The IS Team would like to dedicate an entire thread to SPORTS!
All sports, any sports, and your favourite teams, players, events. The world is chock-full of different sports from darts to cricket, football to soccer, baseball to equestrian events. Use this thread to talk about sports you watch, those you play or maybe would like to play, some huge rivalry in a major league sport, even an upcoming event in your place in the world.
Whether you're a NASCAR fan (like me!) or you follow Formula One racing, this is the thread for you!
Remember, no hitting below the belt, no swearing, no name calling, and no bad manners!
Let the games begin...
Full Version: Sports!
I'm sure most of you have heard of Lance Armstrong. His is an athlete of cycling, who became famous through his victories in Tour de France, an athletic competition that takes place every year in France. Le Tour de France is a very big event for French people, since it's been a traditional sport for many years, if not decades, and the athletes who win have gained great fame. However, Armstrong is the most known athlete to compete in it. The reasons for it are various: he has won seven times, he has never been tested positive in doping, and the most important, he has beaten cancer, created an organization for the fight against cancer, and has competed again, after this grave illness.
According to this article, Lance Armstrong, despite his age, plans on participating again in the next Tour de France. He states that the age isn't really as a great matter as people believe.
What do you think about this athlete? I have heard many things about him, and I really admire his persistence and strength, especially after defeating this horrible illness. Doesn't he set a good example for every athlete out there?
According to this article, Lance Armstrong, despite his age, plans on participating again in the next Tour de France. He states that the age isn't really as a great matter as people believe.
What do you think about this athlete? I have heard many things about him, and I really admire his persistence and strength, especially after defeating this horrible illness. Doesn't he set a good example for every athlete out there?
Yes, I have heard of Lance Armstrong and I've watched him on t.v. while participating in the Tour de France various times.
I honestly didn't know he was going to start cycling professionally again until just now! That's so exciting! He sets a great example for all athletes and really anybody. By defeating cancer he's shown how strong he is and how strong anybody can be. He inspires so many people to try their hardest by his dedication and strength. Anybody who sees him or his story can't deny that he is a really strong person. I'm so excited that he's going to be cycling professionally again!
I honestly didn't know he was going to start cycling professionally again until just now! That's so exciting! He sets a great example for all athletes and really anybody. By defeating cancer he's shown how strong he is and how strong anybody can be. He inspires so many people to try their hardest by his dedication and strength. Anybody who sees him or his story can't deny that he is a really strong person. I'm so excited that he's going to be cycling professionally again!
Yes, I have heard of Lance Armstrong, but unfortuantely, I'm not a huge fan of cycling. I just don't really find that particualr sport interesting.
I would like to bring up another athlete, though. He's very well known, and I think that he deserves some praise, comments, concerns, and otherwise. Michael Phelps. Heard of him? Yes, I thought so.
About him:
Now, here's the Wikipedia site on him. A point I would like to bring up is his diet! 12,000 calories a day! That's about 6 times as many calories as the recommended diet for a regular person is. I don't really have the time to list all of the foods that he has, even for breakfast! It's completely crazy, it seems. The thing is, he is a swimmer. I did the swim team for 5 years, and you do have to eat more than the average person if you really work hard at the sport. Even just the swimming I did, I had to eat 5,000 calories a day, and that seemed like way too much for me. Imagine 12,000!
Another and more obvious thing: His Olympic records. He beat Mark Spitz's record of seven gold medals in one Olympic competition (if you can put it that way... I should say that he got it over a period of days, as did Michael Phelps.). Phelps one 8, and I was really surprised. As an American, I probably shouldn't say that, but my friends and I were placing bets on if he was going to get over 7 golds. Let's just say I lost 10 dollars. I knew he was a good swimmer, fantastic even! But I just didn't think he'd make the cut. I was at a party when he won, and everyone in the room was watching the Olympics, and we were screaming "Go, Michael! Go! Go! Go!" We started yelling and shouting when he won, and then we woke my baby sister up... Oops!
Well, anyway, 8 medals is really something to be proud of. Michael Phelps is an example for athletes everywhere, and I think that he is a person to look up to if you really want to set a goal for yourself. (Not just an athletic goal, either.)
Sorry for ranting and raving. I'm a big fan.
Sadie
I would like to bring up another athlete, though. He's very well known, and I think that he deserves some praise, comments, concerns, and otherwise. Michael Phelps. Heard of him? Yes, I thought so.
About him:
Now, here's the Wikipedia site on him. A point I would like to bring up is his diet! 12,000 calories a day! That's about 6 times as many calories as the recommended diet for a regular person is. I don't really have the time to list all of the foods that he has, even for breakfast! It's completely crazy, it seems. The thing is, he is a swimmer. I did the swim team for 5 years, and you do have to eat more than the average person if you really work hard at the sport. Even just the swimming I did, I had to eat 5,000 calories a day, and that seemed like way too much for me. Imagine 12,000!
Another and more obvious thing: His Olympic records. He beat Mark Spitz's record of seven gold medals in one Olympic competition (if you can put it that way... I should say that he got it over a period of days, as did Michael Phelps.). Phelps one 8, and I was really surprised. As an American, I probably shouldn't say that, but my friends and I were placing bets on if he was going to get over 7 golds. Let's just say I lost 10 dollars. I knew he was a good swimmer, fantastic even! But I just didn't think he'd make the cut. I was at a party when he won, and everyone in the room was watching the Olympics, and we were screaming "Go, Michael! Go! Go! Go!" We started yelling and shouting when he won, and then we woke my baby sister up... Oops!
Well, anyway, 8 medals is really something to be proud of. Michael Phelps is an example for athletes everywhere, and I think that he is a person to look up to if you really want to set a goal for yourself. (Not just an athletic goal, either.)
Sorry for ranting and raving. I'm a big fan.
Sadie
Sadie, dear. Have I heard of Michael Phelps? 
Sorry, it's just he's my favorite athlete of all time!
And it's not because he won so many gold medals either. I've been obsessed with him since I was about eleven years old. I saw him in a race I was watching on tv with my dad and I remember saying to my dad, "I like him. He's my favorite." Haha! Nothing's changed since then.
Haha! Your story of you shouting at the television set reminds me of a story of mine.
When he was in his final race where he won his 8th gold medal I was with my friend who is also a huge Michael Phelps fan. While he was racing we were screaming at the tv! I would not have been surprised if the neighbors heard us. We were screaming, "GO Michael! You can do it! Go! Go!" And when he won, we screamed even louder! It was great! Her parents thought we were crazy.
You know what I think is wonderful? I mean this is sad, but let me explain. When he was in school, his teachers told him he'd amount to nothing. The counselors all of them. He was picked on all the time. Now look at him! The world's greatest athlete!! Is that not amazing? And while he was at the Olympics someone he used to go to school with visited him. Michael didn't say a word to him and walked away. He later explained that that guy picked on him the most while he was in school and was never nice to him so he said why should he say anything to him. The guy was only there cause Michael is so famous now. I think that's horrible. But he must feel so good looking back on all those people who said he wouldn't do well.
I could talk forever about Michael Phelps. He really is my favorite athlete! I'm so glad you like him too Sadie!
Chelsea
Sorry, it's just he's my favorite athlete of all time! And it's not because he won so many gold medals either. I've been obsessed with him since I was about eleven years old. I saw him in a race I was watching on tv with my dad and I remember saying to my dad, "I like him. He's my favorite." Haha! Nothing's changed since then.
Haha! Your story of you shouting at the television set reminds me of a story of mine.
When he was in his final race where he won his 8th gold medal I was with my friend who is also a huge Michael Phelps fan. While he was racing we were screaming at the tv! I would not have been surprised if the neighbors heard us. We were screaming, "GO Michael! You can do it! Go! Go!" And when he won, we screamed even louder! It was great! Her parents thought we were crazy. You know what I think is wonderful? I mean this is sad, but let me explain. When he was in school, his teachers told him he'd amount to nothing. The counselors all of them. He was picked on all the time. Now look at him! The world's greatest athlete!! Is that not amazing? And while he was at the Olympics someone he used to go to school with visited him. Michael didn't say a word to him and walked away. He later explained that that guy picked on him the most while he was in school and was never nice to him so he said why should he say anything to him. The guy was only there cause Michael is so famous now. I think that's horrible. But he must feel so good looking back on all those people who said he wouldn't do well.
I could talk forever about Michael Phelps.
He really is my favorite athlete! I'm so glad you like him too Sadie!Chelsea
WOOHOO!!!! Go Gators. We had a very important victory today against our rival Georgia! The Florida Gators won 49-10. All I have to say is they had it coming after the disrespectful behavior Georgia showed last year!. I'm so excited this keeps our SEC and BCS championships alive. I just love my team! No disrespect to Georgia though...
Dawn...woohoo
GO GATORS
Dawn...woohoo
Michael Phelps. To be honest, I'm proud of him, but I hate it when one athlete or team sweeps like that. I'm one of those people that find that kind of annoying and just waits for that person to be beaten. Course...maybe if it was me or if I was on the team I'd feel differently. The only person during the Olympics that I wanted to see do ridiculously awesome things was Usain Bolt. He never gave it his all, and when the race really mattered I wanted to see him live up to his full potential. I'm glad he did. 
