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Home > ajcsportstalk > Archives > 2008 > January
January 2008
Desperate times, desperate measures
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
And as the Atlanta Hawks slip further down in the standings and possibly out of the NBA playoff picture, how much more desperate can things get?
Nothing - not the Hawks’ 1-4 record on this regretful western road trip the just ended, and not their 4-11 record in the month of January - points to progress. So tough decisions must be made.
Should the team consider replacing head coach Mike Woodson?
Should the team consider packaging one or more of the team’s so-called “untouchables” (Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams) in a trade to infuse the team with new and/or better talents?
Or should the team take a whatever-it-takes mentality to acquire Jason Kidd, who’s requested to be traded from the New Jersey Nets and will be in town Saturday to showcase his wily skills at Philips Arena.
What would you like to see happen with the team? Do you think everything should remain the same? After all, the Hawks WOULD make the playoffs if the season ended today.
Let us know what you think.
Your thoughts on Santana to Mets
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As a fan of the Braves, what do you think about the Mets’ potential acquisition of All-Star pitcher Johan Santana?
The Mets have already finished ahead of the Braves in the NL East the last two seasons, and picking up a dominant lefthander for the top of the pitching rotation would only make them stronger. Are you concerned that the Braves, despite picking up future Hall of Famer Tom Glavine in the offseason, will have enough pitching to compete with the Mets?
Better yet, will the Braves’ offense be able to contend with a rotation that could include Santana and Pedro Martinez as the top two starters?
The Santana deal hasn’t been completed yet, but it’s apparently close to being done. So Braves fans, what do you think about the move?
Giving “Moving Van” new meaning
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
When it comes to Brian VanGorder, what goes around certainly comes around.
The former Falcons linebackers coach is returning to the staff _ after a mere month away _ to be Atlanta’s defensive coordinator under new head coach Mike Smith.
In the interim, VanGorder had signed on to be defensive coordinator of Steve Spurrier’s South Carolina Gamecocks. And he’d professed to the press that the college realm was where he felt he belonged.
So much for that sentiment. (Imagine how thrilled Spurrier must be with this happening so close to National Signing Day.)
Are you sad or glad to see VanGorder back in the Falcons fold? Do you get the sense that he’s truly committed to the team, or that VanGorder’s using this stint as yet another brief step toward advancing his own career?
Moreover, is VanGorder a good enough coach to come in an bolster one of the NFL’s most porous defenses?
Sound off here.
Permalink | Comments (123) | Categories: Falcons
Mr. Smith goes to Flowery Branch?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mike who?
That’s the question plenty of Falcons fans will be asking now that Jacksonville defensive coordinator Mike Smith has accepted an offer to be Atlanta’s next head football coach.
Does anyone besides new Falcons GM Tom Dimitroff know enough about this guy to form an educated opinion of whether he’s the right pick for the job?
Or, as a Falcons fan, do you just reconcile yourself to the fact that the NFL pickings are slim and that Smith may merely be the best option available?
How do you feel about this direction the franchise is apparently taking?
Sound off here.
Permalink | Comments (265) | Categories: Falcons
Has Golfweek gone too far?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The spectre of the noose has now raised its ugly head on the cover of a major sports publication.
The cover of the Jan. 19 issue of Golfweek magazine shows a noose dangling against an ominous purple backdrop. The issue’s cover story focuses on the two-week suspension of Golf Channel announcer Kelly Tilghman for a racially insensitive statement she made about Tiger Woods on a Jan. 4 telecast.
“Lynch him in a back alley,” is what Tilghman said.
She issued a formal apology two days later. And a week after her off-the-cuff comment about Woods’ seeming invicibility, Tilghman got the suspension without pay.
On Woods’ behalf, his agent Mark Steinberg, referred to the “lynch” comment as a “complete non-issue” But that didn’t stop a national uproard _ and calls for Tilghman to be fired _ from occuring.
In fact, the Golfweek cover story does little but rehash how the controversy played out. Tilghman herself declined comment for the cover story.
Golfweek editor Dave Seanor all but admitted to USA Today that placing a noose on the magazine cover was done for shock value saying: “Was it an arresting image? Yes, it was…We chose it because it was an image we thought would draw attention to an issue we thought deserved some intelligent dialogue.”
In response to Golfweek’s “noose” cover, PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem issued a statement that read, in part: “[W]e consider Golfweek’s imagery of a swinging noose on its cover to be outrageous and irresponsible. It smacks of tabloid journalism. It was a naked attempt to inflame and keep alive an incident that was heading to an appropriate conclusion.”
But was it really? Woods is scheduled to play in next week’s Buick Invitational and is certain to be asked to comment on Tilghman’s words and punishment. Some references to racial insensitivity may arise again in April, when the world focuses on The Masters Tournament at Augusta National, where women are not allowed as members and minorities have only recently been granted memberships.
What do you think? Does a noose as a cover image have any editorial merit to it? Or has Golfweek done Woods, Tilghman and sports journalism a disservice?
Permalink | Comments (48) | Categories: Sports media
Will Falcons turn to Ryan?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It has been reported that Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett and Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan are the two candidates that have had two interviews for the Falcons’ head coaching position.
