The latest news in wrestling is Jim Ross's contract is up and the WWE will not be renewing his deal. The best wrestling, perhaps in all of sports, announcer is going to hang up the black hat. I am deeply saddened and pissed off by the news. I don't understand why you would let the best announcer walk away and a guy like Matt Striker or Michael Cole have jobs. Jim may end up at TNA or other side projects. With the news and an uncertain future, I felt compelled to write my idol a personal letter directed to him.
Dear Good Ole' JR,
I heard the WWE is not going to renew your contract and your time in the wrestling industry could very well come to an end. You have probably heard it before by some of the biggest names in wrestling but it should be said from this moment on, Jim Ross is the greatest announcer wrestling has ever had and most likely ever will have. Your relationship with the wrestlers was showcased by your brilliant calls. I could name a ton of moments I can remember and never forget. Most of my memories come from the "Austin Era". You and Steve had a relationship one could only dream about. I have heard many stories where Steve said you were the one that put him on top of the wrestling world. The thing I admired the most about your announcing was how you could tell the story to the fans.
We all witnessed some instant classic with beautiful storytelling during the match. You would always understand the story and illustrate it to us. The most important thing is you never took away from the story. You enhanced it. The announcers today have not learned that which hurts the wrestling product. You knew what to say and how to say it or you knew when to stay quiet and let us enjoy the moment. Great broadcasters have learned the art and you painted the most beautiful paintings.
The other thing I want to say is you always saw the potential in wrestlers even when they didn't. You always said Shelton Benjamin was the best pure athlete in the WWE. I couldn't argue that point. Shelton displayed how good he can be during the Money in the Bank matches. However, he never fully understood "it". I'm not an insider and I have no idea your relationship with Shelton. I do think he should have listened to you a little closer because he could have been something special. I always admired your honesty during any of your broadcasts and the insight you gave us.
You can not be replaced. I know the WWE has tried to move you to different shows and different partners, it never mattered. You were the main attraction at the table. I am not sure if you will come back to the WWE or sign with TNA or stay retired. All I know is, no one can wear the black hat you have left behind. Thank you for the wonderful memories. I wish you nothing but the best in your future.
One of many true wrestling fans,
Joel McCall
P.S Can I get Vince McMahon's number? I thought I would ask.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Raw 4-26
I want you to forget everything. I know Extreme Rules was last night and the pay per view was rather weak. Swagger is still the World champ and Cena, as I said, is still the WWE champ. Forget about it all. Raw has the draft and all new story lines are going to start. I said after Wrestlemania the new season begins. Well I was wrong because the new season really starts with the draft. We don't get a crappy celebrity GM, it's all about the draft and starting some new things. I really hope the WWE gives us something new because lately has been less than stellar.
Before I get to Raw, the WWE needs to pick a new theme song. Nickelback has ran its course. In fact it was old after a week. I hate Nickelback that's all I am trying to say.
The WWE did a great thing keeping Bret around and giving a great rub to the Hart Dynasty. David Hart is starting to get it and is really growing as a wrestler. The opening segment reminded me of what the tag team titles use to mean in the WWE. They don't have as many good tag teams but the division should be used a lot better than it has been in the past two or three years. I popped for the title change. A fantastic tag team match and very good opener for the draft show. Good to know tag team wrestling isn't dead in the WWE. Big Show turning on Miz made zero sense. They had a great match with the Hart Dynasty and have been a good tag team on all three shows.
Swagger needed to go over at Extreme Rules. The momentum was going all Orton's way and Swagger stopped it. He is the new man on Smackdown and if the WWE is smart, they keep Swagger as the champion for a few more months. Edge and Swagger should be a very fun feud on Friday night. Swagger has to continue beating the top men on Smackdown for fans to accept him as a champion.
The crowd had me laughing with a large we want Mickie chant during the diva tag match. The release of Mickie didn't make a lot of sense in my opinion. Beth winning the title was a huge shock. McCool has been on a role and keeping the belt made more sense and have Beth chase it to build up a nice feud. I don't give a crap that Kelly is moving to Smackdown. A good job getting the women's move out of the way and start the real draft.
I thought the Extreme rules match with Punk and Rey was a hair vs mask match. I had heard Joey Mercury was the mystery man who helped Punk win the match. The society could use one more quality wrestler because Gallows isn't. The match may have been short, it was still quality and gave Smackdown The Big Show. With Miz staying on Raw and Show on Smack, we have seen the last of ShowMiz. The over/under on how many weeks the WWE gives Show another partner because they won't know what to do with him, two months and I'm taking the under.
Sheamus is becoming a great monster heel for Raw. He has the crowd hating him, even though his dubba dubba e is pretty funny. The ShowStoppers hosts said last week Orton was heading to Smackdown and become the new man over there. I knew that wasn't the case and Orton deserves to stay on the franchise biggest T.V. show. Raw didn't start they way I wrote on the Extreme Rules pick blog with Cena saying 'the champ is here'. The Cena bit with his phone might have been the lamest thing he has ever done. Even better was his lame ass attempt to get mad on the phone. I have never heard of a champion naming his own contender. If I were the champ and could name my own contender, I would name Hornswaggle. I know I would be keeping the belt for another month that way. Stupid way to make a good main event match.
The only night when faces and heels team up and no one cares because it's all about brand loyalty. Did you even remember Yoshi Tatsu was on Raw? Yeah me neither. The finish with Dibiase and Rey could be a hell of a feud and some very good in ring performances. John Morrison is a perfect wrestler to bring over to Raw. He hasn't been used correctly. R-Truth is fun to watch and then you add in Edge to the mix. Huge movement for Raw after the battle royal.
Jericho isn't having the best of weeks. He is however one of the most giving wrestlers on the roster. Why do I say that? I haven't seen to many wrestlers step up and give the nudge to the NXT wrestlers like Jericho. He and Bryan had a match that was solid the first week and now he lost to Heath. Jericho never got a major push in WCW because the top tier guys never helped him along. Chris is the complete opposite of those idiots. By helping the young stars develop, the wrestling product is helped as well. Christian and Jericho had a beautiful match at Wrestlemania 20. The match on Raw wasn't as good for obvious reason. I would love to see a full fledged feud with these two men. I was hoping the pick was Christian so I could see a feud. However, Kofi and Jericho would be fresh.
John should be a heel on Raw. He should also take the U.S title from Miz and start feuding with all kinds of wrestlers. One good thing to come about the draft and the tag title off Miz, we might see him feud with a guy like Morrison. Swagger and Morrison are going to be headlining pay per views very soon. Their match was phenomenal. Swagger has really stepped up his game since becoming World champ. I ended up getting my wish with Christian moving to Smackdown. A perfect fit because Raw has not done enough with Christian.
Teddy starting his own group is the best thing they could do. R-Truth throwing out the Virgil card, hilarious. R-Truth and Dibiase feud is born with one bitch slap. I love Ziggler and that was a complete waste of time. He is better than being used as a time filler. Jericho coming back to Monday night is a welcome to this Raw blogger. I love writing about Jericho and how good he is even if everyone is suppose to hate him.
Batista lost to Cena via duct tape. Red Green would be proud. Duct tape is the handy man secret. If you don't get the reference just google Red Green or find him on youtube. The triple threat match was a much better idea than the original one on one contest. The match proves how many guys Raw has who can contend. Batista is leaving the WWE in another month. I am not happy with Batista winning and we will see another Batista vs Cena match at Over the Limit. I loved Edge turning heel again. He is so much better as a bad guy. We will see Edge and Orton at the next pay per view and that gets me excited. So the ending was a hit followed by a big miss for me. Although I have ignored the WWE title for the past four months so it doesn't change much for me.
The draft solidified several things with Raw. I like the changes so far with Orton and Edge. I can see a future with Dibiase and Truth. Morrison could have a feud with about anyone and make the show better. The draft will certainly start up some fresh story lines and that's the key. Does Wayne Brady have to choke a Diva next week? I sure hope so. I forgot last week so I won't this week. Be sure to check out Wasp's take on TNA Impact each and every week. Also you can listen to ShowStoppers every Tuesday afternoon for a new show. I will be back next week with another Raw blog.
J Call
Before I get to Raw, the WWE needs to pick a new theme song. Nickelback has ran its course. In fact it was old after a week. I hate Nickelback that's all I am trying to say.
The WWE did a great thing keeping Bret around and giving a great rub to the Hart Dynasty. David Hart is starting to get it and is really growing as a wrestler. The opening segment reminded me of what the tag team titles use to mean in the WWE. They don't have as many good tag teams but the division should be used a lot better than it has been in the past two or three years. I popped for the title change. A fantastic tag team match and very good opener for the draft show. Good to know tag team wrestling isn't dead in the WWE. Big Show turning on Miz made zero sense. They had a great match with the Hart Dynasty and have been a good tag team on all three shows.
Swagger needed to go over at Extreme Rules. The momentum was going all Orton's way and Swagger stopped it. He is the new man on Smackdown and if the WWE is smart, they keep Swagger as the champion for a few more months. Edge and Swagger should be a very fun feud on Friday night. Swagger has to continue beating the top men on Smackdown for fans to accept him as a champion.
The crowd had me laughing with a large we want Mickie chant during the diva tag match. The release of Mickie didn't make a lot of sense in my opinion. Beth winning the title was a huge shock. McCool has been on a role and keeping the belt made more sense and have Beth chase it to build up a nice feud. I don't give a crap that Kelly is moving to Smackdown. A good job getting the women's move out of the way and start the real draft.
I thought the Extreme rules match with Punk and Rey was a hair vs mask match. I had heard Joey Mercury was the mystery man who helped Punk win the match. The society could use one more quality wrestler because Gallows isn't. The match may have been short, it was still quality and gave Smackdown The Big Show. With Miz staying on Raw and Show on Smack, we have seen the last of ShowMiz. The over/under on how many weeks the WWE gives Show another partner because they won't know what to do with him, two months and I'm taking the under.
Sheamus is becoming a great monster heel for Raw. He has the crowd hating him, even though his dubba dubba e is pretty funny. The ShowStoppers hosts said last week Orton was heading to Smackdown and become the new man over there. I knew that wasn't the case and Orton deserves to stay on the franchise biggest T.V. show. Raw didn't start they way I wrote on the Extreme Rules pick blog with Cena saying 'the champ is here'. The Cena bit with his phone might have been the lamest thing he has ever done. Even better was his lame ass attempt to get mad on the phone. I have never heard of a champion naming his own contender. If I were the champ and could name my own contender, I would name Hornswaggle. I know I would be keeping the belt for another month that way. Stupid way to make a good main event match.
The only night when faces and heels team up and no one cares because it's all about brand loyalty. Did you even remember Yoshi Tatsu was on Raw? Yeah me neither. The finish with Dibiase and Rey could be a hell of a feud and some very good in ring performances. John Morrison is a perfect wrestler to bring over to Raw. He hasn't been used correctly. R-Truth is fun to watch and then you add in Edge to the mix. Huge movement for Raw after the battle royal.
Jericho isn't having the best of weeks. He is however one of the most giving wrestlers on the roster. Why do I say that? I haven't seen to many wrestlers step up and give the nudge to the NXT wrestlers like Jericho. He and Bryan had a match that was solid the first week and now he lost to Heath. Jericho never got a major push in WCW because the top tier guys never helped him along. Chris is the complete opposite of those idiots. By helping the young stars develop, the wrestling product is helped as well. Christian and Jericho had a beautiful match at Wrestlemania 20. The match on Raw wasn't as good for obvious reason. I would love to see a full fledged feud with these two men. I was hoping the pick was Christian so I could see a feud. However, Kofi and Jericho would be fresh.
John should be a heel on Raw. He should also take the U.S title from Miz and start feuding with all kinds of wrestlers. One good thing to come about the draft and the tag title off Miz, we might see him feud with a guy like Morrison. Swagger and Morrison are going to be headlining pay per views very soon. Their match was phenomenal. Swagger has really stepped up his game since becoming World champ. I ended up getting my wish with Christian moving to Smackdown. A perfect fit because Raw has not done enough with Christian.
