Honorable Mention: FallBall College Lacrosse: Maryland @ Loyola (Friday 7pm Ridley Athletic Complex); “Paranormal Activity 2″ opens in theaters (Friday)

10. Darius Rucker (Friday 7pm Pier Six Pavilion), 311 (Saturday 7pm Pier Six Pavilion); Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Martin Sexton (Friday 8pm Rams Head Live), Matt And Kim (Saturday 8pm Rams Head Live), Bad Religion (Sunday 7pm Rams Head Live); Jenny & Johnny (Monday 8pm Rams Head Live); All Time Low (Saturday 8pm Recher Theatre); Helmet (Friday 8pm Sonar); Yonder Mountain String Band (Saturday 10pm 9:30 Club); Buddy Guy (Tuesday & Wednesday 7:30pm Birchmere); Louis CK (Friday 7:30pm & 10pm Warner Theatre); Guster (Saturday 7pm D.A.R. Constitution Hall), Lifehouse (Sunday 7:30pm D.A.R. Constitution Hall); Kelly Bell Band (Saturday 8pm Field House); Tom Papa (Saturday 8pm Stevenson University); B.o.B. and Wale (Sunday 7pm Towson Center); Kings of Leon “Come Around Sundown” available in stores/on iTunes (Tuesday)

I don’t care how you feel about country music. I’m going to see Darius Rucker Friday night. And as I told Boomer Sooner already, I will NOT be held responsible for my actions if he channels Prince…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX3-S649cvo[/youtube]

If anyone has some extra 311 tickets Saturday night, I know a certain doughy sports DJ that would be willing to take them off your hands…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWo-02Hsab4[/youtube]

Since I’m going to be at Darius Rucker Friday night I’m going to miss Robert Randolph. (It’s okay, I’m going to see him a week later in DC. I know you were worried.) For those of you who WILL be at Rams Head Friday night, you’ll be in for a treat…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBMh6RmR8Ko[/youtube]

So…I have some friends who go to Towson. Can they please explain to me why none of them have invited me to the B.O.B. show Sunday night?!?!?

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGRtstkjdrQ[/youtube]

And finally, my copy of “Come Around Sundown” better be ready on iTunes before sun UP on Tuesday. That is all…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPBbMbKSZrQ[/youtube]

9. Cirque Du Soleil “OVO” final week (Tuesday-Sunday National Harbor DC)

If I’m going, Paul Rudd better be bringing me some shrooms for the event. (You REALLY don’t get the reference? REALLY? Please check here…)

Seriously though, the whole thing just looks like an acid trip to me…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4DfSBnBR08[/youtube]

8. Soccer: MLS-Toronto FC @ DC United (Saturday 7:30pm from RFK Stadium live on MLS Direct Kick); College Soccer: Colgate @ Maryland (Tuesday 7:30pm Ludwig Field), Wake Forest @ Maryland (Saturday 7pm Ludwig Field); Hartford @ UMBC (Saturday 1pm UMBC Soccer Stadium)

Apparently this is Jaime Moreno’s final match with DC United-which is apparently meaningful somehow. I’d tell you how if I knew, trust me. I’m not just being a jerk and withholding information from you. I genuinely don’t know.

Now…if it was Jamie BRADFORD’s final match with DC United, I’m pretty sure I would understand the significance…

7. NHL: Boston Bruins @ Washington Capitals (Tuesday 7:30pm from Verizon Center live on VERSUS), Washington Capitals @ Boston Bruins (Thursday 7pm from Boston live on Comcast SportsNet & NHL Network), Atlanta Thrashers @ Washington Capitals (Saturday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet)

As you know, I’m not a Caps fan. They play in Washington-which I’m sure you’re aware is the same place where the Redskins play. I dislike both of them.

That being said…I probably hate Boston just as much if not more. Especially considering the fact that the Ravens just lost to the New England Patriots. Eff Boston. Eff New England. Eff Papa Gino’s. Eff Bill Simmons. Eff Fenway Park. Eff Sweet Caroline.

Unless it’s Dave Matthews playing Sweet Caroline. At Fenway Park. Then we’ll momentarily enjoy it and then pretend to be mad about it later.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B6OVkLlyuA[/youtube]

6. High School Football: Perry Hall @ Dulaney (Saturday 1pm), Severna Park @ Glen Burnie (Friday 6:30pm)

You know…I was feeling a bit dejected about the fact that my Gators couldn’t hang on Friday night and beat Franklin. I really was. It was Homecoming, and a loss to the Indians really kinda hurt.

But…at least I don’t root for the Gophers like a certain other personality on “The Morning Reaction” that I know.

That’s right, ol’ Drew Forrester’s alma mater had a hell of a night Friday night. Final score? Old Mill 83, Glen Burnie….zero.

83-0?!?!?

I think Old Mill would have gotten better competition from THIS team…

5. Auto Racing: NASCAR Tums Fast Relief 500 (Sunday 1pm from Martinsville, VA live on ESPN)

NASCAR races really aren’t my thing-even when they reach their “playoffs.”

But while I’ve never actually been to Martinsville, I get the feeling that this is probably more exciting than what folks USUALLY do in town…

4. Pro Wrestling: WWE Bragging Rights (Sunday 8pm from Minneapolis live on Pay-Per-View)

I usually offer you one good reason to watch WWE’s monthly PPV event. This time, I have two. Those reasons are named Brie Bella and Nikki Bella…

Ahh yes, the Bella Twins. They’re wrestlers. Or something. Apparently. Lord, I don’t know. They’re hot. Isn’t that enough for you people?

3. Mixed Martial Arts: UFC 121-Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez (Saturday 10pm from Anaheim live on Pay-Per-View), Strikeforce Challengers-Roger Bowling vs. Bobby Voelker (Friday 11pm from Fresno, CA live on Showtime); Bellator Fighting Championships 33: Roger Huerta vs. Eddie Alvarez (Thursday 8pm from Philadelphia live on Fox Sports Net)

The entire sport of MMA is much better for having Brock Lesnar part of it. Why’s that? Well…remember when he and Big Show did THIS???

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2POmlpVREWI[/youtube]

2. College Football: Maryland @ Boston College (Saturday 1pm from Chestnut Hill, Mass. live on ESPN3.com), Navy vs. Notre Dame (Saturday 12pm from East Rutherford, NJ live on CBS), Delaware State @ Morgan State (Saturday 1pm Hughes Stadium)

This is great. I like the Midshipmen and I don’t like the Fighting Irish. In fact, I REALLY don’t like the Irish. GO MIDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0Y7yjxJVlc[/youtube]

1. NFL: Buffalo Bills @ Baltimore Ravens (Sunday 1pm from M&T Bank Stadium live on CBS)

You almost feel bad making fun of the Buffalo Bills. I mean, hasn’t that group of fans suffered enough? They might lose their team to Canada! CANADA! I sorta just feel bad for them.

Oh well.

I present to you the Top 3 most significant moments in Buffalo Bills history…

#3 was actually a decent play…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VE1G-Dn7nUs[/youtube]

#2 was a minor miracle…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2I4_UP8_2M[/youtube]

#1 was…I’m just sorry Bills fans….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCHZFwDCNyA[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Coming off a season in which they won a share of the ACC regular season crown and made a 2nd consecutive NCAA Tournament, the Maryland Terrapins kick off their 2010-2011 campaign less than two months from Thursday, playing an exhibition contest Monday, November 1 against Florida Southern in College Park.

Maryland’s schedule is highlighted by an appearance in the 2K Sports Classic benefitting Coaches vs. Cancer, where they will face Pitt at Madison Square Garden in New York. They will also face either Illinois or Texas at MSG in the event. Maryland will also visit State College to face the Penn State Nittany Lions in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge, take on Temple at Verizon Center in  DC as part of the BB&T Classic, and visit Villanova at Wachovia Center in Philadelphia.

As part of their conference schedule, Maryland will play an annual home and home series with Duke, as well as home and homes with  Boston College, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest.

