Monday Heat

Wondering if I'm sauced or something as Denver out-defensed the Spurs in San Antonio, 95-89, in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series.

The Nuggets, pitiful defending their own goal since the preseason decided they wanted something kinky on Sunday and jumped in with passion, besting the Spurs at what they do best -- shutting down the other team.

While Denver got the one-two superstar efforts it needed from Carmelo Anthony (30 points and eight rebounds) and Allen Iverson (31 points, five assists), the rebounding and interior scoring from Nene (double-double) and Marcus Camby (10 boards), San Antonio struggled checking the visitors and running their offense, hitting but 42 percent from the floor while only earning 10 trips to the foul line.

Do I seem drunk to you or do I just feel that way?

The questions now that beg asking are can the Nuggets do this again? Can coach George Karl get victory three more times by reducing the exposure to risk by significantly limiting the court time of his bench players as he did Sunday.

One more key point that should not be underestimated is how Manu Ginobli did not abuse the Denver backcourt as he usually does. Being shackled and held to nine points aided the victory greatly as did Tony Parker's eight-of-20 shooting.

Still not sold on the Nuggets winning this series but this win wasn't smoke and mirrors.

In the money

CSU's Jason Smith and Nevada's Nick Fazekas, by way of the Colorado prep ranks, are going to be getting guaranteed money by being selected in the first round of the NBA draft come June, or so says a new link for this page (check the left-hand margin), DraftExpress.com.

The WSN agrees Smith is a lock. Fazekas gets differing reviews from pro scouts so his placement in the draft is more tenuous. If I had to lean one direction, I say he's a first rounder but just don't ask me to bet the house -- unless it's yours.

For CU fans, notice that Acie Law of Texas A & M is projected to go no. 14 overall. He wasn't that highly thought of last year at this time. With the coaching of Jeff Bzdelik, hard work and good health, Buffs' swingman Richard Roby could fly up the charts in the minds of the NBA minds come 2008 and be where Law is now.

Drafting

Here is the WSN draft help for the local pro football team who rarely has harvests worth a nickel, with 2006 being the very rare exception with the selections of prospects Jay Cutler, Tony Scheffler, Brandon Marshall and Elvis Dumervil.

Ideally, the WSN would prefer the Broncos trade up in round 1 to grab a premium prospect such as Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas, Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams or LSU safety LaRon Landry, even if that means putting all the team's eggs in one basket. And while it is expected Denver will do all it can to advance, the picks below for the team's initial choice in the opening go-around will be based on the assumption the team is unable to do so.

The Six-Pack

Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
---His talent is undeniable. Nelson isn't the biggest safety and there are concerns about, hate to say it, his intelligence but on the field, he simply makes plays, and more plays. The Broncos could use a talent like him in the backyard. That said, while some experts believe he could be around at the end of round 1, I don't. If he shockingly is, Denver would be a fool (and it often is in the draft) to not rip him out of other team's hands.

Tony Ugoh, OT, Arkansas
---Not the aggressive mauler scouts love. More of a finesse player with technique, which is the type of lineman the Broncos usually like. Wouldn't be a glamorous pick to get fans' hearts beating fast but would add much needed talent and depth up front for the team's skill players.

Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn State
---Call me crazy but I believe Denver needs help at this position and any dependable playmaker they can find they need to (my ex-wife's favorite phrase to me) consider. Old-school tough and productive. Like the linebacker the Broncos used to employ in the 1970s and 80s.

Jarvis Moss, DE, Florida
---Not in love with the super-thin rusher but if Denver's top targets are off the board when its' their turn to pick, Moss should be considered, solely because the team's extreme deficiency in getting to the quarterback. In time, with the proper work ethic, he could become another Simon Fletcher.

Aundrae Allison, WR, East Carolina
---Most don't think he's first-round caliber but since when did that ever stop Denver from picking that type of player. Face it, Jay Cutler is the horse the Broncos want to ride. So, surround him with talent that will maximize his skills. Rod Smith is done, Brandon Marshall is still not proven and Javon Walker is begging for less double coverage.

Aaron Ross, CB, Texas
---Denver may not want to pay huge money to another cornerback with Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly taking home CEO portfolios but consider this idea -- taking the playmaking Ross, if unavailable at no. 21 (unlikely) and plugging his skill set in at free safety. Wow. Can we say, Pro Bowl? Sometimes we have to think outside of the box.

Scoreboard grumblings

Maybe Dan O'Dowd knew what he was doing after all. The Rockies general manager allowed workhouse pitcher Jason Jennings to get away to Houston, via a trade, and although centerfielder Willy Taveras and pitcher Taylor Buchholz are early busts, starter Jason Hirsh, a minor-league phenom a season ago, is looking like the real deal.

Sunday, he bested Greg Maddux and San Diego, 4-2, going seven strong innings, lowering his ERA to 3.16, a mark we just don't see out of Colorado starting pitchers. The man is even capable of strikeouts (7), something else this franchise is not used to but has always desperately needed at Coors Field.

Red-hot Matt Holliday had three more hits to bump his average to .382.

It's but one day, one game, but it was a good, good day.

Random ramblings

So imagine, if you will, a world different than we've ever known it. Could it be better, would it be worse, or because we're human, would the song remain the same.

Maybe one day these two schools of thought will leave the attitudes at the door and collaborate for the common good of the world.

Five dating myths to take a look at, courtesy of Maxim.com and Tango magazine, via Yahoo. My favorites? Men and women as friends and men and women -- forgiveness and forgetting (not for the faint of heart because it's too true).