Teddy starting his own group is the best thing they could do. R-Truth throwing out the Virgil card, hilarious. R-Truth and Dibiase feud is born with one bitch slap. I love Ziggler and that was a complete waste of time. He is better than being used as a time filler. Jericho coming back to Monday night is a welcome to this Raw blogger. I love writing about Jericho and how good he is even if everyone is suppose to hate him.
Batista lost to Cena via duct tape. Red Green would be proud. Duct tape is the handy man secret. If you don't get the reference just google Red Green or find him on youtube. The triple threat match was a much better idea than the original one on one contest. The match proves how many guys Raw has who can contend. Batista is leaving the WWE in another month. I am not happy with Batista winning and we will see another Batista vs Cena match at Over the Limit. I loved Edge turning heel again. He is so much better as a bad guy. We will see Edge and Orton at the next pay per view and that gets me excited. So the ending was a hit followed by a big miss for me. Although I have ignored the WWE title for the past four months so it doesn't change much for me.
The draft solidified several things with Raw. I like the changes so far with Orton and Edge. I can see a future with Dibiase and Truth. Morrison could have a feud with about anyone and make the show better. The draft will certainly start up some fresh story lines and that's the key. Does Wayne Brady have to choke a Diva next week? I sure hope so. I forgot last week so I won't this week. Be sure to check out Wasp's take on TNA Impact each and every week. Also you can listen to ShowStoppers every Tuesday afternoon for a new show. I will be back next week with another Raw blog.
J Call
Thursday, April 22, 2010
NFL Draft Breakdown
The NFL draft is the best draft of any sport. I always enjoyed waking up Saturday morning, getting all my snacks and never leaving the couch. I hate the primetime slot and think it ruined the whole feel of the draft. I know going into the draft my team will screw up their number eighth pick. The worst feeling the draft gives fans is hope. I have little hope for my team but I do have hope for others. Forget the freaking mocks, give me the real deal.
1) St. Louis Rams - Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma
The one that makes the most sense is Bradford going to the Rams. The Rams have a ton of holes and in the perfect world would have traded down. I like Sam, obviously because I am a Boomer Sooner. The pick works if Sam doesn't start right away.
2) Detriot Lions - Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska
3) Tampa Bay Bucs - Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma
Both teams get who they wanted. I like Suh a little more than McCoy and think both will make an immediate impact for their respective teams. Suh is a load and will change the landscape of the Lions defense. McCoy is being compared to Warren Sapp, I'm not sure we should go that far. McCoy will be a starter for the Bucs for years to come.
4) Washington Redskins - Trent Williams, OT Oklahoma
I might be a homer for Oklahoma and love their players. I thought Okung would have been a better pick here. The Redskins should have drafted Okung to protect McNabb right away. I thought for sure we would have had a trade here. I am waiting for some excitement. So far, it's been going pretty standard.
5) Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Berry, S Tennessee
Yes Eric is a great player with comparisons to Ed Reed and Polamalu. My question is who the hell protects Cassell? I would have rather seen Okung go here and protect Cassell for years to come. Perhaps the Chiefs will take Campbell from Maryland in the second round and develop him. For now, Berry is a game changing Safety. I just wouldn't take a Safety that high with an elite tackle on the board.
6) Seattle Seahawks - Russell Okung, OT OK St.
14) Earl Thomas, S Texas
Is Pete Carroll a good pro coach? I doubt it but he was smart with this pick. I like Okung and feel this was the perfect guy for Seattle. They still need to address the quarterback spot because Hasselback has very little left in the tank. Charlie Whitehurst isn't the answer either. I thought with their 14th pick they would look at Clausen. I love Earl Thomas and what he brings to the Seattle defense. I thought he would have gone to Philly at thirteen. I liked what Seattle did with their two first round picks.
7) Cleveland Browns - Joe Haden, CB Fla
A complete reach here at the seven spot. Earl Thomas was the better choice. Jimmy Clausen would have been funnier than hell after shipping off Brady Quinn. I found that to be the first blunder of the night.
8) Oakland Raiders - Rolando McClain, ILB Alabama
I couldn't be happier with this pick. He is a smart football player and that is exactly what the Raiders need. A guy that will play right away and will make an impact. I finally wasn't pissed about the Raiders first round pick.
9) Buffalo Bills - CJ Spiller, RB Clemson
I was confused about the Spiller pick. He can come in and play right away. The Bills need to move Lynch or Jackson now. The pick was Jimmy Clausen and the Bills should have pulled the trigger. Who the hell is going to open holes for Spiller?
10) Jacksonville Jaguars - Tyson Alualu, DT California
The 2010 Al Davis reach of the NFL draft goes to the Jags. Who the hell is this guy? I know Jacksonville liked Spiller and he was taking. The worst pick so far goes to Jaguars. Dan Williams was the better prospect.
11) San Francisco - Anthony Davis, OT Rutgers
12) San Diego - Ryan Matthews, RB Fresno State
13) Philadelphia - Brandon Graham, DE Michigan
Our first moves of the night. San Fran didn't have to move up to get Davis. Miami wasn't going to take him and neither was Denver especially after seeing all the moves. I do like Davis and think he will play along side Joe Staley for years to come. San Diego did have to move up to get Matthews. The Chargers needed another back to complement Sproles and had they not moved up, Houston would have taken him at number 20. I loved the Eagles moving up to get Earl Thomas. Instead, they shocked me by taking Brandon Graham. A good player but they gave up quite a bit to move up. They must have loved him to give up so much to get him. I would praise Philly had they taken Earl Thomas since I saw him as a top ten talent.
15) New York Giants - Jason Pierre Paul, DL South Florida
16) Tennessee Titans - Derrick Morgan, DE Georgia Tech
Back to back d-line picks. Paul is a project and if there was a team he fit its the Giants. The Giants needed a lot of help on the defense. I am not sold on Paul being an immediate starter for the team. He could be a passing down player for the first year. The picks should have been switched. Giants could have had Morgan a step in and play player instead of a project. Tennessee got the better of the two picks.
17) San Francisco - Mike Iupati, OG Idaho
I have to question the niners. Singletary must have a lot of trust in Alex Smith. I like Iupati and think he is going to be a good player. I am not sold on Smith so I would have taken Clausen. San Fran should be set on the o-line for years to come after this draft.
18) Pittsburgh - Maurkice Pouncey, OL Fla
No surprise here. The best pick Pitt could make. I can't say much about this pick because I saw it coming.
19) Atlanta - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB Misso
20) Houston - Kareem Jackson, CB Bama
I liked Sergio Kindle over Weatherspoon. Sean is a good player and should start. I felt Kindle was the better player to take for a team who need a linebacker. Houston simply drafted for a need and that was perfect. They have needed secondary help for years and with Dunta Robinson gone, corner was the position most desirable.
21) Cincinatti Bengals - Jermaine Gresham, TE OU
22) Denver - Denaryius Thomas, WR Georgia Tech
Thank god because had Gresham gone to New England, I would have a hard time rooting for him. I like Gresham obviously. He's got skills and will be a security blanket for Carson. Denver is the most puzzling team in the first round. I understand they had questions about Dez and think he was a lot like Brandon Marshall. Dez is the better receiver. Stupid pick and if you are a Bronco fan you should be pissed.
23) Green Bay - Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa
24) Dallas - Dez Bryant, WR Ok St
Bulaga's stock fell and went to the team that needed an offensive tackle badly. Bryan should help the offensive line right away. I hope he turns out better than Robert Gallery. Dallas gets another weapon for Romo. I hate the Cowboys but this is a great player. Dez could turn into the next Michael Irvin and will take all the pressure off the terrible wide receiver Roy Williams. Jerry admits he made a mistake and rectifies it by getting Bryant. Good move.
25) Denver - Tim Tebow, QB Fla
I, unlike all media stations, won't suck up to Tim Tebow. I would write something a lot worst but I try to be a PG writer. Tebow is not a good qb and is no where near Clausen in being ready for the pros. Tebow will fail as a QB. I am a doubter and will continue to be one until Tebow proves it on the field. The biggest reach by Denver since Maurice Clarett.
26) Arizona Cardinals - Dan Williams, DT Tennessee
27) New England - Devin McCourty, CB Rutgers
I love it. Dan was a top 15 talent and getting him here was a steal. He's a solid player and will fill the need Dansby left behind. New England should have taken Kindle. They needed a cornerback but I liked Kindle better. New England always finds talent and must have saw something in McCourty.
28) Miami - Jared Odrick, DT Penn State
29) New York Jets - Kyle Wilson, CB Boise St.
I like the pick by the Dolphins. They moved down and still got a great player. Incredible pick by the Jets. Cromartie, Revis and now Wilson to cover anyone and everyone they match up against. I thought for sure it would be Kindle to help Gholston since he's a bust.
30) Detriot - Jahvid Best, RB Cali
31) Indianapolis - Jerry Hughes, OLB TCU
32) New Orleans - Patrick Robinson, CB FSU
I love this pick for Detriot. He can run on the turf and can make some moves. The Lions get a fun running back along with Suh. I like the Lions draft. Colts take the need. Jerry should get to play on the opposite side of Dwight Freeney. I can't believe the Saints were the final pick. I am still in shock they won the Super Bowl. The Madden jinx might him them soon with Brees voted for the cover. The Saints reached on the final pick. I was happy to hear Steve Young say Sergio Kindle for the 90th time before their pick. I thought Griffen would have been the better pick and another guy to get to the quarterback.
I had a blast giving my opinions on all the 1st round draft picks. I loved all the moves and surprises, another reason why the NFL draft is the best draft in all of sports. The 2nd and 3rd round is going to be even crazier with McCoy and Clausen still on the board. I can't wait and it should be said one more time: The Raiders didn't screw up the pick. YES!!
J Call
1) St. Louis Rams - Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma
The one that makes the most sense is Bradford going to the Rams. The Rams have a ton of holes and in the perfect world would have traded down. I like Sam, obviously because I am a Boomer Sooner. The pick works if Sam doesn't start right away.
2) Detriot Lions - Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska
3) Tampa Bay Bucs - Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma
Both teams get who they wanted. I like Suh a little more than McCoy and think both will make an immediate impact for their respective teams. Suh is a load and will change the landscape of the Lions defense. McCoy is being compared to Warren Sapp, I'm not sure we should go that far. McCoy will be a starter for the Bucs for years to come.
4) Washington Redskins - Trent Williams, OT Oklahoma
I might be a homer for Oklahoma and love their players. I thought Okung would have been a better pick here. The Redskins should have drafted Okung to protect McNabb right away. I thought for sure we would have had a trade here. I am waiting for some excitement. So far, it's been going pretty standard.
5) Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Berry, S Tennessee
Yes Eric is a great player with comparisons to Ed Reed and Polamalu. My question is who the hell protects Cassell? I would have rather seen Okung go here and protect Cassell for years to come. Perhaps the Chiefs will take Campbell from Maryland in the second round and develop him. For now, Berry is a game changing Safety. I just wouldn't take a Safety that high with an elite tackle on the board.
6) Seattle Seahawks - Russell Okung, OT OK St.
14) Earl Thomas, S Texas
Is Pete Carroll a good pro coach? I doubt it but he was smart with this pick. I like Okung and feel this was the perfect guy for Seattle. They still need to address the quarterback spot because Hasselback has very little left in the tank. Charlie Whitehurst isn't the answer either. I thought with their 14th pick they would look at Clausen. I love Earl Thomas and what he brings to the Seattle defense. I thought he would have gone to Philly at thirteen. I liked what Seattle did with their two first round picks.
7) Cleveland Browns - Joe Haden, CB Fla
A complete reach here at the seven spot. Earl Thomas was the better choice. Jimmy Clausen would have been funnier than hell after shipping off Brady Quinn. I found that to be the first blunder of the night.
8) Oakland Raiders - Rolando McClain, ILB Alabama
I couldn't be happier with this pick. He is a smart football player and that is exactly what the Raiders need. A guy that will play right away and will make an impact. I finally wasn't pissed about the Raiders first round pick.
