard who can dish and score it. That is exactly the type of player that wins games in the postseason. His fundamentals, athleticism and balanced skill set sound like a good fit for the Rams.

Maybe, just maybe, Carr will prove to be a sleeper hit in Fort Collins.

Ron Artest to Denver, Marcus Camby leaving town -- how do these absurd rumors get started and why do they get credence from the media? Called in for a favor from the ever-tuned-in Nugg Doctor to get some answers.

"They only get credence because Nuggets news is thin right now. Everyone in the free world knows that Kwame Brown is not coming to Denver for Marcus Camby but the big papers have to print something.

"Honestly, I feel that sometimes the more ridiculous the trade rumor the more credence it gets because of the innately human trait to gravitate towards the sensational. Like driving by a bad accident on the highway, it is in all of us to curse every other motorist out there for having to glance and look, thus creating the traffic jam, but when it is our turn to pass by the wreckage we do what every other driver just did and take a quick peek.

"The big papers know this and that is why they report even the most ridiculous of scenarios about our favorite sports teams."

What would such moves, on Fantasy Island, do for the Nuggets?

"The move of trading Kenyon Martin straight up for Artest would be absolutely devastating. Sure, Kenyon is no Bill Russell when it comes to team concept but Artest would have this team in shambles by the All-Star break. There is no possible way that Carmelo, (Allen Iverson) and Artest could co-exist and quite frankly, given his track record with the Pacers and Kings, I don't think is ready to be part of a team environment. He commands the spotlight and in Denver that would be the worst-case scenario.

"As for the Kwame Brown rumor... just don't! Trading Camby for Brown would be like the Nuggets having the top three picks in the last ten drafts combined and selecting Nikoloz Tskitishvili, Raef LaFrentz, and Tony Battie one, two, three all over again. And I don't think I need to remind you where this team was at with that cast of characters in the mix! Does anyone remember the 1997-98 season?"

The Broncos get their man -- huge tackle Sam Adams. The only question is does he have anything left in the tank? If so, it's a winning move for coach Mike Shanahan's defense, teaming Adams with Gerard Warren, slowing down opposing running games. Now, if only that pass rush can be found, consistently.

Nuggets star guard Allen Iverson in training to get his team deep into the playoffs next season. Considering the cat weighs, what, 170 pounds dripping wet, it makes you wonder how much he could down before he was floating. Imagine, if you will, though, your night on the town being made public to your family, employer, friends, everyone. That's today's world if you're rich and famous. Sort of nice to be anonymous in it. I could get all drunk, high and stupid and no one would care. For the famous, not quite so uncomplicated, is it.

Former Bronco and now ex-Seahawk Kelly Herndon got the boot from Seattle for younger meat. Herndon played three seasons in Denver and recorded six interceptions and forced five fumbles. He was overpaid the last two years and thats the reason he got replaced but now, at a discount, he will have value again on the market. Would be a nice nickel back for someone.

Eisen, continued

Remember the Rich Eisen - hot female anchor story where this woman, Alycia Lane, reportedly sent delicious bikini pictures Eisen's way even though the sportscaster is, oh-no -- a married man, shots that his wife, uh-oh, just happened to find, setting off a media orgy?

Well, I later saw a writeup on that whole sordid affair in which the accused's friend, Trish Bergin, a journalist herself, in an attempt to defend Lane, ripped Eisen, saying the whole outcry was a joke and that the plain-looking Eisen is not in Lane's league (gotta agree there).

Thinking that noble intent by Bergin was lacking somewhat in class I politely (honestly) pointed that out to her. That elicited an informative and interesting response.

"Mike,

"Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.

"You know, Mike, this whole thing just got me so mad. The photos that Alycia sent to Rich were of a HUGE GROUP of people on the beach on vacation.

"A source of mine at the NY Post tells me it was Rich's wife who sent the information to the papers. For her to describe the photos as SAUCY and then NOT ATTACH the photos was ridiculous!

"Rich could have set the record straight when the papers asked him for comment. But it is my opinion that he decided instead to sit back and bask in the moment of feeling like he was the catch of the season. So for THAT I decided to remind him that he certainly isn't!

"Thanks for your comments though, Mike."

My Best,

Trish Bergin

So why doesn't that ever happen this direction, getting beach shots of my sexy female friends? Guess I'm just not in their league. Still trying to figure out which league, if any, I'm in.

Final Salvo

CSU is making changes, stepping out, going for it to increase funding to better their athletic programs. This is but a step, but it is a step, which it says here, will materialize under athletic director Paul Kowalczyk. He is passionate and expects that of all who work for him. He believes CSU is a potential gold mine and you can lay money (please) that he will strike riches within the next five years.

For more Nugg Doctor slant, check the Hot Links.

Buffs shooting, passing center; Sheff speaks

2007-06-04T01:09:00.000-07:00

Quick thoughts before we hit a story on CU's newest big man (picture, right) in its' basketball program, a piece sent this way, written exclusively for the Warrior Sports News by Chris Wells.

Just wondering, does Gary Sheffield get a pass for punk statements about Latin baseball players and about Major League Baseball? If a white player were to make such an obnoxious, unfounded, stupid assertion, he'd be, well exiled to Cuba. Or Nebraska.

Whatever Alex Rodriguez's stripper friend is serving up must be fine as A-Rod beat the Red Sox with a tiebreaking homer in the ninth inning off ace reliever Jonathan Papelbon. Mmmmmm, good, that must be! Rodriguez might be in a meat grinder at home but at work, he's still the man.