Maryland is scheduled for Raycom regional broadcast seven times (WNUV54 in Baltimore), six games scheduled for broadcast on Fox Sports Net (most will air on Comcast SportsNet locally, one will air on MASN), CSN only for five games, ESPN or ESPN2 for five games, ESPNU twice and CBS once. There are five games scheduled for no TV-they will air online via “TerpsTV.”

Here is the entire Maryland schedule, courtesy of a press release from the Terps…

Day     Date                Opponent                                                                                  Time                   Television

Mon.   Nov. 1             FLORIDA SOUTHERN (Exhibition)                                         8:00                     –

Mon.   Nov. 8             SEATTLE UNIV. (2K Sports Classic)                                      TBA                    TerpsTV

Wed.   Nov. 10           CHARLESTON (2K Sports Classic)                                        7:00                     ESPNU

Sun.    Nov. 14           MAINE                                                                                        2:00                     CSN

Thu.     Nov. 18            vs. Pittsburgh (2K Sports Classic at New York)                           7:00                     ESPN2

Fri.       Nov. 19            vs. Illinois or Texas (2K Sports Classic at New York)                  5:00/7:00             ESPN2

Tue.    Nov. 23           DELAWARE STATE                                                                  8:00                     TerpsTV

Fri.      Nov. 26           ELON                                                                                          8:00                     CSN

Wed.    Dec. 1              at Penn State (ACC/Big Ten Challenge)                                     9:15                     ESPN2

Sun.     Dec. 5              vs. Temple (BB&T Classic, Verizon Center)                                8:00                     MASN / FSN

Wed.   Dec. 8             UNC GREENSBORO                                                                 7:30                     CSN

Sun.    Dec. 12           BOSTON COLLEGE*                                                                 4:00                     FSN

Wed.   Dec. 22           NJIT                                                                                            8:00                     TerpsTV

Wed.   Dec. 29           NORTH FLORIDA                                                                      8:00                     TerpsTV

Tue.    Jan. 4              COLGATE                                                                                  8:00                     CSN / NESN

Sun.     Jan. 9              at Duke*                                                                                      8:00                     FSN

Wed.    Jan. 12            at Wake Forest*                                                                          8:00                     Raycom

Sat.      Jan. 15            at Villanova                                                                                  1:00                     CBS

Thu.    Jan. 20            VIRGINIA TECH*                                                                        9:00                     ESPN or ESPN2

Sat.     Jan. 22            CLEMSON*                                                                                 2:30                     Raycom

Thu.     Jan. 27            at Virginia*                                                                                   7:00                     CSN

Sun.     Jan. 30            at Georgia Tech*                                                                         7:45                     FSN

Wed.   Feb. 2             DUKE*                                                                                        9:00                     ESPN

Sat.     Feb. 5             WAKE FOREST*                                                                        1:00                     Raycom

Wed.   Feb. 9             LONGWOOD                                                                              8:00                     TerpsTV

Sat.      Feb. 12            at Boston College*                                                                       1:00                     Raycom

Tue.     Feb. 15            at Virginia Tech*                                                                          8:00                     Raycom

Sun.    Feb. 20           NC STATE*                                                                                5:30                     FSN

Wed.   Feb. 23           FLORIDA STATE*                                                                     9:00                     Raycom

Sun.     Feb. 27            at North Carolina*                                                                       7:45                     FSN

Wed.    Mar. 2              at Miami*                                                                                     7:00                     ESPNU

Sat.     Mar. 5              VIRGINIA*                                                                                   2:00                     Raycom

March 10-13                at ACC Tournament (Greensboro, N.C.)

March 15 & 16             at NCAA First Round (Dayton)

March 17 & 19             at NCAA Second & Third Rounds (Denver, Tampa, Tucson, Washington, D.C.)

March 18 & 20             at NCAA Second & Third Rounds (Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Tulsa)

March 24 & 26             at NCAA Regionals (Anaheim, New Orleans)

March 25 & 27             at NCAA Regionals (Newark, San Antonio)

April 2 & 4                    at NCAA Final Four (Houston)

* – Atlantic Coast Conference game

All times and dates subject to change; All times Eastern; Home games played at Comcast Center (17,950) listed in BOLD CAPS

-G

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me, because after discovering Christina Hendricks yesterday, some of you did the right thing and directed me to some of the other hottest chicks on TV, including Kaley Cuoco from “The Big Bang Theory”….

Please…..PLEASE…..to be directing me to others that I might not know of yet.

Let’s see what everyone has to say…..

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens taking chance on ‘troubled’ WR Donte’ Stallworth

Which has obviously lead to a day’s worth of discussion regarding whether or not A-Stallworth deserves a 2nd chance after pleading guilty to DUI manslaughter last year, and B-Stallworth is good enough for the Ravens to consider him an “upgrade” over their current receivers.

Let me address the 2nd part of that first (naturally). While Stallworth has never had 1,000 yards in any of his 7 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns; he DOES have 32 career TD grabs. In their careers; Mark Clayton, Kelley Washington and Demetrius Williams have combined for 27.

This move works football-wise if it is paired with the return of Derrick Mason and the acquisition of a taller wide receiver.

As far as whether or not he deserves the second chance, I’m in general the type of person who believes in second chances. For example, when I heard Tara Reid was going to pose in Playboy, I was willing to give her a second chance despite how brutal she had looked in recent years….and that move paid off….

(Edit from GMC: Someone is currently thinking “Are you making a joke about a situation that involved a man dying? The answer is no. I’m making a joke about Tara Reid. Don’t sweat the details.)

2. WNST.net’s Drew Forrester says Ravens taking ‘gamble’, but not ‘major gamble’ on Stallworth

In my story yesterday, I wrote about some conversations I had with former Stallworth teammates (including current Ravens TE LJ Smith-who was teammates with Stallworth in Philly, and Saints TE Darnell Dinkins, who was teammates with Stallworth in Cleveland). I also had conversations with other former teammates that I can’t make public, and I heard the conversation Ray Bachman and Rex Snider had with Stallworth’s former Saints teammate Spencer Folau yesterday.

Every single conversation has netted the following reaction:

“Great guy, made a bad decision. He deserves the second chance.”

The best news for the Ravens is that Stallworth cost them only $900,000; and if he can’t play, they’ll let him go after Training Camp. He’s a low risk guy, as the only risk (which Drew points out) is a level of fan backlash. The good news for the Ravens is that they’re in a place right now where Ozzie Newsome and company will PROBABLY be given the benefit of the doubt from the fanbase if the signing doesn’t work out.

3. The Sun’s Mike Preston says Stallworth ‘not the answer’ for Ravens

There’s just no doubt about this. Stallworth has been a good player, but he’s 6’0″. The Ravens didn’t lack for undersized receivers whether they brought back Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton or not. What they lack is a size guy. They need someone who can just go up and be counted on grabbing the football, and they just don’t have that yet.

Brandon Marshall (6’4″) is out there-but unlikely. Malcolm Floyd (6’5″) is out there-and the chances of him ending up in Baltimore have everything to do with what the cost will be. Dez Bryant (6’2″) could end up slipping a bit in the NFL Draft. Danario Alexander (6’5″) from Missouri and Demaryius Thomas (6’4″) from Georgia Tech will likely both slide into later rounds of the Draft, especially after Thomas broke his foot yesterday.

The point is, without grabbing a receiver with size, the Ravens will leave themselves in a very bad place even with a guy like Donte’ Stallworth.

4. Ravens Official Site’s Ryan Mink says team released TE Sypniewski after he failed physical

I think a lot of people who enjoy hard-nosed football were really disappointed to hear this, as Sypniewski was certainly a hard-nosed player. He was a tough, physical guy who the Ravens liked enough to hold on to him despite the fact that he missed the last two seasons. Unfortunately, the knee injury ultimately did him in even after another recent cleanup procedure.

With Sypniewski gone, I guess the “best hair” award now defaults to Adam Terry???

5. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Ravens discussing new deal with Derrick Mason

I’m not COMPLETELY certain that Derrick Mason will return to Baltimore, but I would lean that way, that’s for sure. I get less of a feeling every day that he’s coming back and going to Tennessee to re-join the Titans, I know that much. I still think there’s a real chance he retires, but I’m more than 50% on him coming back to Baltimore.