9) Buffalo Bills - CJ Spiller, RB Clemson
I was confused about the Spiller pick. He can come in and play right away. The Bills need to move Lynch or Jackson now. The pick was Jimmy Clausen and the Bills should have pulled the trigger. Who the hell is going to open holes for Spiller?
10) Jacksonville Jaguars - Tyson Alualu, DT California
The 2010 Al Davis reach of the NFL draft goes to the Jags. Who the hell is this guy? I know Jacksonville liked Spiller and he was taking. The worst pick so far goes to Jaguars. Dan Williams was the better prospect.
11) San Francisco - Anthony Davis, OT Rutgers
12) San Diego - Ryan Matthews, RB Fresno State
13) Philadelphia - Brandon Graham, DE Michigan
Our first moves of the night. San Fran didn't have to move up to get Davis. Miami wasn't going to take him and neither was Denver especially after seeing all the moves. I do like Davis and think he will play along side Joe Staley for years to come. San Diego did have to move up to get Matthews. The Chargers needed another back to complement Sproles and had they not moved up, Houston would have taken him at number 20. I loved the Eagles moving up to get Earl Thomas. Instead, they shocked me by taking Brandon Graham. A good player but they gave up quite a bit to move up. They must have loved him to give up so much to get him. I would praise Philly had they taken Earl Thomas since I saw him as a top ten talent.
15) New York Giants - Jason Pierre Paul, DL South Florida
16) Tennessee Titans - Derrick Morgan, DE Georgia Tech
Back to back d-line picks. Paul is a project and if there was a team he fit its the Giants. The Giants needed a lot of help on the defense. I am not sold on Paul being an immediate starter for the team. He could be a passing down player for the first year. The picks should have been switched. Giants could have had Morgan a step in and play player instead of a project. Tennessee got the better of the two picks.
17) San Francisco - Mike Iupati, OG Idaho
I have to question the niners. Singletary must have a lot of trust in Alex Smith. I like Iupati and think he is going to be a good player. I am not sold on Smith so I would have taken Clausen. San Fran should be set on the o-line for years to come after this draft.
18) Pittsburgh - Maurkice Pouncey, OL Fla
No surprise here. The best pick Pitt could make. I can't say much about this pick because I saw it coming.
19) Atlanta - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB Misso
20) Houston - Kareem Jackson, CB Bama
I liked Sergio Kindle over Weatherspoon. Sean is a good player and should start. I felt Kindle was the better player to take for a team who need a linebacker. Houston simply drafted for a need and that was perfect. They have needed secondary help for years and with Dunta Robinson gone, corner was the position most desirable.
21) Cincinatti Bengals - Jermaine Gresham, TE OU
22) Denver - Denaryius Thomas, WR Georgia Tech
Thank god because had Gresham gone to New England, I would have a hard time rooting for him. I like Gresham obviously. He's got skills and will be a security blanket for Carson. Denver is the most puzzling team in the first round. I understand they had questions about Dez and think he was a lot like Brandon Marshall. Dez is the better receiver. Stupid pick and if you are a Bronco fan you should be pissed.
23) Green Bay - Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa
24) Dallas - Dez Bryant, WR Ok St
Bulaga's stock fell and went to the team that needed an offensive tackle badly. Bryan should help the offensive line right away. I hope he turns out better than Robert Gallery. Dallas gets another weapon for Romo. I hate the Cowboys but this is a great player. Dez could turn into the next Michael Irvin and will take all the pressure off the terrible wide receiver Roy Williams. Jerry admits he made a mistake and rectifies it by getting Bryant. Good move.
25) Denver - Tim Tebow, QB Fla
I, unlike all media stations, won't suck up to Tim Tebow. I would write something a lot worst but I try to be a PG writer. Tebow is not a good qb and is no where near Clausen in being ready for the pros. Tebow will fail as a QB. I am a doubter and will continue to be one until Tebow proves it on the field. The biggest reach by Denver since Maurice Clarett.
26) Arizona Cardinals - Dan Williams, DT Tennessee
27) New England - Devin McCourty, CB Rutgers
I love it. Dan was a top 15 talent and getting him here was a steal. He's a solid player and will fill the need Dansby left behind. New England should have taken Kindle. They needed a cornerback but I liked Kindle better. New England always finds talent and must have saw something in McCourty.
28) Miami - Jared Odrick, DT Penn State
29) New York Jets - Kyle Wilson, CB Boise St.
I like the pick by the Dolphins. They moved down and still got a great player. Incredible pick by the Jets. Cromartie, Revis and now Wilson to cover anyone and everyone they match up against. I thought for sure it would be Kindle to help Gholston since he's a bust.
30) Detriot - Jahvid Best, RB Cali
31) Indianapolis - Jerry Hughes, OLB TCU
32) New Orleans - Patrick Robinson, CB FSU
I love this pick for Detriot. He can run on the turf and can make some moves. The Lions get a fun running back along with Suh. I like the Lions draft. Colts take the need. Jerry should get to play on the opposite side of Dwight Freeney. I can't believe the Saints were the final pick. I am still in shock they won the Super Bowl. The Madden jinx might him them soon with Brees voted for the cover. The Saints reached on the final pick. I was happy to hear Steve Young say Sergio Kindle for the 90th time before their pick. I thought Griffen would have been the better pick and another guy to get to the quarterback.
I had a blast giving my opinions on all the 1st round draft picks. I loved all the moves and surprises, another reason why the NFL draft is the best draft in all of sports. The 2nd and 3rd round is going to be even crazier with McCoy and Clausen still on the board. I can't wait and it should be said one more time: The Raiders didn't screw up the pick. YES!!
J Call
Extreme Rules Picks
I'll be honest with you as I always am, I won't be purchasing this pay per view. I don't know if it's the weak Raw, weak card or the PG rating, I can't get myself into this Extreme Rules. The WWE has really hurt the special feel of these "unique" pay per views. The strange thing is I have enjoyed Extreme Rules in the past few years and believe there is still two worth while matches on this years card. I'll try and improve on my horrible picks I made on my Wrestlemania pick blog.
Women's Title Match
Michelle McCool (c) vs Beth Phoenix
At least one under card belt made the show. With no U.S, IC or Tag title match, the Women's title gets a chance to shine. The news of Mickie James being released from the WWE is a bit of a head scratcher. I always wanted a Mickie vs McCool vs Beth triple threat match and never got my wish. Since Mickie is gone, Beth becomes the new feud with McCool and her gang. I'm taking McCool to hold on to the belt with some help.
Strap Match
JTG vs Shad
Why did Cryme Tyme break up? The bigger question is does anyone care? Nope. I'll take Shad and move on.
Hair vs Mask
Punk vs Rey
Last year, Rey was in a similar match with Jericho for the IC belt and stole the show. One of my favorite pay per views is Armageddon in 2008 because Jeff Hardy won his first World Title. The other reason, Punk and Rey had an incredible match. I felt their match at Mania was short of my expectations. Rey will not lose his mask. The mask is to important to him, plus a huge revenue for the WWE since little kids love buying them. Rey Rey will wins and Punk will look like his bald girlfriend. Will Punk keep his bushy beard?
Street Fight
Triple H vs Sheamus
Good match at Mania and I expect something more here. I think if Raw would have been a normal show, Triple H would have gotten over on Sheamus. Triple H has a bromance on Sheamus. I think Sheamus earned Trips respect at Wrestlemania and will have no problem putting over the Irish Ghost. Give me Sheamus.
Cage Match
Edge vs Jericho
I felt this was another match that fell short at Wrestlemania. I don't care if I don't get blood in this match. Go back and watch Bret vs brother Owen in their cage match, no blood, still a great match. Edge lost out on the opportunity to regain the World title at Wrestlemania. I think it's time he gets a clean pinfall over Jericho. I'll take the spear and the three count for the Rated R Superstar.
World Heavyweight Championship Extreme Rules Match
Jack Swagger (c) vs Randy Orton
All the Showstoppers hosts are in an agreement Swagger will lose and Orton is the man on Smackdown after the draft. Where does it say Orton can't be the man on Smackdown without the World title? The WWE is trying to push Swagger so you don't take the belt off of him. I called Orton the new face of wrestling and in order to be that he has to help elevate other wrestlers. Randy did just that at the Royal Rumble with Sheamus. Now he will do the same thing for Jack Swagger. Swagger keeps the belt.
WWE Title Last Man Standing Match
John Cena (c) vs Batista
No secret, I hate both men. John on Showstoppers made a mistake when he said everytime Cena is in a LMS match he wins. One year ago, Cena lost to Edge in this same match only the show was Backlash not Extreme Rules. One year later, Cena will pick up the victory and successfully defend his WWE title. Raw will begin with the same old "The champ is here."
J Call
Women's Title Match
Michelle McCool (c) vs Beth Phoenix
At least one under card belt made the show. With no U.S, IC or Tag title match, the Women's title gets a chance to shine. The news of Mickie James being released from the WWE is a bit of a head scratcher. I always wanted a Mickie vs McCool vs Beth triple threat match and never got my wish. Since Mickie is gone, Beth becomes the new feud with McCool and her gang. I'm taking McCool to hold on to the belt with some help.
Strap Match
JTG vs Shad
Why did Cryme Tyme break up? The bigger question is does anyone care? Nope. I'll take Shad and move on.
Hair vs Mask
Punk vs Rey
Last year, Rey was in a similar match with Jericho for the IC belt and stole the show. One of my favorite pay per views is Armageddon in 2008 because Jeff Hardy won his first World Title. The other reason, Punk and Rey had an incredible match. I felt their match at Mania was short of my expectations. Rey will not lose his mask. The mask is to important to him, plus a huge revenue for the WWE since little kids love buying them. Rey Rey will wins and Punk will look like his bald girlfriend. Will Punk keep his bushy beard?
Street Fight
Triple H vs Sheamus
Good match at Mania and I expect something more here. I think if Raw would have been a normal show, Triple H would have gotten over on Sheamus. Triple H has a bromance on Sheamus. I think Sheamus earned Trips respect at Wrestlemania and will have no problem putting over the Irish Ghost. Give me Sheamus.
Cage Match
Edge vs Jericho
I felt this was another match that fell short at Wrestlemania. I don't care if I don't get blood in this match. Go back and watch Bret vs brother Owen in their cage match, no blood, still a great match. Edge lost out on the opportunity to regain the World title at Wrestlemania. I think it's time he gets a clean pinfall over Jericho. I'll take the spear and the three count for the Rated R Superstar.
World Heavyweight Championship Extreme Rules Match
Jack Swagger (c) vs Randy Orton
All the Showstoppers hosts are in an agreement Swagger will lose and Orton is the man on Smackdown after the draft. Where does it say Orton can't be the man on Smackdown without the World title? The WWE is trying to push Swagger so you don't take the belt off of him. I called Orton the new face of wrestling and in order to be that he has to help elevate other wrestlers. Randy did just that at the Royal Rumble with Sheamus. Now he will do the same thing for Jack Swagger. Swagger keeps the belt.
WWE Title Last Man Standing Match
John Cena (c) vs Batista
No secret, I hate both men. John on Showstoppers made a mistake when he said everytime Cena is in a LMS match he wins. One year ago, Cena lost to Edge in this same match only the show was Backlash not Extreme Rules. One year later, Cena will pick up the victory and successfully defend his WWE title. Raw will begin with the same old "The champ is here."
J Call
Monday, April 19, 2010
Raw 4-19
With all the Raw stars were stuck in Europe, Smackdown gets showcased on Raw. Triple H was the only one who didn't go on the tour. The story lines are not going to be forwarded and that really sucks when you are talking about a pay per view in six days. I wonder if Smackdown will have a bunch of Raw stars or will they be stuck for another few days. Incredibly bad luck for the WWE. On the other hand, Smackdown was a great show last Friday night so maybe this will benefit Raw. The other cool thing is I get to talk about many stars I never get to write about on most Raw blogs. I thought I was going to be lenient with all the problems the WWE had over the weekend. I couldn't let them off the hook after this poor show.
