Thursday, September 30, 2010

...Death

In the last 2 days there have been 4 deaths that I have heard, sen and read about.


-Tony Curtis: Actor famous for his works in "Sweet Smell of Success," "The Defiant Ones" and "Some Like It Hot." Also father to actress Jamie Lee Curtis, they look alike. He was 85.


-Arthur Penn: Director and Broadway Producer of Bonnie and Clyde, The Miracle Worker, An Evening With Mike Nichols and Elaine May and All the Way Home, just to name a few. He was a very serious man who was influential in the movie industry. He helped introduce sex and violence in movies in a way they had not been done before. He was 88.


-Greg Geraldo: Comedian known for his duties on NBC's "Last Comic Standing" and most notably Comedy Central Roasts. He was found unconscious last Friday in his hotel room after he missed a scheduled appearance in New Jersey. It seemed as if he had an accidental overdose, but it was not a suicide attempt. Greg's family pulled the plug on him after being in a comma for 4 days. He was 44.




-Seth Walsh: Probably the saddest of the deaths is this 13 year old California boy who hanged himself. He was found by kids hanging from a tree, 9 days later he died. He came out to his friends and they started to bully him. Another case of bullying...


-Tyler Clementi: The most recent death is a Rutgers student who committed suicide by jumping off of the George Washington Bridge after his roommate and his roommate's friend posted a live video feed of him having sex with another guy. Apparently Tyler's family did not know he was gay. The roommate sent Tweets and Facebook updates to others sot hat they could watch as well. The 2 students, Dhraun Ravi and Molly Wei, have been charged with invasion of privacy. If found guilty they could face 5 years in prison. More details will be coming out about this in the days to come. He was 18.


As always I will be giving death a Digit Down.

Big Ten Preview Week #5: Big Ten Play Begins

In golf, they call the pre-season the "silly season" because the guys really don't practice they just go to a couple of tournaments play ok and cash a few checks.   For some college football teams, they just finished the silly season.  For others, Big Ten play is their only hope of having a successful year.   This week starts the second or real season for Big Ten schools.  I also like it because I don't have to preview 11 different games.  So it works out for all of us!

Big Ten Game of the Week:

Wisconsin at Michigan State:  When the season began, I would have bet a $1 that the Penn State at Iowa game would be this week's BTGOTW (big ten game of the week) but with Dantonio's mild heart attack (is any heart attack mild?) but returning to coaching in the press box and both teams undefeated, this is clearly the better game.  Both are power teams that like to run the ball.   Both have good running backs and good non-conference wins (ND and ASU).    I think this will be a very close game and believe it or not MSU is a home dog getting 2 points. I usually side with a home team is a close game, but I have a strange feeling that Wisconsin is the better team.  Wisconsin 24 MSU 21


More Big Ten Play:

Northwestern at Minnesota:  The Golden Gophers really need a win and Northwestern is quietly un-defeated this year.   Could Tim Brewster be gone before the end of October?  He could, if the Golden Gophers don't start playing better football.   This is another home dog scenario where Northwestern is giving 5.5 points.   It won't be that close.   Northwestern  28  Minn 14

Ohio State at Illinois:  Illinois has given Ohio State fits in the past but this team lead by Ron Zook doesn't really have much to offer to stop Mr. Pryor and company.   Ohio State always has a Big Ten sleeper game on the road (last year it was Purdue) but not in this game.  Guess what another home dog game:  OSU is favored by 17 points.   Seems about right.  OSU 31 Illinois 10

Penn State at Iowa:  Both team has high hopes for a Big Ten Championship.   Iowa's schedule set up nicely for them being able to host PSU, MSU, and OSU during Big Ten play.  Both teams have already lost a game on the road in 2010.  Penn State got man handled by #1 Alabama and Iowa got down quickly to Arizona and wasn't able to recover.   Penn State's offense will struggle against Iowa's defense.  I see this game as a defensive battle with not a lot of points scored.  Iowa is favored by 7 points.   Iowa 17 Penn State 7

Purdue has a bye.

I will preview the Michigan - IU game on Friday.

A thought to ponder on a Thursday afternoon:  How big would next weeks Michigan - MSU game be if both teams were undefeated?  Story lines:  Dantonio's heart condition, RR trying to beat his instate rival for the first time, two really good running teams,  MSU's first time in the new Big House, and I'm sure there will be a little brother reference or two.  (note: MSU does not play OSU this year)

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

...Facebook

With the highly anticipated movie coming out this Friday, The Social Network, and with the founder, Mark Zuckerberg, giving $100 million to the Newark school area last week on Oprah, a man who has an estimated net worth of $6.9 billion, a new question is being raised, how much is Facebook worth? A couple of years ago Mark's net worth was $1.5 billion and Microsoft estimated that Facebook was worth about $15 billion. Now that employees are selling shares of the company to others on the secondary market, it is estimated that the company may be worth up to $76 a share or $33 billion. This seems a little extreme to me, but it could be possible. Technically Mark Zuckrberg is paper rich, cash poor. The company does not have to go public until more than 500 people have shares of the company, that is what happened to Google, which is worth $529.76 a share. Eventually if not sold Facebook may go public. There is still a chance that a lot of very wealthy private investors and companies will continue to pour money into Facebook until they own mostly all of it. Since the company is not public they do not have to disclose finance records, so no one really knows how much it is worth, everything out is just estimates based on current activity. I could imagine this being one big bust in a few more years. I am giving Facebook a Digit Up because I love the mystery of it all and in the end "the Facebook" will win and Mark Zuckerberg will go home with more than a few pennies to rub together.

Wolverine Mid Week Injury Report

RR had a short and sweet session with the media today and updated us on the status of a couple players. 

Look like Shaw and Toussaint are doubtful to play on Saturday. 

Carvin Johnson and Marvin Robinson injuries are getting better and should play this weekend.  Brandon Herron is also healing at might make it back as well.

