-Vivian Stringer was dropping F-bombs? I didn't see that, or hear it, but I have heard plenty of coaches turn court-side seats into an R rating. Larry Eustachy and Johnny Orr could both make Chris Rock blush.
How do you feel about profanity? I used to swear more than I do these days. I'll still do it for comic effect on occasion, which some would say is wrong. I'd say check out Steve Martin at the rental car counter in Planes, Trains & Automobiles or the wedding singer in Old School. Most other times I remember some advice a coach gave me once, "find a more intelligent way to communicate". That's often too much to ask, but avoiding George Carlin's seven words you can never say on TV, keeps me from accidentally saying one of them on TV, not to mention in front of the kids. Ask any parent, we all have stories of an overheard word our kid couldn't stop saying. Funny, until he blurts it out at daycare or church.
The silliest thing I say is "son of a biscuit". I picked that one up from Gary Thompson. Gary is so square, he never swears. He's everybody's all-American.
-For those of you who miss SoundOff, Shane's right, you can listen to the audio, or if you just want to see some of the video clips, including What's Bugging Andy, they're almost always online the next day in the video player on the whotv.com sports page.
-Kirk Ferentz had to do something. He did a good job of finally acknowledging the big, embarrassing elephant in the room: 14 or so arrested Hawkeyes in one year. Maybe a life coach will help, and it can't hurt.
-Are there fans anywhere coming off a three win season more optimistic than Cyclone fans? It's still too soon to schedule vacation time in late December anytime soon, but Iowa State's relatively strong finish does look promising.
-How did things work out for Tyler Smith?
-Before Celebrity Apprentice, the only thing I knew about Trace Adkins was that he sang Honky Tonk Badonkadonk. This guy is sharp. He doesn't say much, but when he does, it matters. I hope he wins. (Ratings tell me I just lost 80% of you.)
-Can't wait for the Iowa Speedway to open again. We had a blast out there last year.
-Welcome back Barnstormers. If you have kids who enjoy video games, chances are good they won't be bored.
-I'm going to my first Stars game of the season Friday night. I usually see a few, but haven't made it this year. I'm anxious to see if the atmosphere has improved. I know the hockey is good.
-Can't accuse the Iowa Energy of stocking the roster with unknowns. Haluska, Horner, Thomas, Stinson... we know these guys. It's just hard to become emotionally invested in the NBDL, but the franchise is doing all it can to make us care.
-32 degrees and snowing on March 27th?! I'm almost ready to start swearing more.
-If you read this before Friday night's at 10 p.m. newscast (3/28), and you have pride in the role wrestling plays in our state, don't miss Brad Argo's special report . It's terrific. (The story should also end up in the video player at whotv.com at some point.)
-Finally, if you get a chance, check out this week's Cityview. Andy brought it to my attention. Remember the time of year and enjoy: http://www.dmcityview.com/ The cover story is on the new pro basketball team, The Des Moines Dribblers.
-Hope to see you Sunday night. Andy and I will discuss what makes us Iowans.
Keith
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
Some scattershot thoughts:
-Classy move by Klayton Korver, showing up for SoundOFF, even after that heartbreak. He said the outpouring of support from viewers lifted his spirits. I'm sure Adam Emmenecker did too when he called into protest his spot-on look alike, fitness "celebrity" John Basedow. Emmenecker says Korver's the one who cares about his hair. Come to think of it, Klayton does have that High School Musical 'do.
-I don't think you have to worry about Keno going anywhere yet.
-Worst part about working this time of year? People stopping by the office to tell you in painstaking detail how their bracket's doing. I know I complain about this every year, but I can't help it. It's getting worse. Know this: no one cares about your bracket but you. Trust me. (Until you win. Then you can brag.)
-The NCAA women's tournament will be back in Des Moines soon. Iowa State and the city did a great job of hosting, and the crowds were among the largest in the nation (thanks to ISU playing). Now about that parking...
-I've never worked with a team having a big season that was more accommodating than Drake. Mike Mahon and company put on a clinic how to maximize coverage and positive feedback. Of course, it helped that Drake had a terrific group of student-athletes to show off.
-I reluctantly started reading The Kite Runner because Andy gave it to me for my birthday, and that's what friends do. You have to read the book, or watch the movie, or wear the tie --- but I owe Andy an extra "thank you". I was dragged out of my comfort zone (I don't read much on war-torn Afghanistan), and, to my surprise, the book is fantastic. I heard Jon Miller (I think it was Jon) say on the radio a few months back that the movie is good too. Thanks Andy (and Kahala).
-I'm into John Adams on HBO. I haven't read the book, which I understand is great, but I may after watching the mini-series. My trip to Washington D.C. has me feeling the history. I can't believe the guy from Sideways and The Negotiator can play a President, but Paul Giamatti is pulling it off.
-The Good Shepherd is a well made, cold movie. I suppose that's by design since Matt Damon plays a detached CIA agent, but it's not very entertaining.
-Did I mention the best part about watching the NCAA Tournament? HDTV.
-Congrats to Kyle Okposo for his first career NHL goal. Okposo and the Des Moines Bucs were the greatest show on ice two years ago. It was free donuts most every night.
-Iowa State played its heart out against Rutgers. Bill Fennelly told us on SoundOFF, his Cyclones would have to play a near perfect game, and get help from Rutgers, to win --- and it nearly happened. Well, nearly may be pushing it. They made a game of it though.
-If the state of Iowa seemed even classier over the weekend it's because Vivian Stringer returned. Don Imus messed with the wrong lady.
-Do you get the feeling the Hawkeye wrestling program is about to make another run of national championships? There's no doubt Tom Brands brought back the swagger. Iowa used to win most matches just by showing up. The Hawks aren't there yet, but they looked old school in St. Louis. Cael and company will have something to say about Iowa dominance, and I can't wait to watch.
-One final note. In the month of February, more people watched SoundOFF than ever before. This kind of growth doesn't usually happen in year 11, and trite as it sounds, we couldn't do it without you. I know most of you who read this support the show, and I sincerely appreciate it.
Though it's nice to be #1 again, that's not why we do the show, and it's not our goal. We want to have fun, entertain, and once in a while, make you think. As long as we're doing that, we'll still feel successful even if we finish behind an infomercial for Gold Bond powder and all its magical, soothing powers. Scratch that---bad choice of words---check that, we probably do need to beat infomercials to stay on the air.
I'd be remiss if I didn't note that I'm well aware the SoundOFF surge in viewers is due, in large part, to the triumphant return of one, Andy Fales. A lot of people didn't fully appreciate Andy's talents until he was gone, and now he's back, a second chance for both sides. (The improbable Drake story didn't hurt either.) Thank you all.
-Oh yeah, speaking of thank yous. I owe several to the people I work with in this sports office. My good friend Ryan and his wife, Heather, gave Jenny and me front row seats to see Bruce Springsteen in Minneapolis. We received the present back in November after Ryan heard Bruce was coming March 16th, Selection Sunday.
Ryan correctly predicted that there was no way I'd have to worry about Iowa, Iowa State or UNI going to the NCAA tournament, so plans were put in place. He never considered Drake. Why would he. So long story short (too late!), I decided I need to stay and work. Andy, Shawn, Chris, and Heather came to me and said I needed to go see Springsteen, and they'd make sure everything was covered. Shawn and Heather volunteered to come in on their days off. Jenny and I had a one of our best times ever. Bruce and the E-Street band rocked, and our coverage back here never missed a beat. Thank you.
(And a thank you to my mom for watching the kids. That one probably should have come first.)
Keith
-Classy move by Klayton Korver, showing up for SoundOFF, even after that heartbreak. He said the outpouring of support from viewers lifted his spirits. I'm sure Adam Emmenecker did too when he called into protest his spot-on look alike, fitness "celebrity" John Basedow. Emmenecker says Korver's the one who cares about his hair. Come to think of it, Klayton does have that High School Musical 'do.
-I don't think you have to worry about Keno going anywhere yet.
-Worst part about working this time of year? People stopping by the office to tell you in painstaking detail how their bracket's doing. I know I complain about this every year, but I can't help it. It's getting worse. Know this: no one cares about your bracket but you. Trust me. (Until you win. Then you can brag.)
-The NCAA women's tournament will be back in Des Moines soon. Iowa State and the city did a great job of hosting, and the crowds were among the largest in the nation (thanks to ISU playing). Now about that parking...
-I've never worked with a team having a big season that was more accommodating than Drake. Mike Mahon and company put on a clinic how to maximize coverage and positive feedback. Of course, it helped that Drake had a terrific group of student-athletes to show off.
-I reluctantly started reading The Kite Runner because Andy gave it to me for my birthday, and that's what friends do. You have to read the book, or watch the movie, or wear the tie --- but I owe Andy an extra "thank you". I was dragged out of my comfort zone (I don't read much on war-torn Afghanistan), and, to my surprise, the book is fantastic. I heard Jon Miller (I think it was Jon) say on the radio a few months back that the movie is good too. Thanks Andy (and Kahala).
-I'm into John Adams on HBO. I haven't read the book, which I understand is great, but I may after watching the mini-series. My trip to Washington D.C. has me feeling the history. I can't believe the guy from Sideways and The Negotiator can play a President, but Paul Giamatti is pulling it off.
-The Good Shepherd is a well made, cold movie. I suppose that's by design since Matt Damon plays a detached CIA agent, but it's not very entertaining.
-Did I mention the best part about watching the NCAA Tournament? HDTV.
-Congrats to Kyle Okposo for his first career NHL goal. Okposo and the Des Moines Bucs were the greatest show on ice two years ago. It was free donuts most every night.
-Iowa State played its heart out against Rutgers. Bill Fennelly told us on SoundOFF, his Cyclones would have to play a near perfect game, and get help from Rutgers, to win --- and it nearly happened. Well, nearly may be pushing it. They made a game of it though.
-If the state of Iowa seemed even classier over the weekend it's because Vivian Stringer returned. Don Imus messed with the wrong lady.
-Do you get the feeling the Hawkeye wrestling program is about to make another run of national championships? There's no doubt Tom Brands brought back the swagger. Iowa used to win most matches just by showing up. The Hawks aren't there yet, but they looked old school in St. Louis. Cael and company will have something to say about Iowa dominance, and I can't wait to watch.
-One final note. In the month of February, more people watched SoundOFF than ever before. This kind of growth doesn't usually happen in year 11, and trite as it sounds, we couldn't do it without you. I know most of you who read this support the show, and I sincerely appreciate it.
Though it's nice to be #1 again, that's not why we do the show, and it's not our goal. We want to have fun, entertain, and once in a while, make you think. As long as we're doing that, we'll still feel successful even if we finish behind an infomercial for Gold Bond powder and all its magical, soothing powers. Scratch that---bad choice of words---check that, we probably do need to beat infomercials to stay on the air.
I'd be remiss if I didn't note that I'm well aware the SoundOFF surge in viewers is due, in large part, to the triumphant return of one, Andy Fales. A lot of people didn't fully appreciate Andy's talents until he was gone, and now he's back, a second chance for both sides. (The improbable Drake story didn't hurt either.) Thank you all.