The WWE was smart starting off with Triple H. Since all the other Raw wrestlers weren't there, Triple H should get the spotlight and start the show. The first segment proved Triple H is the true spokesmen for the WWE. The Showstoppers hosts may not like Punk, I love him. The Straightedge Society is starting to pick up major steam on Smackdown. Punk is a solid in ring performer and his promos have been fantastic. The future of the company is Orton and the young guys who follow. I believe Punk is one of the future stars. He is finding is own craft. I tell you what, I would love to see Punk versus Orton at Wrestlemania 27 for the WWE title. The segment went to long and could have been shorten by about five minutes. However it set up a solid tag match for later.
Matt Hardy is one of the most under rated wrestlers on the entire WWE roster. He has never been used correctly. He is used to elevate new talent. I have seen several matches with these two and I didn't like how it ended. Matt has been in the "head injury" story before. I do like Drew and think he has a big future. Another opportunity to use Matt as a stepping stool which is the role the WWE has labeled Hardy.
The Cena promo after was very weak. He has the same shtick all the damn time. Why do people keep cheering for him? I bet he wrote that in two minutes. Simply crapola from Cena.
I liked Kozlov on ECW and was being used correctly. I also thought using King was a great idea. I don't watch a lot of Saturday Night Live but I have seen several MacGruber and thought they were hilarious. Again the segment went long and I hate when the celebrity gets in the ring. I would have liked to see Truth have the match with Kozlov. The WWE has had to much filler so far on the show. I know the Raw stars are overseas and can't be there. They could still provide us with some good in ring entertainment.
The Orton promo was just as weak as the Cena one. If they taped them, why not make them a little longer? Always nice to see the Deadman on Raw. He makes it feel special. I was hoping for a strong contest so Swagger wouldn't look weak. Smackdown has done a good job keeping Swagger look strong after winning the title. His win over Jericho and Edge last week on Smackdown proved it. The match didn't bury Swagger and that was my biggest fear when Taker came out. Swagger didn't win and that's ok because it was The Undertaker. Swagger needed to show he can hang with the best of them and he did that in the match.
The main event was a lot of fun to watch. I have always enjoyed Rey Mysterio and what he does in the ring. Raw wasn't used to hype up many of the feuds except the Rey Punk and Edge Jericho. I knew the WWE couldn't do much since all the Raw stars were gone. I understand that but they could have done more with their interviews. I liked how they used Sheamus's interview to beat some dude in the back. The WWE hasn't had a monster heel in quite sometime. Sheamus is getting close to that status. The WWE was smart having Triple H win and look strong. Punk looked weak which means he needs to bounce back on Smackdown.
I will admit I was bored with Raw. Other than the main event and Taker's return, the show sucked. Raw had way to much MacGruber. I think if the regular Raw stars were there and the writing wasn't changed in the last minute, I wouldn't have had to sit through all the lame crap. I can't recall another host being shown as much as MacGruber. I'm sure it had something to do with some of the WWE stars being in the movie. Tonight, I was completely letdown by all of the backstage crap. Thankfully, it was only one week. I will be saved by the Draft next week with no celebrity host. I will be back Friday morning with a Extreme Rules pick blog.
J Call
The WWE was smart starting off with Triple H. Since all the other Raw wrestlers weren't there, Triple H should get the spotlight and start the show. The first segment proved Triple H is the true spokesmen for the WWE. The Showstoppers hosts may not like Punk, I love him. The Straightedge Society is starting to pick up major steam on Smackdown. Punk is a solid in ring performer and his promos have been fantastic. The future of the company is Orton and the young guys who follow. I believe Punk is one of the future stars. He is finding is own craft. I tell you what, I would love to see Punk versus Orton at Wrestlemania 27 for the WWE title. The segment went to long and could have been shorten by about five minutes. However it set up a solid tag match for later.
Matt Hardy is one of the most under rated wrestlers on the entire WWE roster. He has never been used correctly. He is used to elevate new talent. I have seen several matches with these two and I didn't like how it ended. Matt has been in the "head injury" story before. I do like Drew and think he has a big future. Another opportunity to use Matt as a stepping stool which is the role the WWE has labeled Hardy.
The Cena promo after was very weak. He has the same shtick all the damn time. Why do people keep cheering for him? I bet he wrote that in two minutes. Simply crapola from Cena.
I liked Kozlov on ECW and was being used correctly. I also thought using King was a great idea. I don't watch a lot of Saturday Night Live but I have seen several MacGruber and thought they were hilarious. Again the segment went long and I hate when the celebrity gets in the ring. I would have liked to see Truth have the match with Kozlov. The WWE has had to much filler so far on the show. I know the Raw stars are overseas and can't be there. They could still provide us with some good in ring entertainment.
The Orton promo was just as weak as the Cena one. If they taped them, why not make them a little longer? Always nice to see the Deadman on Raw. He makes it feel special. I was hoping for a strong contest so Swagger wouldn't look weak. Smackdown has done a good job keeping Swagger look strong after winning the title. His win over Jericho and Edge last week on Smackdown proved it. The match didn't bury Swagger and that was my biggest fear when Taker came out. Swagger didn't win and that's ok because it was The Undertaker. Swagger needed to show he can hang with the best of them and he did that in the match.
The main event was a lot of fun to watch. I have always enjoyed Rey Mysterio and what he does in the ring. Raw wasn't used to hype up many of the feuds except the Rey Punk and Edge Jericho. I knew the WWE couldn't do much since all the Raw stars were gone. I understand that but they could have done more with their interviews. I liked how they used Sheamus's interview to beat some dude in the back. The WWE hasn't had a monster heel in quite sometime. Sheamus is getting close to that status. The WWE was smart having Triple H win and look strong. Punk looked weak which means he needs to bounce back on Smackdown.
I will admit I was bored with Raw. Other than the main event and Taker's return, the show sucked. Raw had way to much MacGruber. I think if the regular Raw stars were there and the writing wasn't changed in the last minute, I wouldn't have had to sit through all the lame crap. I can't recall another host being shown as much as MacGruber. I'm sure it had something to do with some of the WWE stars being in the movie. Tonight, I was completely letdown by all of the backstage crap. Thankfully, it was only one week. I will be saved by the Draft next week with no celebrity host. I will be back Friday morning with a Extreme Rules pick blog.
J Call
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The New Face
The defining music of Rev Theory pumps through the arena speakers. The crowd rises to their feet because one of the main reasons they bought a ticket is stalking his way down the ramp. He poses on the second turnbuckle, arms open soaking in the cheers from his fans. He is the new anti hero the wrestling world is ready to embrace. Randy Orton is the new face of not only the WWE but all of pro wrestling.
Before I get into the reason I believe this, I think we need to go back and look at the history of Randy Orton so far. Randy Orton is a third generation star. His father Cowboy Bob Orton and grandpa Bob Sr. were both pro wrestling stars so it was inevitable Randy was made for the wrestling world. Once Randy was brought up from Ohio Valley Wrestling to the WWE, you could see he was going to be a top star. The best thing for Orton was Evolution. The group was established with Ric Flair, Triple H and Batista. Randy branched away from the group and became the youngest World Champion in history. After numerous bouts with legendary stars such as Mick Foley, The Rock and a wonderful feud with The Undertaker, he started to gain knowledge of how good he could be.
With all the experience, Orton mastered his craft and has developed into the best wrestling character on television. I have said it numerous times, Randy Orton is the reason I watch Raw every Monday night. Randy was one of the best heels on WWE in the past three years. Now the WWE has him teetering between good and bad guy. He does stuff that normal good guys don't do like Cena but continues to beat up bad guys every week. Randy is starting to develop the same characteristics as the man who brought me back into the wrestling world.
Stone Cold Steve Austin was the greatest character of all time. He beat the crap out of his boss, drank a ton of beer and flipped off anyone he didn't like. Now, I am not saying that Orton is going to do that because we are living in the PG WWE time. I will say Orton has reinvigorated my love for professional wrestling as Austin did in the late 90's. You never wanted to miss a Raw with Austin on the show. Randy is providing that same spark Austin once had. Cena is predictable and will never be living on the same edge as Orton.
The attitude is one thing, the wrestling is another. Randy is making guys look much better than they ever had. He elevates the talent on the roster the same way Legends before him have and did for him. Randy has developed into one of the best in ring performers in the WWE. Cena can't put in a five star match with anyone except Triple H and HBK. Randy has made guys like Batista, Cena and recently Kofi and Sheamus look like great performers. I'm not disrespecting those men, just stating the fact that when they are in the ring with Orton they have a better match.
The other cool thing Orton has is his mannerisms. He breaths life into his character with the way he moves in the ring, walks to the ring and his facial expressions. I may not like the nickname "Viper" but Orton is now acting like the snake. Is it a coincidence that Austin was the rattlesnake and Orton is the viper? I don't think so. Randy is putting the whole package together.
Women and children will scream their heads off at John Cena. He is the ultimate good guy in the WWE. The fans from the attitude era are the ones you hear booing the hell out of him. We want a new face. A man that brings excitement, an out of control attitude and be a great in ring performer. Randy is that guy. He has everything we are looking for in a new face of wrestling. The cheers you here are ones I have not heard since Stone Cold. Randy has finally answered the call of the new face of pro wrestling.
J Call
Before I get into the reason I believe this, I think we need to go back and look at the history of Randy Orton so far. Randy Orton is a third generation star. His father Cowboy Bob Orton and grandpa Bob Sr. were both pro wrestling stars so it was inevitable Randy was made for the wrestling world. Once Randy was brought up from Ohio Valley Wrestling to the WWE, you could see he was going to be a top star. The best thing for Orton was Evolution. The group was established with Ric Flair, Triple H and Batista. Randy branched away from the group and became the youngest World Champion in history. After numerous bouts with legendary stars such as Mick Foley, The Rock and a wonderful feud with The Undertaker, he started to gain knowledge of how good he could be.
With all the experience, Orton mastered his craft and has developed into the best wrestling character on television. I have said it numerous times, Randy Orton is the reason I watch Raw every Monday night. Randy was one of the best heels on WWE in the past three years. Now the WWE has him teetering between good and bad guy. He does stuff that normal good guys don't do like Cena but continues to beat up bad guys every week. Randy is starting to develop the same characteristics as the man who brought me back into the wrestling world.
Stone Cold Steve Austin was the greatest character of all time. He beat the crap out of his boss, drank a ton of beer and flipped off anyone he didn't like. Now, I am not saying that Orton is going to do that because we are living in the PG WWE time. I will say Orton has reinvigorated my love for professional wrestling as Austin did in the late 90's. You never wanted to miss a Raw with Austin on the show. Randy is providing that same spark Austin once had. Cena is predictable and will never be living on the same edge as Orton.
The attitude is one thing, the wrestling is another. Randy is making guys look much better than they ever had. He elevates the talent on the roster the same way Legends before him have and did for him. Randy has developed into one of the best in ring performers in the WWE. Cena can't put in a five star match with anyone except Triple H and HBK. Randy has made guys like Batista, Cena and recently Kofi and Sheamus look like great performers. I'm not disrespecting those men, just stating the fact that when they are in the ring with Orton they have a better match.
The other cool thing Orton has is his mannerisms. He breaths life into his character with the way he moves in the ring, walks to the ring and his facial expressions. I may not like the nickname "Viper" but Orton is now acting like the snake. Is it a coincidence that Austin was the rattlesnake and Orton is the viper? I don't think so. Randy is putting the whole package together.
Women and children will scream their heads off at John Cena. He is the ultimate good guy in the WWE. The fans from the attitude era are the ones you hear booing the hell out of him. We want a new face. A man that brings excitement, an out of control attitude and be a great in ring performer. Randy is that guy. He has everything we are looking for in a new face of wrestling. The cheers you here are ones I have not heard since Stone Cold. Randy has finally answered the call of the new face of pro wrestling.
J Call
NBA Playoff Breakdown
I am in the minority because I love the NBA. The league is full of talent young and old. From Kobe and Steve Nash to Lebron and Kevin Durant, the stars are in full gear heading to the postseason. I enjoy watching every series even if the upsets are few and far between. The 82 game regular season is over and the fun begins now. The Eastern Conference is looked at as the weaker of the two conferences so we will start there.