Boooooo Florida!
(Go Cats! We got just a little bit stomped...)
Boooooo Florida!
(Go Cats! We got just a little bit stomped...)
Yes, I'd have to agree with Droobles on that. How he became the focal point of the Olympics to many people.... That was something that I didn't enjoy. I could not talk to my friends about the Olympics for weeks because all they could talk about was Michael Phelps. Don't get me wrong, I love him, but I think that there should've been some more coverage on other people.
Well, I can't exactly say what I'd like to this year. I will anyway.
Go Packers!
I'm a Wisconsin girl, and I can't help it. Otherwise, I'd say "Go Rams!" because I grew up in that area as well.
Well, I can't exactly say what I'd like to this year. I will anyway.
Go Packers!
I'm a Wisconsin girl, and I can't help it. Otherwise, I'd say "Go Rams!" because I grew up in that area as well.
OMG SADIE!!! I'm a huge Packers fan too!!! Go Cheese LOL!! They almost beat the Tennessee Titans..I was so bummed when they lost...but they gave it a very good try!!
Just the Droobles, *Hem Hem* I hope your NOT talking about Kentucky! *Chuckles a bit* I'm so sorry about that game. But, I wouldn't say stomped though..I'd say Chomped LOL. But hey...at least they are in the SEC...eventually they will rip the gators apart...football is a vicious cycle. But i love it!
I can be a bit competitive...it's a borderline flaw LOL. I drive my husband (joe) nuts! He's never seen someone so into sports...especially a girl. I blame my parents!
Dawn
Just the Droobles, *Hem Hem* I hope your NOT talking about Kentucky! *Chuckles a bit* I'm so sorry about that game. But, I wouldn't say stomped though..I'd say Chomped LOL. But hey...at least they are in the SEC...eventually they will rip the gators apart...football is a vicious cycle.
But i love it! I can be a bit competitive...it's a borderline flaw LOL. I drive my husband (joe) nuts! He's never seen someone so into sports...especially a girl. I blame my parents!
Dawn
Haha, yes, Dawn, unfortunately I'm talking about the Kentucky Wildcats. That's my college, I gotta support them. The football team only started getting serious notice within the past two or three years. We're relatively focused on basketball here, and then all the sudden our football team was good, and basketball was crap.
But that Florida/UK game...
I couldn't even watch it. It was embarrassing. After that though, our quarterback got replaced. Which is good cause he kinda sucked anyway. I mean...sucks for him though cause he was a senior. LAWL.
But that Florida/UK game...
I couldn't even watch it. It was embarrassing. After that though, our quarterback got replaced. Which is good cause he kinda sucked anyway. I mean...sucks for him though cause he was a senior. LAWL.
Yeah..I've heard about Kentucky's basketball team...and the "Blue Madness" I think is what you guys call it. Correct me if I'm wrong! The huge basketball celebration...sounds really awesome!
I think it's awesome to support your college, I've always wanted to attend The Univ. of Florida...when I move back to Florida...I hope to do that. Do you still attend the U.of Kentucky? Or are you alumni now?
I just had to give you a hard time about the game...all in good fun though
. That was one of the many I have enjoyed watching this year! The only game we played that made me cringe, through pillows at my TV , scream and express a few special cuss words was the Ole Miss game.
Did I mention I'm a HUGE football fan? I really get into it! LOL
Unfortunately...that game fell on my birthday, and that's one thing I wished for...a WIN! But that birthday wish obviously didn't come true. Oh well... the SEC and BCS hopes are still alive!
GO GATORS!!
I think it's awesome to support your college, I've always wanted to attend The Univ. of Florida...when I move back to Florida...I hope to do that. Do you still attend the U.of Kentucky? Or are you alumni now?
I just had to give you a hard time about the game...all in good fun though
. That was one of the many I have enjoyed watching this year! The only game we played that made me cringe, through pillows at my TV , scream and express a few special cuss words was the Ole Miss game. Did I mention I'm a HUGE football fan? I really get into it! LOL
Unfortunately...that game fell on my birthday, and that's one thing I wished for...a WIN! But that birthday wish obviously didn't come true. Oh well... the SEC and BCS hopes are still alive!
GO GATORS!!
Yeah they hold Big Blue Madness every year and thousands of people go just to watch the team practice and scrimmage. It's a wee bit crazy if you ask me. But it's good that our town supports it so much. Apparently UK is the 11 largest "city" in Kentucky. So it's no wonder the Cats have so much support!
I attend UK right now. First semester...but because I live where UK is, I've basically been around UK all my life so it's nothing new. We're a college town. With a couple old people here and there. No worries about the game. I didn't expect a win, but I didn't expect the demolition of our team either. I didn't really watch it for more than 5 minutes though...so my cringing was kept to a minimum.
Haha and I can definitely tell you're a fan.
I attend UK right now. First semester...but because I live where UK is, I've basically been around UK all my life so it's nothing new. We're a college town. With a couple old people here and there.
No worries about the game. I didn't expect a win, but I didn't expect the demolition of our team either. I didn't really watch it for more than 5 minutes though...so my cringing was kept to a minimum.Haha and I can definitely tell you're a fan.
LOL...I just want to wish the cats a big day tomorrow! I hope you guys beat Georgia...No offense to lovely GA fans...but the rivalry between Florida and Georgia is so tense...I can't stand Georgia...respectfully
It's a life long hatred...cats vs dogs right...the species don't really care for each other. So this weekend I hope the Cats RULE and the Dogs DROOL!! Sorry Georgia It would be nice for Kentucky to beat a pretty good Ga team.
Dawn
It's a life long hatred...cats vs dogs right...the species don't really care for each other. So this weekend I hope the Cats RULE and the Dogs DROOL!! Sorry Georgia
It would be nice for Kentucky to beat a pretty good Ga team.Dawn
I just had to stop by here real fast! GREAT game for Kentucky, I thought they were going to win it. They really came out to play and put it all on the table...awesome game!
YAY YAY YAY!! My gators won!! WOOHOO!!! So it's official the Florida Gators will be playing Alabama for the SEC title!. This game is going to be tense...my husband is a Bama fan...but at least he wont be home for the game...we get pretty worked up when our teams play each other LOL!!
Dawn.....................GO GATORS!!
YAY YAY YAY!! My gators won!! WOOHOO!!! So it's official the Florida Gators will be playing Alabama for the SEC title!. This game is going to be tense...my husband is a Bama fan...but at least he wont be home for the game...we get pretty worked up when our teams play each other LOL!!
Dawn.....................GO GATORS!!
I am a huge Nebraska Cornhusker supporter, being from Nebraska and all it comes naturally. I went to the game at Memorial Stadium last Saturday to watch my Huskers defeat ranked Kansas in the freezing cold to become bowl eligible. The Huskers are now 6-4 and that could have easily been 8-2. We dropped a close game to Virginia Tech and we dropped a game to ranked Texas Tech in OT. We were blown out by Missouri and Oklahoma. We won the game 45-35. Joey Ganz was our leading passer, Roy Helu Jr. (who I believe should be our starting halfback) was our leading rusher, Nate Swift was our leading receiver, and Suh dominated on defense (and even caught a TD pass for us in our goal line package). Last year under Callahan we weren't ever bowl eligible and under Bo Pelini with two regular season games left we are.
That is so awesome! I wish I could go to a football game! I'm from Florida...so I know how you feel about liking the team from your home state. I wish I lived in Fla. so I could go to a game. I wanted to go for my birthday...they happened to play Ole Miss. Thank God I didn't go! I would have been even more upset LOL
Dawn
Dawn
WOOHOO!!! How about them Gators..huh...huh! I was a little worried at first, but was soon enjoying the game. All of Spurrier's facial expressions made my day. That was awesome! Well, there wasn't much of a shake up in the BCS. Great games this weekend.
Glad to see UNC lose, gives the Hurricanes a chance.
Dawn WooHoo GO GATORS!!!!
Glad to see UNC lose, gives the Hurricanes a chance.
Dawn WooHoo GO GATORS!!!!
I just watched my Huskers come back from a 1 point deficit with 1:50 remaining to win by 9!! It was 4th and 25 and we sent out our kicker Alex Henery for a 57 yd (New school record). field goal and he made it for a school record! When they were back on offense our defensive lineman Zach Potter tipped the ball and our Nose Guard Suh intercepted it and trampled their quarterback on his td return. It felt so good to deny them a bowl berth after they did just that to us a year ago. Our kicker was rightfully named player of the game as we won 40-31.
I found a really amazing husker highlight video on youtube if anyone is interested, these plays and people define the husker tradition. I think any football fan, not just Husker supporters, could appreciate this video because of all the amazing plays.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8oxg9xheXs
By the way Hermione 17 you if you were to watch it you might want to skip through 2:46-3:04 because our qb tommie frazier totally dominated your florida gators.