Addressing the other big discussion point from yesterday regarding the Ravens (and I already addressed this on Twitter, so make sure you follow us @WNST); the Ravens will NOT be dealing Willis McGahee for Antonio Cromartie. I get that the Chargers have dangled Cromartie and they’re looking for a Running Back; but NO ONE is interested in trading anything legitimate for McGahee.

Could McGahee be a throwaway to make the money work in a deal for Cromartie? Maybe. But the deal would have to be a Draft pick for Cromartie, and I don’t see the Ravens being interested in dealing a Thursday or Friday night pick (Rounds 1-3) for a Corner right now. Even beyond that, Cromartie was a first round pick, so I think the Chargers will be looking for 1st round equivalency. Tashard Choice and a draft pick seems like a much more likely combo to possibly head to San Diego.

6. WNST.net’s Luke Jones says Maryland overcame ‘tired’ first half performance to rally past NC State in Raleigh

Clearly the sting of playing 3 games in 5 days was showing for this Maryland team for the first 25-30 minutes of their trip to the RBC Center. After a strong start from the field, they really struggled late in the first half; and once again failed to score 70 points on the road en route to a 67-58 victory.

Once again, Jordan Williams was a HUGE difference maker last night. When the Terps couldn’t get their feet under them and were struggling from the field, he didn’t let Tracy Smith establish himself inside, pulled down some boards and got some easy hoops. Once Greivis Vasquez (and Adrian Bowie) got something going offensively, Williams had kept things close enough that the Terps could pull away.

Sometimes conference road games are tougher than they should be. It was fitting that on the same night, Duke had to rally from down 12 in the second half to beat Miami. These types of things happen.

They get some rest now-but not much. 61 hours exactly before Saturday’s tilt with Georgia Tech.

7. The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Gary Williams thought Vasquez wasn’t “going to let (Terps) lose”

Obviously this was a showing of will from the Venezuelan senior in the 2nd half, as he was totally determined to make sure his team didn’t fall to the worst team in the ACC. He isn’t the first Maryland guard during the Gary Williams era to do those types of things, as John Gilchrist and Juan Dixon helped carry their teams to Championships doing almost the exact same thing.

Of course, there were also a couple times last night when Vasquez chucked up a wild 3 in transition or in a totally unnecessary situation. That’s the Vasquez lore. The one he hit at the shot clock buzzer was pretty impressive.

Now at 8-3 in ACC play, the Terps are in great shape. I know that a certain host of the “Comcast Morning Show” speculated this morning that the Terps needed to win 11 or 12 ACC games to clinch a trip to the NCAA Tournament; but there appears to be no chance of that being true. Given the lack of teams with Tournament resumes in the power conferences, there is just no chance an ACC team that wins 10 conference games will be left out of March Madness. However, I will say there is a chance that if the Terps were to lose 4 of their last 5 and finish 9-7 (unless the win is over Duke); they’ll get left out.

There’s just not enough teams elsewhere in the country to leave a 10 win ACC team out of the picture, even if the ACC is going through a down year. The Tournament committee won’t just take another CAA or Horizon League team just for the sake of taking someone else. A CAA team with one win over an ACC team earlier in the season does not have the resume of an ACC team with 10 wins over other ACC teams.

8. Raleigh News & Observer’s J.P. Giglio says Wolfpack blew double digit 2nd half lead in loss to Terrapins

There was ALMOST a moment last night where you felt bad for Sidney Lowe.

Look, he’s clearly not cut out for a big time job in the ACC, or what you imagine the ‘Pack want from a head coach. When a couple of things went Maryland’s way in the 2nd half, he just didn’t have an answer. He had no switches, he had no ideas, he really had nothing. His players acted accordingly.

I have to imagine that despite the fact that he’s an alum, they’re going to give him the Sendek treatment down there, right? If so, does he get to keep his jacket???

9. Morgan State Official Site says 17 from Reggie Holmes, double double from Kevin Thompson lead Bears to win at Delaware State

I got a text from Todd Bozeman after the game last night, he described it simply as “hard fought.” Which is exactly what he had to expect from a Hornets team that had MEAC Championship dreams of their own.

With just one more conference win, the Bears will clinch at least a tie for the MEAC regular season championship. Not to play spoiler, but they’re going to get it.

They’re back in action Saturday with a BRUTAL trip to Kentucky to face Murray State in an ESPN BracketBuster matchup. The game tips at noon and can be seen on ESPNU.

10. The AP says J’Hared Hall lead Loyola with 12, but Hounds fell to St. Peter’s at Reitz Arena

That’s another really tough loss for Jimmy Patsos’ crew. I’m not going to try to paint a picture that I’m a Greyhounds expert, but it looks like there’s an issue when the guys coming off your bench tend to be your leading scorers, and the most points you’re getting from a starter are Shane Walker’s 10.

They now fall to 5-11 in MAAC play after their loss to the Peacocks. They step out of conference play for an ESPN BracketBuster matchup against New Hampshire at home Saturday.

11. The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says former Boston College fundraiser Jim Paquette to replace Joe Boylan as Loyola Athletic Director

His experience in the catholic environment at BC will certainly help him make this transition; but raising money might be a bit more difficult here due to the fact that he won’t have football to fall back on.

I don’t know too much about Paquette, but we’ll be getting him on the air shortly here at WNST to make sure we introduce him to Baltimore.

12. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Bergesen to return to mound for Orioles within 2 weeks

There is no doubt that Andy MacPhail and every human being in the entire O’s organization is hoping for the exact same thing. The quicker he returns to the mound in Spring Training, the less “MASN commercial” jokes we can make.

For the record, pitchers and catchers reported yesterday. I really do wish I was in Sarasota.

And finally, I leave you with this.

The lineup for Bonnaroo 2010 was announced yesterday, and umm….it’s not too bad.

Dave Matthews Band, Jay-Z, Stevie Wonder, Weezer, Tenacious D, Nas, Damian Marley, Michael Franti & Spearhead, The Flaming Lips, Norah Jones, John Fogerty, Jeff Beck, Dropkick Murphys, Wale, Zac Brown Band, The Dead Weather, Tori Amos, Rise Against, and so many more. One of those more is Kings of Leon, who is…not even a little bit bad….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WuQiBrBD2JE[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983….

-G

Happy Wednesday!

It’s a Happy Wednesday for me because I recently discovered who Christina Hendricks was…

I still don’t know what she does for a living, but I bet she’s nice.

Let’s see what everyone has to say….

1. NC State Official Site previews Maryland’s trip to Raleigh tonight

The 88-64 beatdown the Terps handed the Wolfpack about a month ago makes it hard to imagine much of anything else is coming tonight, but the ‘Pack will obviously be a much more rested team than the Terrapins, and will benefit from playing in front of the crowd at the RBC Center.

That being said, for NCSU to have a shot tonight Tracy Smith will have to be a force inside. This puts responsibility on Jordan Williams to control the paint. As long as that happens, the Wolfpack shooters (like Javier Gonzalez) won’t have the room they need to put together multi-shot runs.

I’ll say 71-61 Maryland. (A reminder that the game is being televised regionally by Fox Sports, locally by Comcast SportsNet.)

2. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Terps statistically much better at Comcast Center than away during ACC season

You might be thinking “71 points, Glenn?” Well, here’s an explanation. As I’ve said to anyone who would listen (thanks Patrick for pointing that out by the way), this team ISN’T a great shooting or great offensive team. They’re just a team that has gotten really comfortable playing in College Park, which has improved their overall offensive ability (thankfully).

A reminder that you can follow Patrick Stevens on Twitter (@D1scourse). You can follow us on Twitter as well (@WNST). You can follow pro wrestler Mick Foley on Twitter (@_MickFoley). I’d recommend all three.