Denard Robinson is practicing and will be ready to play at IU.  "He's fine. He did the entire practice yesterday," said Rodriguez. "Everything is good to go. There will be no restrictions whatsoever."

Taylor Lewan will also make his second start and first Big Ten start. 

9/29-Pam McNeely

Pam McNeely - CRN Media Critic
Pam has a unique opinion on TV/Radio/Movies and offers a fresh perspective as the CRN Media Critic at Large. What's Hot and What's Not as well as the inside scoop on the entertainment industry. Pam dishes praise and criticism alike on your favorite shows and actors while telling you why they will be a success or failure. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Is this Team Different Then the 2009 Sqaud?

Everywhere a Michigan player or coach goes these days, there is one question on the mind of Michigan fans:  Is this team better then last years team?  It gets asked by every media member to every player or coach at Michigan. 

Coach Rod doesn't look back and uses his favorite line from the Lion King about the Monkey hitting the Lion and the Lion asking, "Why did you do that?"  The Monkey:  "It doesn't matter it's in the past".  That DVD must be stuck in his player because he dusts that line off a couple times a year. 
The players say, this is a different team.  They have had another year in the system and they are just a lot closer family this year. 

The reason the question gets asked is Michigan has had a lot of similarities between the two years, both teams: started 4-0, had wins over ND, had an early season Heisman trophy candidate, and had higher expectations then before the season started.  The bottom fell out of the 2009 season and Michigan could only muster one more win against a very poor FCS team.  That memory is still fresh in the minds of Michigan fans and many are scared that history could repeat itself.

All of the above is true, but I will give you the real reasons Michigan is better in 2010 then 2009:



#5:  Greg Robinson is coaching the linebackers.   Take away the UMass game and the linebacker play has improved from 2009.

#4: Michigan already has a road win.  Michigan has struggled the past two years on the road under RR and only had one win in two years.  Michigan played well at ND which should give them confidence to play on the road at IU, Penn State, Purdue, and OSU.

#3: Speed on offense.  Remember when Michigan had two QB's that ran a 40 in about 6.0 flat?  The running backs were beat up and Michigan didn't have a deep threat at WR?  Well times have changed and Michigan has depth at all the skill positions and many have contributed in a positive way.  Roy Roundtree is on his way to earning the #1 jersey next year and Darryl Stonum is running by CB's down field.  You get Junior Hemingway back catching the ball and this is one dangerous unit.  (we haven't even mentioned the WR in the freshman class or the true sophomores either)

#2:  Michigan's offensive line is playing very well and there is depth at each position.  Taylor Lewan has had one start under his belt and is already being compared to another famous #77 Jake Long.    David Molk is healthy and leading the charge from his center position.

#1:  Surprise!  It's Denard.  Who has taken college football by storm and is so humble he acts like he doesn't even notice.  He is the perfect combination for a RR QB.  He has personality, fast feet and a strong arm, a defensive coordinators nightmare.   What's interesting about this team is, it's just not Denard.  Michigan has two backups ready to play and play well.  Devin Gardner is a true freshman but has looked good so far and we all know Tate has one of the most accurate arms in all of college football.  Michigan has three guys that can beat you at QB and that is a great feeling for Michigan fans who remember the Sheridan and Threet days.

Sounds good!  What's the catch?

I can't type here and say the defense is better in 2010 with the losses of Brandon Graham, Donovan Warren, and Troy Woolfolk.  Michigan will have to out score some opponents in the Big Ten season and some games might look more like a track meet then a football game.  What I can tell you is, that Greg Robinson does know what he is doing and will do his best putting the Michigan personnel in the proper position to make plays.  Michigan is young pretty much everywhere on defense but I don't feel like we will get out coached on that side of the ball.

Special Teams is a big concern:  Punting has not been good and the field goal kicking has been terrible.  Missing field goals in Big Ten play will cost Michigan a game or two.  The good thing is RR knows this and will be more aggressive in getting first downs then settling for field goals.  Look for Michigan to go for it on a number of 4th downs.  

So there you have it.  Agree or disagree with me, but I now fully expect a bowl game and to be very competitive in games I thought were losses before the season started. 

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

...George Lopez

George Lopez is divorcing his wife Ann after 17 years of marriage. Honestly this is no surprise. There have been multiple reports for years of George cheating on his wife with numerous prostitutes. A rep for George had this to say, "George and Ann Lopez have made the decision to end their 17-year marriage. The decision is amicable and by mutual agreement. They remain dedicated parents, and committed partners in business and their philanthropic organization, The Lopez Foundation." It is said that they have been negotiating the terms of the divorce for a while. Things are tricky because George has his own show, his 2nd one now, and his wife gave him 1 of her kidneys when both of his failed due to a genetic condition in 2005. I am sure there was no pre-nup seeing as they got married in 1993 before he was famous. How much will she get and what will he be left with is unknown, but it is not looking good for him. I am sure she will write a book and end up on Oprah somehow for it. George and his wife probably would have been divorced a few years ago if it were not for the kidney. I am giving George a Digit Down because I truly do believe he cheated on his wife more than once with hookers and whores. Shame on you.

9/28-Tracy Rafter

Tracy Rafter - CEO Bizfed


As the first female publisher in the nearly 100 year history of the Los Angeles Daily News, Tracy Rafter brought strategic vision, unbridled passion, fearless innovation, and dynamic leadership at a time of unprecedented challenge and change in the news media industry. She is now the principal of her own next level media company IMPOWER, LLC, and also owns a business advisory, Rafter Group, Inc. which provided management and leadership to organize, launch, and operate BizFed. As a 25 year veteran of the newspaper business, she has held chief executive positions in a variety of major markets across the country, including over a decade with the Journal Register Company of Trenton, New Jersey, where she served as Publisher and CEO of four award winning newspapers in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.

A Tuesday Funny: Golden Gophers Coaching Search

I don't normally do this but this headline out of Minnesota made me laugh, so I wanted to share it:

If Gophers fire Brewster, Tony Dungy will be first on their list

I understand that Tony went to the University of Minnesota but do you honestly think he would head back to coaching for a chance to lead the Golden Gophers?  If they call, he doesn't have to answer. 