I found a really amazing husker highlight video on youtube if anyone is interested, these plays and people define the husker tradition. I think any football fan, not just Husker supporters, could appreciate this video because of all the amazing plays.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8oxg9xheXs
By the way Hermione 17 you if you were to watch it you might want to skip through 2:46-3:04 because our qb tommie frazier totally dominated your florida gators.
WOOHOO!!!
I just want to say that I love my Gators!!!
And great job to Bama! What a tough game! Wow! I was definitely nervous watching this game...I finally relaxed at the last 2 minutes, when we intercepted the throw from John Parker Wilson. That pretty much sealed the win! Great Job Gators!
Dawn Go Gators!!!
Florida Gators SEC CHAMPIONS!!!
I just want to say that I love my Gators!!!
And great job to Bama! What a tough game! Wow! I was definitely nervous watching this game...I finally relaxed at the last 2 minutes, when we intercepted the throw from John Parker Wilson. That pretty much sealed the win! Great Job Gators! Dawn Go Gators!!!
Gasp! Do my eyes ddecieve me? I LOVE sports I love watching and playing it<3 I LOVE to play softball(: So I enjoy watching baseball; For my boyfriend's sake Go Red Sox; but for myslef I'd say that I do love my Florida Marlins. Though they haven't won the world series since like 2003; Same goes for the Miami Heat; They haven't won since 2006 but Dwayne Waed is a favorite of mine((: Also football. I am from Florida but I have to admit I love the New England Patriots<3 Anyone want to argue with me on my choices?
I love watching and playing it<3 I LOVE to play softball(: So I enjoy watching baseball; For my boyfriend's sake Go Red Sox; but for myslef I'd say that I do love my Florida Marlins. Though they haven't won the world series since like 2003; Same goes for the Miami Heat; They haven't won since 2006 but Dwayne Waed is a favorite of mine((: Also football. I am from Florida but I have to admit I love the New England Patriots<3 Anyone want to argue with me on my choices?
I agree on the Miami Heat(my favorite team as well) and Dwayne Wade, Chris Paul, and Paul Pierce are my three favorite players in the NBA. I hate the Red Sox (one of the 3 mlb teams I know) but one of my neighbors played for them. I dont even know who the Florida Marlins are... I know the Cubs, Yankees, and Red Sox. I absolutely detest the Patriots though, im a big Colts fan and since the Giants beat the Patriots I like them a lot now too. Anyone who beats the Patriots will always be favorable in my book. Of all the NFL teams I hate the Patriots the most and then the Packers.
Here are my favorite sports teams...
College Football: Huskers
Mens College basketball: Oklahoma State and Creighton
Womens College basketball: Tennessee
Volleyball: Huskers
NBA basketball: Miami Heat
NFL Football: Colts
Baseball: Cubs??? I dont know any baseball teams really...
Here are my favorite sports teams...
College Football: Huskers
Mens College basketball: Oklahoma State and Creighton
Womens College basketball: Tennessee
Volleyball: Huskers
NBA basketball: Miami Heat
NFL Football: Colts
Baseball: Cubs??? I dont know any baseball teams really...
Nicky, since I'm also from the Sunshine State I tend to love my Florida teams as well!
So I think I'll break it down like HJP/HJG_TrueLove did.
College Football: Florida Gators!!!! WOOHOO
Mens College basketball: I'd say the Gators again...
Womens College basketball: Ummm...Gators ( I don't really follow basketball though
)
Volleyball: Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh
(I love my volleyball!! I really miss playing it
)
NBA basketball: Miami Heat...I guess
NFL Football: Packers
Baseball: Florida Marlins
Hockey: Go Florida Panthers!!
I think that about does it!
Dawn
So I think I'll break it down like HJP/HJG_TrueLove did.
College Football: Florida Gators!!!! WOOHOO
Mens College basketball: I'd say the Gators again...
Womens College basketball: Ummm...Gators ( I don't really follow basketball though
)Volleyball: Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh
(I love my volleyball!! I really miss playing it
)NBA basketball: Miami Heat...I guess
NFL Football: Packers
Baseball: Florida Marlins
Hockey: Go Florida Panthers!!
I think that about does it!
Dawn
Biggest comeback in Nebraska volleyball history to advance to the final 4 in Omaha last night!
We played Washington (who by the way swept us out of the national championship in 2005). They went down 2-0 in sets (25-14 and 23-25) going into the third set. They next set Nebraska put it at 2-1 with a 25-17 performance. In the fourth set Nebraska took a 21-13 lead and Washington went on a 8-1 run to put the score at 22-21, the match ended with a Kayla Banwoath ace 26-24. In the fifth and final set (just to 15 points) Washington took a 3-0 lead and Nebraska burned a timeout, after the timeout Washington had a service error to make it 3-1. Errors on Nebraskas part put Washington up 9-3. All I could think was I cant believe this is Jordan Larson's last game ever, she was a freshmen the year I first took extreme interest in the program and she was probably the main reason for it. The Huskers burnt another timeout and Kayla Banwarth went on a serving streak, her first serve was an ace and the rest until a substitution by Washington put Washington way out of rotation. To keep Banwarths serving streak alive, Larson buried 5 kills and a block, and Licht had 2 monster blocks to boost Nebraska to a 12-9 lead! Washington cut it to 12-11 and Larson added another block to her totals to make it 13-11, Washington responded by tying it at 13 all. Washington then had an attack error and Jordan Larson ended the game with an ace!!! We are going to play Penn State in Omaha and of course it will be sold out!
Last year was should have been the greatest ever team in college volleyball history, even better than out National Championship team of the previous year. We had two returning players of the year (Pavan and Houghtelling) + 4 returning All Americans (Pavan, Larson, Stalls, and Holloway). Pavan, Stalls, and Houghtelling were seniors. Larson is a senior, and Holloway decided to give up volleyball, leave the university all together, to pursue her degree undistracted. Kori Copper was our only starter who was not a previous All-American. This team was swept out of the sweet 16. Nebraska is so good at volleyball that i just entered 2007 volleyball All-Americans and my first hit was the husker athletic site. Pavan by the way was the one of four players in history to receive first team All-American honors all four years!
This year we were in a bad spot. Penn State refused to release their setter (Holloway was our only setter and she left) who transferred to us so she was redshirted this year. We were waiting on the transfer of Utah setter Sidney Anderson-our setter this year. We returned starters in Kori Copper, and libero Kayla Banwarth. Plus Cori Copper recently sustained a leg injury that knocked her out of the season, so that put Brooke Delano in her spot. Brooke Delano started one game and then she had appendicitis to knock her out the season. These injuries happened about 2 weeks ago.
We will play number one Penn State Thursday!
We played Washington (who by the way swept us out of the national championship in 2005). They went down 2-0 in sets (25-14 and 23-25) going into the third set. They next set Nebraska put it at 2-1 with a 25-17 performance. In the fourth set Nebraska took a 21-13 lead and Washington went on a 8-1 run to put the score at 22-21, the match ended with a Kayla Banwoath ace 26-24. In the fifth and final set (just to 15 points) Washington took a 3-0 lead and Nebraska burned a timeout, after the timeout Washington had a service error to make it 3-1. Errors on Nebraskas part put Washington up 9-3. All I could think was I cant believe this is Jordan Larson's last game ever, she was a freshmen the year I first took extreme interest in the program and she was probably the main reason for it. The Huskers burnt another timeout and Kayla Banwarth went on a serving streak, her first serve was an ace and the rest until a substitution by Washington put Washington way out of rotation. To keep Banwarths serving streak alive, Larson buried 5 kills and a block, and Licht had 2 monster blocks to boost Nebraska to a 12-9 lead! Washington cut it to 12-11 and Larson added another block to her totals to make it 13-11, Washington responded by tying it at 13 all. Washington then had an attack error and Jordan Larson ended the game with an ace!!! We are going to play Penn State in Omaha and of course it will be sold out!
Last year was should have been the greatest ever team in college volleyball history, even better than out National Championship team of the previous year. We had two returning players of the year (Pavan and Houghtelling) + 4 returning All Americans (Pavan, Larson, Stalls, and Holloway). Pavan, Stalls, and Houghtelling were seniors. Larson is a senior, and Holloway decided to give up volleyball, leave the university all together, to pursue her degree undistracted. Kori Copper was our only starter who was not a previous All-American. This team was swept out of the sweet 16. Nebraska is so good at volleyball that i just entered 2007 volleyball All-Americans and my first hit was the husker athletic site. Pavan by the way was the one of four players in history to receive first team All-American honors all four years!
This year we were in a bad spot. Penn State refused to release their setter (Holloway was our only setter and she left) who transferred to us so she was redshirted this year. We were waiting on the transfer of Utah setter Sidney Anderson-our setter this year. We returned starters in Kori Copper, and libero Kayla Banwarth. Plus Cori Copper recently sustained a leg injury that knocked her out of the season, so that put Brooke Delano in her spot. Brooke Delano started one game and then she had appendicitis to knock her out the season. These injuries happened about 2 weeks ago.
We will play number one Penn State Thursday!
