tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48333850211200881772024-02-18T18:41:31.154-08:00Fat Guy CoalitionBay Area Sport BuffetKoskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.comBlogger269125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-41047890428145555422010-01-28T11:12:00.001-08:002010-01-28T11:13:08.327-08:00Retooling FatGuyCoalitionFGC will be down for the next couple weeks as I try and retool the format and content. I want to try and get a weekly podcast going, so hopefully we'll be back up in March.Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-12878004274397504102009-12-28T09:49:00.000-08:002009-12-28T10:41:44.322-08:00Checking the Wire 12/28/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Tim Kawakami's Hitmen of the Year, Tim Lincecum/Barry Zito. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/28/2009-talking-points-hitmen-of-the-year-tim-lincecum-and-barry-zito-for-very-different-reasons/">SJ Merc</a>] Yup, that prety much sums the current state of the Giants.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />The Niners' win is tempered by the crappy opponent. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/27/SPF41B9TI8.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />The investment in Ahmad Brooks is paying off. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/27/SPF41B9THV.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />Alex Smith is still sending mixed signals about his abilities. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/sports/ci_14079416?nclick_check=1">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />The big news for the Raiders yesterday was Janikowski kicking a 61-yard FG. You're 2009 Oakland Raiders! [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/27/SPF41B9TI5.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />The Warriors stil stink, while other once stinky teams have bettered themselves. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/26/SPTF1B9JIV.DTL">SF Gate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-15202566509186017832009-12-24T12:55:00.000-08:002009-12-24T12:56:21.231-08:002009 NFL Pick'em battle RT vs. Koski Week 16Hmmm, the last month has been a rollercoaster for me: 3-0, 0-3, 3-0, 0-2-1. Time to right the ship over these last two weeks. I can't lose to RT in back to back weeks.<br /><br />This week's picks:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">RT(18-25-2)</span><br /><br /><ul><li style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Browns -3 v. Raiders</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >The Raiders won last week and we all know what that means ... they have no chance this week. Then take into account that the Browns are trying their best to fall out of the top five in the draft - you have a lock on your hands. Browns by a lot.<br /></span><span><span><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" >Vikings -7 @ Bears</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" >Everyone knows I root for the Bears but let's face it ... they gave up on their season about 13 weeks ago. The Vikings are coming off two bad losses and they, like the Packers, are going to come out mad and drill the sorry ass football team which is the 2009 Chicago Bears. This game looks good at Vikings -13.<br /></span><span><span><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span></li><li style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Jaguars +9 @ Patriots<br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >How many weeks do we have to watch the Patriots until we realize that they are not very good. The Jags seem to play the Patriots tough, so give me the points.<br /><br /></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">Koski (28-16-1)</span><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:georgia;" >Ravens +3 @ Steelers</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Ravens are better than people think and have been playing like it the last couple weeks. The Steelers pulled one out of their arse last week. Baltimore punches its playoff ticket and eliminates the Steelers this week.</span><br /></span></span><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Packers -14 v. Seahawks</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Packers lost a heartbreaker next week and are looking to take out their aggression on someone. The Seahawks are the perfect punching bag with terrible cornerbacks for Rodgers to exploit.<br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Eagles -7 v. Broncos</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Eagles might be the best team in the NFL. Don't believe me? <a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/dvoa-ratings/2009/week-15-dvoa-ratings">Read this.</a> The Broncos started off hot, but are 2-6 over their last eight. Plus, Philly needs this win to lock up the NFC East.</span></span></span><br /></li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 1 Results</span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">49ers +6.5 @ ARI, Cowboys -6 @ TB, Vikings -4.5 @CLE</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Packers -3.5 v. CHI,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Patriots -11 v. BUF, Chargers -9 @ OAK<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 2 Results<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Koski: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Raiders+3 @KC, </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Packers-9.5 v. CIN, Chargers-3 v. Ravens</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Titans-6.5 @ Texans, Steelers-1@CHI, Panthers+6.5 @ ATL<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Week 3 Results<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Koski: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Giants -6.5 @ Buccaneers, Jets -1 @ Titans, 49ers +6.5 @ Vikings</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Texans -3.5 v. Jaguars</span>, <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Lions +65 v. Redskins, Bengals +4 v. Steelers</span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 4 Results<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Koski: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Titans -3 @ Jaguars, <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Giants -9 @ Chiefs, <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chargers +6.5 @ Steelers<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">RT:</span> Bengals -5.5 @ Browns, Cowboys -3 @ Broncos, <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Patriots -1 v. Ravens<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 5 Results</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Koski:</span> Giants -14.5 v. Raiders, <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Jets -1 @ Dolphins, 49ers -2.5 v. Falcons</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">RT:</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Bucs +15.5 