Okay, I'm already down one.

Thank you for all the feedback. I get it, I get it:

-Once-a-week is plenty for this blog.
-Pearl Jam went downhill after Vitalogy.
-I need an assistant just for Andy's fan mail.
-Chris wears some really ugly sweaters.

I press forward anyway.

We're not overhyping Drake. 16 straight wins is impressive anywhere, and of all the one loss or no loss teams to play Creighton at the Qwest Center, Drake is the first to win. First of 19. The RPI (power ranking) of 8 is more important than the AP ranking of 22.

Another reason I don't gamble: Iowa State at Kansas. My buddy who does, took the Cyclones and 23.5 points. Seemed like a good bet to me. With 10 seconds to play and ISU down 22, it looked good for the friend I'll call "Ryan" (is his real name). But then, ISU missed an easy shot, KU kicks it to the other end, and makes a jumper at the buzzer. Kansas by 24. See ya later, money.

Hang in there, Todd Lickliter. It will get better soon.

Reluctantly I went to see Juno with my nephew, Jason. Didn't think I'd like it much, and I really enjoyed it. It's so fresh and quirky that it took me a few minutes to settle into it, but once I was hooked, I really cared about the characters. Props to Iowa's Diablo (Brooke) Cody on her much deserved Oscar nomination for writing Juno. A- I was also pleased to see Tommy Lee Jones a surprise best actor nominee for The Valley of Elah. He was terrific, and nearly as good in No Country for Old Men.

Can't believe Gene Simmons basically fired himself on Celebrity Apprentice. He was fun to watch. (Hey, there's a writer's strike.)

Scattershot Thoughts

At the suggestion of many, I will try--TRY--to write some thoughts on this blog each and every day I work, instead of every few days, or even weekly. I won't always make it because in addition to my duties managing a sports department and preparing nightly sportscasts, I also have to answer Andy's fan mail (3 hours daily), pick-up after Chris (2 hours), and listen to Shawn talk about the wonder that is Pearl Jam (1 hour). But I will try...

This Drake story is good for everyone. It's just nothing but positive energy. No one hates Drake. When the Hawks do well, many Cyclone fans hate it, and vice-versa. But Drake is Switzerland...

Drake "gets it". Of course the Bulldogs noticed all the fans and media started showing up when Drake started winning, but the Dogs aren't mad or resentful... They're appreciate and thankful. That's what you should do, enjoy the ride. Too often when a team starts receiving coverage and sold out crowds, players or coaches or ADs grumble, "Oh sure, now that we're winning, you care." Well, yeah. Hello. The more people interested, the more everything. That's just the way it works. See how much coverage ESPN gives the Timberwolves this week...

Loved Cotman and Dolph's call of the last-second win over Bradley. Couldn't really understand it, but that's what was great. Unadulterated joy...

Just received my copy of Mark Meisenheimer's new book No Pants Required. Chapter 9: What's Bugging Andy Now? It's targeted toward people thinking about getting into sportscasting, but it's so peppered with people you know (Andy, Todd Bailey, John Walters, Zubin Mehenti, Paul Burmeister, Mark himself), that anyone who follows local sports broadcasting should enjoy the inside stories. More info at www.nopantsrequired.com
We'll have Mark on SoundOFF soon to talk about the book. I think it might go over better than the immortal Green Fields...

Loved the anecdote from the Register's Randy Peterson about Iowa coach Todd Lickliter making the Hawks go back and clean up after themselves in the visitor's locker room after winning at Michigan. I'm a father. I can relate...

How did tennis go from one bland Superstar, Pete Sampras, to another, Roger Federer. These guys have everything but charisma. Federer is beyond belief. And boring...

So what if Tom Brady had a cast on his foot, he can't move anyway. He could beat the giants with a leg cast on...

I understand Albert Pujols being upset he was falsely linked to the Mitchell report for a few hours, but he needs to practice a little forgiveness. The anger won't serve anyone well, especially Pujols...

I'm not the LT fan I was in the past. I can't get on him for not playing---how would I know how hurt he is or isn't---but he deserves criticism for not supporting his teammates more...

Did you see Tom Coughlin's face? I haven't seen mild frostbite like that since Steve Martin and John Candy rode in the back of that pick-up truck...

I'll try...

Scattershot thoughts...

Drake belongs in the top 25, but when you're coming from nowhere, it's hard to move up. Two more wins, and I guarantee they're in Monday. If Drake and Illinois State both win Wednesday, Saturday's game at the Knapp Center would feature a clash of 6-0 teams for the first time in conference history. What a great story...

I'm okay with the Barnstormers signing former Cyclone Jason Berryman. I was against Dan McCarney putting him back on scholarship, but this is a pro team, and unlike most star athletes, Berryman actually paid an appropirate price for his criminal behavior...

Cheers to my former colleague Mark Meisenheimer. Mark wrote another book, "No Pants Required", about sportscasting. Info at www.nopantsrequired.com (I'm shocked that URL isn't taken by some porn peddler, but it's actually Mark's book.). There are chapters showcasing several of my favorite people in this business: Andy Fales, Todd Bailey, Zubin Mehenti, and John Walters...

That was great coaching by Todd Lickliter against #6 Michigan State. Lickliter's Iowa team was completely outgunned by the far more talented Spartans, but he found a way to give Iowa a chance by slowing the game down and giving his team a chance to win ugly. It wasn't pretty, but it worked...

I'm convinced the Big Ten Network is bad for Iowa. The last thing you need to do is teach your fans they can live without you, and that's just what the BTN is doing for Iowa. It also hurts attendance by making the players less familiar to fans, and by starting many games at 8 p.m. That's way too late for weeknight games. How many parents are taking their kids from Des Moines to Iowa City on a school night when they won't be back until midnight? I had to wait for Shawn to show highlights of Saturday's shocker because I don't have the Big Ten Network either...

The I-Cubs do just about everything right. FanFest is another example...

I've never seen an NFL quarterback play better than Tom Brady is right now. It's unreal...

Craig Brackins should score at least 15 points every game for Iowa State. The guy has offensive skills like few players anywhere. He's a Freshman, so he'll look lost on occasion, but he should also take over now and again...

Any talk of Greg McDermott not doing a good job is premature. Give him time. It's too early...

No Country for Old Men is a great film. Tense, violent, and unpredictable. However, if you like neat, tidy endings, stay away. A-

Andy and I are overwhelmed at all the e-mails (and old fashioned letters). We've received more than a hundred, most of them positive and enthusiastic. (There are dozens of examples in the previous three blog entries)

I can't beging to fully articulate how nice it is to have Andy back. We were giddy doing SoundOFF together again, and if anything, might have been having too much fun, but we'll work hard to find the right tone.

I also feel blessed to have Shawn Terrell, Chris Hassel, and Heather Burnside contributing good ideas and content to both SoundOFF and our nightly sportscasts...

Finally, good to have Erin back. She gave us all a scare on caucus night...

Keith

Even more on Andy's return...

Dear Keith & Andy,

I am thrilled to have Andy back on Sound Off, in part because he’s funny and genuine, but largely because both of you have such excellent chemistry together. You two are the Joey and Chandler, Han and Luke, or Jay and Silent Bob (without the silent) to our beloved local sports show. Carry on!

Rachel

Pella

Hey Guys,

Man, is it good to have Andy back!!! Definitely appreciated the going back to the original theme song too. I literally fell on the floor laughing during "he said/he said." And with SNF over, no more shortened episodes. Whoopee!

I had the good fortune of being in Des Moines and being able to watch the return episode, but now I'm back in Philadelphia and can't watch you guys on WHO. Any chance you could get the audio podcast of the show back up? Lately it hasn't been updated with recent episodes. In the future should I keep asking for it, or has the podcast been scrapped?

