An article on FoxSports.com just got used to clean up dog poop after it foolishly picked the wrong quarterback to start for Colorado come the opener.
Hey, the Black and Gold Truth originally had its' money on JUCO Johnny too but that was before spring break where the light started shining from a different man under center, an Idaho gunslinger named Hawkins. Cody Hawkins.
The same story says former Colorado prep Taylor Tharp will emerge from the back to start at Boise State, replacing Jared Zabransky.
Quick, tell me, who is Demetrius Jones?
Quite possibly the starter at QB at Notre Dame instead of mega-recruit Jimmy Clausen.
Smooth picks on future Hall of Famer
Former CU star guard Chauncey Billups, Mr. Big Shot, must not be Italian.
He has no freakin' manners, no freakin' respect.
Friday, he hosted revered point guard Jason Kidd and showed him up by dropping 32 points and 14 assists in the game. Kidd put a good night's work in getting 10 points, eight rebounds and nine assists but likely left the building with a vendetta on his mind after his team lost 110-105 to Detroit.
Them other guys
So, who is this Kevin Durant guy who just keeps piling up awards? He must good, no? But from what I read, he's just another run-of-the-mill, generic scoring forward who is clueless on defense. I'm sure if we look hard enough, we'll find someone who will label him overrated. You know that season-long domination, well, hey, it ain't no big thang'. The boy was just chucking it up there against chumps from a chump conference.
The Backyard
Could the Denver Nuggets, guys getting paid, at least try to play some defense? Yes, Phoenix has one impressive offensive engine but allowing them to shoot a double nickel from the field in a rout over the homeboys Friday was just too much.
That should earn the Nuggets a fine for tanking it, as in they skated.
Carmelo Anthony showed up with 32 points, 10 rebounds and five assists and Nene keeps it rolling, laying it down with 18 points and nine rebounds but Allen Iverson, while scoring 26 points, had but one assist. Marcus Camby did have a double-double. So, numbers-wise, the Nuggets looked good as individuals but no defense and no passing and Denver might as well be playing Colorado in the Big 12. That's about as good as they looked against the Suns.
If the Nuggets were the New York Yankees and Stan Kroenke was George Steinbrenner, George Karl and Mark Warkentien would soon be considered "exports."
Not saying that's the move this general manager would make but in New York, accountability is something leadership faces on an annual basis.
BGT Morning News
Have to say, I'm a little surprised that some Air Force coach got blanked in the voting for coach of the year. That said, Tony Bennett was deserving as anyone for flying the Cougars to the moon.
I know you listen to me, well, once in a while, right? But this is for the rock heads who don't listen -- Billy Donovan will not leave Florida for Kentucky. What would be the motivation? He has better weather, has already won it all once in Gainesville, has a shot to repeat, can recruit against the best, and the Gators will get whatever cash Donovan thinks he needs to feel loved. The media on this story bore me.
One of my favorite players from an opposing school was the great Wayman Tisdale of Oklahoma. Big smile, big game, unbelievable talent out of the gate. Now, news is he has cancer. So happy he went tumbling and broke his leg. Prayers to the Sooner big fella and his family. You're going to make it and score big again in this life with your story. Once spoke to the jazz musician on a talk show years ago and will say this, the man is a gentleman with an easy way about him and a sense of humor.
Here's an academic freak show for you, courtesy of, yes, Georgetown. Now someone has to be red-faced or red-ass over this one. Someone also either caught or will catch some major heat, a real dressing down now the story has gone public. An embarrassment for the basketball program and a fine institution of higher learning.
Going to make another run on the Micheal Ray Richardson story -- where the ex-Colorado prep just got ambushed by the national media. What, is there no forgiveness amongst you? Never did anything you regret? Did you ever have a need for forgiveness? Was it granted? Richardson's comments to the press were loose and awkward. There were not intended to hurt others. They were not Marge Schott, John Rocker or Michael Richards (Seinfeld) ugly. Yet, the vultures are swirling over Richardson like he's a corpse. Funny how those offended in this life often are uglier in behavior than the words that seemingly wreck their self esteem. Disgraceful.
I see where some are making Michael Jordan -- Kobe Bryant comparisons, so hey, let the Big Dog in too. Here it is -- skills wise, both were/are superlative. Give me Bryant on range on the jump shot and fluidity to his game but I'll take MJ on overall dominance, the ability to drive the ball and score, rebounding, passing, defense, the will to win, the ability to lift others and get them to do what was necessary for victory, and oh yeah, all that freakin' hardware. Dude also was one of the best money players when it counted in sports history. Love Bryant's game even if he is a phony as a person but Jordan is the one I want for one game with the house bet on it. Yeah, that's my final answer. Look at my smile. I'm so ready to cash in and take the cheddar from all those Kobe-lovers.
Uh-oh. Divorce, bad. Vindictive wife or soon-to-be ex-Cruella, worse. Someone screwed up in a big, big way, either being nasty or cheating. And now comes the dreaded hammer on this dude's life. Judgment day. His patience, nerves and balls will be tested in a big way. And who knew? After all, her dad is a such a cool guy, easy going and all, you know?
And now, the award for Winner of the Day goes to....Lionel Gates. Going to be hard to argue all that "fun" in a court room but hey, he's an athlete so I'm sure a little talkin' of the green will put the fire out. Just a good thing Gates doesn't live in Venezuela like Ugueth Urbina, where crime actually gets prosecuted.
The final flurry
Who we need more of in the stands at CU basketball games. This guy, too, as this is where it starts but we need to make sure these types never become our neighbors.
I tried to hard to get this gig but you know how things go -- politics. Then attempted to create this on a Friday night once in a bar but it didn't quite play out the same. Good news, no injuries. For the girls, at least.
Truth
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
It's gettin' hot in here
Colorado has long wanted Jeff Bzdelik as its' man.
That time appears to be now, as in this weekend in Atlanta at the Final Four, according to B.G. Brooks of the Rocky Mountain News.
If the offer is made and Bzdelik accepts as expected, start the parade as rebirth of Buffs' basketball can begin. Regardless of whether CU really went nationwide in its' search for a replacement for Ricardo Patton and whether Bzdelik is the right fit in Boulder, he is unquestionably the hottest hire the program has ever made for the program.
Who knows what CU will be next season on the floor but this much would be a given with Bzdelik as coach -- structure would be evident, fundamentals a strength, defensive intensity would puzzle fans and media and the offense would resemble a system. Wins would also occur more frequently.
Bzdelik would inherit Patton's talent but would need to find some playable size or suffer the consequences next season.
The fans are tired of waiting and talking about "who's it going to be." Buffs' athletic director Mike Bohn getting his guy would put a big smile on his face and get this, on the faces of many at the school, even professors as Bzdelik is a no-nonsense leader who wants strong students and leaders representing his team.
Players like it
CU recruits like the idea of Bzdelik.
Why?
The resume.
His background.
The winning.
Players want to win.
They will take the yelling, the screaming if something comes out of it.
They want instruction and guidance.
If they get the payoff.
They want to feel good about themselves and especially around their peers on and off campus.
Prescription -- winning.
Them other guys
Arkansas loses out in its' pursuit of Texas A & M chemist Billy Gillispie as the Aggies' coach has decided to remain in College Station. Big coup for an up-and-coming program and a embarrassing rejection for Razorback fans. Hard to imagine A & M as a more attractive place than Fayetteville these days.
Letters
Greg comments on assistant coaches for the next staff at Colorado.
"(Jeff) Bzdelik needs to find an assistant coach who can develop relationships with Colorado high school coaches. We have been losing too many good players (Nick Fazekas, Matt Bouldin, Sean Ogirri, and more) to outside programs! I would also like to see a former Buff on the staff. Perhaps Jay Humphries would be interested?"
BGT: Greg, I agree that developing quality relationships with in-state coaches has long been an oversight and imperative so that when the unique local talent comes around, CU is strongly in the mix. However, assistants also need to be able to succeed with the authority given to them in practice by being teachers and they must be able to recruit regionally, if not nationally, with a high rate of return. Humphries is intriguing because he can say CU took him to the NBA but a former Buff is not mandatory to me but recruiting talent farmers and practice teachers are.
Next up is Joe Anonymous, also is talking assistants.
"The ideal candidate would have been a high school coach in Colorado at some point in his career. Bobby Hofman at Fort Lewis is one name that comes to mind. It doesn't hurt that Hofman played at CU, either!"
BGT: Hofman has his fans, chief among them Neill Woelk of the Daily Camera, and yes, you want people invested emotionally in the program, ideally, but I like the idea of focusing more on getting hungry, ethical teachers and recruiters. Then, with that formula and leadership in place watch this program be transformed into something some think not possible, which is a consistent winner. Maybe not Final Four quality or even an annual NCAA Tournament participant but a school which is always tied down with postseason plans.
And how about Jim, who took exception to my definition of Detroit in a Dre' Bly comment.
"I hope you are referring to the Lions organization when you say "a dump named Detroit"."
BGT: Jim, I know people from Detroit and the way you ask your question, well, you have me locking doors, closing blinds, wishing I had a gun.
When I was calling Bly out for his phoniness and called Detroit a dump, yes, I was referring to the Lions' organization.
Do I still get my legs broken?
Rub my eyes
I wouldn't make this up so humor me for a moment -- read today that some NBA scout, in discussing the Greg Oden or Kevin Durant choice as the best prospect, said Oden is like Hakeem Olajuwon while Durant is a better Tracy McGrady.
Oh brother, a better McGrady? T-Mac flipped off college for the pro game and was good enough to become a star but Durant dominated the NCAA's as a scorer and rebounder. To minimize him and say he is only another McGrady is insulting because freshman don't often just show up and play like NBA guys right out of the gate. And Oden as Olajuwon? That's just delusional. Oden is an excellent shot blocker and rebounder, even with one hand, and he scored very well for those limitations but he lacks the fluidity, explosion and skills The Dream had. Oden might become a star at the next level but he will never have Olajuwon's game. And honestly, as I wrote here before, is Greg O. better than other past college big men like Patrick Ewing, Shaquille O'Neal, David Robinson or Tim Duncan?