Imminent record holder or not, he still is an arrogant, disrespectful, disgraceful person representing his sport. Hope the adulation is enough because he won't have much else one day. Reminds me of the reported personality of Ty Cobb, minus the racism.

Sunday Truth

John Mosure continues to make a name for himself in a methodical fashion, positioning his talent for the fall, piling up 49 yards on nine carries to lead the Gold past the Green, 14-9, in CSU's spring game that wrapped up the season's work.

Despite the low score, there was offensive production.

Quarterback Caleb Hanie went 10-for-14 for 126 yards, including a 14-yard strike to George Hill. Hanie has been compared to former Ram Bradlee Van Pelt but truth is Hanie is a step up as a passer and potentially a better player.

Receiver Luke Roberts finished off a strong spring as he had three catches for 56 yards. Wrote it before -- his size and consistency could make him a reliable chain mover.

Gartrell Johnson added 48 yards on the ground in nine carries but Michael Myers, a spring surprise, struggled, earning just 28 yards on 10 totes.

Linebacker Zac Bryson, defensive back Darryl Williams and lineman Blake Smith all stood out on defense, units that bagged 10 sacks.

Now that's an up-and-down day for the offensive lines. Production, surely, but weakness all around. Somebody put in a call to an OL mechanic.

Proving ground

The Nuggets are back in the playoffs again (thank you George Karl) but what will this team do during Money Time and against defensive demons San Antonio?

Carmelo Anthony, he of .362 shooting for his 18.6 points per game playoff averages, has to find the answers to his woeful postseason efforts. Maybe having Allen Iverson as a dynamic scorer riding shotgun will help, as will a healthy Nene bumping and bruising down low.

Denver's offense can not get bogged down in a traffic jam if it is to merely compete in this series. It must flow for longer spurts and score points. Defensively, the Nuggets are in big trouble because they are not all of a sudden going to show up and be jock mates of the Spurs.

David Ramsey of the Colorado Springs Gazette says a seven-game slug-fest should be the expectation but the word here is San Antonio eliminates Denver in 5 games.

But if you listen closely. Shhh...hear it. Listen. Here it is, a bold, but dissenting voice.

Kelly dishes to WSN on Denver playoffs

We've all heard how the Spurs are going to manhandle the Nuggets in the team's playoff series that opens today but I wanted to know how Denver can win the series.

Seems the half-court game execution is going to be critical.

"San Antonio is not going to let them run," Michael Kelly of Longmont's Times-Call said. "They're too disciplined for that. (The Nuggets) have to keep moving the ball, almost like Phoenix does, to get the best shot."

So can Denver be effective enough playing slow-down ball to make the Spurs work to win the series?

"San Antonio is a great team but they are not invulnerable," Kelly said. "They are going to have their moments of weakness but to push it to seven games, it's going to take winning one, if not two games on the road because San Antonio is a pretty good road team (27-14) and they're disciplined."

For the record, Kelly picks...the Spurs in 6.

The WSN has settled on San Antonio in 5. The Nuggets are capable but not mentally on par with the Spurs nor does Denver know how to play playoff defense.

Sleepers

Everyone wants to know which team will surprise so I asked Kelly that question, too.

While he mentioned Miami out of the East due to the champions' low seeding in 2007 he settled on a new, old power.

"I think Chicago is a sleeper because they play good defense and have a good perimeter game," Kelly said. "They also have some experience with Ben Wallace in the middle."

So, what about out West?

"Houston. They won without its' top two scorers (Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming) in the lineup for a lot of games," he said. "They could easily get past Utah."

Smooth strikes

Former George Washington High School and CU star Chauncey Billups poured in 22 points while also being charitable with 11 assists as Detroit beat Orlando, 100-92, in a first-round playoff victory on Saturday.

Doyel on CU basketball

Gregg Doyel of CBSSportsline.com hit me with a one-liner on the new state of CU basketball after the hiring of Jeff Bzdelik.

"Coach Bzzz will win as much as anyone can (legally) win at CU."

Ah, yeah. Interesting way of putting it but you get his point -- the Buffs have issues now but Bzdelik's determination, work ethic and vision has the strong potential of making CU a program linked to success. Throw in the desire at the top to create change and with apologies to Michael Buble, you have the makings of a new dawn, a new day, a new life...for me, and CU is feeling good.

You're on the clock --NFL draft

Me being the solicitor that I am I have asked for you to make the call on the Broncos' draft picks as, well, heaven knows they need help doing so.

Marcus Nash, Paul Toviessi, Willie Middlebrooks, Travis McGriff, Ashley Lelie, Mark Wahlberg, Cuba Gooding, Jr.

So, first in is David, who is on the table, as they say, selling his guys.

"OT: Joe Staley, Central Michigan "Smallish" (310 lbs) and athletic tackle who is ideal for the Broncos' system. With (Matt) Lepsis coming off of injury and the other tackle spot a question mark, they would be wise to snatch him up....he couldn't be worse than George Foster, right?

"S: Eric Weddle, Utah Not a 1st-round pick but if he is available it would be smart to pick up "Mr. Everything" for the Utes and groom him to be (John) Lynch's successor."

WSN: Now, David, that's what I'm talking about. You walk into the house and proclaim it yours and start naming names. Staley is indeed a hot name from a little-known school and Denver needs fortification on the offensive line. And you're right, could the guy have less passion than Foster? That's a rhetorical question, by the way.

Weddle was a collegiate stud but I hear his pro prospects might be limited due to lack of athleticism. If he slips into the later rounds of the draft, then yeah, I'm with you.

By the way, I have copyrighted "Mr. Everything" for myself. Don't be giving it away to Weddle or anyone else or you'll be hearing from my attorney.

Quality contribution, David.