Josiah
Philly


ANDY’S BACK!!!!!!!
I can now watch sound off again, without cringing (much).

All is right with the world again.

Patricia
Des Moines


Why Andy Fales? He does not seem to know sports...we are sorry to see him back on WHO. Watching sports programs where he is involved are not fun to watch. Like Murph..but can't handle Andy.
Bill J.

ANDY IS BACK, ANDY IS BACK, OH LORD THANK YOU ANDY IS BACK
ERIC DORITY
DES MOINES

We are happy Andy is back. My daughter graduated from South Tama and was the one ringing that cowbell a few years ago when Andy landed in Tama with Chopper 13 and you guys kept repeating that famous line from SNL "we need more cowbell." ...

I sure would love for you guys to describe something on Soundoff on 1/13 with a quote "we need more cowbell" as she won't get to see the show for 6 months till she comes back in June.

P.S. Keith-been watching you since Lonesome Dove The Series on Sunday nights at Ch. 5:)

Connie in Tama

I was having a pretty crappy night last Sunday and was flipping through the channels and stopped on Sound Off when I saw Andy. I got excited and turned up the volume thinking he was back for a visit. How exciting it was to find out he’s back for good. Andy instantly turned my frown upside down. Welcome back!!!

Lisa in Otley

Thanks to WHO and Keith for bringing Andy back. My husband and I laughed together so much on Sunday night. Oh, and the mini nightly Soundoff's are great too but Andy, you just came back how could you use the word "jack-ass" Thursday night with Bachman on the air?!

Megan & Nathan

My gracious mother taped last week's show and mailed it to me. It is
SO nice to have the fabulous show back again and what a great show it
was last week. BUT, you gotta get the show livestreamed. It cost $5
just to mail a videotape to Kansas City and mom said she's not going
to do this for me every week!!!
Thanks Mom and it's good to have you back, Andy.
Travis in KC (for now... it's very tempting to return to IA)

Thank you, thank you, thank you----for bringing Andy back. He doesn't miss a beat. The two of you are the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

Altoona

(editor's note: much more feedback on Andy's return in the previous two Murphy's Law posts)

The e-mails on Andy's return just keep coming...

Keith,

I just wanted to drop a short note to let you know how much I enjoyed Sound Off on Sunday when Andy returned... You guys (including B-Ross) just seemed to be having a blast laughing and such, like a bunch of guys hanging out watching a game without wives or girl friends to tell you to stop acting stupid... That’s what makes Sound Off so popular, you have fun doing it.
And I loved the intro showing when Andy left and then you waiting for him to return, what a scream!
Jim
Des Moines

Hi-I just wanted to let you all know that I'm so excited that Andy Fales is back!!!!! I totally enjoy your Sunday night show! I was "teary" when Andy left as he walked away from us all-but was totally "happy" when he returned coming back to us- AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vicki Palm
Ottumwa


Thanks for the entertaining and informative "Sound Off" each Sunday evening! We really enjoy Keith, Andy and B. Ross! Keep up the good work and welcome back, Andy!

E.J.
Grundy Center


Ever since Seinfeld went off the air I have had an empty feeling in my life.
The one thing that could ease that pain was watching Sound Off. I found
that after seeing a few episodes of What's Bugging Andy I pretty much forgot
about Seinfeld. But then you left for Kansas City and once again I would
stare at the TV not knowing what the point was of having one was any more.
The only thing that started to bring me out of my funk was the anticipation
of American Gladiator. Needless to say when I found out you were back the
same weekend American Gladiator started I had to run around the house 3
times I was so excited.

Thanks for coming back!

Les Sadler
Pella, IA

Keith,

I watched SoundOFF from Sunday and all I can say is... WOW! You and Andy are off-the-charts GREAT together!!! I'd forgotten how good Andy is- his time in KC apparently only made him sharper and appreciate you, and being on SoundOFF, even more. He was better than his last month on the show.

Heather in West Des Moines

Wow. That's a nice one to end on and very appreciated. We'll continue to work hard to live up to all these nice thoughts, and even try to win over a few people behind the not so nice thoughts.

Feedback on Andy's return to SoundOFF

My original intent was to put all the e-mails we received in the past 24 hours regarding Andy's return to SoundOFF. The volume soon made this impractical, but here is a fair sampling:

We’re so glad that Andy is back. We hadn’t watched Sound Off for a long time (about 7 months and 1 week), but laughed and laughed on Sunday night. Thanks for having such a fun show.
JJ in Clive

Keith,
Just wanted to let you know that I love having Andy Fales back on WHO and Sound Off. I look forward to checking out your highlights every Monday via the internet. I am confused about Andy's role at WHO, his picture & bio are in the sports department, but they are also under the regular reporters too. What else can we expect from the Boy Wonder and is there a 3-day weather forecast coming from him soon?

Sincerely,
Mike in Minneapolis

First and foremost, huge props to the webmaster (hate that term - it sounds like someone's playing Dungeons and Dragons) for getting the clips on the site so quickly. I was pleasantly surprised to be able to watch first thing Monday morning. Second, and I'm stating the obvious, it's just a much better show. There's better chemistry, energy, personality, content, etc. Congratulations.
Ryan in Clive

The best present ever!-Andy is back. Yay! I thought I was dreaming when I tuned in Sun night and saw him. I don't even like sports but you two are like Lucy and Ethel, Laurel and Hardy, Clooney and Pitt. You are more entertaining than any sports event you cover. My husband even bought Andys CD-we are crazed fans of both of you!
I like how everyone has handled this-with humor and fun, and acceptance of the fact that Andy likes IOWA. What a treasure we have in him.
Go forward and laugh! We love it.
Jane

I am so happy that I stayed up for the entire show last night. It was great. You guys were awesome. I already got a call from a friend this a.m. telling me how excited he was to see the show last night. He loved it too.
Anne/Des Moines

I watched the show last night, and would like to get a transcript or copy of what Andy said about "finding happiness" during his "What's Bugging Andy". I thought it was very insightful! Can you please direct me on how to either download or send me a copy. Thank you, Kathy

I’m so glad to see Andy again! It was hard to watch “Sound Off” without him! I was disappointed though when I listened to his first “What’s Bugging Andy” since his return. Lame! He missed us – he was 3 hours away (get in a car and drive)! It wasn’t the same – duh; it was Kansas City! He missed Iowa? Hmmmm………I want to know the REAL reason he came back – I think it’s a girl! I want to know what’s really going on -

Signed,
The Neighborhood Watch, Pam in Urbandale

Keith,

I wanted to drop you a quick email and say that Sound Off was awesome last night – great job. The show will continue to be a “Must See TV” moment on Sunday nights. The Pick A Side segment was hilarious, right before you mentioned to Andy to stop looking at you I pointed out to my wife how Andy was continually looking over at you and was not focused on the camera. We were laughing before you even mentioned it, that was definitely one for the archives.

Brian in Des Moines

Wow. What's Bugging Andy is bigger than Chopper 13. Welcome back Andy. Free Willy

I missed the show last nite cuz i was hungover as crap, but my twin sister watched and said it was HILARIOUS!!!! i have it recorded so will watch it tonite. can't wait!!!! welcome back - long time Sound Off fan - since the days of Round Guy and Chris from Greenbay call'n in - whatever happened to that idiot? that was FUNNY stuff!!!!! welcome back ANDY!!!!!
Stephanie
Waukee

Hey fellas~
I received a text from a buddy last night stating I HAD to watch Soundoff that night. So I clicked it on and was more than pleasantly surprised to see Andy back. I had tried to keep watching after Andy left, but each week my interest waned until I finally just stopped watching... But Andy has the ability to keep the show interesting even when things are anything but in the local sports world. His contribution to Soundoff is immeasurable.
Welcome back Andy!