Garrett has decided to stay with the Cowboys , presumably leaving Ryan as the leader in the clubhouse to become the franchise’s next head coach - or is it?
As a Falcons fan, do you think the organization should hire Ryan, whose dad is the colorful ex-NFL coach Buddy Ryan? Or should they continue the interview process and not rush to judgement?
Let us know what you think, and give us some candidates you think the team should consider.
Permalink | Comments (76) | Categories: NFL
Danielson’s pick: UGA No. 6
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
CBS college football analyst Gary Danielson is the latest to weigh in with his early forecast for the 2008 season, and his prediction is not likely to please UGA fans.
The former NFL quarterback picks the Dogs sixth behind USC, Florida, Oklahoma, Missouri and Ohio State. “Great fast team, but a brutal schedule,” Danielson said of the Dogs.
What do you think of Danielson’s forecast? Better yet, is it too early for Danielson or anyone to look ahead to next season?
Let us know what you think.
Goodbye, Richmond. Hello, Gwinnett.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Braves are moving the AAA affiliate from Richmond to Gwinnett County. The Richmond Braves, the organization’s highest-level minor-league affiliate, could play in Gwinnett as soon as 2009.
The Braves’ three-year contract at the Richmond, Va. stadium, known as The Diamond, expires following the 2010 season. However, there is an option to pull out after each season. The Braves must give notice on or before Oct. 1 each year.
What do you think of this major move? Will you head out to Gwinnett to check out the AAA squad when they arrive?
Read more about it: Story
Permalink | Comments (144) | Categories: Braves
Images from a wild weekend
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The sight of Terrell Owens crying at the press conference following Dallas’ loss to the Giants Sunday capped an interesting weekend of images from the NFL Divisional Playoffs.
It began Saturday with Brett Favre tossing passes - and snowballs - and Ryan Grant navigating through the snow as the Packers defeated Seattle. Tom Brady followed with a near-perfect passing performance as the Patriots won again, defeating Jacksonville for their 17th straight win.
There were several heroes in San Diego’s win over the Colts Sunday. Billy Volek came off the bench to direct the eventual game-winning drive in the fourth quarter. Michael Turner subbed for an injured LaDanian Tomlinson.
Then there was the image of Peyton Manning grimacing after his final pass to Dallas Clark fell incomplete. And injured Chargers QB Phillip Rivers trash-talking with a Colts fan after the outcome was secured.
Last, but not least, the Cowboys became the first No. 1 seed to lose since the league went to its current playoff format 18 years ago. The post-game focus might have been on T.O., but the Giants’ defense and the efficient play of QB Eli Manning were the keys during the game.
What did you remember most about the weekend? Were you surprised at any of the outcomes? Who do you like in the conference championship games?
Let us know what you think.
Permalink | Comments (8) | Categories: NFL
FanFest not FanFriendly?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Braves held their team FanFest this past weekend at the Georgia World Congress Center. The event served as an opportunity for fans to interact with players and coaches, and the event proved to be a big success.
In the eyes of some fans, a little too successful.
Long lines seemed to be the norm at the event and some fans walked away extremely unhappy after not being able to secure an autograph from their favorite player.
Did you attend FanFest? How was your experience? Did you or your children get a chance to interact with players?
Let us know about your experience.
Kotsay for Devine right move?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Braves are sending pitcher Joey Devine to Oakland in exchange for center fielder Mark Kotsay.
Joey Devine, a former first-round draft pick who has bounced between Atlanta and the minors the last three years has been projected as a possible major league closer. Devine struggled with control early in his career but posted a 1.08 ERA in 10 games last season and had 20 saves in the minors.
Oakland will reportedly assume a large portion Kotsay’s $7.325 million salary. That’s a good thing, since he may be a temporary fill-in until top-prospect Jordan Schaefer is ready to patrol the Ted.
Are the Braves giving up to much for a one-year rental?
Permalink | Comments (135) | Categories: Braves
What to expect from new Falcons GM?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Falcons’ new general manager will be the New England Patriots’ director of college scouting Tom Dimitroff.
Dimitroff, who will replace Rich McKay, will get to hire the new head coach.
Dimitroff, 40, is a highly respected talent evaluator who has worked under Bill Belichick and the Patriots’ Scott Pioli.
You knew what Bill Parcells brought to the table, what do we really know about Tom Dimitroff?
The Falcons interviewed him via satellite.
What are your expectations of Dimitroff? How to think he should begin to reshape this franchise? Do you believe he was the right choice?
Permalink | Comments (215) | Categories: Falcons
Can Patriots continue win streak?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Locally, the NFL news has centered around the Falcons’ search for a coach and general manager. The search seems to take a disappointing turn each day with big names reportedly withdrawing from consideration day after day.
Nationally, the news has centered on the Divisional Playoffs with eight teams still in the hunt for Super Bowl XLII. The AFC games match unbeaten New England against upstart Jacksonville and Indianapolis, last year’s Super Bowl champion, against San Diego.