(1) Cleveland Cavs vs (8) Chicago Bulls
The only mismatch I see in this series for the Cavs is Derrick Rose. Cleveland doesn't have a true point guard who can guard Rose. He's quick, penetrates the lane and can find open men. I see the same players when I look at Joakim Noah and Anderson Varejao. As much as I think no one can defend Rose, who can guard the league MVP Lebron James? The trade for Jamison is suppose to get Cleveland over the hump. The Cavs won't go down in the first round with a healthy James. He's the best player in the league and we are all witnessing his evolution. Cavs win in five games.
(4) Boston Celtics vs (5) Miami Heat
Boston has so many questions heading into the postseason. Can this veteran team flip the switch? Will the big three stay healthy and lift the Celtics again? Who will stop Dwayne Wade? The x-factor in this series is Rajon Rondo. He is a tough young point guard whose fresh legs will help Boston. I like D-Wade because he makes everyone around him so much better. I could see Wade stepping up and carrying the Heat to a series victory. I think Boston is on their last legs and they don't have a shot at the Finals. I do believe Boston has one more tough series win in them. Boston holds off and wins in 7.
(3) Atlanta Hawks vs (6) Milwaukee Bucks
The series switched gears when Andrew Bogut went down on that sick fall a few weeks ago. He was having his best year and it's unfortunate it had to end that way. Atlanta has taken their lumps in the past playoff series. The only story line that keeps popping up is Joe Johnson's expiring contract. Without Bogut, the Bucks can't keep up with Al Horford. The Bucks were one of the few surprises in the regular season. Their luck will run out. Atlanta in 6.
(2) Orlando Magic vs (7) Charlotte Bobcats
The defending Eastern Conference champs start their road with the Bobcats. The Bobcats may not have a whole lot of experience in the post season as a franchise. Their coach, Larry Brown is all to familiar with the post season. He has the wisdom to overcome the reality that this is the first time the Bobcats have ever been in the playoffs. I don't think they have the talent though. Dwight Howard is a beast and Okafor can't keep him out of the lane. Rashard Lewis is the key to the Magic's success. He hasn't played well and needs to step it up in order to get back to the Finals. The Magic have more talent and will take care of the Bobcats in 6 games.
Western Conference:
(1) Los Angeles Lakers vs (8) Oklahoma City Thunder
The defending World Champs didn't end their season like they wanted. I guess every team thinks they can flip the switch and they will magically play better. The truth about the Lakers is they need to give the ball to Gasol more. He should receive get a few more touches since no one on the Thunder that can stop him. The young stallion in the NBA Kevin Durant makes the post season for the first time. Much like MJ, Kobe and Lebron, Durant has to find out how brutal it is to lose a few series before he makes the complete leap. The Thunder will get one game against the Lakers and that's it. Lakers in 5.
(4) Denver Nuggets vs (5) Utah Jazz
I would have loved this series much more for the Jazz had they had home court advantage. I think fans believe the coach isn't that relevant. The Nuggets are weaker without George Karl. He is a great coach and has proved it over his long career. The inside game is the most intriguing with K Mart and Boozer along with the back ups Chris "Birdman" Anderson and Paul Milsap. The series will be one of the best series because these two teams are very similar. The point guards are also two of the most important players to watch. Big Shot Billups and Deron Williams have to play well to give their teams a chance to win. I like Billups for his leadership skills while Coach Karl is out. Denver in 7.
(3) Phoenix Suns vs (6) Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers chances comes down to one person Brandon Roy. If he isn't one hundred percent, forget about it. The Suns are one of the hottest teams going into the playoffs. Steve Nash is still going strong even at his ripe old age of 36. I will agree with Grant Hill, Phoenix is starting to win games with their defense, which is something they haven't done in years. The Suns may have lost the season series with Portland, the playoffs are a whole other ball game. I like the Suns in 6.
(2) Dallas Mavericks vs (7) San Antonio Spurs
A lot was made of Popovich resting Duncan and Manu on the final day of the regular season. I understand why people made it a big deal and think Pop was sending a message. The Spurs have matched up several times with the Mavs in the playoffs and I think Pop wanted to play them again. The Mavs started to play well and had 13 game winning streak, then had a letdown after the winning streak. Dallas matches up very well with the Spurs. I liked the way the Spurs have finally come together in the past month. I love the experience of the Spurs and I think they can stay in this series with a health dose of Ginobli and Duncan. In the end, they fall short in Dallas. Dallas in 7.
J Call
(1) Cleveland Cavs vs (8) Chicago Bulls
The only mismatch I see in this series for the Cavs is Derrick Rose. Cleveland doesn't have a true point guard who can guard Rose. He's quick, penetrates the lane and can find open men. I see the same players when I look at Joakim Noah and Anderson Varejao. As much as I think no one can defend Rose, who can guard the league MVP Lebron James? The trade for Jamison is suppose to get Cleveland over the hump. The Cavs won't go down in the first round with a healthy James. He's the best player in the league and we are all witnessing his evolution. Cavs win in five games.
(4) Boston Celtics vs (5) Miami Heat
Boston has so many questions heading into the postseason. Can this veteran team flip the switch? Will the big three stay healthy and lift the Celtics again? Who will stop Dwayne Wade? The x-factor in this series is Rajon Rondo. He is a tough young point guard whose fresh legs will help Boston. I like D-Wade because he makes everyone around him so much better. I could see Wade stepping up and carrying the Heat to a series victory. I think Boston is on their last legs and they don't have a shot at the Finals. I do believe Boston has one more tough series win in them. Boston holds off and wins in 7.
(3) Atlanta Hawks vs (6) Milwaukee Bucks
The series switched gears when Andrew Bogut went down on that sick fall a few weeks ago. He was having his best year and it's unfortunate it had to end that way. Atlanta has taken their lumps in the past playoff series. The only story line that keeps popping up is Joe Johnson's expiring contract. Without Bogut, the Bucks can't keep up with Al Horford. The Bucks were one of the few surprises in the regular season. Their luck will run out. Atlanta in 6.
(2) Orlando Magic vs (7) Charlotte Bobcats
The defending Eastern Conference champs start their road with the Bobcats. The Bobcats may not have a whole lot of experience in the post season as a franchise. Their coach, Larry Brown is all to familiar with the post season. He has the wisdom to overcome the reality that this is the first time the Bobcats have ever been in the playoffs. I don't think they have the talent though. Dwight Howard is a beast and Okafor can't keep him out of the lane. Rashard Lewis is the key to the Magic's success. He hasn't played well and needs to step it up in order to get back to the Finals. The Magic have more talent and will take care of the Bobcats in 6 games.
Western Conference:
(1) Los Angeles Lakers vs (8) Oklahoma City Thunder
The defending World Champs didn't end their season like they wanted. I guess every team thinks they can flip the switch and they will magically play better. The truth about the Lakers is they need to give the ball to Gasol more. He should receive get a few more touches since no one on the Thunder that can stop him. The young stallion in the NBA Kevin Durant makes the post season for the first time. Much like MJ, Kobe and Lebron, Durant has to find out how brutal it is to lose a few series before he makes the complete leap. The Thunder will get one game against the Lakers and that's it. Lakers in 5.
(4) Denver Nuggets vs (5) Utah Jazz
I would have loved this series much more for the Jazz had they had home court advantage. I think fans believe the coach isn't that relevant. The Nuggets are weaker without George Karl. He is a great coach and has proved it over his long career. The inside game is the most intriguing with K Mart and Boozer along with the back ups Chris "Birdman" Anderson and Paul Milsap. The series will be one of the best series because these two teams are very similar. The point guards are also two of the most important players to watch. Big Shot Billups and Deron Williams have to play well to give their teams a chance to win. I like Billups for his leadership skills while Coach Karl is out. Denver in 7.
(3) Phoenix Suns vs (6) Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers chances comes down to one person Brandon Roy. If he isn't one hundred percent, forget about it. The Suns are one of the hottest teams going into the playoffs. Steve Nash is still going strong even at his ripe old age of 36. I will agree with Grant Hill, Phoenix is starting to win games with their defense, which is something they haven't done in years. The Suns may have lost the season series with Portland, the playoffs are a whole other ball game. I like the Suns in 6.
(2) Dallas Mavericks vs (7) San Antonio Spurs
A lot was made of Popovich resting Duncan and Manu on the final day of the regular season. I understand why people made it a big deal and think Pop was sending a message. The Spurs have matched up several times with the Mavs in the playoffs and I think Pop wanted to play them again. The Mavs started to play well and had 13 game winning streak, then had a letdown after the winning streak. Dallas matches up very well with the Spurs. I liked the way the Spurs have finally come together in the past month. I love the experience of the Spurs and I think they can stay in this series with a health dose of Ginobli and Duncan. In the end, they fall short in Dallas. Dallas in 7.
J Call
Monday, April 12, 2010
Raw 4-12
I will not say this often, unfortunately I have to say it now. I agree with the Showstoppers hosts, the WWE needs focus. They seem to be all across the board on Raw. We know Triple H and Sheamus are going to battle again at Extreme Rules along with another WWE Title match with Cena and Batista. What else is going on Raw? Randy Orton doesn't have an opponent for the show. I would have liked to see another Dibiase Orton match. I think it's safe to say the WWE has other plans. Raw needs direction right from the start. The best damn WWE blogger on the planet continues to give you exactly what you want and thats hot opinions and a good Raw break down.
I don't love the Hoff as much as the United Kingdom. I do love Knight Rider. He did look like he was having a lot of fun which is something some celebrities fail to do. I love having Randy Orton go against Swagger at Extreme Rules. The draft is coming up so either Swagger or Orton will be heading to Smackdown. I think we know Orton isn't going anywhere. He's the best wrestler and character on Raw.
I liked Raw starting with the Diva title match. I said last week I am very close to stop writing about the Diva division. The match wasn't to long which isn't always a good thing especially when its a title match. I am not a big fan of Eve either. I liked the reversal on the DDT for the pin. I still think Maryse and Gail Kim would be a better feud. I won't complain to much since Maryse lost her title in a match instead of opening up a lock box.
Dare I say it? The Miz is the hottest rising star in the WWE. I can think of plenty of tag teams better than ShowMiz and one of them would be the Hart Foundation. I didn't think the WWE was going to keep Bret around. I am glad they did to help the Hart Dynasty. The Miz did have some sweet lines to Bret. The tag team division needs a push and this is the perfect way to do it. The two most established tag teams should be facing off each other and having them on both shows makes it even more special. I was impressed by D.H. Smith. He and Miz had a nice competitive match. I have to say I was shocked Miz picked up the victory. The champs stay on a roll. I do think we will see the Hart Dynasty end up facing ShowMiz at Extreme Rules.
I liked giving guys like Carlito and Evan an opportunity on Raw. Two mid carders who work hard and can have good matches. I thought the speed of the match could have been a little faster. The outcome was perfect with Air Bourne. Evan nails it perfectly every time. He is a guy who would be perfect for the U.S title or at least be feuding for it. I will continue to bitch about the United State championship until it is used correctly on Raw.
The WWE had some smart booking giving Otunga a chance to shine with the WWE champion. I know the champ has to look strong and getting revenge is all fine and well with me. Otunga needs to take his lumps and can't look to strong against Cena. I still couldn't careless about Batista and Cena. The booking hasn't been terrible or anything like that. I don't like either men so I am not interested in who wins or loses.
I have been reading reports that Triple H has been dealing with an injured neck since the Elimination Chamber pay per view. I assume that is why we haven't seen much of Triple H on Raw and been getting a lot of promos by Sheamus. Perhaps Sheamus will "injure" Triple H at Extreme Rules and Kofi will get a real feud with The Irish Ghost. As opposed to last week, Kofi was very much in the match with Sheamus. I was happy to see them use Kofi correctly this week. Sheamus had to use a monitor to stop Kofi. Kofi can now stay off Raw until the week after Extreme Rules and start a feud with Sheamus or go to Smackdown on draft night.