What Bill Parcells and Jon Gruden aren't options? I know everyone believes their program is the best job in the world, but there isn't even a 1% chance Tony would take that job.  He is well paid by NBC and I don't think he is interested in going out and recruiting every weekend.

The article also mentions, Marc Trestman who is currently coaching in the CFL.  That would be a better bet.   I will throw a wild card name out there, who would be a good fit and spent 6 seasons with the Vikings:  Brian Billick.  Having a guy with a Super Bowl ring would really help in recruiting. 

With Minnesota in Michigan's section of the new Big Ten Conference, maybe I should have kept that idea to myself.

Michigan Tuesday: Recruiting Blitz

The Dee Hart decision is close and is expected next week.  Dee will be enrolling early and wants to get his official decision made so he can focus on football and school and not on recruiting. 

Dee visited Arkansas last weekend (who played Alabama) and the weekend before was at Auburn.  This weekend  he is visiting Alabama and will make his decision know next week.  

When he visited Auburn there were reports he was close to committing on the spot.  We know he isn't that interested in Arkansas because he Mom said so.  With that said, I think it's down to Alabama and Michigan.  Saban vs Rodriguez.  A man that turned down the job vs the man that took it.  A possible match up between two teams in Dallas in 2012. 

Dee has visited Michigan three times and still has to be seen as the leader, but Saban can recruit and I'm sure will pull out all the stops this weekend as they host Florida.   Dee is still expected to be up in Ann Arbor for the Iowa or MSU game which has to be seen as a good sign for the Wolverines.

  • Michigan is almost a two touchdown favorite at IU on Saturday.  -13.5

  • Michigan has offered junior QB from Tampa Bay Plant City High Bennie Coney

  • Michigan 2011 recruit from the same school in Tampa, Tony Posada has a sprained MCL and is listed as day-to-day.  He suffered the injury on 9/21 and didn't play last weekend.

  • NJ TE Jack Tabb will visit Iowa this weekend.  Michigan is recruiting Jack for the 2011 class as well.

  • Three updates below from TomVH at Mgoblog: 2011 CB recruit Avery Walls was named to the Army All American game.  Avery will visit Oregon and CAL and then make his offical decision known after that.  He plans on enrolling early and wants to make sure he is accepted before he announces his decision.
 
  • 2012 recruit Alan Grant is the son of former Wolverine Tony Gant visited Ann Arbor last weekend for the BGSU game:  "The visit was good, and I got a chance to talk with the coaches too. We mainly talked about how the season was going, how I was doing, and we talked a little about school and the recruiting process too."   Tony is an OSU fan, so Michigan has some catching up to do. 

  • Danny O'Brein is a 6'3 278 pound DT from Flint.  He is a 2012 recruit and visited Michigan this weekend as well:  "I was at the game with my Mom and Dad, and Coach Rodriguez came and talked to us right after his press conference. He said that he can't give me anything in writing until next August, but that I have a verbal offer from the University of Michigan. My Dad is a Michigan fan, so he was excited, me and my Mom were really excited too. It's a relief to know that I have that offer in hand now."

Monday, September 27, 2010

...Jimi Heselden

Ironic? Possibly. Jimi Heselden was the owner of the Segway Company, which he bought just 10 months ago. Apparently while riding on one of his Segways he fell over a 30 foot cliff into a river and died. Immediately questions came up over the safety of the Segway. President George W. Bush and Pierce Morgan have both famously fallen off of them and in America some cities have banned them all together. But beyond this Heselden was known for his generosity. He recently gave 15.9 million to the Leeds Community Foundation, and he is credited with bringing hundreds of jobs to the Leeds area with his development of the Hesco barriers, which is used in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Heselden dropped out of school, worked as a coal miner, was laid off, and then founded Hesco Bastion making himself a multi-millionaire. He was only 62 years old. I know for a fact that he will be missed by the people of Leeds and by his friends, family and employees. I am giving this a Digit Down.

9/27-Geoff Edwards

Geoff Edwards - Radio Personality
Geoff Edwards is a veteran radio and television broadcaster. He has an Emmy for best talk show host, and an Emmy nomination for best Game Show Host. Besides hosting network game shows, he has appeared as an actor in numerous television shows and movies. In radio, he was top rated in Los Angeles on both KMPC and KFI. With all of this, Geoff never lost his thirst for travel. He has been cruising since 1969 and has twice cruised around the world. From Morocco, to the Marshall Islands, and even to Branson, Geoff 's wit adds a special flavor to his travel commentary. Michael, Geoff's wife, travels with him and records all on film. Today, Geoff writes for several national magazines, currently broadcasts a weekly travel report to Monterey's KION morning show, and does on "location" special travel broadcasts for CRN, the Cable Radio Network.

Rich Rodriguez Press Conference Injury Updates

Denard has a bruised knee and might be limited today but should do everything on Tuesday.  He is expected to play on Saturday.

Fitzgerald Toussaint who has been injured his entire Michigan career now has a shoulder problem.  He was coming back from a knee issue and was out all last year due to injury.   Fitz had two carries and a touchdown against BGSU. 

Michael Shaw sprained his knee and is day to day. 

Tate is fine, he just got a helmet to the quad.

The coaches are optimistic that both Carvin Johnson and Brandon Herron will play at IU on Saturday.

Team News:
  • RR considers both Tate and Devin the #2 QB to Denard.
  • Pleasant surprise has been the true freshman CB's so far.
  • Michigan has played 13 true freshman this year most of them on defense.
  • Courtney Avery is probably going to change to #5.  Michigan got called for penalty for having 2 #9's on the field against BGSU.
  • IU has good WR's and will be a challenge for the young Michigan CB's.
  • IU has only played 3 games and might be the healthiest team in the Big Ten right now.
  • It's Big Ten season and "everything gotta get cranked up a notch"

Michigan Monday: Former Wolverine QB's Have a Tough Weekend

After watching Denard Robinson run the Rich Rod offense many of us Michigan fans can't blame Ryan Mallett and Steven Threet for transferring to other schools.  Both transfers have seemed to work out for the young men.  Ryan has become one of the more explosive QB's in the SEC and Steven Threet is well under way for making his imprint on Arizona State. 