In Chizik We Trust
Waukee

Hey Andy,

I am not a sports fan by any means. Other than NASCAR Nextel Cup, I follow absolutely nothing in the sports realm. Before you left the show, I would watch SoundOFF simply to see your weekly ranting and raving on the "What's Bugging Andy?" segment. I haven't watched SoundOFF since you left because of the absence of the segment. Now that you are back, I will be watching the show on a regular basis again just for that gut busting laugh I get out of watching you get mad. Welcome back Andy!

Mike
Prairie City

Andy is back.....I can see the light. The show tonight is the best one I have seen in 7 months and a week. I could not agree more with Andy about the Pats. They deserve an * by their record this year. One final thing GO DOGS!!!
J
Des Moines

Andy! Great to have you back & in fabulous form! Love it!
You are a true treat to have back in the state – we missed you!
Kendra -West Des Moines

Just out of curiosity, did Andy's return to NewsCenter 13 have anything to do with the increase of the minimum wage here in Iowa? Grow up Andy . . . prove to the viewers you can be a man with some integrity, common sense, and a big heart. It is high time to get over the things that are bugging you.
Todd
Newton

My 88 year old mother, Dorothy John, of Lenox is a great fan of sound off and
was very sorry to see Andy leave. Andy, welcome back and if you could say hello
to my mother, it just might keep me from getting in trouble with her for this email.
Jeanne in Ames

Yeaaaaaaaaay! Andy's back! You just missed us sooooooo much and Iowa winters, too, right?! So, do we get to have a welcome back party, too?
And yes, we will miss Heather and look forward to seeing her in your place once in awhile! She proves that women can talk sports! Thank you, Heather!
An Andy fan in Urbandale


Thank you.
It is good to laugh again on Sunday nights.
Welcome Home Andy.
Rod & Chris

Bravo and welcome back Andy! That intro made me laugh, cry, caused for introspection and personal reflection. Welcome back!
TK West Des Moines

I just want to say that when Andy left and he said he is doing us a favor, he was right. We want to hear about sports not whats bugging the idiot.
Travis
down south

So I like most everybody else missed Andy over the last six months….but one question…can I get a refund on that “Best of” DVD that I bought thinking he would be gone for good.
Welcome Back Andy!
Dave in Bondurant

I just heard that Opie Fales is back! That's great, the show has been lacking a little something in his absents. All joking aside----WELCOME BACK OPIE.
AlwaysRightGuy
West Des Moines

Happy WHO-TV sports is back with Andy again. Can't wait for the bugging stories.
A friend in Marshalltown

Andy, you are like Cher. First, you have a 37 week farewell tour to promote a "Best of" compilation. Then, after a 7 month "retirement", you're right back to it. And, like an obsessed fan, I cheer your return.
Doug in Urbandale

Dear Andy,Some things have changed since you were last here! Iowa didn't go to a bowl game, the Cubs have become the best team in the N.L. Central and Drake is the best basketball team in the state of Iowa...YOU FOOL! Your leaving screwed up the entire space/time continu...uh...um...thingy...!!
Welcome back Andy!Shane - Marshalltown

I'm so glad to see Andy back! I can't think of any better way to start off the new year.
Welcome back!!!!

Dawn Armbrest

As you see, mostly positive, but no one as opinionated and original as Andy will ever win everybody over. I'm with the overwhelming majority: really happy Andy's back.

Thank you for all the feedback, here and elsewhere.
Keith

Scattershots

Did you see Iowa's Justin Johnson in the final two minutes against Indiana?! I haven't seen anything like that since Justice Thigpen shot down the #2 Oklahoma State Cowboys in 1992. (That was the game Fred Hoiberg said he could feel the Hilton floor shaking beneath his feet. ) Johnson couldn't quite get Iowa over the hump against #11 Indiana, but with six threes in the final two minutes, including two from Williamsburg, JJ did his part. (Apologies to my gambling addict buddy. I thought Indiana would win by more than 10. This is one more reason why I don't gamble. 1-800-BETS-OFF)...

I-State played Upstate? Be honest, have you ever heard of Upstate? I knew next to nothing until I called WOI for satellite coordinates to the game, Eric Murphy (no relation) was nice enough to give them to me, and educate me about Upstate. The Spartans used to play D3 and they're in their first season of D1. Eric also told me their former name, which I'm already shaky on, but I think it was Spartanburg. By any name, it was an easy win for the Cyclones...

How 'bout them Dogs! Drake looks for real. They already proved they can blow out ISU and win at Iowa, but knocking off Southern Illinois was the biggest hurdle yet. The Salukis started ownership of Drake back in 1999, and with 17 straight wins, it was a benchmark opportunity for Drake. Mission accomplished. The Dogs could be NCAA tourney bound for the first time since dirt. Two of our Drake alums, Erin Kiernan and Andy Fales, are already walking tall...

I've only watched one bowl from start to finish, the Cap One. I tuned in early to see if rumors of Tim Tebow playing without pads were true. Not true. Tebow was good, but Chad Henne was even better. Great game...

Is it just me or is Oklahoma overrated every year?

No sportscasts today (unless something big breaks). It's Caucus time and I'm field-producing for Dave Price at Hillary Clinton headquarters. Field-producing is a fancy way of saying "extra set of hands". Or as Dave calls it, "Keith, get me a Pepsi". The only downside of working the Caucus is I don't get to stand for someone. What a privilege we have in Iowa...

Belated congratulations to Andy Garman and John Meyer, both were deservedly promoted at KCCI after Heidi Soliday's exit...

Biggest movie disappointment of me in 2007? Walk Hard. I was so excited to see it, I went on New Year's Eve, but after a very funny, and crude, first half hour, it lost steam. I like funny stupid (see Talladega Nights or Dumb & Dumber), but Walk Hard is more often stupid than funny. I'm stunned at all the great reviews. It's just okay. Plus, three different times we're forced to view a man's junk. I'm talking full frontal nudity. C+ for the early laughs...

I'm re-watching season one of the West Wing on DVD. What a phenomenal show...

As you may have heard, Andy's returning to SoundOFF (and channel 13 news). He'll catch us up on the previous 7 months Sunday night live at 10:35 p.m. It should be fun for the many who love Andy and the few who love to hate Andy. I appreciate all the e-mails and calls from people excited Andy's coming back, and even the two who now vow to never watch again. We hope you'll change your mind...

Take care,
Keith

Scattershot Thoughts (including Andy's return)

I love Christmas. There's nothing better than Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with a house full of kids. I loved every minute...

Well, except for the several hours we played Electronic Monopoly. Some games can't be improved by technology. This is one. Running a credit card through an ATM at every transaction makes an already long game unbearable...

The kids didn't want to watch A Christmas Story on the TBS marathon, but got sucked in and loved it. Who doesn't "want an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle!"..

We all went skating at the new outdoor place in downtown Des Moines. It's a lot of fun, although they need to rethink the inside area. It's a chaotic mess with everyone trying to pay for skates, put them on, take them off, order concession, and warm up all in the same small building. Once we cleared the scrum we had a great time, and if Murphy fell down in front of you, I apologize...

2007 Iowa Sports Story of the Year: Zach Johnson wins the Masters. I agree with our on-line voters. If Shawn Johnson wins Olympic All-Around gold, and she will, I think that's the no doubt story of 2008. Could something happen that would top that?...

Shawn is featured in Sports Illustrated this week in, what else, a cornfield. Is this the only way outsiders see us? Great picture though...

Great move by the NFL Network to put the Patriots quest for perfection on channels most people can actually watch. And boy did we watch. One of the highest rated programs of the year. I can't take my eyes off the Patriots when they're on. I'm not a fan, but I'm fascinated. The Moss drop, followed by the Brady to Moss touchdown bomb was the most electrifying sequence of the season to me. Great theater. The Patriots' coaching staff was caught cheating this season, so the Pats aren't perfect, even if their record is...