3. Washington Post’s Mike Wise says Terps have found ‘stability’ with Gary Williams, Greivis Vasquez this season

This is absolutely one of the more underrated storylines of the ’09-’10 season. For all of the insanity that surrounded Maryland basketball during the ’08-’09 campaign; this year’s team has almost been the exact opposite. At no point has there been some sort of power struggle with Debbie Yow, at no point has there been a groundswell of “Fire Gary Williams” thoughts, and at no point has Greivis Vasquez had any sort of stand-off with Maryland fans that has lead to some sort of awkward situation. Hell, the Washington Post hasn’t even done a 3 part series about the state of the program, and the head coach hasn’t lost it on a reporter from Baltimore who couldn’t possibly have been more defensive of him.

Maybe it’s time to shake things up a bit?

4. Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Terps want to play Wolfpack same way tonight they played Virginia Monday night

So do the rest of us.

Of course, I also want Journey to play as well as they did with Steve Perry, but they’ve managed to play alright with Arnel Pineda too…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWC9MHgpL8U[/youtube]

5. The AP says Chris De La Rosa’s 20 points not enough as UMBC finished winless season at RAC Arena with loss to Stony Brook

Tough to go winless for an entire season at home. Just tough. Not really sure what else to say here.

Randy Monroe’s club will take their ball and try to pick up as many pieces as they can the rest of the way in America East play, starting Sunday afternoon at Binghamton.

6. The AP says RaShawn Polk scored 16, but Towson fell to Old Dominion in Norfolk

Speaking of moving on…

Look, Towson could have been beaten much worse by ODU, so I guess that’s something for Pat Kennedy to hang his hat on.

The Tigers step out of CAA play next, traveling to Manhattan Saturday afternoon as part of the ESPN BracketBusters series.

7. Loyola Official Site previews tonight’s rescheduled MAAC tilt with St. Peter’s

While the Peacocks ARE 9-5 in conference play, this really SHOULD be a winnable game for Jimmy Patsos’ Greyhounds at Reitz Arena. And they can use as many wins as they can get moving towards the MAAC Tournament.

8. Morgan State Official Site previews tonight’s MEAC showdown at Delaware State

This is really a big game for the Bears, as they have to prove that their loss to South Carolina State Monday night wasn’t a sign of a team that was cracking late in the season. Playing the Hornets in Dover is NOT an easy task, especially considering that with a win-DSU would be right back in the MEAC regular season title picture. On top of that, Todd Bozeman’s team has a really tough test coming Saturday at Murray State-and a 3 game losing streak might be tough to snap.

9. WNST.net’s Drew Forrester says MASN making ‘error’ by only airing 4 Orioles Spring Training games

But, how can they have room for O’s games when they have such quality programming as…

Seriously, why air the games when you can air a radio show with guys TALKING about the games?!?!

In all seriousness, there’s no excuse for a regional network OWNED by the team to only air 4 games. MASN should be airing 10 games, similar to what SNY is doing with the Mets, YES is doing with the Yankees, and NESN is doing with the Red Sox.

It’s not a low blow. It’s JUST a fact.

10. The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Andy MacPhail may try to get Birds another pitcher

Peter suggests Jarrod Washburn. And even though he went 9-9 last season, he did have a 3.78 ERA and a 1.188 WHIP. I don’t know what it would take for Washburn to come to Baltimore, but I’m not opposed to the move. It would give the Orioles 6 starting pitchers (with Kevin Millwood, Jeremy Guthrie, Brad Bergesen, Chris Tillman and Brian Matusz); but with Bergesen hurt and some questioning whether or not Tillman or Matusz might need a bit more time in Norfolk once he leaves Sarasota; it would probably be a good problem to have.

That being said, there’s a guy in White Sox camp that probably won’t make the roster I’m keeping my eye on….

11. City Paper’s Andrea Appleton says Kevin Grace (The Wire) working to honor former boxing champ, Baltimore native Joe Gans

As a Baltimore native, I am embarrassed to say that I don’t know much about Gans. I am thankful for the work Kevin Grace is doing, as this will give me an opportunity to learn more about a great athlete. I would suggest reading this story, and hearing about the event Grace (and former Colts RB Lydell Mitchell) are currently working on.

12. Thoroughbred Times’ Ron Parker says Lookin At Lucky at top of first Triple Crown poll of 2010

And so begins the list of horse names you’ll need to learn before the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. Rumor has it Rick from Reisterstown already ran to Pimlico and bet a week’s worth of delivery tips.

And finally, I leave you with this.

Thanks to our buddy Chad Lamasa, who let me know this morning that Wale would be coming to Rams Head Live on April 3rd. You should like Wale…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6hI3SPyecU[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983….

-G

Happy Tuesday!

It’s a Happy Tuesday for me because Tracy Morgan was on “The Late Show with David Letterman” last night. There should be a law forcing these two to work together more often…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4_zEYoonWQ[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

1. WNST.net’s Luke Jones says Greivis Vasquez scored 30 points as Terps trounced Virginia

It doesn’t make the Duke loss irrelevant, but it confirms exactly what I wrote about Maryland following the loss in Durham. They’re just a MUCH better shooting team in College Park than they are away. They play with a MUCH higher level of confidence in College Park than they do away. Playing better at home is a normal thing for college basketball teams, but the difference for Maryland this season is much greater than it is for most teams in many years.

2. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Vasquez certainly greatest player in Comcast Center history

It was a hotly contested battle between Vasquez and this guy…

I’m well aware that Mike Grinnon jokes are probably only funny to me. But since when was I supposed to care about anyone else?

Anyway, it really was just one more unbelievable performance from Greivis Vasquez, whose legacy will always include a “but”, “BUT” he’s been pretty damn good.

3. The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Terps overcame short rest to pick up win over Cavaliers

No rest for the weary (or for the wicked if you ask Cage the Elephant), as the Terps get right back at it tomorrow night in Raleigh against NC State. The game has a Fox Sports regional broadcast, and will be seen locally on Comcast SportsNet. Going back on the road with a short turnaround like this will be tough for the Terps, but clearly a team like the Wolfpack are a team that Gary Williams’ bunch SHOULD be able to beat.

4. Richmond Times-Dispatch’s Michael Phillips says slowing down Cavs offensively not impressive for Terrapins, but breaking down UVa defense is

As my friend Patrick Stevens (@D1scourse on Twitter) and I discussed last night, it wouldn’t have been surprising for the Terps to beat a Tony Bennett-coached Hoos team by a score of 64-50. But it WAS surprising for them to score 52 points in the first half en route to an 85-66 victory; as Virginia has been a strong defensive team this season-which is the staple of a Tony Bennett or Dick Bennett-coached team.

Look, it wasn’t a “great” victory for the Terps, as I don’t think Virginia will ultimately end up being an NCAA Tournament team (or even a “bubble” team frankly). But it was exactly the type of performance you’d want from a team like Maryland in that situation.

5. The AP says long win streaks in MEAC play and at Hill Field House for Morgan State snapped by loss to South Carolina State

Boy, I REALLY thought that after getting past the Bethune-Cookman battle last Monday the Bears were on their way to an undefeated conference season. I will admit that I was surprised to see them lose, even to a pretty good SC State team.

That being said, the loss will be completely meaningless if Todd Bozeman’s team gets right back on the horse and marches to the MEAC regular season and MEAC Tournament titles. If the loss (and some close games recently) are an indication of a team that is cracking a bit, this could be a VERY bad sign.

The Bears return to action Wednesday night at Delaware State-another tough conference foe.

6. Coppin State Official Site says Quinston Reggins’ 15 points not enough as Eagles fell to Winston-Salem State

There’s really no excusing this type of loss. The Rams are not NEARLY good enough that they should be able to come to Baltimore and beat a Fang Mitchell-coached team, especially a team that appeared to be playing better basketball as of late.

The biggest issue for the Eagles continues to be the fact that no single player has stepped up to be a guy who can be counted on the 2nd half of games. They have 4 players who score between 9-11 points per game (Lenny Young, Kareem Brown, Michael Harper, Vince Goldsberry); and at times they have other players (like Reggins last night) who take the high water mark beyond that.

Coppin returns to action Saturday afternoon in Princess Anne when they visit UMES.