-Oh yeah, speaking of thank yous. I owe several to the people I work with in this sports office. My good friend Ryan and his wife, Heather, gave Jenny and me front row seats to see Bruce Springsteen in Minneapolis. We received the present back in November after Ryan heard Bruce was coming March 16th, Selection Sunday.
Ryan correctly predicted that there was no way I'd have to worry about Iowa, Iowa State or UNI going to the NCAA tournament, so plans were put in place. He never considered Drake. Why would he. So long story short (too late!), I decided I need to stay and work. Andy, Shawn, Chris, and Heather came to me and said I needed to go see Springsteen, and they'd make sure everything was covered. Shawn and Heather volunteered to come in on their days off. Jenny and I had a one of our best times ever. Bruce and the E-Street band rocked, and our coverage back here never missed a beat. Thank you.
(And a thank you to my mom for watching the kids. That one probably should have come first.)
Keith
Friday, March 21, 2008
This is why live sports are the ultimate reality show.
In just over two hours, the Drake Bulldogs first NCAA Tournament game in 37 years provided jumping-up-and-down highs, and punch-in-the-gut lows.
It was one of those shared experiences for many of us that we'll never forget. Central Iowans ignoring their work, huddled around televisions, and yelling at the screen. Nobody objected.
When Drake showed so much heart, and worked its way back from a 16 point deficit, it seemed like another incredible chapter in a storybook season. When the Dogs finally pulled ahead, you could hear people yelling and clapping --- and many of those people didn't really even follow Drake before this season. This team, these guys, made us care. The way they played, and even more importantly, the way they handled themselves when they weren't playing.
The end was cruel for Drake, just as it was exhilarating for Western Kentucky. The Hilltopper coach called the NCAA Tournament the greatest show on earth, and he might be right, even when it feels like a punch in the gut.
I was proud of the way Drake kept fighting, the way the Bulldogs handled defeat with class, and perhaps most of all, the way they represented Iowa.
Once in a while a team comes along that reminds you why you love sports. This was such a team. Even in defeat.
In just over two hours, the Drake Bulldogs first NCAA Tournament game in 37 years provided jumping-up-and-down highs, and punch-in-the-gut lows.
It was one of those shared experiences for many of us that we'll never forget. Central Iowans ignoring their work, huddled around televisions, and yelling at the screen. Nobody objected.
When Drake showed so much heart, and worked its way back from a 16 point deficit, it seemed like another incredible chapter in a storybook season. When the Dogs finally pulled ahead, you could hear people yelling and clapping --- and many of those people didn't really even follow Drake before this season. This team, these guys, made us care. The way they played, and even more importantly, the way they handled themselves when they weren't playing.
The end was cruel for Drake, just as it was exhilarating for Western Kentucky. The Hilltopper coach called the NCAA Tournament the greatest show on earth, and he might be right, even when it feels like a punch in the gut.
I was proud of the way Drake kept fighting, the way the Bulldogs handled defeat with class, and perhaps most of all, the way they represented Iowa.
Once in a while a team comes along that reminds you why you love sports. This was such a team. Even in defeat.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Anyone hear if Wartburg won the national wrestling championship?
Seriously, did you catch this blog's feedback section turning into a debate on what schools, sports, and athletes deserve more media attention? I appreciate the passion, both from the defenders and attackers.
This spirited discussion has no right or wrong answer, so I won't pretend I know exactly what we should and shouldn't report. However, like you, I do have opinions. My views are shaped by both research and observation.
Here's the cold reality: no matter what we cover, someone gets left out, and they're not happy. There is absolutely no way to please everyone.
The challenge with most all college sports in our state beyond D1 (FBS) football and men's basketball is that you are dealing with niches of strong support. For anyone to suggest that our news or SoundOFF audience is as interested in Wartburg wrestling as they are Drake's amazing basketball season is ludicrous. Setting aside the fact Wartburg's not even in our viewing area, and Drake is, it's not even remotely debatable. Make no mistake, you can find a Wartburg wrestling fan who cares about the Knights as much as any one fan cares about the Bulldogs, but when it comes to mainstream interest, it's a no-doubter.
There are people all over the metro area, and beyond, talking Drake hoops right now. Thousands of them are folks who don't typically follow sports. I know because I hear from them all the time. This team's once-in-a-lifetime season excited people in ways that take the story beyond sports fans.
Remember a few years ago when Northern Iowa played in the national championship football game? I thought that was a huge deal, and it no doubt was to Panther fans, but most other people just had a passing interest, another source of Iowa-based pride. I'll never forget being in a packed bar/restaurant the night of the title game. There were a couple hundred fans on hand, and only about six of us paying close attention to the game. What do you think that bar would be like if Iowa or Iowa State played for the national championship in football? This state would revolve around that game the entire week. The same will happen the next time Drake, Iowa, or Iowa State play in a Final Four. There would also be a lot of interest and pride in our viewing area---Central Iowa---if UNI made the NCAA basketball semifinals, but it would not be like the other three. That's not disrespecting UNI, it's the reality of where we live and where the most passion lies.
Women's basketball is another tough call. This week, I heard from a really angry fan of Amy Stephens' Bulldogs. This viewer was offended at our lack of coverage for the ladies in comparison to the men. I can't tell her she's wrong to feel the way she does, because she's entitled to her opinion, but the reality is a much smaller percentage of people get really worked up and passionate about the women's teams. Iowa and Iowa State just made the NCAA Tournament. How do you think the buzz compares to what it would be like if the men were in?
It's not easy, and no one has the right to say your sport doesn't matter, because it does. It's just a question of widespread interest.
Forget the argument, "well, if the media covered it more, more people would care." Yeah, maybe a few more here and there, but I know from personal experience, we could do nightly stories on Simpson's excellent women's basketball team, or Grand View's baseball team, or Valley's swimming team, and you're still not going to convert people to passion. They either have that or they don't. We're in the business of trying to inform and entertain as many of our viewers at once as possible.
Once in a great while, a story comes along that's so compelling, people who didn't have passion before, suddenly care. Recent examples: Zach Johnson, Shawn Johnson, and the Drake Bulldogs.
I ran track for four years in high school. We were never on a local sportscast. Andy Fales swam in high school---same deal. (I do remember how exciting it was when the local TV stations came to our football or basketball games.) I went to college at a division II school, we were overlooked compared to the big boys. It's not going to change, and it's not the media's fault.
Another argument I often hear is that "these girls (or boys) work every bit as hard as those basketball players you keep showing". True. They do. Members of the marching band, debate team, and student council work hard too. Should we show highlights? With unlimited time and resources, we would. Why not.
The most difficult conversations I have are with proud parents of athletes in sports that receive next to no media coverage. There's no good answer because their kids are no less important than those who play football, but the interest of others is different. I love to run, but I don't generally want to watch others run. (There are exceptions.)
I wish we could be all things to all people. You'd be happier, you'd like me more, and more people would watch our television station. However, we have to make choices every day. Sometimes those choices are dictated by what else is going on. The Barnstormers have a scrimmage Saturday. On some Saturdays we'd be there. This Saturday, there's no chance.
We'll keep doing the best we know how, and the "how" keeps evolving. We're all still learning.
Thank you for your time and thoughts.
What do you say we move this in another direction next time?
Seriously, did you catch this blog's feedback section turning into a debate on what schools, sports, and athletes deserve more media attention? I appreciate the passion, both from the defenders and attackers.
This spirited discussion has no right or wrong answer, so I won't pretend I know exactly what we should and shouldn't report. However, like you, I do have opinions. My views are shaped by both research and observation.
Here's the cold reality: no matter what we cover, someone gets left out, and they're not happy. There is absolutely no way to please everyone.
The challenge with most all college sports in our state beyond D1 (FBS) football and men's basketball is that you are dealing with niches of strong support. For anyone to suggest that our news or SoundOFF audience is as interested in Wartburg wrestling as they are Drake's amazing basketball season is ludicrous. Setting aside the fact Wartburg's not even in our viewing area, and Drake is, it's not even remotely debatable. Make no mistake, you can find a Wartburg wrestling fan who cares about the Knights as much as any one fan cares about the Bulldogs, but when it comes to mainstream interest, it's a no-doubter.
There are people all over the metro area, and beyond, talking Drake hoops right now. Thousands of them are folks who don't typically follow sports. I know because I hear from them all the time. This team's once-in-a-lifetime season excited people in ways that take the story beyond sports fans.
Remember a few years ago when Northern Iowa played in the national championship football game? I thought that was a huge deal, and it no doubt was to Panther fans, but most other people just had a passing interest, another source of Iowa-based pride. I'll never forget being in a packed bar/restaurant the night of the title game. There were a couple hundred fans on hand, and only about six of us paying close attention to the game. What do you think that bar would be like if Iowa or Iowa State played for the national championship in football? This state would revolve around that game the entire week. The same will happen the next time Drake, Iowa, or Iowa State play in a Final Four. There would also be a lot of interest and pride in our viewing area---Central Iowa---if UNI made the NCAA basketball semifinals, but it would not be like the other three. That's not disrespecting UNI, it's the reality of where we live and where the most passion lies.
Women's basketball is another tough call. This week, I heard from a really angry fan of Amy Stephens' Bulldogs. This viewer was offended at our lack of coverage for the ladies in comparison to the men. I can't tell her she's wrong to feel the way she does, because she's entitled to her opinion, but the reality is a much smaller percentage of people get really worked up and passionate about the women's teams. Iowa and Iowa State just made the NCAA Tournament. How do you think the buzz compares to what it would be like if the men were in?
It's not easy, and no one has the right to say your sport doesn't matter, because it does. It's just a question of widespread interest.
Forget the argument, "well, if the media covered it more, more people would care." Yeah, maybe a few more here and there, but I know from personal experience, we could do nightly stories on Simpson's excellent women's basketball team, or Grand View's baseball team, or Valley's swimming team, and you're still not going to convert people to passion. They either have that or they don't. We're in the business of trying to inform and entertain as many of our viewers at once as possible.
Once in a great while, a story comes along that's so compelling, people who didn't have passion before, suddenly care. Recent examples: Zach Johnson, Shawn Johnson, and the Drake Bulldogs.
I ran track for four years in high school. We were never on a local sportscast. Andy Fales swam in high school---same deal. (I do remember how exciting it was when the local TV stations came to our football or basketball games.) I went to college at a division II school, we were overlooked compared to the big boys. It's not going to change, and it's not the media's fault.
Another argument I often hear is that "these girls (or boys) work every bit as hard as those basketball players you keep showing". True. They do. Members of the marching band, debate team, and student council work hard too. Should we show highlights? With unlimited time and resources, we would. Why not.
The most difficult conversations I have are with proud parents of athletes in sports that receive next to no media coverage. There's no good answer because their kids are no less important than those who play football, but the interest of others is different. I love to run, but I don't generally want to watch others run. (There are exceptions.)