Bowl game I'm most looking forward to? Florida vs. Michigan in the Cap One. Rumor is Tebow will play without pads...

Say what you want about Jose Canseco, but the guy was right about a lot. He also played a big part in getting baseball cleaned up...

The Bourne Ultimatum is a great action movie, and the rare third movie in a trilogy that lives up to its predecessors. I don't know how Matt Damon does it, but his face seems to change when he plays Jason Bourne. He's terrific...

Balls of Fury was as silly as I thought it would be. At least I waited for the rental. The title still appeals to my juvenile sense of humor...

The Heartbreak Kid starring Ben Stiller started with a lot of laugh out loud moments. However, the final hour was not funny and Stiller plays a guy impossible to root for. Rent this one only if you love the Farrelly Brothers (There's Something About Mary, Dumb and Dumber) even when they're off their game (Stuck on You). This movie is rated R for many reasons including rough sex (someone reading this just decided to rent it)...

The Des Moines Bucs are a bad hockey team this season, but 95KGGO Arena on game night is still top notch, affordable entertainment...

Jenny and I went to Las Vegas and happened to be on the same Allegiant Air flight as the entire Iowa State basketball team. The Cyclones aren't very good yet, but they are improving, and they have a first class guy running the program in Greg McDermott. He'll get it done...

How 'bout those Bulldogs?! It's just plain good for Des Moines to see this program showing some life after decades of bad basketball. I hope it continues...

And not to bury the lead, but yes, my old partner Andy Fales is coming back to SoundOFF. Andy succeeded in Kansas City, but made the wise and mature decision to follow his heart and return where he's happiest: Des Moines. Life is too short for regrets. Andy will co-host SoundOFF and tell you what's bugging him beginning January 6th. You'll also find his contributions all over our newscasts as he delivers his unique special assignments. Andy is a one-of-a-kind talent, and we're lucky to have him...

I also want to take this time to again thank Heather Burnside for doing such a good job under tough circumstances. Following Andy was not easy. Heather never tried to be anyone but herself. Heather's knowledge of sports was apparent, her sharp wit on display, and her enthusiasm for the opportunity contagious. Heather is also a fan of Andy. She steps aside with no hard feelings and has graciously agreed to make contributions to the show and fill in as guest host. Thank you, Heather...

Happy New Year.
Keith

Scattershot Thoughts

Dick Vitale out until February with a blown vocal cord? I'm sorry it happened, but it was only a matter of time. That man yells more than Al Pacino. Get well, Dick. You do a lot for college basketball...

I now understand why Elvis shot his television. Have you seen the Bud Light "Dude!" commercials? I saw the same ad 43 times during one NFL game. Dude...

The Iowa Hawkeyes need game-breakers, not law-breakers. Unfortunately, Dominique Douglas was both. He's out of second chances. I'm confident Kirk Ferentz strongly encouraged Douglas to transfer...

There's a cool new local Web site with potential, http://www.iasportsnews.com/ It allows you to "get all your Iowa sports news in one place". Great idea...

Green Bay Packer fans, cheer for Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo to take their relationship up a notch, or at the very least, stay together. I've seen that look of a man with his mind on other things. The thumb might hurt, but the heart aches...

The Mitchell Report forces all of us to be judge and jury. As more and more guys admit their guilt (always "one time" and "for an injury"), it looks worse for Roger Clemens. The timeline for his stats and alleged steroid use is damning. My verdict, with no proof, is guilty. I see Clemens and Bonds as the faces of the steroid era, but there is a far more detailed trail following Bonds (see "Game of Shadows")...

Dan Fogelberg died. That's sad. Fogelberg had that reputation for being overly sensitive and sentimental, but I always found myself singing along to those sappy songs, like the ridiculous "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". Who takes his mantel? I nominate James Taylor... (Update on 12/20: one of our smart readers points out it was Gordon Lightfoot who sang about a shipwreck, not Fogelberg. Remember Gordon and that porn 'stache? "Leader of the Band" will have to do for our Fogelberg example.)

Do you have a favorite Christmas song? Mine's "Little Drummer Boy" as sung by David Bowie and Bing Crosby. How did that ever work?! I also like Bob Seger's version. Band-Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas" never grows old either, thought it should since it's on every few minutes...

Favorite Christmas movie? I want to say "Christmas Story" or "It's a Wonderful Life", those seem like cool answers, and I do love those movies, but the truth is "Christmas Vacation". I laugh out loud every time.

Cousin Eddie: "He's(Snotz) got a little bit of Mississippi leg hound in em... He'll grab a hold of your leg and go to town. Word to the wise if he does grab a hold, just let him finish."
Clark W. Grizwald : "Thanks Eddie... I'll remember that."


Merry Christmas to you and yours,
Keith

Scattershot Thoughts

Les Miles saying LSU hasn't "lost in regulation" is true, but pointless. The Tigers lost twice in overtime; you could argue that's even worse...

The Atlanta Falcons probably quit on Bobby Petrino, but he looks far worse after definitely quitting on them, leaving a note, and sneaking off without facing his players like a man. Arkansas must not care what kind of man it hires...

Staying with the Falcons, what kind of knucklehead scores a touchdown and breaks out a "Free Mike Vick" T-shirt? Vick isn't falsely accused, wrongly jailed, or the victim of bad luck. He's in prison paying a price because of his own unthinkable crimes. Free Mike Vick?! Why? Vick's lost his job, reputation, and freedom---not to mention millions---so I think he's paying a sufficient price, but let's not make him the victim...

Michigan hired Rick Rodriguez, not Kirk Ferentz. There was never a minute I thought Ferentz would be anywhere but Iowa next season. However, I do think Michigan had legitimate interest...

Stud quarterback recruit John Wienke de-commits from Michigan and commits to Iowa? In the middle of all these "Michigan interested in Ferentz" rumors? You can't make this stuff up. It's good Iowa will open up the quarterback competition. Better play is a must next season, whether it's Jake or someone else...

As I was writing this, an e-mail just came in from Tim in Des Moines. Tim's a Hawkeye fan and in his letter, he was writing smack about Drake! That's the best sign yet the Bulldogs are for real. Usually everyone treats them like a favorite Uncle or lovable mascot. One win in Iowa City and the Dogs aren't so cute anymore...

Rick Brown's Courtside Seat in Tuesday's Des Moines Register is a must-read for me. Good stuff...

Can't believe the Dolphins blew their perfect season. And how 'bout those Ravens. Were it not for a timeout, the Ravens may have wrecked two seasons with the potential numbers 16 and 0...

Lucca Staiger must really appreciate all the love and support he's getting in Ames. He's staying, even after the NCAA's idiotic ruling that he loses a year of eligibility because someone else didn't follow the rules...

Props to the Cedar Rapids Gazette for this eye-opening nugget: The Cyclone women's basketball team is outdrawing the Hawkeye men...

If I see that Hyundai "Duh" commercial one more time, I'm going to punch the television...

Who you got in the Clash of the Choirs?....

Went to the Nova---home of the movie ticket, pop and popcorn for $6---to see Alvin and the Chipmunks. Apparently everyone in Des Moines had the same idea. We zipped across town and made it to Cobblestone, which was much less of a mob scene. Here's the shocker, I enjoyed Alvin. The kids loved it, no surprise, but Jenny and I liked it too. Big surprise. A- for kids. B- for adults...

Just saw Murderball on DVD. If you haven't rented this yet, give it a shot. It's a fascinating documentary on quad rugby. It's educational, but that makes it sound boring. It's not. You'll be on the edge of your seat at the Olympics...