7. Towson Official Site previews Tigers’ trip to Old Dominion tonight

According to Sportsbook.com, the Monarchs are 22 point favorites in this game. Drew Forrester seemed surprised by that, which only makes me wonder if Drew Forrester is somehow not familiar with Towson basketball despite seeing them more than anyone who is not actually part of the team.

Obviously, this would be a great victory for Pat Kennedy’s bunch if they could go down to the Ted Constant Convocation Center and win. It would take a minor miracle though.

8. UMBC Official Site previews Matt Spadafora’s Senior Night tonight at RAC Arena against Stony Brook

2 days ago, if you had given me 12 guesses, I’m not sure I could have told you that the Sea Wolves were atop the America East standings. (That was a joke about how I wouldn’t have known the Sea Wolves were even in America East. Like I always say, if you want my jokes to make more than just ME laugh, you people better start paying me more.)

And much like Towson, a win tonight would be a really good win for Randy Monroe’s crew, especially considering that it is their final chance to win even a single game in Catonsville this season. Unfortunately, also a lot like Towson-it is unlikely.

9. The Sun’s Dan Connolly says even more responsibility resting on Wieters’ shoulders in first full season with Orioles

Yeah, but….

(Thanks Matt Wieters Facts!)

In all seriousness, there are clearly a lot of expectations surrounding Matt Wieters this season, both fair and unfair. He will have a lot of responsibility with a young pitching staff that this organization is clearly hoping will become a viable MLB staff by the end of the year. On top of that, there are a number of people very close to the organization that are hoping he’ll prove himself to be a middle of the lineup-type hitter; especially considering the team lacks players like that.

Is it too much to ask? I guess we’ll find out.

10. Ravens Official Site’s Mike Duffy says former NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah believes Flacco has “Top 5 arm”

Great. Kyle Boller had an arm so strong that he threw a ball 60 yards through the uprights. It didn’t keep him from also doing this…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9n4DlmibDQ[/youtube]

Look, we ALL know Joe Flacco has a strong arm. But having a strong arm and having the mental capability to be a great NFL quarterback are too very different things. It also helps to have NFL-ready playmakers for a QB with a strong arm to throw the ball too.

Over the next 4-5 years, we will likely begin to find out if Joe Flacco is a QB with a strong arm or a GREAT NFL QB with a strong arm.

11. ESPN.com’s James Walker expects Ravens to ‘push’ to keep at least one of Justin Bannan, Dwan Edwards on roster

There’s no reason NOT to expect this, as the organization is very happy with both players, and expects them to continue to develop.

That being said, keeping players like Brandon McKinney and Kelly Talavou out of Training Camp a season has to be considered part of an insurance policy should they not be able to hold onto players like Bannan and Edwards.

12. Thoroughbred Times’ Frank Angst says Magna still looking for ‘stalking horse’ bid

Which sorta goes against what Jeff Seder from Blow Horn Equity had stated previously on AM1570 WNST, that his group had the “stalking horse bid.” This whole situation is really getting to be damningly frustrating. PNC Bank wants to get the money back that they loaned Magna; and they SHOULD be able to get it back. The other bidders want to know more about the future of their potential investment, the state wants to make sure it is keeping the Preakness, and the Maryland Jockey Club REALLY doesn’t want slots at Arundel Mills.

The bottom line….to all of this….is that SOMEONE needs to own and run the tracks and help horse racing in this state move forward. Right now, that is the only thing that ISN’T happening.

And finally, I leave you with this.

With Dave Matthews Band coming to Nationals Park July 23rd, a friend recently asked me if I could name my favorite Dave Matthews Band songs of all time.

I couldn’t.

I know “Louisiana Bayou” is in the mix, as are “Angel” and “So Right”, but there has to be an older song that gets on the list, and I’m not sure which one it would be. “Two Step” I guess. The point of all of this rambling is that I realized recently that a song on “Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King” has made its way into my Top 5.

“Seven”

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWAk9lyW_Ic[/youtube]

It’s just THAT good. Of course, maybe it’s the song title; as the Prince song of the same name was pretty good too…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMjZm_C4Hhs[/youtube]

Talk to you later.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…..

-G

Baltimore, MD As the final seconds of Morgan State’s 48-47 win over Bethune-Cookman ticked off the clock Monday night at Hill Field House, coach Todd Bozeman’s blood pressure couldn’t help but reach a fever pitch. After misses from CJ Reed and Albert Abrahams allowed the clock to reach zero, Bozeman’s Bears finally had a chance to breathe after a trying weekend.

For the second straight weekend, Morgan State was forced to play on back to back days due to snow. But unlike the previous weekend, Morgan’s opponent Monday night was a solid Bethune-Cookman team that hadn’t played since a Friday night win at Coppin State. While both teams had to deal with the weekend storm, Bozeman’s Bears were forced to shuffle their plans on multiple occasions, as their game against Florida A&M was pushed back from Saturday to Sunday afternoon; then pushed back again to Sunday night just two hours before they were scheduled to tip off.

Bozeman confirmed to me that he reached out to MEAC officials regarding the scheduling troubles; but said the FAMU game had to be played because MSU would have had to foot the bill for the Rattlers to go back to Tallahassee and return this week. Bozeman was quick to point out that both George Washington and Georgetown had played games Saturday despite the snow, and he would have preferred to have played that game as scheduled.

With the Morgan campus closed, the Bears clearly felt the effects of cabin fever-as Bozeman was clearly shaken by events “off the basketball court” besides the weather. A school official later confirmed to me that two major contributors to the Bears team were involved in a scuffle during the weekend, with the altercation having an impact on the entire team.

Bozeman said the troubles surrounding the team were evident in shootaround before the game against the Wildcats, and he was frustrated by the “lazy” free-throw shooting his team practiced. It was evident during the game, as the Bears shot just 12-23 from the free throw line.

Through all of that, and despite all-world guard Reggie Holmes scoring just 6 points (including his own dreadful 1-6 performance at the charity stripe); the Bears managed to win Monday night. With their win, they improved to 18-7 overall, 10-0 in conference play. They have 6 conference games left on their schedule (a date with Winston-Salem State Saturday and an ESPNU BracketBuster trip to Murray State will give them a break); and with this difficult weekend behind them, they have a realistic shot at going 16-0 in conference play. A trip to Delaware State appears to be the only REAL road block between the Bears and perfection, although a home date with rival Coppin State to end the season could always pose a challenge.

BUT-nothing will be able to match the challenge they faced over the last 48 hours.

Moving forward, Bozeman knows his team will be forced to “build” on the adversity they battled over the weekend. Simply recognizing they survived isn’t enough. They will have a bulls-eye on their back every time out as they try to win a 3rd straight MEAC regular season title and get the top spot in the MEAC Tournament, where they’ll be looking for their 2nd straight bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Those accomplishments would be even more special if they could be combined with an undefeated season in conference play.

The Bears aren’t talking about that possibility though, at least not when Todd Bozeman is in earshot. Continuing the theme of a “1 game season”, Bozeman told me his players know better than to even discuss the possibility. That being said, the reality is that perfection is a real possibility. Reaching 16-0 in the MEAC would be a first for Morgan, and would mark the first time in conference history that a team not named Coppin State finished the regular season undefeated (the Eagles have actually pulled off the feat 4 times).

It’s out there. It’s attainable. However, if the Bears go 16-0 in the regular season but lose in the semifinals of the MEAC Tournament, going 16-0 won’t help them at all when they face their first round opponent in the NIT.

But at the same point, it would be a hell of an accomplishment. And a pursuit worthy of support from alumni and Baltimore sports fans alike.

-G

Happy Tuesday!

It’s a happy Tuesday for me (DESPITE staying up until 3am just to see Andy Roddick collapse again in the 5th set) because we had a great night at Hill Field House last night watching Morgan State paste UMES. The Morgan State band is always one of the highlights of a trip to see the Bears, and last night was no different. I didn’t get any new video of the band, but their highlight last night was a version of “Lollipop” by Lil’ Wayne. Thanks to the guy who filmed them doing it during football season….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46SHhjrf1LE[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say….