By the way, that's a rhetorical question.
Rant over. Thanks for coming, drive home safely.
That time appears to be now, as in this weekend in Atlanta at the Final Four, according to B.G. Brooks of the Rocky Mountain News.
If the offer is made and Bzdelik accepts as expected, start the parade as rebirth of Buffs' basketball can begin. Regardless of whether CU really went nationwide in its' search for a replacement for Ricardo Patton and whether Bzdelik is the right fit in Boulder, he is unquestionably the hottest hire the program has ever made for the program.
Who knows what CU will be next season on the floor but this much would be a given with Bzdelik as coach -- structure would be evident, fundamentals a strength, defensive intensity would puzzle fans and media and the offense would resemble a system. Wins would also occur more frequently.
Bzdelik would inherit Patton's talent but would need to find some playable size or suffer the consequences next season.
The fans are tired of waiting and talking about "who's it going to be." Buffs' athletic director Mike Bohn getting his guy would put a big smile on his face and get this, on the faces of many at the school, even professors as Bzdelik is a no-nonsense leader who wants strong students and leaders representing his team.
Players like it
CU recruits like the idea of Bzdelik.
Why?
The resume.
His background.
The winning.
Players want to win.
They will take the yelling, the screaming if something comes out of it.
They want instruction and guidance.
If they get the payoff.
They want to feel good about themselves and especially around their peers on and off campus.
Prescription -- winning.
Them other guys
Arkansas loses out in its' pursuit of Texas A & M chemist Billy Gillispie as the Aggies' coach has decided to remain in College Station. Big coup for an up-and-coming program and a embarrassing rejection for Razorback fans. Hard to imagine A & M as a more attractive place than Fayetteville these days.
Letters
Greg comments on assistant coaches for the next staff at Colorado.
"(Jeff) Bzdelik needs to find an assistant coach who can develop relationships with Colorado high school coaches. We have been losing too many good players (Nick Fazekas, Matt Bouldin, Sean Ogirri, and more) to outside programs! I would also like to see a former Buff on the staff. Perhaps Jay Humphries would be interested?"
BGT: Greg, I agree that developing quality relationships with in-state coaches has long been an oversight and imperative so that when the unique local talent comes around, CU is strongly in the mix. However, assistants also need to be able to succeed with the authority given to them in practice by being teachers and they must be able to recruit regionally, if not nationally, with a high rate of return. Humphries is intriguing because he can say CU took him to the NBA but a former Buff is not mandatory to me but recruiting talent farmers and practice teachers are.
Next up is Joe Anonymous, also is talking assistants.
"The ideal candidate would have been a high school coach in Colorado at some point in his career. Bobby Hofman at Fort Lewis is one name that comes to mind. It doesn't hurt that Hofman played at CU, either!"
BGT: Hofman has his fans, chief among them Neill Woelk of the Daily Camera, and yes, you want people invested emotionally in the program, ideally, but I like the idea of focusing more on getting hungry, ethical teachers and recruiters. Then, with that formula and leadership in place watch this program be transformed into something some think not possible, which is a consistent winner. Maybe not Final Four quality or even an annual NCAA Tournament participant but a school which is always tied down with postseason plans.
And how about Jim, who took exception to my definition of Detroit in a Dre' Bly comment.
"I hope you are referring to the Lions organization when you say "a dump named Detroit"."
BGT: Jim, I know people from Detroit and the way you ask your question, well, you have me locking doors, closing blinds, wishing I had a gun.
When I was calling Bly out for his phoniness and called Detroit a dump, yes, I was referring to the Lions' organization.
Do I still get my legs broken?
Rub my eyes
I wouldn't make this up so humor me for a moment -- read today that some NBA scout, in discussing the Greg Oden or Kevin Durant choice as the best prospect, said Oden is like Hakeem Olajuwon while Durant is a better Tracy McGrady.
Oh brother, a better McGrady? T-Mac flipped off college for the pro game and was good enough to become a star but Durant dominated the NCAA's as a scorer and rebounder. To minimize him and say he is only another McGrady is insulting because freshman don't often just show up and play like NBA guys right out of the gate. And Oden as Olajuwon? That's just delusional. Oden is an excellent shot blocker and rebounder, even with one hand, and he scored very well for those limitations but he lacks the fluidity, explosion and skills The Dream had. Oden might become a star at the next level but he will never have Olajuwon's game. And honestly, as I wrote here before, is Greg O. better than other past college big men like Patrick Ewing, Shaquille O'Neal, David Robinson or Tim Duncan?
By the way, that's a rhetorical question.
Rant over. Thanks for coming, drive home safely.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
OU scores early on Buffs; assistant to hire
Colorado broke out the road map last season to recruit and it paid off as the Buffs scored commitments from all over the country. That success has them right back on the road, looking under rocks everywhere for more players, according to Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com.And developments were looking promising for 2008 as hyped quarterback prospect Landry Jones out of New Mexico was ready to decide between Oklahoma and CU.
This was the next building block to go with the most recent class, especially everyone's All-American tackle, Ryan Miller out of Columbine.
Then the news broke -- Jones picked the Sooners (see picture to the right)
Now honestly, the Buffs can't compete with OU on many levels but CU should be attractive for the excitement brewing in Boulder, Boise State's success which was stoked into a fire by Buffs' coach Dan Hawkins, and the opportunity to play early. All of that proved insufficient reasons, however, for Jones to come to CU to compete with Cody Hawkins, Matt Ballenger and Nick Nelson.
Yes, the Sooners are all that glitters, high profile and have the court evidence of having rolled off some successful QBs (Josh Heupel, Jason White and even, to some degree, Paul Thompson) and big seasons but remember this, some touted names have also gone to Norman and went broke -- Tommy Grady (prep All American to nobody to Utah Ute) and Rhett Bomar (your-money-for-nothing-and-your-chicks-for-free guy now playing at some small school in the weeds in Texas).
Jones would have had to prove himself superior to Cody Hawkins to play but as I've been told by those in the know in recruiting, great talents always believe themselves the best. Confidence is not an issue.
If the Buffs could have added a player of Jones' stature to the position and early in the recruiting cycle, it would have been another significant moon step towards a move back into an old neighborhood -- the top 25.
A tough spring loss for the Buffs' brain trust and architects. Jones may not know this but he'll have significant competition at OU. He does have the talent to win out and show the Buffs what they almost had, sort of like Carson Palmer, who once reportedly picked Southern California over CU, or Casey Clausen, who went for the Tennessee orange over the black and gold of the Buffs.
There will, however, be fallout for the Sooners as incoming freshman Keith Nichol is thought to be an impact player and Joey Halzle, a junior college transfer, is also an under-the-radar find.
After Jones arrives on campus, expect one transfer.
Obvious is obvious
Not saying Jeff Bzdelik is a done deal as the next head basketball coach at Colorado but heard the team is practicing saying his name like they're learning a foreign language. Buzz-deli-ick. Bzzzzzzzzzz-dell like the computer-ick. Biz-del-ik. The Buffs are also wondering if they are going to have to salute come practice and go through actual practice drills or something.
It will be heartwarming when these poor orphans finally get a daddy. Athletic director Mike Bohn is trying to find the perfect man who will encourage, discipline, love, get his kids involved in sports and even shoot around with them.
Hallway gossip
A story in the Sporting News brought up an old name in Kevin O'Neill, who once was a top assistant at Arizona and head coach at Tennessee and Northwestern. Currently collecting checks in the NBA as as assistant, TSN gave credit to O'Neill as a premier defensive tactician and recruiter (look at the names he lured to UA), leading me to wonder how brilliant a hire he could be as an assistant on the Colorado staff, if the money was decent at all. Why would he do such a thing? If Jeff Bzdelik is indeed Buffs' athletic director Mike Bohn's honey bunch, then O'Neill could really score his bank account in a few years agreeing to an alliance with one promising coach. It would also be the vitamin B-12 shot in the arm for recruiting that CU needs for advancement in the mean streets of the Big 12.
Did you hear
Future Kansas State basketball impact player Michael Beasley lit it up at the McDonald's All-American game. Wildcats' coach Bob Huggins appears to be on the up-and-up so far in Manhattan and is doing an impressive job getting that program back to being a player on a national level.
New rule being passed down, not by the NCAA, but by coaches everywhere -- buy your buddies pizza, beer, whatever but don't be going Moving Guy and hurtin' the team! Poor Kenny Wilson will never hear the end of it.
Arkansas is not dumb. They're trying but they may not be pretty enough. Maybe that one over there, Kentucky, is for Texas A & M coach Billy Gillispie. The Aggies boss is a wanted man, how sweet it is, and while he might secretly have a thang' for the Hogs, he likely wants what few can have, the Wildcats.
Washington State didn't make it to the Final 4 but they did something almost as good -- keeping coach Tony Bennett. The man has to prove he can recruit but if he does he's smart enough to win a lot of games in Pullman. Big victory for the Cougars' administration and fans.
Call me ugly -- again, if you must, but political correctness is just something I don't get nor tolerate. What country do we live in? We, as a nation, jam violence and overt sexuality down our children's throats but some guy, not using all the discretion he should, gets emotional in a moment and we overreact to that mild stupidity as if it were fact and are suddenly looking to line up the firing squad. Are those comments really hateful or just a case of a mouth off the leash. Trust me, if the worst anyone is going to call me is "crafty" then count me in because I can share so much more that's been said about me and no one ever got fired over it. I've even been called far worse in letters here. Hey, back in the day, even had a boss repeatedly call me a fag on one job before I, well, body checked him when he tried to kick me. And I'm guessin' but not confessin' that I've called others worse than "crafty" once or twice in this life, although never the things others have spewed my way.
