Monday, November 28, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
TAG Radio Podcast 9-13-11
Check out today's show recapping Week 1 in the NFL and the Razorbacks second victory of the season.
TAG RADIO 9-13-11 by TAG_Radio
TAG RADIO 9-13-11 by TAG_Radio
Saturday, September 10, 2011
TAG Radio Logo
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Inaugural Broadcast
TAG Radio's inaugural broadcast on Tuesday August 23rd, 2011 on KXUA 88.3
TAGRADIO -8-23-11 by TAG_Radio
TAGRADIO -8-23-11 by TAG_Radio
Monday, August 22, 2011
TAG Radio Debut
Tomorrow will be the highly anticipated debut of TAG Radio on KXUA, 88.3 FM in Fayetteville, AR !! Please tune in at 6:00pm to 88.3 FM if you are in NW Arkansas, or at this link http://tunein.com/tuner/?StationId=26583& to listen over the internet. If you have any trouble with that, you can also go to the station's website http://kxua.uark.edu/ and click "listen live" in the top right corner. Thanks for everyone's support up to this point and continued success!
TAG Radio Team
Taylor, Grant, Roman
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Man With the Midas Touch
When you think of superstar GM's in sports today, a few names may come to mind:
The Steinbrenner family
Jerry Jones
Danny Ainge
Ted Thompson
Mickey Loomis
...Jon Daniels??
Yes, the now 34 year old Daniels, the Texas Rangers GM (who, at 28, was the youngest GM in MLB history when he was given the position in '05), is on fire right now. In the last 3 years, Daniels and the Rangers have become some of the biggest players in trades, free agent signings, and international scouting throughout all of baseball. Not only do they have one of the best ball clubs in baseball, but also one of the best developmental and farm systems to match.
One of the most difficult jobs for a GM to do is to get a club the talent to win a championship. It takes years and years, and many moves to try and find the right talent to mesh to be competitive. But that's only the half of it. Not only do they have to have the talent to GET THERE, but once there, they have to STAY THERE. Making the moves to try and keep that window open as long as possible is what separates good GM's from great ones. And Jon Daniels has become one of the best in the business at that.
When Daniels inherited the team in '05, his plan has been simple: build from within. With a complete tear down and shakeup of the organization, the Rangers put themselves in "rebuild" mode. It takes patience, from both the organization and the fans. But building talent from within by stockpiling key prospects to move, as well as develop them to compete with the big club, it allows for the Rangers to be so flexible with the things they do in the off season, as well as the trade deadline. Look at the current roster. Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz. All brought here in trades for marquee veterans (Elvis and Neftali both in the Teixeira trade). And most of the other players on the roster were developed in house (Moreland, Chavez, Gentry, Kinsler). So, instead of taking the "Yankee" approach to things in the off-season and throw copious amounts of money at players to try and coax them, Daniels and his team get creative, move their stockpiled prospects that they have at their disposal, and make moves that not only help the team currently, but do not jeopardize their future (Cliff Lee trade and this past weekends Uehara and Adams trade come to mind). It is an art, and it is truly fascinating.
Jon Daniels has the Midas Touch, plain and simple. Any move he has his hands on turns to gold. He not only has pulled the Rangers out of the doldrums of the MLB, but led them to a World Series, and made sure they will have the talent to get back. For many years to come. And the scariest part about it? He just seems to get better. Each year, the moves get better and better. They make more and more sense. They become easier and easier. And this success makes it much easier to bring in outside talent via free agency (Adrian Beltre comes to mind). In the end, no GM is hotter in the last 3-4 years than Jon Daniels, the mastermind, the puppeteer behind the scenes that has silently made the Rangers into a powerhouse organization for many, many years to come. Give this man a pat on the back when you see him.
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
The Steinbrenner family
Jerry Jones
Danny Ainge
Ted Thompson
Mickey Loomis
...Jon Daniels??
Yes, the now 34 year old Daniels, the Texas Rangers GM (who, at 28, was the youngest GM in MLB history when he was given the position in '05), is on fire right now. In the last 3 years, Daniels and the Rangers have become some of the biggest players in trades, free agent signings, and international scouting throughout all of baseball. Not only do they have one of the best ball clubs in baseball, but also one of the best developmental and farm systems to match.
One of the most difficult jobs for a GM to do is to get a club the talent to win a championship. It takes years and years, and many moves to try and find the right talent to mesh to be competitive. But that's only the half of it. Not only do they have to have the talent to GET THERE, but once there, they have to STAY THERE. Making the moves to try and keep that window open as long as possible is what separates good GM's from great ones. And Jon Daniels has become one of the best in the business at that.
When Daniels inherited the team in '05, his plan has been simple: build from within. With a complete tear down and shakeup of the organization, the Rangers put themselves in "rebuild" mode. It takes patience, from both the organization and the fans. But building talent from within by stockpiling key prospects to move, as well as develop them to compete with the big club, it allows for the Rangers to be so flexible with the things they do in the off season, as well as the trade deadline. Look at the current roster. Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz. All brought here in trades for marquee veterans (Elvis and Neftali both in the Teixeira trade). And most of the other players on the roster were developed in house (Moreland, Chavez, Gentry, Kinsler). So, instead of taking the "Yankee" approach to things in the off-season and throw copious amounts of money at players to try and coax them, Daniels and his team get creative, move their stockpiled prospects that they have at their disposal, and make moves that not only help the team currently, but do not jeopardize their future (Cliff Lee trade and this past weekends Uehara and Adams trade come to mind). It is an art, and it is truly fascinating.
Jon Daniels has the Midas Touch, plain and simple. Any move he has his hands on turns to gold. He not only has pulled the Rangers out of the doldrums of the MLB, but led them to a World Series, and made sure they will have the talent to get back. For many years to come. And the scariest part about it? He just seems to get better. Each year, the moves get better and better. They make more and more sense. They become easier and easier. And this success makes it much easier to bring in outside talent via free agency (Adrian Beltre comes to mind). In the end, no GM is hotter in the last 3-4 years than Jon Daniels, the mastermind, the puppeteer behind the scenes that has silently made the Rangers into a powerhouse organization for many, many years to come. Give this man a pat on the back when you see him.
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Cows Next Move?
(First off, apologies for the recent absence. Grant, Roman, and myself have all been extremely busy getting prepared for this upcoming fall, where we will actually be hosting our very own radio show. But do not fret, we will continue to keep you updated and educated with everything going on in the sports world.)
With the free agent frenzy (unlike anything we have seen in NFL history) among us, it is probably a good time to dissect the moves that the Cowboys have made so far, and try and predict where the club should go from here.
Moves already made:
The Cows made a statement yesterday, cutting their loses on long-time veteran players (Marion Barber, Leonard Davis, Roy Williams), players who received lucrative contracts in the past, and simply were not performing at the level necessary for that amount of pay. Jerry Jones and the rest of the Cows staff admitting they were wrong and cut their ties on dead-weight that was no longer going to cut it. Great moves so far, moves that had to and needed to be made. Hats off to Jerry for realizing his mistakes and making a proactive move for the future.
The Cowboys have locked in their biggest question this off season, Doug Free, into a miraculous contract that is phenomenal on both sides. Free signed a 4 year, $32 million deal, with about half of that guaranteed. This is great for both the Cowboys, we didn't have to spend top dollar on a starting left tackle (which other teams are paying in the 6 year, $70 mill range), especially one who only has 1 year full time starting experience. He is only 27, so when his contract is up, he will be in his prime (for tackles), and could look to land a huge contract if his play keeps up. Cowboys got a steal here.
One last thing...do not take the signing of Oklahoma State kicker Dan Bailey (Lou Groza winner for "Best kicker in College" last year) for granted. This is a great move that puts the pressure on the inconsistent David Buehler, creating competition at an extremely important (though always overlooked) position.
Moves that need to be made:
With the free agent frenzy (unlike anything we have seen in NFL history) among us, it is probably a good time to dissect the moves that the Cowboys have made so far, and try and predict where the club should go from here.
Moves already made:
The Cows made a statement yesterday, cutting their loses on long-time veteran players (Marion Barber, Leonard Davis, Roy Williams), players who received lucrative contracts in the past, and simply were not performing at the level necessary for that amount of pay. Jerry Jones and the rest of the Cows staff admitting they were wrong and cut their ties on dead-weight that was no longer going to cut it. Great moves so far, moves that had to and needed to be made. Hats off to Jerry for realizing his mistakes and making a proactive move for the future.