Hotshots

Here are the hottest Rockies' prospects, by performance, which is the only thing worth caring about in the WSN book.

AAA-Colorado Springs

Stud pitching prospect Ubaldo Jimenez has been awful. Is this guy hurt? There has to be some excuse for his 15.09 ERA in 11 and 1/3 innings.

Outfielder Ryan Spilborghs (.340, 3 home runs, 8 RBI) and third baseman Ian Stewart (.327) are the people getting it done with the bats. The time is now for Stewart to show he can hit for average (a must in the Pacific Coast League to prove worth) and improve the charge in his "wood" by cranking a few more balls over the fence.

AA-Tulsa

Power pitchers Franklin Morales and Juan Morillo are struggling but starter Greg Reynolds and reliever Jarrett Grube aren't. Reynolds, while not a power arm, is proving himself to be smart with good command and difficult to dent (1.50 ERA). Grube is improved in that he is not as easy to score upon (1.13 ERA).

Shortstop Jon Herrera (.357) and outfielders Matt Miller (.349) & Joe Gaetti (.326) are bruising the opposition's offerings.

A-Modesto

Starter Brandon Hynick, dominant a season ago, hasn't allowed an earned run in 18 frames. This is someone who is being followed closely by Colorado general manager Dan O'Dowd.

A-Asheville

Starter Keith Weiser and reliever Ethan Katz are off to strong starts. Weiser is hittable (17 hits in 17 innings) but has good control (14 strikeouts and only two walks) and wins. Katz hasn't been scored on in 12 innings. Guess that's good, huh?

First baseman Michael Paulk has shown no power but is a hit machine (.367).

Scoreboard grumblings

Those bumbling Rockies threw batting practice to San Diego on Saturday but no one told Colorado that the Padres and Major League Baseball were secretly keeping score. 7-3, San Diego, I hear. Jeff Francis was as flammable as teammate Josh Fogg was the night before, throwing softballs to the plate which were battered for six runs and 13 hits in six innings. If you're asking me to finally say something nice, well, Garrett Atkins and Matt Holliday banked three hits each.

Word on the street

Tomorrow, I talk to Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com and Air Force football coach Troy Calhoun. If all lines up, those interviews will be published mid-to-late week.

Also out in the street looking for an interview to talk about CSU's spring work on the field.

Because it matters

To the souls of the departed, this is to show you weren't just names in news stories but living, breathing human beings with faces, hearts, minds and potential. Bless your loved ones and rest in peace.

Final say

I really like to have the last word. Can you tell?

Just so respect you letting me have it.

The Virginia Tech murders continue to get the run in the news and like any big news junkie, I watch it all like a ghoul, a rubber necker and I'm ashamed of myself. But my mind is just one that has to know all about I don't understand.

A friend sent me a Wall Street journal article detailing the failings along the way in what became a slaughter on a U.S. college campus, which provoked my spirit, as many injustices do.

Here's the final say -- why all this happened is very simple -- civil liberties. Hey, I want mine but the problem is beyond the general issuing of those rights to all citizens. I truly believe Virginia Tech, for all the heat it is receiving, wanted to do something about the eventual killer but the government wants carnage first in many things before it will act. Whether it be stalking-to-murder or molestation to rape, plane crashes or mass murders, our law is set up to ignore warning signs. Actually, it does more than ignore them, it refuses to look, which makes it guilty.

So, bottom line, and this is unarguable, the government stands in the way of prevention then it shakes its' head and says "ah, such a terrible thing."

The local, state and federal government all have blood on their hands in this case and many others. Virginia Tech's culpability is much less.

Saturday kickoff

Is it August yet?

CSU running back Kyle Bell wants to know.

And coach Sonny Lubick is marking off the days as well until Bell is back practicing and flashing his talent.

Bell must be ready to go -- durable and productive -- for this Rams' offense to be someone again on Saturday's.

Quarterback Caleb Hanie is begging Bell to bring it and the coaching staff is going to church, asking for prayer.

Bell means that much.

With him, CSU has a balanced offense and can be physical and control the game. Without his presence and production, it becomes a lower-level unit. Yes, freshman John Mosure is intriguing but no one is comparing him to Bell, Cecil Sapp or Steve Bartalo yet.

Scrimmage time

CSU's Green vs. Gold spring scrimmage is here and the Rams will knock heads today to conclude the season's work.

Reports tomorrow.

Proof in the pudding

Anyone who doubts CU's commitment to winning in basketball is not looking in the right direction.

Athletic director Mike Bohn went hard after Jeff Bzdelik and got the verbal commitment and the letter of intent and he did it with a contract that is heavy on language that expects and rewards victory, not that the ultra-competitive coach needed money to motivate him.

The Buffs are finally showing they truly want to be a player in the Big 12 scraps and come March.

Arkansas could look to high altitude for help

Could Arkansas come after Rockies' executive and former CSU and Broncos' football player Keli McGregor for its' new athletic director?

Not according to Tracy Ringolsby of the Rocky Mountain News.

McGregor would be an excellent choice for the Razorbacks and has the strong personality and experience to succeed but leaving the Rockies appears unlikely do to familial roots.

Who is this man

CU's Stephone Robinson was a standout prep player and he's certainly had his moments as a Buff but largely, his promise has gone unfulfilled.

This is the last rodeo for him and he has to decide how he wishes to be remembered.

Robinson doesn't lack talent. Confidence, yes, and enough hard work, who knows, but this is it for him.

He should, it says here, with some help from his teammates, average double figures in punt returns, breaking a few and be solid in kick returns.

The problem is he's going to have competition this season if spring practices are any indication as Hugh Charles and Bernard Jackson appear to be more explosive returning kicks.