I wish we could be all things to all people. You'd be happier, you'd like me more, and more people would watch our television station. However, we have to make choices every day. Sometimes those choices are dictated by what else is going on. The Barnstormers have a scrimmage Saturday. On some Saturdays we'd be there. This Saturday, there's no chance.
We'll keep doing the best we know how, and the "how" keeps evolving. We're all still learning.
Thank you for your time and thoughts.
What do you say we move this in another direction next time?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Heard anything on Drake lately?
Yes, we're covering the Bulldogs a lot, and they deserve it.
Not to go too far overboard, but the Dogs delivered the kind of story that made many of us---certainly me---fall in love with sports in the first place. Like you, I've had it up to here with juiced up baseball players, arrested Hawkeyes, and the sex scandals of high school coaches.
Here come the Bulldogs to remind us of the good stuff. Stuff like teamwork, chemistry, unselfishness, joy, camaraderie, discipline, hustle, humility, and academics. These guys are true student-athletes, not NBA majors.
I can't tell you how many people have called, written, or stopped me to say how refreshing they find these Drake Bulldogs. "Refreshing" is the word used most often, and I agree. "Contagious" probably places second.
I strive for objectivity at all times, but as I've said before, no one is completely objective. However, a reputable journalist should always offer full disclosure. To that end, I find it hard not to get caught up in what these Dogs are doing, and the way they're doing it. If they slip, we'll report that too, but I doubt they realize how much they've raised the spirits of many Iowans during this otherwise dreary winter.
I realize a few people want to put a turd in the punchbowl. Life offers some unhappy people who want to pull others down, but I think the vast majority of Iowans know they're seeing a once-in-a-decade story, maybe once-in-a-lifetime; others may genuinely not like Drake. I never forget that my grandmother went to see ET and hated it. She thought it was a stupid movie and didn't really care if ET lived or died. My best friend and I went on a double date in high school to see Kramer vs. Kramer and his girlfriend rooted for Meryl Streep. Andy Fales roots for the bull in a bullfight, which is more understandable than not backing Dustin Hoffman. You just never know what others see.
A few buzzkills who read this blog scoffed at me, and many of you, a few weeks ago for suggesting Keno Davis as front runner for national coach of the year. This just in: The Sporting News named Keno Davis National Coach of the Year.
One of my favorite SoundOFF moments happened this past week when Adam Emmenecker and Klayton Korver got off the bus after winning the MVC Championship and came straight to the studio with their trophies and net. They could have slept, partied, watched ESPN, or knowing Adam, studied, but they wanted to share their high with the rest of us, and they were giddy. Again, it reminded me why I love sports.
A shout out to Andy and Shawn Terrell for doing such a good job in St. Louis all weekend, and Chris Hassel for anchoring our coverage here so I could go with my family to Washington, DC. I had the opportunity to tour the White House and Capitol, along with the other monuments and it was a patriotic thrill. Big thanks to Congressman Boswell and his staff for all their hospitality.
A few days in our nation's capital serves as a stark reminder how much terrorists changed the world on 9/11. Flying makes you feel like a suspect, and though you understand it, even appreciate it, it is inconvenient and frustrating. You can't get near anything in DC without going through a metal detector, and you wouldn't want to.
I did miss my new TV while I was gone. I'm like a kid with his new all-time favorite toy. HDTV makes me want to see everything in high def. I'm re-watching movies, following games I usually ignore, and feeling let down when something is not in HD. It really is awesome. I can't believe I'm about to type this, but I could even see myself staying home to watch a game on TV when I could be there in person. Yikes.
It really is Hilton South for the Cyclone women in Kansas City. Did you realize no Big 12 team has won more tourney games there than ISU? The Clones are 14-5, and I think after that blasting of the Buffs, I-State is in the NCAA tournament, which would be great news for the Des Moines economy and next week's NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena.
Yes, we're covering the Bulldogs a lot, and they deserve it.
Not to go too far overboard, but the Dogs delivered the kind of story that made many of us---certainly me---fall in love with sports in the first place. Like you, I've had it up to here with juiced up baseball players, arrested Hawkeyes, and the sex scandals of high school coaches.
Here come the Bulldogs to remind us of the good stuff. Stuff like teamwork, chemistry, unselfishness, joy, camaraderie, discipline, hustle, humility, and academics. These guys are true student-athletes, not NBA majors.
I can't tell you how many people have called, written, or stopped me to say how refreshing they find these Drake Bulldogs. "Refreshing" is the word used most often, and I agree. "Contagious" probably places second.
I strive for objectivity at all times, but as I've said before, no one is completely objective. However, a reputable journalist should always offer full disclosure. To that end, I find it hard not to get caught up in what these Dogs are doing, and the way they're doing it. If they slip, we'll report that too, but I doubt they realize how much they've raised the spirits of many Iowans during this otherwise dreary winter.
I realize a few people want to put a turd in the punchbowl. Life offers some unhappy people who want to pull others down, but I think the vast majority of Iowans know they're seeing a once-in-a-decade story, maybe once-in-a-lifetime; others may genuinely not like Drake. I never forget that my grandmother went to see ET and hated it. She thought it was a stupid movie and didn't really care if ET lived or died. My best friend and I went on a double date in high school to see Kramer vs. Kramer and his girlfriend rooted for Meryl Streep. Andy Fales roots for the bull in a bullfight, which is more understandable than not backing Dustin Hoffman. You just never know what others see.
A few buzzkills who read this blog scoffed at me, and many of you, a few weeks ago for suggesting Keno Davis as front runner for national coach of the year. This just in: The Sporting News named Keno Davis National Coach of the Year.
One of my favorite SoundOFF moments happened this past week when Adam Emmenecker and Klayton Korver got off the bus after winning the MVC Championship and came straight to the studio with their trophies and net. They could have slept, partied, watched ESPN, or knowing Adam, studied, but they wanted to share their high with the rest of us, and they were giddy. Again, it reminded me why I love sports.
A shout out to Andy and Shawn Terrell for doing such a good job in St. Louis all weekend, and Chris Hassel for anchoring our coverage here so I could go with my family to Washington, DC. I had the opportunity to tour the White House and Capitol, along with the other monuments and it was a patriotic thrill. Big thanks to Congressman Boswell and his staff for all their hospitality.
A few days in our nation's capital serves as a stark reminder how much terrorists changed the world on 9/11. Flying makes you feel like a suspect, and though you understand it, even appreciate it, it is inconvenient and frustrating. You can't get near anything in DC without going through a metal detector, and you wouldn't want to.
I did miss my new TV while I was gone. I'm like a kid with his new all-time favorite toy. HDTV makes me want to see everything in high def. I'm re-watching movies, following games I usually ignore, and feeling let down when something is not in HD. It really is awesome. I can't believe I'm about to type this, but I could even see myself staying home to watch a game on TV when I could be there in person. Yikes.
It really is Hilton South for the Cyclone women in Kansas City. Did you realize no Big 12 team has won more tourney games there than ISU? The Clones are 14-5, and I think after that blasting of the Buffs, I-State is in the NCAA tournament, which would be great news for the Des Moines economy and next week's NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena.
Monday, March 03, 2008
I doubt Lisa Bluder was ever really on the "hot seat" in Iowa City, but to start the season with that bad buzz, and end it as "Big Ten Coach of the Year" is quite a turnaround. Congrats Lisa. Bluder coached the Hawks to a share of the Big Ten title, but next to no one noticed---or at least they didn't bother to show. The U of I needs to figure out why more fans don't follow the women's basketball program. Go spy on Iowa State for ideas.
Bill Fennelly's doing his best job of coaching at Iowa State, and that's saying something. Des Moines needs the hobbled Cyclones in the NCAA tourney and Bill is coaching his head off to make it happen. Iowa State and Iowa at Wells Fargo Arena sounds good. Maybe the Iowa fans on this side of the state would support the women.
I called Klayton Korver, "Kyle", on SoundOFF. That's about the 17th time that's happened in the past five years. Sorry Klayton. Once was more than enough. The First Family of Iowa basketball deserves better.
Is there a better story in college basketball than Adam Emmenecker? Former walk-on with no division one scholarship offers takes on four majors and two minors while leading one of the nation's losingest basketball programs to a 25-4 record. As I watched Drake honor Adam on Senior Day, I felt proud. I imagine his mom and dad couldn't contain themselves.
Good story from the Register's Andrew Logue on Leonard Houston and the reason his dad couldn't make it to Senior Day: prison. Houston overcame a lot.
Shawn Johnson will win the all-around gold in Beijing. I'm more sure of that than ever after she finished second at the American Cup. Shawn tried new, harder routines and she didn't get all depressed after stumbling. I'm sure she's disappointed, but she still had fun. Shawn will stick it when it matters most.
My youngest son, Colin, celebrated his 4th birthday at a Bucs game at 95KGGO Arena. He loves that place. One of the nicest guys in sports, Brad Chiafos, took us on a tour of the locker room between periods. Uh, thanks Brad... I guess. The smell defies description. Andy tried with "Bigfoot's butt crack", but that doesn't quite capture the full stink.
I honestly don't know how I lived without high def television. All of you are right, the difference is staggering, and watching basketball---or any sport---is best of all. I love it. Can't wait for baseball.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Here's a paraphrased example of a phone call from a viewer we can count on at girls (and boys) state tourney time: "I just watched your so-called newscast, and I noticed you don't think Iowa City is in the state of Iowa. You sure found time for Waukee, Dowling, and Roosevelt, but not time for every team. And you call yourself a complete broadcast... (click)" (Teams subject to change from year-to-year, but you get the idea.)
These calls, understandably, ring in because people who have relocated to Central Iowa want to see the old Alma mater or hometown. Unfortunately, on days when a lot is going on (take Wednesday for example: Girls State, Kansas at ISU, Iowa at Penn State, ISU women at Missouri, Indiana State at UNI, Bucs sold, IRL merger, boys basketball substates...), we have to make choices, and towns or schools in the channel 13 viewing area come first. Nobody watches us in Iowa City, unless they have a really BIG antenna (or they're on whotv.com).
Having said that, I'm often amazed how far our signal goes. I'm always happy to hear, and sometimes surprised, who's able to watch. I appreciate the feedback too because we need to know. We're trying to do the best we can. I've added scores or highlights in future sportscasts many times because I learned we're on in a place I wouldn't have guessed.
I wish I could say we'll cover Ft. Dodge as much as Des Moines, but the reality is proximity matters when it comes to coverage logistics. I'm sorry we can't be everywhere. It would make my inbox and voice mail a much more pleasant experience this time of year. I only ignore the people with no manners...
Big props to Shawn Terrell. Tuesday night he and Andy Fales covered the Drake game at Missouri State. Shawn drove back half the night, woke up Wednesday morning, reported live from Girls State at 5 & 6, then zipped up to Ames where he reported on Iowa State's loss to Kansas. He even found time to feed Jayhawk interviews to the NBC in Kansas City. Shawn, take a bow. And a nap.