The Cowboys have locked in their biggest question this off season, Doug Free, into a miraculous contract that is phenomenal on both sides. Free signed a 4 year, $32 million deal, with about half of that guaranteed. This is great for both the Cowboys, we didn't have to spend top dollar on a starting left tackle (which other teams are paying in the 6 year, $70 mill range), especially one who only has 1 year full time starting experience. He is only 27, so when his contract is up, he will be in his prime (for tackles), and could look to land a huge contract if his play keeps up. Cowboys got a steal here.
One last thing...do not take the signing of Oklahoma State kicker Dan Bailey (Lou Groza winner for "Best kicker in College" last year) for granted. This is a great move that puts the pressure on the inconsistent David Buehler, creating competition at an extremely important (though always overlooked) position.
Moves that need to be made:
More and more cuts are going to be made, but outside of that, the 'Boys have a few moves that still absolutely have to be made.
Let's first look at the O-line. With Free now under contract, the Cows need to look at left guard Kyle Kosier and lock him up for a few more years, and solidify the left side of the line for a few more years. Kosier is not a superstar, but is more than capable of holding his own (when healthy), and works extremely well center Andre Gurode. Look for the Boys to finalize him in the next few days (as contract talks have already begun). Montrae Holland seems to have inherited the starting right guard spot, with rookie Tyron Smith anchoring the right tackle spot. It also appears that Notre Dame product Sam Young will take over as the swing tackle, with Marc Columbo most likely leaving town. This line, although not the best in the division, is more than capable of protecting Romo (barring injury).
Staying on the offensive side, one position that is worth noting is receiver. Coming into the season, it seemed like this position was sown up. Miles, Dez, and Roy Williams as your #1-3 receivers, with Kevin Ogletree, Dwayne Harris (rookie), and Sam Hurd rounding out the depth chart. We seemed to be set here. But with the departure of Williams, this leaves a gaping hole, with no real replacement on the roster in site. What happens if Dez or Miles get hurt? Who is going to step up? I know this would be icing on the cake (since the secondary and D-line are priorities), but it is definitely something the front office should look into.
Let's first look at the O-line. With Free now under contract, the Cows need to look at left guard Kyle Kosier and lock him up for a few more years, and solidify the left side of the line for a few more years. Kosier is not a superstar, but is more than capable of holding his own (when healthy), and works extremely well center Andre Gurode. Look for the Boys to finalize him in the next few days (as contract talks have already begun). Montrae Holland seems to have inherited the starting right guard spot, with rookie Tyron Smith anchoring the right tackle spot. It also appears that Notre Dame product Sam Young will take over as the swing tackle, with Marc Columbo most likely leaving town. This line, although not the best in the division, is more than capable of protecting Romo (barring injury).
Staying on the offensive side, one position that is worth noting is receiver. Coming into the season, it seemed like this position was sown up. Miles, Dez, and Roy Williams as your #1-3 receivers, with Kevin Ogletree, Dwayne Harris (rookie), and Sam Hurd rounding out the depth chart. We seemed to be set here. But with the departure of Williams, this leaves a gaping hole, with no real replacement on the roster in site. What happens if Dez or Miles get hurt? Who is going to step up? I know this would be icing on the cake (since the secondary and D-line are priorities), but it is definitely something the front office should look into.
Switching sides, much still needs to be done on the defense. The secondary needs a makeover, preferably at the safety position. There are plenty of free agent safeties out there, but the real question is who to choose from? There doesn't seem to be 1 safety that stands out above the rest, but there are guys that are going to cost more than others due to their pedigree. I love love for the Boys to make a run at Eric Weddle from San Diego, and try and convince Sensabaugh to come back (even though he wants a raise). This would be a huge upgrade on the backend. And while fans are ranting and raving about the possibility of signing Raiders corner Nnamdi Asomugha, probably the #1 free agent on the market this year, and one of the dominant corners in the league, I would shy away from this move. Yes, Nnamdi is one of the premier corners in the NFL, and would definitely help out your program right away. But he is 30 years old, and would request HUGE money (18-20 mill a year range), and for a corner-back already at 30, that is pushing it. Even if we were to sign Nnamdi, we would still have a hole at BOTH safety positions, which would cripple the team. I believe Jenkins and Newman can get it done for another year, and safety help is the most important factor on the D right now.
Last, but certainly not least, the Cowboys must make moves on the D-line, at the defensive end position. Bowen, Spears, and Hatcher are all free agents, and the Boys need to try and bring back at least one, if not two (preferably Bowen and Spears). They are also looking outside the organization at names such as Cullen Jenkins from Green Bay. No matter what, this position must be patched up, either by someone in house or a solid, inexpensive player outside of the organization.
This is an exciting week for NFL fans, with a whirlwind of transactions and signings taking place at an unheard of rate. Now, it is time to sit back and see if the Cows take care of business and address the needs noted above. Only time will tell now.
Last, but certainly not least, the Cowboys must make moves on the D-line, at the defensive end position. Bowen, Spears, and Hatcher are all free agents, and the Boys need to try and bring back at least one, if not two (preferably Bowen and Spears). They are also looking outside the organization at names such as Cullen Jenkins from Green Bay. No matter what, this position must be patched up, either by someone in house or a solid, inexpensive player outside of the organization.
This is an exciting week for NFL fans, with a whirlwind of transactions and signings taking place at an unheard of rate. Now, it is time to sit back and see if the Cows take care of business and address the needs noted above. Only time will tell now.
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
TAG Radio Founding Father
Friday, July 15, 2011
Hyped Up
Let's play a quick game (and no, we're not playing tag). Use the following stats to name the NFL player:
This player has played in 19 out of 68 possible games in his 4 year career. He has a career completion percentage (ok, he's a QB) of 60.8% and averages just 109.6 yards per game. This QB has thrown 11 touchdowns compared to 14 interceptions and has a measly quarterback rating of 73.2%.
This player does not have bad numbers because he plays on a bad team (his team has made the playoffs 3 out of his 4 years in the league), plays in a bad system (his system is known as one of the most potent offensive schemes in the league), has bad coaches (he actually has one of the best offensive-minded head coaches), or lacks offensive weapons around him (he is surrounded by 4 pro bowl caliber skilled position players).
Can you guess him? If you guess the most coveted QB this offseason, Kevin Kolb, then you guessed right.
Let's move onto round two of our little guessing game. Guess this coach:
This coach has a career regular season record of 95-81, a playoff record of 5-4 including 1 Super Bowl, and has been out of the profession for several years now. This coach has been linked with every coaching opening around the country from NFL teams all the way to some D-2 NCAA teams. Who is this guy?
If you guessed any of the Hall of Fame-worthy coaches who currently fit several of the above descriptions such as Bill Cower or Dick Vermeil you would be wrong. If you guessed 47 year old Jon Gruden, you're right.
Why did we play this game? To caution you of the media hype surrounding these guys.
According to the media, Kevin Kolb is the number one QB on the market this offseason and teams are lined up around the block to try to pry this guy from the Eagles for a first or second round draft pick. I'm by no stretch of the imagination a professional scout and I am sure as heck not a numbers guy (…Tommy Guns). What I am is a guy who watches the games and shapes my opinions around what I see and what I saw from Kevin Kolb and what his numbers only prove is that he is not yet worthy of all this hype surrounding him.
Moving to the Jon Gruden exhibit we see a coach who has mediocre career stats but because Jon is all over ESPN including his QB Camp (which is awesome by the way) and Monday Night Football, the media suddenly makes this guy out to be Vince Lombardi or Tom Landry. If Jon Gruden stays out of coaching he just might be elected into the Hall of Fame by inflated hype alone.
Let's pump the brakes. I'm not saying I don't love the way Jon Gruden interacts with players and his work ethic but can we please remember that Tampa fired him because after their Super Bowl victory in 2002, Gruden coached the Bucs to a 45-52 record over the succeeding 6 years?
All of this is to say -- be careful about listening to everything the media tells you (but of course, always listen to what TAG Radio tells you). Use your sports-sense to test the news you hear. Dig into some of the facts for yourself to see if the stories pass the sports lipase test.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Tragedy at the Ballpark
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this today. As I'm sure all of you know by now, a fan fell to his death yesterday at the Ballpark in Arlington, trying to catch a foul ball thrown into the stands by Ranger's left fielder Josh Hamilton.