v. Eagles,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Patriots -3 @ Bronco,</span> Colts -3.5 @ Titans<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 6 Results</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Koski:</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Giants +3.5 @ Saints,</span> Packers -13.5 v. Lions, Patriots -9.5 v. Titans<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">RT:</span> Seahawks -3 v. Cardinals, <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Browns +14 @ Steelers,</span> Eagles -14 @ Raiders<br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 7 Results</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Packers -9.5 v. Lions, Bengals -1 v. Bears, Colts -13.5 @ Rams</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Vikings +5.5 @ Steelers, </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Jets -6 @ Raiders,</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">49ers +3 @ Texans<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 8 Results</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Texans -3.5 @ Bills, <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Jaguars +3 @ Titans,</span> Falcons +10 @ Saints</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cardinals -10 v. Panthers,</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Ravens -3.5 v. Broncos,</span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">49ers +11.5 @ Colts<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Week 9 Results</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Patriots -10.5 v. Dolphins</span>, <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Cardinals +3 @ Bears, Falcons -10 v. Redskins</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Packers -9.5 @ Buccaneers</span>, <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Texans +9 @ Colts,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Eagles -3 v. Cowboys<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 10 Results</span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Vikings -16.5 v. Lions, Titans -7 v. Bills, Ravens -10.5 @Browns</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Cardinals -9 v. Seahawks, Rams +13.5 v. Saints,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Raiders -1 v. Chiefs<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 11 Results</span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Steelers -10 @ Chiefs</span>, <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Patriots -10.5 v. Jets,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Jaguars -9 v. Bills</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Eagles -3 @ Bears, </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cardinals 9.5 @ Rams,</span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Falcons +6.5 @ Giants<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 12 Results</span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Vikings -10.5 v. Bears, Broncos +7 v. Giants, 49ers -3 v. Jaguars</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chiefs +13.5 @ Chargers, Eagles -9 v. Redskins, Patriots +3 @ Saints<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 13 Results</span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Patriots -5 @ Dolphins, Chargers -13 @ Browns, Vikings -4.5 @ Arizona</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Seattle -1 v. 49ers, Panthers -6.5 v. Buccaneers,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Titans +6.5 @ Colts<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 14 Results<br /></span><span>Koski: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Packers - 3.5 @ Bears, Chargers +3 @ Cowboys, Colts -7 v. Broncos</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Redskins -1 @ Raiders,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Bengals +6.5 @ Vikings, Buccaneers +3 v. Jets<br /></span></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Week 15 Results</span></span></span><br />Koski: <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Broncos -14 v. Raiders,</span> <span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Packers +1 @ Steelers,</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> Niners +9 @ Eagles</span><br />RT: <span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Dolphins +3 @ Titans,</span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Cowboys +9 @ Saints,</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Seahawks -6.5 v. Buccaneers</span>Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-48121793335013313272009-12-23T09:02:00.000-08:002009-12-23T09:09:57.509-08:00Checking the Wire 12/23/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />CJ Watson is the Warriors "best" player this season. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/22/warriors-top-performer-so-far-c-j-watson-according-to-the-peripheral-stats/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />WFB says, "Ho-hum" about last night's loss. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/warriors/2009/12/22/just-another-night-warriors-108-griz-121/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />It's going to be ugly between Cleveland and Oakland. Very ugly. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/12/22/browns-raiders-no-passing-fancy/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />The A's are winning the offseason battle vs. the Giants. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/23/SPH91B85HR.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>] Although I'm disappointed, who cares about winning the offseasaon?Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-25539738459346214482009-12-22T11:25:00.000-08:002009-12-22T11:26:15.977-08:00RT Checks the Wire 12/22/09<span style="font-weight:bold;">Football</span><br /><br />* Singletary decides to apologize for Smith. Last time I check, Singletary is not God so it is not his fault Smith does not have the talent to be a good quarterback in the NFL. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/21/SPAD1B7Q9R.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* Shockingly, smart people don't want to travel to one of the worst cities in the United States. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/sports-headlines/ci_14045668?nclick_check=1">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />* I hate to say this but ... Tom Cable deserves to be the coach of the Raiders. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/sports/ci_14045516?nclick_check=1">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />* Monta Ellis does deserve to an All-Star but the Warriors are terrible so good luck next year. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/21/SPAD1B7QAF.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* At this point, doesn't it benefit everybody if Turiaf and Biedrins don't come back!? The Warriors need John Wall in the worst way and anything that reduces their odds of getting him is a bad thing. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/warriors/ci_14046051">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-56937638407984592682009-12-21T09:55:00.001-08:002009-12-21T12:32:32.425-08:00Checking the Wire 12/21/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Don't like Alex Smith? Too bad and get used to it. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/20/like-or-not-alex-smith-and-the-49ers-are-stuck-with-each-other/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Mer</a><a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/20/like-or-not-alex-smith-and-the-49ers-are-stuck-with-each-other/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">c</a>]<br /><br />Gwen Knapp asks why Singletary believes in Smith. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/21/SPLL1B76JQ.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />One thing I'll say about Smith. He's the same age as Brady Quinn, 25.<br /><br />Post Game Wrap from the JaMarcus Russell led comeback victory in Denver. I'm as shocked as you are. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/12/20/postgame-wrap-16/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Mark Purdy defends the honor of San Jose-ans(?). [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/mark-purdy/ci_14035395?source=rss">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />It's gonna get Crisp-y in Oakland. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/12/20/coco-crisps-signing-with-as-likely-to-happen/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-42234896117408528922009-12-18T11:29:00.000-08:002009-12-18T11:48:57.708-08:00Checking the Wire 12/18/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Understatement of the year? "Warriors coach Don Nelson calls Radmanovic a 'sub on a good team'" [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/18/SPOH1B5VQR.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Sure, it's only Randy Moss' fault and not Tom Brady's fault. Both Merrill Hoge and Ron Jaworski watched the NE-Carolina game tape and didn't see Moss shutting it down. But, Gwen Knapp doesn't care what the tape says. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/17/SP8L1B5CTJ.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Okay, you cover the NFL and not NCAA, I get it. But, you can't call Sam Bradford Mark Bradford. Seriously? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?blogid=45&entry_id=53720">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Every day, I like Ahmad Brooks more and more. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2009/12/17/ahmad-brooks-boosts-49ers-pass-rush-says-its-time-to-let-the-dog-loose/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Seriously, Darren McFadden? WTF? Where's the speed? Where's the breakaway? [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/12/17/mcfadden-strictly-a-singles-hitter/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />At least Alex Smith isn't JaMarcus Russell. how weird is that? Here's what Russell cost the Raiders. [<a href="http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Russells-enormous-cost-to-the-Raiders.html">NFP</a>] By the way, the way people talk about Jake Locker sounds JMR warning bells in my ears.<br /></div>Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-9287084061109110802009-12-17T09:24:00.000-08:002009-12-17T09:26:12.966-08:00RT Checks the Wire 12/15/09Sorry for the delay on Tues Wire Check and not having one yesterday, but I seperated my shoulder, so there.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Baseball</span><br /> <br />* The Mayor of Oakland wants a water front park which he thinks will revitalize the city. In other news, rich people root for the Giants so there is no way it can be privately financed and the city of Oakland is broke. Good luck with that. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/15/BAHE1B430U.DTL&tsp=1">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* It is time for the Giants to sign Holiday. He will cost a fortune but the 2010 Giants season will just as pointless as the Warriors 2009-2010 season without the addition of a big time hitter. [<a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/12/14/heyman.bay.holliday/index.html?eref=sihp">SI</a>]<br /><br />* Garko will not be back with the Giants. Who else is excited that the Giants traded a bunch of prospects for Freddie Sanchez instead of Victor Martinez!? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/12/12/giants-cut-ties-with-garko-remain-aggressive-looking-for-first-baseman/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Football</span><br /><br />* The Niners are officially the Vikings without Brett Favre! How exciting! [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/14/SPTT1B485Q.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* Nothing like ripping the defense when the quarterback can't throw the football more than 25 yards. Great reporting! [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/15/49ers-playoff-defense-shows-up-a-lot-of-turnovers-a-little-too-late/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />* Keep losing Warriors ... we need John Wall. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/sports/ci_13998018?nclick_check=1">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />* How pointless is the Warriors season? Someone at the Chronicle thought this story was newsworthy. My journalism 101 teacher would have failed me if I turned this in. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/14/SPTT1B486J.DTL">SF Gate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-60313898458397258542009-12-14T09:29:00.000-08:002009-12-14T09:53:09.580-08:00Checking the Wire 12/14/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />The Radiers win streak ends, at one. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2009/12/14/SPSB1B3O1G.DTL">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />With Gradkowski injuring both knees, will Davis turn the ship back over to JaMarcus? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/13/raiders-lose-gradkowski-hurt-tomorrow-could-tell-a-lot-about-russells-raiders-future/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />So, Toby Gerhart wins the award for best running back in college football, but finishes second in Hesiman voting to...a running back? WTF? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/13/SPV41B3HDI.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />49ers Q&A for Matt Maiocco from his readers. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/questioning-future-of-the-49ers.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />Kevin Lynch ranks Scot McCloughan's first round picks. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?blogid=45&entry_id=53414">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Bruce Jenkins' NBA thoughts. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/13/SP4N1B2KST.