Nebraska and Penn State square off tonight at the Qwest about 30 minutes from my house. Wow I wish had tickets. Also, Stanford and Texas are playing at the Qwest tonight. I was at the game when they last squared off, Stanford won 3-2.
In other Husker volleyball news, Husker commit Gina Mancuso of Nebraska (younger sister of former Husker Dani Mancuso who started for the huskers in their last national championship) was named Gatorade National Player of the Year.
Well, the Husker volleyball team lost, Jordan Larson, Rachel Swartz, and Amanda Gates all Nebraska natives are finished... Penn State came in the number one team in the country. They hadn't dropped even a set since last years national championship which they ultimately won. They were loaded with 6 returning All Americans. Nebraska had one left, Larson. Penn State took the first set 25-17, and then the second set 25-18. The Huskers stormed back to take the third and fourth set 25-15 and 25-22. The fifth set to 15 ended 15-11 Penn State, at one point the Huskers had them at 10-8 and Penn State came roaring back after a timeout. Man, this bites!
Nebraska had 3 All-Americans and one honorable mention All-American.
1st team-Jordan Larson OH Senior
2nd team-Sydney Anderson S Sophomore and Tara Mueller OH Sophomore
Honorable Mention- Kori Cooper (who missed several of the last matches due to a season ending knee injury) Middle Blocker Junior
This Husker team wasn't expected to do anything. Last years team was absolutely loaded these were the starters and some credentials.
Sophomore setter- Rachel Holloway 1st Team All American-left frosh and soph year left to pursue education
Senior RS Hitter- Sarah Pavan- 1st team All American all four years and returning player of the year and academic All American of the year. Arguably the greatest player ever.
Senior Middle Blocker- Tracy Stalls 2 time All American-Now a Husker coach
Sophomore Middle Blocker-Kori Cooper-Jr. US National Team Captain and several academic awards. Now a honorable mention All-American Award
Senior OH-Christina Houghtelling 2 time All American and 2005 Player of the Year
Junior OH-Jordan Larson 3 time All American, Big 12 player of the year, Big 12 defensive player of the year (first player ever to win both in same year). Nebraska record holder for double-doubles. John Cook called her the greatest Husker Volleyball Player ever!
This year we had to reload and deal with injuries. Not only was Kori Cooper injured but her top back up got appendicitis and so the spot went to a walk on, redshirt freshmen. All I can say is great year!!! You did what last years team was unable to which seemed improbable at the beginning of the season. Jordan Larson carried this team throughout the season and my interest in Husker volleyball is largely due to her. I wrote a speech on the Huskers in her freshmen year and she quickly became my favorite player!
In other Husker volleyball news, Husker commit Gina Mancuso of Nebraska (younger sister of former Husker Dani Mancuso who started for the huskers in their last national championship) was named Gatorade National Player of the Year.
Well, the Husker volleyball team lost, Jordan Larson, Rachel Swartz, and Amanda Gates all Nebraska natives are finished... Penn State came in the number one team in the country. They hadn't dropped even a set since last years national championship which they ultimately won. They were loaded with 6 returning All Americans. Nebraska had one left, Larson. Penn State took the first set 25-17, and then the second set 25-18. The Huskers stormed back to take the third and fourth set 25-15 and 25-22. The fifth set to 15 ended 15-11 Penn State, at one point the Huskers had them at 10-8 and Penn State came roaring back after a timeout. Man, this bites!
Nebraska had 3 All-Americans and one honorable mention All-American.
1st team-Jordan Larson OH Senior
2nd team-Sydney Anderson S Sophomore and Tara Mueller OH Sophomore
Honorable Mention- Kori Cooper (who missed several of the last matches due to a season ending knee injury) Middle Blocker Junior
This Husker team wasn't expected to do anything. Last years team was absolutely loaded these were the starters and some credentials.
Sophomore setter- Rachel Holloway 1st Team All American-left frosh and soph year left to pursue education
Senior RS Hitter- Sarah Pavan- 1st team All American all four years and returning player of the year and academic All American of the year. Arguably the greatest player ever.
Senior Middle Blocker- Tracy Stalls 2 time All American-Now a Husker coach
Sophomore Middle Blocker-Kori Cooper-Jr. US National Team Captain and several academic awards. Now a honorable mention All-American Award
Senior OH-Christina Houghtelling 2 time All American and 2005 Player of the Year
Junior OH-Jordan Larson 3 time All American, Big 12 player of the year, Big 12 defensive player of the year (first player ever to win both in same year). Nebraska record holder for double-doubles. John Cook called her the greatest Husker Volleyball Player ever!
This year we had to reload and deal with injuries. Not only was Kori Cooper injured but her top back up got appendicitis and so the spot went to a walk on, redshirt freshmen. All I can say is great year!!! You did what last years team was unable to which seemed improbable at the beginning of the season. Jordan Larson carried this team throughout the season and my interest in Husker volleyball is largely due to her. I wrote a speech on the Huskers in her freshmen year and she quickly became my favorite player!
We had the Gator Bowl today!!!
The final score was Huskers 26, Clemson 21!!!
It was a really slow game until the end of the first half. Clemson almost had an early field goal but we blocked it! In which Clemson scored two tds and we got a field goal.
The second half was a lot better. Clemson had another td and we had 3 more field goals and 2 tds!!!
The Huskers finished 9-4 in head coach Bo Pelini's first season! We finished 5-7 last year so very welcome change!
Happy New Year!!!
The final score was Huskers 26, Clemson 21!!!
It was a really slow game until the end of the first half. Clemson almost had an early field goal but we blocked it! In which Clemson scored two tds and we got a field goal.
The second half was a lot better. Clemson had another td and we had 3 more field goals and 2 tds!!!
The Huskers finished 9-4 in head coach Bo Pelini's first season! We finished 5-7 last year so very welcome change!
Happy New Year!!!
Hi! *steps in trying to stay unnoticed*
I've got a question. Since I don't live in the US, can someone explain why college sports are so important? I had watched a movie where people placed bets not only on big teams, but also in college ones. So, why is so much importance given to them?
Thanks in advance!
I've got a question. Since I don't live in the US, can someone explain why college sports are so important? I had watched a movie where people placed bets not only on big teams, but also in college ones. So, why is so much importance given to them?
Thanks in advance!
I've never really thought about it. Well, it isn't really all college teams but just division 1 schools. There is division 1, 2, and 3 and the best teams play division 1. There are just 2 division 1 schools in Nebraska the UNL Huskers and Creighton Blue Jays. Where I live there is no professional teams, so college is the highest level here, for professional you would have to go to Kansas City for the nearest action. Thats one reason the Husker football team is so popular, it is out only division 1 football team, nothing is bigger in Nebraska.
Personally, I prefer collegiate sports, its refreshing to see athletes give it their all. Collegiate athletes still have to get to the big money, they are gonna work as hard as they can so they can get a big paycheck later. It seems like in professional sports players don't care, they already have the big money, and it seems like thats all that matters. Not all player, but a lot.
Collegiate sports are especially big in the post season, much like professional leagues. During March, my friends and I always fill out brackets for March Madness (The college basketball tournament). We always bet on those, it makes it more interesting. I think that is the main one for betting because it is the biggest sport with the post season in tournament play. Football just has a bunch of random bowls with random teams but almost everything else has a tournament system. Sometimes get to watch March Madness during school, especially if the Creighton Jays are in it.
I hope that answered your question... because I didn't really know where to start.
Personally, I prefer collegiate sports, its refreshing to see athletes give it their all. Collegiate athletes still have to get to the big money, they are gonna work as hard as they can so they can get a big paycheck later. It seems like in professional sports players don't care, they already have the big money, and it seems like thats all that matters. Not all player, but a lot.
Collegiate sports are especially big in the post season, much like professional leagues. During March, my friends and I always fill out brackets for March Madness (The college basketball tournament). We always bet on those, it makes it more interesting. I think that is the main one for betting because it is the biggest sport with the post season in tournament play. Football just has a bunch of random bowls with random teams but almost everything else has a tournament system. Sometimes get to watch March Madness during school, especially if the Creighton Jays are in it.
I hope that answered your question... because I didn't really know where to start.
Well, here is my POV on college sports...
I prefer college because the players are genuinely trying. They give it their all while trying to keep their grades as high as possible and doing charity work...all at the same time. College athletes show a lot more passion and love for their particular sport verses the pros.
Pro sports are all about money and imagine. They seem to worry about who gets the ball and who's getting paid what, instead of enjoying the game like they once did.
Don't get me wrong, I love professional sports, I just prefer college for their pure love of the game.
Dawn
I prefer college because the players are genuinely trying. They give it their all while trying to keep their grades as high as possible and doing charity work...all at the same time. College athletes show a lot more passion and love for their particular sport verses the pros.
Pro sports are all about money and imagine. They seem to worry about who gets the ball and who's getting paid what, instead of enjoying the game like they once did.
Don't get me wrong, I love professional sports, I just prefer college for their pure love of the game.