Last Saturday both players had a chance to give their teams big wins over highly ranked opponents and for Mallett a chance to grab the lead in the Heisman race.  Both players threw for over 300 yards but both had poor decisions that cost their team wins.   Ryan had 3 interceptions against #1 Alabama and threw two in  the fourth quarter when Arkansas had the lead.   Steven through 4 interceptions on the day against #4 Oregon with 3 of those picks coming in the 4th quarter.  His first interception was returned for a pick 6. 

Those decisions obviously either cost their teams the game or a chance at a comeback.  So we wish these gentlemen luck and hope for better days in the PAC 10 and the SEC.


  • Michigan - MSU Game will be 3:30 kickoff on ABC/ESPN.  This will be a lock on ABC if both teams win next weekend.  MSU hosts Wisconsin.

  • For those that are worried that Fitz Tousaint got caught from behind on his first carry as a Wolverine that went for 60 yards but was caught at the 3 yard line.  He is still nursing a knee injury and had a knee brace on.  I'm sure he doesn't get caught if he is healthy.   He scored on the next play.

  • Michigan is ranked #20 in the AP and #19 in the Coaches Poll.

  • TomVH from Mgoblog reports that 2012 instate DT Danny O'Brien got a Michigan offer on Saturday.

  • Lloyd Carr wants some type of playoffs in college football.
 
  • Tim Brewster, Minnesota's head coach is on "unemployment watch" after the Golden Gophers lost to Northern Illinois last weekend.   This week would be a good time for a fresh start with the Big Ten season starting. Maybe they should call Glen Mason again. 

  • ESPN's Big Ten Blog is ranking Michigan #4 in the Big Ten Power Rankings behind OSU, Iowa, and Wisconsin.  Which is about right.

  • There is a rumor floating around right now that Dee Hart will visit Alabama this weekend and then make his official decision known. 
We know that Denard it talented but this run in the first quarter was ridiculous.  BTW:  He had 189 yards of offense in less then a quarter. 

INDIAN JEWELLERY MODEL 2






Paris Hilton Celebrity Styler reviews

You'll find quite a few items found on the market today that can help make your tresses look quite similar to any superstars, but there is a certain merchandise that is above all other products, latest Celebrity Styler by Paris Hilton. The Styler Celebrities by Paris Hilton by Paris Hilton launched in Fall 2009 and since then it developed into an accessory that every single woman will need to have a dressing table in her chest.

The Celebrity Styler is one of the most useful devices intended for every woman who enjoys tochange hairstyles often and quickly. Not only does your hair flat, but then can be used to get pretty curls. The best aspect about this particular styler is that you do not have to spend hours sitting looking at the mirror dressing table with it, but only in a few minutes of your key change from the ordinary appeared to celebrities like tresses.

One thing plus more from Paris Hilton Celebrity Styler is that it's not just your present hair style apt, but also help make your keywords appear better plus make it glow. This can be achieved because of the rotating tube in styling that is created from ceramic tourmaline. Cyndrical Fund continues to rotate and distribute the heat uniformly, and when you use local products to keep operating your hair looking soft and shiny as you really have never been seen before.

Styler is a celebrity and high-technology advanced further includes a digital keypad that allows you to set to archive curl, straighten, do flips on the fringe or the temperature around 210-450 degrees. Public benefit is that the tool is suitable for all hair types and enables all people to make the most. An attribute bonus is deadly force, is a styler close by itself when not in use for a while.

Why do we not see how this tool basically works on your hair -

- Paris Hilton Celebrity Styler is a multi functional product that does everything you need done with your hair.

- The product is made with a mixture of flat iron along with the curling iron.

- To use a stylist to keep their balance between heated and adjustable zones.

- Once your hair is placed between the plates, the barrel will turn itself on an average speed of 100 revolutions per minute.

Now you can choose whether you want to straighten curly hair or maybe you and the styler will start working to produce the required results.

- While working on your hair products use a little brush to flatten or straighten your hair curl. This tends to make your hair look the task seems to have worked on by a skilled hairdresser.

- When you are combing and styling your hair or curly warmed plates also work on your hair to help make them smooth and shiny.

- Switch off automatically if left undetected for a period of time.

- To provide the best effect on hair that has been detangled first.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

...Bentley

By now we are used to hearing about recalls on cars such as Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevy, etc. But earlier this year Ferrari recalled its new 458 Italia, a $300,000 sports car. Now we have a new car to add to the list, Bentley. Bentley is recalling 820 of its cars worldwide, 620 in America alone, because of a fear that its famous "winged B" may not retract during an accident and it could possibly injure someone. The repairs would be done for free and take about an hour. I find this rather humorous. If you are in an accident I doubt you are going to care about your hood ornament. This just makes the company look bad, any recall would do that. I am sure owners could care less if their "winged B" retracts during an accident. I am giving Bentley a Digit Down for tarnishing their image a tad.

Michigan - BGSU Post Game

Well that was more like it.   We got want we wanted but it just came a week late.  Michigan got all 3 QB's in and all 3 looked pretty good.   Tate went 12-12 in throwing the ball and Denard was lighting it up on the ground before he went out with a knee injury.  65-21 is an obvious mismatch but it's good to be 4-0 heading into October and The Big Ten season.

Devin looked pretty sharp throwing the ball and even had a long bomb dropped by Junior Hemingway.   The defense played well for most of the game.   

So what did we learn from this game?  Not much in my opinion.  BGSU was not a very good team.  Their backup QB seemed to struggle most of the day.   Michigan got whatever they wanted on offense and didn't punt all day long.  They didn't even attempt a field goal.  