1. Pro Football Talk/NBC Sports’ Mike Florio reports former Patriots DC Dean Pees to become new Ravens LB Coach

Pees has a track record as a capable coach, even if his stint as Pats DC wasn’t as successful as fans in New England had hoped for. I think Pees would be a very nice addition to this Ravens staff, whether or not he is just taking the job in hopes of getting the old “Ray Lewis rub” that a number of coaches have gotten.

Pees’ link to John Harbaugh is via Miami (Ohio) University, where Harbaugh played CB under Pees as defensive coordinator. So far, I have found no link between either coach and Wally Szczerbiak, but I wish there was….

2. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Vic Fangio could still have future with Ravens even if Pees hired to coach LB’s

I saw a lot of comments yesterday like “It’s a shame Vic Fangio had to learn he was getting fired this way”, but I just don’t know that we can assume that. Fangio came to this team in an undefined defensive assistant role, and I think it is safe to think that he might stay on in a defensive assistant role, with a focus on quality control.

For a team that struggled with small situations last year (need we relive the timeout disasters, review mistakes and the loss of 5 yards on a ball spot blunder), maybe having a single coach focused directly on quality control would be a good idea.

Remember, this is just me speculating. But Fangio is a Harbaugh guy, and I just don’t see him being given his walking papers to make way for Dean Pees. Something tells me this was worked out beforehand.

3. Chicago Tribune’s Vaughn McClure says Hue Jackson won’t interview with Bears

According to information obtained by WNST this morning, we expect Jackson to accept the Offensive Coordinator job with the Raiders.

And why not?

The Raiders have JaMarcus Russell, Chaz Schilens and Al Davis!

Best of luck to Hue Jackson. I’m just not certain this is a great move for him.

I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Drew’s speculation surrounding Al Saunders moving into Jackson’s role ended up being accurate, either.

4. Ravens Official Site’s Mike Duffy says team would be best to keep Derrick Mason

I understand Duff’s thought process here. With a likely uncapped year, the “Final 8″ rules will really hurt Ozzie Newsome’s pursuit of a legitimate playmaker at WR. With that in mind, Mason is a known commodity who has constantly put up numbers and been a reliable target right here in Charm City.

It makes sense.

Problem is, Derrick has to be willing to accept that he’s not getting the typical “big money” deal that many #1 wideouts would get. He also has to be willing to accept that the team wants to upgrade at WR, bringing in a new #1 threat that will likely take away from the number of times Joe Flacco goes to Mason.

I don’t necessarily think bringing back Derrick Mason would be a bad idea. In fact, I think the Ravens could be well served to have him for another season as they try to push towards a Super Bowl. But I don’t think it will be as easy as saying “we want you back.”

5. ESPN.com’s James Walker says losing Bart Scott, Jason Brown, Jim Leonhard and Marques Douglas could land Ravens multiple compensatory NFL Draft picks

Which makes the preparation the Ravens did last week in Orlando and this week at the Senior Bowl all the more important. This team is going to have to find some NFL-ready players in April’s Draft, as they will be hard pressed to keep all of the guys facing free agency, and they are a bit handcuffed by the Final 8 rules.

I couldn’t help but notice that Kyle Boller wasn’t on that list. He’s not an impact player per se, but isn’t he worth something?!?!?

6. Morgan State Official Site says Reggie Holmes, Troy Smith combined for 40 as Bears pasted UMES at Hill Field House

Just an overwhelming performance from Todd Bozeman’s crew last night. Troy Smith has really come on for them, responding after an incident in December that Todd Bozeman would only describe as a “transgression” postgame.

I guess you have to consider the fact that UMES was the opponent, but Frankie Allen has made improvements in Princess Anne, and the Hawks were coming off a win at Coppin State on Saturday. They had absolutely NOTHING to offer against Morgan last night.

The Bears return to action Saturday evening at Norfolk State, as they continue their quest for a perfect season in MEAC play. If you missed Todd Bozeman with Drew Forrester on “The Comcast Morning Show” this morning, check out the Audio Vault at WNST.net.

7. The AP says Quinston Reggins scored 14, but Coppin State fell to Delaware State at CSPEC

This was one of the Eagles’ best chances to make sure they got a win in conference play this season. They will be fighting to get a victory the rest of the way. They return to action Saturday afternoon at North Carolina A&T.

8. Maryland Official Site previews tonight’s ACC tilt with Miami at Comcast Center

It’s WAAAY too easy to say that the Terps shouldn’t lose to the ‘Canes tonight. We all know the Terps shouldn’t lose to the ‘Canes tonight. But there is certainly a danger to how well the Terrapins have been playing recently, as they need to remain focused. Frank Haith has had good success against Gary Williams, but usually with a more veteran team.

If I had to guess, I’d say 81-70 Maryland.

9. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Jordan Williams excelling because he takes pride in playing with ‘back to basket’

I’m running out of adjectives to use to describe Jordan Williams-and his career is 18 games old.

As he progresses, this team can continue to go far this season. If he continues to improve during ACC play-the Sweet 16 aspirations this team had before the season could be very legitimate. If he levels off, this team will likely end up back on the NCAA Tournament bubble.

10. Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg remembers former Maryland AD Jim Kehoe

I wish I had gotten to know Jim Kehoe before he passed away. He certainly did a tremendous job as Athletic Director at Maryland, and he was honored with a moment of silence before Saturday night’s win over NC State.

I’d like to add more here, I am just forced to admit that I don’t know a whole lot more about Jim than what you can read in Stan’s story.

11. The Sun’s Dan Connolly and Jeff Zrebiec say Jeremy Guthrie doesn’t think anything changes for him with Kevin Millwood joining staff

And other than not starting on Opening Day, he’s right. He will still have high expectations this season, and he will have to perform better than he did a season ago to remain a mainstay in an Orioles rotation with a lot of young pitchers coming up.

Here’s a more important question. When the Birds decided NOT to persue FA pitcher Brad Penny this offseason, were they aware he was dating Karina Smirnoff???

12. ESPN.com’s Eric Karabell says O’s lineup full of fantasy “sleepers”

He’s exactly right. This team is full of “sleepers.” If they all turn out to be rock stars, this team will be in good shape. If they turn out to be sleep-ing, they’ll be in trouble. But a lineup with Brian Roberts, Adam Jones, Nick Markakis, Miguel Tejada, Garrett Atkins, Matt Wieters, Nolan Reimold, Luke Scott and Cesar Izturis looks on paper like it might be credible.

At least if someone in that group turns out to be a power hitter.

And finally, I leave you with this.

I have NO IDEA how I missed this, but thank God it was directed back to me. Back when Bruce Springsteen was honored by the Kennedy Center, Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder did a version of the Boss’ outstanding tune “My City of Ruins”….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvMFdAtsRTg[/youtube]

WOW.

Apparently you can buy the song on iTunes to help some sort of charity. Maybe Haiti. Maybe cancer. I should’ve done more research here. Go buy the tune.

Talk to you tonight from College Park.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…..

-G

Happy Monday!

It’s a happy Monday for me because I was able to take my new TV out for a walk yesterday with the AFC & NFC Championship Games, and added about 3-450 of these guys to the equation….

If the team isn’t playing, at least I drink to them. And I DID!

Let’s see what everyone has to say….

1. Ravens Official Site says available TE’s include Ben Watson (unrestricted); Owen Daniels, Bo Scaife, Tony Scheffler (all restricted)

I believe it to be much less likely that the Ravens sign a TE than it is that they sign a WR-and the likelihood of even that is probably based on the entire CBA/cap situation, and who knows what might happen there. As I wrote in my Draft update blog yesterday, keep an eye on Jimmy Graham out of Miami-the former hoops player who still has a chance to develop into a special type of player. He’s at the Senior Bowl this week and fits the bill for what the Ravens will more likely be looking at when it comes to TE. Todd Heap will remain this team’s top guy at the position, but they want a player who can contribute and develop into a better target moving forward.