In the NFC, it’s Dallas vs. the New York Giants and Green Bay vs. Seattle. There seems to be an interesting storyline connected to each game - will the Patriots continue to win, why isn’t Indianapolis getting any respect, will Romo be affected by his quick Mexican getaway with Jessica Simpson and can Favre do it again.
The home teams are New England, Indianapolis, Dallas and Green Bay, but don’t forget that two home teams lost in this same round of the playoffs last year. Who are your picks this weekend? Let us know and explain why they will win.
Permalink | Comments (8) | Categories: NFL
You must be “Joshing”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sure, Joe Johnson’s team-leading 29 points in nearly 45 minutes of play was crucial in the Hawks’ defeat of LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers Wednesday night. There’s no player on the squad that Atlanta rallies around more than their All-Star guard.
But check the stat sheet, and notice what swingman Josh Childress accomplished in his 25 minutes coming off the bench. Twelve points on 4-for-4 shooting from the field and 4-of-5 free throws. Five rebounds. Three assists.
All of that contributed mightily to Atlanta’s nine-point margin of victory. Besides Childress, the only other points coming from reserves against Cleveland were the three scored by Acie Law.
So, Hawks fans, are you secure in knowing you’ve got a solid sixth man, or what? Do you like the role Childress is playing? Or, for the Hawks to stay at or above .500, does he need to do more?
Don’t just savor the victory. Sound off
Permalink | Comments (19) | Categories: Hawks
How would you fix the BCS?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
University of Georgia President Michael Adams is advocating an eight team, seven-game, single-elimination tournament run by the NCAA, using four of current BCS bowls as the quarterfinals.
The plan has been met with sheer enthuthiasm and skepticism.
Fourteen of 30 university presidents contacted by the AJC flat-out reject the idea, with only five embracing it.
What’s your take? Yea or nay? Have you got a better plan?
Permalink | Comments (110) | Categories: College sports, UGA
Is LeBron really “Le Best”?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Does LeBron James’ mere presence at Philips Arena tonight make the Hawks vs. Cavaliers a “must-see” game?
In other words, has the stature of “King James” risen to the point where he — like Michael Jordan could — can take sole credit for packing a house?
James currently leads the NBA in scoring (29.2 points per game), with the likes of Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade trailing by two points per game or more.
Does that alone make him the league’s best player?
LeBron has set several records during his short NBA career, and he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Eastern Conference title last season. But it can be argued that he’s no better than Kevin Garnett or Tim Duncan.
In your opinion, is LeBron truly the NBA’s marquee player? If not, then who is?
Let us know what you think and we’ll track opinions right up until tonight’s tip-off.
Permalink | Comments (32) | Categories: Hawks
Who do you want to see at FanFest?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Braves’ 2008 FanFest this weekend at the Georgia World Congress Center will feature a littany of Braves players and coaches along with player-led clinics, home run derbies, and T-ball challenges on two indoor baseball fields.
Among the players scheduled to appear are John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Chipper Jones, Jeff Francoeur, Brian McCann and Mark Teixeira.
So who are you most excited to see? Or are you even excited at all?
Permalink | Comments (44) | Categories: Braves
Adams’ plan: What do you think?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s what Michael Adams is proposing to the NCAA:
• A committee would select and seed the top eight teams.
•Those teams would play in a single-elimination tournament.
• The first round would be the Fiesta, Orange, Rose and Sugar bowls on New Year’s Day.
• The semifinals, at sites to be determined, would be played at least a week later, followed by the championship game on the following Saturday.
What do you think of Adams’ plan? Is it the best possible option? Do you think it has a chance of passing into reality?
Permalink | Comments (201) | Categories: College sports
Clemens gives his side of story
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Roger Clemens has finally given his side of the story after being accused of taking performance-enhancing drugs in the Mitchell Report. And in true Clemens form, he has responded with the fire and fury of a …. Rocket.
Clemens was defiant and emotional throughout his taped interview with ‘60 Minutes’, which aired Sunday night. Clemens has also filed a defamation suit against former trainer Brian McNamee, claiming the statements given by McNamee to baseball drug investigator George Mitchell were “untrue and defamatory.”
Later today, Clemens is scheduled to appear at a live news conference in which he is expected to answer more questions on the subject.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Do you believe Clemens or McNamee? What do you think will happen at today’s news conference?
Permalink | Comments (163) | Categories: Baseball
Name the “Big Game”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Both LSU head coach Les Miles and BCS administrator Bill Hancock remarked this week on how odd it is that college football’s national championship game doesn’t have a catchier moniker.
“We’re all hoping that something evolves — we really are,” Hancock said Thursday. “We got hundreds of suggestions from the public last year, but not so many this year. Maybe people have run out of ideas.
“Names are a funny thing. You could probably hire all the PR folks in the world, and they might come up with a moniker that would be disliked by a lot of people.”
Since classic titles like the Rose Bowl and the Sugar Bowl are already spoken for, what are the alternatives?
If you had the power to bestow a name on the ultimate college football contest, what would you call it?
After all, as Miles commented: “It kind of needs something”.
Permalink | Comments (22) | Categories: College sports
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