Rescue Dawn is another winner on DVD. Christian Bale amazes, as usual, and the usually funny Steve Zahn proves he can play it straight. It's a true story of a POW escape during the Vietnam War...

This writer's strike is going to stink. Life and House were turning it up a notch, and Friday Night Lights found its feet after an early season stumble. At least we have American Gladiators...

Sorry 48 hours took 100. That Mitchell Report turned my world upside down. To answer a few questions on the report:

-Yes, I believe most, if not all, in the report cheated and/or used illegal performance enhancers.
-Especially Roger Clemens
-I'm surprised names were named based primarily on hearsay, but I still believe it
-I think it was the tip of the iceberg

Thank you for stopping by (San Diego)...
Keith

Mailbox

I receive hundreds of e-mails a week from viewers, and I love it. (Well, most of the time.) SoundOFF invites opinions, and I'm never without, including many about our station, newscasts, and me personally.

Here are a few recent ones I'll share:

After watching the first half of the show tonight all that you seemed to talk about was the good side of Iowa. No mention of Iowa State winning the Cy-Hawk Championship or how they beat Iowa. It seems like WHO stands for World Hawkeye Organization
Chad, Ankeny

Actually we did mention Iowa State dominating the Cy-Hawk series this year, but I wanted to show this one just because WHO, World Hawkeye Organization, always makes me laugh.

Here's another one:

You guys at whotv need to quit acting like you remotely care about the Cyclone nation--it's always been obviously that whotv is Black and Gold. Stop embarrassing us ISU grads with your silly Cyclone daily report on the 6 o'clock news that every time predicts ISU loosing. What kind of support is that? You guys need to just stick with predicting the Squakeyes loosing season. Keith you also need to take better acting classes, and just stick with ranting and rumbling about your true blood of Black and Gold. You make me sick whotv.

What? A much better writer sent this one last week:

Speaking of great people, how about Kirk Ferentz....Highest paid coach in the conference, 6-7, 6-6, 17 arrests, former player dealing cocaine in Iowa City, son lives in free housing, sexual assault about to explode = Michigan offer. Amazing, what's next, Lickliter to the Lakers? I haven't seen a guy control the media like this since Tim Floyd was writing for the Register. I know you think this is sour grapes, but why would I want Ferentz to leave...do you think there is a chance that Iowa, which is a much better job, would ever hire a coach that would lose 6 of 9 to ISU? They may even hire a great coach, like McCarney. By the way, McCarney's last two seasons = 13 losses and fired. Ferentz last two seasons, 13 losses and Michigan candidate. You can't make this stuff up. Brad Z./Ames

Wow. Brad brings it, and scores a few points.

Shane from Marshalltown has many random thoughts including:

Ok, let's figure this out so far. UNI beats Iowa State, Iowa beats UNI, Drake beats Iowa State and Iowa State beats Iowa...if the train leaves Chicago at 5:00am and travels west at 55mph and another train leaves Denver at 3:00am and travels east at....ah crap, what the hell was I talking about???

Did you guys see the eclipse this past week??? Oh wait, that was Barry Bonds getting out of his car to go into the court house...I also love the standard issue lawyer statement, "We are eager to prove "insert name here"'s innocence!" Translation: We cannot wait to plea bargain down!

Hard to believe, but it's been about 16 years since Tom Harkin was portrayed as a goofball for suggesting that if everyone switched to energy efficient lightbulbs, we'd all be better off in the long run, while running for the Democratic presidential nomination...yeah, what a goofball...

At what point did "let millions of illegal immigrants in and millions of jobs out" become a good idea for our country??? Just wondering...

When NBC got "Football Night In America" I thought "COOL!!" But now we're in our 2nd season of SoundOFF starting at 11:15 and lasting 20 minutes and it's just not cool anymore...Thanks NBC!!!

I'd like to thank Iowa and Iowa State's football and basketball teams for rekindling everyone's love of college wrestling...

To everyone who complains about not having the NFL Network, if you've ever heard Bryant Gumbel do a game, you'd realize you're not missing much...

Ryan in Clive wrote this after Hawkeye basketball player Dan Bohall was arrested for public intox:

While I always take pleasure in Hawkeye arrests, you can't call the cops on a guy who's passed out in the bathroom. You write on him, TP him, etc. but you don't call the cops. That's just lame.

Never a dull day. Keep them coming: soundoff@whotv.com

I'll be back with some scatterthoughts in the next 48 hours.

Thanks.
Keith

Scattershot thoughts:

-Bad news for Iowa State football: Bo Pelini can't be worse than Bill Callahan. You really have to work at being mediocre with all the advantages that program has in Lincoln.

-I really like what I see from UNI's Mark Farley. He choked up when talking about the fan support, and feeling like he let those fans down. He didn't. UNI gave us something to feel good about this football season.

-I think Michigan had real interest in Kirk Ferentz, but we'll never know what really happened. One thing is certain: people in other places appreciate what Ferentz has done at Iowa more than some people who live right here. It's not an easy place to win big.

-Among the big-name coaches who went 6-6 this year: Spurrier, Saban, Ferentz. It happens.

-Keeping Cael Sanderson at Iowa State is Jamie Pollard's best proven move to date. It's remarkable what Cael's done already. A win at #1 Minnesota? He's for real, and so are the Cyclones.

-It's going to be a long season for Todd Lickliter. He can coach, and I think he's a good man, but he just flat out doesn't have much to work with. In the end, it's mostly about talent. It's no coincidence the best basketball team in our state the past twenty years had 3 future NBA players. (2000 Iowa State Cyclones, and yes, I'm counting the author, Paul Shirley.)

-I can't belive Central played playoff football in the snow, ice, and sleet. Props to the fans who sat in the stands for that one. It had to be miserable. The outcome didn't help. Great season for the Dutch, who play for love of the game.

-The Heisman Trophy should go to the nation's outstanding college football player. Not the offensive MVP on the best team (see Jason White), or the guy with the eye-popping stats (see Andre Ware). It frustrates me no defensive player has any chance. I voted for Tim Tebow this season. I don't think he'll be the best pro, but I do think he was the best college football player this year. I have Darren McFadden a close second.

-Is the NFL MVP Tom Brady, Brett Favre, or maybe Randy Moss? Moss is the main reason Brady is playing video game football. I'd still vote for Tom. Without a great quarterback, Moss disappears.

-I'm not used to the Des Moines Register's new Web site yet. I miss the old one.

-Have you been to this place "Pump it Up"? It's like kids' paradise. The energy in that place could power the cars of an entire NBA team. Brilliant idea, well run and fun, so of course it work$.

-Saw "Enchanted". Loved most of it, though the ridiculous dragon bit at the end nearly ruined it for me. Still, I'll give it a B. Amy Adams is brilliant, and Dr. McDreamy does a nice job, though Patrick Dempsey careered out in Can't Buy Me Love. Love that silly movie.

-Did I just see Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer in a commercial? Is nothing sacred?

Stay warm,
Keith

Most jobs are harder than they look. (Even this one.) I was reminded of that as my friend Chris did some carpentry around the house. Chris knocked down a wall and turned two tiny closets into one large walk-in. He made it look easy. I'm sure to Chris, it is, but I'm the guy who tries to assemble an entertainment center, and doesn't realize until the end that I have a board upside down and backwards. Point being, when people are good at what they do, they make it look effortless, even though it's not.

With this in mind, I tried to listen with an open mind as Wayne Morgan provided color commentary for the Big Ten Network (an Iowa game, no less). Morgan never said much of anything interesting in his years of news conferences and coaches shows at Iowa State, but you never know. Dan Marino: boring interview as a player, good commentator. Joe Montana: interesting player, dull commentator.