The backyard
What a deceitful punk new Broncos' cornerback Dre' Bly is, wouldn't you say? Guy gets traded out of a dump named Detroit to one of the better organizations in pro football, acts like he is Champ Bailey, infers he is not excited about being in town (he'll deny it now) and now that he gets a contract extension worth, according to ESPN.com, $ 33 million, he's good to go. Giddy up! Dude might be an above-average defensive back but his first act as a Bronco, well, he gets panned. What a fraud. Can hardly wait for the spin coming -- "oh man, I was always excited about coming here, you know? It was all about the media distorting like they do, stirring it up, you know? My teammates will see, I'm amped to be gettin' paid, um, I mean, being a Nugget, or Rockie or Bronco, whatever. What city do they play in again?"
Is there a more dysfunctional team in the NBA than the Nuggets? There are coaches doing so much more with so much less than George Karl has in Denver. What happened to Allen Iverson? Marcus Camby? And why is Carmelo Anthony dogging it everywhere but scoring the ball? Nene is back roughing it up but this group needs some tough love. Sorry, but you can't ignore the signs. See that road sign? Divorce, 12 games. Someone's leaving town. Maybe not Karl, yet, but someone. The front office has seen enough and the money man, Stan Kroenke has too, to warrant some serious punishment.
Rockies' management is selling it again, how good this team will be, sans pitching I will add. Yet the Sporting News has that powerhouse of a franchise ranked 25th out of 30 teams this season. Oh, don't me wrong, I love the potential of the positional players and think Colorado could be exciting to watch but unless Jeff Francis wins 20, Aaron Cook proves healthy and top-of-the-rotation quality and newbie Jason Hirsh busts out, this will be another little brother team.
To make up for ripping those poor home boys, here's some pictures for you. After looking at them, I'm thinking I have to try to grow a 'stache like Cook or go even more grand and get some Todd Helton-esque facial hair.
Trippin' the news
Talk about losing the golden ticket -- check this out. To be so close to the throne and then to drop the ball and lose the right of succession has to be a devastating business defeat. Wife says "game over."
Have to ask, what kind of chump lawyer did former major-league pitcher Ugueth Urbina hire? The man is rich and famous and got justice served to him. That doesn't happen in the United States, it just doesn't. Money talks, truth walks. Oh yeah, Urbina will get housed because the trial was in Venezuela. Guy lives in the wrong country for being powerful and getting a free legal pass.
And we wonder why those in power, especially some athletes, continue to get in legal hot water. For those not paying attention in class, it's call e-n-a-b-l-i-n-g. At the risk of offending here, lawyers, by rule, well, not the most moral, decent people (read, whores). Once again, money talks, truth walks, buy the t-shirt.
Want a glimpse into a mind of a winning athlete? One of the best ever at his position in his sport? Even if it is hockey, which makes me want to hit the snooze button, this is interesting. Here it is, on the house. What caught my eye was Dominik Hasek's intensity and high standards as well as how he defines success.
LeBron James, apparently, ain't all that, according to some. Good read on the "why."
For you Chicago Bears' fans, get over it. If linebacker Lance Briggs wants out, quit holding on to wait you can't have and help the brother achieve the goal, which is getting out of town, especially if Washington will consider coughing up the sixth overall pick in the draft. That's a no brainer. Briggs is outstanding but he's not a future legend. At no. 6 in the annual talent grab, the Bears could do something good, especially for that weak offense, like possibly packaging a future first-round selection and some other high picks this year for some cat who played quarterback down the road in South Bend, Indiana or a wide receiver everyone is slobbering all over, Calvin Johnson of Georgia Tech.
Check it out if you haven't yet -- CU sports information director Dave Plati is back writing. Look for his digging on Buffs' Steve Rosga, one fantastic talent out of Minnesota and Clint Moles, a huge tackle out of Florida, right here. Wonder if Rosga can help me increase my explosion off the couch and to the refrigerator with some training. As for Moles, all I know is I count him, Ron Woolfork, Spencer Colter and Kanavis McGee as high school coaches now.
Truth
Getting personal with defensive line; Bzdelik
Thinking pig and fall afternoons.Not quite the beach and half-clothed beauties but maybe the next best thing.
While everyone is chewing fingernails over Colorado's offense the BGT is hungry to find out what the defense is going to do in 2007 and that all starts with the men slugging it out on the line.
The Buffs could do far worse than George Hypolite and Brandon Nicolas but who else is going to be consistently breaking down doors of offenses inside? That is one important test question.
Hypolite and Nicolas might become one of the best interior tandems in school history but depth is mandatory.
Next, where is the pass rush coming from? The defensive backs want to know.
Abraham Wright has left the building. Is some Kansan named Drew Hudgins the answer? Is raw-as-grocery store-meat Conrad Obi a diamond-to-be? Will someone who has been marinating in the program for a season prove dirt tough and defiant to offensive lineman's attempts to block him, say Marquez Herrod? Or will Mo Lucas juice up the engine to become the quarterback hunter he's expected to be at CU?
The Buffs need this unit to be nasty and rough and productive if it is going to give the defense a chance to do good things. The offense needs them even more.
It's over
Air Force's breakout season has come to an end with a 68-67 loss to Clemson in the NIT at Madison Square Garden.
Think CU athletic director Mike Bohn and Falcons' coach Jeff Bzdelik are having breakfast in bed today?
Croissants and a contract offer.
What a way to wake up.
Air Force athletic director Hans Mueh has already shown signs of not handling the breakup well. Rumors of Bzdelik leaving him for another have been out there for so long and Mueh likely feels humiliated. Not gonna be pretty on the day when the coach says breaks it off with him.
"Really, it's not you, it's me."
Someone always feels jilted, always gets hurt.
Bohn just pulled up curbside, all flashy and confident and told Bzdelik, "get in and let's roll."
The coach smiled, obviously intrigued. Now all he has to do is decide this is it for him. He likes the idea of trading excitement for stability, doesn't want to hurt his soon-to-be ex but knows he wants what he wants.
Orange nuggets
O.K., let's move quick...
Jeff Green of Georgetown, a wonderful talent, an NBA player but certainly not a future All Star as everyone is making him out to be. Man, can the media blow up anyone and everyone to be Superman or what.
Seth Davis of CNNSI.com threw out his favorites for coaching vacancies, which left me going "huh?" Tom Crean moving from Marquette to Kentucky? Nope. Not a glamorous enough hire for those bluebloods.
Chris Lowery leaving Southern Illinois for Arkansas? Would be a potentially fantastic hire for the Hogs and could go down. I'd say UK should look at him before Arkansas does but his defense-first approach would likely not fly in Lexington. And, for that thing I wrote about earlier this week, well, don't discount it -- it is Kentucky, after all.
Davis picks Creighton's Dana Altman to end up at Iowa, which sounds good to me.
But Lon Kruger at Michigan just doesn't work. Why leave Vegas for a job that is better on paper than in reality. Truth is Kruger is wayyyyy too good for that job. And relocating from the sun of the desert for Ann Arbor? Now, if the money was in unmarked bills and filled a phone booth, maybe Boulder could be attractive. Kruger's collegiate track record is superior to Air Force's Jeff Bzdelik no matter how not-gonna-happen-at-CU Kruger is, although a nice daydream.
Just in -- Ricardo Patton has asked for a contract extension at Northern Illinois. Says he's doing more with nothing than anyone in the country.
Interesting how Patton gets respect, we hear, from Texas' Rick Barnes, Indiana's Bob Knight and Indiana's Kelvin Sampson and yet all that love earns him a job at a place that would be difficult find, even with a map.
In the backyard
Quite the offseason the Broncos are having -- two deaths, taking Jake Plummer out to the curb for trash day, exporting Tatum Bell and George Foster, trying to do the same to Al Wilson and now Brandon Marshall, a rising star, getting cuffed for a little no-no called false imprisonment and domestic violence. That said, let's not judge him too harshly until more comes out as sometimes chicks get on the crazy train, think Joumana Kidd, and do wild things when their fuse gets lit, making up their own reality. If Marshall is indeed guilty, however, coach Mike Shanahan might need to make receiver a higher priority than it already is come draft time. Regardless, those Broncos have a hell of a start on a reality show or soap opera script, don't they?
One underrated guy, Keith Burns, has called it quits with Denver to help coach special teams, a skill he was best known for, to the point you forgot he was a linebacker when he entered the league from the old poke school, Oklahoma State. The man made one tall stack of money solely because he passionately and effectively played special teams, something for young, athletic one-trick ponies to remember.
Hall-of-Fame baseball writer Tracy Ringolsby of the Rocky Mountain News, writing in Baseball America, thinks that by 2010, the Rockies' starting rotation will be upside down, with Aaron Cook going from the opening day selection to tail gunner, telling you all you need to know about Cook's legitimacy as an anchor for the seed throwers this season. Jeff Francis is projected to be second in line in three years with newcomer Jason Hirsch in the middle, last year's top pick -- Greg Reynolds -- at number four, another indictment on the front office and Cook being replaced at the top by, get this, strong-armed but ball-spraying Franklin Morales, he of little control.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Scenic drive
A morning of no warming up, just quick hitters on the college and pro front, from Fort Collins to Boulder and down in the big city.
The backyard
Have to give new Colorado State basketball coach Tim Miles credit -- he has an amped-up personality, which should work with players and fans. Take a look at him here, courtesy of Tony Phifer of the Coloradoan. Just wondering about the credibility of anyone who would equate CSU with Duke, North Carolina or even Minnesota.
And how many coaches are more concerned about hockey than football taking away from their program?
The Nuggets are obviously having one of those seasons, this time having Rasheed Wallace, yes, Rasheed Wallace hitting a 60-footer at the end of regulation to send the game with Detroit into overtime, where -- Denver lost. And if that wasn't bad enough, former Nuggets Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess chewed up their former team and spit them out with Billups scoring 34 and handing out 10 assists and McDyess totaled 20 points and 11 rebounds. Can't we just pack up this toy and put it away until next season?
That said, Nene is playing like a man again, Marcus Camby showed up healthy and dominant and J.R. Smith looked like he did earlier in the season. This team doesn't lack talent, just chemistry, which means the difference between mediocre and good.