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Warriors Fast Break thinks the Warriors could beat the Sixers and salvage something on this road trip. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/warriors/2009/12/14/the-end-of-the-road/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Jack Cust will not be an A next year. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/12/12/as-non-tender-jack-cust-he-becomes-free-agent/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />Ryan Garko will not be a Giant next year. That trade worked, eh? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/12/12/giants-cut-ties-with-garko-remain-aggressive-looking-for-first-baseman/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ExtraBaggs+%28Extra+Baggs%29">SJ Merc</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-58908178253339941012009-12-11T09:19:00.000-08:002009-12-11T09:33:41.249-08:00Checking the Wire 12/11/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Remember when all the good bowls were on New Year's day? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/11/SP4N1B2BOM.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>] The hypocrisy of the NCAA is that they claim a playoff would cause players to miss more class, but the bowls now extend further into January than ever.<br /><br />One last case for Toby Gerhart for Hesiman. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/mark-purdy/ci_13971957?source=rss">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />The Cardinals are ready for the 49ers. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/surging-cardinals-wont-let-guard-down-against-gore.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />Ron Jaworski is noticing Alex Smith's mechanics. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2009/12/10/jaworski-sees-improved-mechanics-for-49ers-quarterback-alex-smith/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />The positive about DHB being hurt? No drop off in production. Thank you. Thank you. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/12/10/dhb-ellis-dont-practice/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />JaMarcus Russell, in his own words, still ridiculous. <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=53301">[SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Johns Shea takes the Giants temperature after the winter meetings. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/11/SP8I1B2FSM.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />The A's finally got tired with Santiago Casilla not reaching his potential. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/12/10/as-release-santiago-casilla-select-reliever-bobby-cassevah-in-rule-5-draft/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />The Giants' offseason: Fans, please lower your expectations. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=53302">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />MTII had a live chat with Stephen Curry yesterday. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/12/10/live-chat-with-stephen-curry-today-at-130-p-m/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HoopJunkie+%28Inside+the+Warriors%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-9968803898903957672009-12-09T09:29:00.000-08:002009-12-09T09:41:57.995-08:00Checking the Wire 12/9/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Bruce Jenkins recycles his defense of McGwire for the Hall of Fame. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/threedotblog/detail?blogid=60&entry_id=53149">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />The rest of Jenkins' 2010 HOF ballot. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/09/SPRO1B122N.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Bobby Crosby is headed to Pittsburgh. Meh. Also, look for the A's to kick the tires on Matsui and Vlad. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/12/09/bobby-crosby-looks-pittsburgh-bound-thoughts-on-as-and-hideki-matsui-vladimir-guerrero/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />The Giants are going to stay young and stay away from Johnny Damon and Jermaine Dye. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/12/08/sabean-rules-out-johnny-damon-or-re-signing-bengie-molina-laments-pudge-rodriguezs-two-year-deal-with-washington/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ExtraBaggs+%28Extra+Baggs%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Bochy discusses the top of the Giants' lineup. Ugh. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=53135">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Barry Bonds' son got arrested. [SJ Merc]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Maiocco's 53-man review from the 49ers-Seahawks game. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/a-look-at-all-53-from-49ers-loss-in-seattle.html">Press-Democrat</a>]<br /><br />The Niners dropped the ball, literally. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?blogid=45&entry_id=53108">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Gradkowski wins AFC Offensive Player of the Week award. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/12/08/gradkowski-afc-offensive-player-of-week/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-16108656099545598562009-12-07T09:23:00.001-08:002009-12-07T10:35:41.419-08:00Checking the Wire 12/7/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />The 49ers were run crazy in the first half of the season and opponents adjusted and now, it seems, the 49ers are pass crazy. It didn't lead to a win yesterday, but at least we can better evaluate Alex Smith. The Seattle loss was on the coaches. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/360/story/2375390.html?storylink=omni_popular">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers are what they are. Mediocre. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/360/story/2375390.html?storylink=omni_popular">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers botched that game. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/49ers-botch-their-big-chances-in-loss-to-seattle.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />The Raiders go into Pittsburgh and upset the Steelers? With Bruce Gradkowski throwing three 4th quarter touchdowns? Whaaaaaaaaa? [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/cam-inman/ci_13942193?source=rss">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />The Giants and A's have different approaches to this offseason than a year ago. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/06/SPGJ1AVJ6Q.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Joe Stiglich will update us on the A's front at the baseball winter meetings. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/12/07/whats-in-store-for-as-as-winter-meetings-open/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />Same with Andrew Baggarley for the Giants. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/12/07/flag-drops-on-the-winter-meetings/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ExtraBaggs+%28Extra+Baggs%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Brain Sabean is the new Senior GM in the league and start the speculation about Adrian Gonzalez. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=53013">SFGate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-6828112911218303042009-12-04T09:13:00.000-08:002009-12-04T09:37:02.170-08:00Checking the Wire 12/4/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Could the Raiders cut JaMarcus Russell? [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/raiders/ci_13923383?nclick_check=1">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers offensive line will be tested in Seattle. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/o-line-faces-tests-against-seahawks-and-their-fans.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />The Raiders juggle some defensive starters. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=52859">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Don Nelson's back, Warriors lose. Anybody surprised? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/12/03/houston-111-warriors-109-yeah-maybe-going-ultra-small-wasnt-such-a-good-idea/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Raja Bell had surgery and is out 3 months. He "could" be back in time for the Warriors to trade him, or so they hope. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/12/03/raja-out-3-months-at-least/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HoopJunkie+%28Inside+the+Warriors%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />What free agent mistake will the Giants make this year? McCoveyChronicles ranks the contenders. [<a href="http://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2009/12/3/1184558/future-free-agent-mistake-power#storyjump">MCC</a>]<br /><br />The A's made a deal to get Aaron Miles. Yay? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/04/SPN91AUNL4.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-73999447518059061622009-12-03T09:20:00.001-08:002009-12-03T09:21:15.371-08:00RT Checks the Wire 12/3/09<span style="font-weight:bold;">Football</span><br /><br />* If Gore likes it, I like it. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/02/SP981AU1FS.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* Breaking news: the Raiders still suck. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/sports/ci_13913400">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />* Wait a second, Vernon Davis is now a play maker? Is it opposite day? [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/sports-headlines/ci_13914575?nclick_check=1">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />* Great college football game tonight. [<a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/pac10/post/_/id/5818/civil-war-big-stakes-for-programs-that-have-little-in-common">ESPN</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />* What do two CY Youngs get you? An ESPN commercial. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/01/SPGO1ATHS4.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* What do you do when your pitching staff is dominant and you can't hit? Get rid of your leading RBI guy who happens to be play catcher. Makes sense to me ... it is opposite day. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?&entry_id=52711">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* I added the A's article because I thought someone from Portland might want to read about their future baseball team. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/athletics/ci_13901325?nclick_check=1">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-15638849105699852822009-12-02T09:15:00.000-08:002009-12-02T09:34:10.782-08:00Checking the Wire 12/2/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Even though Monta Ellis has reached "IT" status, the team is still dysfunctional. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/02/SPGO1ATI85.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Ice Randolph is out 1-2 weeks. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/12/01/anthony-randolph-will-be-out-7-14-days/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HoopJunkie+%28Inside+the+Warriors%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />More Ellis gushing. See if you can spot the blasphemy in the blog post title. Think musical. With all this Ellis love flowing, maybe RT will write something for us? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/warriors/2009/12/01/monta-ellis-superstar-warriors-126-pacers-107/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />The Giants don't offer Bengie Molina arbitration. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=52711">SFGate</a>] Meh.<br /><br />Baggarly combs through the arbitration-less free agents and identifies some possible Giants targets. Dye, Damon, Hudson, Tejada? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/12/01/sifting-through-the-post-arbitration-rubble-damon-dye-tejada-hudson-wouldnt-cost-the-giants-a-draft-pick/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ExtraBaggs+%28Extra+Baggs%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Maiocco's 53 man review of the 49ers-Jaguars game. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/12/tracking-all-53-from-49ers-win-over-jaguars.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers are bringing in Dwight Clark to help make "The Catch" on the business end. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2009/12/01/49ers-hire-dwight-clark-as-business-consultant-willis-leads-pro-bowl-voting/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29">SJ Merc</a>] Please, no complaints about terrible puns stretched terribly thin.<br /><br />Raiders fans buy a billboard to try and sway Al Davis' cold black heart.*[<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/raiders/archives/027516.html?mi_rss=Raiders%20Blog%20and%20Q%26A">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">*Al Davis' heart color and temperature are speculated. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hockey</span><br /><br />The Sharks continue to kick so much ass they don't bother taking names. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/12/01/sports/s220454S58.DTL">SFGate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-68938728207162905782009-12-01T09:02:00.001-08:002009-12-01T09:03:31.629-08:00RT Checks the Wire 12/1/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />* Is Roger Craig a Hall of Famer? Not really. [<a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=4841">Pro Football Reference</a>]<br /><br />* I love how the Niners have one good offensive weekend and people are talking about who gets the credit. How about the people who should get fired for running such a terrible offense for the first 11 weeks of the season!? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/30/SPD61ASL92.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hockey</span><br /><br />* The first person to tell you the Heatley trade was a no-brainer was ... ME! Nice try Mark Purdy. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/sports/ci_13897887?nclick_check=1">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />* Monta - Stephen Jackson = All-Star / IT player. Remember when you were talking to that guy that said trading Jackson was a bad idea? How dumb does that guy look!? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/30/SPD61ASL9B.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* NBA Rookie rankings. [<a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/arash_markazi/11/25/rookie.rankings/index.html">CNNSI</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-77142298704073853562009-11-30T10:02:00.000-08:002009-11-30T11:03:42.117-08:00Checking the Wire 11/30/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />The offense is in a state of flux, but the 49ers will make the playoffs on the play of the defense. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2009/11/30/SP9O1AS7IJ.DTL">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Mike Singletary's actions point to him being less stubborn than we think. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/29/SPLD1ART6Q.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Mark Purdy flip flops on Alex Smith and apologizes. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/mark-purdy/ci_13891729?source=rss">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Singletary was impressed by the leadership from his offensive players. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/11/singletary-impressed-by-49ers-leadership-on-offense.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />You know how the Warriors need a true point guard? Well, apparently there's a ton in the NBA today. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/29/SPO61AR5J7.DTL&feed=rss.bjenkins">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />The bottom 10 plays from the Raiders Thanksgiving loss to the Cowboys. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=52446">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Pay the man. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/27/SPO61AR4BO.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />The A's are showing interest in a Cuban defector, just not the good one. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/11/25/2176/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-13757787581141354872009-11-24T09:23:00.000-08:002009-11-24T09:42:11.445-08:00Checking the Wire 11/24/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Singletary is starting to feel the sting of losing and things not going according to plan. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/11/24/singletary-on-offensive-changes-alex-smith-and-49ers-future-stay-the-course/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Bill Belichick and Bill Walsh have three Super Bowl rings a piece, but Belichick's coaching tree isn't growing like Walsh's did. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/24/SP5A1APANL.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers need continuity on offense. <a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/11/49ers-need-continuity-on-offense.html">[Press Democrat</a>] It's interesting that Mike Johnson (QB Coach) spent his year away from football getting his college degree AND studying the spread offense. Hmm. Jimmy Raye's longest run as an OC was three seasons. Hmmm. Also, Allen Rossum was cut by the Cowboys because he couldn't stay healthy, the same reason the 49ers cut him earlier this season.<br /><br />The 49ers dropped the tampering charges against the Jets. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/2009/11/niners-drop-tam.html?mi_rss=49ers%20Blog%20and%20Q%26A">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><br />Tom Cable punted on 4th and 1 and then thouhgt about going for two instead of the tie. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/11/23/cable-thought-about-going-for-two/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Don Nelson won't make the Texas road trip with the Warriors as he battles pneumonia. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/24/SP5A1APAMF.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Pneumonia is a hell of an excuse to get away. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/cam-inman/ci_13854590?source=rss">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />Nelson is sick as a dog and CJ Watson is recovering from swine flu. No wonder Jackson wanted to leave so bad. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/11/24/nellie-sick-as-a-dog/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HoopJunkie+%28Inside+the+Warriors%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-82631217802675172892009-11-23T09:12:00.000-08:002009-11-23T09:51:17.246-08:00Checking the Wire 11/23/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Is it time for the Niners to tailor the offense to Smith's strengths? [SFGate] It already feels like it's a game too late. But, it might not matter. Alex Smith is not the future of the 49ers. Colt McCoy anyone?<br /><br />Mark Purdy seconds the notion that Alex Smith isn't the answer. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/mark-purdy/ci_13848145?source=rss">SJ Merc</a>] Here is the key quote from Alex Smith that highlights the notion: <span id="mn_Global"><span id="mn_Article">"I think we came out, for whatever reason, apprehensive, cautious and kind of waiting for somebody to make a play."</span></span> When you are the #1 overall pick, YOU aren't suposed to be apprehensive. YOU are supposed to make plays. I've been a staunch Smith supporter since he was drafted, making various excuses for his play. But, it's over, Smith is not the answer.<br /><br />Gradkowski brings a much needed energy to the Raiders. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/23/SPS41AORBD.DTL&feed=rss.sostler">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />With the playoffs now pretty much a pipe dream, Maiocco outlines the 49ers remaining goals. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/11/no-1-goal-for-49ers-in-final-six-games.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />The 49ers' coaches put a bad gameplan together despite hacing extra time to prepare. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/360/story/2341840.html?storylink=omni_popular">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><br />Jerry Mac's Raiders post game wrap. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/11/22/postgame-wrap-12/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />Top 10 plays from yesterday's Raiders win. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=52201">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />The A's signed Dallas McPherson. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/athletics/2009/11/22/as-agree-to-terms-with-third-baseman-dallas-mcpherson/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cctextra%2FEhhe+%28Chin+Music%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br />Some Giants notes, including the notion of moving Freddie Sanchez to third if they acquired Dan Uggla. Not good. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=52128">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Basketball<br /><br />The glass is half full at the Fast Break Warriors blog. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/warriors/2009/11/23/the-new-warriors-younger-faster-bigger/">SJ Merc</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-62999975475288867932009-11-20T09:45:00.000-08:002009-11-20T10:09:53.693-08:00Checking the Wire 11/20/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Lincecum wins the Cy Young and talks about getting busted. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/11/20/lincecum-makes-a-statement-with-words-deeds-and-natural-cool/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Rob Neyer takes a closer look at NL Cy Young balloting. [<a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/1497/digging-into-cy-balloting">ESPN</a>]<br /><br />The Giants are unlikely to go adter Matt Holliday or Jason Bay. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=52018">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Niners need to limit the YAC on Sunday. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2009/11/19/49ers-biggest-defensive-concern-preventing-green-bay-yards-after-catch/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Becuase you were dying to know, Q&A with Bruce Gradkowski. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2009/11/19/bruce-gradkowski-qa/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+iba_raiders+%28Inside+The+Oakland+Raiders%29">CC Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-1715803732698736872009-11-19T11:07:00.000-08:002009-11-19T11:08:20.888-08:00RT Checks the Wire 11/19/09<span style="font-weight:bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />* The Warriors are playing with a lot more heart now that Jackson is gone. To bad they have played the Cavs and Celtics on the road. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/18/SPAG1AN139.DTL">SF Gate</a>]<br /><br />* Where will Monta end up? How about the Warriors!? [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/11/18/where-might-monta-ellis-end-up-let-me-take-a-few-wild-guesses-philly-miami-memphis/">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />* The Chronicle proves once again that they don't know anything about sports. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/18/SPVT1AM41R.DTL">SF Gate</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-77219146961416007192009-11-18T09:12:00.000-08:002009-11-18T09:29:39.930-08:00Checking the Wire 11/18/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Warriors lose to the Cavaliers. RT, did they cover? Also, an update of the "Big Meeting" tomorrow between management and Monta Ellis. LeBron James was giving Stephen Curry advice after the game. LBJ a GSW next year? I kid. I kid. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/11/18/game-10-3-7-cavaliers-114-warriors-108/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HoopJunkie+%28Inside+the+Warriors%29">CC Times</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />Andrew Bailey won the Rookie of the Year, now the A's need to find one that swings a bat. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/18/SPER1AM2FI.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Lincecum has to go to court before the judge signs off on his pot ticket. Can't blame the judge for wanting an autograph, right? [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/detail?blogid=22&entry_id=51850">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Matt Wilhelm stepped up nicely when he came in for a hurting Takeo Spikes who may still be out Sunday. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/2009/11/wilhelm-willis.html?mi_rss=49ers%20Blog%20and%20Q%26A">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><br />No starting QB has been announced for the Raiders, but there's other stuff to talk about, too. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=51768">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Chris Johnson and his quest for 2,000 yards rushing. [<a href="http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/11/17/chris-johnson-and-the-race-to-2000/">NY Times</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-55349507628341029302009-11-16T14:22:00.000-08:002009-11-16T14:23:53.329-08:00Stephen Jackson is not a Warrior.<span style="font-style: italic;">by RT</span><br /><br /><br />The day of reckoning has finally come and the Warriors get a B+ for how they handled the Stephen Jackson situation. As I have written in the past, the Warriors should have told Jackson he was not welcome at practice or at games and told him that he would not be traded. Simply put – “you can come out of your room when you are ready to play nice.” Of course, the only team to actually go through with such a threat was the Denver Broncos this last summer with Brandon Marshall. Amazingly enough, Marshall is headed for the Pro Bowl as a Bronco and not a Charger or Cowboy. Of course, there was no guarantee this strategy would have worked with Jackson.<br />When Al Harrington got traded this time last year, the event was permanently etched in the head of Jackson and his agent. While Captain Jack gave the Warriors everything they wanted and more, the team continued to lose and he had to start thinking – “I am stuck with this team that will not be a winner for at least another two years.” The reality is that most NBA players want to win unless they are living in New York, LA or Miami. The New York Knicks have been terrible over the past 7 season and the only player that has requested a trade was Starbury, who is at least 30 cards short of a full deck. So while Al Harrington is eating steak at Angelo and Maxie’s with super models, Jackson is stuck in Oakland going nowhere fast. For the Warriors, the Al Harrington trade was a disaster because he got exactly what he wanted while the Warriors got nothing in return. The Warriors were not about to let a player get exactly what he wanted again.<br /><br />Over the past couple of weeks, the Warriors must have narrowed their trade partners down to all the terrible teams in the league and the teams that do not play in the above-mentioned cities. This list of teams was short to say the least. As any good trader knows, the best trade is often the one you didn’t make. With that thinking in mind, the GM of the Bucks, T-wolves, Pacers, Jazz, Grizzles and Kings need to be given a lot of credit for not getting involved in the Stephen Jackson trade talks. However, the Bobcats, a train wreck of a franchise in their own right, could not stay away.<br /><br />In a lot of respects, this trade was a huge in for the Warriors.<br /><br />* They get a significant amount (~$21 mm) in savings over the next 3 years.