Dawn
I grew up in the heart of ACC Basketball country (for those of you not familiar with college divisions, the ACC is the Atlantic Coast Conference and in the good ol' days consisted of 8 teams, and now has been messed all up with the addition of 4 more, to give us 12... which I think has to do with eligibility to play in certain bowl games... it all comes down to money, but I digress!)
I grew up in Raleigh, NC, home of the NC State Wolfpack, and 30 minutes from both Chapel Hill (UNC Tarheels) and Durham (Duke Blue Devils). I also grew up in a household that were Wake Forest Demon Deacon fans (go Deacs!). It seems that for as long as I can remember, UNC and Duke have always been powerhouses in basketball (under Dean Smith and Mike Krzyzewski) and for a while both NC State and UNC had decent football teams. Having so many collegiate teams around and so many residents attending said universities, there has always been friendly (and some not-so-friendly) rivalries between the teams and their fans. I can remember growing up that you had to choose between State and Carolina, you couldn't EVER pull for both (in fact, my sister was such a die-hard Tarheel fan, that in 1983 when State won the NCAA Basketball tournament she refused to go with us to celebrate on Hillsborough Street... the main "drag" for State... she actually pulled for Houston against a NC team). I was a Wake Forest fan all my life, and it wasn't until my junior year at Wake that their sports teams started getting noticed. This past year Wake Forest was nationally ranked in football (which has become more common, but still amazes me since they weren't all that great when I was growing up) and they are currently in the top 5 for basketball (again, I'm more used to that, but in grade school I was definitely in the minority for being a WFU fan).
Now, my husband grew up in Minnesota. There is really only one big university there, and that's the University of Minnesota. He says that EVERYONE is a UofM fan (Go Gophers) and right across the river in Wisconsin everyone is a Badger fan (University of Wisconsin). They are in the Big 10 (which ironically now has 12 teams, too, but the name of the conference hasn't changed). He has commented that it's different living here in NC with so many colleges to choose from to cheer for, where in MN you only had the one. I think in the Big 10 each of the schools is from a different state, as far away as Pennsylvania, so you really only have one "hometown team" to support.
Still, to answer Alkisti's question, you pull for the college teams because you can identify with them because you either went to the school or grew up in an area that supports that school and these are non-professional athletes who love the game and are still playing for the sake of the game and not the almighty dollar (although some of the bigger universities with larger booster clubs can lure the better athletes to their schools with nicer facilities and in some, ahem, illegal, instances, with "perks" such as a car to drive or spending money, although this can be hard to prove, it still happens and taints the whole system). I'm sure many of these athletes have dreams of going pro, but those odds are slim and hopefully many of them realize that and have back-up plans!
Now, to change the subject (in that it's not about college sports), what are your opinions of professional athletes playing in the olympic games? I can remember when it was just the regular "Joe the Athlete" competing in the Olympics, then the "Dream Team" , consisting of, mostly, professional basketball players was allowed to compete and wiped the floor clean with every other team that summer. I can remember it was sort of a big deal (seems that some of the communist bloc countries wanted to go against our "best" athletes, who happened to be professional and insisted that they be allowed to play them). Now, a lot of the sports have professional athletes competing.
I bring this up since we just watched (again) "Miracle on Ice" about the 1980 US hockey team. These were guys who really were there to live the olympic dream. They worked hard, were not expected to do well and ended up beating the USSR to advance to the gold medal game (yes, I remember watching that on tv when I was in 6th grade I was screaming and cheering and I didn't know a thing about hockey, having grown up in the South). Now, the hockey players are all professional, even for the non-US teams. The attitude of the professional athletes at the olympics is pretty pathetic and I don't feel that they try their hardest (basketball and hockey). I would much rather watch the athletes who have worked their butts off to get where they are succeed.
That's my rambling... my own fault for not posting here in a while!
Kathleen
I grew up in Raleigh, NC, home of the NC State Wolfpack, and 30 minutes from both Chapel Hill (UNC Tarheels) and Durham (Duke Blue Devils). I also grew up in a household that were Wake Forest Demon Deacon fans (go Deacs!). It seems that for as long as I can remember, UNC and Duke have always been powerhouses in basketball (under Dean Smith and Mike Krzyzewski) and for a while both NC State and UNC had decent football teams. Having so many collegiate teams around and so many residents attending said universities, there has always been friendly (and some not-so-friendly) rivalries between the teams and their fans. I can remember growing up that you had to choose between State and Carolina, you couldn't EVER pull for both (in fact, my sister was such a die-hard Tarheel fan, that in 1983 when State won the NCAA Basketball tournament she refused to go with us to celebrate on Hillsborough Street... the main "drag" for State... she actually pulled for Houston against a NC team). I was a Wake Forest fan all my life, and it wasn't until my junior year at Wake that their sports teams started getting noticed. This past year Wake Forest was nationally ranked in football (which has become more common, but still amazes me since they weren't all that great when I was growing up) and they are currently in the top 5 for basketball (again, I'm more used to that, but in grade school I was definitely in the minority for being a WFU fan).
Now, my husband grew up in Minnesota. There is really only one big university there, and that's the University of Minnesota. He says that EVERYONE is a UofM fan (Go Gophers) and right across the river in Wisconsin everyone is a Badger fan (University of Wisconsin). They are in the Big 10 (which ironically now has 12 teams, too, but the name of the conference hasn't changed). He has commented that it's different living here in NC with so many colleges to choose from to cheer for, where in MN you only had the one. I think in the Big 10 each of the schools is from a different state, as far away as Pennsylvania, so you really only have one "hometown team" to support.
Still, to answer Alkisti's question, you pull for the college teams because you can identify with them because you either went to the school or grew up in an area that supports that school and these are non-professional athletes who love the game and are still playing for the sake of the game and not the almighty dollar (although some of the bigger universities with larger booster clubs can lure the better athletes to their schools with nicer facilities and in some, ahem, illegal, instances, with "perks" such as a car to drive or spending money, although this can be hard to prove, it still happens and taints the whole system). I'm sure many of these athletes have dreams of going pro, but those odds are slim and hopefully many of them realize that and have back-up plans!
Now, to change the subject (in that it's not about college sports), what are your opinions of professional athletes playing in the olympic games? I can remember when it was just the regular "Joe the Athlete" competing in the Olympics, then the "Dream Team" , consisting of, mostly, professional basketball players was allowed to compete and wiped the floor clean with every other team that summer. I can remember it was sort of a big deal (seems that some of the communist bloc countries wanted to go against our "best" athletes, who happened to be professional and insisted that they be allowed to play them). Now, a lot of the sports have professional athletes competing.
I bring this up since we just watched (again) "Miracle on Ice" about the 1980 US hockey team. These were guys who really were there to live the olympic dream. They worked hard, were not expected to do well and ended up beating the USSR to advance to the gold medal game (yes, I remember watching that on tv when I was in 6th grade
I was screaming and cheering and I didn't know a thing about hockey, having grown up in the South). Now, the hockey players are all professional, even for the non-US teams. The attitude of the professional athletes at the olympics is pretty pathetic and I don't feel that they try their hardest (basketball and hockey). I would much rather watch the athletes who have worked their butts off to get where they are succeed.That's my rambling... my own fault for not posting here in a while!
Kathleen
I'm going to answer the recent question later. I'm so tired right now, I just wanted to jump on here real fast and say...
Okay, my throat is horsed and I have a pounding headache from screaming and jumping around during the game. Congratulations to the Gators and all us fans that support them! And great game Oklahoma! Wow, what a challenge it was to play such an outstanding team!
Dawn
WOOHOO! MY GATORS WON THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!!!
GO GATORS!!!
GO GATORS!!!
Okay, my throat is horsed and I have a pounding headache from screaming and jumping around during the game. Congratulations to the Gators and all us fans that support them! And great game Oklahoma! Wow, what a challenge it was to play such an outstanding team!
Dawn
Ya hats off to the Gators though I must admit I was rooting for the Sooners as much as it pains me to do so. I will go with the Big 12 always but im back to hating the Sooners again so all is right with the world. I got extremely sick of hearing about Tim Tebow it was ridiculous, I got a good laugh when all the announcers would do was talk about about how great of a person he is and next thing you know he gets a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. I agree with the statement the Tim Tebow would be the fourth maybe fifth best quarterback in the Big 12. Honestly, its true, that isn't extreme bias. Tim Tebow is the best athlete of the bunch but Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy, Graham Harrell, and possibly Chase Daniel are better quarterbacks in terms of overall accuracy and efficiency maybe not stat wise but it was kinda of a let down for me to watch Tim Tebow (besides the runs) because I expected him to be every bit as good as the Big 12 quarterbacks but he just wasn't. He would be ahead of guys like Todd Resse, Joe Ganz, Josh Freeman, and Baylors stud freshmen quarterback (a future Heisman winner in my opinion) but not by much. That guy who had the hurt ankle though, man he was exciting, what a stud! But anyway good game to both teams, you earned it Florida!!!