Either Robinson steps up or becomes the Invisible Man.

Speaking of that local baseball team

Colorado traded one of it's two best starting pitchers ever when it sent Jason Jennings (Pedro Astacio was the other) to Houston this past offseason but now it appears the former Rockies' hurler could struggle to compete this season due to injury.

Not that Colorado made out like bandits in that deal as centerfielder Willy Taveras has not done squat at the plate and Taylor Buchholz is in the bullpen and not impressing. The saving grace for general manager Dan O'Dowd is that starter Jason Hirsh looks very promising as a no. 2 or no. 3 starter.

Mail from me to you

A CU fan sent this my way and so I share with you -- a blast from years past -- Jeff Bzdelik on a coaches' show.

Win and be forgiven

From Jeff Goodman of FoxSports.com.

"BEST WAY TO GET A JOB: Billy Gillispie was hired at Kentucky despite a pair of DUIs. Kevin Willard got the Iona gig after being arrested for a DUI a few years back. (Bob) Huggins also has one DUI on his resume. What does all this mean? I'm not really sure."

WSN: This country overlooks big issues for sports and politics and well, so much more. But we love to pontificate about morals. So what's that say?

The vibe

Spoke about it yesterday and Aaron Lopez of the Rocky Mountain News has now written about it.

Playoff time for the Nuggets and what happens to bench players Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith, two talented scorers with major chinks in their games.

The breakdown, friends, is this -- Kleiza and Smith can get away with their flaws during the regular season but those shortcomings will be magnified against San Antonio. The two shot-jackers will have to play as Denver can't play with only five players but look for Kleiza and Smith to have less of an impact on games in this series, which means less offense. The starters will have to do more.

Post Office

From Paul, who is one of the WSN's top unpaid collegiate scouting directors for the Broncos, who, we all know, need more than a little help when it comes to drafting.

"Just got done doing some perusing around the internet about the NFL draft, and there are two names that I think the Broncos should consider. Safety Michael Griffin of Texas (IF he lasts, which he probably won't, until our spot in the 2nd round, take him) and Florida State linebacker Buster Davis. I think Buster would be a solid selection in the third round, and maybe good enough for a second round...although I think that's reaching for it. Still, I've been a fan of his ability since his HS days, and he didn't disappoint in college -- hopefully he won't in the NFL."

WSN: Paul, I like the work you're putting in. I do think Denver needs a Dennis Smith or Steve Atwater-type back at the safety position. Been a long time since they had a playmaker at the back end of the defense. Love John Lynch's leadership and effort but he is on the downside of a very good career. Personally, I prefer the Broncos trade up to get a stud safety like LaRon Landry of LSU in round 1 than select one of the many question marks at defensive end. If they do, however, go DL initially, then a safety in the later rounds, say Michael Johnson of Arizona, could reap dividends. Griffin was solid at Texas but I don't know if the pro scouts love his game.

At linebacker, you mentioned Davis, who was a high-school All-American who spurned Nebraska for the Seminoles and played well. He is only 5-foot-9 though so he will be drafted lower than his talent indicates he should but he could become a London Fletcher, Sam Mills-type steal.

Three new mock NFL drafts

Here are some new names for the Broncos you may not have seen yet -- a couple of linebackers (whom the WSN doesn't like in round 1) and a kick-returner extraordinaire and prospect at wide receiver.

Can't any of these mock experts get it right? Of course, Denver usually picks wild players too, making my eyes bulge.

Scoreboard grumblings

The Rockies got blitzkrieged at Coors Field by San Diego, 11-1, as skyscraper Chris Young (6-foot-10) shackled the bats while the Padres used Josh Fogg and four relievers for 17 hits. Yes, Colorado's pitching was ghastly but this team is simply not hitting and you have to wonder why? The lineup does miss second-sacker Kaz Matsui, centerfielders Willy Taveras and Steve Finley have been early busts as have young bucks Chris Iannetta and Troy Tulowitzki but...on second hand, I know why they have been ugly at the plate.

Manager Clint Hurdle is a decent man but most organizations would not have extended his contract before the season and after this weak start, his job would be on the line now with him likely to be dismissed in the next month if his team didn't right the ship.

So detective, tell me what happened

Your morning mystery.

Suicides?

Pirates?

Jokesters?

Friday Jam Session

Where's my country club membership, my perks, my money?

The University of Colorado board of regents has spoken and the word is good, very good. New Buffs' basketball coach Jeff Bzdelik "got his" and his wife and family are smiling.

Momma needs new shoes.

The best part of the contract for fans, other than the buyout from the Air Force Academy (sorry, Hans Mueh), is the financial incentive to win.

Fifteen games gets you paid, each additional couple of victories get you paid, tournament invites earn more lettuce and tournament victories get even more love.

It says here that those amounts should have been a much larger with less guaranteed money, but hey, I understand that's not the marketplace reality.

That's just the way I do business, you know?

Bottom line -- well-written deal, for both the school and the new coach.

Smith in

CSU star forward Jason Smith is not looking back. The man is in the NBA draft to stay.

Mostly.

While he could still withdraw if he doesn't sign with an agent you can tell his mind is made up and honestly, after last season, he should go. Factor in CSU not having Dale Layer coaching, thus giving Smith a comfort level if he felt anxious about the draft, and Smith has to go.

Poor guy, though, being labeled a poor man's Dirk Nowitzki.

Two important points -- Smith won't be poor for long and Nowitzki is insulted.

Smith has a legitimate shot at playing in the Association for a long time if he develops a Karl Malone-type work ethic to get better every day, every season. Smith has more talent than a lot of big stiffs littering NBA rosters so all he has to do is out-prepare them to succeed and in the words of Napoleon Hill, Grow Rich.