Shannon Stone, a 39 year old firefighter from Brownwood, TX, lost his balance and flipped over the railing in the top of the 2nd inning, and apparently falling headfirst about 14 feet below. His son and many other fans watched on and gasped as they watched him tumbling down.
Words cannot describe the sadness that his family, friends, co-workers, and the Ranger's organization are feeling at this moment. I admit I was even shook up over this, lying in bed last night, trying to put all the pieces together. It was a restless night.
I was actually attending the game Wednesday night (one night prior to this event), sitting directly underneath the area where exactly one year ago a fan fell from the 2nd deck and luckily survived. It is an extremely frightening scene, watching fans lay out for foul balls, like it is precious gold, only to receive an ovation from the crowd for a spectacular catch, almost like they are the ones playing in the game. One fan was even hit directly in the head behind home plate, and medical personnel had to rush over and examine him. Luckily, the fan walked out under his own power. In the heat of the moment, the last thing you think about is your safety. Fans are so excited to try and catch that foul ball that, for a split second, they are extremely vulnerable, and in a sense, oblivious to their surroundings. It is a natural reaction. It is human nature. And the risk for injury only increases when alcohol is involved.
All these thoughts were running through my head as I tried to sleep. I have been there, I have been that fan to reach out and try and grab that ball, screaming at the players to just toss one up, give me a memory that I wont forget at the ballpark. So I thought. And I thought. And I thought. For about an hour I just sat and thought about what could be done at the ballpark to try and prevent these types of things from happening. The conclusion I came to, at about 2:30 in the morning was as follows:
Nothing.
There really isn't much that can be done to prevent things like this from happening. All the proper height specifications and safety precautions were taken at the Ballpark in Arlington. They were even above and beyond the OSHA recommendations. In life, it seems that things like this happen, no matter how uneasy they seem. Accidents happen, and no matter what regulations or provisions are put into place, things are still going to happen. Each and everyone of us assumes the risk of accidents happening to us by simply walking outside in the morning. It is the world we live in. But what we can't do is live in fear. We cannot be afraid to enjoy such a great moment, like a father and son going to a baseball game together. Because those are memories that people never forget. I know that some of the greater moments I have spent with my father are at the ballpark. And no one else should be denied that feeling, that moment, due to fear. We cannot live in fear, simply because of tragic, tragic accidents like this that occur.
If there is one positive (for lack of a better word) thing that can be taken away from this, it is a reality check. Just a way to put into perspective that this is just a game. It isn't life and death. It should remind people that things can happen, and for everyone to always be on their toes. Do not be paranoid, just be aware of your surroundings. Be careful, and most importantly, be smart.
May God bless the family of Shannon Stone, and may everyone's prayers reach out to them in this tragic time...
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Field of Dreams 2: Lockout
Found this hilarious Field of Dreams spoof about the NFL Lockout from the guys at Funny or Die. It is a must see. Click the link to check it out.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
The NFL Takes A Page Out of Coke's Playbook?
Since the time of its inception in 1886, Coca-Cola had always been America's favorite soft drink. However, a relatively new competitor, Pepsi, had emerged causing Coke's market share (60% after World War II) to fall to only 24% by 1983. Young Americans were being TAGed as the Pepsi Generation and national taste tests often favored Pepsi.
What happened next shook the Cola World. Coca-Cola replaced their leading cola formula with a new formula, simply called New Coke. This decision caused faithful Coke connoisseurs to disown their loyalty and question Coke's motives. After the public distain and backlash for New Coke had ballooned to epic proportions, Coca-Cola re-introduced their original Coke formula which we know today as Classic Coca-Cola.
The aftermath of this three month experiment with New Coke which resulted in Coke returning to its original formula worked surprisingly well in Coke's favor. Coke's overall sales increased to twice those of Pepsi's and people became even more in love and addicted to the soft drink.
Because of the tremendous success Coke experienced, many people believe the New Coke blunder was a calculated risk taken by Coke's management. The conspiracy theory says that Coke's management took away Coke for a brief moment in order to remind people just how much they love Coke. Once they had achieved their goal, Coke gambled on the fact that people would flock back to the original drink with more love and loyalty than ever before.
Is it possible that the NFL is trying to reproduce the same results as Coke realized with the current lockout?
Just like Coke, the NFL has been as successful as ever. And just like Coke, the NFL has been presented with a fierce competitor, rising expenses. It’s a far stretch but could the NFL be temporarily taking away the game we have come so accustom to watching every year in order to draw an even larger crowd, and revenue, this coming fall?
One sure way of knowing if this could be a conspiracy is if they settle the lockout soon, before they would lose money, because if the goal of this gamble is to make money and grow a fan base then they wouldn't risk missing games by extending the lockout much longer.
People often refer to the NFL as a copycat league so could anybody blame them for taking a play out of the most successful company in the world's (in terms of brand equity) playbook? All I know is the cards are on the table and we're quickly approaching the time when the NFL needs to show their hand.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
NFL's Top Players
Recently there has been a wide flux of popular sports media outlets creating polls ranking the top NFL players. These articles are being written because there has been no true football offseason activities to keep fans interested in (and no Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen, we are not interested in hearing your negative thoughts about the NFL Lockout for the 105th straight day), however the reasoning for the rankings aren't important, the results are.
ESPN has had a weekly Power Ranking of players at various positions for a long time now and have recently released their final Top 10 NFL Players regardless of position. Below is ESPN's rankings of the Top 10 NFL Players (to see this article in full visit http://espn.go.com/blog/nfceast/post/_/id/27930/power-rankings-top-10-nfl-players).
NFL Network also has their own version of "power rankings" which they dub The Top 100 NFL Players of 2011 (to view players #100-11 visit http://top100.nfl.com/) which concludes this Sunday at 7 PM revealing the top 10 players of 2011. The show is actually really interesting because their list of the top 100 players was formed exclusively from the voting of active NFL players as opposed to other lists, including ESPN's, which is formulated based on opinions of NFL writers.
With all of this ranking hysteria, it is only fitting to have TAG Radio rank the top players in the NFL. So with no further ado, I present to you my top 5 NFL players.
Grant's Top 5 NFL Players:
1.Tom Brady, Patriots
Little explanation is needed here, 36 touchdowns, only 4 interceptions, and a league leading 111.0% quarterback rating in the regular season all with an underwhelming cast of characters for weapons.
2.Troy Polamalu, Steelers
#2 is higher than most would rank this guy but I believe he deserves it. He changes the entire game plan of an offense in a way unlike any other defender in the league right now. If you want to avoid Darrelle Revis then you can simply throw away from the one receiver he is locked on. If you want to avoid being sacked by DeMarcus Ware you can roll your quarterback out the other way or call a quick pass before the rush becomes a factor. But how do you avoid a guy like Polamalu who lines up as a deep safety on one side of the field only to be making a play behind the line of scrimmage on the other side at the snap of the ball? The guy has an endless motor, incredible instinct, and he is so much fun to watch. What's most impressive is the impact a defensive player such as Polamalu can make on determining whether his team wins or loses on Sundays. Since Polamalu has come to the Steelers seven years ago they have finished as a top 3 defense (based on points allowed) five times, reached three Super Bowls, and have reclaimed the title as the most feared defense in the league. Here are some stats to back up Troy's importance to the Steel Curtain:
Steelers defense with and without Polamalu since 2009:
Win-Loss: With = 17-5; Without = 6-7
Points Per Game Allowed: With = 15.9; Without = 21.5
Interceptions: With = 28; Without = 6
To quote Elliot Harrison of nfl.com, "There is no greater compliment you can give a player than to say that his play is the difference between winning and losing."
3.Peyton Manning, Colts
It is nice when a down year for this guy includes 33 touchdowns and a 91.9% quarterback rating. No other quarterback, or player for that matter, is given the type of control of a team like Peyton Manning. He is his own offensive coordinator and because so much importance is put on Peyton, the team would undoubtedly crumble without him on the field.
4.Aaron Rodgers, Packers
He had a great regular season (28 touchdowns and a 101.2% quarterback rating) but it was his outstanding postseason play which got him this high on the list (9 touchdowns, only 2 interceptions, and a 109.8% quarterback rating). What makes Rodgers so special is his knack for making big plays with his feet. He's not a Michael Vick-type runner who will get you 50+ yards rushing every game but he chooses his spots so well like 49er's great Steve Young used to do to pick up key yardage. Oh, and there's that championship thing he just won.