Billy Donovan looks bad, very bad, flirting with others in the basketball universe, ditching Florida for the NBA and then dumping the Orlando Magic to return, his tail between his legs (or it should be) to the Gators. Hey, a man is allowed to change his mind, get his bearings, but to be the waffler he's been for weeks has been selfish and embarrassing. Wonder if recruits will ever know if he's going to be around the next day, no matter what he will tell them now "I'm here forever." Sort of like A-Rod telling his wife, "honey, just going out for a while. Don't worry, I won't be talking to any chicks."

CU's new football uniforms -- nice, but did we need new threads? They could wear leather helmets again if that would mean a Big 12 title.

One more season of struggle is the pick here for CU football. Breaking in a new quarterback, finding receivers, hoping the offensive line is good enough and generating a pass rush are all big concerns. If Dan Hawkins can weather one more storm and show progress some how, some way and recruit his tail off then year 3 could be the season when he and the Buffs start to reap the fruits of labor and faith. Success doesn't come quickly, it is a process. Hawkins has the plan and is working it. Patience is needed. Five wins might disappoint many but that would be a big step forward, quality improvement.

Rumor has it, according to the Denver Post, that rotund defensive tackle Sam Adams could be the next addition to the Broncos defensive line. Adams is at the end of his career but could be motivated to dig deep for one more quality season if the money and winning atmosphere are right in Denver. Dude is larger than a Colorado mountain and would clog opposing running games like a visit to a roadside rest stop plugs a toilet.

The Rockies outlasted the Reds, 10-9, Sunday, taking two of three in the team's series. What impressed here was the continued hot hitting from pesky Willy Taveras and Kaz Matsui (one of general manager Dan O'Dowd's premier acquisitions), more wood from red-hot Brad Hawpe, who is playing some of the best ball of his career, a Garrett Atkins sighting (3 hits, 2 RBI) and Manny Corpas moving to the back of the bullpen with his excellence.

The day of the 40-homer swatter in Denver is over. Coors Field just plays differently, which is only going to hurt Todd Helton's post-career accolades. All Rockies hitters will now be seen as products of the environment more than be respected for their skills and production. That successful pitching is possible here now, a 10-9 game Sunday not withstanding, is a very good thing. Give me real baseball and not some carnival act any day. The Rockies can win with hitting, it is just a little more difficult now. It's not a day at the driving range or batting practice all day and all night long.

Sleeper big man arrives in Boulder

The recent departures of 6-10 Sean Kowal and 6-11 Marc Van Burck leave new CU men's basketball coach Jeff Bzdelik with a glaring shortage of big bodies as he prepares for his first season in Boulder.

Returning senior Marcus King-Stockton (6-9, 230), little-used walk-on Trent Beckley (6-10, 220), and incoming 6-11 freshman Caleb Patterson (see picture) are the only options available at the center position.

Bzdelik has made it known that he "wants players at every position who can dribble, pass and shoot the 3-ball." Clearly, Kowal and Van Burck were lacking in one or more of these areas, or they would still be on the roster. What is to be made then of Patterson, former coach Ricardo Patton's final recruit? Will he suffer a similar fate a year from now, or is the player from Ringwood, OK more suited to Bzdelik's style of play?

Basketball recruiting guru Greg Swaim said on his website a year ago

"Caleb has terrific size and knows how to get the most out of it with his long arms and shot-blocking ability. He shoots over 500 shots a day and is undergoing a rigorous daily workout schedule. He could play for a lot of mid-majors, but with a year of strength conditioning could easily blossom into a higher level player."

Swaim's latest evaluation is promising.

"Caleb is a legit 6'11 and actually more prepared to play outside right now, in that he is a little light to play inside in the Big 12 and certainly has more outside game. To be honest, I think the way Coach Bzdelik likes to play, Caleb is more ready to play early than he would have been for Coach Patton."

A close observer of Caleb concurs.

"Caleb is currently 7-feet, 230 lbs. He has never been on a good weight program because he went to a very small high school. He has a large bone structure and will readily put on weight in college, I believe, once he is working with the staff at Colorado. It wouldn't shock me for him to be 245 or so by the start of this season and at least 270 or more by the time he graduates.

"Caleb runs the floor very well, passes great and sees the floor exceptionally well. He has about a 30-inch vertical and has range out near the NBA three-point line.

"Coach Bzdelik was interested in Caleb at Air Force but he never showed any interest in AFA so they quit recruiting him. He can one-hand windmill dunk a basketball. Strength is his most glaring weakness at this point.

"I feel that Bzdelik's system fits him perfectly. He can face the basket and shoot anywhere on the floor but is also comfortable with his back to the rim shooting with either hand. I would say his ball-handling for a big man is very good and his hands are excellent. He had 376 blocked shots in two and a half years of high school basketball.

"His senior season Caleb averaged 17.3 points, 10.3 rebounds and 5.2 blocks per game. His junior season numbers were 17.2 points, 12.9 rebounds and 5.7 blocks."

If Patterson is able to provide solid minutes at the post his freshman year, it would address a major need for Bzdelik's first team at Colorado. Patterson is now on campus for summer school and will be working with new assistant strength coach for basketball, Jared Aurich, who is receiving rave reviews from current players for his innovative training techniques.

*story courtesy of Chris Wells.