Raw has had to much Hoff tonight. I was ok with the opener and a backstage segment. The Diva Baywatch match was going a little to far. I was happy to see Santino get a part on Raw tonight. I normally hate the comedy segments of Raw. However, I don't know how you couldn't laugh at Hornswaggle running in slow motion. The WWE got me to laugh my ass off.
One year ago, Randy Orton was the most hated man on WWE television and Batista was one of the more popular wrestlers. My how things can change in one year. Randy is now becoming one of the faces in all the WWE and Batista is a giant tool. I know Batista was a giant tool a year ago, some fans weren't aware of it until now. The WWE gave us a solid main event with Batista and Orton. The match was pay per view quality in my opinion. It shows how good Orton is when he can get Batista to have a good match. The ending was perfect because Swagger needs to start looking strong if he is to face Orton at Extreme Rules. Cena got the last word which means next week Batista will get the upper hand going into the Last Man Standing match.
Raw was a solid show tonight. We finally have a World Heavyweight championship match set for Extreme Rules. The Diva title changed hands if anyone cared. I liked Evan and Carlito getting a quality match. No Triple H but that didn't hurt the feud with Sheamus since he destroyed Kofi after a good match. WWE needed to step it up with the wrestling part of Raw. I believe they did that tonight. My only gripe is where was Christian and Teddy? I can't have everything. I will be back later in the week for another blog about a certain superstar. Along with that be sure to check out Wasp, who is been doing a great job, TNA blog and of course the ever controversial Showstoppers wrestling radio show.
J Call
I don't love the Hoff as much as the United Kingdom. I do love Knight Rider. He did look like he was having a lot of fun which is something some celebrities fail to do. I love having Randy Orton go against Swagger at Extreme Rules. The draft is coming up so either Swagger or Orton will be heading to Smackdown. I think we know Orton isn't going anywhere. He's the best wrestler and character on Raw.
I liked Raw starting with the Diva title match. I said last week I am very close to stop writing about the Diva division. The match wasn't to long which isn't always a good thing especially when its a title match. I am not a big fan of Eve either. I liked the reversal on the DDT for the pin. I still think Maryse and Gail Kim would be a better feud. I won't complain to much since Maryse lost her title in a match instead of opening up a lock box.
Dare I say it? The Miz is the hottest rising star in the WWE. I can think of plenty of tag teams better than ShowMiz and one of them would be the Hart Foundation. I didn't think the WWE was going to keep Bret around. I am glad they did to help the Hart Dynasty. The Miz did have some sweet lines to Bret. The tag team division needs a push and this is the perfect way to do it. The two most established tag teams should be facing off each other and having them on both shows makes it even more special. I was impressed by D.H. Smith. He and Miz had a nice competitive match. I have to say I was shocked Miz picked up the victory. The champs stay on a roll. I do think we will see the Hart Dynasty end up facing ShowMiz at Extreme Rules.
I liked giving guys like Carlito and Evan an opportunity on Raw. Two mid carders who work hard and can have good matches. I thought the speed of the match could have been a little faster. The outcome was perfect with Air Bourne. Evan nails it perfectly every time. He is a guy who would be perfect for the U.S title or at least be feuding for it. I will continue to bitch about the United State championship until it is used correctly on Raw.
The WWE had some smart booking giving Otunga a chance to shine with the WWE champion. I know the champ has to look strong and getting revenge is all fine and well with me. Otunga needs to take his lumps and can't look to strong against Cena. I still couldn't careless about Batista and Cena. The booking hasn't been terrible or anything like that. I don't like either men so I am not interested in who wins or loses.
I have been reading reports that Triple H has been dealing with an injured neck since the Elimination Chamber pay per view. I assume that is why we haven't seen much of Triple H on Raw and been getting a lot of promos by Sheamus. Perhaps Sheamus will "injure" Triple H at Extreme Rules and Kofi will get a real feud with The Irish Ghost. As opposed to last week, Kofi was very much in the match with Sheamus. I was happy to see them use Kofi correctly this week. Sheamus had to use a monitor to stop Kofi. Kofi can now stay off Raw until the week after Extreme Rules and start a feud with Sheamus or go to Smackdown on draft night.
Raw has had to much Hoff tonight. I was ok with the opener and a backstage segment. The Diva Baywatch match was going a little to far. I was happy to see Santino get a part on Raw tonight. I normally hate the comedy segments of Raw. However, I don't know how you couldn't laugh at Hornswaggle running in slow motion. The WWE got me to laugh my ass off.
One year ago, Randy Orton was the most hated man on WWE television and Batista was one of the more popular wrestlers. My how things can change in one year. Randy is now becoming one of the faces in all the WWE and Batista is a giant tool. I know Batista was a giant tool a year ago, some fans weren't aware of it until now. The WWE gave us a solid main event with Batista and Orton. The match was pay per view quality in my opinion. It shows how good Orton is when he can get Batista to have a good match. The ending was perfect because Swagger needs to start looking strong if he is to face Orton at Extreme Rules. Cena got the last word which means next week Batista will get the upper hand going into the Last Man Standing match.
Raw was a solid show tonight. We finally have a World Heavyweight championship match set for Extreme Rules. The Diva title changed hands if anyone cared. I liked Evan and Carlito getting a quality match. No Triple H but that didn't hurt the feud with Sheamus since he destroyed Kofi after a good match. WWE needed to step it up with the wrestling part of Raw. I believe they did that tonight. My only gripe is where was Christian and Teddy? I can't have everything. I will be back later in the week for another blog about a certain superstar. Along with that be sure to check out Wasp, who is been doing a great job, TNA blog and of course the ever controversial Showstoppers wrestling radio show.
J Call
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Faithful Phil
The Masters is the start of spring for me. The annual event is the best golf has to offer. The Augusta course is the most beautiful course on the entire tour. I love sitting down in my chair and enjoy the stories told on the golf course. From old man Watson, Fred Couples, Tiger Woods and of course Phil Mickelson. The media focused on Tiger and all he has overcome in the past months. They forgot about one of the most faithful men in all of golf. Phil's wife and mother have cancer and he has been at their side the whole time. Phil's story is the true feel good story of golf even if some people have forgotten all about it.
Phil Mickelson has given all golf fans some classic meltdown moments and in the past few years some glorious triumphs. The Masters has been one of the best courses for Phil. I wrote about how I watched his first major title in a blog I wrote last year. Phil has always been the good guy and as the saying goes 'nice guys finish last.' Phil was that guy for several years. He could never win the big one until 2004. Now he is on a list of great golfers for winning his third green jacket.
Phil worked his butt off to get back to the point where he could play well and be competitive. I remember worrying about Phil when his wife was diagnosed with cancer. I remember thinking what a huge obstacle to overcome. Phil has been the faithful family man in a time when the media would rather talk about the downfalls of others. The better story here is a guy willing to do anything for his family. The Masters proved the good guy doesn't always have to be last. The competition certainly didn't make it easy for him.
The final round was full of twists and turns. Lee Westwood came in as the leader, Tiger was in the hunt and Anthony Kim was making a late charge up the leader board. I couldn't help but pull for Fred Couples as he played a great front nine. All of that didn't matter as the steady man on Sunday was Phil. He kept making pars on the front nine to stay on top. The back nine, much like Saturdays incredible minus 5 in three holes, was where Phil made sure the tournament was his to win.
One of the reasons I love sports so much is because of moments like the 2010 Masters. The walk on eighteen for Phil had to be one of the most fulfilling in recent years. He won his first major by making birdie on eighteen. Phil didn't need the birdie but that's what he made to win his third. His wife, Amy had been in Augusta all week on bed rest because of her illness. Amy must be strong willed since she made it to the 18th green to meet her champion. The tears trickled down both Phil and Amy's face as they embraced each other in front of the Augusta faithful. What a moment to remember from the 2010 Masters.
J Call
Phil Mickelson has given all golf fans some classic meltdown moments and in the past few years some glorious triumphs. The Masters has been one of the best courses for Phil. I wrote about how I watched his first major title in a blog I wrote last year. Phil has always been the good guy and as the saying goes 'nice guys finish last.' Phil was that guy for several years. He could never win the big one until 2004. Now he is on a list of great golfers for winning his third green jacket.
Phil worked his butt off to get back to the point where he could play well and be competitive. I remember worrying about Phil when his wife was diagnosed with cancer. I remember thinking what a huge obstacle to overcome. Phil has been the faithful family man in a time when the media would rather talk about the downfalls of others. The better story here is a guy willing to do anything for his family. The Masters proved the good guy doesn't always have to be last. The competition certainly didn't make it easy for him.
The final round was full of twists and turns. Lee Westwood came in as the leader, Tiger was in the hunt and Anthony Kim was making a late charge up the leader board. I couldn't help but pull for Fred Couples as he played a great front nine. All of that didn't matter as the steady man on Sunday was Phil. He kept making pars on the front nine to stay on top. The back nine, much like Saturdays incredible minus 5 in three holes, was where Phil made sure the tournament was his to win.
One of the reasons I love sports so much is because of moments like the 2010 Masters. The walk on eighteen for Phil had to be one of the most fulfilling in recent years. He won his first major by making birdie on eighteen. Phil didn't need the birdie but that's what he made to win his third. His wife, Amy had been in Augusta all week on bed rest because of her illness. Amy must be strong willed since she made it to the 18th green to meet her champion. The tears trickled down both Phil and Amy's face as they embraced each other in front of the Augusta faithful. What a moment to remember from the 2010 Masters.
J Call
Monday, April 5, 2010
Raw 4-5
The WWE will never let me down when it comes to story lines. The Swagger segment last week on Raw was great and could have been a continuing theme. In one week, the WWE screwed everything up. Swagger is now the World Heavyweight Champion on Smackdown. I'm stuck watching Cena and Batista on Raw for the WWE title. Luckily, Randy Orton saves me every week on Raw. Tonight, one of the NXT guys, David Otunga gets to show off his skills as the GM of Raw. I want to see how Sheamus and HHH will keep their momentum going. Also, the whole show needs to keep the momentum going after a solid week.
I don't always have something to talk about in the first paragraph and you would think I said enough last week on my Monday Night War blog. I need to say something about the upcoming pay per view, Extreme Rules. The WWE started all of these gimmick shows because they wanted to have a different feel to their shows. I think it was a great idea and has worked with some concepts. Extreme Rules was the one gimmick show I looked forward to because I like the hardcore matches. The WWE has gone all PG on us now. My question is how the hell is Extreme Rules going to be different with no blood and no chair shots to the head? I understand the chair shots to the head because that is very dangerous. In contrast, a suplex is dangerous. The WWE didn't need to go from one (pardon the pun) extreme to another. I like a little blood and any no DQ or no holds barred match is going to feel weak on the show without it. Come on WWE, give us what we want to see!! Even if it is for one night only.
I may not have liked how it happened with Swagger becoming the World Heavyweight Championship, I do like the WWE giving the young talent the push. Swagger looked the part on Raw with a very elegant suit. I understand having Cena come out and even Orton. I didn't fully understand why the tag champs came out. I will say Otunga has quite a bit of charisma. I liked the match with Orton and Swagger. I don't like Cena and Batista tagging up. We have seen that to many times and my bet is Batista walks out during the match. The ending to the segment really pissed me off. Orton is the hottest star and is getting everyone to cheer for him. Cena is the biggest face and all the kids get behind him. You don't have Orton try and RKO him. You don't to keep the kids liking Orton. I swear the WWE will screw up the easiest face turn in history because Vince doesn't want a star bigger than Cena.
Speaking of screwing pushes up, Kofi Kingston has been buried since the Orton feud. He gets a match with the hottest Raw up and comer, Sheamus. I'm not sure what Kofi did to have his luck turn the other way. I hope he gets to go to Smackdown during the draft. It's clear Raw will never use him correctly. Kofi wasn't even competitive in the match. I like Sheamus and his push. I also know that he can be effective and pushed without burying other mid card wrestlers. I hope after Sheamus's attack to Kofi with a pipe, leads to a hiatus for Kofi so he can rebuild his character.