180 degrees

If former Wyoming head boy Steve McClain is Bzdelik's new lead assistant in Boulder, how can you not be excited for CU basketball?

From under-qualified Ricardo Patton (x's and o's) and his band of misfits on the bench to a proven NBA and college commodity (Bzdelik) and an assistant with a 157-115 record as a ringmaster, how can CU not be better, as in right now, today.

This team, in dream land, could hit the Coors Events Center floor this very moment and beat last season's team 10 out of 10 times.

Buffs' athletic director Mike Bohn tore down the house and is putting in a new foundation for a new one, one that should no longer be an eyesore.

Rams take one step back, two steps forward

CSU loses off-guard Tim Denson to a transfer but finally gets the autograph on star in-stater Stephen Franklin from Aurora Central High School.

CSU is losing recruits and players from the roster lately but a fresh start might not be a bad thing in the rebuilding of this program from both a talent and attitude standpoint.

Denson's loss is difficult for a team lacking in talent and scoring punch but no need trying to hold on to someone who doesn't love you. Franklin, in time, under new coach Tim Miles, it says here, will be a dependable player capable of "moments."

Miles scored yesterday, inking point guard Donte Pool from the desert -- North Las Vegas. You win with guards and if Franklin and Pool have the goods they will be given every opportunity to get what they most desire -- heavy minutes -- in Fort Collins.

You're the boss

So, do I get the job, sir?

I come into your place of business and I'm a hotshot with a resume that makes you fall in love immediately, knowing I can make your life easier while earning you a lot of money. No one is close to as qualified as me. I'm also tremendously good looking.

And modest.

Then, in the process of doing a background check, you find out I've smoked pot. Maybe I'm not a habitual user but hey, I'm young, I've tried it, maybe I even still go Bob Marley once in a while, likely at company parties.

I fess' up and admit I have crossed paths with that sticky green herb.

Do you hire me?

The NFL draft is here and touted prospects Calvin Johnson, who I think has already been inducted into the Hall of Fame from all the press I've read, baby defender Amobi Okoye and supreme-pass rusher Gaines Adams have all confessed to inhaling.

They were honest and that deserves respect in my book.

But does ignoring that admittance as a problem, as in not letting them slip in the draft, send the proper message -- smoke brother, it's o.k. as long as you are a premium talent because skill trumps lawbreaking. You know, sort of like letting hot chicks get out of speeding tickets.

For the record, I was a college student once. I'm human. I have flaws, I have regrets.

I'm taking the Fifth.

Draft note and comps

CU's Mason Crosby is the consensus top kicker in this April's draft but some are not convinced he is the real deal. Todd McShay of ESPN.com's Insider (subscription) writes, well, let's just say he believes Thunder Leg is overvalued.

The WSN book on Crosby is this and have written this before -- he could go as high as round 2 and will not last past the fourth go-around. He will stick in the league and play for years and has Pro Bowl ability.

An indoor stadium would make him the next Morten Anderson or Jason Hanson, which is to say one of the all-time greats.

No need being a wallflower and being shy about it.

Broncos lose Myers

So Michael Myers is checking out of Hotel Colorado, going to the jailbreak that is the Cincinnati Bengals, as a free agent. Denver didn't want Myers anymore because, from what I read, he wasn't "fat" enough for new defensive coordinator Jim Bates, who's type is really big men.

Hey, who doesn't like really big men?

Seems Bates needs that size to make his defense roll, to stone the run.

Myers was a solid contributor while in town and because of that, best wishes sent his way for success and contentment with the Bengals. Just guessing Cincinnati isn't as fun as Denver.

Nuggets cooked by media

As expected, San Antonio is expected to roll over Denver in the team's first-round NBA playoff series matchup. ESPN.com's Marc Stein is picking the "Texans" in six games, which might be giving the Nuggets one game too much credit.

Denver will have to prove it can break the Spurs' defense and score in the 100s while also finding a way not to get eaten alive by the Tony Parker-Manu Ginobli backcourt.

Up front, if Carmelo Anthony doesn't start showing up in the playoffs like he does the regular season, he's going to get a bad rap as a Barry Bonds' postseason flop. Other questions include Allen Iverson, as in can he make the plays when they need to be made, can Marcus Camby prove his worth now that the games mean more, can Nene be a difference maker, and will Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith disappear on the bench now because of shaky fundamentals?

Dunkin'

So who are the greatest dunkers of all time?

Both ESPN Classic and writer Chris Broussard of ESPN.com' Insider put former Nugget guard David Thompson at no. 8 on the list.

"Skywalker" had the lift that few did at his time. He has, however, been surpassed since. Names on the ESPN's list include all the usual suspects -- Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Vince Carter, and Julius Erving.

You and I didn't make the grade.

So, out of curiosity, how many on the ESPN Classic top-20 list won titles?

Four -- Jordan, Dr. J., Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade.

Turning over a new leaf -- Hog to Trojan

So, former uber-recruit Mitch Mustain is heading West, leaving Arkansas for USC? Difficult to argue going to L.A. as it is a glamor school for a glamor position. Questions, Mr. Mustain -- wasn't Mark Sanchez a super-hyped recruit at QB? Won't he be ready to play next season after J.D. Booty enters the NFL draft? What about Aaron Corp, who will be a redshirt freshman next season and is highly thought of? You're confident, as all great players are, but if you don't win the job next season, whatcha' gonna do then? Arena ball? And last thing -- you were upset when Arkansas ran the ball so much with Darren McFadden but last I checked, the Trojans usually have outstanding backs and want to take advantage of that in the ground game. Is that o.k. with you and your momma? Something tells me this isn't going to turn out well in Troy.