2. The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Ravens will lose level of leadership if Ed Reed retires

I think KVV makes a very good point here-and it adds to the multitude of reasons that I’ve said the Ravens would be DRASTICALLY hurt by losing Ed Reed. While Ed is NOT a “rah rah” guy or necessarily even a vocal “leader” type, his filmstudy and desire to make an impact on the football field is absolutely infectious. He sees things in the film room and knows he can make them translate on the field. He outsmarts QB’s, and he incorporates other defensive players to help.

All that being said, Ed is still a goof. Despite the fact that we saw him “coaching” on the sideline this season while he was injured, he is not going to come back here to coach Ravens safeties in the future. That’s just not in his nature. But the aspects of leadership he brings to a football team will be missed if that night in Indianapolis is the last we see of him.

3. UMBC Official Site says Chris De La Rosa’s 18 not enough as Retrievers fell to Boston University

Yep.

There’s a half a chance this team could even beat the Retrievers……

I’m kidding of course.

There’s not much else to say about Randy Monroe’s ballclub. They need to try to get an America East victory, and hope that some of their guys will continue to develop towards next season. Their next shot at a victory is against Binghamton Wednesday night back in Catonsville.

4. The AP’s David Ginsburg says Duke women held on late for 58-57 win over Terps at Comcast Center

Brenda Frese’s team had won 48 straight games at Comcast Center before this week, then lost back to back games to Miami and Duke.

There’s clearly talent in College Park, just not the type of talent to carry that team down the stretch in games that they need to put away. The Terrapins had their chances in the final minute last night, but they did not have a player to carry them with everything on the line.

Two home losses puts a lot of pressure on a team that is trying to continue a streak of consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. They return to action Thursday night at Virginia Tech.

5. The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Gary Williams’ Terps have ‘staying power’

Watching them play over the last few weeks, it’s hard to argue with that. They are doing things the right way right now, playing tough inside to mix with solid defense and (believe it or not), timely shooting. They’ve played some REALLY good basketball over the last 16 days-starting with their win over Florida State, a win that may end up having staying power thanks to the ‘Noles sweep of Georgia Tech.

6. Terrapin Trail’s Aaron Kraut says Cliff Tucker in ‘comfort zone’ right now

Cliff has admitted in the past that he has struggled in practice-which has lead to seeing his minutes diminished as Gary Williams lost faith in him. But as he continues to practice well and make good decisions on the floor, he will continue to get minutes. If he tries to do too much or doesn’t practice the way he’s supposed to play, he’ll see his role limited again.

7. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens has Terps IN NCAA Tournament now

I guess….

I still don’t think Maryland necessarily has the resume to say they’re IN, but i do belief they’re a safe bet to GET in, barring an unfortunate collapse.

That’s the difficult part of projecting a 65 team field. I think Maryland will get in, but the lack of quality wins would hurt their resume if the season were over today. After facing Miami Tuesday night-they get their next shot at a “quality” victory Sunday night at Clemson.

8. Morgan State Official Site previews tonight’s showdown with UMES at Hill Field House

I couldn’t fathom the Hawks giving the Bears any sort of test tonight-but I’ll head over there anyway. The idea of a perfect season in MEAC play isn’t crazy. I really believe Todd Bozeman’s team is capable of doing it, but I don’t necessarily think it will happen.

9. Delaware State Official Site previews tonight’s MEAC battle with Coppin State in Baltimore

On the flip side, the Eagles are certainly approaching UMBC territory in terms of DESPERATELY needing a conference win to salvage as much as they can this season. The Hornets are certainly a beatable opponent.

10. The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says moving to third base won’t be ‘easy’ for Tejada

Of course it won’t.

That being said, if I’m a betting man-I’d say Tejada handles the move just fine for the 4 or so months he’s back in Charm City. I’d also say he hits about .296 during that stretch-and maybe helps the team to acquire SOMETHING.

Is it a good move? Sure. Is it a move that get the Orioles closer to contending? I’m absolutely not convinced of that.

And finally, I leave you with this.

A couple of really important things came with the Saints’ win over the Vikings in New Orleans yesterday.

1-We’ll never again have to hear the song “Purple and Gold” that Prince wrote for the Vikes, which only proves that sometimes geniuses can still miss….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDs3U9IeYg0[/youtube]

2-Having Reggie Bush and the Saints in the Super Bowl of course means two more weeks of Kim Kardashian, which is absolutely NOT.A.PROBLEM.

Talk to you later today.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…..

-G

Honorable Mention-Women’s College Basketball: Miami @ Maryland (Thursday 7pm Comcast Center), Duke @ Maryland (Sunday 8pm from Comcast Center live on Comcast SportsNet locally/Fox Sports Net nationally); Boxing: Steve Luevano vs. Juan Manuel Lopez (Saturday 9:45pm from New York live on HBO); High School Basketball: Carver @ Perry Hall (Tuesday 5:15pm), C. Milton Wright @ Aberdeen (Tuesday 6:45pm), Edgewood @ Havre de Grace (Tuesday 6:45pm)

10-Jeff Dunham (Thursday 7:30pm Verizon Center), Cheap Trick (Saturday 8pm Rams Head Live), Cheech & Chong (Saturday 8pm Meyerhoff Symphony Hall), George Strait and Reba McEntire (Friday 7:30pm 1st Mariner Arena)

Yeah, so, these guys are pretty funny……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndaXQeRPO0g[/youtube]

And these guys are ABSOLUTELY one of the most underrated bands in American history….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th370QmFtk8[/youtube]

And while I have NO interest in seeing Reba, I’ve needed an excuse to post this little piece of SNL brilliance in a blog….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rg85BxArn7M[/youtube]

9-Maryland State Cheer & Dance Championship (Saturday 8am 1st Mariner Arena)

Look, if the people involved in this competition looked like this, this would be Number 1 on the list…

But since I’m PRETTY sure the people are involved are going to look more like this…..

…..so only Ray Bachman will be excited.

And NOT because he’s a pedophile-his girl coaches cheerleaders, so he’s sorta been forced into their world.

You guys are sick.

8-College Football: East West Shrine Game (Saturday 3pm from Orlando live on ESPN2)

OH MY GOD IT’S NFL DRAFT SEASON!!!!!!!!!

Maybe you guys aren’t as big of Draft nerds as I am, but you should be. I mean, what if Blair White completely goes off on Saturday? Could he be a Baltimore Raven next season? Holy crap I’m excited.

Maybe even more excited than when we stopped near Columbus for food Friday on the way to Indianapolis and I managed to find this……

Wow.

7-Golf: Bob Hope Classic (Wednesday-Friday 3pm, Saturday & Sunday 4pm from La Quinta, CA live on Golf Channel)

Oh, Bob Hope…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgUlWIq3b3w[/youtube]

Wait, did I just put Golf on this list? GOLF? There better be a Tiger Woods whore picture coming….

HEY! Here’s Loredana Jolie!!!!

Everything is better now.

6-NBA: Mavericks @ Wizards (Wednesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Heat @ Wizards (Friday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Clippers @ Wizards (Sunday 1pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet)

Since the ‘Zards stink, I have an idea of how they can still make our WNST bus trip to DC entertaining. I think Flip Saunders just channel WWE Champion Sheamus and put Mark Cuban THROUGH A TABLE……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMotWBNkb3c[/youtube]

Of course, it’s not quite as good as when the Dudley Boyz used to put 80 year old women through tables…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jgt95pDXuM[/youtube]

5-NHL: Red Wings @ Capitals (Tuesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Capitals @ Penguins (Thursday 7:30pm from Pittsburgh live on Comcast SportsNet and NHL Network), Coyotes @ Capitals (Saturday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet)

Ugh. I don’t even root for the Caps and I feel bad for them for having to go to Pittsburgh. What an awful place.

I mean seriously, what the hell is THIS?!?!?!

Have you heard the story about how people have gone to see the movie Avatar and then gone into depression because our world isn’t like Pandora? Pittsburgh is a lot like that. People go there and immediately don’t want to kill themselves anymore because they realize life isn’t so bad.