I'm finally going Hi-Def. I think I was one of the final holdouts in the newsroom, but I decided I want to see the glorious grass of baseball fields in HDTV. I'm told it doesn't disappoint. I don't want to start a cable vs. dish war, but we stuck with Mediacom, and so far, I love it. The digital recorder improves on TiVo, the signal, compared to basic cable, is sharper even on non-HD channels, and with Mediacom phone and Internet, I was surprised at the bundled up price. Less than I expected (though I still need the Big Ten Network, and wish I had NFL Sunday Ticket.). I already have that, "why didn't I do this years ago" feeling. Then I remember the answer: cost of the 4o" Sony HDTV I wanted. Two years ago, it was $2500+. Last week I found it for $1300 locally, and $999 online with no tax or shipping. The picture is glorious. Can't wait to see the Cubs blow it in high definition.
Spiderwick Chronicles at the Science Center of Iowa's Imax screen is awesome. The kids will love it, parents will like it, and you'll make up for the additional box office charge at the concession stand. SCI's prices are reasonable, especially when compared to the ridiculous $4 Coke and $7 bag of popcorn at the chains.
Even with the win over Butler, Drake looks vulnerable. Adam Emmenecker is everything you want in a student-athlete, and deserving of all the praise, but his one flaw, the inability to shoot the 3, has defenses starting to sag off him. We'll see if it matters in St. Louis and beyond.
Do you think we've over-covered Drake? Under-covered? Just right? Vote at whotv.com on the sports page.
Have a great weekend! I can't wait to see Semi-Pro. Andy makes fun of me, but what can I say, Will Ferrell makes me laugh.
These calls, understandably, ring in because people who have relocated to Central Iowa want to see the old Alma mater or hometown. Unfortunately, on days when a lot is going on (take Wednesday for example: Girls State, Kansas at ISU, Iowa at Penn State, ISU women at Missouri, Indiana State at UNI, Bucs sold, IRL merger, boys basketball substates...), we have to make choices, and towns or schools in the channel 13 viewing area come first. Nobody watches us in Iowa City, unless they have a really BIG antenna (or they're on whotv.com).
Having said that, I'm often amazed how far our signal goes. I'm always happy to hear, and sometimes surprised, who's able to watch. I appreciate the feedback too because we need to know. We're trying to do the best we can. I've added scores or highlights in future sportscasts many times because I learned we're on in a place I wouldn't have guessed.
I wish I could say we'll cover Ft. Dodge as much as Des Moines, but the reality is proximity matters when it comes to coverage logistics. I'm sorry we can't be everywhere. It would make my inbox and voice mail a much more pleasant experience this time of year. I only ignore the people with no manners...
Big props to Shawn Terrell. Tuesday night he and Andy Fales covered the Drake game at Missouri State. Shawn drove back half the night, woke up Wednesday morning, reported live from Girls State at 5 & 6, then zipped up to Ames where he reported on Iowa State's loss to Kansas. He even found time to feed Jayhawk interviews to the NBC in Kansas City. Shawn, take a bow. And a nap.
I'm finally going Hi-Def. I think I was one of the final holdouts in the newsroom, but I decided I want to see the glorious grass of baseball fields in HDTV. I'm told it doesn't disappoint. I don't want to start a cable vs. dish war, but we stuck with Mediacom, and so far, I love it. The digital recorder improves on TiVo, the signal, compared to basic cable, is sharper even on non-HD channels, and with Mediacom phone and Internet, I was surprised at the bundled up price. Less than I expected (though I still need the Big Ten Network, and wish I had NFL Sunday Ticket.). I already have that, "why didn't I do this years ago" feeling. Then I remember the answer: cost of the 4o" Sony HDTV I wanted. Two years ago, it was $2500+. Last week I found it for $1300 locally, and $999 online with no tax or shipping. The picture is glorious. Can't wait to see the Cubs blow it in high definition.
Spiderwick Chronicles at the Science Center of Iowa's Imax screen is awesome. The kids will love it, parents will like it, and you'll make up for the additional box office charge at the concession stand. SCI's prices are reasonable, especially when compared to the ridiculous $4 Coke and $7 bag of popcorn at the chains.
Even with the win over Butler, Drake looks vulnerable. Adam Emmenecker is everything you want in a student-athlete, and deserving of all the praise, but his one flaw, the inability to shoot the 3, has defenses starting to sag off him. We'll see if it matters in St. Louis and beyond.
Do you think we've over-covered Drake? Under-covered? Just right? Vote at whotv.com on the sports page.
Have a great weekend! I can't wait to see Semi-Pro. Andy makes fun of me, but what can I say, Will Ferrell makes me laugh.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Did you see Leonard Houston nearly hit his head on the rim at Butler? It was unreal. The human pogo stick provided the best highlight in a game full of them. Drake proved it's for real.
The Bulldogs won at Hinkle Fieldhouse and dropped six spots behind Butler. That makes about as much sense as Flavor Flav.
Did you see Chris Hassel get flat run over at Hinkle Fieldhouse? Happened on national TV. Fortunately, Chris' hair never moved. We call it the tidal wave. Big wave up front, and enough gel to make Pat Riley insecure.
I watched the game at Legends on Court Avenue, and it was awesome. Standing room only, people decked out in blue, loud cheers for Drake. It's just hard to believe it's happened.
Did you catch Adam Emmenecker on SoundOFF? I hope so, but if not, I urge you to watch the video back on the whotv.com sports page. He's a reason this team has an approval rating Barack Obama would kill for. Emmenecker walked-on at Drake, has four majors and two minors, and should win MVC player of the year.
I'm not sure I can add much to the Hawkeye arrests story. It's beyond embarrassing. I know several hardcore Hawk fans---I'm sure you do too---who can't even spin this nonsense. 14 players arrested in a year, and that doesn't even count the two who were suspended and then left school for unnamed reasons. The number could grow. I'm sure no one is more frustrated than Kirk Ferentz.
What a shock. Sounds like they're coming after Roger Clemens for perjury. After watching him try to keep his story straight, while throwing several people close to him under the bus, including his wife, I'd say he issued a challenge. Seriously, is there anybody out there who really believes Clemens? I know he's just one of many cheaters, but I think his ego kept him from doing the smart thing. We're happy to forgive, but you have to own up.
Great news that we now have ESPN radio in Des Moines. 1700, The Champ, will broadcast ESPN 24/7. There are no daily local shows yet, that I know of, so KXNO should continue its strong ratings. Cotlar and Company, The Jon Miller Show, and Marty and Miller all do well, in part, because they stress local. However, sports fans win when we have more options. Just as you wouldn't want just one local TV station (though, we'd like to be it), more than one sports talk radio station is a big plus. (Remember when there were three? KXNO was the last one standing.)
Happy Birthday, Shawn Terrell. Shawn turned 30, and in an effort to hang on to his 20's, held his birthday gathering at the downtown Liar's Club. Now this is the new hot spot for those who want to see and be seen. I'm sure I would have loved it 20 years ago. It took me 20 minutes to get a beer (not exaggerating) and 15 minutes to use the bathroom. I did enjoy that trip because Andy refused to let a woman use the men's room unless she was willing to use a urinal. We did have a good time despite the overcrowding, and the music was great. I think they felt sorry for us old folks and played a lot of 80's tunes.
Want to bring out the passion in people? Ask how they feel about smoking in public places. As I write this, Andy is about to give his opinion on our 10 p.m. news---and if you've watched Andy for any length of time, you know what side he's on---but the e-mails have been non-stop, and the issue threatened to take over SoundOFF Sunday night. Personally, I can't wait to pick a place for eating, drinking, or being entertained without giving thought to breathing second-hand smoke and stinking up the house with my clothes. My mother is a lung cancer survivor so I'm not capable of objectivity on this argument.
I saw U23D with my little guys, Colin and Cade. I probably would not have gone if I knew kids had to pay full price, actually more than full price, $8 at Cobblestone. Between the3D projector and Buddy Holly glasses, I'm sure theaters take on additional overhead. Anyway, the 3D technology is finally worth seeing. There are times when it appears Bono or the Edge are leaning out over you in your seat. It's a cool movie to experience for anyone, and a must for U2 fans. It's rated G, and the kids enjoyed it too. Never too young for exposure to classic music. B for U23D, unless you're Jon Miller reading this, then it's A. My highlight, no surprise, "Where the Streets Have No Name".
I love the space program, especially the old Apollo days, so I enjoyed In the Shadow of the Moon. It's a documentary about fulfilling Kennedy's challenge of walking on the moon by the end of sixties. Of course, we did it, which goes to show the value of goal-setting, among other things. There are many rare film clips of the moon and the Astronauts walking on it. Fascinating, and still hard to believe (the movie even addresses the conspiracy theories). B
The Academy Awards show was dreadfully dull. Maybe it was the writer's strike being settled so late, because not even Jon Stewart seemed to have much of a pulse.
Enjoy My Dad is Better than your Dad.
The Bulldogs won at Hinkle Fieldhouse and dropped six spots behind Butler. That makes about as much sense as Flavor Flav.
Did you see Chris Hassel get flat run over at Hinkle Fieldhouse? Happened on national TV. Fortunately, Chris' hair never moved. We call it the tidal wave. Big wave up front, and enough gel to make Pat Riley insecure.
I watched the game at Legends on Court Avenue, and it was awesome. Standing room only, people decked out in blue, loud cheers for Drake. It's just hard to believe it's happened.
Did you catch Adam Emmenecker on SoundOFF? I hope so, but if not, I urge you to watch the video back on the whotv.com sports page. He's a reason this team has an approval rating Barack Obama would kill for. Emmenecker walked-on at Drake, has four majors and two minors, and should win MVC player of the year.
I'm not sure I can add much to the Hawkeye arrests story. It's beyond embarrassing. I know several hardcore Hawk fans---I'm sure you do too---who can't even spin this nonsense. 14 players arrested in a year, and that doesn't even count the two who were suspended and then left school for unnamed reasons. The number could grow. I'm sure no one is more frustrated than Kirk Ferentz.
What a shock. Sounds like they're coming after Roger Clemens for perjury. After watching him try to keep his story straight, while throwing several people close to him under the bus, including his wife, I'd say he issued a challenge. Seriously, is there anybody out there who really believes Clemens? I know he's just one of many cheaters, but I think his ego kept him from doing the smart thing. We're happy to forgive, but you have to own up.
Great news that we now have ESPN radio in Des Moines. 1700, The Champ, will broadcast ESPN 24/7. There are no daily local shows yet, that I know of, so KXNO should continue its strong ratings. Cotlar and Company, The Jon Miller Show, and Marty and Miller all do well, in part, because they stress local. However, sports fans win when we have more options. Just as you wouldn't want just one local TV station (though, we'd like to be it), more than one sports talk radio station is a big plus. (Remember when there were three? KXNO was the last one standing.)
Happy Birthday, Shawn Terrell. Shawn turned 30, and in an effort to hang on to his 20's, held his birthday gathering at the downtown Liar's Club. Now this is the new hot spot for those who want to see and be seen. I'm sure I would have loved it 20 years ago. It took me 20 minutes to get a beer (not exaggerating) and 15 minutes to use the bathroom. I did enjoy that trip because Andy refused to let a woman use the men's room unless she was willing to use a urinal. We did have a good time despite the overcrowding, and the music was great. I think they felt sorry for us old folks and played a lot of 80's tunes.