Morgan fell into the trap many analysts do, especially beginners, pointing out the obvious. (Yes, we know, a team down ten with a minute to go needs to score.) I say this with full knowledge that what John Walters and Gary Dolphin do is harder than most people realize. I worked play-by-play a little here at channel 13, and a lot at my former station. I wanted to be good, studied hard, and on a good night I was okay, but I knew I'd never excel. I don't have the right skills. So I'm always surprised how many people think it's easy. It's not, and it's nothing like doing it in your driveway.

I'll give Morgan another chance, but you'll learn much more listening to Todd Lickliter or Greg McDermott's post-game shows. These guys know basketball. Now if they could just get better players...

Some scattershots:

-"Frank TV" was a huge letdown. The guy can do spot-on impressions, but the show is not funny.

-I can't get enough of watching the Patriots. That's the best NFL team I've ever seen.

-Bill Belichick doesn't care that you think he's a jerk. In fact, he just tried to score again.

-Craig Brackins is fun to watch. If he learns to rebound and play defense, he's a potential All-American.

-It's fun watching the Hawkeye basketball team play like Norman Dale's Hoosiers. There's not much Big Ten talent on that team, but they'll win some games on smarts and effort.

-Nick Saban not only lies, he's insensitive. There's no excuse for comparing Alabama's embarrassing loss to what America went through on 9-11. None.

-Next time a Cyclone football player makes the cover of Sports Illustrated, Gene Chizik hopes it's not being burned by a Kansas Jayhawk. Nice picture though, and nice for KU--- a program "I-State" should emulate.

-Can you believe the snow already hit us hard?! It did get me out of Disney's High School Musical on Ice though.

-Speaking of Disney, they're making the boats bigger on the Small World ride because we're getting so fat, the boats are scraping bottom. Unbelievable. (Pointless note: I worked in the restaurant above Small World in high school. Yes, the song drove us crazy.)

-Is there a more foolish myth than the media driving Lute Olson out of Iowa? Lute left for warmer weather and a better shot at winning a national championship, among other reasons. There is no gentler media anywhere than Iowa.

-Congrats Oak Leafs.

-Don Cheadle is amazing in the movie Talk to Me. It's rated R for many reasons, but if you're looking for a mostly true story about the guy who changed, if not started, talk radio, this movie is worth your time.

-Happy Thanksgiving!

Keith

What we need for record feedback is a good Andy Fales rumor...

Good gosh. I guess what we need for record feedback is a good Andy Fales rumor. Wow. Thank you for all the input, questions, and conspiracy theories. I enjoyed them all, some more than others.

I'm glad to tell you what I think, or what I know, but nothing more. In this case, I think Andy wants to work at channel 13 again. I know my boss wants Andy here, as do I.

A local talk radio host urged Shawn Terrell and Chris Hassel to get their resumes in order, because one of them is sure to be fired if/when Andy returns, but that simply is not true. Shawn and Chris aren't going anywhere regardless---they're both doing a great job---and Heather Burnside will continue to be a part of the channel 13 sports team, as well as SoundOFF.

As for Heidi Soliday, I wish her well. Sometimes people mistakenly think we must be enemies, but Heidi has always been nice to me, and we shared many laughs and late nights covering teams on the road over the years. I also remember being really sick with a cold in Dallas and having Heidi bring me medicine. Best wishes to Heidi. Enjoy not working nights.

I remember the '72 Dolphins. I loved that team. But these guys are getting old with their yearly celebration of the final undefeated team falling. Now Don Shula wants an asterisk if the Patriots run the table?! The Patriots got caught cheating, but it has nothing to do with the way they're destroying teams. The Patriots could show teams their game plan and still win by 20. Shula is now backpeddling and doing a damage control. He should. (By the way, I think the Pats go 19-0).

I'm glad the Iowa Barnstormers are back. I'm not sure there's enough money to go around in Des Moines for the Stormers, Stars, Energy, Bucs, and all the college and high school teams, but I hope so. I love entertainment options. I used to lenjoy taking the kids to Barnstormer games. It's perfect for the short-attention span generation. It's like a video game come to life.

I do hope head coach John Gregory slipped when he said how much he loved Des Moinez (pronounce the "s"). Gregory was here for the glory years, so he knows better. He's not like those flight attendants: "We're now making our initial descent into Dess Moinez. We should be on the ground in 15 minutes."

Good move by the Barnstormers hanging on to the basic logo and look. It's classic. If arena football can be "classic".

Iowa Stars and Barnstormers look to Iowa State for a lesson in how to sell tickets. Besides shrewd marketing---which is no small factor---Jamie Pollard has the good sense to price season tickets so low, families have trouble not buying. The result: record total for football followed by a new record for men's basketball. $99 for season tickets? To quote Sean Connery in the Untouchables: "Here endeth the lesson."

Finally saw a few movies. Bee Movie is fun, and great for kids. For adults, it's nice to hear Jerry Seindfeld's voice again. This is no classic like Shrek or Toy Story, but Bee Movie earns a grade of, what else, B.

Michael Clayton is an old fashioned drama like they used to make in the 70's. It takes its time, but it all pays off. George Clooney is terrific. The man is rich, good looking, and talented. I hate him. B+

Jenny and I went to see American Gangster Saturday night. We had to sit in the front row at the Century. Normally I know better, since I've had neck surgery, but I really wanted to see this. Even though I was in pain, and the actors looked blurry and distorted from my vantage point, it's a terrific movie. Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe in the same movie? You can't beat that. (note: do you know their first on screen teaming? Virtuosity. Not good.) A-

A sad farewell to the Sierra theaters in West Des Moines. I'll miss this place. My son, Cade, saw his first movie there at age 1 week (with Pat and Sally Dix). It was Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Cade never made a peep; he crouched and hid. I was proud right away. Another time, my mother and I went and they warned us the heat wasn't working, we put on gloves and hats, bought hot cocoa and watched In America. It's a good memory. The Sierra will be missed.

Great job by Steve Loney at Drake. He stepped in at the last minute, and did a good job coaching the Bulldogs. He's not interested in more than one year---the man has coached in the NFL---and he'll be missed.

I've been watching Entourage on DVD. Man, is it funny. Jeremy Piven is priceless. Didn't he go to Drake?

Ed Wilson can flat out tailgate.

Scattershot thoughts

>With A-Rod, it's always about the money, but how many tropical islands does one man need?

>Heather Burnside was a hilarious Britney Spears for Halloween. If Britney hadn't already checked into rehab, watching SoundOFF might do it.

>I promise no more tank tops. First John Basedow, now K-Fed. How do I end up looking this ridiculous each year? (Don't answer)

>John Bachman's promo as me as John Bachman was funny. He's a good sport. If that makes sense, you saw it. If it doesn't, you didn't.

>I'm never comfortable at costume parties or class reunions. Both make me want to stay home, though I usually have a good time if I'll just overcome my insecurities.

>I'll admit, I beat this dead horse too much, but I can't believe how ugly Iowa State's road football uniforms are. Thank goodness they're changing next year.

>The Cyclones were competitive in back-to-back weeks against top 15 teams. When's the last time that's happened? It's the most hopeful sign of the Chizik Era. Don't sell your coins yet.

>Anyone hear any rumors about Andy Fales?

>Pella Christian's Jerry Staton is not only a heck of a football coach, he's a really thoughtful person. He recently wrote a nice letter letting us off the hook for forgetting his name (on-air) and thanking us for covering his Eagles. That's class.

>Kirk Ferentz and staff outcoached Michigan State something fierce. That game looked over at halftime. The Hawks adjusted, the Spartans didn't. Ferentz critics should think about what this man has done in nine seasons. It's harder in Iowa City than you realize.

>How foolish is Dominique Douglas? Time to give this guy the boot. I'm willing to forgive a guy who steals a few DVDs, but not when he's already suspended for allegedly using a stolen credit card.