And since we’re talking about Avatar, here’s a picture of Zoe Saldana. Don’t say I never did anything for you.

4-Soccer: Team USA vs. Honduras (Saturday 9pm from Carson, CA live on Fox Soccer Channel), Baltimore Blast @ Milwaukee Wave (Saturday 7pm streamed live on B2liveTV.com)

Can things get worse for the Red, White & Blue? First Charlie Davies, then Oguchi Onyewu, now Clint Dempsey? Who the hell is gonna be left to play? Soccer Dog?!?!?

3-Tennis: Australian Open (Tuesday 3am & 9pm, Wednesday 3am & 11pm, Thursday & Friday 3am & 9pm, Saturday 3am & 10pm, Sunday 3am & 7pm, Monday 3:30am & 9pm live on ESPN2; Tuesday-Monday 7pm live on Tennis Channel. All tennis from Melbourne, AUS)

Thank god Andy Roddick is still around, because I was about ready to give up after Maria Sharapova was eliminated.

Of course, my all time favorite Australian Open eye candy remains former champion Mary Pierce…..

And no, it’s NOT just because she was engaged to Roberto Alomar….

2-College Basketball: Longwood @ Maryland (Tuesday 8pm from Comcast Center live on Comcast SportsNet PLUS), NC State @ Maryland (Saturday 6pm from Comcast Center live on ESPN2); Northeastern @ Towson (Wednesday 7pm Towson Center), George Mason @ Towson (Saturday 4pm from Towson Center live on MASN); New Hampshire @ UMBC (Thursday 7pm RAC Arena), Boston U @ UMBC (Sunday 1pm RAC Arena); Delaware State @ Morgan State (Saturday 4pm Hill Field House), UMES @ Morgan State (Monday 7:30pm Hill Field House); UMES @ Coppin State (Saturday 4pm Coppin State Physical Education Complex), Delaware State @ Coppin State (Monday 7:30pm Coppin State Physical Education Complex)

Heh. You said “Longwood.”

Oh, North Carolina State. Remember when your fans were SO EXCITED to see Sidney Lowe replace Herb Sendek? How’s that worked out for you???

You know, other than no longer having a coach who looked like he was from Whoville……

1-NFL Playoffs: AFC Championship Game: Jets @ Colts (Sunday 3:30pm from Indianapolis live on CBS), NFC Championship Game: Vikings @ Saints (Sunday 6:40pm from New Orleans live on FOX)

Unlike the rest of Charm City, I’m really NOT rooting for Rex Ryan, Bart Scott, Jim Leonhard, etc. You see, they play in New York-and that’s where the Yankees play. That being said, I would never……EVER…..root for the Colts. Ever. So I’ll be rooting for both teams to lose.

In the NFC, I actually really still dig Brett Favre, so it’s hard to root against him. BUT, Heather Rothstein roots for the Saints…..

So…..WHO DAT?!?!?!?

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983……

-G

Here are your weekend picks….

Maryland 23, Duke 13

I don’t care what Eron Riley (and everyone else) says. Maryland is NOT losing a football game to Duke. They’re NOT. I refuse to believe so.

Wake Forest 28, Navy 17

I think losing Ricky Dobbs REALLY hurts the Mids.

Towson 16, Northeastern 6

The Huskies are TERRIBLE. Rob Ambrose’s bunch can’t lose games that are should-win, since there are only a couple on the schedule.

Morgan State 20, Delaware State 12

The Bears are playing REALLY good football right now.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Bob Haynie wonders who Ravens’ MVP is 6 weeks in

Drew Forrester calls out nameless commentators

Ed Frankovic says Caps 5-4 winners over Thrashers

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ngata believes defense needs to play ‘technically-sound football’

The Official Site says Ray Lewis, Todd Heap, Domonique Foxworth nominated for Community Service Award

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Dwan Edwards making difference after undergoing spinal fusion

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Samari Rolle believes secondary needs to ‘make plays’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Dwan Edwards made most of chance to start for Trevor Pryce

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco says Ravens do NOT have dominant defense

ESPN.com’s James Walker interested in seeing how much secondary improves during bye week

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terrell Skinner, Danny Edwards will carry flags on field for tomorrow’s trip to Duke

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Gary Douglas OUT, Davin Meggett and Caleb Porzel will have to shoulder load at RB

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Chris Turner explained squabble with Friedgen as ‘misunderstanding’

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Bruce Campbell’s injury has really hurt Chris Turner

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Kerry Boykins, Bennett Fulper will also miss tomorrow’s game against Devils

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Fridge may have to choose between giving Morgan Green another shot or burning D.J. Adams’ redshirt

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Turner thinks Terps will be ‘loaded’ at QB in Spring

Washington Post’s Matt Bonesteel says Linganore OL prospect Havenstein picked Wisconsin over Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps facing Devils for first time in 5 years

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens picks Duke 28-21

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says RB Re’quan Boyette, LB Abraham Kromah, WR Tyree Watkins will all miss tomorrow’s game for Duke

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says class of ’08 already panning out

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary Douglas will miss game with shoulder injury

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Stephen St. John not moving up to varsity yet, will play in JV game

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Lansford Watson will also miss game

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Maryland, Duke battling to avoid being worst team in ACC

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich picks Duke 28-20

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Carl Russell has improved this season (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says TE Schlothhauer called up to varsity, will travel to Durham (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings offers quick facts for Terps, Blue Devils

Turtle Sports Report’s Pete Volk says Tyler Smith still fully committed to Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Dino Gregory likely to be 5th starter

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker, Dino Gregory worked out with trainer Jay Hernandez in offseason

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary Williams doesn’t want to stick around too long, ‘cheat’ college basketball

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terrence Ross hung with future teammates James Padgett, Jordan Williams earlier this month (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says guard prospect Kenny Chery playing for former Terps assistant Michael Adams at Archbishop Carroll (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports’ Report’s Pete Volk checks in with ’10 prospect Tsafack (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter expects Dara Taylor, Anjale Barrett, Lynetta Kizer, Essence Townsend, Diandra Tchatchouang to be starting 5 for Terps (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says kicker Joe Buckley hot right now

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Dobbs OUT for tomorrow’s game against Wake

Washington Post’s Camille Powell stacks up Proctor against Wake Forest QB Riley Skinner

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Kriss Proctor will start for Dobbs

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Dobbs hurt himself on 2nd play of win over SMU

Winston-Salem Journal says Niumatalolo has ‘confidence’ in Proctor

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Dobbs could return next week against Temple

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says Mids will need ‘resiliency’ to beat Demon Deacons (must subscribe)

Go Mids offers quick facts for Terps, Deacs

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site checks in with Midshipmen during first week of practice

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site’s Dan O’Connell remembers Tigers’ ’92 thriller over Northeastern

UMBC BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says 4 Retrievers games will air on MASN

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Alden Gonzalez says Birds must make decisions on free agents Danys Baez, Mark Hendrickson

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Perrault threw scoreless inning of relief in Arizona Fall League

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says Laurel-based Ravalo happy to be running at home in De Francis Dash

SWIMMING:

UK Press says Phelps headed to Great Britain for first time in December for ‘Duel in the Pool’

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-John Turner asked that we not discuss anything further, but here is what I can share with you from him….

“It’s gotten WAY too much attention. It’s a message board. Never meant for it to go to the media.

There have been other threads on the same topic and it was never publicized. I should have kept quiet. It’s embarrassing me and my family.”

I’m not gonna bother to go any farther than this. John needs to know that his public comments on a message board are available for ANYONE to see; but he was right to say he “should have kept quiet.”

-I was talking to a NFC Scout yesterday-who played for 10 years as a defensive player in the NFL. He said this to me about the blame everyone through towards Frank Walker in the 2nd half of the loss to the Vikings….

“Blaming Frank Walker for what happened in that game would be akin to blaming a wide receiver for not catching a football that is thrown 2 feet over his head. In those situations, there is nothing else a cornerback can do. The ball is WAY over his head because a play has broken down due to missed assignments and too much time for a CB to throw the ball.”

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G