• Power Rankings: Running Backs
• Power Rankings: Pass-Rushers
• Power Rankings: Tight Ends
• Power Rankings: Head Coaches
• Power Rankings: Linebackers
• Power Rankings: Cornerbacks
• Power Rankings: Quarterbacks
• Power Rankings: Safeties
• Power Rankings: Owners
• Power Rankings: Helmets
• Power Rankings: Defensive players
• Power Rankings: Offensive players
• Power Rankings: Toughest Venues
• Power Rankings: Rising Assistants
ESPN has had a weekly Power Ranking of players at various positions for a long time now and have recently released their final Top 10 NFL Players regardless of position. Below is ESPN's rankings of the Top 10 NFL Players (to see this article in full visit http://espn.go.com/blog/nfceast/post/_/id/27930/power-rankings-top-10-nfl-players).
1. Tom Brady, New England Patriots
2. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts
3. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints
4. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
5. Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
7. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
9. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers
10. Michael Vick, Philadelphia Eagles
10. Andre Johnson, Houston Texans
2. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts
3. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints
4. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
5. Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
7. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
9. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers
10. Michael Vick, Philadelphia Eagles
10. Andre Johnson, Houston Texans
NFL Network also has their own version of "power rankings" which they dub The Top 100 NFL Players of 2011 (to view players #100-11 visit http://top100.nfl.com/) which concludes this Sunday at 7 PM revealing the top 10 players of 2011. The show is actually really interesting because their list of the top 100 players was formed exclusively from the voting of active NFL players as opposed to other lists, including ESPN's, which is formulated based on opinions of NFL writers.
With all of this ranking hysteria, it is only fitting to have TAG Radio rank the top players in the NFL. So with no further ado, I present to you my top 5 NFL players.
Grant's Top 5 NFL Players:
1.Tom Brady, Patriots
Little explanation is needed here, 36 touchdowns, only 4 interceptions, and a league leading 111.0% quarterback rating in the regular season all with an underwhelming cast of characters for weapons.
2.Troy Polamalu, Steelers
#2 is higher than most would rank this guy but I believe he deserves it. He changes the entire game plan of an offense in a way unlike any other defender in the league right now. If you want to avoid Darrelle Revis then you can simply throw away from the one receiver he is locked on. If you want to avoid being sacked by DeMarcus Ware you can roll your quarterback out the other way or call a quick pass before the rush becomes a factor. But how do you avoid a guy like Polamalu who lines up as a deep safety on one side of the field only to be making a play behind the line of scrimmage on the other side at the snap of the ball? The guy has an endless motor, incredible instinct, and he is so much fun to watch. What's most impressive is the impact a defensive player such as Polamalu can make on determining whether his team wins or loses on Sundays. Since Polamalu has come to the Steelers seven years ago they have finished as a top 3 defense (based on points allowed) five times, reached three Super Bowls, and have reclaimed the title as the most feared defense in the league. Here are some stats to back up Troy's importance to the Steel Curtain:
Steelers defense with and without Polamalu since 2009:
Win-Loss: With = 17-5; Without = 6-7
Points Per Game Allowed: With = 15.9; Without = 21.5
Interceptions: With = 28; Without = 6
To quote Elliot Harrison of nfl.com, "There is no greater compliment you can give a player than to say that his play is the difference between winning and losing."
3.Peyton Manning, Colts
It is nice when a down year for this guy includes 33 touchdowns and a 91.9% quarterback rating. No other quarterback, or player for that matter, is given the type of control of a team like Peyton Manning. He is his own offensive coordinator and because so much importance is put on Peyton, the team would undoubtedly crumble without him on the field.
4.Aaron Rodgers, Packers
He had a great regular season (28 touchdowns and a 101.2% quarterback rating) but it was his outstanding postseason play which got him this high on the list (9 touchdowns, only 2 interceptions, and a 109.8% quarterback rating). What makes Rodgers so special is his knack for making big plays with his feet. He's not a Michael Vick-type runner who will get you 50+ yards rushing every game but he chooses his spots so well like 49er's great Steve Young used to do to pick up key yardage. Oh, and there's that championship thing he just won.
5. Drew Brees
Like the other members of my Top 5, without Brees under center the Saints would be a subpar team. His stats were decent for his standards this past season (33 touchdowns but an uncharacteristically high 22 interceptions) but its Brees' intangibles which make him so important to the Who Dat Nation. Despite his size (6'0"), Brees is larger than life in New Orleans. He is such a great leader and he, along with head coach Sean Payton, have transformed the Saints from the perianal loser "Anits" into Super Bowl champions.
You can also view ESPN's Power Rankings by position by clicking on the following links:
• Power Rankings: Wide Receivers• Power Rankings: Running Backs
• Power Rankings: Pass-Rushers
• Power Rankings: Tight Ends
• Power Rankings: Head Coaches
• Power Rankings: Linebackers
• Power Rankings: Cornerbacks
• Power Rankings: Quarterbacks
• Power Rankings: Safeties
• Power Rankings: Owners
• Power Rankings: Helmets
• Power Rankings: Defensive players
• Power Rankings: Offensive players
• Power Rankings: Toughest Venues
• Power Rankings: Rising Assistants
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sports Heaven
This picture embodies almost everything that I love about Dallas sports. Give him a Cowboys jersey to wear and the triumvirate is complete. Cowboys, Mavs, and Rangers....ahhhhh life is good.
The Battle for The Silver Boot
With last night's 7-3 win over the Astro's, our Rangers got one step closer to taking home of the most coveted pieces of hardware in all of sports: The Silver Boot, which is given to the outright winner of The Lonestar Series, played between the Ranger's and the Houston Astro's every year.
Legend has it that they store the boot 2 miles deep underneath the Alamo for safe keeping.
The Ranger's are one win away from capturing this hallowed trophy. CJ Wilson put together a great performance, lasting seven strong innings, battling out of trouble twice in masterful fashion. He also recorded his first career triple, popping up to throw the claw with the incorporating antlers to his hysterical teammates. A shower of boo's immediately followed. Either way, the Ranger's played much better last night, doing what they had to do to insure the win.
Hopefully last night's performance for Josh Hamilton will put the "Blue Eye's Drama" behind him. Finishing with 2 hits, 1 being a solo homer in the third, Josh also flashed a little leather in the 7th, laying out on a dead-sprint to snatch a potential double away from Clint Barmes. It is good to see Josh respond this way after his much needed off day on Sunday. Hopefully this trend will carry over to the afternoon games.
Ian Kinsler also played a great, finishing with 2 hits, 2 walks, and 3 RBI's. If Kins can start to heat up that bat and continue to get on base, good things will follow with the powerful and dangerous lineup behind him.
Also, Elvis Andrus missed another game with a left wrist injury, and most likely won't return to the field until Friday at the earliest. He played catch with Ron Wash before the game, but said he doesn't want to return until there is zero pain. He did say he would be able to pinch-hit or pinch-run if necessary. On this same note, Andres Blanco showed why he has a spot on this roster, and why the Old School Brother trusts in him to play short in Elvis's absence. He was all over the place, showing extreme range and a strong arm, as well as a rare double.
UPDATE: Alexi Ogando will make his next scheduled start, which is supposed to be this Friday, the opener to a 3 game stint with the Florida Marlins. This start was in question for him, and the Ranger's braintrust were thinking about shuffling him around a bit, getting some extra rest after 3 terrible starts in a row. But it is confirmed that he will be starting on Friday. After that is anyone's guess.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Cowboys Defensive Back Needs
Recently, one of the most often asked questions at TAG Radio is, "What should the Cowboys do about the gaping hole in their defensive backfield?" ESPN Dallas writer Calvin Watkins addressed this question in his article http://espn.go.com/blog/dallas/cowboys/post/_/id/4680248/free-agent-outlook-michael-huff.
In the article, Watkins' gushes over the free agent Free Safety Michael Huff who has reportedly practiced with many of the Cowboys' players during this offseason and is often seen in public wearing Cowboys' gear. Huff to the Cowboys is an easy connection to make, Mr. Watkins, but Huff is not the best option for the Cowboys.