>The NCAA ruling that takes away a year of eligibility from Lucca Staiger is stupid, unfair, and hypocritical. Punish Staiger because others did something wrong? Idiotic.

>Are you as tired of Kobe Bryant's whining as I am?

>KXNO's coverage of high school football is terrific.

>Smart move by the Iowa Energy signing Jeff Horner. In fact, the Energy has made one shrewd move after another. I'm still not sure NBDL will work here, but having local owners who "get it" sure makes a difference.

>Shawn Terrell is one of the best local sports reporters in the country. We're lucky to have him.

>Chris Hassel always does or says something to make me laugh everytime I see him. He's also a bigtime talent. And nuts.

>I still haven't finished that John Grisham book, Playing for Pizza. I think I read The Firm in one night.

>Love him, hate him, Kid Rock's new album is a blast.

>Can we just call Sunday's game between the Patriots and Colts the Super Bowl? I know the Colts love being overlooked, but I'll still take the Pats on the road.

>If you know anyone from Boston, and I know many people, you know how superior to us they already feel. It's getting worse: Red Sox, Patriots, BC, Celtics hype. Please make it stop.

>Dan Winters' story on local residents "redshirting" their small children was solid journalism and slightly disturbing.

>Great decision by KXNO's Jon Miller to put sports aside and report continuously on the chemical plant fire. Keeping people safe and informed ranks somewhere ahead of Ken O'Keefe's play-calling skills.

>Shows on my TiVo: House, Life, Chuck, Grey's Anatomy, The Office, 30 Rock, Friday Night Lights, Saturday Night Live, Scrubs, Heroes, The Channel 13 News at 6 & 10, SoundOFF (just being honest), and E60 (the new ESPN Real Sports knockoff). Looking at that list, there is no doubt I'm showing NBC a lot of loyalty, but it's hard to be objective.

>Tuesdays with Morrie at the Des Moines Playhouse is solid, but nothing beats reading the book. It's the kind of story---if you buy this sort of thing, and I do---that requires reflection at your own pace.

>Ankeny at Southeast Polk again? Are you kidding me? This is our Colts-Patriots. I think this Monday is the night Ankeny finally breaks through Polk's kryptonite.

>I haven't watched an NBA regular season game from start to finish since Jordan retired. If I had to pick one team to end that drought, it would be the Suns.

>I'm not sure I'm even making sense. My son Colin has had a high temperature and the stomach flu for the past four days. I've slept less than Thomas Edison.

Does anybody believe Gene Chizik and the Cyclones didn't walk away from the Oklahoma game with a "moral victory"? Of course they did. When you were thumped by 53 the week before, there's nothing too wrong with a positive loss. I was surprised and impressed..

Can you believe Michigan State will likely start two players who were just arrested and charged with felony robbery? Mark Dantonio should be ashamed of himself. Of course, he plays the "let the legal process run its course" card, but this all about winning. Playing college football isn't a right, it's a privilege. Say what you will about all Iowa's arrests, and I've said plenty, but at least Kirk Ferentz suspends or boots the players...

I've got whiplash from keeping up with Hawkeye fans. Last week, Iowa might not win another game, and Kirk Ferentz needed firing; this week, the Hawks could win out, go to a good bowl, and tee up a championship season next year.

Just goes to show what we already know: winning cures everything.

What can I say about Iowa State? Seriously, what can I say? I felt like I time-traveled to 1994. A good, but not great, Texas team exposed the Cyclones as slow, nonathletic, and uninspired. I know there's a talent gap---there always is and always will be---but that still doesn't completely explain what happened Saturday. Mack Brown did everything he could to keep the score down, short of telling his third string players to run plays in the wrong direction.

Many coaches have started successful careers with miserable first seasons so it's far too early to give up on Gene Chizik, but I sure thought Iowa State would look better than this. The Cyclones seem to be regressing instead of progressing.

We left after the third quarter and got in a traffic jam! That's when you know it's bad. Some of those fans paid $60 for tickets. They deserve refunds.

The UNI Panthers are the #1 ranked team in the country. It's FCS (div. IAA), but that's still really cool...

What happened to the Bulldogs at San Diego? I didn't think Drake would take a beating like that with Steve Loney on the sideline, not against another non-scholarship team.

Good news... The Reds hired Dusty Baker. That means Dusty's leaving the broadcast booth! Managers who know they're going back to work, like Baker, never say anything interesting. Sample insight, "The team with the better pitching has a good chance of winning this series." Duh, really?

Numbers for The Final Season are out, and they're not good. They're worse than the reviews, which weren't good either. In fact, so few people paid to see the movie nationwide, there's a chance it's already in a DVD bargain bin by the time you read this. Still, I loved it. Yes, it's corny, cliched, and predictable, but I can't imagine Iowans won't enjoy this movie. It's an incredible story, and for the most part, the filmmakers didn't embellish too much. There's a couple of plots that didn't happen (see Tom Arnold storyline), including the obligatory romance (see Sean Astin's flirting), but enough is real to inspire your sense of state pride, not to mention your love of baseball (if you love baseball, and how can you not?).

I was also surprised The Final Season is a scathing indictment of school consolidation. It hammers home its point that folding smaller schools into bigger ones takes opportunities away from kids and economic stability away from small towns.

I give the movie a B. I think the biggest reason for all the negative publicity is that sports movies like this all follow the same formula, which is why there's a spoof out Friday called Comebacks.

Talk about formula... I also saw Disney's Game Plan starring The Rock. Not a lot of surprises in this movie, but it's still entertaining, especially if you have a young daughter, which I do not. I went with a young son, and he loved it because there's lots of football and a bulldog in a tutu. Whatever "it" is, The Rock's got it. He's a star. B for Game Plan.

One more B. This one to The Kingdom. It's a history lesson of America's involvement in Saudi Arabia (i.e. oil is worth a lot of money). It turns into an action movie with a lot of gun fights and solid acting by Jennifer Garner, Jamie Foxx (not his real name), the underrated Chris Cooper and a breakout performance by Jason Bateman. I liked it, but less than expected.

Are you watching Friday Night Lights yet? I hope so. Yes, there's been one shocking turn this season that doesn't seem true to the show's emphasis on reality, but it's still great, and no family on TV seems more "real" than the Taylors. Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton amaze.

My favorite new show is Life. It's a little odd, like me, and I'm hooked. Damian Lewis is the man. (If you haven't seen the entire Band of Brothers series, make it a priority to start renting the DVDs immediately. You'll thank me.)

Just read Jason Stark's The Stark Truth: The Most Overrated and Underrated Players in Baseball History. This book is sure to fire people up, which is the intent. Most overrated right-handed pitcher of all time? Nolan Ryan. Most underrated? Bob Feller. Discuss.

Also read Tim Kurkjian's Is This a Great Game, or What? Kurkjian's love of baseball comes through on every page, and he has some good stories. I'm sure he doesn't reveal all, since he's still working the ESPN beat every day, but baseball fans will find something to love here.

Still reading John Grisham's Playing for Pizza. Obviously it's not a page-turner.

Latest health book across my desk: Impress the World with Your Body in Seven Days by Dr. David Madow. Madow comes across as a nice guy who wants to help people have a better life. The book doesn't break ground, but it's a user-friendly guide to taking one step a day toward a better, healthier life (e.g. stretch, walk, eat right, strength train, drink water, etc.). If you're overwhelmed and looking for a place to start, Madow's advice is solid, and he obviously practices what he preaches, including walking an hour a day. (?!) (I'm happy when I squeeze in 30 minutes). (10/16 update: somehow Madow read this. He invites you to visit www.davidmadow.com and he'll answer questions personally.)