Oh thanks to all three of you for answering my question. We don't have such teams in Greece, and thus, I was finding it hard to understand how all this works. But I really get your point. Our universities have teams too, but they get no coverage and we hardly ever find out about games, where they take place, and who won in the end, even though an occassion like this can bring people together. And let's admit it, it'd be fun supporting your own college!
So, because of that, we only have professional teams. I support none of them. I know that there are great financial games going on behind the team, and what used to be noble is now tainted. What I mean is that players no longer give their all, but only care about the money. And on the other hand, even the ones who want to play and try hard, are not allowed to do so sometimes because some games are "bought", if you know what I mean. This has led me to abstain from watching professional sports. I only support a small greek team because it's my neighboor's team. But that's it.
What are your opinions of professional athletes playing in the olympic games?
I'm not sure why, but I don't like it. Our baskteball team is awesome and they are giving their best, but I don't like watching them in the Olympics. I can't explain why. I just feel that they should concentrate on what they are good at (such as big competitions, the Euro etc), and leave Olympics to others. Plus, I don't even get why there should be basketball or football on Olympics. That's not the way it used to be , but whatever brings more viewers and sponsors, right?
So, because of that, we only have professional teams. I support none of them. I know that there are great financial games going on behind the team, and what used to be noble is now tainted. What I mean is that players no longer give their all, but only care about the money. And on the other hand, even the ones who want to play and try hard, are not allowed to do so sometimes because some games are "bought", if you know what I mean. This has led me to abstain from watching professional sports. I only support a small greek team because it's my neighboor's team. But that's it.
What are your opinions of professional athletes playing in the olympic games?
I'm not sure why, but I don't like it. Our baskteball team is awesome and they are giving their best, but I don't like watching them in the Olympics. I can't explain why. I just feel that they should concentrate on what they are good at (such as big competitions, the Euro etc), and leave Olympics to others. Plus, I don't even get why there should be basketball or football on Olympics. That's not the way it used to be , but whatever brings more viewers and sponsors, right?
Obviously I disagree with the statement that Tebow would be the fourth best QB in the Big12. Sam Bradford didn't look like a Heisman winner to me in the Championship game. And as for the "Unsportsman like conduct" call...Oh please! The sooner player was taunting Tebow. Tebow backed away and for good measure did the gator chomp. Not everyone is perfect and he proved that he's human. I take my hat off to Tebow for showing that he's like the rest of us and things can get under even his tough skin. If I was being bashed by the opposing team, I probably would have done the same thing. I love Tebow and I love my Gators! I wish we could play all the big 12 and USC and settle the bickering once and for all...in Florida's favor of course.
HJP/HJG_TrueLove The stud you're referring to is Percy Harvin #1. And he is without a doubt our best player with Tebow at a very close second. I love Percy Harvin though. Coming back from such a bad ankle injury and performing the way he did last night...WOW! I sure hope he decides to come back for his senior year.
Go Gators!!
Dawn
I wish we could play all the big 12 and USC and settle the bickering once and for all...in Florida's favor of course. HJP/HJG_TrueLove The stud you're referring to is Percy Harvin #1. And he is without a doubt our best player with Tebow at a very close second. I love Percy Harvin though. Coming back from such a bad ankle injury and performing the way he did last night...WOW! I sure hope he decides to come back for his senior year.
Go Gators!!
Dawn
This will probably slightly upset you but here was the caption of our newspaper under a picture of Tebow.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow was chosen the game's most outstanding player, running for 109 yards. His passing wasn't so precise, but good enough.
I can only honestly think of one bad pass by Sam Bradford, it was on the first drive and he didn't intentionally throw it away but it went about 10 yards out and about 10 yards in front of the intended receiver. Plus, both of Bradford's interceptions were not from bad passes, they were actually perfectly good passes but the receivers bobbled it and practically handed it to the Florida defense. I can't remember Tebow's first interception but his second one was a totally horrible pass.
This will ultimately lead to a defense debate because everyone knows the SEC is the best defensive conference in the country and the Big 12 is horrible. But here are some stats
Quarterback Rating Player School Rating
1. Sam Bradford Oklahoma 180.8
2. David Johnson Tulsa 178.7
3. Colt McCoy Texas 173.4
4. Tim Tebow Florida 172.4
5. Zac Robinson Oklahoma State 166.8
Passing Yards Player School Yards
1. Graham Harrell Texas Tech 5,111
2. Case Keenum Houston 5,020
3. Sam Bradford Oklahoma 4,720
4. Chase Daniel Missouri 4,335
5. Chase Clement Rice 4,119
Heisman voting
1. Sam Bradford QB OK
2. Colt McCoy QB TX
3. Tim Tebow QB FL
4. Graham Harell QB TT
5. Micheal Crabtree WR TT
But of course this will probably lead into a defensive debate. The one thing I can say is the Oklahoma led the nation in takeaways, and turnover margin. Plus, we had a handful of defensive all-americans (as a matter of fact you went against 2 last night), plus national defensive awards in the big 12. Which considering the high powered offenses should be impossible, but it happened, I think our defenses deserve a little more credit. Not too much though, they are horrible still.
Here is a excerpt in our newspaper about Tebow I did agree with.
Tebow is an interesting case. The hype for the talented Florida junior is over the top. I heard normally rational writers here call him "the greatest player in college football history."
Let's not get carried away.
Tebow is a very good player. He's a difference maker. He reminds me of another special quarterback who wore No. 15 way back when.
Tommy Frazier.
Tebow's numbers were good: 109 yards rushing, 231 passing, two touchdown passes, and countless runs and passes for key first downs in the clutch. A good night, to be sure.
But Tebow, like Frazier, is not about numbers. He's about intangibles and leadership and good decisions, not breathtaking plays. Tebow is about guts. He had a couple of bad interceptions in the first half, and OU bottled up his running. But he came out in the second half and made the plays to win.
Hope you liked that! Tebow was the best leader out there last night even though he did have one instance of taunting even if, like you mentioned, it was provoked.
Heres a random list of game changing moments (or potentially game changing moments) I can think of off the top of my head (excluding tds and interceptions) in no particular order.
1. Missed interference call... or even helmet to helmet hit on Oklahomas first drive, where Oklahomas receiver was laid out just before the ball got there on second down I believe.
2. Percy Harvin's huge run from their own one.
3. All of Tebows many studly runs to extend the game on third down and eat up clock.
4. Florida shutting down the run on the 2 yard line
5. No. 75 of Floridas 3 false start calls (almost 4)
Hope I didn't forget anything, im sure I did...
Hope I dont offend you with any comments here, thats not my intent, I just give my honest opinion just as I am sure you are.
I wish we could play all the big 12 and USC and settle the bickering once and for all...in Florida's favor of course.
Go Gators!!
Dawn
Im sure Texas would love a shot at it, but I don't think they deserve after hardly pulling out against Ohio State. I think you're forgetting Utah, only undefeated team, they crushed Alabama in their bowl game, but I was expecting that, I always thought Alabama was overrated.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow was chosen the game's most outstanding player, running for 109 yards. His passing wasn't so precise, but good enough.
I can only honestly think of one bad pass by Sam Bradford, it was on the first drive and he didn't intentionally throw it away but it went about 10 yards out and about 10 yards in front of the intended receiver. Plus, both of Bradford's interceptions were not from bad passes, they were actually perfectly good passes but the receivers bobbled it and practically handed it to the Florida defense. I can't remember Tebow's first interception but his second one was a totally horrible pass.
This will ultimately lead to a defense debate because everyone knows the SEC is the best defensive conference in the country and the Big 12 is horrible. But here are some stats
Quarterback Rating Player School Rating
1. Sam Bradford Oklahoma 180.8
2. David Johnson Tulsa 178.7
3. Colt McCoy Texas 173.4
4. Tim Tebow Florida 172.4
5. Zac Robinson Oklahoma State 166.8
Passing Yards Player School Yards
1. Graham Harrell Texas Tech 5,111
2. Case Keenum Houston 5,020
3. Sam Bradford Oklahoma 4,720
4. Chase Daniel Missouri 4,335
5. Chase Clement Rice 4,119
Heisman voting
1. Sam Bradford QB OK
2. Colt McCoy QB TX
3. Tim Tebow QB FL
4. Graham Harell QB TT
5. Micheal Crabtree WR TT
But of course this will probably lead into a defensive debate. The one thing I can say is the Oklahoma led the nation in takeaways, and turnover margin. Plus, we had a handful of defensive all-americans (as a matter of fact you went against 2 last night), plus national defensive awards in the big 12. Which considering the high powered offenses should be impossible, but it happened, I think our defenses deserve a little more credit. Not too much though, they are horrible still.
Here is a excerpt in our newspaper about Tebow I did agree with.
Tebow is an interesting case. The hype for the talented Florida junior is over the top. I heard normally rational writers here call him "the greatest player in college football history."
Let's not get carried away.
Tebow is a very good player. He's a difference maker. He reminds me of another special quarterback who wore No. 15 way back when.
Tommy Frazier.
Tebow's numbers were good: 109 yards rushing, 231 passing, two touchdown passes, and countless runs and passes for key first downs in the clutch. A good night, to be sure.