This game was good for confidence on both sides of the ball after a pretty humbling week against UMass last week.  All the running backs found holes and ran the ball well.  It was good to see Fitz Toussaint, Mike Cox and Stephen Hopkins get some touches at RB.   I would like to see Mike Cox be the goal line/short yardage running back. 

Let's quickly get to the Cheers and Jeers:

Cheers:
  • The Michigan offense was un-stoppable
  • Michigan finally got some pressure on the opposing QB and recorded 3 sacks
  • Michigan got to go deep in the depth chart
  • Confidence should be high going on the road to IU next week
  • Defense seemed to be more aggressive this week
Jeers:
  • Michigan seems a bit banged up with Denard going out with a knee and Shaw getting tripped in the 3rd quarter.  Shaw's injury could last into this week.  He was limping coming off the field after the game.  RR said Denard will be ready to play at IU next weekend.
  • The Michigan defense did give up a big play on a 71 yard screen for a touchdown.
  •  No punts or field goals mean our kickers didn't get any more confidence
  • Devin's redshirt is for sure gone

Michigan played well and blew out a team they should of blown out.  It's difficult to see Denard go down in such a mismatch but it gave Tate a chance to show he isn't dead or transferring.  I still don't understand why they would blow Devin's redshirt unless they fully believe they will need him this year.   I guess he could always redshirt next year? 

So Michigan is again 4-0, just like last year.  The Big Ten season is now on tap with  a trip to IU next Saturday and then huge games against MSU and Iowa at home.  Michigan needs to prove they can win on the road and start off the season the right way.  IU likes to score points and they will test Michigan's defense.  Let's hope some of the guys banged up at linebacker will be back for next weeks game.

Let's also hope Denard's injury isn't serious and he will be 100% next week.

Go Blue!

Enjoy some photos from the game:


Barwis and Big Will
 Mike Martin
 Denard after the game




The last drive of the game

The Effect of Hollywood

I like movies. I'm clearly not alone. Film business has become one of the best investments over the last 12 years. Americans, especially those fascinated by Hollywood. It seems that everything about us is a reflection of how we see ourselves through the eyes of the hero or villain, of course, like playing the movie star. A "star" is a curious term. Logic in labeling people from all walks of success is a mystery. There are superstars, star client, the star performance, and not less than movie star. But the term is used by rubbing a bit on Hollywood. I think for people to look as good or as little as one anointed role as the star. Is it true, is it real?

Perhaps, for better or worse, we see ourselves through the character models are played on the world stage. So who is called movie stars often appear as a candidate for the political sages, philosophers, and philanthropists, and even criminals. But life has a way to reduce us from a child told by our parents could do anything, with the reality that our personal investment in preparation for life and work that eventually produced the desired result. We may be living in the hands of other amazing - some people get the government threw the key-but so sitting on the throne real life would be in a hurry. All dreams of living facilities, extracted from a picture in your mind by the people and the decisions of many day-to-day management of the fact that "given" to you.

Everyone, at some point discussed for exceptional achievement in his life. Just a little self-esteemed among us may trade the current self-denial. Most enjoy it. But the work that preceded the award was not all-hit. More likely, it was written by good thinking, design, and preparation that takes years to achieve.

An old story of looking for a man in front of his rabbi. "I wanted to be a heart surgeon Dr. Michael DeBakey as great as I believe that all authority in heaven and earth belongs to Allah so laid. Your hands on me and ask God to instill the knowledge and skills DeBakey .. Then I will begin my training. "Flashing rabbis do not believe it and said," Son, go to medical school, residency completion, and specializes in surgery then applied to the hospital., attach yourself to the wizard surgery for several years, and maybe in 30 years you will reach your goal. "

Hard work performance is not without joy. State of our present life by chance, or defeat, each of which is our power to choose. When Lee Iacocca to see what Chrysler has to be after what he has joined with others to make it, some of the joy of their victory before out of her. John Scully have to wonder whether more respect terrace brilliance in (design) approach will change Apple's Steve Job's for the glory of this moment before. Bill Clinton, also have to consider what might have had extraordinary powers controlled the urge to focus on himself and not to serve others. They are all in good Sarekat as we lined up behind them.

Extraordinary men and women have the same number. They see the purpose in their lives, and the goal is to meet and share with others-all the way and in the end. They measure the benefits of hard work with joy in it, for yourself and others. In the end, we all came to David Cameron, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, which has seen the future of current practice reveals that, and play back time to a more simple, more productive for the nation of our founders imagined when they set government about the biblical principle of "freedom of choice." This is the place where the little we have created superior total value of what we serve.

Presumption of damage is a dangerous deviation of ethics. We assume that politicians are corrupt by nature or practice, to do anything except the sound (sometimes), that the standard of living we need to overspending on all services including the education of our children (three times higher in Westchester County than average nationally), we see, life, and death is better than another, that other people we work with the things we should do for ourselves, and that we continue to pretend that the way of life size, this would-be temple, will last forever

Saturday, September 25, 2010

...Georgia

Living in Georgia now for a while has made me miss Florida with a passion. This state seems to be a little too backward or...not as culturally diverse as I would like. Now some people may love it here, and that is okay, but for me I can live without it. This brings me to 2 recent articles I read about the state.
The 1st is about Georgia's plan to reach out to gay and bisexuals to help educate them about HIV and HIV prevention. On the surface that sounds wonderful and like something that should be done. But after living here and seeing the way people operate I think that may be wasted money. Why? Well because although there is a high gay and bisexual population here, it is the bisexual and the infamous Down-low (DL) crowd that you have to educate, but cannot because they are not about to be spotted doing anything that may make them seem "gay". The spread of HIV cannot be controlled if some guy is sleeping with men and then running home to be with his girlfriend or wife. There are so many DL men in Georgia, it almost feels as if every male in Georgia could be on the DL if they are not out. Married or just dating that does not mean a thing. If we may look at the latest scandal involving Bishop Eddie Long...enough said about that. Will it help? Maybe, I guess you would have to try it out and see, but I am not holding my breath.
Topic #2, prescription drugs kill more in Georgia than illegal drugs. I found this one interesting. Apparently illegal drug deaths, due to overdose, were down from 2008-2009 while prescription drug deaths were up! It is so bad that Saturday the DEA held its 1st ever prescription drug take-back event. The type of drugs being abused most are pain killers and anti-anxiety drugs. Leading the pack would be: Alprazolam, or Xanax, an anti-anxiety drug, Methadone, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone. To break it down furthermore:
Age 15 and under: 4 deaths