In my CD player right now: Bruce Springsteen's Magic (love), Kanye West's Graduation (like album, love "Stronger"), Maroon 5's It Won't Be Soon Before Long (dumb title, but the kids and I all like it), Best of Van Halen (never liked this when it was popular, but I'm warming up to it), My Generation: The Very Best of the Who, and U2 18 The singles. Classic.

The Red Sox and Indians series is terrific, but the pace is so slow. You can watch Dances with Wolves in the time it takes them to play 9 innings. I went to a lot of Red Sox games as a kid, but I'm pulling for Indianola's Casey Blake too.

Be sure to vote for our Halloween costumes on SoundOFF. I don't have to be John Basedow this year, so I'm looking forward to whoever wins (as long as it's not Bachman. I don't want to make him mad). I think Heather hopes she doesn't have to be Britney Spears, which is why I voted for... "Britney Spears".

No matter how many e-mails I open, I still can't believe it when I see Hawkeye fans calling for Kirk Ferentz fired.

This is the same Ferentz many of those same fans panicked about losing just three years ago. It's gone from the former Iowa AD (Bowlsbly) opening up the bank vault to keep Kirk, to the current one (Barta) giving Ferentz a vote of confidence.

I understand both sides. Ferentz defenders---and I'm one---realize just how hard it is to win at Iowa. You are in a low population state fighting another D1 school for Iowa recruits and trying to steal an occasional guy from the surrounding states, all of which have their own Big Ten or Big 12 schools. Furthermore, Iowa needs the overlooked "diamonds in the rough" (e.g. Bob Sanders) and overlooked walk-ons with chips on their shoulders (e.g. Dallas Clark). Sometimes you catch lightning in a bottle where everything comes together, including good fortune, and sometimes it all goes the other way. Welcome to 2007.

Having said that, or more accurately, written it, I do understand fans complaining. It has gotten very expensive to follow the Iowa Hawkeyes. In fact, some families are priced out as donation levels and tickets costs continue to escalate out of control. Those fans see a man making more money in one week then they'll make in a year. They expect results, not bad football. You're supposed to get what you pay for. (Although Ferentz makes millions because of what he's already done, including paving a gold road for Kinnick renovation.)

My unsolicited advice: more patience. Ferentz led Iowa to four January bowl games, three top ten finishes, and two co-Big Ten titles. That's harder than most realize at Iowa, and Hawkeye fans are definitely guilty of often expecting too much. That's not the case this season---Iowa shouldn't be this bad---but Kirk deserves time to figure it out and make changes. A few less injuries and suspensions might help too.

The Hawkeye meltdown has been great for Iowa State's Gene Chizik. It's overshadowed the fact, to date, the Cyclones are having a dud of a season in Chizik's first year. Educated football fans didn't expect a bowl game, but they did expect a better organized and executed effort than Iowa State has shown in all but a few quarters. I'll say it again, Chizik needs more time and talent, but he also may need to adjust his game plan for the kind of players he's going to have at Iowa State. You still go after the 4 and 5 star guys, but the reality is, Iowa State isn't Texas or Auburn, and 99 times out of 100, those blue chippers are going elsewhere---probably to a team Iowa State or Iowa plays on Saturdays.

Chizik's smarter than me, but I still believe you must run an offense and defense that's imaginative and daring---one that's hard to prepare for and gives ISU a puncher's chance. You'll probably still lose to Texas and Oklahoma 8 out of 10 times, but that's better than 10 out of 10, and once in awhile, the whole season could break just right. A realist doesn't expect the Cyclones to be a perennial power, but a conference championship, or at least a division title, once a decade isn't asking too much.

Look at all the talent Iowa had when the Hawks went 8-0 in 2002. A lot of those guys are playing on Sundays now. For whatever reason, Iowa has dropped way off that level, and now is in a situation similar to Iowa State's: not talented enough to beat bigger, better, faster teams with old fashioned football.

Thank God for UNI.

Take care.
Keith

Warning: No sports ahead. I'm taking one blog off, or trying to, after days of nothing but negative energy coming through the inbox. You can guess why..

Are you watching any of NBC's new shows? I always root for them; we need a few more hits.

Here's my take so far:

Journeyman: Compelling lead actor, well made, but I just have trouble watching anyone not named Marty McFly go back and forth in time (though if you know a woman who loves sentimental, romantic stories, you can't go wrong with Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour in Somewhere in Time). I'll give Journeyman another go, but I'm not sure I'll last...

Life: After the incomparable Band of Brothers, I'd watch Damian Lewis in a Ramen noodles commercial. This is a quirky show, and needs a better title, but I'm all in for Life...

Bionic Woman: good reviews, big hit, so I wanted to like it, but just couldn't get into it. As a kid, I watched the Bionics in wide-eyed amazement, but now I just roll my eyes. I miss Lindsay Wagner and Lee Majors...

Chuck: If you can suspend all disbelief, this is a very entertaining show. Anytime you have a guy managing the "Nerd Herd" at "Buy More", and he suddenly downloads all the government's top secrets into his brain, you're in for a wild ride. It's better than it sounds...

That's it. Only four new shows. I like that strategy better than throwing a bunch of crap at the wall to see what sticks, which is what NBC used to do. Oh yeah, Friday Night Lights and 30 Rock start this week. If you're one of the "dozens and dozens" of people already watching, thank you. If not, get on board. These shows make me believe in the power of television to both inspire and make us laugh...

I'm currently reading John Grisham's Playing for Pizza. It's no Firm, but so far I like it. It's the story of an NFL football player so humiliated by his post-season choke-job, he moves to Parma and plays for an Italian team with a bunch of guys who live up to the title of the book. Anytime someone relearns love of the game, I'm a sucker. It's one reason Jerry Maguire is so high on my movie list...

Interesting health book came my way recently titled "Eat Stop Eat". The author is a respected nutritionist who says losing weight is easy, and you don't have to give up any of your favorite foods. His answer: fasting one day a week. He makes a compelling argument with many documented health benefits, but it's not for me. I believe it would work, but I need my daily feedings every day. If you're interested, there's an online version at http://www.eatstopeat.com/

Just picked up Bruce Springsteen's Magic. I walked into the store during an Ed Wilson verified downpour, but nothing was stopping me on release day. Reviews are beyond good. USA Today gives Magic 4 stars on a 4 star scale, Rolling Stone 5 out of 5, Entertainment Weekly grades it an A and uses the M-word: Masterpiece. I've only played it once, but it took me back to high school. It's classic Springsteen along with a fully engaged E Street Band...

Just watched The Insider again. What a phenomenal, yet somehow mostly overlooked movie. Russell Crowe and Al Pacino couldn't be better. This belongs along side All The President's Men...

I bought We Are Marshall on DVD. I liked it even more on second viewing. My father finds Matthew McConaughey really annoying, but even dad liked him in this. I'll bet Bobby Bowden loves this movie, and after seeing it, you'll love Bowden---or at least respect him...

My father and I went to see In the Valley of Elah at the theater. Riveting. You bible readers know the title comes from where David battled Goliath. This is not an action movie, it's more like a murder mystery and commentary on the mental and moral price some soldiers pay for going to war in Iraq. Tommy Lee Jones is the best he's ever been, and that's saying something (see: Fugitive or Lonesome Dove). Charlize Theron is unrecognizable, but proves again the Oscar was no fluke. The gal can act. A-

Did you make it to the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus this year? You know how they claimed it was all new and improved? They were right. Big upgrade. Kids loved it, especially those nutbars in the motorcycle sphere...

Another hit with the kids: Charlotte's Web at the Des Moines Playhouse. If you have a kid 10 & under, you can't go wrong. Plus, if your kids are like mine, they could use a few minutes away from the computer and video games, to see something that's actually live!...

If there's a nicer guy working in the Major Leagues than Tim McClelland, I haven't met him... (oops, that was kind of sports. I better stop now. I can't contain myself.)

Thanks for reading.
Keith