While Michael Huff was a great ball player at the University of Texas, his skills have yet to transfer to the NFL. Sure, he reclaimed his starting role two years ago after being benched and he even had a pretty good season, but the reason he was benched in the first place was because he did not fit into the then Radiers' Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan's defense. Time can heal all wounds and players mature but after researching the free agent market, here is a look at two lesser known players the Cowboys might look at this summer (CBA Pending):
1. Eric Weddle - Weddle may be one of the most underrated safeties in the NFL today. Extremely versatile, this kid can do anything Rob Ryan's crazy mind can think of. To make a point about his versatility, in college Weddle played all four defensive secondary positions, running back, wildcat quarterback, and played on all six special team units (including punter on special occasions). After a game in which Weddle played a total of 90 plays in a winning effort versus Air Force, Fisher DeBerry, Air Force's head coach, was quoted saying, "They're cheating you, son; they ought to give you two scholarships."
He was second on the Chargers last season in tackles (96 opposed to Huff's 84) and was often asked to play Free Safety, Corner, and Nickel all in the same week's game plan. This type of versatility is exactly what is needed for Rob Ryan's defense.
2. Abe Elam - After digging deep into the possibilities for the Cowboys at Free Safety we find Abe Elam. If familiarity breeds success, than Elam could be very successful with the Cowboys. Elam has experience playing for Rob Ryan in Cleveland the past two seasons and was one of Rob Ryan's key defenders. Elam is intelligent and can "quarterback" the defensive secondary and after seeing the Cowboys' defensive backs arguing in the end zone trying to figure whose fault the touchdown was on a countless number of times in recent years, a smart leader sounds great right about now.
Oh, and as for the other free agent Raiders' defensive back, Nnamdi Asomugha, reports are that he "loves" playing for Rob Ryan and sees Ryan as almost a father figure. Of course it all comes down to money, so how much is Daddy willing to pay?
Fantasy Fumble
"Do this research if we don't have a season — watch how much evil, which we call crime. Watch how much crime picks up, if you take away our game," Ray Lewis told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio during the looming labor lockout this offseason.
While no previous statistical correlations support Ray Ray’s claims, and no criminal has ever plead insane due to lack of pro football to watch, may I offer you a hint of wisdom as to what Ray Lewis is getting at.
Every NFL offseason for the past two decades American pro football fans come together in bliss as the anticipation of the start of the season pumps adrenaline into the veins of millions. During the sizzling ides of July as students enjoy the last days of freedom before school begins, and the boys of fall commence preparations for another football season, over 18 million Americans come together at bars and living rooms alike, as well as in online draft rooms to pick their teams for a season of Fantasy Football.
Whether your stakes are monetary returns or for pride alone, you are living through the players of the NFL.
Fantasy Football is an $800 million dollar industry and is continually growing with casual football fans across various demographics. It’s hard to imagine an American autumn without an NFL season. For me, it’s even harder for me to imagine an autumn without the ever time consuming management of a fantasy football team. Countless working and studying hours are wasted each fall as working Americans and students alike pick up their leagues’ free agents, tweak their starting line up and talk trash to the opponents in their league. I am absolutely one of these Americans.
Ray Lewis may be reaching for the notion of an increase in criminal activity if there is no NFL season this year, but he is right about one thing. We do live through these players, general managers, and teams that make up America’s game. The threat of a full-season lockout and an autumn without fantasy football seem to just be another sign of the time this country’s economy is going through.
Although I don’t know what I will do without a season of fantasy football obsession and trips to Buffalo Wild Wings on Sunday afternoons, I know my criminal activity will not increase or decrease.
I can’t speak for the rest of America, or TAG radio that is.
-Rome
TAG Radio Intern
"The Green Ranger"
While no previous statistical correlations support Ray Ray’s claims, and no criminal has ever plead insane due to lack of pro football to watch, may I offer you a hint of wisdom as to what Ray Lewis is getting at.
Every NFL offseason for the past two decades American pro football fans come together in bliss as the anticipation of the start of the season pumps adrenaline into the veins of millions. During the sizzling ides of July as students enjoy the last days of freedom before school begins, and the boys of fall commence preparations for another football season, over 18 million Americans come together at bars and living rooms alike, as well as in online draft rooms to pick their teams for a season of Fantasy Football.
Whether your stakes are monetary returns or for pride alone, you are living through the players of the NFL.
Fantasy Football is an $800 million dollar industry and is continually growing with casual football fans across various demographics. It’s hard to imagine an American autumn without an NFL season. For me, it’s even harder for me to imagine an autumn without the ever time consuming management of a fantasy football team. Countless working and studying hours are wasted each fall as working Americans and students alike pick up their leagues’ free agents, tweak their starting line up and talk trash to the opponents in their league. I am absolutely one of these Americans.
Ray Lewis may be reaching for the notion of an increase in criminal activity if there is no NFL season this year, but he is right about one thing. We do live through these players, general managers, and teams that make up America’s game. The threat of a full-season lockout and an autumn without fantasy football seem to just be another sign of the time this country’s economy is going through.
Although I don’t know what I will do without a season of fantasy football obsession and trips to Buffalo Wild Wings on Sunday afternoons, I know my criminal activity will not increase or decrease.
I can’t speak for the rest of America, or TAG radio that is.
-Rome
TAG Radio Intern
"The Green Ranger"
Monday, June 27, 2011
T.O's Tear
Reports have been flying in since late last night that Terrell Owens, or more commonly known as T.O., has apparently tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while filming a show on VHI. Reports are also coming in that he injured it during a personal workout. The true story has yet to come out, but he has already had the surgery at some point this month, performed by Dr. James Andrews. He is looking for a return in mid/late November.
This is obviously a huge blow to Owens, who is 37 right now and clearly looking towards the end of his career. Can his body respond to something like this? An injury of this caliber usual spells the end of normal players careers, but T.O. is far from an average player. He currently ranks 2nd all time, behind only Jerry Rice in receiving yardage, and 3rd all time in touchdown receptions, behind Rice and Randy Moss. He is most definitely a sure-fire hall of famer.
T.O. is known around the league for his hard-work and fitness, and the way he keeps his body in shape is unparalleled in the league, definitely for his age. So it is difficult to rule out a possible return. What do you think? Will T.O. make it back this year? Or is this the end?
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Saturday, June 25, 2011
More Mavs Draft Thoughts
Before reading post this post please take the time to enjoy Taylor's Draft Review below.
I also really liked the move the Mavs made in last night's NBA draft for the following reasons:
1. Does anyone else remember the hype this kid had coming into the league after the 2008 Summer Olympics? If you don't, you may want to watch this youtube clip as a reminder of what NBA fans believed they were getting when 22 year old Rudy Fernandez dunks over Superman Dwight Howard:
2. Rudy Fernandez is a proven commodity and as any sports fan knows, even the best college or foreign prospect can turn into a bust (see Gregg Oden, Michael Beasley, Sam Bowie, Darko Milcic...). As Taylor eluded to in his piece below, Rudy Fernandez was one heck of a player his rookie year. Unfortunately for Rudy, the Trail Blazers chose to modify Rudy's role after his highly-praised rookie year from the slasher he proved to be so good at to a spot up perimeter player similar to the role Peja has thrived in which has in turn reduced the effectiveness of Rudy's athleticism. The Mavs have plenty of spot up shooters which will allow Coach Rick Carlisle to unleash the reigns of the young gun and let him penetrate and collapse the defense for his great shooting teammates such as Dirk and Jet to name a few.
3. According to Donnie Nelson, foreign players take at least three years to find their "NBA feet". The first year to grasp the different style of play the NBA is built on opposed to the high flying Euro game. Donnie compares their second year to an American players' rookie year where the players learn to play a faster, more disciplined game. And in their third year, the Euros are finally ready to put two and two together and begin to fit into their team roles. Rudy is going into his fourth year, so according to Donnie Nelson's philosophy, Fernandez should be ready to bloom.
4. Finally, the Fernandez acquisition gives the Mavs great flexibility in their backcourt before the uncertainty of this summer's free agency and prepares them for the pending NBA lockout which seems inevitable. First, this move gives the Mavs flexibility in the case they are not able to sign one, or either, of their backcourt free agents Junkyard Stevenson and JJ Barea because Rudy is a 6'6 guard who can play point guard (which he played for Spain's best professional and Olympic national team for five years), shooting guard, or small forward when the team wants to play small. Secondly, the Rudy piece gives the Mavs a deep backcourt in the case the lockout delays the season causing more games to be played on back to back nights (or back to back to back nights which happened often in the strike-shortened 1999 NBA season). If this were to happen the Mavs would absolutely need all the depth they could get because as a veteran team their goal is not to win 72 games in the regular season but rather to gain favorable seeding and rest up their starters for the playoffs as we have seen the Spurs, Lakers, and Celtics do so often in the past decade so by having a deep backcourt the Mavs will be able to save Kidd and Jet's legs for another glorious championship run.