Call me crazy, and I am, that's o.k., but a great hire (and it ain't gonna happen) for CU would be soon-to-be-fired Doc Rivers of the Boston Celtics -- intelligent, strong communicator, and successful before hitting the daycare he's in charge of now. Hey, maybe Jeff Bzdelik throws the Buffs a curve and says "you talking to me?" Maybe he doesn't end up with the job. A longshot development but crazier things have happened.
Baseball America, like Dayn Perry of FoxSports.com, loves the Rockies young talent. Most of it is volatile stock but just having names on the list means the franchise is doing good things. Here's some insight to pack away for you, from the names mentioned in BA, a gift from your resident baseball analyst, the BGT. Blue chips -- Troy Tulowitzki, Chris Iannetta and if he works like Matt Holliday, Ian Stewart too. High risk -- Greg Reynolds, Jason Hirsch, Ubaldo Jimenez, Franklin Morales and Dexter Fowler.
Early draft thoughts -- Denver better realize that, despite it's glaring need for a pass rusher, this is Jay Cutler's team now and you better surround him with talent at tackle (Matt Lepsis is coming off of injury and the other end is no sure thing either) and wide receiver (Rod Smith is cooked) while also adding running back depth behind Travis Henry and Mike Bell. With Dan Reeves no longer at Broncos' HQ, at least there won't be any more mandatory urinalysis required decisions like the selection of Tommy Maddox.
Big 12
Want some notes? Here's one for you -- remember the name Bobby Reid, quarterback, Oklahoma State. Had a breakout season a year ago and has Kordell Stewart written all over him. The Cowboys are coming on strong, loaded with offensive firepower.
Oh, you want Buff notes. O.K., let me dig around for one here. How 'bout this -- try it on and see what you think. Demetrius Sumler is your frontrunner to start at running back for CU, not Hugh Charles nor anyone else. Charles will split time and get incorporated in other ways, as he's a big play waiting to happen but coach Dan Hawkins needs a durable, powerful, productive mule and Sumler is likely that guy. Thomas Perez helped make this a bigger reality but sidelining himself with academics this spring.
Need more?
Would you believe that Arizona State transfer quarterback Sam Keller, now at Nebraska, is not going to step in and become All-Big 12? Would you consider the possibility his head is BIG and he will be good, sometimes better than good, rarely great and the Huskers will suffer because of it? Yeah, Nebraska is going to be right there contending for the top spot in the North division of the Big 12 but despite their ever-expanding wealth of talent, the chemistry hasn't been proven and the coaching staff, while solid, doesn't have the impeccable resume, yet.
On the streets
With John Calipari signing an extension with Memphis and Billy Donovan not leaving Florida for Kentucky (it's a lock not to happen), the Wildcats are going to have re-sight the hunt for a coach to replace world class sprinter Tubby Smith, who raced out of Lexington in record time, for Minnesota.
UK will get an outstanding coach but that guy better be careful what he wishes for as that job is no beautiful-girl, sunny-weather, sweet-kisses picnic.
Please, not again. The west coast the home of yet another diva? That could be a possibility, writes the San Francisco Chronicle, which thinks Alex Rodriguez could one day become a Giant. How intolerable would that be, A-Rod following Barry Bonds, one of the most insufferable athletes ever.
The backyard
Have to give new Colorado State basketball coach Tim Miles credit -- he has an amped-up personality, which should work with players and fans. Take a look at him here, courtesy of Tony Phifer of the Coloradoan. Just wondering about the credibility of anyone who would equate CSU with Duke, North Carolina or even Minnesota.
And how many coaches are more concerned about hockey than football taking away from their program?
The Nuggets are obviously having one of those seasons, this time having Rasheed Wallace, yes, Rasheed Wallace hitting a 60-footer at the end of regulation to send the game with Detroit into overtime, where -- Denver lost. And if that wasn't bad enough, former Nuggets Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess chewed up their former team and spit them out with Billups scoring 34 and handing out 10 assists and McDyess totaled 20 points and 11 rebounds. Can't we just pack up this toy and put it away until next season?
That said, Nene is playing like a man again, Marcus Camby showed up healthy and dominant and J.R. Smith looked like he did earlier in the season. This team doesn't lack talent, just chemistry, which means the difference between mediocre and good.
Call me crazy, and I am, that's o.k., but a great hire (and it ain't gonna happen) for CU would be soon-to-be-fired Doc Rivers of the Boston Celtics -- intelligent, strong communicator, and successful before hitting the daycare he's in charge of now. Hey, maybe Jeff Bzdelik throws the Buffs a curve and says "you talking to me?" Maybe he doesn't end up with the job. A longshot development but crazier things have happened.
Baseball America, like Dayn Perry of FoxSports.com, loves the Rockies young talent. Most of it is volatile stock but just having names on the list means the franchise is doing good things. Here's some insight to pack away for you, from the names mentioned in BA, a gift from your resident baseball analyst, the BGT. Blue chips -- Troy Tulowitzki, Chris Iannetta and if he works like Matt Holliday, Ian Stewart too. High risk -- Greg Reynolds, Jason Hirsch, Ubaldo Jimenez, Franklin Morales and Dexter Fowler.
Early draft thoughts -- Denver better realize that, despite it's glaring need for a pass rusher, this is Jay Cutler's team now and you better surround him with talent at tackle (Matt Lepsis is coming off of injury and the other end is no sure thing either) and wide receiver (Rod Smith is cooked) while also adding running back depth behind Travis Henry and Mike Bell. With Dan Reeves no longer at Broncos' HQ, at least there won't be any more mandatory urinalysis required decisions like the selection of Tommy Maddox.
Big 12
Want some notes? Here's one for you -- remember the name Bobby Reid, quarterback, Oklahoma State. Had a breakout season a year ago and has Kordell Stewart written all over him. The Cowboys are coming on strong, loaded with offensive firepower.
Oh, you want Buff notes. O.K., let me dig around for one here. How 'bout this -- try it on and see what you think. Demetrius Sumler is your frontrunner to start at running back for CU, not Hugh Charles nor anyone else. Charles will split time and get incorporated in other ways, as he's a big play waiting to happen but coach Dan Hawkins needs a durable, powerful, productive mule and Sumler is likely that guy. Thomas Perez helped make this a bigger reality but sidelining himself with academics this spring.
Need more?
Would you believe that Arizona State transfer quarterback Sam Keller, now at Nebraska, is not going to step in and become All-Big 12? Would you consider the possibility his head is BIG and he will be good, sometimes better than good, rarely great and the Huskers will suffer because of it? Yeah, Nebraska is going to be right there contending for the top spot in the North division of the Big 12 but despite their ever-expanding wealth of talent, the chemistry hasn't been proven and the coaching staff, while solid, doesn't have the impeccable resume, yet.
On the streets
With John Calipari signing an extension with Memphis and Billy Donovan not leaving Florida for Kentucky (it's a lock not to happen), the Wildcats are going to have re-sight the hunt for a coach to replace world class sprinter Tubby Smith, who raced out of Lexington in record time, for Minnesota.
UK will get an outstanding coach but that guy better be careful what he wishes for as that job is no beautiful-girl, sunny-weather, sweet-kisses picnic.
Please, not again. The west coast the home of yet another diva? That could be a possibility, writes the San Francisco Chronicle, which thinks Alex Rodriguez could one day become a Giant. How intolerable would that be, A-Rod following Barry Bonds, one of the most insufferable athletes ever.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Tar Heels quit; the streets
No surprise that Florida, UCLA and Ohio State are heading to Atlanta for the Final 4 but Georgetown?
Yes, the Hoyas were an outstanding team this season but not many would have predicted North Carolina's defense being unplugged all day long against the Big East Frankenstein.
Have to confess -- thought the Tar Heels were bigger, more confident, had more striking power and the composure advantage.
I was wrong.
The four remaining teams now promise to put on a fireworks' show. Florida trying to repeat as champions, loaded with experience, size and coaching against UCLA, which was spectacular in beating Kansas, looking to win another title to add to its' legendary total. Then Georgetown, coached by the son of a legend, going against the best freshman center and point guard in the land for the up-and-coming Buckeyes.
By the way, those who mention Gators' coach Billy Donovan and Kentucky in the same sentence make me laugh. Why would Donovan leave something wonderful he built for some school where his best would never be good enough. Florida is a better place to work anyway.
The streets
Denver shot 60 percent on the road and beat Lebron James and Cleveland. If that's the Nuggets' formula for success, fantastic, but let's see them do it again. Thinking that's going to be a difficult approach to duplicate.
Nene finally awoke from his slumber to score 21 and yank down nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony was good enough and Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith did their job from the backcourt.
So why am I so bored with that team?
The Rockies annual run at mediocrity begins soon. Get your tickets, get your tickets.
Or get some pitching and make things interesting.
So let me see if I have this down -- the Broncos are willing to give new money to stiffs like defensive lineman Alvin McKinley, formerly of Cleveland and quarterback Patrick Ramsey, formerly of, well, who knows where, but linebacker Al Wilson is an expense they can no longer afford?
And what is up with Denver and large-bodied, small-game defenders? Gerard Warren and Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson were Superman coming out of college but turned out to be skinny producers in the pros, yet the Broncos are enamored of them. Maybe its' like going to a high school reunion, remembering and lusting for the hot girl for how she once was, not how she is now. Denver coach Mike Shanahan must be nostalgic.
Yes, the Hoyas were an outstanding team this season but not many would have predicted North Carolina's defense being unplugged all day long against the Big East Frankenstein.
Have to confess -- thought the Tar Heels were bigger, more confident, had more striking power and the composure advantage.
I was wrong.
The four remaining teams now promise to put on a fireworks' show. Florida trying to repeat as champions, loaded with experience, size and coaching against UCLA, which was spectacular in beating Kansas, looking to win another title to add to its' legendary total. Then Georgetown, coached by the son of a legend, going against the best freshman center and point guard in the land for the up-and-coming Buckeyes.
By the way, those who mention Gators' coach Billy Donovan and Kentucky in the same sentence make me laugh. Why would Donovan leave something wonderful he built for some school where his best would never be good enough. Florida is a better place to work anyway.