Farming news

Jack Etkin of the Rocky Mountain News puts out a labor-intensive report on Colorado Rockies' minor-league talent and in it, some notes of interest:

At AA Tulsa, Juan Morillo throwing flames at 101 miles per hour, shortstop Jonathan Herrera tearing it up (remember the name), hitting .333 and last year's top draft pick, Greg Reynolds, making it difficult for opposing hitters (1.50 ERA).

No one is catching my eye at the other levels to this point. Will give you the WSN insight all season long.

Etkin did highlight single-A Asheville shortstop Hector Gomez in his article and he is another middle infielder to watch, a player with range, arm and pop. Continue to check him out.

Now, here's some skinny for you -- at the highest level of the minors the players to track if you're a Rockies' fan are third baseman Ian Stewart (if he doesn't lose confidence and keeps working, he'll be spraying balls all over Coors Field one day) and outfielder Seth Smith (slight power but a quality hitter, potential starter). A secondary name is Ryan Spilborghs, a quality reserve and someone I think will eventually be part of a trade package.

Point to ponder

ESPN.com's Bruce Feldman, one of the best college football writers in the land, shares his view of the Virginia Tech shootings in his blog, saying, in essence that the media coverage should focus more on the good of the dead than the emotional autopsy of the twisted, poisoned mind of the killer.

Of course, in a case where people are slaughtered, it is our natural human inclination to ask the painful and obvious "why?"

We seek answers where there are none that will satiate us. We want to understand why this was the "answer" for someone when it didn't truly alleviate his pain. It was just a terrible tantrum.

With guns.

Sometimes, as Bruce Springsteen sings, "I guess there's just a meanness in this world."

And all we're left with is memories of lost today's and tomorrows, dreams that will never actualize themselves.

Scoreboard grumblings

Those stick-less Rockies fell to the Dodgers, 8-1, on Thursday, at Coors Field.

Where's the outrage by national writers over the way the park plays? Yes, L.A. scored eight times, courtesy of lousing pitching, not altitude, but how could Colorado push across but one run with its' lineup where runs are guaranteed, right?

Pitiful effort by the home team.

Please wake me when this team becomes interesting.

Lopez lost

Rodrigo Lopez, who was really dealing for the Rockies to this point, has a sore elbow and will shut it down for the foreseeable future.

Things like this happen to bad teams. A lot. Have you noticed?

Thought of the day

Nice guys get nothing.

They get run over.

At least, at Air Force, according to Milo Bryant of the Colorado Springs Gazette.

Note for the road

Had to re-schedule my interview with new Air Force football coach Troy Calhoun but we're on for Monday morning. The former Falcon player, assistant and former Broncos and Houston Texans' assistant will share his best in an interview, likely mid-week.

Random ramblings

Father of the Year

Wonder why kids are screwed up?

It usually starts at home.

Good luck to "dad" trying to rehabilitate his image. This is going to crush him.

"You're Don Imus? Hey, big fan of yours. My name is Alec. Are you stupid, too?"

Likely story

Poor woman ended up on injured reserve on some accident her friends will never let her live down -- if women did such a thing. Guess that's only men.

"Big Fish."

"Big Fish go boom."

Think Mr. Husband is going to hear about that one. Way to look out for your wife, dude. Scout the water next time. The presence of dinosaur fish means no place to have fun with your girl.

The health news you always wanted to hear

Who can't do good things for their body when it's just this easy?

Miles' colors; exclusive picks; Mad Max

New CSU basketball coach Tim Miles goes one-on-one with Natalie Meiser of the Denver Post.

And I watched.

What I see, and have noticed before is Miles enthusiasm and no-junk philosophy. The man doesn't come with a lot of bells and whistles, will not charm the fans but he will work, he loves to work and is passionate about basketball and winning.

He is what CSU needs right now.

One comment I remember from my conversation with Rams' athletic director Paul Kowalczyk is that Miles has 11 winning seasons in 12 years, while building programs. That tells me the new man knows how to focus on the task at hand, roll up his sleeves, and get dirty. He's going to will success on this program.

Recruiting will tell the story but when that falls into place, expect CSU to take the steps in the right direction.

Candidates

The NFL draft is just around the corner and now time is like the present so here is an exclusive look at who the Broncos' are likely interested in to add to the roster and potential strong fits.

This is the WSN Broncos Draft Talk. If you want to run your best, send it this way using the form to the left on this blog.

WR

Dwayne Bowe, LSU -- strong, productive target to round out receiving corps
Sidney Rice, South Carolina -- raw but BTP (Big, Talented, Productive)
Steve Smith, USC -- outstanding career but smallish; will make plays anyway
Craig Davis, LSU -- second banana to Bowe but well liked by scouts

OL

Wish I could tackle this but not going to

RB

Antonio Pittman, Ohio State -- Denver-style grinder
Ken Darby, Alabama -- has warts but also talent; sleeper; mid-round pick
Kenny Irons, Auburn -- senior slump cost him mega-bucks; can play

DE

Jarvis Moss, Florida -- speedy & intriguing but will struggle against the run
Adam Carriker, Nebraska -- solid, workmanlike, low risk but moderate ceiling
Dan Bazuin, Central Michigan -- a pass rusher; the home boys need one
Quentin Moses, Georgia -- strong talent, reported goldbricker
Jay Moore, Nebraska -- an athlete with pass-rushing potential
Brian Robison, Texas -- sleeper type that Denver likes; worker