Want to bring out the passion in people? Ask how they feel about smoking in public places. As I write this, Andy is about to give his opinion on our 10 p.m. news---and if you've watched Andy for any length of time, you know what side he's on---but the e-mails have been non-stop, and the issue threatened to take over SoundOFF Sunday night. Personally, I can't wait to pick a place for eating, drinking, or being entertained without giving thought to breathing second-hand smoke and stinking up the house with my clothes. My mother is a lung cancer survivor so I'm not capable of objectivity on this argument.
I saw U23D with my little guys, Colin and Cade. I probably would not have gone if I knew kids had to pay full price, actually more than full price, $8 at Cobblestone. Between the3D projector and Buddy Holly glasses, I'm sure theaters take on additional overhead. Anyway, the 3D technology is finally worth seeing. There are times when it appears Bono or the Edge are leaning out over you in your seat. It's a cool movie to experience for anyone, and a must for U2 fans. It's rated G, and the kids enjoyed it too. Never too young for exposure to classic music. B for U23D, unless you're Jon Miller reading this, then it's A. My highlight, no surprise, "Where the Streets Have No Name".
I love the space program, especially the old Apollo days, so I enjoyed In the Shadow of the Moon. It's a documentary about fulfilling Kennedy's challenge of walking on the moon by the end of sixties. Of course, we did it, which goes to show the value of goal-setting, among other things. There are many rare film clips of the moon and the Astronauts walking on it. Fascinating, and still hard to believe (the movie even addresses the conspiracy theories). B
The Academy Awards show was dreadfully dull. Maybe it was the writer's strike being settled so late, because not even Jon Stewart seemed to have much of a pulse.
Enjoy My Dad is Better than your Dad.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Iowa is smart to give Kirk Ferentz another year. He needs it for recruiting, and Ferentz deserves more patience. Some fans don't want to admit just how hard it is to win big at Iowa, and Ferentz had one of the greatest five year runs in school history.
I don't think Ferentz will duplicate the success of the top ten years, not three in a row, but if things break just right, he could get Iowa back to January. Fair warning, it's getting harder, not easier. (See Minnesota and Illinois' latest recruiting classes).
Indiana is doing the right thing: getting rid of that snake, Kelvin Sampson. I know Sampson's not stupid, so he must be arrogant. There's no other way to explain his actions. How could he do the same foolish things again, after nearly not being hired out of concerns for that nonsense in his past at Oklahoma? It's testament to how some people don't change.
I predict we'll hear Steve Alford's name as an IU candidate, from a national sports reporter, by the end of the day Friday. Not much of a prediction, really. It's going to happen.
Adam Haluska traded to the Rockets. Hopefully, he can find some playing time in Houston.
Good bounce back by Adam's little brother, Sean. Sean couldn't hit sand falling off a camel for weeks, but he's hot now.
No matter how much the Iowa women's basketball team wins, people outside the loyal core of fans don't show. The Hawks should make the NCAA tournament, which will help Des Moines' hosting a bunch. If ISU makes a run and gets in too, they'd both end up in Des Moines. Count on it.
The UNI basketball program has slipped since Greg McDermott left. Too soon to tell if Ben Jacobson can get it back to where it was just a few years ago.
The AHL franchise owners for Des Moines need to dump the name Stars before next season. Pick a nickname unique to Des Moines, and use a logo and colors that get people excited. There are next to no Dallas Stars fans in Des Moines, so it never made any sense to try and ride those coattails. These aren't the Cubs we're talking about. Create a brand that remains no matter which NHL franchise provides the players, and most people won't notice when those inevitable changes take place.
More proof women shouldn't use magazine photos for comparison. Check out Danica Patrick in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. I did. As research. For work. Anyway, I've seen Danica up close, and she's cute, but she looks nothing like the spray-tanned, airbrushed figure you see in SI, not that there's anything wrong with that. It's just not real.
I watched Andy's recommendation King of Kong: Fistful of Quarters. Since I have little interest in video games, and I've never played Donkey Kong, I kind of dreaded watching it, but 30 minutes in I was hooked. Like most good stories, it makes you openly root for the "hero". I can't believe I'd recommend this too, but I am. My stepsons wanted no part of the movie, and they didn't move for 90 minutes.
I don't think Ferentz will duplicate the success of the top ten years, not three in a row, but if things break just right, he could get Iowa back to January. Fair warning, it's getting harder, not easier. (See Minnesota and Illinois' latest recruiting classes).
Indiana is doing the right thing: getting rid of that snake, Kelvin Sampson. I know Sampson's not stupid, so he must be arrogant. There's no other way to explain his actions. How could he do the same foolish things again, after nearly not being hired out of concerns for that nonsense in his past at Oklahoma? It's testament to how some people don't change.
I predict we'll hear Steve Alford's name as an IU candidate, from a national sports reporter, by the end of the day Friday. Not much of a prediction, really. It's going to happen.
Adam Haluska traded to the Rockets. Hopefully, he can find some playing time in Houston.
Good bounce back by Adam's little brother, Sean. Sean couldn't hit sand falling off a camel for weeks, but he's hot now.
No matter how much the Iowa women's basketball team wins, people outside the loyal core of fans don't show. The Hawks should make the NCAA tournament, which will help Des Moines' hosting a bunch. If ISU makes a run and gets in too, they'd both end up in Des Moines. Count on it.
The UNI basketball program has slipped since Greg McDermott left. Too soon to tell if Ben Jacobson can get it back to where it was just a few years ago.
The AHL franchise owners for Des Moines need to dump the name Stars before next season. Pick a nickname unique to Des Moines, and use a logo and colors that get people excited. There are next to no Dallas Stars fans in Des Moines, so it never made any sense to try and ride those coattails. These aren't the Cubs we're talking about. Create a brand that remains no matter which NHL franchise provides the players, and most people won't notice when those inevitable changes take place.
More proof women shouldn't use magazine photos for comparison. Check out Danica Patrick in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. I did. As research. For work. Anyway, I've seen Danica up close, and she's cute, but she looks nothing like the spray-tanned, airbrushed figure you see in SI, not that there's anything wrong with that. It's just not real.
I watched Andy's recommendation King of Kong: Fistful of Quarters. Since I have little interest in video games, and I've never played Donkey Kong, I kind of dreaded watching it, but 30 minutes in I was hooked. Like most good stories, it makes you openly root for the "hero". I can't believe I'd recommend this too, but I am. My stepsons wanted no part of the movie, and they didn't move for 90 minutes.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
The theme for Drake is "Believe", and I can't believe what I just saw. The Bulldogs blew an 11 point lead in the second half, and missed two shots to win at the buzzer. The Dogs even snatched defeat from the jaws of victory when Josh Young made an uncharacteristic mental mistake in the final minute.
The Knapp Center rocked like never before all night, and the crowd was just waiting to explode when Drake won. The Bulldogs would then cut the nets down to celebrate their outright conference championship (Keno Davis opted to not cut down the nets at UNI. Class move, and the right move.) Instead, people just sat in their chairs stunned that the Dogs had lost. Next to no one moved for what seemed like minutes.
A little perspective is needed, and Keno and the Boys provided it. They seemed less devastated than several people in our newsroom (paging John Bachman, Erin Kiernan, and Chris Hassel). The head coach correctly pointed out if either of Drake's final shots had gone in, we'd talk about another exciting win. Josh Young seemed okay despite the rare brain cramp. And Klayton Korver talked about how money Bradley was down the stretch. Plus, when you're 23-3 and you've already won the MVC, how bad can it be?
Now, the Dogs need a good showing Saturday. If they lose at Butler, that means they'll have lost three of four and Drake will be in danger of falling out of the top 25, not to mention a decent seeding in the NCAA Tournament. The Bracketbuster is still big, but it lost a little something, thanks to Bradley.
I thought I'd seen my quota of bad basketball after Iowa's second half against Michigan last week and Iowa State's awful first twenty minutes against Nebraska Saturday. I was wrong. The first 10 minutes of the Northwestern at Iowa game set basketball back about 100 years. Northwestern is terrible. Iowa was too. Against the Big Ten's worst team, and one of the nation's worst defenses, Iowa scored 1 point in the first 9 minutes or so. Airballs, turnovers, traveling... the Hawks did it all, and Northwestern was right there stride-for-ugly-stride. Iowa did win, and a win is a win, but all the progress Iowa seemed to be making two weeks ago is suddenly stalled. I have no doubt Todd Lickliter can coach, but the Hawks need to get it going again. Hope, and therefore season ticket sales, depend on it.
I'm headed home to watch a documentary called The King of Kong: Fistful of Quarters. It's about Donkey Kong, which I know nothing about, but Andy says that doesn't matter, it's great. It will give me something to do between trips to the bathroom. We have a house full of boys projectile vomiting like fire hydrants. Anyone else have the flu? If you don't see me tomorrow, you'll know what happened.
The Knapp Center rocked like never before all night, and the crowd was just waiting to explode when Drake won. The Bulldogs would then cut the nets down to celebrate their outright conference championship (Keno Davis opted to not cut down the nets at UNI. Class move, and the right move.) Instead, people just sat in their chairs stunned that the Dogs had lost. Next to no one moved for what seemed like minutes.
A little perspective is needed, and Keno and the Boys provided it. They seemed less devastated than several people in our newsroom (paging John Bachman, Erin Kiernan, and Chris Hassel). The head coach correctly pointed out if either of Drake's final shots had gone in, we'd talk about another exciting win. Josh Young seemed okay despite the rare brain cramp. And Klayton Korver talked about how money Bradley was down the stretch. Plus, when you're 23-3 and you've already won the MVC, how bad can it be?
Now, the Dogs need a good showing Saturday. If they lose at Butler, that means they'll have lost three of four and Drake will be in danger of falling out of the top 25, not to mention a decent seeding in the NCAA Tournament. The Bracketbuster is still big, but it lost a little something, thanks to Bradley.
I thought I'd seen my quota of bad basketball after Iowa's second half against Michigan last week and Iowa State's awful first twenty minutes against Nebraska Saturday. I was wrong. The first 10 minutes of the Northwestern at Iowa game set basketball back about 100 years. Northwestern is terrible. Iowa was too. Against the Big Ten's worst team, and one of the nation's worst defenses, Iowa scored 1 point in the first 9 minutes or so. Airballs, turnovers, traveling... the Hawks did it all, and Northwestern was right there stride-for-ugly-stride. Iowa did win, and a win is a win, but all the progress Iowa seemed to be making two weeks ago is suddenly stalled. I have no doubt Todd Lickliter can coach, but the Hawks need to get it going again. Hope, and therefore season ticket sales, depend on it.