Age 15-24: 45 deaths

Age 25-34: 125 deaths

Age 35-44: 182 deaths

Age 45-54: 221 deaths

Age 64 and older: 13 deaths

-608 White

-60 Black

-2 Asian

-376 Males

-294 Females

Obviously this a major problem that will hopefully get solved. I could blame this on a lot of things but of course this will have to fall under the "Recession Umbrella".

I know that no state is perfect and every state has its own problems, but this state just seems to be a lot worse than what I am used to. Florida did have lots of problems yes, but I did not have a state income tax which helped me get over a lot of things. I am giving Georgia 2 Digits Down.

...Fred Armisen and Elisabeth Moss

I love Fred Armisen on Saturday Night Live, so it was odd to hear that he and his wife Elisabeth Moss of Mad Men were getting a divorce after less than a year of marriage. In fact they have been separated since June. The reason for the divorce, some say, is the fact that her religion means more to her than her marriage. Elisabeth is a Scientologist and it seems that Fred could not go along with it. Apparently though he has moved on and she has moved on and both are okay with it. He moved on to his co-star Abby Elliot. Fred must like them young because although he is 45, his soon to be ex-wife is 28 and his current fling is 23. I do not see anything wrong with the divorce, it happens, and although Scientology is seen as strange to some, it is a religion and I will not criticize someone else's beliefs. I would however like to say that they should have thought this out before they got married! Pre-marital counseling anyone? I have no clue why they did not think to talk about these types of issues extensively before they got married, but they did not and now they are getting divorced. I am giving them a Digit Down for not planning ahead properly and communicating before they got married.

Bleep 15

No punts so far from Michigan today.   Devin Gardner just replaced Tate with 8:37 left in the game.

Cox has shown some power running the ball.   Fitz T #28 gets in and runs 61 yards but gets caught at the 4.   Next play he runs it in for a touchdown.

Bleep 14

Denard's knee is wrapped but he is moving around on the sideline.  Tate has been very accurate with his throws and looked sharp all day.  In my mind he is the clear #2 and has taken all the 3rd qtr snaps so far.

Vincent Smith for another Blue Touchdown.  Heading to the field soon, so will be logging off.  51-21

Bleep 13

Michigan scored to make it 44-14 then BGSU scored 44-21.

Bleep 12

Tate leads the team down the field.  1 yard pass from him to the full back out of the I formation.

Bleep 11

BGSU hikes the ball through the end zone for a safety.  Tate in after free kick.

Half time Bleep

28-14

Bleep 10

Tate lead the drive and Shaw scored from a yard out.  28-14

Bleep 9

BGSU scored on one play 72 yards screen.  Poor tackeling. 21-14.
Tate is in the game.

Bleep 8

BGSU got thier first score a 1 yard TD run. 8:53 left in 1st half.  Denard is up walking around and seems fine.

Bleep 7

Stephen Hopkins just fumbled.  End of the first qtr.  21-0.  Denard is on the bench and hasn't moved too much since his injury. 

Bleep 6

Devin throws his first TD pass to Gallon, who makes his first TD catch.  21-0

Bleep 5

Denard goes for 45 yard run and gets hurt on the sideline.  Devin Gardner in

Bleep 4

Denard just went 44 yards for a TD on a play where he should have been tackled for a loss.  He is crazy good.

Bleep 3

Denard scores.  Too easy.  made the field goal!  2:15 scoreing drive.  Boo Boo on kickoff return for BGSU

Bleep 2

Denard is moving the ball down field and the offense looks fast.  No slow start today.  Shaw is running hard. 1st and goal.

Bleep #1

Here in the press box.  Very nice, much different then last year.  Just saw Gary Moeller in the hallway.

Team warming up 1/2 an hour before kickoff.

Friday, September 24, 2010

...MTV

MTV is giving 2 people who helped make their recent reality show franchise HUGE a show of their own. Lauren Conrad from Laguna Beach and The Hills and Pauly D from Jersey Shore. First let us talk about Lauren. Lauren's new show is a reality documentary about her new fashion line. It is scheduled to start shooting this October. She left The Hills in 2009 and has been absent from television since. With this new show she will have more control over everything. I am sure it will be interesting, more interesting than it sounds, but honestly I could live without it. I am over her and The Hills. Next there is Pauly D. I am going to make this short. His new show apparently already has a title and a premise. It will be about him and his DJing career. It is scheduled to start shooting within a month. The 3rd season of Jersey Shore has already wrapped up so this made it possible for him to start this new project. I am not looking forward to this show either. I am not interested in what he is doing or who he may be doing it with. I get enough of him and his friends on Jersey Shore. Again I can live without this. MTV seems to be running out of creative juice, typical Hollywood stuff. I am giving MTV a Digit Down.

Press Box on Saturday

BHB Inmates,
I will be in the Press Box on Saturday and since I don't have a twitter account, I will give you some updates here at BHB.  Instead of Tweets lets call them Bleeps here at Big House Blog. 

So tune into the game and share you feelings here at BHB. 

See you then.