DT

Amobi Okoye, Louisville -- worth a big trade up to get; explosive
Paul Soliai, Utah -- size and skills DC Jim Bates loves
Justin Harrell, Tennessee -- sluggish but word is Broncos like him -- surprise
Brandon Mebane, Cal -- skilled player from power conference

LB

Paul Posluszny, Penn State -- punches the clock; dependable; winner
Patrick Willis, Ole Miss -- great character & production
David Harris, Michigan -- he won't be around for them in round 2
Jon Beason, Miami -- another running, hitting Canes' 'backer

CB

Darrelle Revis, Pitt -- size and potential
Aaron Ross, Texas -- without Dre' Bly trade, he could have been the pick
Tanard Jackson, Syracuse -- has the skills but won't be there in round 2
Marcus McCauley, Fresno State -- big and skilled but will team look for DB
David Irons, Auburn -- rangy athlete; third round candidate
Chris Houston, Arkansas -- athlete but inconsistent; nickel back-type
Daymeion Hughes, Cal -- makes plays but reportedly slow and stiff
Ryan Smith, Florida -- solid playmaker at both Utah and Florida

S

LaRon Landry, LSU -- premium talent; would require trading up into top 10
Reggie Nelson, Florida -- solid; not big but will be decent-to-solid starter
Brandon Meriweather, Miami -- strong potential; off-field concerns
Michael Griffin, Texas -- Horns keep producing talent

If you want a larger-sample look at the first-round projections for Denver, this is the place.

While a certain name is mentioned above, I don't see him landing with the Broncos, but someone does. Denver could do worse.

WSN draft comments

Brady Quinn might not have the John Elway arm or have played a great bowl game against LSU (a staunch defense, by the way) but with the right team, he will be a big winner. Watch. There is also more of a bust factor with JaMarcus Russell. Of course, he also offers the biggest upside.

And if you're into "what if" scenarios, here's some re-drafting for you.

Letters

Staying with the draft, here's Paul walking into my office, throwing up his arms and questioning me as general manager of the Broncos from my comments from yesterday. Should I fire him?

"Truth - WR? We already have (Brandon) Marshall ready to step up, (Brandon) Stokley signed, and (Dominik) Hixon back this year. While I don't disagree, that if Steve Smith is still available in the third round or so (which I highly doubt, take him). Our first rounder should be a D-lineman or safety."

WSN: Brother, here's the thing -- Marshall is exciting but he hasn't yet done it for a full season and then he goes and does something stupid in the offseason. Stokely has injury questions although if healthy he can be the third or fourth receiver Denver hasn't been able to find for years. Hixon is also coming off injury so we haven't seen him do anything yet.

I like the way you think as I see Smith, who was hidden behind Dwayne Jarrett's big shadow at USC, as the real deal as a no. 3 pass catcher for Jay Cutler. That said, I'm in the same boat with you as this team needs a Rulon Jones/Simon Fletcher-type quarterback hunter or a Dennis Smith-like safety. Surprisingly, despite the record, the Broncos have multiple holes on the roster. In the end, I like Denver to sell out to trade up for a DL or S and if that fails, try to trade down for another pick or two and then fortify DL, S, WR, RB, LB and CB.

Dempsey weighs in

Marcus Camby is the NBA defensive player of the year, says Chris Dempsey of the Denver Post.

I haven't seen as many players and as many games as CD but if you read this space regularly you know I believe in the power of Camby. The man is one of the best players, not just centers, to ever roll through Denver.

How many have rebounded and blocked shots like him?

That's a short list -- Dikembe Mutombo.

Camby is not perfect but he's got far more horse in him than most who have worn the Nuggets' jersey. I hear many say he's only a weakside defender but truth is his stellar rebounding, shotblocking and shot-altering presence make him formidable.

Just say no

Denver would be wise to "get it" this time around.

Just smile and say "sorry, it's over."

Hey, you find a hottie, go out with them and have them pull the rug out from under you, it hurts. You saw them to do it to someone else and yet you still dove in head first. Now you're thinking of giving this person some more run?

No, you protect yourself.

Yeah, former Broncos' punter Todd Sauerbrun loved it here, said all the right things, even after leaving, but his behavior pattern of substance violations is out there for all to see.

Take him back now that he's free from New England and you just guarantee yourself you're going to come home one day with a broken heart, crying all over my shoulder.

Then what am I supposed to do?

Hold you?

Scoreboard grumblings

The Nuggets' junior varsity bested the Spurs JV on Wednesday, 100-77. The ironic thing is the NBA is so concerned about teams tanking games in hopes of landing a few more ping pong balls for the draft but then it could care less about the paying public having to watch stars sit on the bench and witness glorified playground ball. The league office is a fraud. One more thing, this game means nothing for those who think Denver might actually have a chance in the playoffs against San Antonio. Some positive observations from the game were Reggie Evans dominance like he was playing at the "Y," scoring 19 and ripping down 20 rebounds, Jamal Sampson's 12 boards against former Nugget Francisco Elson (who should be embarrassed) and strong outings from Steve Blake and J.R. Smith.

Rodrigo Lopez and four relievers minimized the nine hits the Rockies allowed the Dodgers in a 7-2 victory. Colorado still isn't showing much power in the lineup but seven runs and 13 hits against Derek Lowe is a good night. Can I bum a cigarette?

And I don't even smoke.

The scoop

Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle, a quality arm but hardly a dominating type no-hit a talented Texas Rangers' lineup with ease, even striking out eight hitters, showing smarts, control and command go a long way towards pitching success. One day, the Rockies' Jeff Francis, with work, could become Buehrle.

Mad Max

How many more potential cases of killers germinating are there in this country?