I'm headed home to watch a documentary called The King of Kong: Fistful of Quarters. It's about Donkey Kong, which I know nothing about, but Andy says that doesn't matter, it's great. It will give me something to do between trips to the bathroom. We have a house full of boys projectile vomiting like fire hydrants. Anyone else have the flu? If you don't see me tomorrow, you'll know what happened.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
We just finished SoundOFF a few minutes ago. As usual, Andy made me laugh several times, though for a change, it was Andy who lost it and couldn't recover. The following page from our friends at the SportsPickle.com sent Andy into a rare laugh-lock:
http://www.sportspickle.com/
It's a really juvenile picture, but like many things at the Pickle, perfectly captures the absurdity of the Rodriguez vs. West Virginia nonsense.
After we gave a "Thumbs Down" to Iowa State's top football recruit, Sedrick Johnson, for sending a Letter of Intent to two schools---ISU & Texas A&M---I was asked on air if Johnson was from Texas. I wasn't sure. I thought so, but wasn't 100%, so I asked. I've already heard from three Cyclone fans who wonder how I can be so "unprepared" and "poorly researched". I'll tell you how: because I'm not a hardcore fan, and unlike them, I don't care about specific recruiting at all (general, yes). I've learned over the years to wait and see who shows up and who turns out.
So, the critics are right. I will not be doing a lot of research on Sed Johnson's high school stats, favorite ice cream, or player he most looks up to . I leave that for the fine folks at www.cyclonereport.com, www.cyclonenation.com, and www.cyclonefanatic.com Once the recruits get here, I promise we'll keep an eye on the players, and as always, tell you what we think.
Keno Davis came in for a segment on SoundOFF. As you'd expect, he was good. Davis avoids a lot of coachspeak, which makes him infinitely more interesting. Hopefully that continues. He talked a lot on air about all the stuff you'd expect, but off air, he asked who he'd been compared to this week in our Look Alikes segment. Keno and his wife, Krista, watch SoundOFF and they've been getting a kick out of all nominations: Dermot Mulroney, Mel Gibson, Dan Winters... to name a few. Those are all good-looking guys, which happens when you're 23-2. Go 2-23 and the uglies start showing up. If you have a Keno look alike idea, send it to:
soundoff@whotv.com
A bunch of us went to the Bucs game Saturday night. The place was packed, and the energy unbelievable. The Bucs responded by scoring a season high 7 goals, and that means DONUTS! Free Krispy Kremes for everyone.
Even if you're not a wresting fan, you should take great pride in our state tournament. It's the best in the nation. No other state is close. Well done by all involved.
I watched Zodiak this weekend. Long movie, but good. I knew the ending, which will leave many people unsatisfied, but it's a true story (on the Zodiak serial killer in California). B
It's 12: 15 a.m. and I have to have two of the kids at the dentist at 7:30 a.m. Better go.
Stay warm. Have a good week.
http://www.sportspickle.com/
It's a really juvenile picture, but like many things at the Pickle, perfectly captures the absurdity of the Rodriguez vs. West Virginia nonsense.
After we gave a "Thumbs Down" to Iowa State's top football recruit, Sedrick Johnson, for sending a Letter of Intent to two schools---ISU & Texas A&M---I was asked on air if Johnson was from Texas. I wasn't sure. I thought so, but wasn't 100%, so I asked. I've already heard from three Cyclone fans who wonder how I can be so "unprepared" and "poorly researched". I'll tell you how: because I'm not a hardcore fan, and unlike them, I don't care about specific recruiting at all (general, yes). I've learned over the years to wait and see who shows up and who turns out.
So, the critics are right. I will not be doing a lot of research on Sed Johnson's high school stats, favorite ice cream, or player he most looks up to . I leave that for the fine folks at www.cyclonereport.com, www.cyclonenation.com, and www.cyclonefanatic.com Once the recruits get here, I promise we'll keep an eye on the players, and as always, tell you what we think.
Keno Davis came in for a segment on SoundOFF. As you'd expect, he was good. Davis avoids a lot of coachspeak, which makes him infinitely more interesting. Hopefully that continues. He talked a lot on air about all the stuff you'd expect, but off air, he asked who he'd been compared to this week in our Look Alikes segment. Keno and his wife, Krista, watch SoundOFF and they've been getting a kick out of all nominations: Dermot Mulroney, Mel Gibson, Dan Winters... to name a few. Those are all good-looking guys, which happens when you're 23-2. Go 2-23 and the uglies start showing up. If you have a Keno look alike idea, send it to:
soundoff@whotv.com
A bunch of us went to the Bucs game Saturday night. The place was packed, and the energy unbelievable. The Bucs responded by scoring a season high 7 goals, and that means DONUTS! Free Krispy Kremes for everyone.
Even if you're not a wresting fan, you should take great pride in our state tournament. It's the best in the nation. No other state is close. Well done by all involved.
I watched Zodiak this weekend. Long movie, but good. I knew the ending, which will leave many people unsatisfied, but it's a true story (on the Zodiak serial killer in California). B
It's 12: 15 a.m. and I have to have two of the kids at the dentist at 7:30 a.m. Better go.
Stay warm. Have a good week.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Indiana better learn from Ohio State's mistakes and be careful, but this mess must end with Kelvin Sampson fired. I never understood why Indiana would hire a guy already knee deep in violations and scandal, not to mention a horrible graduation rate. Say what you will about Bob Knight---and I've said plenty---his players went to class, and Knight didn't cheat. Choke yes. Cheat no.
Did you see where Pat Knight recommended Steve Alford? If there's one place Alford might be as worshiped as he thinks he should, it's Indiana. However, with each passing year, fewer kids, even in the Hoosier State know who Alford is/was. So it comes down to coaching, and Steve's not bad, but he's not good either. Indiana demands more than mediocre, but the Hoosiers shouldn't have sold their souls for Sampson. They got what they deserve.
How proud were you to see your tax dollars at work in that Clemens vs. McNamee circus? McNamee's a weasel, but I think it's pretty obvious he's finally telling the truth about Clemens. Everyone else McNamee says he injected with HGH or steroids backs the weasel. Clemens looked horrible as he tried to keep his stories straight. What a shame he didn't just do what Pettitte and Giambi did. Admit, apologize, help others. We love to forgive people in this country.
Any final shred of hope I held out for Roger telling the truth disappeared when he claimed he had no idea McNamee was injecting Clemens' wife with HGH! And then when Roger's wife 'fessed up and complained of circulation problems, Roger didn't send her to the doctor. He didn't beat up McNamee. He didn't even fire McNamee. Give me a break.
The most embarrassing part of watching all that waste of our money at work was some of the politicians falling all over themselves to try and help their "hero". Why did even this become partisan politics? Because Clemens is good friends with the Bush family? Aren't we better than this? Riveting theater, but disgusting at the same time.
If you ever wondered why the former Cyclone Stadium is now Jack Trice Stadium, please read:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blackhistory2008/news/story?id=3242390
I know some coaches think a loss is never a good thing, but it probably is for Drake. I don't think the Dogs ever got too caught up or too cocky, but it's a good reminder before the tournaments start. When you haven't lost in three months, you forget how bad it feels. (I guess you do. I never played for a team that went very long without losing, so this is conjecture on my part.)
Which TV personality makes you hit the mute or turn the channel? I'm not very critical when it comes to other sportscasters because I truly appreciate how hard the job can be, not to mention I've received my share of mail from people who can't stand me on sight. That kind of thing doesn't bother some people; it does me. Anyway, maybe he's a nice guy, I have no idea, but ESPN's Stephen A. Smith is a channel-changer for me. My Dad has two: Chris Berman and Stuart Scott. My mom can't take Katie Couric.
I just received a book for my review: Buff Dad. Chris and Shawn are having a field day with this one. The book says moms aren't the only ones to gain weight when kids come along, so Buff Dad promises it can whip me into tip-tip shape in four weeks. First Basedow, now this.
Maybe I'll start tomorrow. No, March. Well, perhaps after the NCAA Tournament. Don't want to rush into anything.
I thought Andy Fales and Jeriann Ritter did a great job switching jobs this week. I just never know where I'll see Andy next on channel 13, and that's a good thing.
I got sucked into American Idol again. How did that happen? I'm not proud.
U23D won't arrive this weekend as expected. I'm bummed. My buddy Ryan says it's amazing.
I looked in on Sean Keeler and Randy Peterson's chat on the Register's website. It's a good idea and interesting. Contrary to some opinions, Sean is not for Iowa and against Iowa State or vice-versa. Both sides make that same accusation, and it's one to which I can relate. Randy has done a nice job for decades.
Herbie Hancock won the Grammy for album of the year? You've got to be kidding. At least it makes me think of Tommy Boy.
Did you see where Pat Knight recommended Steve Alford? If there's one place Alford might be as worshiped as he thinks he should, it's Indiana. However, with each passing year, fewer kids, even in the Hoosier State know who Alford is/was. So it comes down to coaching, and Steve's not bad, but he's not good either. Indiana demands more than mediocre, but the Hoosiers shouldn't have sold their souls for Sampson. They got what they deserve.
How proud were you to see your tax dollars at work in that Clemens vs. McNamee circus? McNamee's a weasel, but I think it's pretty obvious he's finally telling the truth about Clemens. Everyone else McNamee says he injected with HGH or steroids backs the weasel. Clemens looked horrible as he tried to keep his stories straight. What a shame he didn't just do what Pettitte and Giambi did. Admit, apologize, help others. We love to forgive people in this country.
Any final shred of hope I held out for Roger telling the truth disappeared when he claimed he had no idea McNamee was injecting Clemens' wife with HGH! And then when Roger's wife 'fessed up and complained of circulation problems, Roger didn't send her to the doctor. He didn't beat up McNamee. He didn't even fire McNamee. Give me a break.
The most embarrassing part of watching all that waste of our money at work was some of the politicians falling all over themselves to try and help their "hero". Why did even this become partisan politics? Because Clemens is good friends with the Bush family? Aren't we better than this? Riveting theater, but disgusting at the same time.
If you ever wondered why the former Cyclone Stadium is now Jack Trice Stadium, please read:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blackhistory2008/news/story?id=3242390
I know some coaches think a loss is never a good thing, but it probably is for Drake. I don't think the Dogs ever got too caught up or too cocky, but it's a good reminder before the tournaments start. When you haven't lost in three months, you forget how bad it feels. (I guess you do. I never played for a team that went very long without losing, so this is conjecture on my part.)
Which TV personality makes you hit the mute or turn the channel? I'm not very critical when it comes to other sportscasters because I truly appreciate how hard the job can be, not to mention I've received my share of mail from people who can't stand me on sight. That kind of thing doesn't bother some people; it does me. Anyway, maybe he's a nice guy, I have no idea, but ESPN's Stephen A. Smith is a channel-changer for me. My Dad has two: Chris Berman and Stuart Scott. My mom can't take Katie Couric.
I just received a book for my review: Buff Dad. Chris and Shawn are having a field day with this one. The book says moms aren't the only ones to gain weight when kids come along, so Buff Dad promises it can whip me into tip-tip shape in four weeks. First Basedow, now this.