-Bob

Michigan - Bowling Green Game Preview

Time: 12:00
Location: Big House
Line: Michigan - 25.5
TV: ESPN2
Weather: 63 and Sunny

I find there are a lot of similarities between these two teams:

  • Both have fairly new head coaches (ok after 3 years, I guess we won't be able to use that much longer)
  • Both have young QB's
  • Both have a young defense
  • Both teams like to score lots of points
  • One team lost their first two games but had a good win last weekend, the other had two good wins but didn't look so good last weekend.
  • Both schools are 72 miles apart from each other
  • On Saturday, I will drive by one stadium and sit in the other.
The big difference is talent.  Michigan has much more talent on it's roster but these days it really doesn't make a difference.  See any FCS school that has played a D1 school close this fall.

What will we see from BG?

Bowling Green likes to run a "west coast" style offense with high percentage throws.  Which means lots of short routes and screens.  This offense is made for ball control and first downs.   BG's starting QB is out for the game and their new QB is making his first start.   BG's offensive line is young and has been struggling.  

BG is also young on defense where their DB's and LB's are very young but talented.  They got a pick 6 last week and 4 total interceptions against Marshall.   I didn't see the game but I expect some of those 4 picks were poor decisions by the Marshall QB.

What will we see from the Wolverines?

I don't see the BG defense being able to contain the high powered Michigan offense.  So points shouldn't be a problem.  Michigan hopes to use a number of new running backs to give them some experience.  So look for Cox, Hopkins, and Toussaint. 

Michigan's defense is the big question mark going into the game.   They played well for the first two games and terrible against UMass.  Will we see some new guys at LB?  How will Cam Gordon and the CB's play against a passing team?  Will they pressure the young BG QB making his first start?  Did they learn something from last week?

Tale of the Tape

Michigan offense vs BG defense =  Michigan

Michigan defense vs BG offense = Push

Special Teams = Push

Intangibles = Michigan

I expect to see a lot of points in this game.  What will Michigan's defense do?  If the same unit that showed up last week, shows up this week.  They will give up some points again.  I feel pretty good with BG's offense line and a new QB making his first start that the Michigan D can be successful.   I would like to see Michigan pressure the QB and get a bunch of sacks.

I would also like to see Tate and Devin (please redshirt him, please!!) (Yes, he could get a medical redshirt if he turns an ankle or something) and a number of new running backs.   I want to see the RB's get most of the carries like last week with another 100 yard rusher.

Sing Hail to the Victors if:
  • Defense gets stops
  • D pressures the QB
  • Michigan gets 5 sacks
  • Michigan makes a field goal
  • Michigan catches and returns a punt
  • Offense skill players stay healthy
  • We see some backups on both sides of the ball
  • This game isn't a replay from last week
Start to get that weird feeling in your stomach if:
  • The defense didn't learn anything
  • Ezeh and Mouton have a UMass type of Saturday
  • Michigan attempts a field goal
  • Denard has to play the entire game
  • That fish taco you ate on Friday night isn't sitting well

I'm not worried about Michigan scoring points, I would like some linebackers that can read/react quickly and a kicker that can make field goals from 40 yards or less.   That would be nice.   I don't want to witness a UMass style game this week.  I want to see Mr. President Jack Kennedy (4th string QB) take some snaps.  That would be a good Saturday.   Michigan 48  BGSU 21


GO BLUE!

Michigan - Bama is Happening

Nick Saban let the "cat" out of the bag and announced the Michigan - Alabama game at Jerry World last night on his radio show.  It hasn't been officially announced but it seems like it's a done deal. 

I don't have any problem with this game and pretty excited to get a chance to go to "Jerry World" and see the Wolverines during Denard's senior year. 

What I do have a problem is which year they are playing the game.  In 2012, Michigan plays on the road:
Notre Dame, Nebraska, Ohio State and now Alabama at a neutral field.  Those are tough road games in one year.  

  

Kids of Bollywood Celebrities

I believed that you usually saw the images of great celebrities and never recognize the real heroes of their heroin of family. Let see the family pictures of Bollywood Celebrities.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

...Sesame Street

Just 1 day after I saw that Katy Perry was going to be a guest on Sesame Street on New Year's Eve, I learned today that her duet with Elmo was cut from the show. Why? Well the segment was posted on YouTube and parents left comments that were not so kind. Mainly they had an issue with Katy's cleavage. The show said that it values its viewers and did not want to upset them so they removed the segment. I understand why they did it, and it makes sense, but it is not Katy's fault. I am sure Sesame Street, even with its budget cuts, has stylist who could have given her something else to wear, but they did not. Some people think that maybe Katy's life and lifestyle were to blame for the backlash from the parents, which could be possible, but I doubt it. This is the video that had parents, I am assuming mostly if not all mothers, upset.



I thought about it and I thought about it some more. Do I give Sesame Street a Digit Up or Down? Finally I just decided to give them a Digit Down. I would have given them a Digit Up if they would have at least tried to get Katy to wear something else, but they did not, so it all falls back on them. Digit Down Sesame Street.

9/24-Scott St James, Harold Sylvester

Scott St. James-Actor, Sports Personality 

Scott St. James began his acting career with a role in Heart Of A Champion: The Ray Mancini Story. Since then, he has appeared in dozens of motion pictures and TV series including Everybody Loves Raymond, ER and Jimmy Kimmel Live! His national television commercial credits include roles for American Express, Pepsi and Honda Motor Company. A true renaissance man, Scott began his career as an award-winning radio personality, enjoying tremendous success at stations all across the country, including St. Louis powerhouse KMOX and KMPC and KIIS-FM in Los Angeles, working with legendary personalities Robert W. Morgan and Rick Dees. Along the way he picked up multiple Golden Mike and Mark Twain Awards for commentary writing. His daily morning commentaries on Arrow 93FM covered a broad spectrum of topics from sports to entertainment to politics, and over a period of nine years, raised an eyebrow or two. In the 80’s, Scott was also the on-camera Sports Director at LA’s KCAL-TV, Channel 9. Contact Scott St. James via e-mail: scottstjames@sbcglobal.net




Harold Sylvester-American Film and Television Actor


Sylvester was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. A graduate of New OrleansSt. Augustine High School and Tulane University, Sylvester is best known for his role on the TV series Married... with Children as Griff, the co-worker and friend of Al Bundy at the shoe store. Harold's other TV roles include the short-lived 1981 series Walking TallToday's F.B.I.Mary, and Shaky Ground. The most recent TV show he starred in was The Army Show. Sylvester had a recurring role on the TV series City of Angels.
His well known film roles are An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), Uncommon Valor (1983), Innerspace (1987), Corrina, Corrina (1994), andMissing Brendan (2003). Sylvester has made guest appearances on shows, ranging from Hill Street Blues to Murder, She Wrote to NYPD Blue.
Sylvester attended Tulane University on a basketball scholarship and graduated in 1972 with a degree in theater and psychology. He was the first African-American ever to receive an athletic scholarship from Tulane.