I also really liked the move the Mavs made in last night's NBA draft for the following reasons:
1. Does anyone else remember the hype this kid had coming into the league after the 2008 Summer Olympics? If you don't, you may want to watch this youtube clip as a reminder of what NBA fans believed they were getting when 22 year old Rudy Fernandez dunks over Superman Dwight Howard:
2. Rudy Fernandez is a proven commodity and as any sports fan knows, even the best college or foreign prospect can turn into a bust (see Gregg Oden, Michael Beasley, Sam Bowie, Darko Milcic...). As Taylor eluded to in his piece below, Rudy Fernandez was one heck of a player his rookie year. Unfortunately for Rudy, the Trail Blazers chose to modify Rudy's role after his highly-praised rookie year from the slasher he proved to be so good at to a spot up perimeter player similar to the role Peja has thrived in which has in turn reduced the effectiveness of Rudy's athleticism. The Mavs have plenty of spot up shooters which will allow Coach Rick Carlisle to unleash the reigns of the young gun and let him penetrate and collapse the defense for his great shooting teammates such as Dirk and Jet to name a few.
3. According to Donnie Nelson, foreign players take at least three years to find their "NBA feet". The first year to grasp the different style of play the NBA is built on opposed to the high flying Euro game. Donnie compares their second year to an American players' rookie year where the players learn to play a faster, more disciplined game. And in their third year, the Euros are finally ready to put two and two together and begin to fit into their team roles. Rudy is going into his fourth year, so according to Donnie Nelson's philosophy, Fernandez should be ready to bloom.
4. Finally, the Fernandez acquisition gives the Mavs great flexibility in their backcourt before the uncertainty of this summer's free agency and prepares them for the pending NBA lockout which seems inevitable. First, this move gives the Mavs flexibility in the case they are not able to sign one, or either, of their backcourt free agents Junkyard Stevenson and JJ Barea because Rudy is a 6'6 guard who can play point guard (which he played for Spain's best professional and Olympic national team for five years), shooting guard, or small forward when the team wants to play small. Secondly, the Rudy piece gives the Mavs a deep backcourt in the case the lockout delays the season causing more games to be played on back to back nights (or back to back to back nights which happened often in the strike-shortened 1999 NBA season). If this were to happen the Mavs would absolutely need all the depth they could get because as a veteran team their goal is not to win 72 games in the regular season but rather to gain favorable seeding and rest up their starters for the playoffs as we have seen the Spurs, Lakers, and Celtics do so often in the past decade so by having a deep backcourt the Mavs will be able to save Kidd and Jet's legs for another glorious championship run.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Mav's Draft Review
After a wild night filled with surprise trades, a foreign frenzy (5 of the top 8 picks born outside of the US), and interesting choices, the 2011 NBA Draft is over. So naturally, us here at TAG Radio will do our best to breakdown what happened with the World Champion Dallas Mavericks tonight, and what it will mean for next season (if we have one).
What Happened: The Mav's, holding the 26th pick in the 1st round, drafted guard Jordan Hamilton out of the University of Texas. Immediately after, reports that a 3 team trade including the Portland Trailblazers and the Denver Nuggets was in the works, for a player to be named later. Moments after that, the mystery player arriving in Dallas was none other than Portland guard Rudy Fernandez (click link for info and stats), as well as Petteri Koponen (the last pick of the 1st round in the 2007 draft), for the Mavs 57th pick, who turned out to be Targuy Ngombo from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
What This Means: Clearly, the Mav's are in "win now" mode. Donnie Nelson and the rest of the Mav's brain-trust believed that at the 26 spot, there was no player available to contribute right away in the rotation, and instead chose to package the pick as well as their second rounder for a proven rotation player, or to quote Nelson,"A potential starter", and perhaps a future point guard down the road.
Rudy Fernandez, the 6'6 guard out of Spain, is a 3 year veteran playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. In his rookie year, he set NBA rookie records for 3 point field goals made in a season (159), as well as participating in the Slam Dunk Contest and being selected the the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. He is an athletic, lanky guard who can play defense as well as knock down outside shots, and create his own shot at the same time.
With the Mav's making this move, it looks like the end for Peja Stojakovic, and one of TAG Radio's favorite Mavs, Deshawn "Junkyard Dog" Stevenson. Fernandez is in the last year of his rookie contract (on the books to make around 2 million this year), around 2 million cheaper than Junkyard made this season. And after his performance in the playoffs this year, Junkyard would most likely be slated to make more than that in a new contract. This is also interesting because it shows that the Mav's front office is not particularly confident in young guard Rodrique Beaubois, and perhaps last years 1st round pick Dominique Jones (or even Corey Brewer). Perhaps they are simply creating competition between the young guns, hoping they will push each other and get better this off season and training camp (once again, if we even have one of those). Only time will tell.
My take on all this is that it is a positive move for the Mav's. There is no risk involved. They packaged 2 picks with unknown NBA ability, for a solid, proven, young NBA player and a prospect for the future. Can't be to upset with those results, and probably the proper move for a team trying to repeat as World Champions. No need to take a risk late in the first round for someone you don't see contributing right away. I like the move, and I trust Donnie Nelson and his decision making (he did bring us Dirk after all).
So at the end of all this, I guess it wouldn't be right not to throw in a prediction. I whole-heartily believe that we will re-sign Tyson Chandler, J.J. Barea, and Caron Butler. Tyson is a shoe in, J.J. wants to come back and understands his role, and Caron is a valuable asset to this team, both on and off the court. And we may be able to get him for a bargain after his injury. So going into the season, I see this as our starting lineup:
PG- Jason Kidd
PG- Jason Kidd
SG- Rudy Fernandez (after battling Roddy B, Dominique Jones, and Corey Brewer for this spot)
SF- Caron Butler
PF- I'll let you figure this one out, starts with D and ends in K (and no I'm not being dirty)
C- Tyson Chandler (next years Defensive MVP....maybe)
Jason Terry will resume his 6th man role off the bench, with J.J. spilling Kidd, and Shawn Marion will perform the role he had at the beginning of this season, coming off the bench and solidifying the best 2nd team in basketball. Corey Brewer will take over the role of Deshawn Stevenson in the last 3 games of the Finals: Defensive stopper to guard top players, as well as spell Matrix and Caron to try and keep their minutes low and not over work them. Haywood will do his thing splitting minutes with Tyson, and who knows, Brian Cardinal aka "The Custodian" may even crack the lineup a few times (somebody has to take charges and give hard fouls). The Mav's will find a way to see what they have in Roddy B and DJ (Dominique Jones), but aren't 100% ready to throw them into the fire, especially after last season. They will get their minutes though.
Long post I know, but a lot to talk about with all the moving and shaking going on. My mind is already racing, excited for the possibilities of next year. Can the season start already?
Comment and let us know what you think about the Mav's moves on draft night. Agree, disagree, indifferent, confused, whatever. Let us know what you think!
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Collective Bargining Agreement For Dummies
Breaking News - the National Football League is in a lockout!
Well, they've been in a lockout 99 days now but with the NBA playoffs stealing our attention for the majority of the past two and a half months it was easy to overlook the NFL's labor situation. But now that the dramatics of the NBA playoffs is over, all eyes intently go back to America's Obsession, the NFL.
So in case you have been living under a rock for the past four months or have been consumed with a magical Mavericks' championship run like many of us at TAG Radio, here is a summary of the issues in the 2011 NFL CBA negotiations.
Issue #1 = Money
Issue #2 = Money
Issue#3-Infinity = Money
Well, they've been in a lockout 99 days now but with the NBA playoffs stealing our attention for the majority of the past two and a half months it was easy to overlook the NFL's labor situation. But now that the dramatics of the NBA playoffs is over, all eyes intently go back to America's Obsession, the NFL.
So in case you have been living under a rock for the past four months or have been consumed with a magical Mavericks' championship run like many of us at TAG Radio, here is a summary of the issues in the 2011 NFL CBA negotiations.