Maybe I'll start tomorrow. No, March. Well, perhaps after the NCAA Tournament. Don't want to rush into anything.
I thought Andy Fales and Jeriann Ritter did a great job switching jobs this week. I just never know where I'll see Andy next on channel 13, and that's a good thing.
I got sucked into American Idol again. How did that happen? I'm not proud.
U23D won't arrive this weekend as expected. I'm bummed. My buddy Ryan says it's amazing.
I looked in on Sean Keeler and Randy Peterson's chat on the Register's website. It's a good idea and interesting. Contrary to some opinions, Sean is not for Iowa and against Iowa State or vice-versa. Both sides make that same accusation, and it's one to which I can relate. Randy has done a nice job for decades.
Herbie Hancock won the Grammy for album of the year? You've got to be kidding. At least it makes me think of Tommy Boy.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
"Wrestlers... Clear the Mats!" It's time. The country's best state wrestling tournament starts Wednesday. If you're looking for a great book, check out Four Days to Glory. If you're looking for Matthew Modine and Madonna, check out Vision Quest. Tell Steve Perry I said hello.
I spent some time interviewing several of the key Bulldogs: Keno Davis, Leonard Houston, Klayton Korver, and Josh Young. I couldn't be more impressed. These guys give you unrehearsed, un-coached answers---a rarity these days. Their excitement and enthusiasm is contagious. The Dogs are having a blast, and they're fortunate to have a coach who isn't trying to scare them out of having fun. Keno's telling his players to enjoy every minute of the incredible ride. It's also apparent that you can win with true student-athletes. These guys aren't headed to the NBA, and if you've watched any of the stories on Drake, you know they didn't come to school to major in pro basketball.
After taking a beating on the feedback of this blog for saying Keno Davis was the mid-season national coach of the year, I was happy to see Dick Vitale call Keno the front-runner for the end of the season honor, while USA Today named Davis as one of four candidates in the running. He should be.
Drake has a tough stretch the next two weeks, and if they can win three out of five, it would be impressive. We'll know a lot after the Southern Illinois game. The Salukis are 59-1 at home against MVC opponents since the 2001-2002 season.
Did you see both Villanova and Rutgers (women) get hosed by bad calls in the closing seconds on the same night? Vivian Stringer had the meanest look this side of Gene Keady (but without the comb-over).
Props to Johnston's Lori Bjork. The former Dragon just scored her 1000th point at the U of Illinois.
From the can't make it up department: Dolly Parton postponed her tour due to back pain.
I missed Andy Fales on 95KGGO Tuesday morning. I heard I missed an entertaining show with Lou, Round Guy, and Heather, though I still find it hard to believe Andy woke up before 7.
Purdue leads the Big Ten. I can't believe that. I was in Vegas and saw Iowa State beat the Boilers. Those two teams have gone in different directions.
It's great that both Hilton Coliseum and Carver-Hawkeye Arena will host the NCAA Women's tourney, but that means in 2009 and 2010, we'll need a local team to do well. As Drake found out one year, if there's no team from Iowa, there's nobody in the stands.
Who would win a fight between Kurt Busch and Tony Stewart? We may find out but my money's on Tony.
Who would win a fight between a taco and a grilled cheese sandwich?
Movies I'm looking forward to "Netflixing": Gone Baby Gone, The Assassination of Jesse James, and We Own The Night.
Lincoln led just one time against Urbandale in the showdown of conference champions. And it was the only time that mattered. 33-31 Rails, which sounds like a score from my dad's playing days. I think they jumped center after every field goal, though I don't think they had to take the ball out of a peach basket.
I spent some time interviewing several of the key Bulldogs: Keno Davis, Leonard Houston, Klayton Korver, and Josh Young. I couldn't be more impressed. These guys give you unrehearsed, un-coached answers---a rarity these days. Their excitement and enthusiasm is contagious. The Dogs are having a blast, and they're fortunate to have a coach who isn't trying to scare them out of having fun. Keno's telling his players to enjoy every minute of the incredible ride. It's also apparent that you can win with true student-athletes. These guys aren't headed to the NBA, and if you've watched any of the stories on Drake, you know they didn't come to school to major in pro basketball.
After taking a beating on the feedback of this blog for saying Keno Davis was the mid-season national coach of the year, I was happy to see Dick Vitale call Keno the front-runner for the end of the season honor, while USA Today named Davis as one of four candidates in the running. He should be.
Drake has a tough stretch the next two weeks, and if they can win three out of five, it would be impressive. We'll know a lot after the Southern Illinois game. The Salukis are 59-1 at home against MVC opponents since the 2001-2002 season.
Did you see both Villanova and Rutgers (women) get hosed by bad calls in the closing seconds on the same night? Vivian Stringer had the meanest look this side of Gene Keady (but without the comb-over).
Props to Johnston's Lori Bjork. The former Dragon just scored her 1000th point at the U of Illinois.
From the can't make it up department: Dolly Parton postponed her tour due to back pain.
I missed Andy Fales on 95KGGO Tuesday morning. I heard I missed an entertaining show with Lou, Round Guy, and Heather, though I still find it hard to believe Andy woke up before 7.
Purdue leads the Big Ten. I can't believe that. I was in Vegas and saw Iowa State beat the Boilers. Those two teams have gone in different directions.
It's great that both Hilton Coliseum and Carver-Hawkeye Arena will host the NCAA Women's tourney, but that means in 2009 and 2010, we'll need a local team to do well. As Drake found out one year, if there's no team from Iowa, there's nobody in the stands.
Who would win a fight between Kurt Busch and Tony Stewart? We may find out but my money's on Tony.
Who would win a fight between a taco and a grilled cheese sandwich?
Movies I'm looking forward to "Netflixing": Gone Baby Gone, The Assassination of Jesse James, and We Own The Night.
Lincoln led just one time against Urbandale in the showdown of conference champions. And it was the only time that mattered. 33-31 Rails, which sounds like a score from my dad's playing days. I think they jumped center after every field goal, though I don't think they had to take the ball out of a peach basket.
Monday, February 11, 2008
The new Rambo is the most violent movie I've ever seen. And I've seen a lot of movies. I can't believe how brutal it is. If a movie ever inched close to an X-rating for mayhem, this is it. Hundreds of people, including women and children, are blown up, burned, stabbed, gutted, beheaded, hanged, gunned down, and in one case, killed by throat-ripping. The action is tense, the storyline compelling, and the character, Rambo, interesting, but my goodness, it's hard to watch. I really liked First Blood, and thought the sequels were silly but entertaining, but I didn't have the stomach for Rambo. I'm still trying to shake it. I'll grade it a C.
To my surprise, I actually enjoyed The Devils Wears Prada more than Rambo. I rented this for Jenny because Shawn Terrell made it sound like a chick flick a guy could tolerate. (Actually, I think Shawn watched it by himself, but that's beside the point). Devil has a Pretty Woman vibe, minus the prostitution. Meryl Streep, as always, is phenomenal. B+
I didn't like The Brave One as much as I expected, but the mild-mannered woman turned vigilante movie is worth seeing for Jodie Foster and Terrence Howard. They're both better than the mixed message of the story. B
I watched 3:10 to Yuma again. If you love Westerns, and even if you don't, make sure you see this. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale are top notch. (How is it possible Bale has 0 Academy Award nominations?). I'll upgrade this from A- to A upon a third viewing.
That concludes tonight's Murph at the Movies. (the title forced me to refer to myself in the third person. Don't worry, Keith Murphy will not refer to himself as Keith Murphy).
To my surprise, I actually enjoyed The Devils Wears Prada more than Rambo. I rented this for Jenny because Shawn Terrell made it sound like a chick flick a guy could tolerate. (Actually, I think Shawn watched it by himself, but that's beside the point). Devil has a Pretty Woman vibe, minus the prostitution. Meryl Streep, as always, is phenomenal. B+
I didn't like The Brave One as much as I expected, but the mild-mannered woman turned vigilante movie is worth seeing for Jodie Foster and Terrence Howard. They're both better than the mixed message of the story. B
I watched 3:10 to Yuma again. If you love Westerns, and even if you don't, make sure you see this. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale are top notch. (How is it possible Bale has 0 Academy Award nominations?). I'll upgrade this from A- to A upon a third viewing.
That concludes tonight's Murph at the Movies. (the title forced me to refer to myself in the third person. Don't worry, Keith Murphy will not refer to himself as Keith Murphy).
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
To honor the incredible success of the Drake Bulldogs---20 straight wins and counting---Ithought I'd drop a few pictures of great Drake basketball moments throughout history into my blog this week. Hope you enjoy.
Andy and Shawn made it back from Normal, Illinois. After calling twice to tell me they couldn't believe how many cars they had passed in the ditch, they called me to tell me they were now in the ditch. Fortunately some nice people from Urbandale took pity on our stranded travelers and drove them the final two hours to Des Moines. Shawn and Andy even made it to Wells Fargo Arena for the first Van Halen song.
Sammy or David Lee? I'd rather listen to Sammy and see Diamond Dave in concert.
College football signing day does nothing for me. You just never know what you have until several years later, and every coach says they "really like their class".
Iowa State would be a much better basketball team this season with Lucca Staiger. The guy can flat out shoot the three like you can't believe, and the Clones need that threat desperately.
Leave Britney alone.
It's good to have Dick Vitale back, even if he is a little quieter.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
You don't have to buy Drake merchandise, or openly root for the Bulldogs, but how can anyone not respect this team? It's unbelievable.
I thought the streak would come to an end at Illinois State. At halftime, I felt smart. By game's end, I was glad to be wrong. These guys won't quit. Down 11? No problem. Just keep hustling until the shots start falling.
Anyone who doesn't appreciate just how hard it is to win 20 straight---regardless of the conference strength---doesn't follow college basketball. 20 in a row is staggering for an overly talented team. For a squad that starts two former walk-ons, it's beyond comprehension. During this great run, Drake could have lost to any team it played.
Several of the people in our newsroom who don't follow sports have taken an interest in Drake because the Bulldogs humility and positive spirit is contagious. They're not cocky, they're having fun.
The Dogs all but locked up a conference championship with the sweep of Illinois State. Drake leads by four with six games to go.
By the way, great job Tuesday night by Andy Fales, Shawn Terrell, photojournalist Trent Reicks, and engineer Mark Hoffman. They drove through a snowstorm to bring our viewers terrific coverage of a big game not on TV. Wake up Missouri Valley! This is 2008.
It's nice to have such a positive story to cover.
We love it. And Iowa State should too. Maybe no one will notice how Hilton Magic seems to have left the building.
I thought the streak would come to an end at Illinois State. At halftime, I felt smart. By game's end, I was glad to be wrong. These guys won't quit. Down 11? No problem. Just keep hustling until the shots start falling.
Anyone who doesn't appreciate just how hard it is to win 20 straight---regardless of the conference strength---doesn't follow college basketball. 20 in a row is staggering for an overly talented team. For a squad that starts two former walk-ons, it's beyond comprehension. During this great run, Drake could have lost to any team it played.