The streets
Denver shot 60 percent on the road and beat Lebron James and Cleveland. If that's the Nuggets' formula for success, fantastic, but let's see them do it again. Thinking that's going to be a difficult approach to duplicate.
Nene finally awoke from his slumber to score 21 and yank down nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony was good enough and Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith did their job from the backcourt.
So why am I so bored with that team?
The Rockies annual run at mediocrity begins soon. Get your tickets, get your tickets.
Or get some pitching and make things interesting.
So let me see if I have this down -- the Broncos are willing to give new money to stiffs like defensive lineman Alvin McKinley, formerly of Cleveland and quarterback Patrick Ramsey, formerly of, well, who knows where, but linebacker Al Wilson is an expense they can no longer afford?
And what is up with Denver and large-bodied, small-game defenders? Gerard Warren and Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson were Superman coming out of college but turned out to be skinny producers in the pros, yet the Broncos are enamored of them. Maybe its' like going to a high school reunion, remembering and lusting for the hot girl for how she once was, not how she is now. Denver coach Mike Shanahan must be nostalgic.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
No surprise that Florida, UCLA and Ohio State are heading to Atlanta for the Final 4 but Georgetown?
Yes, the Hoyas were an outstanding team this season but not many would have predicted North Carolina's defense being unplugged all day long against the Big East Frankenstein.
Have to confess -- thought the Tar Heels were bigger, more confident, had more striking power and the composure advantage.
I was wrong.
The four remaining teams now promise to put on a fireworks' show. Florida trying to repeat as champions, loaded with experience, size and coaching against UCLA, which was spectacular in beating Kansas, looking to win another title to add to its' legendary total. Then Georgetown, coached by the son of a legend, going against the best freshman center and point guard in the land for the up-and-coming Buckeyes.
The streets
Denver shot 60 percent on the road and beat Lebron James and Cleveland. If that's the Nuggets' formula for success, fantastic, but let's see them do it again. Thinking that's going to be a difficult approach to duplicate.
Nene finally awoke from his slumber to score 21 and yank down nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony was good enough and Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith did their job from the backcourt.
So why am I so bored with that team?
The Rockies annual run at mediocrity begins soon. Get your tickets, get your tickets.
Or get some pitching and make things interesting.
So let me see if I have this down -- the Broncos are willing to give new money to stiffs like defensive lineman Alvin McKinley, formerly of Cleveland and quarterback Patrick Ramsey, formerly of, well, who knows where, but linebacker Al Wilson is an expense they can no longer afford?
And what is up with Denver and large-bodied, small-game defenders? Gerard Warren and Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson were Superman coming out of college but turned out to be skinny producers in the pros, yet the Broncos are enamored of them. Maybe its' like going to a high school reunion, remembering and lusting for the hot girl for how she once was, not how she is now or remembering friends for the good times, not after they change. Denver coach Mike Shanahan must be nostalgic.
Yes, the Hoyas were an outstanding team this season but not many would have predicted North Carolina's defense being unplugged all day long against the Big East Frankenstein.
Have to confess -- thought the Tar Heels were bigger, more confident, had more striking power and the composure advantage.
I was wrong.
The four remaining teams now promise to put on a fireworks' show. Florida trying to repeat as champions, loaded with experience, size and coaching against UCLA, which was spectacular in beating Kansas, looking to win another title to add to its' legendary total. Then Georgetown, coached by the son of a legend, going against the best freshman center and point guard in the land for the up-and-coming Buckeyes.
The streets
Denver shot 60 percent on the road and beat Lebron James and Cleveland. If that's the Nuggets' formula for success, fantastic, but let's see them do it again. Thinking that's going to be a difficult approach to duplicate.
Nene finally awoke from his slumber to score 21 and yank down nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony was good enough and Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith did their job from the backcourt.
So why am I so bored with that team?
The Rockies annual run at mediocrity begins soon. Get your tickets, get your tickets.
Or get some pitching and make things interesting.
So let me see if I have this down -- the Broncos are willing to give new money to stiffs like defensive lineman Alvin McKinley, formerly of Cleveland and quarterback Patrick Ramsey, formerly of, well, who knows where, but linebacker Al Wilson is an expense they can no longer afford?
And what is up with Denver and large-bodied, small-game defenders? Gerard Warren and Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson were Superman coming out of college but turned out to be skinny producers in the pros, yet the Broncos are enamored of them. Maybe its' like going to a high school reunion, remembering and lusting for the hot girl for how she once was, not how she is now or remembering friends for the good times, not after they change. Denver coach Mike Shanahan must be nostalgic.
Sunday Truth
Jon Major, the big 6-foot-4, 230-pound Parker (Colo.) linebacker from Ponderosa High School is being hounded by college recruiters and now can brag on 27 scholarship offers, according to Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com.
How heart-pumping a sight it would be to see the big thumper in a Colorado uniform, becoming another elite state player to believe in Buffs' coach Dan Hawkins' vision.
The questions that beg asking here are is Major truly open to staying in state and two, what will CU have to show him this fall to make that decision the one to make.
It might be too much to ask to get a "yes" from a another premier talent (see Ryan Miller) coming off another terrible season.
Would six wins and an exciting brand of play do the trick? Would an upset over a ranked team sell Major when he will likely have his pick of powerhouse schools?
You have insight, don't be shy, get off the wall and bring it. This is your place to be heard and respected. No bar-room insults thrown in this saloon.
Hittin' the field
Colorado State will get a real charge for not only its' offense but the whole team when running back Kyle Bell proves healthy. His loss a season go was too much to bear as the Rams had no dependable alternative at his position.
The 6-foot-2, 226-pound bruiser is a difference-maker if the repair work on his body sticks by the school-accredited mechanics. He's that pack mule CSU can load up and ride, making life a lot easier for quarterback Caleb Hannie.
Laying it down
Florida is too big, too experienced, better on defense and too much for a solid Oregon team and North Carolina will scrap out another win and deny Georgetown's advancement on Atlanta.
Ain't no lie
The Big 12 has been vanquished from the NCAA Tournament as Kansas was dismantled by UCLA's defense while allowing the Bruins to also shoot lights out from the floor in an Elite 8 matchup. Brandon Rush, a supposed defensive stalwart was thoroughly undone by UCLA's Arron Afflalo.
Said before the tournament that, despite the records, there were no dominant teams in college basketball this season. That has been proven in March. Yet the better teams keep finding ways to win and advance, which shows how important know-how and intestinal fortitude mean and how far all that goes toward victory. The margin for error, even for no. 1 seeds, is slimmer than slim, razor thin.
Enough already! Greg Oden shows flashes for dominance, no doubt, and he has played with one hand and there simply aren't enough great centers around but he is not anywhere near as polished and ready to roll out and star in the NBA like Kevin Durant is -- case closed. Think of Oden as more Dwight Howard for now, an excellent player, but not The Boss.
Oden is good and he's going to get better but give me a young Akeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O'Neal, David Robinson or Patrick Ewing. See the point? Oden just seems to be missing that necessity for greatness -- passion, hunger, whatever you want to call it. He certainly doesn't lack athleticism, skill or potential.
John Calipari should be one of Kentucky's top desires to replace Tubby Smith, who jetted out of Lexington for some northern outpost. Why? Calipari's track record of success, recruiting ability and maybe most of all his confidence/arrogance, which all coaches need at UK to deal with the Wildcats' fans and their sense of entitlement. Rick Pitino had it, Calipari has it.
On the streets
Is it just me or are Colorado State and Wyoming shopping from the bargain bin, hiring Tim Miles and Heath Schroyer to head their respective basketball programs? Not saying those two aren't fine men and won't be upgrades over their predecessors but neither inspire much confidence and excitement from the fan bases. Good luck selling tickets. For an alternative point of view, look how Minnesota fans are acting like they are in the promised land now in response to the hiring of Tubby Smith. You'd think Phil Jackson or John Wooden were taking over the Gophers.
The good news? The Colorado Rockies won't be any worse than they were last year and general manager Dan O'Dowd and skipper Clint Hurdle will retain their jobs come 2008. Will the team be better? Maybe, if it stays healthy, the young players take a step forward and the pitching surprises (don't hold your breath). A lot to ask but certainly possible. O'Dowd has done an excellent job building the farm system, which is producing quality position-player prospects, something it rarely has done in the past. Now, some pitchers have to emerge as top-quality prospects. The book is still out on that, especially on the starters.
What this team still lacks is not more sinkerballer pitchers but that dominating power broker on the mound. Yet, last June, the Rockies passed on both lefthander Andrew Miller of North Carolina (over signability concerns), who went to Detroit and another lefty, Clayton Kershaw from a Texas high school, who ended up with the Los Angeles Dodgers. That's how bad teams stay bad -- the Colorado Cubs.
The real deal on Broncos' linebacker Al Wilson is Denver management either thinks he is damaged goods or isn't making enough plays for them, not that his salary is too much to bear. After trying to dump him off to the New York Giants, one might think reconciliation between Wilson and the Broncos might be too difficult, no matter what the two parties spin in public. We'll have to see what goes down as the draft approaches and then mini-camp.
The question
Should CU athletic director Mike Bohn be talking to the long list of outstanding coaches who's teams have been bounced from the postseason or is Jeff Bzdelik just too good to turn your back on?
That's one tough question here, even for one who greatly respects Bzdelik's accomplishments.
Check my eyesight
Think I'm ugly? Check out Charley Rosen here. Dude is delusional on LeBron James. And you think all his chatter on James is sick, read on to see what Rosen says about college basketball compared to the pro game. Then make an appointment and come see me. We'll talk. Warning you, Rosen is wild and out there, which I like, but his medication probably should be changed, one way or another. Just can't tell if he needs a higher or lesser dose. Although, I do wonder if his reasoning is why college coaches struggle to be effective in the NBA.
How heart-pumping a sight it would be to see the big thumper in a Colorado uniform, becoming another elite state player to believe in Buffs' coach Dan Hawkins' vision.