The best thing about Shawn being gone is no more DX. You hate me for saying that I know. I like "The Game" and "The Cerebral Assassin". Triple H is back to the attitude era old school Triple H. The feud continues to be one of the best on Raw in quite sometime. The match at Extreme Rules should be a falls count anywhere, then they can use their weapon of choice and beat the crap out of each other around the arena.
The Divas get another stupid ass gimmick battle royal. The WWE keeps showing how they have no damn clue what to do with their women. Gail Kim should have been the winner. Maryse and Kim have yet to have a solid match that last a long time. Eve isn't worth the Diva title. I think it is almost time for me to stop writing about the Divas on Raw altogether.
David Otunga does have a bright future in the WWE. He has a good look, mic skills and charisma. The thing is the whole I'm better than you persona will only last for a while. I guess fans will always boo him when he talks crap like that. Daniel Bryan has the best future on the NXT roster. The guy can flat out wrestle. He hasn't had a chance to showcase the mic skills. He showed in the first week against Chris Jericho that he is a keeper.
I thought the WWE was going to start pushing the Harty Dynasty and have them with feud with the tag champs. No continuation on Smackdown after the champs walked away last week on Raw. Cryme tyme broke up on Smackdown to take away another tag team in the WWE. The WWE does the complete opposite of what they use to do with the tag belts. The established tag teams on the roster could be counted on one hand. ShowMiz, Hart Dynasty, Morrison and Truth and the two youngsters Trent and Croft. The WWE needs to bring in some actual tag teams and start establishing them. I called Batista walking out and I have a feeling Otunga won't be a great partner for Cena either.
I love Dibiase bringing back the Million Dollar belt. Teddy is going to start getting major heat by running down his dad. He seems to be honing his skills on the mic. I wrote about how Christian and Dibiase should be feuding for the US title last week. If the feud can get a little personal and maybe Dibiase will put up the Million Dollar belt, I would like to see the Christian Dibiase feud continue. The two matches so far have been very competitive and entertaining. Since after Raw they are tied at one win a piece, it only makes sense to have a rubber match at Extreme Rules.
The World Heavyweight Champion Jack Swagger is hard to fathom. He should have a match with both Edge and Jericho at Extreme Rules. If the WWE wants to make him look like a strong champion, having him defeat Jericho, Orton and then Jericho and Edge in the same match in a matter of weeks is a giant first step. I wish Swagger had some different in ring attire. He looks to much like Kurt Angle. Orton and Swagger put on another quality in ring contest. I would have liked to see Swagger win. He could have cheated to win and wouldn't have hurt Orton. Either way, the match was a great match and could we possibly seeing Orton leave Raw soon when the draft comes around.
The tag champs out twice and Cena three times. I guess the WWE knows how much I love Cena. ShowMiz has started to get over with the crowd and being looked at as a legit tag team. I think it would be wise to get the US title off of Miz though. Isn't there a claus that says you have to defend your title after so many weeks? You would think Miz is getting close to that deadline. The belt means nothing when he is used only as a tag team champion. I knew Otunga would leave Cena hanging. Both times were to predictable. Batista with the Batista bomb and the stipulation for their match at Extreme Rules. They will be having a last man standing match. I like the stipulation if Cena weren't in the same match one year ago with Edge. Batista was in a cage last year so that should have been ruled out as well. The problem is with all these gimmick pay per views, the stipulation matches are going to get stale. I hope it's the send off for the damn feud.
Another week where I will shake my head a little bit. We got some great in ring performances by Orton Swagger and Dibiase Christian in their matches. However, we didn't see MVP or Bourne. I guess I can't have everything. I don't care for David Hasselhoff hosting next week. I understand why he is the host since the WWE will be in London. I wonder if Regal will win the US title. He always wins something when he is over there. Be sure to check out the TNA blog by Wasp on the blog page. Also Showstoppers will be back for another week of quality wrestling talk. I will be taking the rest of the week off. I will catch you next week for another Raw blog.
J Call
I don't always have something to talk about in the first paragraph and you would think I said enough last week on my Monday Night War blog. I need to say something about the upcoming pay per view, Extreme Rules. The WWE started all of these gimmick shows because they wanted to have a different feel to their shows. I think it was a great idea and has worked with some concepts. Extreme Rules was the one gimmick show I looked forward to because I like the hardcore matches. The WWE has gone all PG on us now. My question is how the hell is Extreme Rules going to be different with no blood and no chair shots to the head? I understand the chair shots to the head because that is very dangerous. In contrast, a suplex is dangerous. The WWE didn't need to go from one (pardon the pun) extreme to another. I like a little blood and any no DQ or no holds barred match is going to feel weak on the show without it. Come on WWE, give us what we want to see!! Even if it is for one night only.
I may not have liked how it happened with Swagger becoming the World Heavyweight Championship, I do like the WWE giving the young talent the push. Swagger looked the part on Raw with a very elegant suit. I understand having Cena come out and even Orton. I didn't fully understand why the tag champs came out. I will say Otunga has quite a bit of charisma. I liked the match with Orton and Swagger. I don't like Cena and Batista tagging up. We have seen that to many times and my bet is Batista walks out during the match. The ending to the segment really pissed me off. Orton is the hottest star and is getting everyone to cheer for him. Cena is the biggest face and all the kids get behind him. You don't have Orton try and RKO him. You don't to keep the kids liking Orton. I swear the WWE will screw up the easiest face turn in history because Vince doesn't want a star bigger than Cena.
Speaking of screwing pushes up, Kofi Kingston has been buried since the Orton feud. He gets a match with the hottest Raw up and comer, Sheamus. I'm not sure what Kofi did to have his luck turn the other way. I hope he gets to go to Smackdown during the draft. It's clear Raw will never use him correctly. Kofi wasn't even competitive in the match. I like Sheamus and his push. I also know that he can be effective and pushed without burying other mid card wrestlers. I hope after Sheamus's attack to Kofi with a pipe, leads to a hiatus for Kofi so he can rebuild his character.
The best thing about Shawn being gone is no more DX. You hate me for saying that I know. I like "The Game" and "The Cerebral Assassin". Triple H is back to the attitude era old school Triple H. The feud continues to be one of the best on Raw in quite sometime. The match at Extreme Rules should be a falls count anywhere, then they can use their weapon of choice and beat the crap out of each other around the arena.
The Divas get another stupid ass gimmick battle royal. The WWE keeps showing how they have no damn clue what to do with their women. Gail Kim should have been the winner. Maryse and Kim have yet to have a solid match that last a long time. Eve isn't worth the Diva title. I think it is almost time for me to stop writing about the Divas on Raw altogether.
David Otunga does have a bright future in the WWE. He has a good look, mic skills and charisma. The thing is the whole I'm better than you persona will only last for a while. I guess fans will always boo him when he talks crap like that. Daniel Bryan has the best future on the NXT roster. The guy can flat out wrestle. He hasn't had a chance to showcase the mic skills. He showed in the first week against Chris Jericho that he is a keeper.
I thought the WWE was going to start pushing the Harty Dynasty and have them with feud with the tag champs. No continuation on Smackdown after the champs walked away last week on Raw. Cryme tyme broke up on Smackdown to take away another tag team in the WWE. The WWE does the complete opposite of what they use to do with the tag belts. The established tag teams on the roster could be counted on one hand. ShowMiz, Hart Dynasty, Morrison and Truth and the two youngsters Trent and Croft. The WWE needs to bring in some actual tag teams and start establishing them. I called Batista walking out and I have a feeling Otunga won't be a great partner for Cena either.
I love Dibiase bringing back the Million Dollar belt. Teddy is going to start getting major heat by running down his dad. He seems to be honing his skills on the mic. I wrote about how Christian and Dibiase should be feuding for the US title last week. If the feud can get a little personal and maybe Dibiase will put up the Million Dollar belt, I would like to see the Christian Dibiase feud continue. The two matches so far have been very competitive and entertaining. Since after Raw they are tied at one win a piece, it only makes sense to have a rubber match at Extreme Rules.
The World Heavyweight Champion Jack Swagger is hard to fathom. He should have a match with both Edge and Jericho at Extreme Rules. If the WWE wants to make him look like a strong champion, having him defeat Jericho, Orton and then Jericho and Edge in the same match in a matter of weeks is a giant first step. I wish Swagger had some different in ring attire. He looks to much like Kurt Angle. Orton and Swagger put on another quality in ring contest. I would have liked to see Swagger win. He could have cheated to win and wouldn't have hurt Orton. Either way, the match was a great match and could we possibly seeing Orton leave Raw soon when the draft comes around.
The tag champs out twice and Cena three times. I guess the WWE knows how much I love Cena. ShowMiz has started to get over with the crowd and being looked at as a legit tag team. I think it would be wise to get the US title off of Miz though. Isn't there a claus that says you have to defend your title after so many weeks? You would think Miz is getting close to that deadline. The belt means nothing when he is used only as a tag team champion. I knew Otunga would leave Cena hanging. Both times were to predictable. Batista with the Batista bomb and the stipulation for their match at Extreme Rules. They will be having a last man standing match. I like the stipulation if Cena weren't in the same match one year ago with Edge. Batista was in a cage last year so that should have been ruled out as well. The problem is with all these gimmick pay per views, the stipulation matches are going to get stale. I hope it's the send off for the damn feud.
Another week where I will shake my head a little bit. We got some great in ring performances by Orton Swagger and Dibiase Christian in their matches. However, we didn't see MVP or Bourne. I guess I can't have everything. I don't care for David Hasselhoff hosting next week. I understand why he is the host since the WWE will be in London. I wonder if Regal will win the US title. He always wins something when he is over there. Be sure to check out the TNA blog by Wasp on the blog page. Also Showstoppers will be back for another week of quality wrestling talk. I will be taking the rest of the week off. I will catch you next week for another Raw blog.
J Call
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Monday Night War.. Not Yet
It has been a long time since I pulled off the double header. My fellow BBSD bloggers and radio hosts have been talking about this non sense about a Monday night war that is going on right now. I know the guys on BBSD are smart but they are jumping to some great conclusions. Wrestling fans have been dreaming of a War to start ever since WCW was bought out over nine years ago. The WWE has had a monopoly over the wrestling world. Enter TNA. They have been doing some serious work, trying to start the new war. The truth is this war has not begun.
Before I tell you exactly why this MNW (Monday Night War) has not happened yet. I want to take a trip back to 1997. For years, WCW had only a Saturday night show on TBS. Once Ted Turner decided to put up some big money into his wrestling promotion, WCW hit the big time. The move to Monday night along with Eric Bischoff's mind, history of the wrestling promotion and the biggest name in wrestling history, Hulk Hogan combined to shock the wrestling world. The ratings every week were huge. If you add Nitro and Raw's numbers, they were pulling in between 10 to 14 million people each and every week to their programs. The wrestling business was at the top of the pop culture world. Hogan had good years with the promotion and a number of other headliners along with several hard working mid carders made one hell of a wrestling promotion. We know what happened after a while. WCW had no focus and no control over their main event stars. Ted Turner decided to sell the company and Vince defeated his competition.
Now TNA has decided to do go to war with the WWE. They have Eric Bischoff, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and some talented mid card wrestlers. Does this sound familiar? TNA has a chance if they were to have Vince McMahon's brain. Say what you want about the product of the WWE, Vince knows how to make stars in the wrestling world. TNA is full of wrestlers who made their name in Vince's world. Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, X-Pac, Jeff Hardy and Hogan all made it big in the WWE. TNA would be smart to showcase some of this talent and keep the other ones off the damn television. Kevin Nash has nothing to give the wrestling world any longer and neither does Pac or Hall. Jeff Hardy is a guy you can build around. The biggest issue is Jeff Hardy has always been on the cusp of being a great wrestler. Only when Vince had his hand on Jeff's story, did Jeff take off like a rocket ship. WCW took away all the talent Vince felt he didn't need any longer. TNA is doing the exact same thing.