Especially when deeply depressed and angry souls discover a way to get the attention they aren't getting now, regarding themselves as martyrs.

Such individuals, regardless of our views now, are our problem. And if we deny that reality we open ourselves up to the possibility of Columbine, Virginia Tech and other living nightmares.

One suggestion that is not the answer is this stupidity. Let's try it out and see how long before we have a string of domestic, on-campus homicides over affairs of the heart and alcohol-related revelry.

O.K., I'm better now.

Just had to purge.

You understand.

Drafting; NCAA freak out; Eastern wisdom

Some media, especially Bill Williamson of the Denver Post, like Nebraska defensive lineman Adam Carriker as the Broncos' first-round choice in the end-of-the-month NFL draft.

The problem, at least it says here in this space, is Carriker is likely to be gone come Denver's turn to choose. The former Huskers' size and production in Lincoln is going to be difficult to reject by teams higher up in the round. Despite that reality, Carriker is not, remember this, a high-ceiling player. He would be an improvement but dominance or Pro Bowls are not likely in his future.

While the WSN likes a defensive lineman badly for the Broncos don't be surprised if they go for another position, maybe even on offense, say a wide receiver. Quarterback Jay Cutler needs help there as well as offensive tackle.

For Jim Bates' defense, some linebacking help would be smart as would more depth at cornerback and a playmaking safety (file the name LaRon Landry).

More pickins'

Checked out Todd McShay's seven-round mock draft at ESPN's Insider and you'll see CU had one player -- one -- projected to be selected. That unknown kicker they have, going in round 3.

And some wonder why the Buffs came up short many times last season on the field. They had no juice.

CSU was a no-show on the list.

Both the Buffs' Dan Hawkins and the Rams' Sonny Lubick are well aware of those numbers.

By the way, McShay likes the Broncos to go D-line in round one, only he likes Florida's rangy pass rusher, Jarvis Moss.

I don't. At all.

Think former Alabama standout and NFL fraud down in Tampa Bay, Eric Curry, when you ponder Moss.

Anal leadership

O.K., we all know about abuse of power and we all know that abuse of power and N-C-A-A are one strong, unbreakable couple. Check out their latest fetish.

Let's see -- can we find something else we can control because, well, we're control freaks, instead of looking for significant ways to make the college athletic experience better for those who play the games.

I'll bet the NCAA people are so much fun at parties, don't you?

Imagine the shop talk.

And the bored women.

Maybe the NCAA should co-op with the Internal Revenue Service people and the both of them could enjoy swapping stories of their cults.

Wisdom from back East

It greatly amuses me that I often read criticism of Marcus Camby.

How many times has Denver had a center of his caliber?

Reminds me of how unappreciated point guard Andre Miller was while he was in town.

Finally, someone sees Camby for who he is -- right here.

You find a big man who can consistently rebound, block some shots and score a little, you shut your mouth, pay him and respect him. Some in the media think a talent like him can be picked up at any convenience store for loose change in the car.

Scoreboard grumblings

It was the Giants' bullpen which melted Tuesday as the Rockies ripped them for five runs in the eighth inning to send San Francisco to bed a 5-3 loser. Giants' starter Matt Cain mowed down Colorado for seven frames but Jason Hirsh kept his team in the game until the bats broke out to win it. Hirsh is looking as solid as the man he is replacing, Jason Jennings, but it's still early. The Rockies' bats are still not doing the job, although Todd Helton is off to an uncharacteristically hot start, minus the power. This team needs some juice right now all over but where that's going to come from, who knows. Patience is mandatory. It's all fans have to use.

Virginia Tech pain

What parent could ever conceive their child could and would become a murderer, a mass murderer?

How do they explain anything, say anything to anyone?

What types of introspection is going on in their hearts?

We hear forgiving is forgetting but how do you forgive in the flesh?

This life is so full of pain, a rough ride. Why then, as human beings, do some of us have no difficulty assaulting or killing others.

How do we justify it?

Do we really believe we're selling the drama?

Did the gunman's meltdown give him the power, the revenge he needed to feel whole?

Is that why he shot himself?

Like a coward?

How does one comfort a loved one of those slaughtered as though they were sub-human?

Muy loco

O.K., I understand not taking criticism well but challenging a talk show host to a fight?

Come on now, do you realize even if could knock him out that you can never win such a fantasy in the court of public opinion?

You don't think MLB won't be giving you a ring, ring on that, too?

Focus on managing. Winning shuts up a lot of fools, or so my fortune cookie says.

Speaking truth

Here's a fun argument for this politically-correct hypocritical society of ours. On race. On white legs. See what you think. Black quarterbacks, white running backs. Why does this all still matter to a supposedly evolved culture? See, I'm odd. Give me talent -- football, girls, whatever -- in any color. I'm looking for the bottom line and not thinking of how others think it should be. Just give me performance and leave the rest of the junk at the door because it doesn't mean anything.

On the house

In this space, I like to keep some Gregg Doyel around for amusement. No one pokes at the truth like him. Yeah, he gets under some people's skin but he is honest and well, funny to at least one in this world. What gets him run here is the fact I respect he is greatly offended at misinformation, lying and bad acting from all those in the sports' world.

Must be brothers from a different mother.

Here are his latest Dribbles from around this country of ours.

Check the links to the left of this page for his column, including a powerful new piece on New York fans' love-hate affair with Alex Rodriguez.

Trivial

LeBron James. King James. King of Excess.

Building a new home.

Word is, from the Sporting News, the joint will max out at 35,440 square feet.

Coming tomorrow

Tomorrow, a look into potential Broncos' draft selections on both sides of the ball in this month's NFL draft.