Several of the people in our newsroom who don't follow sports have taken an interest in Drake because the Bulldogs humility and positive spirit is contagious. They're not cocky, they're having fun.
The Dogs all but locked up a conference championship with the sweep of Illinois State. Drake leads by four with six games to go.
By the way, great job Tuesday night by Andy Fales, Shawn Terrell, photojournalist Trent Reicks, and engineer Mark Hoffman. They drove through a snowstorm to bring our viewers terrific coverage of a big game not on TV. Wake up Missouri Valley! This is 2008.
It's nice to have such a positive story to cover.
We love it. And Iowa State should too. Maybe no one will notice how Hilton Magic seems to have left the building.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Bob Knight retired mid-season. Why? He wants his son, Pat, to be the next Keno.
Knight was a great coach, especially in the 70s and 80s. He could teach the game of basketball like no other. It's too bad his boorish behavior often overshadowed his genius---and even his well hidden soft side.
99% of Knight's players swear by him, even if he swore at them.
Drake ranked 15th in the country!? Miss Clio didn't see that coming.
Drake's BracketBuster is at Butler's Hinkle Fieldhouse. That's got road trip written all over it. Anyone who's seen the final game in "Hoosiers" needs to visit the site of Jimmy Chitwood's buzzer-beating jumper.
I hope Wesley Johnson can play against Texas A&M or it could be a long night for the Cyclones.
Super Bowl XLII goes down as the most watched TV show in American history next to... M*A*S*H. I love Mash. My dad got me hooked on it, and my son, Cody, loves it---but we'll never again see the day where a scripted show draws 100 million people.
I suppose I deserve Erin showing that highly embarrassing picture of me posing as if I were a cross behind The Bandit and Ron Burgundy. I know I showed pictures of Erin cheering the Bulldogs in blue Spandex. But Erin looked good. I just look goofy. It's not a fair trade! Blog with one eye open Erin Kiernan.
Knight was a great coach, especially in the 70s and 80s. He could teach the game of basketball like no other. It's too bad his boorish behavior often overshadowed his genius---and even his well hidden soft side.
99% of Knight's players swear by him, even if he swore at them.
Drake ranked 15th in the country!? Miss Clio didn't see that coming.
Drake's BracketBuster is at Butler's Hinkle Fieldhouse. That's got road trip written all over it. Anyone who's seen the final game in "Hoosiers" needs to visit the site of Jimmy Chitwood's buzzer-beating jumper.
I hope Wesley Johnson can play against Texas A&M or it could be a long night for the Cyclones.
Super Bowl XLII goes down as the most watched TV show in American history next to... M*A*S*H. I love Mash. My dad got me hooked on it, and my son, Cody, loves it---but we'll never again see the day where a scripted show draws 100 million people.
I suppose I deserve Erin showing that highly embarrassing picture of me posing as if I were a cross behind The Bandit and Ron Burgundy. I know I showed pictures of Erin cheering the Bulldogs in blue Spandex. But Erin looked good. I just look goofy. It's not a fair trade! Blog with one eye open Erin Kiernan.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Oops. Got that one wrong.
I thought the Patriots would win, and finally silence those '72 Dolphins. Didn't happen. The Giants pulled one of the all-time upsets, and deserved to win. They outplayed the Patriots. Period.
I think that was the most exciting Super Bowl I've ever seen, mostly because the stakes were so high and the underdog won.
Maybe karma finally found the Patriots. After all, they did cheat.
Iowa State's Ellis Hobbs received a lot of pub this season, most of it good, but he'll now be seen forever getting burned by Plaxico Burress on the game-winning touchdown.
I thought overall the ads were so-so, though Will Ferrell made me laugh out loud, as usual.
I thought the Patriots would win, and finally silence those '72 Dolphins. Didn't happen. The Giants pulled one of the all-time upsets, and deserved to win. They outplayed the Patriots. Period.
I think that was the most exciting Super Bowl I've ever seen, mostly because the stakes were so high and the underdog won.
Maybe karma finally found the Patriots. After all, they did cheat.
Iowa State's Ellis Hobbs received a lot of pub this season, most of it good, but he'll now be seen forever getting burned by Plaxico Burress on the game-winning touchdown.
I thought overall the ads were so-so, though Will Ferrell made me laugh out loud, as usual.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Casey Blake is the most down-to-earth six million dollar man you'll ever meet. He still lives in Indianola, just opened The Yard with this brother, and signed a new one year deal with the Indians. Good guy.
The Drake critics are starting to surface. Yes, Drake's schedule is soft, but 18 wins in a row is impressive no matter who you play. If it were no big deal, Drake wouldn't have the nation's second longest streak. It's arguably even more impressive because the Bulldogs have won so many close games. It's a lot easier to run off long winning streaks when most teams you play are overmatched (see Memphis and Kansas).
I'm glad Wesley Johnson's foot shows no structural damage. He's fun to watch, and Iowa State can't afford to lose him for long.
Imagine what Todd Lickliter will do when he has more Big Ten caliber talent.
The Hawkeye wrestling program has its swagger back. Credit Tom Brands.
Big thanks to the anonymous Drake fan who watched SoundOFF and then donated 2,000 T-shirts. The White Out was a huge success. Andy Fales hasn't worked that hard in a while.
Speaking of thanks for anonymous contributions... I owe someone BIG TIME for those fun pictures of Erin Kiernan back in her Drake Bulldog cheerleader days. Unlike my old college pics, Erin looked good, not embarrassing. I think this also confirms we can't expect objectivity from her (at least where Drake basketball's concerned).
The Super Bowl spread is 12. Look for the Patriots to win by more than that.
Friday Night Lights has its mojo back.
The Drake critics are starting to surface. Yes, Drake's schedule is soft, but 18 wins in a row is impressive no matter who you play. If it were no big deal, Drake wouldn't have the nation's second longest streak. It's arguably even more impressive because the Bulldogs have won so many close games. It's a lot easier to run off long winning streaks when most teams you play are overmatched (see Memphis and Kansas).
I'm glad Wesley Johnson's foot shows no structural damage. He's fun to watch, and Iowa State can't afford to lose him for long.
Imagine what Todd Lickliter will do when he has more Big Ten caliber talent.
The Hawkeye wrestling program has its swagger back. Credit Tom Brands.
Big thanks to the anonymous Drake fan who watched SoundOFF and then donated 2,000 T-shirts. The White Out was a huge success. Andy Fales hasn't worked that hard in a while.
Speaking of thanks for anonymous contributions... I owe someone BIG TIME for those fun pictures of Erin Kiernan back in her Drake Bulldog cheerleader days. Unlike my old college pics, Erin looked good, not embarrassing. I think this also confirms we can't expect objectivity from her (at least where Drake basketball's concerned).
The Super Bowl spread is 12. Look for the Patriots to win by more than that.
Friday Night Lights has its mojo back.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
How can you not jump on the Drake bandwagon? This team is improving the mood of Iowans everywhere. It's positive. It's exciting. And it's contagious.
If you just can't get enough Drake coverage, check out http://wesleyvaclav.blogspot.com/
Ron Maly keeps the Bulldog stories coming.
Why not name the Iowa State court for the godfather of Hilton Magic, Johnny Orr. "The Orr Floor" sounds right to me.
Roger Clemens looks more guilty and more desperate each time he tries another unconvincing PR move. His latest press release supposedly pointed out that many great pitchers continued their excellence past the age of 40. One big problem: five of the pitchers named never pitched past age 39 and collectively they faded fast in their late thirties.
Best anecdote of the week... NFL legend Gale Sayers asking Heather Burnside if she knew a good place to get a manicure and pedicure. Gale always did have style.
After watching Sayers' do a great job at the Rally Against Cancer, and being reminded of his greatness on and off the field, I watched both versions of Brian's Song. The original is a classic. A little dated now, but you can't beat the banter between James Caan and Billy Dee Williams. The 2001 remake is also good, though it's jarring when you see and hear the same scenes reenacted. Ways the remake improved on the original: giving more time to the wives, showing Brian Piccolo's daughters, and seeing Picollo's physical deteriation. In the original, Caan looked nearly the same on his deathbed. I cried watching both. Great story.
When the Brian's Song remake aired in 2001, I was working, and without thinking, I called Larry Cotlar in the movie's final few minutes. Cotman, I still owe you for doing that. There's no excuse. Don't you hate that when you're completely into something and the phone rings. (I better not ask for examples.)
Have you seen that creepy ESPN commercial for College Gameday? The one where the people in the hot tub have tiny heads on their shoulders? Weird.
The best sports book I've read in a long time is God Save the Fan. It skewers four things: players, owners, media, and fans. We all have it coming.
Thumbs up to Tim Dwight for going to Iraq to spend time with our troops. Great job, Tim.
And finally, thank you for all the congratulations on my marriage to Jenny. I truly appreciate your goodwill. It's been a few months now, and I've never been happier or felt more blessed. I realize how lucky I am. We're like the Brady Bunch, only with all boys. Pray for us.
Take care.
Keith
If you just can't get enough Drake coverage, check out http://wesleyvaclav.blogspot.com/
Ron Maly keeps the Bulldog stories coming.
Why not name the Iowa State court for the godfather of Hilton Magic, Johnny Orr. "The Orr Floor" sounds right to me.
Roger Clemens looks more guilty and more desperate each time he tries another unconvincing PR move. His latest press release supposedly pointed out that many great pitchers continued their excellence past the age of 40. One big problem: five of the pitchers named never pitched past age 39 and collectively they faded fast in their late thirties.
Best anecdote of the week... NFL legend Gale Sayers asking Heather Burnside if she knew a good place to get a manicure and pedicure. Gale always did have style.
After watching Sayers' do a great job at the Rally Against Cancer, and being reminded of his greatness on and off the field, I watched both versions of Brian's Song. The original is a classic. A little dated now, but you can't beat the banter between James Caan and Billy Dee Williams. The 2001 remake is also good, though it's jarring when you see and hear the same scenes reenacted. Ways the remake improved on the original: giving more time to the wives, showing Brian Piccolo's daughters, and seeing Picollo's physical deteriation. In the original, Caan looked nearly the same on his deathbed. I cried watching both. Great story.
When the Brian's Song remake aired in 2001, I was working, and without thinking, I called Larry Cotlar in the movie's final few minutes. Cotman, I still owe you for doing that. There's no excuse. Don't you hate that when you're completely into something and the phone rings. (I better not ask for examples.)
Have you seen that creepy ESPN commercial for College Gameday? The one where the people in the hot tub have tiny heads on their shoulders? Weird.
The best sports book I've read in a long time is God Save the Fan. It skewers four things: players, owners, media, and fans. We all have it coming.
Thumbs up to Tim Dwight for going to Iraq to spend time with our troops. Great job, Tim.
And finally, thank you for all the congratulations on my marriage to Jenny. I truly appreciate your goodwill. It's been a few months now, and I've never been happier or felt more blessed. I realize how lucky I am. We're like the Brady Bunch, only with all boys. Pray for us.
Take care.
Keith
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