But Tebow, like Frazier, is not about numbers. He's about intangibles and leadership and good decisions, not breathtaking plays. Tebow is about guts. He had a couple of bad interceptions in the first half, and OU bottled up his running. But he came out in the second half and made the plays to win.
Hope you liked that! Tebow was the best leader out there last night even though he did have one instance of taunting even if, like you mentioned, it was provoked.
Heres a random list of game changing moments (or potentially game changing moments) I can think of off the top of my head (excluding tds and interceptions) in no particular order.
1. Missed interference call... or even helmet to helmet hit on Oklahomas first drive, where Oklahomas receiver was laid out just before the ball got there on second down I believe.
2. Percy Harvin's huge run from their own one.
3. All of Tebows many studly runs to extend the game on third down and eat up clock.
4. Florida shutting down the run on the 2 yard line
5. No. 75 of Floridas 3 false start calls (almost 4)
Hope I didn't forget anything, im sure I did...
Hope I dont offend you with any comments here, thats not my intent, I just give my honest opinion just as I am sure you are.
QUOTE(Hermione17 @ Jan 9 2009, 05:26 PM) [snapback]554469[/snapback]
I wish we could play all the big 12 and USC and settle the bickering once and for all...in Florida's favor of course.
Go Gators!!
Dawn
Im sure Texas would love a shot at it, but I don't think they deserve after hardly pulling out against Ohio State. I think you're forgetting Utah, only undefeated team, they crushed Alabama in their bowl game, but I was expecting that, I always thought Alabama was overrated.
I agree with you that Bama was overrated. Don't tell my husband that he's a bama fan LOL I think Florida Vs. Utah would be the game to see! Both teams are a lot alike. And they should be. Utah was Urban Myers team before he came to Fla. That would be exciting.
Tebow really is a great player and a good person on and off the field. Everyone has a moment of weakness and in the championship game, emotions are especially high for everyone. I think the game went pretty well as far as rudeness goes. Usually you expect a fight or two, a bit of shoving and what not. But none of that went on (As far as I could tell).
Dawn
Tebow really is a great player and a good person on and off the field. Everyone has a moment of weakness and in the championship game, emotions are especially high for everyone. I think the game went pretty well as far as rudeness goes. Usually you expect a fight or two, a bit of shoving and what not. But none of that went on (As far as I could tell).
Dawn
I must help and support Dawn in her last post (:
I watched that game from beginning to end and well Oklahoma Sooners were powned !
I must say we have a pretty awesome QB(:
Got Tebow? No but we do Haha!
GATORS! <3
I watched that game from beginning to end and well Oklahoma Sooners were powned !
I must say we have a pretty awesome QB(:
Got Tebow? No but we do
Haha!
LOl Nicky, Did you see sports center the next day by any chance? They were showing "Tebowisms" at the bottom of the screen. They were hilarious!! The Sooners were held to their lowest scoring game yet and in my opinion the Gators seemed like they wanted it more and took control.
Gators
Gators
A couple of things:
1) Dorthy... you're a NASCAR fan?! Did that happen while living in my neck of the woods? My hubby is a NASCAR fan and he grew up in MN. Even though I'm from NC, I still don't understand that particular sport. Hubby tries to explain the nuances, but I'll just stick to my ACC basketball.
speaking of which...
2) My #4 Demon Deacons beat #3 UNC! Whoo Hoo! Go Deacs!
Kathleen
1) Dorthy... you're a NASCAR fan?! Did that happen while living in my neck of the woods?
My hubby is a NASCAR fan and he grew up in MN. Even though I'm from NC, I still don't understand that particular sport. Hubby tries to explain the nuances, but I'll just stick to my ACC basketball.speaking of which...
2) My #4 Demon Deacons beat #3 UNC! Whoo Hoo!
Go Deacs! Kathleen
Great news for Husker fans!!! Our best defensive player is coming back! Ndamukong Suh announced yesterday he would, in fact, be returning for his senior season. Suh was a defensive tackle (a nose guard more specifically), and he led our defense in tackles, tackles for loss, sacks, interceptions, and I think defensive tds but im not sure on that one. Had he gone to the draft this year he was expected to go in the late first round. If all goes well, the NFL advisors are already projecting him as top 10 next year. Not only was Suh a great defensive player, but he contributed on special teams and offense. I believe he had two blocked field goals this year (including one in out bowl game against Clemson). On offense, he played fullback in goal line situations, during the Kansas game (I was at this game) he caught a td pass from the fullback spot. He had two defensive tds, both on interceptions. He was second team all big 12, but I think he was robbed, along with the rest of Husker nation.
On a sad note, for me as a Colts fan, Tony Dungy stepped down to spend more time with his family. Tony Dungy coached the Colts to a Superbowl victory over the Bears in 2007, becoming the first African American coach to win the Superbowl! As a coach, he also set the record for most consecutive playoff appearances. He deserves nothing but the best! He was a great person off the field as well, he started a mentoring program called Mentors for Life, and he supported several programs designed to keep kids safe.
On a sad note, for me as a Colts fan, Tony Dungy stepped down to spend more time with his family. Tony Dungy coached the Colts to a Superbowl victory over the Bears in 2007, becoming the first African American coach to win the Superbowl! As a coach, he also set the record for most consecutive playoff appearances. He deserves nothing but the best! He was a great person off the field as well, he started a mentoring program called Mentors for Life, and he supported several programs designed to keep kids safe.
I've always liked Tony Dungy. He was at MN when I lived up there and has always been a class act. He's had some tragedy in recent years, so I hope this decision will help in his healing.
I just found out my Wake Forest Demon Deacons are #1 in the NCAA men's basketball AP poll.
I can't remember the last time we were ranked this high, and I certainly hope we can keep up the momentum! Seems I remember a time when we were ranked pretty high and then just went into a tailspin!
I can't remember the last time we were ranked this high, and I certainly hope we can keep up the momentum! Seems I remember a time when we were ranked pretty high and then just went into a tailspin!
Man, my team just dropped another close. 1 point. We have dropped 3 OT games and two close ones that didn't go into OT like tonight.
We had a great start, especially considering one of our starters was sick and couldn't play, but they closed on us. We were down by two at half. We had the first two buckets of the half to take a 2 point lead. Towards the end we were down by 5, I hit a long 2 and my friend hit a block shot to bring it within one. I stole the ball on the press and passed it to my teammate who missed a wide open block shot. I stole the ball yet again, and drew a foul and went to the line to shoot 1 and 1. I wasn't nervous, Im used to situations like this, but one of my teammates kept screaming even while I was shooting the freethrow to tie us up with 15 seconds left, as I was shooting I thought shutup please... airball (my coach said they attribute that to me not going out the entire game lol). It was my only missed shot that game, and my only air balled free throw ever, plus im a high percentage free throw shooter. The other team threw it away on the other end of the court. I took the ball up to half court and passed to a post with like 6 secs left on the clock and she gunned it up there, had she not I would have had a rebound at the block. I reached back to grab the rebound but it was slammed so hard of the glass it slipped out of my hand and a scramble for the ball ensued. Game over.
I am so sick of losing close games, if only I made that free throw, if only my teammate (incidentally the one yelling on my free throw) hadn't shot 20+ junk shots, if our point guard hadn't been in foul trouble, and if my teammate had made that shot from the block we would have won.
We had a great start, especially considering one of our starters was sick and couldn't play, but they closed on us. We were down by two at half. We had the first two buckets of the half to take a 2 point lead. Towards the end we were down by 5, I hit a long 2 and my friend hit a block shot to bring it within one. I stole the ball on the press and passed it to my teammate who missed a wide open block shot. I stole the ball yet again, and drew a foul and went to the line to shoot 1 and 1. I wasn't nervous, Im used to situations like this, but one of my teammates kept screaming even while I was shooting the freethrow to tie us up with 15 seconds left, as I was shooting I thought shutup please... airball (my coach said they attribute that to me not going out the entire game lol). It was my only missed shot that game, and my only air balled free throw ever, plus im a high percentage free throw shooter. The other team threw it away on the other end of the court. I took the ball up to half court and passed to a post with like 6 secs left on the clock and she gunned it up there, had she not I would have had a rebound at the block. I reached back to grab the rebound but it was slammed so hard of the glass it slipped out of my hand and a scramble for the ball ensued. Game over.
I am so sick of losing close games, if only I made that free throw, if only my teammate (incidentally the one yelling on my free throw) hadn't shot 20+ junk shots, if our point guard hadn't been in foul trouble, and if my teammate had made that shot from the block we would have won.
Who all heard about Micheal Phelps smoking pot? A picture came out in a London newspaper and he is losing a bunch of endorsements. There is a chance he might be unable to compete in the next Summer Olympics. I am so depressed by it, he was like one of my heroes.
At this point with all the publicity over Michael's photo, a person would need to be in a cave to have missed the photo.
Sigh. It must be very hard to be on such a high pedestal for all the world to see, and then fall and be seen as a normal human being. He made a mistake. Perhaps it's not the first time he's smoked pot, but he'll pay a much higher price for his indulgence than the average person.