Michigan Mash Report: Bowling Green

OUT

Ferrara, John  Hand
Herron, Brandon  Ankle
Johnson, Carvin   Knee
Jones, Mike   Leg
Van Slyke, Jared  Clavicle
Williams, Mike   Head
Woolfolk, Troy  Ankle


PROBABLE (75% PLAY)
Robinson, Marvin     Shoulder
Toussaint, Fitzgerald    Knee

 
It's good to see that Marvin and Fitz might be on the field for the Bowling Green game.  Michigan will need both players for the Big Ten season so they need to get some live snaps in this game.  It's too bad about Brandon Herron who we thought might be ready this week.   Let's hope the LB's can step up after a poor game last Saturday.

Michigan Thursday: CC with RR

As we know, Colin Cowherd was in A2 yesterday to do his radio show and his ESPN TV show.  He had a good interview with Rich Rod that can be found here.  

  • Dee Hart is visiting Arkansas this weekend.  Per his mom, he is supporting his teammates and not really interested in The Hogs.  Of course, if Ryan Mallett beats the #1 team in the nation this week, that could have a big effect on changing his mind. 

  •  David Molk is the only Michigan guy right now on Mel Kipers 2011 Draft Board.

  • Brian Griese will be calling the Michigan game this weekend for ESPN 2.

  • In a Michigan fan's strange game of the week: West Virgina visiting LSU.  I wonder if Bill Martin will tune in or maybe he is on his sailboat.
 
  • Former Michigan WR Ron Bellamy is now the head coach of West Bloomfield High.

  • Good article from A2.com on Darryl Stonum's good game and his grandmother in the stands last week:
At age 87, Nettie Stonum boarded an airplane for the first time in her life last week for a flight from Houston to Detroit. That experience was nothing compared to watching her grandson play for the Michigan football team in Michigan Stadium.

“A lot of the people in the stands were trying to calm her down, because they didn’t know if she was going to have a heart attack or what,” said junior wide receiver Darryl Stonum.


“From what I heard, she was screaming and jumping out of her wheelchair in the stands, and just having a good time.”

Big Ten Weekend Preview Week #4

This has to be one of the most "down" weeks in Big Ten scheduling history.  It is full of Big Ten vs MAC teams and teams like Austin Peay and Northern Colorado.  Yikes, I'm not sure I can remember a Saturday when there wasn't at least one decent game in Big Ten country.   I wonder who Nebraska is playing?  Answer: South Dakota State.  Never mind.

Big Ten Game of the Week (Big Reach):

Temple at Penn State:  I did a Big Ten Preview for the Michigan Man podcast in August.  Two things I predicted was Arizona would beat Iowa and that Temple would upset Penn State.   Temple is a pretty good team that has wins over Villanova (#1 ranked in the FCS), Central Michigan, and UConn already this year.   If Penn State sleeps on Temple they will find themselves with a L on Saturday.  The line is PSU -13.5.  So Vegas is buying this won't be a blow out.  I will stay with my prediction:  Temple 21 PSU 20

The Other Games

Northern Colorado at MSU:  This will be the first game for the Spartans without their head coach after his heart attack on Sunday morning.  MSU will be inspired and this one won't be close.  Line is MSU -30.5.  MSU 42 NCU 10

Austin Peay at Wisconsin:  Wow, is this a basketball game?  It seems more like a December basketball game and not a football game in September.   Expect a huge day on the ground from the Badgers.  Line is -43 for Wisky.  Take the points with AP!  Wisconsin 40 AP 3

EMU at Ohio State:  I feel bad for former Michigan DC Ron English.  He is still trying to get his first win at Eastern and this is not the week.  I hope the Eagles got paid.  Line is OSU -44.  Yes, 44.   Vest 51 EMU 14

Akron at Indiana:  IU likes to score points and Akron has to travel from Ohio.   That's about all.  IU is favored by 22.5 points.  I think this one is a little closer then that.  IU 28 Akron 14

Northern Illinois at Minnesota:  Vegas thinks this will be the closet Big Ten game of the week with the Golden Gophers favored by 4.5.  The gophers are a mess right now and some people are predicting that thier head coach might not make it until Halloween.   Minnesota needs a win dearly.  I think they get one on Saturday.  Minnesota 24 NIU 17

Toledo at Purdue:  The Boilermakers are beat up and haven't been playing very well when healthy.  Toledo might make this game interesting.  The line has Purdue by 11.5.  I think Toledo will play well.  Purdue 17 Toledo 14

Central Michigan at Northwestern:  Central Michigan is a pretty good team and they are not having post Butch Jones problems.  On the other hand, Butch already has 2 losses at Cincinnati and they host Oklahoma this weekend.  I wonder if Butch looked at the schedule before taking the job at UC?   Central has been known for their high powered offense, but would you be surprised to learn that CMU has the 4th ranked defense in the country? They are giving up 9 points a game.  I had high hope for NW this year and they are starting to turn the corner with a 30-13 win over Rice last week.   These teams seem very similar (NW only gives up 12 points a game) and the line is NW -6.5.   NW 14 CMU 10

Illinois has a bye. 


I will preview the Michigan - BGSU game on Friday. 


A Thought to Ponder Today:  What should this weekend be called?  MAC Attack?  MAC invasion?  Big MAC Weekend?