Issue #1 = Money
Issue #2 = Money
Issue#3-Infinity = Money
That may be a bit of an over exaggeration, but it's not too far from the truth.
What the players, owners, and media will tell you is that the CBA negotiations are trying to solve league structure issues such as number of regular season games, rookie wage caps, free agency rules, and retirement benefits. While all of these problems are relevant in the CBA discussions, they all pale in comparison to the main issue at hand -- how to split the $9 billion profit the NFL makes every year.
As the title of this article suggests, this is not intended to be a fully inclusive CBA piece but rather a quick, easy guide to understanding the NFL CBA negotiations, so below you can find a summary of how the money was split in the previous CBA followed by what the new CBA negotiations are trying to achieve:
-Previous CBA - In 2006 the owners are players agreed in terms to a CBA which split the $9 billion profits between the players and owners 60%-40% in favor of the players. To accommodate for this 20% deficit in revenues, the players conceded to give the owners $1 billion of profit right off the top before the 60%-40% split ever occurred. This CBA worked well for the first season (2007) it was in place, however, once the American economy got roughed up in the Fall of 2008, the deal began to turn sour for the owners. Currently the owners face $200 million yearly expenses per team which are only believed to rise every year causing the owners to feel they need to receive a larger split of revenue in order to remain profitable.
- Current CBA Negotiations - These rising $200 million yearly expenses are why the NFL is having this lockout and why the CBA is going to have to change. The owners believe they need more money and the players don't want to give any of it up. Classic case of greed. And because of this greed, the lockout has gone on far longer than it should have but we are finally beginning to see some progress. At recent discussions it is believe the owners and players are close to agreeing to a CBA which will split the money 52%-48% this time in favor of the owners, with no $1 billion going straight to the owners.
At TAG Radio we know this is a trying time for football fans, but we want you to rest at ease. This lockout will end soon and we will have football - from training camps all the way through the super bowl. How do I know? Well, I just so happen to be working for the law firm who represents the NFL Player Association (NFLPA). Do I deal with the players or give my advice to the attorneys who do? Nope. But do I sharpen the pencils of the people who do deal with the players? Absolutely. And you can bet your sweet September there isn't a dull pencil in this entire place! Because of this, we at TAG Radio feel we are literally responsible for the outcome of this lockout and we personally guarantee that it will end soon enough.
The end is near, the mountain top is in sight. I can almost hear it now, "Are you ready for some football!..."
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mav's Season Highlight Videos
Check out these two Mav's Season Recap Videos, which were some of the best that I found.
But beware, they may make you sports cry....
Comment and let us know if there are any others out there that are worthy of such a memorable Mav's season!
Eating Crow
Choosing to browse the internet today rather than do any actual work, I came across this little gem, an article written in 2009 titled "Why the Dallas Mavericks Will Never Win a Title With Dirk Nowitzki".
Seriously?
I hope the author of this (Matthew Mooney?) is eating a lot of crow right now, because some of the stuff he writes on there is unbelievable.
Comedic actually. (I especially enjoy the part where he compares the former MVP and 10 time All-Star to Toni Kukoc?). How some of these guys have jobs and get paid to write garbage like this blows my mind. Oh, and the comments are good to.
Here is the link....
Enjoy!
P.S.= If your curious to hear Dirk's response to that garbage, he wanted me to pass on this message...
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
What To Do About Webb
It is becoming extremely clear that Brandon Webb is still not ready for the majors, and may not be anytime in the near future.
Webb, coming off his most recent rehab start in Double A Frisco, only lasted 2/3's of an inning, allowing 6 hits, 4 runs, and a walk before being yanked by the Rough Riders manager. He is still struggling with his velocity, bringing his fastball in consistently at 83-85 mph, which simply won't cut it in the Bigs. If he can work on hitting his spots, and bump his velocity up to a more respectable 87-88, he can use his phenomenal sinker, which was once viewed as "one of the best pitches in all of baseball" according to Sports Illustrated. But the clock is ticking.
He is attempting a comeback after undergoing shoulder surgery on his pitching arm on Aug. 3, 2009. Prior to this, Webb was the N.L Cy Young winner in 2006, and in 2009 he was named #31 on the Sporting News' list of the 50 greatest current players in baseball. So we know the guy has talent. At this point, it is all about recovering and tapping back into that immense talent that was seen in his tenure with Arizona.
So how much longer do the Ranger's wait? Going into the season, they never gave Webb a timetable, so there really isn't any pressure on him at the moment. Luckily for the Rangers, their young starting pitchers have done a stellar job so far this season, with the only pitching questions popping up in the bullpen. At this point, Webb needs to start showing drastic improvements if he is going to make the club, or even play in the majors again. With Tommy "Big Game" Hunter and Scott "Scooter" Feldman both coming of solid rehab starts, and looking to join the club within the few weeks, as well as the MLB only allowing 30 days for a player to be out on a rehab assingment, the clock is ticking for Brandon Webb. If Webb can get healthy, find his form, and brush up on his mechanics, he would be on his way to revamping a phenomenal career as well as helping the Rangers in the second half of the season, as well as the playoffs.
But if he can't, we may be close to seeing the end of Brandon Webb. Only time will tell.
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Post Postwin
Outside of Miami, everyone wanted the Mavs to win...or so I thought.
What wasn't there to enjoy about the Mavs? If there was an underdog to root for, it was these guys. They had a superstar who stayed where he was, because he believed in the city and his team, but lacked a ring. Veteran players sprinkled throughout the roster, all working together for that championship they lacked. A little guy not even 6-feet tall navigating the lanes like a bowling ball. They united. They stood for everything the Heat didn't.
And despite all this, as I watched most games in Houston, I sat at a BWW downtown and listened to many fans in Houston say, "I don't know what's worse, rooting for Miami and LeBron or rooting for Dallas." ... Really? Honestly, it amazed me. The majority of Texans at my school come from the Houston area, so I knew there was some resentment or jealousy toward their fellow Texas city.
But really? I don't understand it. I think Houston wants Dallas to feel the same way. But growing up in Dallas, I've never heard many people just trash Houston. They want nothing more than Dallas to fail. If it were the Rockets vs. the Heat, 95% of Dallas would be cheering on the Texas team. I guess I never realized how strange and bizarre and, I believe, unwarranted those feelings are until now.
-Rowan
What wasn't there to enjoy about the Mavs? If there was an underdog to root for, it was these guys. They had a superstar who stayed where he was, because he believed in the city and his team, but lacked a ring. Veteran players sprinkled throughout the roster, all working together for that championship they lacked. A little guy not even 6-feet tall navigating the lanes like a bowling ball. They united. They stood for everything the Heat didn't.
And despite all this, as I watched most games in Houston, I sat at a BWW downtown and listened to many fans in Houston say, "I don't know what's worse, rooting for Miami and LeBron or rooting for Dallas." ... Really? Honestly, it amazed me. The majority of Texans at my school come from the Houston area, so I knew there was some resentment or jealousy toward their fellow Texas city.
But really? I don't understand it. I think Houston wants Dallas to feel the same way. But growing up in Dallas, I've never heard many people just trash Houston. They want nothing more than Dallas to fail. If it were the Rockets vs. the Heat, 95% of Dallas would be cheering on the Texas team. I guess I never realized how strange and bizarre and, I believe, unwarranted those feelings are until now.
-Rowan
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
HIGHS & lows
BREAKING NEWS
Still coming off the sports high of the Mavericks championship I'm sad to report that Mavericks guard DeShawn "the Junkyard Dog" Stevenson was arrested the night of June 14 in Irving and charged with Public Intoxication. The incident occurred in an Irving apartment complex.
While I don't condone any criminal activity, I do have to apologize on his behalf. "Sorry for partying, Irving"
DeShawn played a major role in containing "King" James and D-Wade in the finals as well as other teams' stars throughout the entire playoff run.
Most Mavs fans have been begging for the team to "Thug-it-up" to some extent for years. However, this is often what happens when you have a tad bit crazy players like the Junkyard Dog 'yaying 3ees for your team.
He is still my new favorite Maverick, and hope this incident doesn't hurt his chances of being resigned this offseason by Cuban and the World Champion Dallas Mavericks.
For more on "Public Intoxication" see here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdz_-06wGqc
and again, I will quote Charles Barkley, "every great team has to have one crazy guy"
DeShawn 'the Junkyard Dog" Stevenson is the Maverick's crazy guy.
UPDATE: Its also been reported that Suge Knight has posted his bail at $475.