I am not going to write about how TNA is turning into WCW, I am making comparisons. TNA has a few things going for them like the X-Division and the Knockout division. TNA knows how to put on a great women's match and their young high flyers can deliver a stellar five star wrestling match. The writing is what has to be great for TNA to start seeing increases in the so called War. Vince is a great story teller when he wants to be. TNA has yet to shine in this department. I have not seen a story being told on TNA that has made me want to switch and make sure I catch it. Now, I know I am a little biased because I am the WWE writer on BBSD. I did watch WCW more often in the old war because they had good story lines for a while. TNA has to do something that is not only going to grab the attention of the wrestling world but also the pop culture world.
Perhaps that is the biggest hump both companies have in front of them. The WWE has been using celebrity guest hosts for months and only a few times did it help their ratings. If you look at the Nielsen ratings, they are no where near what wrestling was bringing in back in the late 90's. Why is this? Pop culture changes constantly. The wrestling fans during the first war are watching MMA or grew tired of the wrestling product. Raw has roughly four million people watching every week. TNA has around a million or so watching every week. I have no idea how either wrestling promotion is going to draw in a brand new crowd. TNA has to hope they can pull some of the die hard WWE fans away. I look at it as your preferred soft drink of choice. I like Pepsi products and always have. If I like the product, why would I ever change and switch to Coca-Cola? Coke would have to give me a real reason and if they keep doing the same thing, I won't be changing a damn thing. TNA has to do something completely different for either the WWE fans to switch their weekly habits or gain a brand new audience of wrestling fans. A brand new audience is harder with all the choices people have to watch on their television.
TNA doesn't have the rich history WCW had. TNA has to start going nation wide and show off their own talent. TNA Impact would mean more if it wasn't inside a puny building every week. TNA has to go all in much like WCW. Tour the world but not in the same area as the WWE. Promote yourself as being a different product with your own unique wrestlers. TNA also have to stop using anything WWE related. Abyss is using Hogan's WWE Hall of Fame ring for power. You're telling me that the ring of the opposing wrestling promotion has some great power on one of your bigger stars. Ok that makes complete sense. No mention of the WWE ever!
The battle is certainly an up hill climb. The real Monday Night War shot has not been fired yet. I believe it can happen and would be the best thing for the business. We need to give it some time before we start touting wins and loses every week. WWE is the established brand and TNA is the new comer. TNA can start to throw some body blows and see if they can rattle the champion. Hopefully in one year, I will be writing another blog entitled Monday Night Wars II Bigger than Ever.
J Call
Before I tell you exactly why this MNW (Monday Night War) has not happened yet. I want to take a trip back to 1997. For years, WCW had only a Saturday night show on TBS. Once Ted Turner decided to put up some big money into his wrestling promotion, WCW hit the big time. The move to Monday night along with Eric Bischoff's mind, history of the wrestling promotion and the biggest name in wrestling history, Hulk Hogan combined to shock the wrestling world. The ratings every week were huge. If you add Nitro and Raw's numbers, they were pulling in between 10 to 14 million people each and every week to their programs. The wrestling business was at the top of the pop culture world. Hogan had good years with the promotion and a number of other headliners along with several hard working mid carders made one hell of a wrestling promotion. We know what happened after a while. WCW had no focus and no control over their main event stars. Ted Turner decided to sell the company and Vince defeated his competition.
Now TNA has decided to do go to war with the WWE. They have Eric Bischoff, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and some talented mid card wrestlers. Does this sound familiar? TNA has a chance if they were to have Vince McMahon's brain. Say what you want about the product of the WWE, Vince knows how to make stars in the wrestling world. TNA is full of wrestlers who made their name in Vince's world. Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, X-Pac, Jeff Hardy and Hogan all made it big in the WWE. TNA would be smart to showcase some of this talent and keep the other ones off the damn television. Kevin Nash has nothing to give the wrestling world any longer and neither does Pac or Hall. Jeff Hardy is a guy you can build around. The biggest issue is Jeff Hardy has always been on the cusp of being a great wrestler. Only when Vince had his hand on Jeff's story, did Jeff take off like a rocket ship. WCW took away all the talent Vince felt he didn't need any longer. TNA is doing the exact same thing.
I am not going to write about how TNA is turning into WCW, I am making comparisons. TNA has a few things going for them like the X-Division and the Knockout division. TNA knows how to put on a great women's match and their young high flyers can deliver a stellar five star wrestling match. The writing is what has to be great for TNA to start seeing increases in the so called War. Vince is a great story teller when he wants to be. TNA has yet to shine in this department. I have not seen a story being told on TNA that has made me want to switch and make sure I catch it. Now, I know I am a little biased because I am the WWE writer on BBSD. I did watch WCW more often in the old war because they had good story lines for a while. TNA has to do something that is not only going to grab the attention of the wrestling world but also the pop culture world.
Perhaps that is the biggest hump both companies have in front of them. The WWE has been using celebrity guest hosts for months and only a few times did it help their ratings. If you look at the Nielsen ratings, they are no where near what wrestling was bringing in back in the late 90's. Why is this? Pop culture changes constantly. The wrestling fans during the first war are watching MMA or grew tired of the wrestling product. Raw has roughly four million people watching every week. TNA has around a million or so watching every week. I have no idea how either wrestling promotion is going to draw in a brand new crowd. TNA has to hope they can pull some of the die hard WWE fans away. I look at it as your preferred soft drink of choice. I like Pepsi products and always have. If I like the product, why would I ever change and switch to Coca-Cola? Coke would have to give me a real reason and if they keep doing the same thing, I won't be changing a damn thing. TNA has to do something completely different for either the WWE fans to switch their weekly habits or gain a brand new audience of wrestling fans. A brand new audience is harder with all the choices people have to watch on their television.
TNA doesn't have the rich history WCW had. TNA has to start going nation wide and show off their own talent. TNA Impact would mean more if it wasn't inside a puny building every week. TNA has to go all in much like WCW. Tour the world but not in the same area as the WWE. Promote yourself as being a different product with your own unique wrestlers. TNA also have to stop using anything WWE related. Abyss is using Hogan's WWE Hall of Fame ring for power. You're telling me that the ring of the opposing wrestling promotion has some great power on one of your bigger stars. Ok that makes complete sense. No mention of the WWE ever!
The battle is certainly an up hill climb. The real Monday Night War shot has not been fired yet. I believe it can happen and would be the best thing for the business. We need to give it some time before we start touting wins and loses every week. WWE is the established brand and TNA is the new comer. TNA can start to throw some body blows and see if they can rattle the champion. Hopefully in one year, I will be writing another blog entitled Monday Night Wars II Bigger than Ever.
J Call
The Dead Zone
I think most people already know I am a huge Oakland Raider fan since I have written about them several different times. If you want to know what being a Raider fan is like, watch Weekend at Bernies and Groundhog Day at the same time. Same thing happens every year only a dead guy is running the show. I wanted to write about the speculations of McNabb becoming a Raider. He was on the main page of BBSD yesterday and he wants to go anywhere but Oakland. I have been on many Raider websites and message boards and for the most part every fan is ready for McNabb to be in Oakland. I know it's hard to believe but I am in the minority again.
First off, I have to say I like McNabb a lot. I talked about him last year on John and I's Sports show because I wanted McNabb to be the quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings. Furthermore, I wrote my very first blog on McNabb and how the fans of Philly didn't deserve him. I still believe that to this day. My opinion about Donovan has not wavered in the slightest. He's an excellent leader and has become an All-Star in the NFL. Oakland would be very lucky to have him and perhaps teach the biggest bust since Ryan Leaf, Jamarcus Russell about what it takes to be a great QB in the NFL.
The biggest problem with the trade is if he doesn't want to be there then don't bring him in. I don't know many players stepping up and telling Crazy Al to sign them unless they want to steal more money from Al. If you are not fully commited to something, the effort suffers. McNabb isn't commited to "just win baby" because you don't win in Oakland. He wants to go somewhere he can actually win games and even a chance for a championship. I believe Donovan has a chance to do all that in several locations. I don't have Oakland on that list. The best places McNabb could go is Arizona, Minnesota and Carolina. Yes, I have Carolina on my list. You can laugh all you want. The team doesn't have a QB right now that should be starting in the NFL. I am not sold on McCown or Matt Moore. Minnesota won't do anything because they are playing the Favre game. I can see Arizona making that leap since Leinhart hasn't proved anything. Matt has been stuck behind a Hall of Fame QB, Kurt Warner, I don't care about that. I can't see Leinhart doing anything except sucking next year.
I know McNabb's contract is worry some for owners. He has only one year left and who knows if there will be an NFL season next year. He would be one and done in Oakland or he would be franchise tagged by Mr. Davis. Now, depending on where you read reports, an early second round pick can get you McNabb. Are the Raiders ever smart with their draft picks? No, not even close. If they were, they would trade the 8th pick and move down and add another 1st round pick for next years. It won't happen because it's a great move. I know one thing is certain, the Raiders won't make any great or even good moves between now and the draft.
As a Raider fan, having McNabb would be fun. I even wrote about a scenario where Oakland traded a 2nd and a 5th for McNabb in my Black Hole blog back in January. He would be a huge upgrade for the team. He could bring leadership and fill the biggest need Oakland has had since Rich Gannon. The reason my opinion has changed is because I don't want him to suffer. Donovan is a good player with only a few years left. He shouldn't suffer those remaining good years. I would feel bad as opposed to when Moss was a Raider and bitched the entire time. I didn't feel bad for Moss because he is a bitch. I think if McNabb were to be traded, he would try and make it work. The thing is the situation won't work. Oakland is beyond the Dead Zone of the NFL.
J Call
First off, I have to say I like McNabb a lot. I talked about him last year on John and I's Sports show because I wanted McNabb to be the quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings. Furthermore, I wrote my very first blog on McNabb and how the fans of Philly didn't deserve him. I still believe that to this day. My opinion about Donovan has not wavered in the slightest. He's an excellent leader and has become an All-Star in the NFL. Oakland would be very lucky to have him and perhaps teach the biggest bust since Ryan Leaf, Jamarcus Russell about what it takes to be a great QB in the NFL.
The biggest problem with the trade is if he doesn't want to be there then don't bring him in. I don't know many players stepping up and telling Crazy Al to sign them unless they want to steal more money from Al. If you are not fully commited to something, the effort suffers. McNabb isn't commited to "just win baby" because you don't win in Oakland. He wants to go somewhere he can actually win games and even a chance for a championship. I believe Donovan has a chance to do all that in several locations. I don't have Oakland on that list. The best places McNabb could go is Arizona, Minnesota and Carolina. Yes, I have Carolina on my list. You can laugh all you want. The team doesn't have a QB right now that should be starting in the NFL. I am not sold on McCown or Matt Moore. Minnesota won't do anything because they are playing the Favre game. I can see Arizona making that leap since Leinhart hasn't proved anything. Matt has been stuck behind a Hall of Fame QB, Kurt Warner, I don't care about that. I can't see Leinhart doing anything except sucking next year.
I know McNabb's contract is worry some for owners. He has only one year left and who knows if there will be an NFL season next year. He would be one and done in Oakland or he would be franchise tagged by Mr. Davis. Now, depending on where you read reports, an early second round pick can get you McNabb. Are the Raiders ever smart with their draft picks? No, not even close. If they were, they would trade the 8th pick and move down and add another 1st round pick for next years. It won't happen because it's a great move. I know one thing is certain, the Raiders won't make any great or even good moves between now and the draft.
As a Raider fan, having McNabb would be fun. I even wrote about a scenario where Oakland traded a 2nd and a 5th for McNabb in my Black Hole blog back in January. He would be a huge upgrade for the team. He could bring leadership and fill the biggest need Oakland has had since Rich Gannon. The reason my opinion has changed is because I don't want him to suffer. Donovan is a good player with only a few years left. He shouldn't suffer those remaining good years. I would feel bad as opposed to when Moss was a Raider and bitched the entire time. I didn't feel bad for Moss because he is a bitch. I think if McNabb were to be traded, he would try and make it work. The thing is the situation won't work. Oakland is beyond the Dead Zone of the NFL.
J Call
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