The questions that beg asking here are is Major truly open to staying in state and two, what will CU have to show him this fall to make that decision the one to make.
It might be too much to ask to get a "yes" from a another premier talent (see Ryan Miller) coming off another terrible season.
Would six wins and an exciting brand of play do the trick? Would an upset over a ranked team sell Major when he will likely have his pick of powerhouse schools?
You have insight, don't be shy, get off the wall and bring it. This is your place to be heard and respected. No bar-room insults thrown in this saloon.
Hittin' the field
Colorado State will get a real charge for not only its' offense but the whole team when running back Kyle Bell proves healthy. His loss a season go was too much to bear as the Rams had no dependable alternative at his position.
The 6-foot-2, 226-pound bruiser is a difference-maker if the repair work on his body sticks by the school-accredited mechanics. He's that pack mule CSU can load up and ride, making life a lot easier for quarterback Caleb Hannie.
Laying it down
Florida is too big, too experienced, better on defense and too much for a solid Oregon team and North Carolina will scrap out another win and deny Georgetown's advancement on Atlanta.
Ain't no lie
The Big 12 has been vanquished from the NCAA Tournament as Kansas was dismantled by UCLA's defense while allowing the Bruins to also shoot lights out from the floor in an Elite 8 matchup. Brandon Rush, a supposed defensive stalwart was thoroughly undone by UCLA's Arron Afflalo.
Said before the tournament that, despite the records, there were no dominant teams in college basketball this season. That has been proven in March. Yet the better teams keep finding ways to win and advance, which shows how important know-how and intestinal fortitude mean and how far all that goes toward victory. The margin for error, even for no. 1 seeds, is slimmer than slim, razor thin.
Enough already! Greg Oden shows flashes for dominance, no doubt, and he has played with one hand and there simply aren't enough great centers around but he is not anywhere near as polished and ready to roll out and star in the NBA like Kevin Durant is -- case closed. Think of Oden as more Dwight Howard for now, an excellent player, but not The Boss.
Oden is good and he's going to get better but give me a young Akeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O'Neal, David Robinson or Patrick Ewing. See the point? Oden just seems to be missing that necessity for greatness -- passion, hunger, whatever you want to call it. He certainly doesn't lack athleticism, skill or potential.
John Calipari should be one of Kentucky's top desires to replace Tubby Smith, who jetted out of Lexington for some northern outpost. Why? Calipari's track record of success, recruiting ability and maybe most of all his confidence/arrogance, which all coaches need at UK to deal with the Wildcats' fans and their sense of entitlement. Rick Pitino had it, Calipari has it.
On the streets
Is it just me or are Colorado State and Wyoming shopping from the bargain bin, hiring Tim Miles and Heath Schroyer to head their respective basketball programs? Not saying those two aren't fine men and won't be upgrades over their predecessors but neither inspire much confidence and excitement from the fan bases. Good luck selling tickets. For an alternative point of view, look how Minnesota fans are acting like they are in the promised land now in response to the hiring of Tubby Smith. You'd think Phil Jackson or John Wooden were taking over the Gophers.
The good news? The Colorado Rockies won't be any worse than they were last year and general manager Dan O'Dowd and skipper Clint Hurdle will retain their jobs come 2008. Will the team be better? Maybe, if it stays healthy, the young players take a step forward and the pitching surprises (don't hold your breath). A lot to ask but certainly possible. O'Dowd has done an excellent job building the farm system, which is producing quality position-player prospects, something it rarely has done in the past. Now, some pitchers have to emerge as top-quality prospects. The book is still out on that, especially on the starters.
What this team still lacks is not more sinkerballer pitchers but that dominating power broker on the mound. Yet, last June, the Rockies passed on both lefthander Andrew Miller of North Carolina (over signability concerns), who went to Detroit and another lefty, Clayton Kershaw from a Texas high school, who ended up with the Los Angeles Dodgers. That's how bad teams stay bad -- the Colorado Cubs.
The real deal on Broncos' linebacker Al Wilson is Denver management either thinks he is damaged goods or isn't making enough plays for them, not that his salary is too much to bear. After trying to dump him off to the New York Giants, one might think reconciliation between Wilson and the Broncos might be too difficult, no matter what the two parties spin in public. We'll have to see what goes down as the draft approaches and then mini-camp.
The question
Should CU athletic director Mike Bohn be talking to the long list of outstanding coaches who's teams have been bounced from the postseason or is Jeff Bzdelik just too good to turn your back on?
That's one tough question here, even for one who greatly respects Bzdelik's accomplishments.
Check my eyesight
Think I'm ugly? Check out Charley Rosen here. Dude is delusional on LeBron James. And you think all his chatter on James is sick, read on to see what Rosen says about college basketball compared to the pro game. Then make an appointment and come see me. We'll talk. Warning you, Rosen is wild and out there, which I like, but his medication probably should be changed, one way or another. Just can't tell if he needs a higher or lesser dose. Although, I do wonder if his reasoning is why college coaches struggle to be effective in the NBA.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
The reasons
A little sampling going on today, from basketball to letters to pro sports.
Why Bzdelik
If Colorado does go ahead and hire Air Force coach Jeff Bzdelik, here could be the laundry list of reasons why he ended up being the pick.
Interesting to me how much flak Tubby Smith has received in the press lately. No wonder he skipped town to go to -- Minnesota?
Let me get over the shock of Smith's relocation plans for a moment. I will say that from all the attacks against Smith you'd think the man never won a thing at the collegiate level. All those victories at Tulsa, Georgia and Kentucky were just a joke, I guess. A national championship? Yeah, that was all smoke and mirrors, too. Smith couldn't coach himself out of paper bag.
All that criticism must have got to him, too as he went muy loco by going igloo hunting into Canada South to coach some basketball in Minnesota. That's the best he could do? They'll love him there but a very sad ending for all his contributions to UK, even if he never was Adolph Rupp or Rick Pitino.
A lot of names might be mentioned to replace Smith, amongst them Rick Barnes of Texas and Billy Gillispie of Texas A & M. The BGT says Barnes has his own sweet set up at Texas and that school will do all it can to keep him. Gillispie could definitely be a leading candidate, though. Other possible matches include John Calipari of Memphis and Mark Few of Gonzaga. Maybe even Anthony Grant of Virginia Commonwealth.
Ready for a bold nugget?
Forget me mentioning Grant or other quality prospects like Chris Lowery of Southern Illinois or Karl Hobbs of George Washington. UK felt it took a chance on Smith, a black coach, and despite him winning a national championship and an awful lot of games, he didn't live up to the school standard for achievement so the Wildcats won't hire a black coach anytime soon, no matter how successful.
Hey, don't rail against the messenger. It's Kentucky! I've never been a part of all the South's skeletons.
Letters
This one from that big family with the surname "Anonymous," who asks what if Air Force coach Jeff Bzdelik prefers staying put at the academy or ends up somewhere else, what then for CU athletic director Mike Bohn?
"If Bzdelik falls through, will Bohn turn to Mike Dunlap again?"
BGT: I'm afraid Dunlap is yesterday's news. Whatever the reasons for him pulling his name from consideration for the job, both he and CU have moved on, likely to never go out romancing one another again. If, for some reason, Bzdelik does not end up with his name on the position, the Buffs have plenty of other options. The question that would then loom large would be -- would anyone of stature desire the job? Personally, I'd like to think so but that's my opinion. What is the perception of Colorado from outside state lines? We'd quickly find out.
Anyway, in a completely unrelated note, wondering when Bohn and Northern Illinois are going to put together a CU-UNI game.
Why are you laughing?
Next letter comes from Dan, who thinks I've lost it or Todd Helton has done so.
"Read where you don't believe Helton has "lost it". I disagree- he has. Seems like more than a coincidence that ever since the steroid thing happened he lost weight and lost power. I was begging for the Rockies to trade Helton two years ago when he would have brought some great, young players in return. Of course, the Rockies being the Rockies didn't do it. Name the amount and I will bet you Helton does not hit 30 HR's this year."
BGT: Dan, stop! You have me laughing, amigo. O.K., here's the thing. I believe Helton's numbers have slipped because his back has been injured or he's had other health concerns (intestinal), not because he has lost his taste for steroids or other juices.
Coors Field also plays differently these days. I truly think that with the development of Matt Holliday and Garrett Atkins, a steady Brad Hawpe to go with dangerous Jeff Baker, and up-and-comers Troy Tulowitzki and Chris Iannetta that the Colorado lineup is going to be potent again, netting Helton more good pitches to hit. If healthy, I do see 30 home runs and 100 RBI, just not the 40-homers and 130 RBI seasons.
But never shy I will say this, Dan. You asked for the amount of the wager. How's this work for you -- if Helton does fall short of the mark, then I take a picture of myself holding a sign saying "Dan knows best" and post it on this site. If Helton comes through, like I believe him capable, you go to a game and when they announce him coming to bat, you yell "Todd, I was wrong, can we hug and make up?"
Local Side Roads
The Denver Broncos caught a break. When linebacker Al Wilson flunked his physical with the New York Giants, the trade on the table between the two teams that would have netted the Broncos some Eli's cheesecake and little more was off. Wilson is dinged but he is playable and watch for him, for now, to be back in Denver next season. It is unlikely another team is going to pass him now as healthy enough to suit up. The Broncos could flat out release Wilson but that would be as stupid as it would be insulting as losing Wilson for nothing is just not a move of a champion. He may not be Randy Gradishar but he's not Brian Bosworth either. You find a way to get something for him if you've decided you can't or won't pay him.
The Nuggets get blasted at Toronto, 121-94, and looked like CU in doing so, allowing the Raptors to shoot 57 percent from the field while looking clueless on offense. Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony may have played their worst games of the season, hardly contributing anything, combining for 24 points, three rebounds and five assists. That was a pretty expensive night on the court for owner Stan Kroenke as he didn't get much of a return on his game investment. He isn't wealthy by allowing such performance to continue. Keep hearing this team needs more time to learn to play together. Garbage. How long do you and I get to assimilate into a new work environment before we're expected to be good at what we do? A week or two? A month? This group is out of excuses and its' obvious right now that changes have to be made this offseason.