Should he lose his endorsements? Yes. Should he go to jail? Hardly. Even the president admitted to smoking pot and look where it got him!
Kathleen, yes, I am a NASCAR fan. Yes, it began when I got stationed at Naval Station Annapolis in Maryland back around 1990. I've been a fan ever since. Admittedly, I do get frustrated that the sport takes up nearly every weekend for ten months, though. Sundays? What Sundays?!
Sigh. It must be very hard to be on such a high pedestal for all the world to see, and then fall and be seen as a normal human being. He made a mistake. Perhaps it's not the first time he's smoked pot, but he'll pay a much higher price for his indulgence than the average person.
Should he lose his endorsements? Yes. Should he go to jail? Hardly. Even the president admitted to smoking pot and look where it got him!
Kathleen, yes, I am a NASCAR fan. Yes, it began when I got stationed at Naval Station Annapolis in Maryland back around 1990. I've been a fan ever since. Admittedly, I do get frustrated that the sport takes up nearly every weekend for ten months, though. Sundays? What Sundays?!
Whether or not Michael Phelps made a mistake is a debate all in itself. He fully knew what he was doing when he was doing it. But, honestly, he shouldn't be punished by being banned from the next Olympics. Sure, the games endorse good role models for kids and Michael may not be the best role model today. But the next summer Olympics are in four years and it is a given that he will have grown and matured by then. The topic should be evaluated and the decision should be made closer to the next Olympics.
It's just sad that everyone made such a fuss over this because he's an athlete. No one threatened charges and it wasn't a big deal when pictures were taken of Kristen Stewart (Twilight) smoking marijuana. As stated by Sirren, as well, why wasn't it important when Presidents have admitted to smoking pot?
Honestly, I'm surprised it's been made into such a big deal that Michael Phelps smokes pot. He's not the only celebrity and he won't be the last to be caught using illegal drugs.
It's just sad that everyone made such a fuss over this because he's an athlete. No one threatened charges and it wasn't a big deal when pictures were taken of Kristen Stewart (Twilight) smoking marijuana. As stated by Sirren, as well, why wasn't it important when Presidents have admitted to smoking pot?
Honestly, I'm surprised it's been made into such a big deal that Michael Phelps smokes pot. He's not the only celebrity and he won't be the last to be caught using illegal drugs.
You know, I look at Michael Phelps and I kind of feel sorry for him. Here's a guy that's been working practically non-stop since he was 11 years old towards his Olympic dreams, swimming 7 days a week, thousands of yards a day. He's never really had a chance to be a teenager or young adult. His life has revolved around swimming and competitions which leaves little room for anything else. He's been expected by his coach, his fans, his sponsors, and himself to be a certain way and present a certain face to society. Considering his young age, he's had to carry a heavy load. And just when he's finally achieved his goals, has a moment to relax and not have the stress of swimming and everything that goes along with it, he gets caught in a moment of craziness. It could happen to anyone. I commend him for being as strong as he has been, and I don't fault him for the slip.
At least he admitted his mistake and didn't try to hide it or lie about it. He could have tried to claim that the pic was a fake/tampered, but he didn't. That says a lot about him. He owned up to it. And he's accepting the suspension and whatever else with grace.
I still support him and think he's a great guy and athlete. Any of the sponsors that drop him, well, that's their loss.
At least he admitted his mistake and didn't try to hide it or lie about it. He could have tried to claim that the pic was a fake/tampered, but he didn't. That says a lot about him. He owned up to it. And he's accepting the suspension and whatever else with grace.
I still support him and think he's a great guy and athlete. Any of the sponsors that drop him, well, that's their loss.
I suppose I should have qualified my stance that Michael should lose sponsors: perhaps not all, but any that provide a "wholesome" example. True, I don't think what he did was really wrong (he was at a college party, what else do most parties contain?!), but he is a roll model. He may not wish to be a roll model, he may not wish to act like a roll model, but he is a roll model. By accepting the money for promoting the various products, he is placing himself as an example of what the products stand for. That is what advertisement is all about. He took the money, he acted as spokesperson for said companies, and he got photographed with his face in a bong. I cannot see the two sides being a good fit.
Should he be suspended from practice? He should be held accountable to the very same standards as the rest of the athletes. No softer, no harsher: the same standards. If another member would have been suspended for the same conditions, so should Michael.
I, too, applaud him for owning up to it right from the start.
Should he be suspended from practice? He should be held accountable to the very same standards as the rest of the athletes. No softer, no harsher: the same standards. If another member would have been suspended for the same conditions, so should Michael.
I, too, applaud him for owning up to it right from the start.
As long as Michael Phelps doesn't test positive for any illegal drugs when his next competition comes around, then by all means let him compete.
If a sponsor wants to pull its funding, then that should be up to the sponsor and not dictated by anyone else.
If the current president of the United States smoked pot and did cocaine (and whatever else) in his youth and it didn't deter the majority of the country from voting for him, it didn't cause the media to have a field day and it hasn't deterred the world from thinking he is just peachy then smoking pot shouldn't taint Michael Phelps one little bit.
I'm pretty sure that if the media can let this drop (which I doubt they will) then this will be forgotten by 2012. If there is a controversy then the media will exploit it to sell their "news". Let's all do our part to support Michael Phelps, given he has earned that support, and ignore the news mongers.
If a sponsor wants to pull its funding, then that should be up to the sponsor and not dictated by anyone else.
If the current president of the United States smoked pot and did cocaine (and whatever else) in his youth and it didn't deter the majority of the country from voting for him, it didn't cause the media to have a field day and it hasn't deterred the world from thinking he is just peachy then smoking pot shouldn't taint Michael Phelps one little bit.
I'm pretty sure that if the media can let this drop (which I doubt they will) then this will be forgotten by 2012. If there is a controversy then the media will exploit it to sell their "news". Let's all do our part to support Michael Phelps, given he has earned that support, and ignore the news mongers.
So, here we are again. Alex Rodriguez has admitted to the use of illegal steroids...after being positive on a baseball commission test from 2003. This man is paid millions of dollars a year to perform, and he cheated.
Sammy Souza is included in this list, albeit he is currently undergoing legal action on perjury for his denials.
Where do we as fans draw the lines? Is it acceptable for major athletes to use steroids for performance enhancement? Is not not acceptable? And then, if acceptable it is, can college kids or even the high school football star use them?
Do we need clean sports or should anyone do whatever they choose to perform to the best of their ability, even if it is cheating?
Driving down the same road, do players belong in the Hall of Fame if there is conclusive evidence they were users? What of players already in the Hall of Fame that may be proven to have been users?
Where do we draw the line?
Sammy Souza is included in this list, albeit he is currently undergoing legal action on perjury for his denials.
Where do we as fans draw the lines? Is it acceptable for major athletes to use steroids for performance enhancement? Is not not acceptable? And then, if acceptable it is, can college kids or even the high school football star use them?
Do we need clean sports or should anyone do whatever they choose to perform to the best of their ability, even if it is cheating?
Driving down the same road, do players belong in the Hall of Fame if there is conclusive evidence they were users? What of players already in the Hall of Fame that may be proven to have been users?
Where do we draw the line?
I don't justify the use of drugs in sports for any reason at all. It is despisable and unacceptable. Being an athlete is about trying to do your best and overcome your own personal limits, in a natural way. Taking drugs is so easy that everyone can do it and then, take pride on being fast or strong. Athletes are supposed to be role-models because they have both the physical and the mental strength to fight for their goals. That's why not everyone can be an athlete. If everyone starts using drugs, then, what's the point anymore?
Maybe I'm being too romantic, but I still believe in the spirit ancient Greeks believed. Their athletes were treated like semi-gods and the athletes themselves had a clean body and soul. One of the mottos they used was "healthy spirit in a healthy body".
It's sad how nowadays everything is about money and how to make more. And it gets even sadder because young athletes, people who are on their way of becoming great in a sport, believe that they have to do drugs in order to succeed. And it's true. When Rodriguez, or whoever, uses drugs, you start to believe that you have to do it too. Because, how else will you stand out? You can't compete to one who uses chemicals, it's a law of nature.
That's one of the reasons why I am not into sports. Fair play is no longer existant, thus, I find no pleasure in supporting someone who might be using drugs. That's not the role-model I need.
Maybe I'm being too romantic, but I still believe in the spirit ancient Greeks believed. Their athletes were treated like semi-gods and the athletes themselves had a clean body and soul. One of the mottos they used was "healthy spirit in a healthy body".
It's sad how nowadays everything is about money and how to make more. And it gets even sadder because young athletes, people who are on their way of becoming great in a sport, believe that they have to do drugs in order to succeed. And it's true. When Rodriguez, or whoever, uses drugs, you start to believe that you have to do it too. Because, how else will you stand out? You can't compete to one who uses chemicals, it's a law of nature.
That's one of the reasons why I am not into sports. Fair play is no longer existant, thus, I find no pleasure in supporting someone who might be using drugs. That's not the role-model I need.
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.