<br /><br />* Monta Ellis now has to take the team seriously when they tell him – “If you don’t want to stay, your options are Utah, Sacramento or Minnesota.”<br /><br />* The Warriors have not righted the ship, not even close, but the die-hard fans now know that the Warriors realize how poorly they handled the Harrington trade last year.<br /><br />The only real negative in all of this is that the Cavs were likely offering two expiring contracts for Jackson which would have been nice trade chips later this winter. However, most fans don’t understand the mutiny which would have occurred if Jackson would have ended up in Cleveland. Think about it – one guy gets to play in the best city in the world and the other guy gets to play with the best player in world. If I was a janitor at Oracle, I would have asked for a trade to the Staples Center because there was no reason to believe I wouldn’t get it.<br /><br />Finally, I think I speak for most Warriors fans when I say that Stephen Jackson still has some good basketball in him. He is a very unique player that can not only guard the best players in the world but he can also score from about anywhere on the court. However, his best Warriors days were behind him. He needed to be a mentor to the younger players on an off the court. He needed to play the point forward that looked to create mismatches on the offensive end. He needed to teach this team how winning in the NBA is about sacrificing for the good of the team. The bottom line is that the Warriors needed him and he didn’t want them. It was time for him to go.<br /><br />And yes, there is such a thing as addition by subtraction.Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-33268795314662939882009-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:002009-11-16T09:44:14.820-08:00Checking the Wire 11/16/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Basketball</span><br /><br />Big news of the day: The Warriors traded Stephen Jackson and Acie Law to the Bobcats for Raja Bell and Vladamir Radmonovic. [<a href="http://www.ibabuzz.com/warriors/2009/11/16/jax-gone-to-charlotte/">CC Times</a>] RT, will have something a little more in-depth later today, but the Warriors definitely are "winners" in this trade. The team could be worse without Jackson from a talent standpoint, but the Warriors weren't going to the playoffs. Sorry Dubs fans. Acie Law and Raja Bell are on expiring deals. Radmonovic has a $6.9M option for next season, while Jackson has $28M over the NEXT three years, not counting 2009. We'll wait and see if RT thinks there is any more wheeling and dealing left.<br /><br />Kawkami chimes in, from vacation. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/11/16/warriors-do-something-right-trade-jackson-to-charlotte-for-21m-in-future-cap-relief/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29&utm_content=Twitter">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />The Raiders' failures are directly related to their last three 1st round picks: Russell, McFadden and Heyward-Bey. [<a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/cam-inman/ci_13796938?source=rss">CC Times</a>] I'll even expand on the last 10 Raiders' first round picks: Michael Huff, Fabian Washington, Robert Gallery, Nnamdi Asomugha, Philip Buchanon, Derek Gibson, Seabstian Janikowski. One great player, Asomugha, and the rest is garbage.<br /><br />Gwen Knapp summarizes the Alex Smith experiment. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/15/SPM01AKIHG.DTL&feed=rss.gknapp">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />JaMarcus Russell, still bad. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/16/SPSL1AKTL1.DTL&feed=rss.sostler">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Stanford is the Bay Area feel good football story. [<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/mark-purdy/ci_13792377?source=rss">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />Matt Maiocco presents the 49ers road to a Wild Card slot. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/11/wild-card-spot-within-reach-with-7-games-left.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />How an uncapped 2010 affects the 49ers roster. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/2009/11/upcapped-year-w.html?mi_rss=49ers%20Blog%20and%20Q%26A">Sac Bee</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4833385021120088177.post-83104249211546757832009-11-13T06:51:00.000-08:002009-11-13T10:02:47.669-08:00Checking the Wire 11/13/09<span style="font-weight: bold;">Football</span><br /><br />Kawakami sums it up best: "Josh McDaniels saved the 49ers season…by trading Jay Cutler to the Bears last off-season." [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/11/13/49ers-stumble-and-bumble-but-thanks-to-cutler-live-for-another-relevant-day/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kawakami-merc+%28Talking+Points+with+Tim+Kawakami%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />It's about a 50/50 chance Frank Gore will become the 49ers all-time leading rusher. Raise your hand if you knew who the current all time rushing leader was? You're lying. [<a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=4592">ProFootballReference</a>]<br /><br />Matt Wilhelm made some big plays filling in for Take Spikes. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/13/SPNT1AJQEH.DTL&feed=rss.sostler">SFGate</a>]<br /><br />Post game quotes from both locker rooms. [<a href="http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/11/only-the-appropriate-post-game-quotes.html">Press Democrat</a>]<br /><br />You know it's bad when Mark Roman gets an INT on you. He hadn't had one since 2006! [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2009/11/12/49ers-intercept-five-passes-in-10-6-victory-over-bears/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29">SJ Merc</a>]<br /><br />The loss was not entirely Cutler's fault. [<a href="http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Diner-morning-news-Its-not-all-Cutlers-fault.html">NFP</a>]<br /><br />You want to watch the Raiders on Sunday? Well, you better buy a ticket. [<a href="http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/raiders/archives/027035.html?mi_rss=Raiders%20Blog%20and%20Q%26A">Sac Bee</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baseball</span><br /><br />John Shea tries to forecast the bad contracts that will be offered this off season. [<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/13/SP4A1AJG3C.DTL&feed=rss.jshea">SFGate</a>]<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hockey</span><br /><br />Sharks blow a two goal lead and then lose in shoot out. Whatever, wake me when it's the playoffs. [<a href="http://blogs.mercurynews.com/sharks/2009/11/13/mclellan-more-philosophical-than-disappointed-as-two-goal-lead-evaporates-and-sharks-lose-shootout/">SJ Merc</a>]Koskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13623510725368315156noreply@blogger.com0