CNNSI.com is bagging on Rockies' second baseman Kaz Matsui and that ain't right. The former Met was sensational after coming to Colorado in a late-season trade. He got on base, he hit and was a definite upgrade at the position. To say that Jamey Carroll, a nice backup, is a better player, is a crime. Carroll is cheaper and good in spots, nothing more.
Troy Tulowitzki is the Rockies' starting shortstop, which was expected, and Clint Barmes and Cory Sullivan get kicked out of the party, getting stationed at Colorado Springs. Tulowitzki is an unknown but provides promise of some offensive punch. Barmes will likely be dealt this season and Sullivan, a fourth outfielder masquerading as a starter will also probably be leaving town in the next few months if no injuries occur.
Could Rockies' prospect Ian Stewart be changing addresses? Maybe. Look here.
Them other guys
With Texas A & M going down only Kansas remains in the NCAA Tournament as a Big 12 representative, which is o.k., because the Jayhawks are a legitimate team to win the whole enchilada.
Brandon Rush must start to exert himself, make KU his team, though and Julian Wright has to become more consistent. All I hear is that Wright is a top-3 or a top-5 pick in the NBA draft. Such a decision would have bust written all over it right now. If he can't dominate from game to game now how's he going to do it at the next level. Those complaints aside, the BGT is taking those Buff Bullies to beat UCLA in a tight one.
Why Bzdelik
If Colorado does go ahead and hire Air Force coach Jeff Bzdelik, here could be the laundry list of reasons why he ended up being the pick.
- He's going to push guys to do the work in the classroom
- He's all about structure, defense and playing hard
- Once voted the NBA's best advance scout so he knows how to break down an opponent
- He has the resume of turning around sorry teams (see Nuggets, Air Force) quickly
- Has learned up close and personal from Pat Riley
- He can block out distractions and just coach
- Might be able to pull off a Texas A & M-like turnaround in Boulder
Interesting to me how much flak Tubby Smith has received in the press lately. No wonder he skipped town to go to -- Minnesota?
Let me get over the shock of Smith's relocation plans for a moment. I will say that from all the attacks against Smith you'd think the man never won a thing at the collegiate level. All those victories at Tulsa, Georgia and Kentucky were just a joke, I guess. A national championship? Yeah, that was all smoke and mirrors, too. Smith couldn't coach himself out of paper bag.
All that criticism must have got to him, too as he went muy loco by going igloo hunting into Canada South to coach some basketball in Minnesota. That's the best he could do? They'll love him there but a very sad ending for all his contributions to UK, even if he never was Adolph Rupp or Rick Pitino.
A lot of names might be mentioned to replace Smith, amongst them Rick Barnes of Texas and Billy Gillispie of Texas A & M. The BGT says Barnes has his own sweet set up at Texas and that school will do all it can to keep him. Gillispie could definitely be a leading candidate, though. Other possible matches include John Calipari of Memphis and Mark Few of Gonzaga. Maybe even Anthony Grant of Virginia Commonwealth.
Ready for a bold nugget?
Forget me mentioning Grant or other quality prospects like Chris Lowery of Southern Illinois or Karl Hobbs of George Washington. UK felt it took a chance on Smith, a black coach, and despite him winning a national championship and an awful lot of games, he didn't live up to the school standard for achievement so the Wildcats won't hire a black coach anytime soon, no matter how successful.
Hey, don't rail against the messenger. It's Kentucky! I've never been a part of all the South's skeletons.
Letters
This one from that big family with the surname "Anonymous," who asks what if Air Force coach Jeff Bzdelik prefers staying put at the academy or ends up somewhere else, what then for CU athletic director Mike Bohn?
"If Bzdelik falls through, will Bohn turn to Mike Dunlap again?"
BGT: I'm afraid Dunlap is yesterday's news. Whatever the reasons for him pulling his name from consideration for the job, both he and CU have moved on, likely to never go out romancing one another again. If, for some reason, Bzdelik does not end up with his name on the position, the Buffs have plenty of other options. The question that would then loom large would be -- would anyone of stature desire the job? Personally, I'd like to think so but that's my opinion. What is the perception of Colorado from outside state lines? We'd quickly find out.
Anyway, in a completely unrelated note, wondering when Bohn and Northern Illinois are going to put together a CU-UNI game.
Why are you laughing?
Next letter comes from Dan, who thinks I've lost it or Todd Helton has done so.
"Read where you don't believe Helton has "lost it". I disagree- he has. Seems like more than a coincidence that ever since the steroid thing happened he lost weight and lost power. I was begging for the Rockies to trade Helton two years ago when he would have brought some great, young players in return. Of course, the Rockies being the Rockies didn't do it. Name the amount and I will bet you Helton does not hit 30 HR's this year."
BGT: Dan, stop! You have me laughing, amigo. O.K., here's the thing. I believe Helton's numbers have slipped because his back has been injured or he's had other health concerns (intestinal), not because he has lost his taste for steroids or other juices.
Coors Field also plays differently these days. I truly think that with the development of Matt Holliday and Garrett Atkins, a steady Brad Hawpe to go with dangerous Jeff Baker, and up-and-comers Troy Tulowitzki and Chris Iannetta that the Colorado lineup is going to be potent again, netting Helton more good pitches to hit. If healthy, I do see 30 home runs and 100 RBI, just not the 40-homers and 130 RBI seasons.
But never shy I will say this, Dan. You asked for the amount of the wager. How's this work for you -- if Helton does fall short of the mark, then I take a picture of myself holding a sign saying "Dan knows best" and post it on this site. If Helton comes through, like I believe him capable, you go to a game and when they announce him coming to bat, you yell "Todd, I was wrong, can we hug and make up?"
Local Side Roads
The Denver Broncos caught a break. When linebacker Al Wilson flunked his physical with the New York Giants, the trade on the table between the two teams that would have netted the Broncos some Eli's cheesecake and little more was off. Wilson is dinged but he is playable and watch for him, for now, to be back in Denver next season. It is unlikely another team is going to pass him now as healthy enough to suit up. The Broncos could flat out release Wilson but that would be as stupid as it would be insulting as losing Wilson for nothing is just not a move of a champion. He may not be Randy Gradishar but he's not Brian Bosworth either. You find a way to get something for him if you've decided you can't or won't pay him.
The Nuggets get blasted at Toronto, 121-94, and looked like CU in doing so, allowing the Raptors to shoot 57 percent from the field while looking clueless on offense. Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony may have played their worst games of the season, hardly contributing anything, combining for 24 points, three rebounds and five assists. That was a pretty expensive night on the court for owner Stan Kroenke as he didn't get much of a return on his game investment. He isn't wealthy by allowing such performance to continue. Keep hearing this team needs more time to learn to play together. Garbage. How long do you and I get to assimilate into a new work environment before we're expected to be good at what we do? A week or two? A month? This group is out of excuses and its' obvious right now that changes have to be made this offseason.
CNNSI.com is bagging on Rockies' second baseman Kaz Matsui and that ain't right. The former Met was sensational after coming to Colorado in a late-season trade. He got on base, he hit and was a definite upgrade at the position. To say that Jamey Carroll, a nice backup, is a better player, is a crime. Carroll is cheaper and good in spots, nothing more.
Troy Tulowitzki is the Rockies' starting shortstop, which was expected, and Clint Barmes and Cory Sullivan get kicked out of the party, getting stationed at Colorado Springs. Tulowitzki is an unknown but provides promise of some offensive punch. Barmes will likely be dealt this season and Sullivan, a fourth outfielder masquerading as a starter will also probably be leaving town in the next few months if no injuries occur.
Could Rockies' prospect Ian Stewart be changing addresses? Maybe. Look here.
Them other guys
With Texas A & M going down only Kansas remains in the NCAA Tournament as a Big 12 representative, which is o.k., because the Jayhawks are a legitimate team to win the whole enchilada.
Brandon Rush must start to exert himself, make KU his team, though and Julian Wright has to become more consistent. All I hear is that Wright is a top-3 or a top-5 pick in the NBA draft. Such a decision would have bust written all over it right now. If he can't dominate from game to game now how's he going to do it at the next level. Those complaints aside, the BGT is taking those Buff Bullies to beat UCLA in a tight one.
Friday, March 23, 2007
The answer; Collins on Bzdelik
Ever been fooled?Like it?
Seems the Colorado coaching staff wants us to think that Nick Nelson still has a shot at starting at quarterback. With each passing week it becomes more clear that only injury is going to stop Cody Hawkins from being the man under center when the season starts.
Nelson was recruited to be the opening act for Hawkins but Hawkins has shown he is the more dynamic player now. He is also having more big moments. Of course, if Hawkins shows he is not durable or becomes mistake prone once the games start, he will get a timeout and watch Nelson "manage" a game.
But that is not the plan CU coaches want. They know to jump-start the offense, to accelerate the growth of this program, Cody Hawkins has to be out with the starters and making plays in 2007.
Coach Dan Hawkins, offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich and receivers coach Eric Kiesau know for them to get the most out of their efforts and their players, they need Cody Hawkins' skills, mind, and makeup on the field. He will make everyone look better -- the backs, receivers and the coaches. And the scoreboard will be prettier.
That said, don't expect many 30-point explosions this season.
But don't expect many 12-14 point games either.
Charles scores
So I hear Hugh Charles ripped off a long scoring run at practice. And had a long kickoff return. The coaches continue to push him to be more physical, run harder, be more well rounded and hopefully that all gets through to him because the fact is CU needed him on the field more last season and will need him between the lines this season because he is a game-breaker, something in short supply on the roster. The Buffs have to get playmakers on the field doin' their thing and Charles, if he's up to it, could have a significant season. He's never lacked talent or explosiveness.
Collins and BGT look at the coaching search
The BGT had to know more about the search for gold for the basketball program so it had a meeting of the minds with Mark Collins of the Buffalo Sports News to break it all down.