Still coming off the sports high of the Mavericks championship I'm sad to report that Mavericks guard DeShawn "the Junkyard Dog" Stevenson was arrested the night of June 14 in Irving and charged with Public Intoxication. The incident occurred in an Irving apartment complex.
While I don't condone any criminal activity, I do have to apologize on his behalf. "Sorry for partying, Irving"
DeShawn played a major role in containing "King" James and D-Wade in the finals as well as other teams' stars throughout the entire playoff run.
Most Mavs fans have been begging for the team to "Thug-it-up" to some extent for years. However, this is often what happens when you have a tad bit crazy players like the Junkyard Dog 'yaying 3ees for your team.
He is still my new favorite Maverick, and hope this incident doesn't hurt his chances of being resigned this offseason by Cuban and the World Champion Dallas Mavericks.
For more on "Public Intoxication" see here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdz_-06wGqc
and again, I will quote Charles Barkley, "every great team has to have one crazy guy"
DeShawn 'the Junkyard Dog" Stevenson is the Maverick's crazy guy.
UPDATE: Its also been reported that Suge Knight has posted his bail at $475.
Championships: Earned, Not Deserved
Charles Barkley, Karl Malone/John Stockton, Dan Marino, Ted Williams. What do all these amazing athletes, at the tops of their respected sports, all have in common?
No Championship. No Title.
Highly considered some of the best players ever to play their games, they have never reached the highest pinnacle, the top of the mountain.
Somewhere along the way, sports fans across the country have made a grave, grave mistake. One that still bugs me to this day, and seems to never go away. Why do people believe, simply because players have great talent, that they "deserve" a championship? No! Championships aren't deserved because of individual talent. They are earned, earned by hard work when no one is looking. Putting in the extra hours, day in and day out, and playing with a chip on your shoulder. You don't just show up into any professional sports league, anywhere in the world, and deserve something. People aren't going to give you anything. It must be taken. It must be earned.
For example, let's look at the Mav's NBA Championship, the first in franchise history, and the first championship for every player on the current roster. A roster filled with veterans such as Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Jason Terry, Shawn Marion, and Peja Stojakovic, great professionals who have garnered great respect in the NBA and are guys that have gotten so close to a title, but never won one. Never got over the hump. Never did the things, big or small, in a 7 game series to hoist that O'Brien trophy over their head. And going up against "Miami Thrice", "The Super Friends", or "The Big Three" wasn't going to be any easy task either. Maybe even their toughest challenge of all.
But championships, in any sport, even in life (working hard for that promotion, studying hard for that exam to get that A, etc.) are about hunger. It's about who wants it more. Not about who has better talent. Nothing in life is deserved. Everything must be earned. If you want something, go out there and get it. Instead of doing photo-shoots and taking pictures with Jay-Z, get in the gym and shoot jumpers, catch footballs, and take batting practice. Because that is how you win championships. Very few players in the world have been able to have their cake and eat it too (meaning they are the total package: Great players, Champions, who also are socialites and media figures). Michael Jordan, and Tom Brady come to mind.
But one thing that is being missed on this road to winning a championship is something that I believe almost all athletes must endure in order to achieve greatness: they must take their lumps. They must battle hardships. Because that is how you learn. That's how you grow. Michael Jordan didn't make his high school basketball team. Tom Brady was drafted in the 6th round. Because of these things, these events in their lives, these guys play with a chip on their shoulder. Nothing is ever good enough. They are out to prove everyone wrong, everyone who said they couldn't do it.
Which brings me to Dirk. A mini superstar (not by stature, but by attitude), Dirk had played well enough with his teammates to earn a chance to play in the 2006 NBA Finals. We all know how that ended. Because of that series, Dirk and the rest of the Mav's have been the face of ridicule for the last 5 years. Soft, choke-artists, one-and-done, and my all time favorite "same-ol Mav's". But Dirk said it best with this quote,"If I would have won one earlier in my career, maybe I would have never put all the work and time in that I have over the years". And that's the key point.
Not to say that other players in the league don't work hard. I know LeBron James and the Miami Heat work hard. But it is so much more than that. But in order to have that killer instinct, that feeling you get when your so close to something, something that is so important to you, and you look around at your teammates and say,"This is mine," you have to have been there before. You have to have been close to it, and then have it ripped away from you. Because that is how you get hungry. That's the only way.
The Texas Rangers, who we all love so much, don't deserve a title. The Dallas Cowboys, "America's Team", do not deserve another title. They have to earn one. LeBron James doesn't deserve a title. And maybe, just maybe, after this playoff series, he realizes that nothing is going to come easy for him, even if he is the "King". Even if he is "The Chosen One", like the tattoo on his back proclaims.
LeBron is going to have to work for his championship, perhaps harder than anyone in professional sports right now. Because no one wants him to succeed. He brought it upon himself. The ridicule, the scorn, the delight everyone is taking in his failure to finish.
So I will remind you LeBron, remind you of something you made clear a long time ago:
We Are All Witnesses.
Still watching, and still waiting.
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Monday, June 13, 2011
BREAKING NEWS
Dallas Stars Hire Glen Gulutzan, head coach of the AHL Texas Stars, as their head coach.
Gulutzan has been coach of the Texas Stars the past two seasons, posting an 87-56-7-10 (.597) record and a 16-14 mark in the playoffs.
In the team's inaugural season in 2009-10, the Stars advanced to the Calder Cup finals. They made it to the playoffs this past season as well.
The Wranglers put together three straight 100-plus-points seasons, becoming the first ECHL team to do that.
He led Las Vegas to the ECHL's Kelly Cup finals in 2008 and the conference finals in 2009. He was named ECHL Coach of the Year in 2005-06.He was the coach of the Las Vegas Wranglers of the ECHL for six seasons, compiling a 254-124-55 (.650) mark
Deshawn's Swag
Check out Deshawn "Junkyard" Stevenson's swag on arriving home to Dallas! (Curtsy of Bryan Gutierrez)
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Postgame 6 - NBA Champions!
Listen to TAG Radio's immediate reactions to the Mavericks winning their first championship in franchise history. More to come in the following weeks.
Also, please listen to TAG's video with this sound track playing on repeat in the background:
Also, please listen to TAG's video with this sound track playing on repeat in the background:
Pregame from South Beach in Miami - Game 6
Saturday, June 11, 2011
TAG Radio in Miami to cover NBA Finals
Ah ya. Your TAG Radio hosts are onsite giving you behind the scenes coverage like no one else.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Throwback Quote
After the dreaded 2006 meltdown in the Finals that all Mav's fans know about and still get chills at it's mention, Dirk and the rest of the Mavs made excuse after excuse (with some of them reasonable). Poor officiating and throwing away Game 3 were the reason for the Mav's demise.
Then in 2007, after relentless questioning and barraging by reporters, the "Wise" D Wade let Dirk have it. " Dirk says they gave us the championship last year, but he's the reason they lost. He wasn't the leader that he's supposed to be in the closing moments."
He also stated this:
"At the end of the day, you're remembered for what you did at the end."
Funny how things change isn't it?
I don't need to say anymore, if you have watched the games you know exactly where I am going with this.
The 4th quarter is Mavs time, especially Dirk.
I'll leave the rest up to you guys.....
-Taylor
TAG Radio Founding Father
Wade and Lebron Mock Dirk
http://cosbysweaters.com/2011/06/09/lebron-and-dwyane-wade-mock-dirks-illness/
Check out this video of Wade and Lebron mocking Dirk before Game 5. Gutless.
Check out this video of Wade and Lebron mocking Dirk before Game 5. Gutless.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Post Game on the Patio - Game 5
Stay tuned in tomorrow for post game reaction and this weekend for Game 6 predictions.
One step closer. GO MAVS!
Be loud. Be proud. TAG Radio.
Game 5 Pregame by the Poolside
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbkkEWrdrdU
TAG Radio's thoughts and predictions on the pivotal Game 5 match up. Today we play fact or fiction on 5 major questions which will shape the landscape of tonight's game.
Join us after the game for post game coverage on Postgame on the Patio.
Be loud. Be proud. Go Mavs!
TAG Radio's thoughts and predictions on the pivotal Game 5 match up. Today we play fact or fiction on 5 major questions which will shape the landscape of tonight's game.
Join us after the game for post game coverage on Postgame on the Patio.
Be loud. Be proud. Go Mavs!
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