BGT: For the longest time, it was speculated that either Mike Dunlap or Jeff Bzdelik would replace Ricardo Patton as coach at Colorado -- that those two seemed like the usual suspects, the logical choices. Then Dunlap pulls out, leaving most to believe that the Bzdelik hiring is now rock solid. How accurate an assumption is that to make?
Collins: I think its' accurate to say that Bzdelik is still their no. 1 target but I don't know that its' accurate that it is rock solid at this point. I think Bzdelik has to finish his season at Air Force and still has to decide if he wants to come to Colorado.
BGT: Is it Bzdelik or bust for CU?
Collins: I think they have some plan B's and plan C's. I would hope they do, assume they do, and think they do.
BGT: Bzdelik can coach, there can't be many doubters on that, Mark, but is he markedly better in other areas where Patton was said to be deficient, like being a player in the community, with boosters, being out there selling the program?
Collins: I don't have a sense on that but I think that's something (CU athletic director) Mike Bohn really wants in the hire.
He does seem like a loyal employee and willing to be a team player.
BGT: If Bzdelik is Bohn's choice to run this program will the fans believe what they've been told, which is the search for Patton's replacement really was a wide sweep through the coaching ranks?
Collins: Down the road, if Bzdelik can bring a winner then no one will even remember. If he struggles, then that will be something that fans and media types could always mention -- how much did (CU) really look, was the focus too narrow?
My own personal bias is I wish they would get somebody who would come in here and employ an up-tempo running style of basketball. That style is entertaining whether you're making the NCAA Tournament every year or not. It's fun to watch and you can draw fans.
If (Bzdelik) comes here he might do more what he's done at Air Force and I don't think you can do that in one year, one offseason and get it up to speed.
BGT: What about hiring assistants? I had a conversation with a media member who told me it was imperative that Bohn ask a prospective hire who he plans to have on his staff. Can Bohn do such a thing with Bzdelik?
Collins: The other question mark on him is recruiting. That's where hiring really good assistants comes into play. Definitely, Bohn needs to bring that up (hiring assistants) and feel that out with him.
But I don't know that Bohn has the bargaining power at this point to say we want you to come here as long as you hire x-y-z as your assistants. I don't know if he quite has that juice at this time.
Quickies
For a 2-10 team, Colorado got some attention from Bruce Feldman of ESPN.com when he did his story on the top 10 quarterback battles for his blog. He believes Bernard Jackson is slated for "Slash" duty, something the BGT thinks is likely overstated since Jackson will not prove capable enough at wide receiver with such a short time to learn routes. Yeah, he might take some snaps in line up in the backfield, like, oh...rarely. Think B-Jack is going to collect a lot of dust this season unless he can catch punts and/or kicks, which, now that I think of it, might be a fantastic fit for him.
Iowa is having nothing to do with firekirkferentz.com so it bought all the rights to the site to avoid chumps from starting a forest fire should the Hawkeyes' football program go in the toilet. Too bad, CU was slow to act as I own firedanhawkinsbecausehewontletmecallplays.com.
Local Side Roads
Trading Al Wilson? For a possible mid-round choice, as reported by Bill Williamson of the Denver Post? Did Dan O'Dowd take over running the Denver Broncos too? Salary cap problems or no, how blatantly obvious of a salary dump is that and how foolish. There is never an excuse to give away talent of Wilson's caliber for money reasons. If you get a proven player in return or the draft pick or picks to compensate for his loss and yes, leadership, fine.
Such a move would be highly offensive to most Denver fans.
Ah, them Nuggets. They really have turned the corner haven't they? Give up 109 points and without Marcus Camby in the lineup, gave up a tip-in at the buzzer. The Denver backcourt played no defense, Luol Deng worked Carmelo Anthony on the boards and in the end, the Nuggets were left exposed for what they truly are -- vanilla. Nothing special despite all their high-priced ingredients.
Colorado State's hiring of Tim Miles to replace Dale Layer really can't be assailed too much as Miles is a winner and Rams' athletic director Paul Kowalcyzk once hired Southern Illinois' Chris Lowery but it is also fair to ask if this is best CSU could do? Miles will not sell tickets and I'd have to believe there were other hungry coaches who could have generated more enthusiasm and maybe have been better choices. But, then again, maybe this says more about CSU's relative unattractiveness than it does Kowalcyzk's decision.
By the way, Miles will have no say or sway on whether star forward Jason Smith returns to the team next season. If Smith projects to go in the first round, he's gone, especially if he's top-15, top-20. If he's seen as a second-rounder, he'll likely be back. Miles just has to wait for Smith's call.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
The beat goes on; Air Force angry
Air Force, the little engine that could, keeps moving forward in the NIT, edging DePaul, 52-51 to advance to the semifinals in New York where it will meet ACC afterthought but South Region top seed Clemson.Falcons' coach Jeff Bzdelik is now an outrageous 50-15 at the academy.
It would be difficult to imagine many coaches being able to accomplish what he has at a military school. That record would be astonishing at almost any place in the country but Air Force?
Almost unbelievable.
No matter what happens against Clemson.
Oh, please
Seems Air Force athletic director Dr. Hans Mueh is furious at CU athletic director Mike Bohn for contacting Bzdelik before the season is over.
Yes, maybe that is official protocol to wait but come on now -- you, reading this, might have a contract with your company but if another organization hears of your stellar work (it is stellar, right?), then they are going to inquire if you might be interested in working for them. Even a stiff like me has had that happen on a couple of occasions. I didn't seek alternative employment -- they came to me. And like Mueh at Air Force, one of my employers hit the roof.
He got over himself.
After I left.
Point being this -- it is up to Bzdelik, not Bohn, to say something akin to "hey, I'm interested, but can we not talk until after my season is over. I don't want distractions or to disrespect my boss or the Air Force Academy."
Bohn is doing, it says here, what he should be doing, which is being aggressive, serving CU and trying to find the right coach, the right fit, in a highly-competitive environment. Many think Bohn has lusted for Bzdelik for some time, put all his eggs in one basket, so to speak, so if he lets the Falcons' leader get off the hook then Bohn's got nothin' and looks the part of the fool.
He realizes what's at stake and he's doing what he thinks is best for the Buffs without being immoral or even, it says here, unethical.
Mueh is like a jealous girlfriend -- insecure. He fears he just isn't good enough to keep his man.
On the field
Patrick Ridgell's report on CU football in the Daily Times-Call had some interesting nuggets. Here's what the BGT extracted from Ridgell's work.
- Dusty Sprague -- is poised for a rebound season. The guy has size, works hard, wants to be good and if he can stay healthy, a better marriage with the quarterback is sure to equal 40-50 catches this season. Watch him.
- Bernard Jackson -- CU coaches love his athleticism but have no clue where to put him now. B-Jack could see his career end being that appliance that no longer excites and ends up jammed in the back of a cupboard or out in the garage. Dan Hawkins, Mark Helfrich and Eric Kiesau might bluster differently but is Jackson all of a sudden going to learn how to run pass routes effectively as a senior? Is he going to spell Hugh Charles, Demetrius Sumler and possibly Thomas Perez and P.T. Gates? Riiiiiiiiiiiight. Jackson will be the trick-play specialist, not Slash, for the Buffs in 2007. Not saying he won't have an impact but am sharing he won't be a heavy-use guy.
- Anyone noticing from reports just how often former CU quarterback Bobby Pesavento is hanging out at practice? I'd watch him. He might be asking for a jersey soon. He has told me one of his desires is coaching so getting a look at how things are going down at Camp Hawkins is likely educational and he doesn't have to pay for the credits.
Bill Williamson of the Denver Post reports that CU's Jashon Sykes is going pro, as in internship with the Denver Broncos. Just rounding out his impressive resume.
Local Side Roads
O.K., now Tom Davis retires! If he would have done this after last season, CU athletic director Mike Bohn would have had an interim coach to consider to step in for one season, on the cheap likely, after the Ricardo Patton fast-one resignation.
At one time, former Metro State College coach and current Denver Nuggets' assistant Mike Dunlap was said to be a strong candidate for openings at Colorado and possibly, New Mexico. Now, it appears Bzdelik is the only candidate in Boulder and Indiana legend and current Iowa top dog, Steve Alford, is in as the Lobo's man. Dunlap might truly be staying in the NBA, as Nuggets coach George Karl speculated.
Was reading Peter King of CNNSI.com and there was a mention of former CU All-American Daniel Graham. Seems Mr. King believes what he saw in New England and that Graham is a one-trick pony. The BGT believes the ex-Buffs' tight end has more skills than he was allowed to show as a Patriot. Maybe not All-Pro but definitely more than an afterthought in the passing game. While he's not going to bench second-year pro Tony Scheffler, he is going to be a factor in the running game while also making plays down the field.
Colorado State gets points for being bold and hiring some cat named Tim Miles from North Dakota State. Who? He does have some achievements but seems like a reach to me. Not saying he won't be successful but makes you wonder if anyone replied to the Rams' help-wanted ad.
Todd Helton gets interviewed by Bernie Lincicome of the Rocky Mountain News and gotta say that Mr. Rocky sounds aggravated and ready to prove people wrong -- he's not done. I don't believe for a moment that Helton has "lost it" and can't hit for power. If he's truly healthy, he'll hit 30 homers and drive in 100 + runs. Especially with Matt Holliday, Garrett Atkins and Brad Hawpe/Jeff Baker in the lineup. If he falls short of those numbers, it's because his body, like most of us, ain't what it used to be and if so, then I'd part Helton out to some other team for peanuts, a Dan O'Dowd specialty.
Side Roads
According to a story written by Gary Parrish of CBSSportsline.com, Virginia Commonwealth coach Anthony Grant, a hot young property, is not going to take just another job -- he wants the Miami Hurricanes' post, which might be available in a year.
It says here that the talk of Michigan landing UNLV's Lon Kruger or Oregon's Ernie Kent is drunken lunacy. Kruger can get a better job than Ann Arbor and Kent, while under pressure in Eugene until this season, would be in even hotter water at Michigan at the first sign of trouble.
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